Influence of urothelial or suburothelial cholinergic receptors on bladder reflexes in chronic spinal cord injured cats.

PubMed

Ungerer, Timothy D; Kim, Kyoungeun A; Daugherty, Stephanie L; Roppolo, James R; Tai, Changfeng; de Groat, William C

2016-11-01

The effects of intravesical administration of a muscarinic receptor agonist (oxotremorine-M, OXO-M) and antagonist (atropine methyl nitrate, AMN) and of a nicotinic receptor agonist (nicotine) and antagonist (hexamethonium, C 6 ) on reflex bladder activity were investigated in conscious female chronic spinal cord injured (SCI) cats using cystometry. OXO-M (50μM) decreased bladder capacity (BC) for triggering micturition contractions, increased maximal micturition pressure (MMP), increased frequency and area under the curve of pre-micturition contractions (PMC-AUC). Nicotine (250μM) decreased BC, increased MMP, but did not alter PMC-AUC. The effects of OXO-M on BC and PMC-AUC were suppressed by intravesical administration of AMN (50-100μM), and the effects of nicotine were blocked by hexamethonium (1mM). Antagonists infused intravesically alone did not alter reflex bladder activity. However, AMN (0.2mg/kg, subcutaneously) decreased PMC-AUC. 8-OH-DPAT (0.5mg/kg, s.c.), a 5-HT 1A receptor agonist, suppressed the OXO-M-induced decrease in BC but not the enhancement of PMC-AUC. These results indicate that activation of cholinergic receptors located near the lumenal surface of the bladder modulates two types of reflex bladder activity (i.e., micturition and pre-micturition contractions). The effects may be mediated by activation of receptors on suburothelial afferent nerves or receptors on urothelial cells which release transmitters that can in turn alter afferent excitability. The selective action of nicotine on BC, while OXO-M affects both BC and PMC-AUC, suggests that micturition reflexes and PMCs are activated by different populations of afferent nerves. The selective suppression of the OXO-M effect on BC by 8-OH-DPAT without altering the effect on PMCs supports this hypothesis. The failure of intravesical administration of either AMN or hexamethonium alone to alter bladder activity indicates that cholinergic receptors located near the lumenal surface do not tonically regulate bladder reflex mechanisms in the SCI cat. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Construction and Testing of Broadband High Impedance Ground Planes (HIGPS) for Surface Mount Antennas

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-01

Conductor PMC: Perfect Magnetic Conductor RF: Radio Frequency RH: Right-handed SNG : Single Negative TACAN: Tactical Air Navigation UAV: Unmanned Aerial...negative ( SNG ) and double-negative (DNG) materials, and their fascinating properties have driven the interest in MTMs (Engheta and Ziolkowski, 2006

Europe PMC: a full-text literature database for the life sciences and platform for innovation

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

This article describes recent developments of Europe PMC (http://europepmc.org), the leading database for life science literature. Formerly known as UKPMC, the service was rebranded in November 2012 as Europe PMC to reflect the scope of the funding agencies that support it. Several new developments have enriched Europe PMC considerably since then. Europe PMC now offers RESTful web services to access both articles and grants, powerful search tools such as citation-count sort order and data citation features, a service to add publications to your ORCID, a variety of export formats, and an External Links service that enables any related resource to be linked from Europe PMC content. PMID:25378340

Is perceived motor competence a constraint in children's action planning?

PubMed

Gabbard, Carl; Caçola, Priscila; Cordova, Alberto

2009-06-01

A form of action representation of developmental interest is reach estimation-the perceptual and cognitive judgment of whether an object is within or out of reach. A common observation among children is overestimation, which, speculatively, has been linked to perceived motor competence (PMC). The authors examined the PMC effect on reachability among 7-, 9-, and 11-year-old children. The authors predicted that with higher PMC, participants would display greater overestimation and that this outcome would show a developmental trend with younger children displaying greater overestimation complementing higher PMC scores. Results revealed no age differences in total error for reach, and all age groups overestimated. Regarding PMC, the 7-year-old childrens' scores were significantly higher than those of their older counterparts. However, relation analyses revealed no support for the idea that PMC was significantly associated with reachability. The findings suggested that a general measure of PMC is not a good predictor of childrens' action planning through reach estimation. Furthermore, if PMC in some form is a psychological constraint, future studies should be tied to context-specific measures of perceived abilities in relation to the specificity of the task.

The PMC-Turbo Balloon Mission to Study Gravity Waves and Turbulence through High-Resolution Imaging of Polar Mesospheric Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, B. P.; Kjellstrand, B.; Jones, G.; Reimuller, J. D.; Fritts, D. C.; Miller, A.; Geach, C.; Limon, M.; Hanany, S.; Kaifler, B.; Wang, L.; Taylor, M. J.

2017-12-01

PMC-Turbo is a NASA long-duration, high-altitude balloon mission that will deploy 7 high-resolution cameras to image polar mesospheric clouds (PMC) and measure gravity wave breakdown and turbulence. The mission has been enhanced by the addition of the DLR Balloon Lidar Experiment (BOLIDE) and an OH imager from Utah State University. This instrument suite will provide high horizontal and vertical resolution of the wave-modified PMC structure along a several thousand kilometer flight track. We have requested a flight from Kiruna, Sweden to Canada in June 2017 or McMurdo Base, Antarctica in Dec 2017. Three of the PMC camera systems were deployed on an aircraft and two tomographic ground sites for the High Level campaign in Canada in June/July 2017. On several nights the cameras observed PMC's with strong gravity wave breaking signatures. One PMC camera will piggyback on the Super Tiger mission scheduled to be launched in Dec 2017 from McMurdo, so we will obtain PMC images and wave/turbulence data from both the northern and southern hemispheres.

[Comparison of machinability of two types of dental machinable ceramic].

PubMed

Fu, Qiang; Zhao, Yunfeng; Li, Yong; Fan, Xinping; Li, Yan; Lin, Xuefeng

2002-11-01

In terms of the problems of now available dental machinable ceramics, a new type of calcium-mica glass-ceramic, PMC-I ceramic, was developed, and its machinability was compared with that of Vita MKII quantitatively. Moreover, the relationship between the strength and the machinability of PMC-I ceramic was studied. Samples of PMC-I ceramic were divided into four groups according to their nucleation procedures. 600-seconds drilling tests were conducted with high-speed steel tools (Phi = 2.3 mm) to measure the drilling depths of Vita MKII ceramic and PMC-I ceramic, while constant drilling speed of 600 rpm and constant axial load of 39.2 N were used. And the 3-point bending strength of the four groups of PMC-I ceramic were recorded. Drilling depth of Vita MKII was 0.71 mm, while the depths of the four groups of PMC-I ceramic were 0.88 mm, 1.40 mm, 0.40 mm and 0.90 mm, respectively. Group B of PMC-I ceramic showed the largest depth of 1.40 mm and was statistically different from other groups and Vita MKII. And the strength of the four groups of PMC-I ceramic were 137.7, 210.2, 118.0 and 106.0 MPa, respectively. The machinability of the new developed dental machinable ceramic of PMC-I could meet the need of the clinic.

Mucoadhesive hydrogel microparticles based on poly (methacrylic acid-vinyl pyrrolidone)-chitosan for oral drug delivery.

PubMed

Sajeesh, S; Sharma, Chandra P

2011-05-01

The study was aimed at the evaluation of N-vinyl pyrrolidone (NVP) incorporated polymethacrylic acid-chitosan microparticles for oral drug delivery applications. Poly (methacrylic acid)-chitosan (PMC) and poly(methacrylic acid-vinyl pyrrolidone)-chitosan (PMVC) microparticles were prepared by an ionic-gelation method. Mucoadhesion behaviour of these particles was evaluated by ex-vivo adhesion method using freshly excised rat intestinal tissue. Cytotoxicity and absorption enhancing property of PMC and PMVC particles were evaluated on Caco 2 cell monolayers. Protease enzyme inhibition capability and insulin loading/release properties of these hydrogel particles was evaluated under in vitro experimental conditions. Addition of NVP units enhanced the mucoadhesion behavior of PMC particles on isolated rat intestinal tissue. Both PMC and PMVC particles were found non-toxic on Caco 2 cell monolayers and PMC particles was more effective in improving paracellular transport of fluorescent dextran across Caco 2 cell monolayers as compared to PMVC particles. However, protease inhibition efficacy of PMC particles was not significantly affected with NVP addition. NVP incorporation improved the insulin release properties of PMC microparticles at acidic pH. Hydrophilic modification seems to be an interesting approach in improving mucoadhesion capability of PMC microparticles.

The exonuclease activity of hPMC2 is required for transcriptional regulation of the QR gene and repair of estrogen-induced abasic sites.

PubMed

Krishnamurthy, N; Ngam, C R; Berdis, A J; Montano, M M

2011-11-24

We have previously reported that the expression of antioxidative stress enzymes is upregulated by trans-hydroxytamoxifen (TOT) in breast epithelial cell lines providing protection against estrogen-induced DNA damage. This regulation involves Estrogen Receptor β (ERβ) recruitment to the Electrophile Response Element (EpRE) and a novel protein, human homolog of Xenopus gene which Prevents Mitotic Catastrophe (hPMC2). We have also demonstrated that ERβ and hPMC2 are required for TOT-dependent recruitment of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) and Topoisomerase IIβ (Topo IIβ) to the EpRE. Sequence analysis reveals that the C-terminus of hPMC2 encodes a putative exonuclease domain. Using in vitro kinetic assays, we found that hPMC2 is a 3'-5' non-processive exonuclease that degrades both single-stranded and double-stranded substrates. Mutation of two conserved carboxylate residues drastically reduced the exonuclease activity of hPMC2, indicating the relative importance of the catalytic residues. Western blot analysis of breast cancer cell lines for Quinone Reductase (QR) levels revealed that the intrinsic exonuclease activity of hPMC2 was required for TOT-induced QR upregulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays also indicated that hPMC2 was involved in the formation of strand breaks observed with TOT treatment and is specific for the EpRE-containing region of the QR gene. We also determined that the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) is involved in the specificity of hPMC2 for the EpRE. In addition, we determined that the catalytic activity of hPMC2 is required for repair of abasic sites that result from estrogen-induced DNA damage. Thus, our study provides a mechanistic basis for transcriptional regulation by hPMC2 and provides novel insights into its role in cancer prevention.

The exonuclease activity of hPMC2 is required for transcriptional regulation of the QR gene and repair of estrogen-induced abasic sites

PubMed Central

Krishnamurthy, Nirmala; Ngam, Caitlyn R.; Berdis, Anthony J.; Montano, Monica M.

2011-01-01

We have previously reported that the expression of antioxidative stress enzymes are upregulated by trans-hydroxytamoxifen (TOT) in breast epithelial cell lines providing protection against estrogen-induced DNA damage. This regulation involves Estrogen Receptor beta (ERβ) recruitment to the Electrophile Response Element (EpRE) and a novel protein, human homolog of Xenopus gene which Prevents Mitotic Catastrophe (hPMC2). We have also demonstrated that ERβ and hPMC2 are required for TOT-dependent recruitment of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) and Topoisomerase IIβ (Topo IIβ) to the EpRE. Sequence analysis reveals that the C-terminus of hPMC2 encodes a putative exonuclease domain. Using in vitro kinetic assays, we found that hPMC2 is a 3'–5' non-processive exonuclease that degrades both single stranded and double stranded substrates. Mutation of two conserved carboxylate residues drastically reduced the exonuclease activity of hPMC2 indicating the relative importance of the catalytic residues. Western blot analysis of breast cancer cell lines for Quinone Reductase (QR) levels revealed that the intrinsic exonuclease activity of hPMC2 was required for TOT-induced QR upregulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays (ChIP) also indicated that hPMC2 was involved in the formation of strand breaks observed with TOT-treatment and is specific for the EpRE-containing region of the QR gene. We also determined that the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) is involved in the specificity of hPMC2 for the EpRE. In addition, we determined that the catalytic activity of hPMC2 is required for repair of abasic sites that result from estrogen-induced DNA damage. Thus our study provides a mechanistic basis for transcriptional regulation by hPMC2 and provides novel insights into its role in cancer prevention. PMID:21602889

Evaluation of prospective motion correction of high-resolution 3D-T2-FLAIR acquisitions in epilepsy patients.

PubMed

Vos, Sjoerd B; Micallef, Caroline; Barkhof, Frederik; Hill, Andrea; Winston, Gavin P; Ourselin, Sebastien; Duncan, John S

2018-03-02

T2-FLAIR is the single most sensitive MRI contrast to detect lesions underlying focal epilepsies but 3D sequences used to obtain isotropic high-resolution images are susceptible to motion artefacts. Prospective motion correction (PMC) - demonstrated to improve 3D-T1 image quality in a pediatric population - was applied to high-resolution 3D-T2-FLAIR scans in adult epilepsy patients to evaluate its clinical benefit. Coronal 3D-T2-FLAIR scans were acquired with a 1mm isotropic resolution on a 3T MRI scanner. Two expert neuroradiologists reviewed 40 scans without PMC and 40 with navigator-based PMC. Visual assessment addressed six criteria of image quality (resolution, SNR, WM-GM contrast, intensity homogeneity, lesion conspicuity, diagnostic confidence) on a seven-point Likert scale (from non-diagnostic to outstanding). SNR was also objectively quantified within the white matter. PMC scans had near-identical scores on the criteria of image quality to non-PMC scans, with the notable exception that intensity homogeneity was generally worse. Using PMC, the percentage of scans with bad image quality was substantially lower than without PMC (3.25% vs. 12.5%) on the other five criteria. Quantitative SNR estimates revealed that PMC and non-PMC had no significant difference in SNR (P=0.07). Application of prospective motion correction to 3D-T2-FLAIR sequences decreased the percentage of low-quality scans, reducing the number of scans that need to be repeated to obtain clinically useful data. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.

Resistance to Plum Pox Virus (PPV) in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is associated with down-regulation of two MATHd genes.

PubMed

Zuriaga, Elena; Romero, Carlos; Blanca, Jose Miguel; Badenes, Maria Luisa

2018-01-27

Plum pox virus (PPV), causing Sharka disease, is one of the main limiting factors for Prunus production worldwide. In apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) the major PPV resistance locus (PPVres), comprising ~ 196 kb, has been mapped to the upper part of linkage group 1. Within the PPVres, 68 genomic variants linked in coupling to PPV resistance were identified within 23 predicted transcripts according to peach genome annotation. Taking into account the predicted functions inferred from sequence homology, some members of a cluster of meprin and TRAF-C homology domain (MATHd)-containing genes were pointed as PPV resistance candidate genes. Here, we have characterized the global apricot transcriptome response to PPV-D infection identifying six PPVres locus genes (ParP-1 to ParP-6) differentially expressed in resistant/susceptible cultivars. Two of them (ParP-3 and ParP-4), that encode MATHd proteins, appear clearly down-regulated in resistant cultivars, as confirmed by qRT-PCR. Concurrently, variant calling was performed using whole-genome sequencing data of 24 apricot cultivars (10 PPV-resistant and 14 PPV-susceptible) and 2 wild relatives (PPV-susceptible). ParP-3 and ParP-4, named as Prunus armeniaca PPVres MATHd-containing genes (ParPMC), are the only 2 genes having allelic variants linked in coupling to PPV resistance. ParPMC1 has 1 nsSNP, while ParPMC2 has 15 variants, including a 5-bp deletion within the second exon that produces a frameshift mutation. ParPMC1 and ParPMC2 are adjacent and highly homologous (87.5% identity) suggesting they are paralogs originated from a tandem duplication. Cultivars carrying the ParPMC2 resistant (mutated) allele show lack of expression in both ParPMC2 and especially ParPMC1. Accordingly, we hypothesize that ParPMC2 is a pseudogene that mediates down-regulation of its functional paralog ParPMC1 by silencing. As a whole, results strongly support ParPMC1 and/or ParPMC2 as host susceptibility genes required for PPV infection which silencing may confer PPV resistance trait. This finding may facilitate resistance breeding by marker-assisted selection and pave the way for gene edition approaches in Prunus.

Role of the C-terminus in the activity, conformation, and stability of interleukin-6.

PubMed Central

Ward, L. D.; Hammacher, A.; Zhang, J. G.; Weinstock, J.; Yasukawa, K.; Morton, C. J.; Norton, R. S.; Simpson, R. J.

1993-01-01

Two murine interleukin-6 (mIL-6) variants were constructed using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), one lacking the last five residues (183-187) at the C-terminus (pMC5) and another with the last five residues of mIL-6 substituted by the corresponding residues of human IL-6 (pMC5H). The growth stimulatory activity of pMC5 on the mouse hybridoma cell line 7TD1 was < 0.05% of mIL-6, whereas pMC5H and mIL-6 were equipotent. The loss of biological activity of pMC5 correlated with its negligible receptor binding affinity on 7TD1 cells, while the binding of pMC5H was comparable to that of mIL-6. Both pMC5 and pMC5H, like mIL-6, failed to interact with recombinant soluble human IL-6 receptor when assayed by surface plasmon resonance-based biosensor analysis. These studies suggest that the C-terminal seven amino acids of human IL-6, alone, do not define species specificity for receptor binding. A variety of biophysical techniques, as well as the binding of a conformational-specific monoclonal antibody, indicated that the global fold of the mIL-6 variants was similar to that of mIL-6, although small changes in the NMR spectra, particularly for pMC5, were observed. Some of these changes involved residues widely separated in the primary structure. For instance, interactions involving Tyr-22 were influenced by the C-terminal amino acids suggesting that the N- and C-termini of mIL-6 are in close proximity. Equilibrium unfolding experiments indicated that pMC5 was 0.8 kcal/mol less stable than mIL-6, whereas pMC5H was 1.4 kcal/mol more stable. These studies emphasize the structural importance of the C-terminal amino acids of IL-6 and suggest that truncation or mutation of this region could lead to small but significant alterations in other regions of the molecule. PMID:8401231

Limited plastic potential of the left ventral premotor cortex in speech articulation: evidence from intraoperative awake mapping in glioma patients.

PubMed

van Geemen, Kim; Herbet, Guillaume; Moritz-Gasser, Sylvie; Duffau, Hugues

2014-04-01

Despite previous lesional and functional neuroimaging studies, the actual role of the left ventral premotor cortex (vPMC), i.e., the lateral part of the precentral gyrus, is still poorly known. We report a series of eight patients with a glioma involving the left vPMC, who underwent awake surgery with intraoperative cortical and subcortical language mapping. The function of the vPMC, its subcortical connections, and its reorganization potential are investigated in the light of surgical findings and language outcome after resection. Electrostimulation of both the vPMC and subcortical white matter tract underneath the vPMC, that is, the anterior segment of the lateral part of the superior longitudinal fascicle (SLF), induced speech production disturbances with anarthria in all cases. Moreover, although some degrees of redistribution of the vPMC have been found in four patients, allowing its partial resection with no permanent speech disorders, this area was nonetheless still detected more medially in the precentral gyrus in the eight patients, despite its invasion by the glioma. Moreover, a direct connection of the vPMC with the SLF was preserved in all cases. Our original data suggest that the vPMC plays a crucial role in the speech production network and that its plastic potential is limited. We propose that this limitation is due to an anatomical constraint, namely the necessity for the left vPMC to remain connected to the lateral SLF. Beyond fundamental implications, such knowledge may have clinical applications, especially in surgery for tumors involving this cortico-subcortical circuit. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effects of Coarse Particulate Matter on Emergency Hospital Admissions for Respiratory Diseases: A Time-Series Analysis in Hong Kong

PubMed Central

Qiu, Hong; Tian, Linwei; Wang, Xiaorong; Tse, Lap Ah; Tam, Wilson; Wong, Tze Wai

2012-01-01

Background: Many epidemiological studies have linked daily counts of hospital admissions to particulate matter (PM) with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM10) and ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5), but relatively few have investigated the relationship of hospital admissions with coarse PM (PMc; 2.5–10 μm aerodynamic diameter). Objectives: We conducted this study to estimate the health effects of PMc on emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in Hong Kong after controlling for PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants. Methods: We conducted a time-series analysis of associations between daily emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in Hong Kong from January 2000 to December 2005 and daily PM2.5 and PMc concentrations. We estimated PMc concentrations by subtracting PM2.5 from PM10 measurements. We used generalized additive models to examine the relationship between PMc (single- and multiday lagged exposures) and hospital admissions adjusted for time trends, weather conditions, influenza outbreaks, PM2.5, and gaseous pollutants (nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone). Results: A 10.9-μg/m3 (interquartile range) increase in the 4-day moving average concentration of PMc was associated with a 1.94% (95% confidence interval: 1.24%, 2.64%) increase in emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases that was attenuated but still significant after controlling for PM2.5. Adjusting for gaseous pollutants and altering models assumptions had little influence on PMc effect estimates. Conclusion: PMc was associated with emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in Hong Kong independent of PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants. Further research is needed to evaluate health effects of different components of PMc. PMID:22266709

Spectral Measurements of PMCs from SBUV/2 Instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeLand, Matthew T.; Shettle, Eric P.; Thomas, Gary E.; Olivero, John J.

2006-01-01

The SBUV/2 (Solar Backscattered Ultraviolet, model 2) instrument is designed to monitor ozone stratospheric profile and total column ozone using measurements of the Earth's backscattered ultraviolet albedo. We have previously demonstrated that the normal radiance measurements from SBUV/2 instruments, which sample 12 discrete wavelengths between 252 and 340 nm during each scan, can be used to identify polar mesospheric clouds (PMCs). Some SBUV/2 instruments also periodically view the earth in continuous scan mode, covering the wavelength range 160-400 nm with 0.15 nm sampling. Analysis of these data show PMC occurrence rates similar to the normal discrete scan results, although the observation technique reduces the number of daily measurements by a factor of six. PMC observed by SBUV/2 instruments show a monotonic variation in the residual spectral albedo over the wavelength range 250 300 nm, with maximum enhancements of 10 15% at 250 nm. This result is consistent with microphysical model predictions from Jensen [1989. A numerical model of polar mesospheric cloud formation and evolution, Ph. D. Thesis, University of Colorado]. We find no evidence for a systematic localized increase in PMC residual albedo for wavelengths near 260 nm, in contrast to the recently reported results from the MSX UVISI instrument [Carbary J.F., et al., 2004. Evidence for bimodal particle distribution from the spectra of polar mesospheric clouds. Geophysics Research. Letters 31, L13108]. This result is observed for three different SBUV/2 instruments in both Northern and Southern Hemisphere data over a 13-year span. Our Mie scattering calculations show that the location and magnitude of the 260 nm hump feature is dependent upon the specific scattering angles appropriate to the MSX measurements. Although it explains the MSX spectrum, the bimodal size distribution proposed by Carbary et al. (2004), cannot explain the lack of scattering angle dependence of the SBUV/2 spectral shapes. The spectral signature of the SBUV/2 continuous scan PMC data is thus inconsistent with the bimodal particle size distribution suggested by Carbary et al. (2004).

Subspecialization in the human posterior medial cortex

PubMed Central

Bzdok, Danilo; Heeger, Adrian; Langner, Robert; Laird, Angela R.; Fox, Peter T.; Palomero-Gallagher, Nicola; Vogt, Brent A.; Zilles, Karl; Eickhoff, Simon B.

2014-01-01

The posterior medial cortex (PMC) is particularly poorly understood. Its neural activity changes have been related to highly disparate mental processes. We therefore investigated PMC properties with a data-driven exploratory approach. First, we subdivided the PMC by whole-brain coactivation profiles. Second, functional connectivity of the ensuing PMC regions was compared by task-constrained meta-analytic coactivation mapping (MACM) and task-unconstrained resting-state correlations (RSFC). Third, PMC regions were functionally described by forward/reverse functional inference. A precuneal cluster was mostly connected to the intraparietal sulcus, frontal eye fields, and right temporo-parietal junction; associated with attention and motor tasks. A ventral posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) cluster was mostly connected to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and middle left inferior parietal cortex (IPC); associated with facial appraisal and language tasks. A dorsal PCC cluster was mostly connected to the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, anterior/posterior IPC, posterior midcingulate cortex, and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex; associated with delay discounting. A cluster in the retrosplenial cortex was mostly connected to the anterior thalamus and hippocampus. Furthermore, all PMC clusters were congruently coupled with the default mode network according to task-constrained but not task-unconstrained connectivity. We thus identified distinct regions in the PMC and characterized their neural networks and functional implications. PMID:25462801

Platelet and leukocyte activation, atherosclerosis and inflammation in European and South Asian men.

PubMed

Dotsenko, O; Chaturvedi, N; Thom, S A McG; Wright, A R; Mayet, J; Shore, A; Schalkwijk, C; Hughes, A D

2007-10-01

Increased platelet activation occurs in ischemic heart disease (IHD), but increased platelet activation is also seen in cerebrovascular atherosclerosis and peripheral artery disease. It is not clear therefore whether platelet activation is an indicator of IHD or a marker of generalized atherosclerosis and inflammation. South Asian subjects are at high risk of IHD, but little is known regarding differences in platelet and leukocyte function between European and South Asian subjects. Fifty-four male subjects (age 49-79 years) had coronary artery calcification measured by multislice computed tomography (CT), aortic atherosclerosis assessed by measurement of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (aortic PWV), and femoral and carotid atherosclerosis measured by B-mode ultrasound. Platelet and leukocyte activation was assessed by flow cytometry of platelet-monocyte complexes (PMC), platelet expression of PAC-1 binding site and CD62P, and expression of L-selectin on leukocytes. Elevated circulating PMC correlated significantly with elevated aortic PWV and PMC were higher in subjects with femoral plaques. In contrast PMC did not differ by increasing coronary artery calcification category or presence of carotid plaques. Higher numbers of PMC were independently related to elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), higher aortic PWV, hypertension and smoking in a multivariate model. Markers of platelet and leukocyte activation did not differ significantly by ethnicity. Increased PMC are related to the extent of aortic and femoral atherosclerosis rather than coronary or carotid atherosclerosis. The association between elevated CRP and increased PMC suggests that inflammation in relation to generalized atherosclerosis may play an important role in PMC activation.

Degeneracy relations in QCD and the equivalence of two systematic all-orders methods for setting the renormalization scale

DOE PAGES

Bi, Huan -Yu; Wu, Xing -Gang; Ma, Yang; ...

2015-06-26

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) eliminates QCD renormalization scale-setting uncertainties using fundamental renormalization group methods. The resulting scale-fixed pQCD predictions are independent of the choice of renormalization scheme and show rapid convergence. The coefficients of the scale-fixed couplings are identical to the corresponding conformal series with zero β-function. Two all-orders methods for systematically implementing the PMC-scale setting procedure for existing high order calculations are discussed in this article. One implementation is based on the PMC-BLM correspondence (PMC-I); the other, more recent, method (PMC-II) uses the R δ-scheme, a systematic generalization of the minimal subtraction renormalization scheme. Both approaches satisfymore » all of the principles of the renormalization group and lead to scale-fixed and scheme-independent predictions at each finite order. In this work, we show that PMC-I and PMC-II scale-setting methods are in practice equivalent to each other. We illustrate this equivalence for the four-loop calculations of the annihilation ratio R e+e– and the Higgs partial width I'(H→bb¯). Both methods lead to the same resummed (‘conformal’) series up to all orders. The small scale differences between the two approaches are reduced as additional renormalization group {β i}-terms in the pQCD expansion are taken into account. In addition, we show that special degeneracy relations, which underly the equivalence of the two PMC approaches and the resulting conformal features of the pQCD series, are in fact general properties of non-Abelian gauge theory.« less

Chemical Characterization of Ambient Coarse Particulate Matter in Rural Areas of Arizona Impacted by Significant Population Growth

EPA Science Inventory

Characterization of PMc is critical to the understanding of recently observed adverse health effects (e.g., asthma, reduced cardiac variability, etc) from coarse particles in ambient air. PMc mass an (PMc, particles between PM2.5 and PM10) in a rural area of increasing populati...

Static Behavior of Chalcogenide Based Programmable Metallization Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajabi, Saba

Nonvolatile memory (NVM) technologies have been an integral part of electronic systems for the past 30 years. The ideal non-volatile memory have minimal physical size, energy usage, and cost while having maximal speed, capacity, retention time, and radiation hardness. A promising candidate for next-generation memory is ion-conducting bridging RAM which is referred to as programmable metallization cell (PMC), conductive bridge RAM (CBRAM), or electrochemical metallization memory (ECM), which is likely to surpass flash memory in all the ideal memory characteristics. A comprehensive physics-based model is needed to completely understand PMC operation and assist in design optimization. To advance the PMC modeling effort, this thesis presents a precise physical model parameterizing materials associated with both ion-rich and ion-poor layers of the PMC's solid electrolyte, so that captures the static electrical behavior of the PMC in both its low-resistance on-state (LRS) and high resistance off-state (HRS). The experimental data is measured from a chalcogenide glass PMC designed and manufactured at ASU. The static on- and off-state resistance of a PMC device composed of a layered (Ag-rich/Ag-poor) Ge30Se70 ChG film is characterized and modeled using three dimensional simulation code written in Silvaco Atlas finite element analysis software. Calibrating the model to experimental data enables the extraction of device parameters such as material bandgaps, workfunctions, density of states, carrier mobilities, dielectric constants, and affinities. The sensitivity of our modeled PMC to the variation of its prominent achieved material parameters is examined on the HRS and LRS impedance behavior. The obtained accurate set of material parameters for both Ag-rich and Ag-poor ChG systems and process variation verification on electrical characteristics enables greater fidelity in PMC device simulation, which significantly enhances our ability to understand the underlying physics of ChG-based resistive switching memory.

The functional coupling of the deep abdominal and paraspinal muscles: the effects of simulated paraspinal muscle contraction on force transfer to the middle and posterior layer of the thoracolumbar fascia

PubMed Central

Vleeming, A; Schuenke, M D; Danneels, L; Willard, F H

2014-01-01

The thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) consists of aponeurotic and fascial layers that interweave the paraspinal and abdominal muscles into a complex matrix stabilizing the lumbosacral spine. To better understand low back pain, it is essential to appreciate how these muscles cooperate to influence lumbopelvic stability. This study tested the following hypotheses: (i) pressure within the TLF's paraspinal muscular compartment (PMC) alters load transfer between the TLF's posterior and middle layers (PLF and MLF); and (ii) with increased tension of the common tendon of the transversus abdominis (CTrA) and internal oblique muscles and incremental PMC pressure, fascial tension is primarily transferred to the PLF. In cadaveric axial sections, paraspinal muscles were replaced with inflatable tubes to simulate paraspinal muscle contraction. At each inflation increment, tension was created in the CTrA to simulate contraction of the deep abdominal muscles. Fluoroscopic images and load cells captured changes in the size, shape and tension of the PMC due to inflation, with and without tension to the CTrA. In the absence of PMC pressure, increasing tension on the CTrA resulted in anterior and lateral movement of the PMC. PMC inflation in the absence of tension to the CTrA resulted in a small increase in the PMC perimeter and a larger posterior displacement. Combining PMC inflation and tension to the CTrA resulted in an incremental increase in PLF tension without significantly altering tension in the MLF. Paraspinal muscle contraction leads to posterior displacement of the PLF. When expansion is combined with abdominal muscle contraction, the CTrA and internal oblique transfers tension almost exclusively to the PLF, thereby girdling the paraspinal muscles. The lateral border of the PMC is restrained from displacement to maintain integrity. Posterior movement of the PMC represents an increase of the PLF extension moment arm. Dysfunctional paraspinal muscles would reduce the posterior displacement of the PLF and increase the compliance of the lateral border. The resulting change in PMC geometry could diminish any effects of increased tension of the CTrA. This study reveals a co-dependent mechanism involving balanced tension between deep abdominal and lumbar spinal muscles, which are linked through the aponeurotic components of the TLF. This implies the existence of a point of equal tension between the paraspinal muscles and the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles, acting through the CTrA. PMID:25139243

The functional coupling of the deep abdominal and paraspinal muscles: the effects of simulated paraspinal muscle contraction on force transfer to the middle and posterior layer of the thoracolumbar fascia.

PubMed

Vleeming, A; Schuenke, M D; Danneels, L; Willard, F H

2014-10-01

The thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) consists of aponeurotic and fascial layers that interweave the paraspinal and abdominal muscles into a complex matrix stabilizing the lumbosacral spine. To better understand low back pain, it is essential to appreciate how these muscles cooperate to influence lumbopelvic stability. This study tested the following hypotheses: (i) pressure within the TLF's paraspinal muscular compartment (PMC) alters load transfer between the TLF's posterior and middle layers (PLF and MLF); and (ii) with increased tension of the common tendon of the transversus abdominis (CTrA) and internal oblique muscles and incremental PMC pressure, fascial tension is primarily transferred to the PLF. In cadaveric axial sections, paraspinal muscles were replaced with inflatable tubes to simulate paraspinal muscle contraction. At each inflation increment, tension was created in the CTrA to simulate contraction of the deep abdominal muscles. Fluoroscopic images and load cells captured changes in the size, shape and tension of the PMC due to inflation, with and without tension to the CTrA. In the absence of PMC pressure, increasing tension on the CTrA resulted in anterior and lateral movement of the PMC. PMC inflation in the absence of tension to the CTrA resulted in a small increase in the PMC perimeter and a larger posterior displacement. Combining PMC inflation and tension to the CTrA resulted in an incremental increase in PLF tension without significantly altering tension in the MLF. Paraspinal muscle contraction leads to posterior displacement of the PLF. When expansion is combined with abdominal muscle contraction, the CTrA and internal oblique transfers tension almost exclusively to the PLF, thereby girdling the paraspinal muscles. The lateral border of the PMC is restrained from displacement to maintain integrity. Posterior movement of the PMC represents an increase of the PLF extension moment arm. Dysfunctional paraspinal muscles would reduce the posterior displacement of the PLF and increase the compliance of the lateral border. The resulting change in PMC geometry could diminish any effects of increased tension of the CTrA. This study reveals a co-dependent mechanism involving balanced tension between deep abdominal and lumbar spinal muscles, which are linked through the aponeurotic components of the TLF. This implies the existence of a point of equal tension between the paraspinal muscles and the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles, acting through the CTrA. © 2014 Anatomical Society.

Examining the Impact of the National Institutes of Health Public Access Policy on the Citation Rates of Journal Articles

PubMed Central

De Groote, Sandra L.; Shultz, Mary; Smalheiser, Neil R.

2015-01-01

Purpose To examine whether National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded articles that were archived in PubMed Central (PMC) after the release of the 2008 NIH Public Access Policy show greater scholarly impact than comparable articles not archived in PMC. Methods A list of journals across several subject areas was developed from which to collect article citation data. Citation information and cited reference counts of the articles published in 2006 and 2009 from 122 journals were obtained from the Scopus database. The articles were separated into categories of NIH funded, non-NIH funded and whether they were deposited in PubMed Central. An analysis of citation data across a five-year timespan was performed on this set of articles. Results A total of 45,716 articles were examined, including 7,960 with NIH-funding. An analysis of the number of times these articles were cited found that NIH-funded 2006 articles in PMC were not cited significantly more than NIH-funded non-PMC articles. However, 2009 NIH funded articles in PMC were cited 26% more than 2009 NIH funded articles not in PMC, 5 years after publication. This result is highly significant even after controlling for journal (as a proxy of article quality and topic). Conclusion Our analysis suggests that factors occurring between 2006 and 2009 produced a subsequent boost in scholarly impact of PubMed Central. The 2008 Public Access Policy is likely to be one such factor, but others may have contributed as well (e.g., growing size and visibility of PMC, increasing availability of full-text linkouts from PubMed, and indexing of PMC articles by Google Scholar). PMID:26448551

Bleomycin induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in pleural mesothelial cells

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

Chen, Li-Jun; Ye, Hong; Key Laboratory of Pulmonary Diseases, Ministry of Health of China, Wuhan, Hubei

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive lung disease characterized by the development of subpleural foci of myofibroblasts that contribute to the exuberant fibrosis. Recent studies revealed that pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs) undergo epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and play a pivotal role in IPF. In animal model, bleomycin induces pulmonary fibrosis exhibiting subpleural fibrosis similar to what is seen in human IPF. It is not known yet whether bleomycin induces EMT in PMCs. In the present study, PMCs were cultured and treated with bleomycin. The protein levels of collagen-I, mesenchymal phenotypic markers (vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin), and epithelial phenotypicmore » markers (cytokeratin-8 and E-cadherin) were measured by Western blot. PMC migration was evaluated using wound-healing assay of culture PMCs in vitro, and in vivo by monitoring the localization of PMC marker, calretinin, in the lung sections of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. The results showed that bleomycin induced increases in collagen-I synthesis in PMC. Bleomycin induced significant increases in mesenchymal phenotypic markers and decreases in epithelial phenotypic markers in PMC, and promoted PMC migration in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, TGF-β1-Smad2/3 signaling pathway involved in the EMT of PMC was demonstrated. Taken together, our results indicate that bleomycin induces characteristic changes of EMT in PMC and the latter contributes to subpleural fibrosis. - Highlights: • Bleomycin induces collagen-I synthesis in pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs). • Bleomycin induces increases in vimentin and α-SMA protein in PMCs. • Bleomycin induces decreases in cytokeratin-8 and E-cadherin protein in PMCs • TGF-β1-Smad2/3 signaling pathway is involved in the PMC EMT induced by bleomycin.« less

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

Deur, Alexandre; Shen, Jian -Ming; Wu, Xing -Gang

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) provides scale-fixed perturbative QCD predictions which are independent of the choice of the renormalization scheme, as well as the choice of the initial renormalization scale. In this article, we will test the PMC by comparing its predictions for the strong couplingmore » $$\\alpha^s_{g_1}(Q)$$, defined from the Bjorken sum rule, with predictions using conventional pQCD scale-setting. The two results are found to be compatible with each other and with the available experimental data. However, the PMC provides a significantly more precise determination, although its domain of applicability ($$Q \\gtrsim 1.5$$ GeV) does not extend to as small values of momentum transfer as that of a conventional pQCD analysis ($$Q \\gtrsim 1$$ GeV). In conclusion, we suggest that the PMC range of applicability could be improved by a modified intermediate scheme choice or using a single effective PMC scale.« less

77 FR 20688 - 29th Meeting: RTCA Special Committee 206, Aeronautical Information and Meteorological Data Link...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-05

.... SC-206 Related Work in SESAR--Progress Status. Discuss previously proposed TOR changes and DO-252 Revision. [cir] Discuss TOR changes for the June PMC meeting. PMC decision on OSED document. ConUse FRAC... dates. Decision to approve the ConUse document for release to the PMC. Agree upon TOR changes for June...

Benefit of magnesium-25 carrying porphyrin-fullerene nanoparticles in experimental diabetic neuropathy

PubMed Central

Hosseini, Asieh; Sharifzadeh, Mohammad; Rezayat, Seyed Mahdi; Hassanzadeh, Gholamreza; Hassani, Shokoufeh; Baeeri, Maryam; Shetab-Bushehri, Vahid; Kuznetsov, Dmitry A; Abdollahi, Mohammad

2010-01-01

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a debilitating disorder occurring in most diabetic patients without a viable treatment yet. The present work examined the protective effect of 25Mg-PMC16 nanoparticle (porphyrin adducts of cyclohexil fullerene-C60) in a rat model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN. 25Mg-PMC16 (0.5 lethal dose50 [LD50]) was administered intravenously in two consecutive days before intraperitoneal injection of STZ (45 mg/kg). 24Mg-PMC16 and MgCl2 were used as controls. Blood 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG), oxidative stress biomarkers, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were determined as biomarkers of DN. Results indicated that 2,3-DPG and ATP decreased whereas oxidative stress increased by induction of DN which all were improved in 25Mg-PMC16-treated animals. No significant changes were observed by administration of 24Mg-PMC16 or MgCl2 in DN rats. It is concluded that in DN, oxidative stress initiates injuries to DRG neurons that finally results in death of neurons whereas administration of 25Mg-PMC16 by release of Mg and increasing ATP acts protectively. PMID:20957114

Randomised controlled trial of a text messaging intervention for reducing processed meat consumption: The mediating roles of anticipated regret and intention.

PubMed

Carfora, V; Caso, D; Conner, M

2017-10-01

The present study aimed to extend the literature on text messaging interventions involved in promoting healthy eating behaviours. The theoretical framework was the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A randomized controlled trial was used to test the impact of daily text messages compared to no message (groups) for reducing processed meat consumption (PMC) over a 2 week period, testing the sequential mediation role of anticipated regret and intention on the relationship between groups and PMC reduction. PMC and TPB variables were assessed both at Time 1 and Time 2. Participants were Italian undergraduates (at Time 1 N = 124) randomly allocated to control and message condition groups. Undergraduates in the message condition group received a daily SMS, which focused on anticipated regret and urged them to self-monitor PMC. Participants in the control group did not receive any message. Those who completed all measures at both time points were included in the analyses (N = 112). Findings showed that a daily messaging intervention, controlling for participants' past behaviour, reduced self-reported consumption of PMC. Mediation analyses indicated partial serial mediation via anticipated regret and intentions. The current study provided support for the efficacy of a daily messaging intervention targeting anticipated regret and encouraging self-monitoring in decreasing PMC. Outcomes showed the important mediating role of anticipated regret and intentions for reducing PMC. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple bidirectional alterations of phenotype and changes in proliferative potential during the in vitro and in vivo passage of clonal mast cell populations derived from mouse peritoneal mast cells

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

Kanakura, Y.; Thompson, H.; Nakano, T.

1988-09-01

Mouse peritoneal mast cells (PMC) express a connective tissue-type mast cell (CTMC) phenotype, including reactivity with the heparin-binding fluorescent dye berberine sulfate and incorporation of (35S) sulfate predominantly into heparin proteoglycans. When PMC purified to greater than 99% purity were cultured in methylcellulose with IL-3 and IL-4, approximately 25% of the PMC formed colonies, all of which contained both berberine sulfate-positive and berberine sulfate-negative mast cells. When these mast cells were transferred to suspension culture, they generated populations that were 100% berberine sulfate-negative, a characteristic similar to that of mucosal mast cells (MMC), and that synthesized predominantly chondroitin sulfate (35S)more » proteoglycans. When ''MMC-like'' cultured mast cells derived from WBB6F1-+/+ PMC were injected into the peritoneal cavities of mast cell-deficient WBB6F1-W/Wv mice, the adoptively transferred mast cell population became 100% berberine sulfate-positive. In methylcellulose culture, these ''second generation PMC'' formed clonal colonies containing both berberine sulfate-positive and berberine sulfate-negative cells, but exhibited significantly less proliferative ability than did normal +/+ PMC. Thus, clonal mast cell populations initially derived from single PMC exhibited multiple and bidirectional alterations between CTMC-like and MMC-like phenotypes. However, this process was associated with a progressive diminution of the mast cells' proliferative ability.« less

Fatigue of a 3D Orthogonal Non-crimp Woven Polymer Matrix Composite at Elevated Temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilkinson, M. P.; Ruggles-Wrenn, M. B.

2017-12-01

Tension-tension fatigue behavior of two polymer matrix composites (PMCs) was studied at elevated temperature. The two PMCs consist of the NRPE polyimide matrix reinforced with carbon fibers, but have different fiber architectures: the 3D PMC is a singly-ply non-crimp 3D orthogonal weave composite and the 2D PMC, a laminated composite reinforced with 15 plies of an eight harness satin weave (8HSW) fabric. In order to assess the performance and suitability of the two composites for use in aerospace components designed to contain high-temperature environments, mechanical tests were performed under temperature conditions simulating the actual operating conditions. In all elevated temperature tests performed in this work, one side of the test specimen was at 329 °C while the other side was open to ambient laboratory air. The tensile stress-strain behavior of the two composites was investigated and the tensile properties measured for both on-axis (0/90) and off-axis (±45) fiber orientations. Elevated temperature had little effect on the on-axis tensile properties of the two composites. The off-axis tensile strength of both PMCs decreased slightly at elevated temperature. Tension-tension fatigue tests were conducted at elevated temperature at a frequency of 1.0 Hz with a ratio of minimum stress to maximum stress of R = 0.05. Fatigue run-out was defined as 2 × 105 cycles. Both strain accumulation and modulus evolution during cycling were analyzed for each fatigue test. The laminated 2D PMC exhibited better fatigue resistance than the 3D composite. Specimens that achieved fatigue run-out were subjected to tensile tests to failure to characterize the retained tensile properties. Post-test examination under optical microscope revealed severe delamination in the laminated 2D PMC. The non-crimp 3D orthogonal weave composite offered improved delamination resistance.

How action selection can be embodied: intracranial gamma band recording shows response competition during the Eriksen flankers test

PubMed Central

Caruana, Fausto; Uithol, Sebo; Cantalupo, Gaetano; Sartori, Ivana; Lo Russo, Giorgio; Avanzini, Pietro

2014-01-01

Recent findings in monkeys suggest that action selection is based on a competition between various action options that are automatically planned by the motor system. Here we discuss data from intracranial EEG recordings in human premotor cortex (PMC) during a bimanual version of the Eriksen flankers test that suggest that the same principles apply to human action decisions. Recording sites in the dorsal PMC show an early but undifferentiated activation, a delayed response that depends on the experimental conditions and, finally, a movement related activation during action execution. Additionally, we found that the medial part of the PMC show a significant increase in response for ipsilateral trials, suggesting a role in inhibiting the wrong response. The ventral PMC seems to be involved in action execution, rather than action selection. Together these findings suggest that the human PMC is part of a network that specifies, selects, and executes actions. PMID:25206328

Implications of the principle of maximum conformality for the QCD strong coupling

DOE PAGES

Deur, Alexandre; Shen, Jian -Ming; Wu, Xing -Gang; ...

2017-08-14

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) provides scale-fixed perturbative QCD predictions which are independent of the choice of the renormalization scheme, as well as the choice of the initial renormalization scale. In this article, we will test the PMC by comparing its predictions for the strong couplingmore » $$\\alpha^s_{g_1}(Q)$$, defined from the Bjorken sum rule, with predictions using conventional pQCD scale-setting. The two results are found to be compatible with each other and with the available experimental data. However, the PMC provides a significantly more precise determination, although its domain of applicability ($$Q \\gtrsim 1.5$$ GeV) does not extend to as small values of momentum transfer as that of a conventional pQCD analysis ($$Q \\gtrsim 1$$ GeV). In conclusion, we suggest that the PMC range of applicability could be improved by a modified intermediate scheme choice or using a single effective PMC scale.« less

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

Kumar, G.N.M.; Knowles, N.R.; Houtz, R.L.

Long-term aging of potato (Solanum tuberosum) seed-tubers resulted in a loss of patatin and a cysteine-proteinase inhibitor, potato multicystatin (PMC), as well as in increase in the activities of 84-, 95-, and 125-kD proteinases. Highly active, additional proteinases appeared in the oldest tubers. Over 90% of the total proteolytic activity in aged tubers was sensitive to trans-epoxysuccinyl-L-leucylamido (4-guanidino) butane or leupeptin, whereas pepstatin was the most effective inhibitor of proteinases in young tubers. Proteinases in aged tubers were also inhibited by crude extracts or purified PMC from young tubers, suggesting that the loss of PMC was responsible for the age-inducedmore » increase in proteinase activity. Nonenzymatic oxidation, glycation, and deamidation of proteins were enhanced by aging. Aged tubers developed daughter tubers that contained 3-fold more protein than mother tubers, with a polypeptide profile consistent with that of young tubers. Although PMC and patatin were absent from the older mother tubers, both proteins were expressed in the daughter tubers, indicating that aging did not compromise the efficacy of genes encoding PMC and patatin. Unlike the mother tubers, proteinase activity in daughter tubers was undetectable. Their results indicate that tuber aging nonenzymatically modifies proteins, which enhances their susceptibility to breakdown; the authors also identify a role for PMC in regulating protein turnover in potato tubers.« less

Quantitative framework for prospective motion correction evaluation.

PubMed

Pannetier, Nicolas A; Stavrinos, Theano; Ng, Peter; Herbst, Michael; Zaitsev, Maxim; Young, Karl; Matson, Gerald; Schuff, Norbert

2016-02-01

Establishing a framework to evaluate performances of prospective motion correction (PMC) MRI considering motion variability between MRI scans. A framework was developed to obtain quantitative comparisons between different motion correction setups, considering that varying intrinsic motion patterns between acquisitions can induce bias. Intrinsic motion was considered by replaying in a phantom experiment the recorded motion trajectories from subjects. T1-weighted MRI on five volunteers and two different marker fixations (mouth guard and nose bridge fixations) were used to test the framework. Two metrics were investigated to quantify the improvement of the image quality with PMC. Motion patterns vary between subjects as well as between repeated scans within a subject. This variability can be approximated by replaying the motion in a distinct phantom experiment and used as a covariate in models comparing motion corrections. We show that considering the intrinsic motion alters the statistical significance in comparing marker fixations. As an example, two marker fixations, a mouth guard and a nose bridge, were evaluated in terms of their effectiveness for PMC. A mouth guard achieved better PMC performance. Intrinsic motion patterns can bias comparisons between PMC configurations and must be considered for robust evaluations. A framework for evaluating intrinsic motion patterns in PMC is presented. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Chemical composition and mass closure of ambient coarse particles at traffic and urban-background sites in Thessaloniki, Greece.

PubMed

Grigoratos, Theodoros; Samara, Constantini; Voutsa, Dimitra; Manoli, Evangelia; Kouras, Athanasios

2014-06-01

Concentrations and chemical composition of the coarse particle fraction (PMc) were investigated at two urban sites in the city of Thessaloniki, Greece, through concurrent sampling of PM10 and PM2.5 during the warm and the cold months of the year. PMc levels at the urban-traffic site (UT) were among the highest found in literature worldwide exhibiting higher values in the cold period. PMc levels at the urban-background site (UB) were significantly lower exhibiting a reverse seasonal trend. Concentration levels of minerals and most trace metals were also higher at the UT site suggesting a stronger impact from traffic-related sources (road dust resuspension, brake and tire abrasion, road wear). According to the chemical mass closure obtained, minerals (oxides of Si, Al, Ca, Mg, Fe, Ti, and K) dominated the PMc profile, regardless of the site and the period, with organic matter and secondary inorganic aerosols (mainly nitrate) also contributing considerably to the PMc mass, particularly in the warm period. The influence of wind speed to dilution and/or resuspension of coarse particles was investigated. The source of origin of coarse particles was also investigated using surface wind data and atmospheric back-trajectory modeling. Finally, the contribution of resuspension to PMc levels was estimated for air quality management perspectives.

Inhibitory effect of the nucleus reticularis pontis oralis on the pontine micturition center and pontine urine storage center in decerebrate cats.

PubMed

Sugaya, Kimio; Nishijima, Saori; Miyazato, Minoru; Oda, Masami; Ogawa, Yoshihide

2006-10-01

The influence of the nucleus reticularis pontis oralis (PoO) on the pontine micturition center (PMC) and pontine urine storage center (PUSC) was examined in decerebrate cats by electrical and chemical stimulations of the PMC, PUSC or PoO. Microinjection of carbachol into the rostral and dorsolateral part of the PoO rapidly inhibited reflex micturition and external urethral sphincter (EUS) activity. After confirming the inhibition of reflex micturition and EUS activity by microinjection of carbachol into the PoO, intravenous injection of atropine sulfate or its microinjection into the PoO recovered both reflex micturition and EUS activity. Microinjection of carbachol into the PMC evoked micturition and then inhibited reflex micturition, but intravenous injection of atropine or its microinjection into the PoO recovered reflex micturition. After confi rming the inhibition of reflex micturition and EUS activity by microinjection of carbachol into the PoO, electrical stimulation of the PUSC enhanced EUS activity, but electrical stimulation of the PMC failed to evoke micturition. However, electrical stimulation of the PMC evoked micturition after microinjection of atropine into the PoO. These results suggest that the PoO strongly inhibits the PMC and less strongly inhibits the PUSC. Therefore, the PoO seems to be the pontine micturition inhibitory area.

27-day solar forcing of mesospheric temperature, water vapor and polar mesospheric clouds from the AIM SOFIE and CIPS satellite experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Gary; Thurairajah, Brentha; von Savigny, Christian; Hervig, Mark; Snow, Martin

2016-04-01

Solar cycle variations of ultraviolet radiation have been implicated in the 11-year and 27-day variations of Polar Mesospheric Cloud (PMC) properties. Both of these variations have been attributed to variable solar ultraviolet heating and photolysis, but no definitive studies of the mechanisms are available. The solar forcing issue is critical toward answering the broader question of whether PMC's have undergone long-term changes, and if so, what is the nature of the responsible long-term climate forcings? One of the principal goals of the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere satellite mission was to answer the question: "How does changing solar irradiance affect PMCs and the environment in which they form?" We describe an eight-year data set from the AIM Solar Occultation for Ice Experiment (SOFIE) and the AIM Cloud Imaging and Particle Size (CIPS) experiment. Together, these instruments provide high-precision measurements of high-latitude summertime temperature (T), water vapor (H2O), and PMC ice properties for the period 2007-present. The complete temporal coverage of the summertime polar cap region for both the primary atmospheric forcings of PMC (T and H2O), together with a continually updated time series of Lyman-alpha solar irradiance, allows an in-depth study of the causes and effects of 27-day PMC variability. The small responses of these variables, relative to larger day-to-day changes from gravity waves, tides, inter-hemispheric coupling, etc. require a careful statistical analysis to isolate the solar influence. We present results for the 27-day responses of T, H2O and PMC for a total of 15 PMC seasons, (30 days before summer solstice to 60 days afterward, for both hemispheres). We find that the amplitudes and phase relationships are not consistent with the expected mechanisms of solar UV heating and photolysis - instead we postulate a primarily dynamical response, in which a periodic vertical wind heats/cools the upper mesosphere, and modulates PMC properties via the strong T and H2O sensitivity of ice microphysics. We propose that the wind acting on the strong H2O gradient in the 80-85 km region causes water vapor to be vertically transported, amplifying the temperature effect. Supporting evidence of a ~27-day mode of oscillation will be presented. PMC height is also shown to have a 27-day periodicity, presumably a result of rising/falling of pressure surfaces. Implications of these results for the 11-year variability of PMC will be presented.

From molecule to solid: The prediction of organic crystal structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dzyabchenko, A. V.

2008-10-01

A method for predicting the structure of a molecular crystal based on the systematic search for a global potential energy minimum is considered. The method takes into account unequal occurrences of the structural classes of organic crystals and symmetry of the multidimensional configuration space. The programs of global minimization PMC, comparison of crystal structures CRYCOM, and approximation to the distributions of the electrostatic potentials of molecules FitMEP are presented as tools for numerically solving the problem. Examples of predicted structures substantiated experimentally and the experience of author’s participation in international tests of crystal structure prediction organized by the Cambridge Crystallographic Data Center (Cambridge, UK) are considered.

Prevention of malathion-induced depletion of cardiac cells mitochondrial energy and free radical damage by a magnetic magnesium-carrying nanoparticle.

PubMed

Shafiee, Hoda; Mohammadi, Hamidreza; Rezayat, Seyed Mahdi; Hosseini, Asieh; Baeeri, Maryam; Hassani, Shokoufeh; Mohammadirad, Azadeh; Bayrami, Zahra; Abdollahi, Mohammad

2010-11-01

The present work was designed to examine the effect of a new (25)Mg(2+)-carrying nanoparticle (PMC16) on energy and oxidative stress parameters inside the heart of the rats exposed to acute mild toxic dose of malathion, a widely used organophosphate. Post a single intraperitoneal (ip) injection of malathion (0.25 of LD50), PMC16 at different doses (0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 of LD50) was administered intravenously (iv) as a supplement to standard therapy of atropine and pralidoxime. MgSO(4) was used as another supplement for comparison with PMC16. Oxidative stress biomarkers including lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), ATP/ADP ratio, and Mg in the cardiac cells were determined. Results indicated a significant increase in LPO, ROS, ADP/ATP ratio, and a decrease in Mg post-malathion poisoning in comparison to controls. All of these parameters were improved by use of standard therapy either with MgSO4 or various doses of PMC16. The activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx did not change significantly in the present acute malathion poisoning model and neither MgSO(4) or PMC16 had no considerable improvement on these parameters. Comparing groups that received normal Mg and those of various doses of PMC16, a significant difference was found with the PMC16 (0.2 LD50) group. PMC16 0.2 reduced cardiac cells LPO and ROS of Mal-exposed animals rather than that of MgSO4. PMC16 0.2 was also significantly better than MgSO(4) in improving MAL-induced changes in ADP/ATP ratio and also intracellular Mg levels. This study illustrates that malathion-induced cardiac cells toxicity is improved by administration of Mg as a result of increasing cardiac ATP through active transport of Mg inside the cells. Finally, the results of this study support positive effects of this magnetic Mg nanoparticle carrier but do not confirm its absolute efficacy that remains to be explored by further tests in different animal models and organs before moving to a phase I human trial.

Adjuvant Radioactive iodine 131 ablation in papillary microcarcinoma of thyroid: Saudi Arabian experience [corrected].

PubMed

Al-Qahtani, Khalid Hussain; Al Asiri, Mushabbab; Tunio, Mutahir A; Aljohani, Naji J; Bayoumi, Yasser; Fatani, Hanadi; AlHadab, Abdulrehman

2015-12-01

Papillary Microcarcinoma (PMC) of thyroid is a rare type of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), which according to the World Health Organization measures 1.0 cm or less. The gold standard of treatment of PMC is still controversy. Our aim was to contribute in resolving the debate on the therapeutic choices of the surgical and adjuvant I-131 (RAI) treatment in PMC. From 2000 to 2012, 326 patients were found to have PMC and were retrospectively reviewed for clinicopathological characteristics, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors. Mean age of cohort was 42.6 years (range: 18-76) and the mean tumor size was 0.61 cm ± 0.24; lymph node involvement was seen in 12.9 % of cases. Median follow up period was 8.05 years (1.62-11.4). Total 23 all site recurrences (7.13 %) were observed; more observed in patients without I-131 ablation (p <0.0001). Ten year DFS rates were 89.6 %. Cox regression Model analysis revealed size, histopathologic variants, multifocality, extrathyroidal extension, lymphovascular space invasion, nodal status, and adjuvant RAI ablation the important prognostic factors affecting DFS. Despite excellent DFS rates, a small proportion of patients with PMC develop recurrences after treatment. Adjuvant RAI therapy improves DFS in PMC patients with aggressive histopathologic variants, multifocality, ETE, LVSI, tumor size (> 0.5 cm) and lymph node involvement. Failure of RAI ablation to decrease risk in N1a/b supports prophylactic central neck dissection during thyroidectomy, however more trials are warranted. Adjuvant I-131 ablation following thyroidectomy in PMC patients, particularly with poor prognostic factors improves DFS rates.

Enhancing Motor Network Activity Using Real-Time Functional MRI Neurofeedback of Left Premotor Cortex

PubMed Central

Marins, Theo F.; Rodrigues, Erika C.; Engel, Annerose; Hoefle, Sebastian; Basílio, Rodrigo; Lent, Roberto; Moll, Jorge; Tovar-Moll, Fernanda

2015-01-01

Neurofeedback by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a technique of potential therapeutic relevance that allows individuals to be aware of their own neurophysiological responses and to voluntarily modulate the activity of specific brain regions, such as the premotor cortex (PMC), important for motor recovery after brain injury. We investigated (i) whether healthy human volunteers are able to up-regulate the activity of the left PMC during a right hand finger tapping motor imagery (MI) task while receiving continuous fMRI-neurofeedback, and (ii) whether successful modulation of brain activity influenced non-targeted motor control regions. During the MI task, participants of the neurofeedback group (NFB) received ongoing visual feedback representing the level of fMRI responses within their left PMC. Control (CTL) group participants were shown similar visual stimuli, but these were non-contingent on brain activity. Both groups showed equivalent levels of behavioral ratings on arousal and MI, before and during the fMRI protocol. In the NFB, but not in CLT group, brain activation during the last run compared to the first run revealed increased activation in the left PMC. In addition, the NFB group showed increased activation in motor control regions extending beyond the left PMC target area, including the supplementary motor area, basal ganglia and cerebellum. Moreover, in the last run, the NFB group showed stronger activation in the left PMC/inferior frontal gyrus when compared to the CTL group. Our results indicate that modulation of PMC and associated motor control areas can be achieved during a single neurofeedback-fMRI session. These results contribute to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of MI-based neurofeedback training, with direct implications for rehabilitation strategies in severe brain disorders, such as stroke. PMID:26733832

Relationship between valve calcification and long-term results of percutaneous mitral commissurotomy for rheumatic mitral stenosis.

PubMed

Bouleti, Claire; Iung, Bernard; Himbert, Dominique; Messika-Zeitoun, David; Brochet, Eric; Garbarz, Eric; Cormier, Bertrand; Vahanian, Alec

2014-06-01

Indications of percutaneous mitral commissurotomy (PMC) remain debated in calcific mitral stenosis. We analyzed long-term results of PMC for calcific mitral stenosis and the factors associated with late functional results. We compared the characteristics and outcome of 314 patients undergoing PMC for calcific mitral stenosis with 710 patients with noncalcified valves followed up to 20 years. Calcification was defined by fluoroscopy, and its extent was graded from 1 to 4. Good immediate results (valve area ≥ 1.5 cm(2) with mitral regurgitation ≤ 2/4) were obtained in 251 patients (80%) with calcified valves and 661 (93%) with noncalcified valves (P < 0.001). The hazard ratio for good functional results (survival without cardiovascular death, without mitral reintervention, and in New York Heart Association class I or II) was 2.5 (95% confidence interval [2.1-2.9]; P < 0.0001) in patients with calcified valves (12 ± 3% at 20 years) relative to the noncalcified group (38 ± 2% at 20 years). In the 251 patients with calcified valves who had good immediate results, 15-year rates of good functional results were 35 ± 4% for minor (grade 1) calcification, 24 ± 6% for grade 2, and 10 ± 6% for severe (grades 3-4) calcification. Factors associated with poor late functional results on multivariable analysis were calcification extent, older age, higher New York Heart Association class, atrial fibrillation, and higher mean gradient after PMC. Although late results of PMC are less satisfying in calcific mitral stenosis, long-term functional outcome depends on calcification extent, patient characteristics, and immediate results of PMC. These findings support the use of PMC as first-line treatment in selected patients with calcific mitral stenosis. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

The Change of Intra-cerebral CST Location during Childhood and Adolescence; Diffusion Tensor Tractography Study.

PubMed

Kwon, Yong M; Kwon, Hyeok G; Rose, Jessica; Son, Su M

2016-01-01

Objectives: Corticospinal tract (CST) is the most important tract in motor control. However, there was no study about the change of CST location with aging. In this study, using diffusion tensor tractography (DTT), we attempted to investigate the change of CST location at cortex, corona radiata (CR) and posterior limb of internal capsule (IC) level with aging in typically developing children. Methods: We recruited 76 healthy pediatric subjects (range; 0-19 years). According to the result of DTT, the location of CST at cortex level was classified as follows; prefrontal cortex (PFC), PFC with Premotor cortex (PMC), PMC, PMC with primary motor cortex (M1), M1, M1 with Primary sensory cortex (S1). Anterior-posterior location (%) of CSTs at CR and IC level was also assessed. Results: DTT results about CSTs of 152 hemispheres from 76 subjects were obtained. The most common location of CST projection was M1 area (58.6%) including PMC with M1 (25.7%), M1 (17.8%), and M1 with S1 (15.1%). The mean age of the projection of CST showed considerably younger at anterior cortex than posterior; (PFC; 4.12 years, PFC with PMC; 6.41 years, PMC; 6.72 years, PMC with M1; 9.75 years, M1; 9.85 years, M1 with S1; 12.99 years, S1; 13.75 years). Spearman correlation showed positive correlation between age and the location of CST from anterior to posterior brain cortex ( r = 0.368). Conclusion: We demonstrated that the location of CST projection is different with aging. The result of this study can provide the scientific insight to the maturation study in human brain.

Further studies on the effect of nitrogen dioxide on mast cells: The effect of the metabolite, nitrite

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

Fujimaki, Hidekazu; Ozawa, Masashi; Bissonnette, E.

1993-05-01

To evaluate the relationship between atmospheric nitrogen dioxide exposure and the development of allergic diseases, the effects of nitrite as a chemical product of inhaled nitrogen dioxide on mast cell functions were investigated. We have studied nitride-induced histamine release from two functionally distinct mast cell populations, namely peritoneal mast cells (PMC) and intestinal mucosal mast cells (IMMC) of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis-infected rats. High concentrations of nitrite alone (10, 20, and 50 mM) induced histamine release from IMMC, but not from PMC. Moreover, histamine release from PMC and IMMC stimulated with sensitizing antigen was significantly enhanced by pretreatment with 50 mM nitritemore » or nitrate. No differences in histamine release from nitrite-treated and control PMC were seen below 1 mM. To investigate the effect of nitrite on tumor cell cytotoxic activity, PMC were incubated with various concentrations of nitrite. Pretreatment with 5 and 50 mM nitrite markedly depressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[alpha]-dependent natural cytotoxicity of PMC for the tumor target WEHI-164. Thus, high concentrations of nitrite enhanced mast cell histamine release, but depressed TNF-[alpha]-dependent cytotoxicity. However, low concentrations of nitrite (<1 mM) that would normally be produced by short-term atmospheric exposure to nitrogen dioxide may have no significant effects on mast cell functions. 27 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.« less

From rule to response: neuronal processes in the premotor and prefrontal cortex.

PubMed

Wallis, Jonathan D; Miller, Earl K

2003-09-01

The ability to use abstract rules or principles allows behavior to generalize from specific circumstances (e.g., rules learned in a specific restaurant can subsequently be applied to any dining experience). Neurons in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) encode such rules. However, to guide behavior, rules must be linked to motor responses. We investigated the neuronal mechanisms underlying this process by recording from the PFC and the premotor cortex (PMC) of monkeys trained to use two abstract rules: "same" or "different." The monkeys had to either hold or release a lever, depending on whether two successively presented pictures were the same or different, and depending on which rule was in effect. The abstract rules were represented in both regions, although they were more prevalent and were encoded earlier and more strongly in the PMC. There was a perceptual bias in the PFC, relative to the PMC, with more PFC neurons encoding the presented pictures. In contrast, neurons encoding the behavioral response were more prevalent in the PMC, and the selectivity was stronger and appeared earlier in the PMC than in the PFC.

"What Is Our Story?" Philip Morris's Changing Corporate Narrative.

PubMed

McDaniel, Patricia A; Malone, Ruth E

2015-10-01

We sought to learn how employees reacted to changes in the corporate narrative of Philip Morris Companies (PMC) in the late 1990s and early 2000s. We analyzed archival internal tobacco industry documents about PMC's creation of a new corporate story. In response to litigation and public opprobrium, PMC replaced its market success-oriented corporate narrative with a new one centered on responsibility. Although management sought to downplay inconsistencies between the old and new narratives, some employees reportedly had difficulty reconciling them, concerned that the responsibility focus might affect company profitability. However, others embraced the new narrative, suggesting radical ideas to prevent youth smoking. These ideas were not adopted. PMC's new narrative was unconvincing to many of its employees, who perceived it either as a threat to the company's continued profits or as incongruous with what they had previously been told. As it had done with the public, PMC misled its employees in explaining a narrative repositioning that would help the company continue business as usual. Moving toward a tobacco endgame will require ongoing discursive and symbolic efforts to disrupt this narrative.

An Investigation on the Use of a Laser Ablation Treatment on Metallic Surfaces and the Influence of Temperature on Fracture Toughness of Hybrid Co-Cured Metal-PMC Interfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Connell, John; Palmieri, Frank; Truong, Hieu; Ochoa, Ozden; Lagoudas, Dimitris

2015-01-01

Hybrid composite laminates that contain alternating layers of titanium alloys and carbon fabric reinforced polyimide matrix composites (PMC) are excellent candidates for light-weight, high-temperature structural materials for high-speed aerospace vehicles. The delamination resistance of the hybrid titanium-PMC interface is of crucial consideration for structural integrity during service. Here, we report the first investigations on the use of laser ablation in combination with sol-gel treatment technique on Ti/NiTi foil surfaces in co-cured hybrid polyimide matrix composite laminates. Mode-I and mode-II fracture toughness of the hybrid Ti/NiTi-PMC interface as a function of temperature were determined via experimental testing and finite element analysis.

Correlating PMC-MMC Bonded Joint 3D FEA with Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobson, Mindy; Rodini, Benjamin; Chen, Wayne C.; Flom, Yury A.; Posey, Alan J.

2005-01-01

A viewgraph presentation on the correlation of Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC) and Metal Matrix Composites (MMC) bonded joints using three dimensional finite element analyses with materials tests is shown.

A dual-action, low-volume bowel cleanser administered the day before colonoscopy: results from the SEE CLEAR II study.

PubMed

Katz, Philip O; Rex, Douglas K; Epstein, Michael; Grandhi, Nav K; Vanner, Stephen; Hookey, Lawrence C; Alderfer, Vivian; Joseph, Raymond E

2013-03-01

Optimal bowel preparation is vital for the efficacy and safety of colonoscopy. The inconvenience, discomfort, required consumption of large volumes of product, and potential adverse effects associated with some bowel preparations deter patients from colonoscopy and may provide inadequate cleansing. A dual-action, non-phosphate, natural orange-flavored, low-volume preparation containing sodium picosulfate and magnesium citrate (P/MC) is currently being reviewed for bowel cleansing. This was a phase 3, randomized, multicenter, assessor-blinded, prespecified non-inferiority, head-to-head study to investigate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of day-before administration of P/MC vs. 2L polyethylene glycol solution and two 5-mg bisacodyl tablets (2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (HalfLytely and Bisacodyl Tablets Bowel Prep Kit)) in adult patients preparing for colonoscopy (SEE CLEAR II Study). The primary objective of the study was to demonstrate the non-inferiority of P/MC to 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets in overall colon cleansing using a modified Aronchick scale. In addition, efficacy in the ascending, mid (transverse and descending), and recto-sigmoid segments of colon was evaluated using a modified Ottawa scale. Patient acceptability and tolerability of the bowel preparations were assessed via a standard questionnaire. Safety was assessed based on the monitoring of adverse events (AEs) and meaningful findings on clinical evaluations including physical examinations, vital sign measurements, and electrocardiograms (ECGs). A total of 603 patients were randomized to receive either P/MC (n = 300) or 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (n = 303). Based on the Aronchick scale, successful overall cleansing was similar in patients receiving P/MC (83.0%) and patients receiving 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (79.7%). P/MC demonstrated non-inferiority to 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets in overall cleansing of the colon, as measured by the Aronchick scale. Similarly, the efficacy of P/MC, as measured by the Ottawa scale, was non-inferior to 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets in cleansing the ascending, mid, and recto-sigmoid segments of the colon. Patient-reported acceptability and tolerability for each item examined on the questionnaire was significantly greater for P/MC compared with 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (P<0.0001).Treatment-emergent AEs related to the bowel preparation reported by 1% of patients receiving P/MC or 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets were nausea (3.0% vs. 4.3%), vomiting (1.4% vs. 2.0%), and headache (2.7% vs. 1.7%). No clinically meaningful changes were noted in either treatment arm in data collected from physical examinations, vital sign measurements, and ECGs. When administered as a day-before dose, the bowel cleansing effects of P/MC were non-inferior compared with 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets using the clinician-rated Aronchick and Ottawa scales. Treatment acceptability was significantly more favorable in patients receiving P/MC than in patients receiving 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets.

Paramagnetic capture mode magnetophoretic microseparator for high efficiency blood cell separations.

PubMed

Han, Ki-Ho; Frazier, A Bruno

2006-02-01

This paper presents the characterization of continuous single-stage and three-stage cascade paramagnetic capture (PMC) mode magnetophoretic microseparators for high efficiency separation of red and white blood cells from diluted whole blood based on their native magnetic properties. The separation mechanism for both PMC microseparators is based on a high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) method. This approach enables separation of blood cells without the use of additives such as magnetic beads. Experimental results for the single-stage PMC microseparator show that 91.1% of red blood cells were continuously separated from the sample at a volumetric flow rate of 5 microl h-1. In addition, the three-stage cascade PMC microseparator continuously separated 93.5% of red blood cells and 97.4% of white blood cells from whole blood at a volumetric flow rate of 5 microl h-1.

The renormalization scale-setting problem in QCD

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

Wu, Xing-Gang; Brodsky, Stanley J.; Mojaza, Matin

2013-09-01

A key problem in making precise perturbative QCD predictions is to set the proper renormalization scale of the running coupling. The conventional scale-setting procedure assigns an arbitrary range and an arbitrary systematic error to fixed-order pQCD predictions. In fact, this ad hoc procedure gives results which depend on the choice of the renormalization scheme, and it is in conflict with the standard scale-setting procedure used in QED. Predictions for physical results should be independent of the choice of the scheme or other theoretical conventions. We review current ideas and points of view on how to deal with the renormalization scalemore » ambiguity and show how to obtain renormalization scheme- and scale-independent estimates. We begin by introducing the renormalization group (RG) equation and an extended version, which expresses the invariance of physical observables under both the renormalization scheme and scale-parameter transformations. The RG equation provides a convenient way for estimating the scheme- and scale-dependence of a physical process. We then discuss self-consistency requirements of the RG equations, such as reflexivity, symmetry, and transitivity, which must be satisfied by a scale-setting method. Four typical scale setting methods suggested in the literature, i.e., the Fastest Apparent Convergence (FAC) criterion, the Principle of Minimum Sensitivity (PMS), the Brodsky–Lepage–Mackenzie method (BLM), and the Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC), are introduced. Basic properties and their applications are discussed. We pay particular attention to the PMC, which satisfies all of the requirements of RG invariance. Using the PMC, all non-conformal terms associated with the β-function in the perturbative series are summed into the running coupling, and one obtains a unique, scale-fixed, scheme-independent prediction at any finite order. The PMC provides the principle underlying the BLM method, since it gives the general rule for extending BLM up to any perturbative order; in fact, they are equivalent to each other through the PMC–BLM correspondence principle. Thus, all the features previously observed in the BLM literature are also adaptable to the PMC. The PMC scales and the resulting finite-order PMC predictions are to high accuracy independent of the choice of the initial renormalization scale, and thus consistent with RG invariance. The PMC is also consistent with the renormalization scale-setting procedure for QED in the zero-color limit. The use of the PMC thus eliminates a serious systematic scale error in perturbative QCD predictions, greatly improving the precision of empirical tests of the Standard Model and their sensitivity to new physics.« less

Induced expression of mRNA for IL-5, IL-6, TNF-alpha, MIP-2 and IFN-gamma in immunologically activated rat peritoneal mast cells: inhibition by dexamethasone and cyclosporin A.

PubMed

Williams, C M; Coleman, J W

1995-10-01

We examined the capacity of purified rat peritoneal connective tissue-type mast cells (PMC) to express mRNA for several cytokines. Stimulation of PMC with anti-IgE for 4 hr induced the expression of mRNA encoding interleukin-5 (IL-5), IL-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Unstimulated PMC expressed detectable mRNA for TNF-alpha but not for the other four cytokines. Incubation of PMC with cyclosporin A (CsA) or dexamethasone (DEX), each at 10(-6) M for 24 hr, significantly inhibited the induced expression of mRNA for each of the five cytokines, and also inhibited release of biologically active TNF-alpha. Throughout these experiments mRNA levels of the housekeeping gene G3PDH were not altered by stimulation with anti-IgE or incubation with CsA or DEX. We conclude that immunological activation of rat PMC induces gene expression of several cytokines and that expression of these genes can be inhibited by immunosuppressive drugs.

Induced expression of mRNA for IL-5, IL-6, TNF-alpha, MIP-2 and IFN-gamma in immunologically activated rat peritoneal mast cells: inhibition by dexamethasone and cyclosporin A.

PubMed Central

Williams, C M; Coleman, J W

1995-01-01

We examined the capacity of purified rat peritoneal connective tissue-type mast cells (PMC) to express mRNA for several cytokines. Stimulation of PMC with anti-IgE for 4 hr induced the expression of mRNA encoding interleukin-5 (IL-5), IL-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Unstimulated PMC expressed detectable mRNA for TNF-alpha but not for the other four cytokines. Incubation of PMC with cyclosporin A (CsA) or dexamethasone (DEX), each at 10(-6) M for 24 hr, significantly inhibited the induced expression of mRNA for each of the five cytokines, and also inhibited release of biologically active TNF-alpha. Throughout these experiments mRNA levels of the housekeeping gene G3PDH were not altered by stimulation with anti-IgE or incubation with CsA or DEX. We conclude that immunological activation of rat PMC induces gene expression of several cytokines and that expression of these genes can be inhibited by immunosuppressive drugs. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 PMID:7490125

Preparation of zeolite nanorods by corona discharge plasma for degradation of phenazopyridine by heterogeneous sono-Fenton-like process.

PubMed

Khataee, Alireza; Rad, Tannaz Sadeghi; Vahid, Behrouz; Khorram, Sirous

2016-11-01

The plasma-modified clinoptilolite (PMC) nanorods were prepared from natural clinoptilolite (NC) utilizing environmentally-friendly corona discharge plasma. The PMC and NC were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, EDX, XPS and BET, which confirmed the nanocatalyst formation. The catalytic performance of the PMC in the heterogeneous sono-Fenton-like process was greater than the NC for treatment of phenazopyridine (PhP). The desired amounts were obtained for experimental parameters including initial pH (5), PMC dosage (2g/L), K2S2O8 concentration (2mmol/L), ultrasonic power (300W) and PhP concentration (10mg/L). Reactive oxygen species scavengers decreased the removal efficiency of the PhP. The treatment process followed pseudo-first order kinetic and seven degradation intermediates were identified by the GC-MS technique. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Benign multicystic mesothelioma and peritoneal inclusion cysts: are they the same clinical and histopathological entities? A systematic review to find an evidence-based management.

PubMed

Rapisarda, Agnese Maria Chiara; Cianci, Antonio; Caruso, Salvatore; Vitale, Salvatore Giovanni; Valenti, Gaetano; Piombino, Eliana; Cianci, Stefano

2018-06-01

Peritoneal mesothelial cysts (PMC) are a clinical dilemma because of their true pathogenic nature. Many definitions have been associated with PMC, including "benign multicystic mesothelioma", "cystic mesothelioma", "multilocular peritoneal inclusion cysts", ''inflammatory cysts of the peritoneum" or "postoperative peritoneal cyst". We herein performed a systematic review of the literature focusing on clinical and histopathological aspects of PMC, diagnosis, and therapies. Moreover, we described our experience with a case of PMC in a young female. Since there is often a history of prior surgery or inflammatory disease, most authors consider PMC of reactive origin. However, in some cases they occur without any documentable signs of disease or injury. A variety of clinical findings can complicate the preoperative assessment and a multitude of histological pictures may potentially lead to a misdiagnosis. The absence of a uniform treatment strategy and lack of long-term follow-up often hinder the accurate definition leading to unnecessary or unnecessarily aggressive therapy. PMC are more common than had previously been thought. Most authors consider them non-neoplastic; thus the designation of "peritoneal inclusion cyst" is preferable. The term "mesothelioma" should be used only in cases of histological evidences of atypia. The high rates of recurrence suggest that the goal of treatment should not be necessarily complete eradication, but symptomatic relief through individualized treatment. This is a topic of particular importance, especially in young female where recurrence rates could be lower than those reported in adults and where an improperly aggressive treatment could have repercussions on fertility.

Low-Cost Resin Transfer Molding Process Developed for High-Temperature Polyimide Matrix Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

The use of high-temperature polymer matrix composites (PMC's) in aircraft engine applications can significantly reduce engine weight and improve performance and fuel efficiency. High-temperature PMC's, such as those based on the PMR-15 polyimide matrix resin developed by the NASA Lewis Research Center, have been used extensively in military applications where performance improvements have justified their use regardless of the cost involved in producing the component. However, in commercial engines cost is a primary driver, and PMC components must be produced at costs comparable to those of the metal components that they will replace.

UKPMC: a full text article resource for the life sciences.

PubMed

McEntyre, Johanna R; Ananiadou, Sophia; Andrews, Stephen; Black, William J; Boulderstone, Richard; Buttery, Paula; Chaplin, David; Chevuru, Sandeepreddy; Cobley, Norman; Coleman, Lee-Ann; Davey, Paul; Gupta, Bharti; Haji-Gholam, Lesley; Hawkins, Craig; Horne, Alan; Hubbard, Simon J; Kim, Jee-Hyub; Lewin, Ian; Lyte, Vic; MacIntyre, Ross; Mansoor, Sami; Mason, Linda; McNaught, John; Newbold, Elizabeth; Nobata, Chikashi; Ong, Ernest; Pillai, Sharmila; Rebholz-Schuhmann, Dietrich; Rosie, Heather; Rowbotham, Rob; Rupp, C J; Stoehr, Peter; Vaughan, Philip

2011-01-01

UK PubMed Central (UKPMC) is a full-text article database that extends the functionality of the original PubMed Central (PMC) repository. The UKPMC project was launched as the first 'mirror' site to PMC, which in analogy to the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration, aims to provide international preservation of the open and free-access biomedical literature. UKPMC (http://ukpmc.ac.uk) has undergone considerable development since its inception in 2007 and now includes both a UKPMC and PubMed search, as well as access to other records such as Agricola, Patents and recent biomedical theses. UKPMC also differs from PubMed/PMC in that the full text and abstract information can be searched in an integrated manner from one input box. Furthermore, UKPMC contains 'Cited By' information as an alternative way to navigate the literature and has incorporated text-mining approaches to semantically enrich content and integrate it with related database resources. Finally, UKPMC also offers added-value services (UKPMC+) that enable grantees to deposit manuscripts, link papers to grants, publish online portfolios and view citation information on their papers. Here we describe UKPMC and clarify the relationship between PMC and UKPMC, providing historical context and future directions, 10 years on from when PMC was first launched.

Cold adapted features of Vibrio salmonicida catalase: characterisation and comparison to the mesophilic counterpart from Proteus mirabilis.

PubMed

Lorentzen, Marit Sjo; Moe, Elin; Jouve, Hélène Marie; Willassen, Nils Peder

2006-10-01

The gene encoding catalase from the psychrophilic marine bacterium Vibrio salmonicida LFI1238 was identified, cloned and expressed in the catalase-deficient Escherichia coli UM2. Recombinant catalase from V. salmonicida (VSC) was purified to apparent homogeneity as a tetramer with a molecular mass of 235 kDa. VSC contained 67% heme b and 25% protoporphyrin IX. VSC was able to bind NADPH, react with cyanide and form compounds I and II as other monofunctional small subunit heme catalases. Amino acid sequence alignment of VSC and catalase from the mesophilic Proteus mirabilis (PMC) revealed 71% identity. As for cold adapted enzymes in general, VSC possessed a lower temperature optimum and higher catalytic efficiency (k (cat)/K (m)) compared to PMC. VSC have higher affinity for hydrogen peroxide (apparent K (m)) at all temperatures. For VSC the turnover rate (k (cat)) is slightly lower while the catalytic efficiency is slightly higher compared to PMC over the temperature range measured, except at 4 degrees C. Moreover, the catalytic efficiency of VSC and PMC is almost temperature independent, except at 4 degrees C where PMC has a twofold lower efficiency compared to VSC. This may indicate that VSC has evolved to maintain a high efficiency at low temperatures.

UKPMC: a full text article resource for the life sciences

PubMed Central

McEntyre, Johanna R.; Ananiadou, Sophia; Andrews, Stephen; Black, William J.; Boulderstone, Richard; Buttery, Paula; Chaplin, David; Chevuru, Sandeepreddy; Cobley, Norman; Coleman, Lee-Ann; Davey, Paul; Gupta, Bharti; Haji-Gholam, Lesley; Hawkins, Craig; Horne, Alan; Hubbard, Simon J.; Kim, Jee-Hyub; Lewin, Ian; Lyte, Vic; MacIntyre, Ross; Mansoor, Sami; Mason, Linda; McNaught, John; Newbold, Elizabeth; Nobata, Chikashi; Ong, Ernest; Pillai, Sharmila; Rebholz-Schuhmann, Dietrich; Rosie, Heather; Rowbotham, Rob; Rupp, C. J.; Stoehr, Peter; Vaughan, Philip

2011-01-01

UK PubMed Central (UKPMC) is a full-text article database that extends the functionality of the original PubMed Central (PMC) repository. The UKPMC project was launched as the first ‘mirror’ site to PMC, which in analogy to the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration, aims to provide international preservation of the open and free-access biomedical literature. UKPMC (http://ukpmc.ac.uk) has undergone considerable development since its inception in 2007 and now includes both a UKPMC and PubMed search, as well as access to other records such as Agricola, Patents and recent biomedical theses. UKPMC also differs from PubMed/PMC in that the full text and abstract information can be searched in an integrated manner from one input box. Furthermore, UKPMC contains ‘Cited By’ information as an alternative way to navigate the literature and has incorporated text-mining approaches to semantically enrich content and integrate it with related database resources. Finally, UKPMC also offers added-value services (UKPMC+) that enable grantees to deposit manuscripts, link papers to grants, publish online portfolios and view citation information on their papers. Here we describe UKPMC and clarify the relationship between PMC and UKPMC, providing historical context and future directions, 10 years on from when PMC was first launched. PMID:21062818

Reducing indoor air pollutants with air filtration units in wood stove homes.

PubMed

McNamara, Marcy L; Thornburg, Jonathon; Semmens, Erin O; Ward, Tony J; Noonan, Curtis W

2017-08-15

Biomass burning has been shown to be a major source of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in developing and higher income countries across the world. Specifically, wood burning for cooking and heating contributes to high indoor concentrations of fine (particles with aerodynamic diameters<2.5μm; PM 2.5 ) and coarse (particles with aerodynamic diameters <10μm and >2.5μm; PMc) particulate matter. Endotoxin, predominantly found within the coarse fraction of airborne particulate matter, is associated with proinflammatory effects and adverse outcomes among susceptible populations. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of air filter interventions in reducing indoor PM 2.5 , PMc, and PMc-associated endotoxin concentrations in homes using a wood stove for primary heating. Homes (n=48) were randomized to receive in-room air filtration units with either a high efficiency filter (i.e. active) or a lower efficiency fiberglass filter (i.e., placebo). The active filter intervention showed a 66% reduction in indoor PM 2.5 concentrations (95% CI: 42.2% to 79.7% reduction) relative to the placebo intervention. Both the active and the placebo filters were effective in substantially reducing indoor concentrations of PMc (63.3% and 40.6% average reduction for active and placebo filters, respectively) and PMc-associated endotoxin concentrations (91.8% and 80.4% average reductions, respectively). These findings support the use of high efficiency air filtration units for reducing indoor PM 2.5 in homes using a wood stove for primary heating. We also discovered that using lower efficiency, lower cost filter alternatives can be effective for reducing PMc and airborne endotoxin in homes burning biomass fuel. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Improvement in verbal memory following SSRI augmentation of antipsychotic treatment is associated with changes in the expression of mRNA encoding for the GABA-A receptor and BDNF in PMC of schizophrenic patients.

PubMed

Silver, Henry; Mandiuk, Nina; Einoch, Reef; Susser, Ehud; Danovich, Lena; Bilker, Warren; Youdim, Moussa; Weinreb, Orly

2015-05-01

Verbal memory impairment in schizophrenia is associated with abnormalities in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) systems. Recent evidence from animal and clinical studies that adding fluvoxamine to antipsychotics alters the expression of transcripts encoding for the GABA-A receptor and BDNF led us to postulate that fluvoxamine augmentation may improve memory in schizophrenia. To test this, we examined the effect of add-on fluvoxamine on verbal memory and other cognitive functions and related it to the expression of mRNA coding for the GABA-A receptor and BDNF in peripheral mononuclear cells (PMC) of schizophrenic patients. Twenty-nine patients completed a 6-week study in which fluvoxamine (100 mg/day) was added to ongoing antipsychotic treatment. Verbal memory, abstraction working memory, object and face recognition, and psychomotor speed and clinical symptoms were assessed at baseline and after 3 and 6 weeks of treatment. Blood samples were taken at baseline and weeks 1, 3, and 6 and PMC was assayed for the GABA-A beta3 receptor and BDNF mRNA by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR. Associative and logical verbal memory improved significantly and showed a significant correlation with changes in PMC BDNF and GABA-A beta3 receptor mRNA, which increased during treatment. Abstraction and object recognition improved, but this did not correlate with PMC measures. Negative and positive symptoms improved significantly; the latter showed significant correlations with changes in PMC measures. Addition of fluvoxamine to antipsychotics improves verbal memory. It is postulated that the mechanism involves enhanced GABA-A receptor/BDNF-dependent synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.

Splenic release of platelets contributes to increased circulating platelet size and inflammation after myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Gao, Xiao-Ming; Moore, Xiao-Lei; Liu, Yang; Wang, Xin-Yu; Han, Li-Ping; Su, Yidan; Tsai, Alan; Xu, Qi; Zhang, Ming; Lambert, Gavin W; Kiriazis, Helen; Gao, Wei; Dart, Anthony M; Du, Xiao-Jun

2016-07-01

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is characterized by a rapid increase in circulating platelet size but the mechanism for this is unclear. Large platelets are hyperactive and associated with adverse clinical outcomes. We determined mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet-monocyte conjugation (PMC) using blood samples from patients, and blood and the spleen from mice with AMI. We further measured changes in platelet size, PMC, cardiac and splenic contents of platelets and leucocyte infiltration into the mouse heart. In AMI patients, circulating MPV and PMC increased at 1-3 h post-MI and MPV returned to reference levels within 24 h after admission. In mice with MI, increases in platelet size and PMC became evident within 12 h and were sustained up to 72 h. Splenic platelets are bigger than circulating platelets in normal or infarct mice. At 24 h post-MI, splenic platelet storage was halved whereas cardiac platelets increased by 4-fold. Splenectomy attenuated all changes observed in the blood, reduced leucocyte and platelet accumulation in the infarct myocardium, limited infarct size and alleviated cardiac dilatation and dysfunction. AMI-induced elevated circulating levels of adenosine diphosphate and catecholamines in both human and the mouse, which may trigger splenic platelet release. Pharmacological inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme, β1-adrenergic receptor or platelet P2Y12 receptor reduced platelet abundance in the murine infarct myocardium albeit having diverse effects on platelet size and PMC. In conclusion, AMI evokes release of splenic platelets, which contributes to the increase in platelet size and PMC and facilitates myocardial accumulation of platelets and leucocytes, thereby promoting post-infarct inflammation. © 2016 The Author(s). published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Effect of elasticity on stress distribution in CAD/CAM dental crowns: Glass ceramic vs. polymer-matrix composite.

PubMed

Duan, Yuanyuan; Griggs, Jason A

2015-06-01

Further investigations are required to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of newly developed polymer-matrix composite (PMC) blocks for computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) applications. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of elasticity on the stress distribution in dental crowns made of glass-ceramic and PMC materials using finite element (FE) analysis. Elastic constants of two materials were determined by ultrasonic pulse velocity using an acoustic thickness gauge. Three-dimensional solid models of a full-coverage dental crown on a first mandibular molar were generated based on X-ray micro-CT scanning images. A variety of load case-material property combinations were simulated and conducted using FE analysis. The first principal stress distribution in the crown and luting agent was plotted and analyzed. The glass-ceramic crown had stress concentrations on the occlusal surface surrounding the area of loading and the cemented surface underneath the area of loading, while the PMC crown had only stress concentration on the occlusal surface. The PMC crown had lower maximum stress than the glass-ceramic crown in all load cases, but this difference was not substantial when the loading had a lateral component. Eccentric loading did not substantially increase the maximum stress in the prosthesis. Both materials are resistant to fracture with physiological occlusal load. The PMC crown had lower maximum stress than the glass-ceramic crown, but the effect of a lateral loading component was more pronounced for a PMC crown than for a glass-ceramic crown. Knowledge of the stress distribution in dental crowns with low modulus of elasticity will aid clinicians in planning treatments that include such restorations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Regulation of the High-Affinity NO3− Uptake System by NRT1.1-Mediated NO3− Demand Signaling in Arabidopsis[W

PubMed Central

Krouk, Gabriel; Tillard, Pascal; Gojon, Alain

2006-01-01

The NRT2.1 gene of Arabidopsis thaliana encodes a major component of the root high-affinity \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} transport system (HATS) that plays a crucial role in \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} uptake by the plant. Although NRT2.1 was known to be induced by \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} and feedback repressed by reduced nitrogen (N) metabolites, NRT2.1 is surprisingly up-regulated when \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} concentration decreases to a low level (<0.5 mm) in media containing a high concentration of \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NH}}_{4}^{+}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} or Gln (≥1 mm). The NRT3.1 gene, encoding another key component of the HATS, displays the same response pattern. This revealed that both NRT2.1 and NRT3.1 are coordinately down-regulated by high external \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} availability through a mechanism independent from that involving N metabolites. We show here that repression of both genes by high \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} is specifically mediated by the NRT1.1 \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} transporter. This mechanism warrants that either NRT1.1 or NRT2.1 is active in taking up \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} in the presence of a reduced N source. Under low \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}/{\\mathrm{high\\hspace{.167em}NH}}_{4}^{+}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} provision, NRT1.1-mediated repression of NRT2.1/NRT3.1 is relieved, which allows reactivation of the HATS. Analysis of atnrt2.1 mutants showed that this constitutes a crucial adaptive response against \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NH}}_{4}^{+}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} toxicity because \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} taken up by the HATS in this situation prevents the detrimental effects of pure \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NH}}_{4}^{+}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} nutrition. It is thus hypothesized that NRT1.1-mediated regulation of NRT2.1/NRT3.1 is a mechanism aiming to satisfy a specific \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} demand of the plant in relation to the various specific roles that \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} plays, in addition to being a N source. A new model is proposed for regulation of the HATS, involving both feedback repression by N metabolites and NRT1.1-mediated repression by high \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{NO}}_{3}^{-}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}. PMID:16998085

MULTI-SITE FIELD EVALUATION OF CANDIDATE SAMPLERS FOR MEASURING COARSE-MODE PM

EPA Science Inventory

In response to expected changes to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for particulate matter, comprehensive field studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for measuring coarse mode aerosols (i.e. PMc). Five separate PMc sampling approaches w...

Influence of Thin-Film Adhesives in Pullout Tests Between Nickel-Titanium Shape Memory Alloy and Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quade, Derek J.; Jana, Sadhan; McCorkle, Linda S.

2018-01-01

Strips of nickel-titanium (NiTi) shape memory alloy (SMA) and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite (PMC) were bonded together using multiple thin film adhesives and their mechanical strengths were evaluated under pullout test configuration. Tensile and lap shear tests were conducted to confirm the deformation of SMAs at room temperature and to evaluate the adhesive strength between the NiTi strips and the PMC. Optical and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to examine the interfacial bonding after failure. Simple equations on composite tensile elongation were used to fit the experimental data on tensile properties. ABAQUS models were generated to show the effects of enhanced bond strength and the distribution of stress in SMA and PMC. The results revealed that the addition of thin film adhesives increased the average adhesive strength between SMA and PMC while halting the room temperature shape memory effect within the pullout specimen.

TH-A-19A-04: Latent Uncertainties and Performance of a GPU-Implemented Pre-Calculated Track Monte Carlo Method

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

Renaud, M; Seuntjens, J; Roberge, D

Purpose: Assessing the performance and uncertainty of a pre-calculated Monte Carlo (PMC) algorithm for proton and electron transport running on graphics processing units (GPU). While PMC methods have been described in the past, an explicit quantification of the latent uncertainty arising from recycling a limited number of tracks in the pre-generated track bank is missing from the literature. With a proper uncertainty analysis, an optimal pre-generated track bank size can be selected for a desired dose calculation uncertainty. Methods: Particle tracks were pre-generated for electrons and protons using EGSnrc and GEANT4, respectively. The PMC algorithm for track transport was implementedmore » on the CUDA programming framework. GPU-PMC dose distributions were compared to benchmark dose distributions simulated using general-purpose MC codes in the same conditions. A latent uncertainty analysis was performed by comparing GPUPMC dose values to a “ground truth” benchmark while varying the track bank size and primary particle histories. Results: GPU-PMC dose distributions and benchmark doses were within 1% of each other in voxels with dose greater than 50% of Dmax. In proton calculations, a submillimeter distance-to-agreement error was observed at the Bragg Peak. Latent uncertainty followed a Poisson distribution with the number of tracks per energy (TPE) and a track bank of 20,000 TPE produced a latent uncertainty of approximately 1%. Efficiency analysis showed a 937× and 508× gain over a single processor core running DOSXYZnrc for 16 MeV electrons in water and bone, respectively. Conclusion: The GPU-PMC method can calculate dose distributions for electrons and protons to a statistical uncertainty below 1%. The track bank size necessary to achieve an optimal efficiency can be tuned based on the desired uncertainty. Coupled with a model to calculate dose contributions from uncharged particles, GPU-PMC is a candidate for inverse planning of modulated electron radiotherapy and scanned proton beams. This work was supported in part by FRSQ-MSSS (Grant No. 22090), NSERC RG (Grant No. 432290) and CIHR MOP (Grant No. MOP-211360)« less

76 FR 35295 - Delivering an Efficient, Effective, and Accountable Government

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-16

... reinforce the performance and management reform gains my Administration has achieved, it is hereby ordered... and leaner Government, my Administration will reinforce the performance and management reform gains... (PMC), shall work with the PMC to support agencies' performance and management reform and cost- cutting...

Importance of proper renormalization scale-setting for QCD testing at colliders

DOE PAGES

Wu, Xing -Gang; Wang, Sheng -Quan; Brodsky, Stanley J.

2015-12-22

A primary problem affecting perturbative quantum chromodynamic (pQCD) analyses is the lack of a method for setting the QCD running-coupling renormalization scale such that maximally precise fixed-order predictions for physical observables are obtained. The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) eliminates the ambiguities associated with the conventional renormalization scale-setting procedure, yielding predictions that are independent of the choice of renormalization scheme. The QCD coupling scales and the effective number of quark flavors are set order-by-order in the pQCD series. The PMC has a solid theoretical foundation, satisfying the standard renormalization group invariance condition and all of the self-consistency conditions derived frommore » the renormalization group. The PMC scales at each order are obtained by shifting the arguments of the strong force coupling constant αs to eliminate all non-conformal {βi} terms in the pQCD series. The {βi} terms are determined from renormalization group equations without ambiguity. The correct behavior of the running coupling at each order and at each phase-space point can then be obtained. The PMC reduces in the N C → 0 Abelian limit to the Gell-Mann-Low method. In this brief report, we summarize the results of our recent application of the PMC to a number of collider processes, emphasizing the generality and applicability of this approach. A discussion of hadronic Z decays shows that, by applying the PMC, one can achieve accurate predictions for the total and separate decay widths at each order without scale ambiguities. We also show that, if one employs the PMC to determine the top-quark pair forward-backward asymmetry at the next-to-next-to-leading order level, one obtains a comprehensive, self-consistent pQCD explanation for the Tevatron measurements of the asymmetry. This accounts for the “increasing-decreasing” behavior observed by the D0 collaboration for increasing tt¯ invariant mass. At lower energies, the angular distributions of heavy quarks can be used to obtain a direct determination of the heavy quark potential. A discussion of the angular distributions of massive quarks and leptons is also presented, including the fermionic component of the two-loop corrections to the electromagnetic form factors. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that the application of the PMC systematically eliminates a major theoretical uncertainty for pQCD predictions, thus increasing collider sensitivity to possible new physics beyond the Standard Model.« less

Rats with decreased brain cholecystokinin levels show increased responsiveness to peripheral electrical stimulation-induced analgesia.

PubMed

Zhang, L X; Li, X L; Wang, L; Han, J S

1997-01-16

Using the P77PMC strain of rat, which is genetically prone to audiogenic seizures, and also has decreased levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), we examined the analgesic response to peripheral electrical stimulation, which is, in part, opiate-mediated. A number of studies have suggested that CCK may function as an antagonist to endogenous opiate effects. Therefore, we hypothesized that the P77PMC animals would show an enhanced analgesic response based on their decreased CCK levels producing a diminished endogenous opiate antagonism. We found that the analgesic effect on tail flick latency produced by 100 Hz peripheral electrical stimulation was more potent and longer lasting in P77PMC rats than in control rats. Moreover, the potency of the stimulation-produced analgesia correlated with the vulnerability to audiogenic seizures in these rats. We were able to block the peripheral electrical stimulation-induced analgesia (PSIA) using a cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) administered parenterally. Radioimmunoassay showed that the content of CCK-8 in cerebral cortex, hippocampus and periaqueductal gray was much lower in P77PMC rat than in controls. These results suggest that low CCK-8 content in the central nervous system of the P77PMC rats may be related to the high analgesic response to peripheral electrical stimulation, and further support the notion that CCK may be endogenous opiate antagonist.

Downregulation of hPMC2 imparts chemotherapeutic sensitivity to alkylating agents in breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Krishnamurthy, Nirmala; Liu, Lili; Xiong, Xiahui; Zhang, Junran; Montano, Monica M

2015-01-01

Triple negative breast cancer cell lines have been reported to be resistant to the cyotoxic effects of temozolomide (TMZ). We have shown previously that a novel protein, human homolog of Xenopus gene which Prevents Mitotic Catastrophe (hPMC2) has a role in the repair of estrogen-induced abasic sites. Our present study provides evidence that downregulation of hPMC2 in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells treated with temozolomide (TMZ) decreases cell survival. This increased sensitivity to TMZ is associated with an increase in number of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites in the DNA. We also show that treatment with another alkylating agent, BCNU, results in an increase in AP sites and decrease in cell survival. Quantification of western blot analyses and immunofluorescence experiments reveal that treatment of hPMC2 downregulated cells with TMZ results in an increase in γ-H2AX levels, suggesting an increase in double strand DNA breaks. The enhancement of DNA double strand breaks in TMZ treated cells upon downregulation of hPCM2 is also revealed by the comet assay. Overall, we provide evidence that downregulation of hPMC2 in breast cancer cells increases cytotoxicity of alkylating agents, representing a novel mechanism of treatment for breast cancer. Our data thus has important clinical implications in the management of breast cancer and brings forth potentially new therapeutic strategies.

Investigating Gravity Waves in Polar Mesospheric Clouds Using Tomographic Reconstructions of AIM Satellite Imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hart, V. P.; Taylor, M. J.; Doyle, T. E.; Zhao, Y.; Pautet, P.-D.; Carruth, B. L.; Rusch, D. W.; Russell, J. M.

2018-01-01

This research presents the first application of tomographic techniques for investigating gravity wave structures in polar mesospheric clouds (PMCs) imaged by the Cloud Imaging and Particle Size instrument on the NASA AIM satellite. Albedo data comprising consecutive PMC scenes were used to tomographically reconstruct a 3-D layer using the Partially Constrained Algebraic Reconstruction Technique algorithm and a previously developed "fanning" technique. For this pilot study, a large region (760 × 148 km) of the PMC layer (altitude 83 km) was sampled with a 2 km horizontal resolution, and an intensity weighted centroid technique was developed to create novel 2-D surface maps, characterizing the individual gravity waves as well as their altitude variability. Spectral analysis of seven selected wave events observed during the Northern Hemisphere 2007 PMC season exhibited dominant horizontal wavelengths of 60-90 km, consistent with previous studies. These tomographic analyses have enabled a broad range of new investigations. For example, a clear spatial anticorrelation was observed between the PMC albedo and wave-induced altitude changes, with higher-albedo structures aligning well with wave troughs, while low-intensity regions aligned with wave crests. This result appears to be consistent with current theories of PMC development in the mesopause region. This new tomographic imaging technique also provides valuable wave amplitude information enabling further mesospheric gravity wave investigations, including quantitative analysis of their hemispheric and interannual characteristics and variations.

The cortical activation pattern by a rehabilitation robotic hand: a functional NIRS study

PubMed Central

Chang, Pyung-Hun; Lee, Seung-Hee; Gu, Gwang Min; Lee, Seung-Hyun; Jin, Sang-Hyun; Yeo, Sang Seok; Seo, Jeong Pyo; Jang, Sung Ho

2014-01-01

Introduction: Clarification of the relationship between external stimuli and brain response has been an important topic in neuroscience and brain rehabilitation. In the current study, using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), we attempted to investigate cortical activation patterns generated during execution of a rehabilitation robotic hand. Methods: Ten normal subjects were recruited for this study. Passive movements of the right fingers were performed using a rehabilitation robotic hand at a frequency of 0.5 Hz. We measured values of oxy-hemoglobin (HbO), deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR) and total-hemoglobin (HbT) in five regions of interest: the primary sensory-motor cortex (SM1), hand somatotopy of the contralateral SM1, supplementary motor area (SMA), premotor cortex (PMC), and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Results: HbO and HbT values indicated significant activation in the left SM1, left SMA, left PMC, and left PFC during execution of the rehabilitation robotic hand (uncorrected, p < 0.01). By contrast, HbR value indicated significant activation only in the hand somatotopic area of the left SM1 (uncorrected, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our results appear to indicate that execution of the rehabilitation robotic hand could induce cortical activation. PMID:24570660

77 FR 30584 - Thirtieth Meeting: RTCA Special Committee 206, Aeronautical Information and Meteorological Data...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-23

... preliminary roadmap SG1 report SG2 report SG3 report SAE G-10 AI ARP Briefing to SC-206 Plenary 12:30 p.m... document for release to the PMC SG3 report PMC decision on TOR revision Action item review Future meeting...

7 CFR 600.8 - Plant materials centers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Plant materials centers. 600.8 Section 600.8..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GENERAL ORGANIZATION § 600.8 Plant materials centers. Plant materials centers (PMC) assemble and test plant species for conservation uses. Usually a PMC serves two or more States, and is...

7 CFR 600.8 - Plant materials centers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Plant materials centers. 600.8 Section 600.8..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GENERAL ORGANIZATION § 600.8 Plant materials centers. Plant materials centers (PMC) assemble and test plant species for conservation uses. Usually a PMC serves two or more States, and is...

7 CFR 600.8 - Plant materials centers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Plant materials centers. 600.8 Section 600.8..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GENERAL ORGANIZATION § 600.8 Plant materials centers. Plant materials centers (PMC) assemble and test plant species for conservation uses. Usually a PMC serves two or more States, and is...

7 CFR 600.8 - Plant materials centers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Plant materials centers. 600.8 Section 600.8..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GENERAL ORGANIZATION § 600.8 Plant materials centers. Plant materials centers (PMC) assemble and test plant species for conservation uses. Usually a PMC serves two or more States, and is...

7 CFR 600.8 - Plant materials centers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Plant materials centers. 600.8 Section 600.8..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GENERAL ORGANIZATION § 600.8 Plant materials centers. Plant materials centers (PMC) assemble and test plant species for conservation uses. Usually a PMC serves two or more States, and is...

Brief Report: Is Perceived Motor Competence a Constraint in Children's Action Planning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gabbard, Carl; Cacola, Priscila; Cordova, Alberto

2009-01-01

A form of action representation of developmental interest is "reach estimation"--the perceptual and cognitive judgment of whether an object is within or out of reach. A common observation among children is overestimation, which, speculatively, has been linked to perceived motor competence (PMC). The authors examined the PMC effect on…

SU-F-T-193: Evaluation of a GPU-Based Fast Monte Carlo Code for Proton Therapy Biological Optimization

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

Taleei, R; Qin, N; Jiang, S

2016-06-15

Purpose: Biological treatment plan optimization is of great interest for proton therapy. It requires extensive Monte Carlo (MC) simulations to compute physical dose and biological quantities. Recently, a gPMC package was developed for rapid MC dose calculations on a GPU platform. This work investigated its suitability for proton therapy biological optimization in terms of accuracy and efficiency. Methods: We performed simulations of a proton pencil beam with energies of 75, 150 and 225 MeV in a homogeneous water phantom using gPMC and FLUKA. Physical dose and energy spectra for each ion type on the central beam axis were scored. Relativemore » Biological Effectiveness (RBE) was calculated using repair-misrepair-fixation model. Microdosimetry calculations were performed using Monte Carlo Damage Simulation (MCDS). Results: Ranges computed by the two codes agreed within 1 mm. Physical dose difference was less than 2.5 % at the Bragg peak. RBE-weighted dose agreed within 5 % at the Bragg peak. Differences in microdosimetric quantities such as dose average lineal energy transfer and specific energy were < 10%. The simulation time per source particle with FLUKA was 0.0018 sec, while gPMC was ∼ 600 times faster. Conclusion: Physical dose computed by FLUKA and gPMC were in a good agreement. The RBE differences along the central axis were small, and RBE-weighted dose difference was found to be acceptable. The combined accuracy and efficiency makes gPMC suitable for proton therapy biological optimization.« less

Plasmid integration in a wide range of bacteria mediated by the integrase of Lactobacillus delbrueckii bacteriophage mv4.

PubMed Central

Auvray, F; Coddeville, M; Ritzenthaler, P; Dupont, L

1997-01-01

Bacteriophage mv4 is a temperate phage infecting Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. During lysogenization, the phage integrates its genome into the host chromosome at the 3' end of a tRNA(Ser) gene through a site-specific recombination process (L. Dupont et al., J. Bacteriol., 177:586-595, 1995). A nonreplicative vector (pMC1) based on the mv4 integrative elements (attP site and integrase-coding int gene) is able to integrate into the chromosome of a wide range of bacterial hosts, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei (two strains), Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Integrative recombination of pMC1 into the chromosomes of all of these species is dependent on the int gene product and occurs specifically at the pMC1 attP site. The isolation and sequencing of pMC1 integration sites from these bacteria showed that in lactobacilli, pMC1 integrated into the conserved tRNA(Ser) gene. In the other bacterial species where this tRNA gene is less or not conserved; secondary integration sites either in potential protein-coding regions or in intergenic DNA were used. A consensus sequence was deduced from the analysis of the different integration sites. The comparison of these sequences demonstrated the flexibility of the integrase for the bacterial integration site and suggested the importance of the trinucleotide CCT at the 5' end of the core in the strand exchange reaction. PMID:9068626

Long-term implantation of deep brain stimulation electrodes in the pontine micturition centre of the Göttingen minipig.

PubMed

Jensen, Kristian N; Deding, Dorthe; Sørensen, Jens Christian; Bjarkam, Carsten R

2009-07-01

To implant deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes in the porcine pontine micturition centre (PMC) in order to establish a large animal model of PMC-DBS. Brain stems from four Göttingen minipigs were sectioned coronally into 40-mum-thick histological sections and stained with Nissl, auto-metallographic myelin stain, tyrosine hydroxylase and corticotrophin-releasing factor immunohistochemistry in order to identify the porcine PMC. DBS electrodes were then stereotaxically implanted on the right side into the PMC in four Göttingen minipigs, and the bladder response to electrical stimulation was evaluated by subsequent cystometry performed immediately after the operation and several weeks later. A paired CRF-dense area homologous to the PMC in other species was encountered in the rostral pontine tegmentum medial to the locus coeruleus and ventral to the floor of the fourth ventricle. Electrical stimulation of the CRF-dense area resulted in an increased detrusor pressure followed by visible voiding in some instances. The pigs were allowed to survive between 14 and 55 days, and electrical stimulation resulting in an increased detrusor pressure was performed on more than one occasion without affecting consciousness or general thriving. None of the pigs developed postoperative infections or died prematurely. DBS electrodes can be implanted for several weeks in the identified CRF-dense area resulting in a useful large animal model for basic research on micturition and the future clinical use of this treatment modality in neurogenic supra-pontine voiding disorders.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the left premotor/dorsolateral prefrontal cortex does not have analgesic effect on central poststroke pain.

PubMed

de Oliveira, Rogério Adas Ayres; de Andrade, Daniel Ciampi; Mendonça, Melina; Barros, Rafael; Luvisoto, Tatiana; Myczkowski, Martin Luiz; Marcolin, Marco Antonio; Teixeira, Manoel Jacobsen

2014-12-01

Central poststroke pain (CPSP) is caused by an encephalic vascular lesion of the somatosensory pathways and is commonly refractory to current pharmacologic treatments. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the premotor cortex/dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PMC/DLPFC) can change thermal pain threshold toward analgesia in healthy subjects and has analgesic effects in acute postoperative pain as well as in fibromyalgia patients. However, its effect on neuropathic pain and in CPSP, in particular, has not been assessed. The aim of this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of PMC/DLPFC rTMS in CPSP patients. Patients were randomized into 2 groups, active (a-) rTMS and sham (s-) rTMS, and were treated with 10 daily sessions of rTMS over the left PMC/DLPFC (10 Hz, 1,250 pulses/d). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, during the stimulation phase, and at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after the last stimulation. The main outcome was pain intensity changes measured by the visual analog scale on the last stimulation day compared to baseline. Interim analysis was scheduled when the first half of the patients completed the study. The study was terminated because of a significant lack of efficacy of the active arm after 21 patients completed the whole treatment and follow-up phases. rTMS of the left PMC/DLPFC did not improve pain in CPSP. The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the analgesic effects of rTMS to the PMC/DLPFC in CPSP patients. An interim analysis showed a consistent lack of analgesic effect, and the study was terminated. rTMS of the PMC/DLPFC is not effective in relieving CPSP. Copyright © 2014 American Pain Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fatigue Damage Mechanisms in Advanced Hybrid Titanium Composite Laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, W. Steven; Rhymer, Donald W.; St.Clair, Terry L. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Hybrid Titanium Composite Laminates (HTCL) are a type of hybrid composite laminate with promise for high-speed aerospace applications, specifically designed for improved damage tolerance and strength at high-temperature (350 F, 177 C). However, in previous testing, HTCL demonstrated a propensity to excessive delamination at the titanium/PMC interface following titanium cracking. An advanced HTCL has been constructed with an emphasis on strengthening this interface, combining a PETI-5/IM7 PMC with Ti-15-3 foils prepared with an alkaline-perborate surface treatment. This paper discusses how the fatigue capabilities of the "advanced" HTCL compare to the first generation HTCL which was not modified for interface optimization, in both tension-tension (R = 0.1) and tension-compression (R=-0.2). The advanced HTCL under did not demonstrate a significant improvement in fatigue life, in either tension-tension or tension-compression loading. However, the advanced HTCL proved much more damage tolerant. The R = 0.1 tests revealed the advanced HTCL to increase the fatigue life following initial titanium ply damage up to 10X that of the initial HTCL at certain stress levels. The damage progression following the initial ply damage demonstrated the effect of the strengthened PMC/titanium interface. Acetate film replication of the advanced HTCL edges showed a propensity for some fibers in the adjacent PMC layers to fail at the point of titanium crack formation, suppressing delamination at the Ti/PMC interface. The inspection of failure surfaces validated these findings, revealing PMC fibers bonded to the majority of the titanium surfaces. Tension compression fatigue (R = -0.2) demonstrated the same trends in cycles between initial damage and failure, damage progression, and failure surfaces. Moreover, in possessing a higher resistance to delamination, the advanced HTCL did not exhibit buckling following initial titanium ply cracking under compression unlike the initial HTCL.

The dynamics and regulation of mesenchymal cell fusion in the sea urchin embryo.

PubMed

Hodor, P G; Ettensohn, C A

1998-07-01

Cell-cell fusion occurs in a wide variety of developmental contexts, yet the mechanisms involved are just beginning to be elucidated. In the sea urchin embryo, primary mesenchyme cells (PMCs) fuse to form syncytial filopodial cables within which skeletal spicules are deposited. Taking advantage of the optical transparency and ease of micromanipulation of sea urchin embryos, we have developed methods for directly observing the dynamics of PMC fusion in vivo. A fraction of the PMCs was labeled with fluorescent dextran and transfer of the dye to unlabeled PMCs was followed by time-lapse, fluorescence microscopy. Fusion was first detected about 2 h after PMCs began to migrate within the blastocoel. Fusion proceeded in parallel with the assembly of the PMC ring pattern and was complete by the early gastrula stage. The formation of a single, extensive PMC syncytium was confirmed by DiI labeling of fixed embryos. When single micromeres were isolated and cultured in unsupplemented seawater, they divided and their progeny underwent fusion. This shows that the capacity to fuse is autonomously programmed in the micromere-PMC lineage by the 16-cell stage. PMC transplantations at late embryonic stages revealed that these cells remain fusion-competent long after their fusion is complete. At late stages, other mesenchyme cells (blastocoelar cells) are also present within the blastocoel and are migrating and fusing with one another. Fusion-competent blastocoelar cells and PMCs come into contact but do not fuse with one another, indicating that these two cell types fuse by distinct mechanisms. When secondary mesenchyme cells convert to a skeletogenic fate they alter their fusogenic properties and join the PMC syncytium, as shown by transfer of fluorescent dextran. Our analysis has provided a detailed picture of the cellular basis and regulation of mesodermal cell fusion and has important implications regarding molecular mechanisms that underlie fusion.

Developments toward more accurate molecular modeling of liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, Tom J.

2000-12-01

The general goal of this research has been to improve upon existing combined quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methodologies. Error weighting functions have been introduced into the perturbative Monte Carlo (PMC) method for use with QM/MM. The PMC approach, introduced earlier, provides a means to reduce the number of full self-consistent field (SCF) calculations in simulations using the QM/MM potential by evoking perturbation theory to calculate energy changes due to displacements of a MM molecule. This will allow the ab initio QM/MM approach to be applied to systems that require more advanced, computationally demanding treatments of the QM and/or MM regions. Efforts have also been made to improve the accuracy of the representation of the solvent molecules usually represented by MM force fields. Results from an investigation of the applicability of the embedded density functional theory (EDFT) for studying physical properties of solutions will be presented. In this approach, the solute wavefunction is solved self- consistently in the field of individually frozen electron-density solvent molecules. To test its accuracy, the potential curves for interactions between Li+, Cl- and H2O with a single frozen-density H 2O molecule in different orientations have been calculated. With the development of the more sophisticated effective fragment potential (EFP) representation of solvent molecules, a QM/EFP technique was created. This hybrid QM/EFP approach was used to investigate the solvation of Li + by small clusters of water, as a test case for larger ionic dusters. The EFP appears to provide an accurate representation of the strong interactions that exist between Li+ and H2O. With the QM/EFP methodology comes an increased computational expense, resulting in an even greater need to rely on the PMC approach. However, while including the PMC into the hybrid QM/EFP technique, it was discovered that the previous implementation of the PMC was done incorrectly, invalidating earlier test results. The PMC implementation was therefore reworked, and tests were performed to investigate the methods usefulness in reducing the computational load of these types of simulations. The results that were obtained while studying F-(H2O) and F-(H 2O)2 show that PMC can be used cautiously to increase computational efficiency.

Split-dose administration of a dual-action, low-volume bowel cleanser for colonoscopy: the SEE CLEAR I study.

PubMed

Rex, Douglas K; Katz, Philip O; Bertiger, Gerald; Vanner, Stephen; Hookey, Lawrence C; Alderfer, Vivian; Joseph, Raymond E

2013-07-01

New bowel cleansers for colonoscopy that lead to improved efficacy, safety, and tolerability are needed. This study evaluated a nonphosphate, dual-action, low-volume, orange-flavored preparation containing sodium picosulfate and magnesium citrate (P/MC). Multicenter, assessor-blinded, randomized, noninferiority study. University hospitals, academic medical centers, and private clinics across the United States. Adults preparing for colonoscopy. P/MC versus 2 L of polyethylene glycol solution (2L PEG-3350) and two 5-mg bisacodyl tablets. This phase 3 study investigated the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of split-dose administration of P/MC versus day-before dosing of 2L PEG-3350 and two 5-mg bisacodyl tablets (SEE CLEAR I study). Efficacy was evaluated by using the Aronchick and Ottawa scales; noninferiority and superiority analyses were performed. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events (AEs). Tolerability was measured via a patient questionnaire. The intent-to-treat population consisted of 601 patients who self-administered P/MC (n = 304) or 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (n = 297). P/MC was superior to 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets in overall colon cleansing (84.2% vs 74.4%; 1-sided 97.5% confidence interval [CI], 3.4) (Aronchick scores of excellent or good) and in cleansing of the ascending (89.5% vs 78.8%; 1-sided 97.5% CI, 4.9), mid (transverse and descending) (92.4% vs 85.9%; 1-sided 97.5% CI, 1.6), and rectosigmoid (92.4% vs 87.2%; 1-sided 97.5% CI, 0.4) segments of the colon (Ottawa scores of excellent, good, or fair). Commonly reported AEs related to the bowel preparations were nausea, vomiting, headache, and chills. Patient-reported tolerability, including ease of consumption and taste, was significantly higher for P/MC than 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets (P < .0001). Because of differences in administration and volume of the bowel preparations, the study was designed to be a single-assessor, blinded study. The bowel-cleansing effects and patient acceptability of split-dose P/MC were superior to day-before dosing with 2L PEG-3350 and bisacodyl tablets. Copyright © 2013 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

The cost-effectiveness of alternative vaccination strategies for polyvalent meningococcal vaccines in Burkina Faso: A transmission dynamic modeling study.

PubMed

Yaesoubi, Reza; Trotter, Caroline; Colijn, Caroline; Yaesoubi, Maziar; Colombini, Anaïs; Resch, Stephen; Kristiansen, Paul A; LaForce, F Marc; Cohen, Ted

2018-01-01

The introduction of a conjugate vaccine for serogroup A Neisseria meningitidis has dramatically reduced disease in the African meningitis belt. In this context, important questions remain about the performance of different vaccine policies that target remaining serogroups. Here, we estimate the health impact and cost associated with several alternative vaccination policies in Burkina Faso. We developed and calibrated a mathematical model of meningococcal transmission to project the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted and costs associated with the current Base policy (serogroup A conjugate vaccination at 9 months, as part of the Expanded Program on Immunization [EPI], plus district-specific reactive vaccination campaigns using polyvalent meningococcal polysaccharide [PMP] vaccine in response to outbreaks) and three alternative policies: (1) Base Prime: novel polyvalent meningococcal conjugate (PMC) vaccine replaces the serogroup A conjugate in EPI and is also used in reactive campaigns; (2) Prevention 1: PMC used in EPI and in a nationwide catch-up campaign for 1-18-year-olds; and (3) Prevention 2: Prevention 1, except the nationwide campaign includes individuals up to 29 years old. Over a 30-year simulation period, Prevention 2 would avert 78% of the meningococcal cases (95% prediction interval: 63%-90%) expected under the Base policy if serogroup A is not replaced by remaining serogroups after elimination, and would avert 87% (77%-93%) of meningococcal cases if complete strain replacement occurs. Compared to the Base policy and at the PMC vaccine price of US$4 per dose, strategies that use PMC vaccine (i.e., Base Prime and Preventions 1 and 2) are expected to be cost saving if strain replacement occurs, and would cost US$51 (-US$236, US$490), US$188 (-US$97, US$626), and US$246 (-US$53, US$703) per DALY averted, respectively, if strain replacement does not occur. An important potential limitation of our study is the simplifying assumption that all circulating meningococcal serogroups can be aggregated into a single group; while this assumption is critical for model tractability, it would compromise the insights derived from our model if the effectiveness of the vaccine differs markedly between serogroups or if there are complex between-serogroup interactions that influence the frequency and magnitude of future meningitis epidemics. Our results suggest that a vaccination strategy that includes a catch-up nationwide immunization campaign in young adults with a PMC vaccine and the addition of this new vaccine into EPI is cost-effective and would avert a substantial portion of meningococcal cases expected under the current World Health Organization-recommended strategy of reactive vaccination. This analysis is limited to Burkina Faso and assumes that polyvalent vaccines offer equal protection against all meningococcal serogroups; further studies are needed to evaluate the robustness of this assumption and applicability for other countries in the meningitis belt.

Making limb and nadir measurements comparable: A common volume study of PMC brightness observed by Odin OSIRIS and AIM CIPS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benze, Susanne; Gumbel, Jörg; Randall, Cora E.; Karlsson, Bodil; Hultgren, Kristoffer; Lumpe, Jerry D.; Baumgarten, Gerd

2018-01-01

Combining limb and nadir satellite observations of Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMCs) has long been recognized as problematic due to differences in observation geometry, scattering conditions, and retrieval approaches. This study offers a method of comparing PMC brightness observations from the nadir-viewing Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) Cloud Imaging and Particle Size (CIPS) instrument and the limb-viewing Odin Optical Spectrograph and InfraRed Imaging System (OSIRIS). OSIRIS and CIPS measurements are made comparable by defining a common volume for overlapping OSIRIS and CIPS observations for two northern hemisphere (NH) PMC seasons: NH08 and NH09. We define a scattering intensity quantity that is suitable for either nadir or limb observations and for different scattering conditions. A known CIPS bias is applied, differences in instrument sensitivity are analyzed and taken into account, and effects of cloud inhomogeneity and common volume definition on the comparison are discussed. Not accounting for instrument sensitivity differences or inhomogeneities in the PMC field, the mean relative difference in cloud brightness (CIPS - OSIRIS) is -102 ± 55%. The differences are largest for coincidences with very inhomogeneous clouds that are dominated by pixels that CIPS reports as non-cloud points. Removing these coincidences, the mean relative difference in cloud brightness reduces to -6 ± 14%. The correlation coefficient between the CIPS and OSIRIS measurements of PMC brightness variations in space and time is remarkably high, at 0.94. Overall, the comparison shows excellent agreement despite different retrieval approaches and observation geometries.

Cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied to the left premotor cortex (PMC) stabilizes a newly learned motor sequence.

PubMed

Focke, Jan; Kemmet, Sylvia; Krause, Vanessa; Keitel, Ariane; Pollok, Bettina

2017-01-01

While the primary motor cortex (M1) is involved in the acquisition the premotor cortex (PMC) has been related to over-night consolidation of a newly learned motor skill. The present study aims at investigating the possible contribution of the left PMC for the stabilization of a motor sequence immediately after acquisition as determined by susceptibility to interference. Thirty six healthy volunteers received anodal, cathodal and sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the left PMC either immediately prior to or during training on a serial reaction time task (SRTT) with the right hand. TDCS was applied for 10min, respectively. Reaction times were measured prior to training (t1), at the end of training (t2), and after presentation of an interfering random pattern (t3). Beyond interference from learning, the random pattern served as control condition in order to estimate general effects of tDCS on reaction times. TDCS applied during SRTT training did not result in any significant effects neither on acquisition nor on susceptibility to interference. In contrast to this, tDCS prior to SRTT training yielded an unspecific facilitation of reaction times at t2 independent of tDCS polarity. At t3, reduced susceptibility to interference was found following cathodal stimulation. The results suggest the involvement of the PMC in early consolidation and reveal a piece of evidence for the hypothesis that behavioral tDCS effects vary with the activation state of the stimulated area. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Metabolic Remodeling Precedes Mitochondrial Outer Membrane Permeabilization in Human Glioma Xenograft Cells

PubMed Central

Ponnala, Shivani; Chetty, Chandramu; Veeravalli, Krishna Kumar; Dinh, Dzung H.; Klopfenstein, Jeffrey D.; Rao, Jasti S.

2011-01-01

Glioma cancer cells adapt to changing microenvironment and shift from mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis for their metabolic needs irrespective of oxygen availability. In the present study, we show that silencing MMP-9 in combination with uPAR/cathepsin B switch glioma cells glycolytic metabolism to oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) to predispose glioma cells to mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. shRNA for MMP-9 and uPAR (pMU) as well as shRNA for MMP-9 and cathepsin B (pMC) activated complexes of mitochondria involved in OXPHOS and inhibited glycolytic hexokinase expression. The decreased interaction of hexokinase 2 with mitochondria in the treated cells indicated the inhibition of glycolysis activation. Overexpression of Akt reversed the pMU- and pMC-mediated glycolysis to OXPHOS switch. OXPHOS un-coupler oligomycin A altered the expression levels of the Bcl-2 family of proteins; treatment with pMU or pMC reversed this effect and induced mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. In addition, our results show changes in mitochondrial pore transition to release cytochrome c due to change in the VDAC-Bcl-XL and BAX-BAK interaction with pMU and pMC treatments. Taken together, our results suggest that pMU and pMC treatments switch glioma cells from glycolytic to OXPHOS pathway through an inhibitory effect on Akt, ROS induction, and an increase of cytosolic cytochrome c accumulation. These results demonstrate the potential of pMU and pMC as therapeutic candidates for treatment of glioma. PMID:22076676

Metabolic remodeling precedes mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization in human glioma xenograft cells.

PubMed

Ponnala, Shivani; Chetty, Chandramu; Veeravalli, Krishna Kumar; Dinh, Dzung H; Klopfenstein, Jeffrey D; Rao, Jasti S

2012-02-01

Glioma cancer cells adapt to changing microenvironment and shift from mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis for their metabolic needs irrespective of oxygen availability. In the present study, we show that silencing MMP-9 in combination with uPAR/cathepsin B switch the glycolytic metabolism of glioma cells to oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) to predispose glioma cells to mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. shRNA for MMP-9 and uPAR (pMU) as well as shRNA for MMP-9 and cathepsin B (pMC) activated complexes of mitochondria involved in OXPHOS and inhibited glycolytic hexokinase expression. The decreased interaction of hexokinase 2 with mitochondria in the treated cells indicated the inhibition of glycolysis activation. Overexpression of Akt reversed the pMU- and pMC-mediated OXPHOS to glycolysis switch. The OXPHOS un-coupler oligomycin A altered the expression levels of the Bcl-2 family of proteins; treatment with pMU or pMC reversed this effect and induced mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. In addition, our results show changes in mitochondrial pore transition to release cytochrome c due to changes in the VDAC-Bcl-XL and BAX-BAK interaction with pMU and pMC treatments. Taken together, our results suggest that pMU and pMC treatments switch glioma cells from the glycolytic to the OXPHOS pathway through an inhibitory effect on Akt, ROS induction and an increase of cytosolic cytochrome c accumulation. These results demonstrate the potential of pMU and pMC as therapeutic candidates for the treatment of glioma.

Neural signature of coma revealed by posteromedial cortex connection density analysis.

PubMed

Malagurski, Briguita; Péran, Patrice; Sarton, Benjamine; Riu, Beatrice; Gonzalez, Leslie; Vardon-Bounes, Fanny; Seguin, Thierry; Geeraerts, Thomas; Fourcade, Olivier; de Pasquale, Francesco; Silva, Stein

2017-01-01

Posteromedial cortex (PMC) is a highly segregated and dynamic core, which appears to play a critical role in internally/externally directed cognitive processes, including conscious awareness. Nevertheless, neuroimaging studies on acquired disorders of consciousness, have traditionally explored PMC as a homogenous and indivisible structure. We suggest that a fine-grained description of intrinsic PMC topology during coma, could expand our understanding about how this cortical hub contributes to consciousness generation and maintain, and could permit the identification of specific markers related to brain injury mechanism and useful for neurological prognostication. To explore this, we used a recently developed voxel-based unbiased approach, named functional connectivity density (CD). We compared 27 comatose patients (15 traumatic and 12 anoxic), to 14 age-matched healthy controls. The patients' outcome was assessed 3 months later using Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R). A complex pattern of decreased and increased connections was observed, suggesting a network imbalance between internal/external processing systems, within PMC during coma. The number of PMC voxels with hypo-CD positive correlation showed a significant negative association with the CRS-R score, notwithstanding aetiology. Traumatic injury specifically appeared to be associated with a greater prevalence of hyper-connected (negative correlation) voxels, which was inversely associated with patient neurological outcome. A logistic regression model using the number of hypo-CD positive and hyper-CD negative correlations, accurately permitted patient's outcome prediction (AUC = 0.906, 95%IC = 0.795-1). These points might reflect adaptive plasticity mechanism and pave the way for innovative prognosis and therapeutics methods.

Rewiring the Brain: Potential Role of the Premotor Cortex in Motor Control, Learning, and Recovery of Function Following Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Kantak, Shailesh S.; Stinear, James W.; Buch, Ethan R.; Cohen, Leonardo G.

2016-01-01

The brain is a plastic organ with a capability to reorganize in response to behavior and/or injury. Following injury to the motor cortex or emergent corticospinal pathways, recovery of function depends on the capacity of surviving anatomical resources to recover and repair in response to task-specific training. One such area implicated in poststroke reorganization to promote recovery of upper extremity recovery is the premotor cortex (PMC). This study reviews the role of distinct subdivisions of PMC: dorsal (PMd) and ventral (PMv) premotor cortices as critical anatomical and physiological nodes within the neural networks for the control and learning of goal-oriented reach and grasp actions in healthy individuals and individuals with stroke. Based on evidence emerging from studies of intrinsic and extrinsic connectivity, transcranial magnetic stimulation, functional neuroimaging, and experimental studies in animals and humans, the authors propose 2 distinct patterns of reorganization that differentially engage ipsilesional and contralesional PMC. Research directions that may offer further insights into the role of PMC in motor control, learning, and poststroke recovery are also proposed. This research may facilitate neuroplasticity for maximal recovery of function following brain injury. PMID:21926382

Brain structure links everyday creativity to creative achievement.

PubMed

Zhu, Wenfeng; Chen, Qunlin; Tang, Chaoying; Cao, Guikang; Hou, Yuling; Qiu, Jiang

2016-03-01

Although creativity is commonly considered to be a cornerstone of human progress and vital to all realms of our lives, its neural basis remains elusive, partly due to the different tasks and measurement methods applied in research. In particular, the neural correlates of everyday creativity that can be experienced by everyone, to some extent, are still unexplored. The present study was designed to investigate the brain structure underlying individual differences in everyday creativity, as measured by the Creative Behavioral Inventory (CBI) (N=163). The results revealed that more creative activities were significantly and positively associated with larger gray matter volume (GMV) in the regional premotor cortex (PMC), which is a motor planning area involved in the creation and selection of novel actions and inhibition. In addition, the gray volume of the PMC had a significant positive relationship with creative achievement and Art scores, which supports the notion that training and practice may induce changes in brain structures. These results indicate that everyday creativity is linked to the PMC and that PMC volume can predict creative achievement, supporting the view that motor planning may play a crucial role in creative behavior. Published by Elsevier Inc.

A feasibility study of a microgravity enhancement system for Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Diamond, Preston S.; Tolson, Robert H.

1993-01-01

The current low frequency microgravity requirements for Space Station Freedom (SSF) call for a level of less than 1 micro-g over 50 percent of all the laboratory racks for continuous periods of 30 days for at least 180 days per year. While this requirement is attainable for some of the laboratory modules for the Permanently Manned Configuration (PMC), it can not be met for the Man-Tended Configuration (MTC). In addition, many experiments would prefer even lower acceleration levels. To improve the microgravity environment, the Microgravity Enhancement System (MESYS) will apply a continuous thrust to SSF, to negate the disturbing gravity gradient and drag forces. The MESYS consists of a sensor, throttle-able thrusters and a control system. Both a proof mass system and accelerometer were evaluated for use as the sensor. The net result of the MESYS will be to shift the microgravity contours from the center of mass to a chosen location. Results indicate the MESYS is not feasible for MTC since it will require 5,073 kg of hydrazine fuel and 7,660 watts of power for 30 days of operation during average atmospheric conditions. For PMC, the MESYS is much more practical since only 4,008 kg of fuel and 5,640 watts of power are required.

Erosion Coatings for High-Temperature Polymer Composites: A Collaborative Project With Allison Advanced Development Company

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutter, James K.

2000-01-01

The advantages of replacing metals in aircraft turbine engines with high-temperature polymer matrix composites (PMC's) include weight savings accompanied by strength improvements, reduced part count, and lower manufacturing costs. Successfully integrating high-temperature PMC's into turbine engines requires several long-term characteristics. Resistance to surface erosion is one rarely reported property of PMC's in engine applications because PMC's are generally softer than metals and their erosion resistance suffers. Airflow rates in stationary turbine engine components typically exceed 2.3 kg/sec at elevated temperatures and pressures. In engine applications, as shown in the following photos, the survivability of PMC components is clearly a concern, especially when engine and component life-cycle requirements become longer. Although very few publications regarding the performance of erosion coatings on PMC's are available particularly in high-temperature applications the use of erosion-resistant coatings to significantly reduce wear on metallic substrates is well documented. In this study initiated by the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field, a low-cost (less than $140/kg) graphite-fiber-reinforced T650 35/PMR 15 sheet-molding compound was investigated with various coatings. This sheet-molding compound has been compression molded into many structurally complicated components, such as shrouds for gas turbine inlet housings and gearboxes. Erosion coatings developed for PMC s in this study consisted of a two-layered system: a bondcoat sprayed onto a cleaned PMC surface, followed by an erosion-resistant, hard topcoat sprayed onto the bondcoat as shown in following photomicrograph. Six erosion coating systems were evaluated for their ability to withstand harsh thermal cycles, erosion resistance (ASTM G76 83 "Standard Practice for Conducting Erosion Tests by Solid Particle Impingement Using Gas Jets") using Al2O3, and adhesion to the graphite fiber polyimide composite (ASTM D 4541 95 "Pull Off Strength of Coatings"). Glenn and Allison Advanced Development Company collaborated to optimize erosion coatings for gas turbine fan and compressor applications. All the coating systems survived aggressive thermal cycling without spalling. During erosion tests (see the final photo), the most promising coating systems tested had Cr3C2-NiCr and WC-Co as the hard topcoats. In all cases, these coating systems performed significantly better than that with a TiN hard topcoat. When material depth (thickness) loss is considered, the Cr3C2-NiCr and WC-Co coating systems provided, on average, an erosion resistance 8.5 times greater than that for the uncoated PMR 15/T650 35 composite. Similarly, Cr3C2-NiCr and WC-Co coating systems adhered to the PMC substrate during tensile tests significantly better than systems containing a TiN topcoat. Differences in topcoats of Cr3C2-NiCr and WC-Co were determined by considering issues such as cost and environmental impact. The preferred erosion-resistant coating system for PMR 15/T650 35 has WC-Co as the hard topcoat. This system provides the following benefits in comparison to the coating system with Cr3C2-NiCr topcoat: lower powder material cost (15 to 20 percent), environmentally friendly materials (Cr3C2-NiCr is hazardous), and higher deposition yield (10 to 15 percent), which results in less waste.

a Comparison of δ13C & pMC Values for Ten Cretaceous-Jurassic Dinosaur Bones from Texas to Alaska USA, China and Europe with that of Coal and Diamonds Presented in the 2003 Agu Meeting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, H. R.; Dennett, R.; de Pontcharra, J.; Giertych, M.; Kline, O.; van Oosterwych, M. C.; Owen, H.; Taylor, J. D.

2014-12-01

There is convincing evidence that soft tissue and other biomolecules can survive long periods of fossilization by their interaction with blood iron and/or carbonate absorption. Here are presented the results of investigations showing that ancient biomolecules and their decay products contain significantly more pMC's (% modern 14C) than diamond and coal presented during a poster session held at the AGU 2003 SF convention. The title was: The Enigma of the Ubiquity of 14C in organic samples older than 100,000 K. The given range for five diamonds from Botswana and South Africa ranged from 0.096 to 0.146 pMC. Ten coal specimens from the United States from the Eocene to Pennsylvanian geologic interval yielded 0.1 to 0.46 pMC's. In our extensive field and lab study ten dinosaurs from Texas to Alaska, and China yielded much higher pMC's of 0.76 to 5.59 after pretreatment to remove modern contaminants. When 2g of a Belgium Mosasaur from Europe was pretreated to remove contaminants the pMC was 4.68 or 24,600 RC years on Lund Un AMS in Sweden (Lindgren et al. 2011, PloS ONE, page 9). The endogenous sources of dinosaur pMC's were further enhanced by the δ13C range of -20.1 to -23.8 for collagen, 16.6-28.4 for bulk organic and -3.1 to -9.1 for CO3 fractions. The δ13C values compare favorably to δ13C values of -23 to -27 in a similar study of dinosaur δ13C values from the Judith River formation in Alberta, Canada that (Ostrom et al. 1993, Geology, v. 21). . Diamonds from South America (Taylor-Southon, Nuclear Instruments 2007 ) yielded ages of 66,000 to 80,000 years leaving little doubt that at least the dinosaur ages of 22,020 ± 50 to 39,230 ± 140 were not machine error or a result of contamination anymore than the coal samples. This data explains more clearly why such biomolecules have persisted and therefore should not be ignored as the implications are of utmost importance to science and humanity. Thus the experimental results presented here demonstrate the need for systematic 14C-dating of samples from different parts of the entire geologic column to discover patterns of 14C retention and to arrive at a coherent explanation of the results.

Validation of a GPU-based Monte Carlo code (gPMC) for proton radiation therapy: clinical cases study.

PubMed

Giantsoudi, Drosoula; Schuemann, Jan; Jia, Xun; Dowdell, Stephen; Jiang, Steve; Paganetti, Harald

2015-03-21

Monte Carlo (MC) methods are recognized as the gold-standard for dose calculation, however they have not replaced analytical methods up to now due to their lengthy calculation times. GPU-based applications allow MC dose calculations to be performed on time scales comparable to conventional analytical algorithms. This study focuses on validating our GPU-based MC code for proton dose calculation (gPMC) using an experimentally validated multi-purpose MC code (TOPAS) and compare their performance for clinical patient cases. Clinical cases from five treatment sites were selected covering the full range from very homogeneous patient geometries (liver) to patients with high geometrical complexity (air cavities and density heterogeneities in head-and-neck and lung patients) and from short beam range (breast) to large beam range (prostate). Both gPMC and TOPAS were used to calculate 3D dose distributions for all patients. Comparisons were performed based on target coverage indices (mean dose, V95, D98, D50, D02) and gamma index distributions. Dosimetric indices differed less than 2% between TOPAS and gPMC dose distributions for most cases. Gamma index analysis with 1%/1 mm criterion resulted in a passing rate of more than 94% of all patient voxels receiving more than 10% of the mean target dose, for all patients except for prostate cases. Although clinically insignificant, gPMC resulted in systematic underestimation of target dose for prostate cases by 1-2% compared to TOPAS. Correspondingly the gamma index analysis with 1%/1 mm criterion failed for most beams for this site, while for 2%/1 mm criterion passing rates of more than 94.6% of all patient voxels were observed. For the same initial number of simulated particles, calculation time for a single beam for a typical head and neck patient plan decreased from 4 CPU hours per million particles (2.8-2.9 GHz Intel X5600) for TOPAS to 2.4 s per million particles (NVIDIA TESLA C2075) for gPMC. Excellent agreement was demonstrated between our fast GPU-based MC code (gPMC) and a previously extensively validated multi-purpose MC code (TOPAS) for a comprehensive set of clinical patient cases. This shows that MC dose calculations in proton therapy can be performed on time scales comparable to analytical algorithms with accuracy comparable to state-of-the-art CPU-based MC codes.

Mechanical Properties and Fatigue Behavior of Unitized Composite Airframe Structures at Elevated Temperature

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

investigated. The unitized composite consisted of a polymer matrix composite (PMC) co-cured with a ceramic matrix composite (CMC). The PMC portion...ply non- crimp 3D orthogonal weave composite consisting of a ceramic matrix reinforced with glass fibers. In order to assess the performance and...2.3 Ceramic Matrix Composites ...................................................................................5  2.4 2D vs 3D Reinforcement

Beyond feast and famine: Selecting a PHA accumulating photosynthetic mixed culture in a permanent feast regime.

PubMed

Fradinho, J C; Reis, M A M; Oehmen, A

2016-11-15

Currently, the feast and famine (FF) regime is the most widely applied strategy to select for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) accumulating organisms in PHA production systems with mixed microbial cultures. As an alternative to the FF regime, this work studied the possibility of utilizing a permanent feast regime as a new operational strategy to select for PHA accumulating photosynthetic mixed cultures (PMCs). The PMC was selected in an illuminated environment and acetate was constantly present in the mixed liquor to guarantee a feast regime. During steady-state operation, the culture presented low PHA accumulation levels, likely due to low light availability, which resulted in most of the acetate being used for biomass growth (Y x/s of 0.64 ± 0.18 Cmol X/Cmol Acet). To confirm the light limitation on the PMC, SBR tests were conducted with higher light availability, at similar levels as would be expectable from natural sunlight. In this case, the Y x/s reduced to 0.11 ± 0.01 Cmol X/Cmol Acet and the culture presented a PHB production yield on acetate of 0.67 ± 0.01 Cmol PHB/Cmol Acet, leading to a maximum PHB content of 60%. Unlike other studied PMCs, the PMC was capable of simultaneous growth and PHB accumulation continuously throughout the cycle. Thus far, 60% PHA content is the maximum value ever reported for a PMC, a result that prospects the utilization of feast regimes as an alternative strategy for the selection of PHA accumulating PMCs. Furthermore, the PMC also presented high phosphate removal rates, delivering an effluent that complies with phosphate discharge limits. The advantages of selecting PMCs under a permanent feast regime are that no aeration inputs are required; it allows higher PHA contents and phosphate removal rates in comparison to FF-operated PMC systems; and it represents a novel means of integrating wastewater treatment with resource recovery in the form of PHA. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of in vitro serial antibiotic elution from meropenem-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate beads after ethylene oxide gas and autoclave sterilization.

PubMed

Báez, L A; Langston, C; Givaruangsawat, S; McLaughlin, R

2011-01-01

To determine the elution properties of meropenem and to compare the elutions of meropenem-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads without sterilization (P-M-C) to those sterilized with steam (P-M-A) and ethylene oxide gas (P-M-EO). A commercial bead mould was used to produce four groups of beads: one group without antibiotic (negative control), and three groups of meropenem-impregnated beads: P-M-C, P-M-A, and P-M-EO. The beads were placed in a phosphate buffered solution and eluent samples were collected. Concentrations of the antibiotic in eluent samples from the two sterilized groups and the control beads were determined using a microbiological assay at 1, 3, 6 and 12 hours and at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, and 30 days. The microbiological assay resulted in no zone of inhibition at all time periods for the P-M-A samples and the samples of PMMA without antimicrobial. The meropenem concentration on the eluent remained above 4 mcg/ml for 15 days in the P-M-C group and until day 18 for P-M-EO group. There was no statistical difference in AUC0-∞ (p<0.318), however significance did occur for MRT (p<0.005) when comparing P-M-C and P-M-EO with the later being higher. The meropenem incorporated in the PMMA beads eluted effectively and gradually decreased after the 24 hour peak, but remained above the concentration level of 4 mcg/ml for 15 days in the P-M-C group and until day 18 for P-M-EO group. Ethylene oxide does not adversely affect meropenem's elution from PMMA beads.

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

Chang Jenghwa; Kowalski, Alex; Hou, Bob

The purpose of this work was to study the feasibility of incorporating functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) information for intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment planning of brain tumors. Three glioma patients were retrospectively replanned for radiotherapy (RT) with additional fMRI information. The fMRI of each patient was acquired using a bilateral finger-tapping paradigm with a gradient echo EPI (Echo Planer Imaging) sequence. The fMRI data were processed using the Analysis of Functional Neuroimaging (AFNI) software package for determining activation volumes, and the volumes were fused with the simulation computed tomography (CT) scan. The actived pixels in left and right primarymore » motor cortexes (PMCs) were contoured as critical structures for IMRT planning. The goal of replanning was to minimize the RT dose to the activation volumes in the PMC regions, while maintaining a similar coverage to the planning target volume (PTV) and keeping critical structures within accepted dose tolerance. Dose-volume histograms of the treatment plans with and without considering the fMRI information were compared. Beam angles adjustment or additional beams were needed for 2 cases to meet the planning criteria. Mean dose to the contralateral and ipsilateral PMC was significantly reduced by 66% and 55%, respectively, for 1 patient. For the other 2 patients, mean dose to contralateral PMC region was lowered by 73% and 69%. In general, IMRT optimization can reduce the RT dose to the PMC regions without compromising the PTV coverage or sparing of other critical organs. In conclusion, it is feasible to incorporate the fMRI information into the RT treatment planning. IMRT planning allows a significant reduction in RT dose to the PMC regions, especially if the region does not lie within the PTV.« less

Impaired white matter connectivity between regions containing mirror neurons, and relationship to negative symptoms and social cognition, in patients with first-episode schizophrenia.

PubMed

Saito, Yukiko; Kubicki, Marek; Koerte, Inga; Otsuka, Tatsui; Rathi, Yogesh; Pasternak, Ofer; Bouix, Sylvain; Eckbo, Ryan; Kikinis, Zora; von Hohenberg, Christian Clemm; Roppongi, Tomohide; Del Re, Elisabetta; Asami, Takeshi; Lee, Sang-Hyuk; Karmacharya, Sarina; Mesholam-Gately, Raquelle I; Seidman, Larry J; Levitt, James; McCarley, Robert W; Shenton, Martha E; Niznikiewicz, Margaret A

2018-02-01

In schizophrenia, abnormalities in structural connectivity between brain regions known to contain mirror neurons and their relationship to negative symptoms related to a domain of social cognition are not well understood. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans were acquired in 16 patients with first episode schizophrenia and 16 matched healthy controls. FA and Trace of the tracts interconnecting regions known to be rich in mirror neurons, i.e., anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), inferior parietal lobe (IPL) and premotor cortex (PMC) were evaluated. A significant group effect for Trace was observed in IPL-PMC white matter fiber tract (F (1, 28) = 7.13, p = .012), as well as in the PMC-ACC white matter fiber tract (F (1, 28) = 4.64, p = .040). There were no group differences in FA. In addition, patients with schizophrenia showed a significant positive correlation between the Trace of the left IPL-PMC white matter fiber tract, and the Ability to Feel Intimacy and Closeness score (rho = .57, p = 0.034), and a negative correlation between the Trace of the left PMC-ACC and the Relationships with Friends and Peers score (rho = remove -.54, p = 0.049). We have demonstrated disrupted white mater microstructure within the white matter tracts subserving brain regions containing mirror neurons. We further showed that such structural disruptions might impact negative symptoms and, more specifically, contribute to the inability to feel intimacy (a measure conceptually related to theory of mind) in first episode schizophrenia. Further studies are needed to understand the potential of our results for diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic interventions.

Static impedance behavior of programmable metallization cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajabi, S.; Saremi, M.; Barnaby, H. J.; Edwards, A.; Kozicki, M. N.; Mitkova, M.; Mahalanabis, D.; Gonzalez-Velo, Y.; Mahmud, A.

2015-04-01

Programmable metallization cell (PMC) devices work by growing and dissolving a conducting metallic bridge across a chalcogenide glass (ChG) solid electrolyte, which changes the resistance of the cell. PMC operation relies on the incorporation of metal ions in the ChG films via photo-doping to lower the off-state resistance and stabilize resistive switching, and subsequent transport of these ions by electric fields induced from an externally applied bias. In this paper, the static on- and off-state resistance of a PMC device composed of a layered (Ag-rich/Ag-poor) Ge30Se70 ChG film with active Ag and inert Ni electrodes is characterized and modeled using three dimensional simulation code. Calibrating the model to experimental data enables the extraction of device parameters such as material bandgaps, workfunctions, density of states, carrier mobilities, dielectric constants, and affinities.

Role of the dorsal premotor cortex in rhythmic auditory-motor entrainment: a perturbational approach by rTMS.

PubMed

Giovannelli, Fabio; Innocenti, Iglis; Rossi, Simone; Borgheresi, Alessandra; Ragazzoni, Aldo; Zaccara, Gaetano; Viggiano, Maria Pia; Cincotta, Massimo

2014-04-01

Synchronization of body movements to an external beat is a universal human ability, which has also been recently documented in nonhuman species. The neural substrates of this rhythmic motor entrainment are still under investigation. Correlational neuroimaging data suggest an involvement of the dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC) and the supplementary motor area (SMA). In 14 healthy volunteers, we more specifically investigated the neural network underlying this phenomenon using a causal approach by an established 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) protocol, which produces a focal suppression of cortical excitability outlasting the stimulation period. Synchronization accuracy between rhythmic cues and right index finger tapping, as measured by the mean time lag (asynchrony) between motor and auditory events, was significantly affected when the right dPMC function was transiently perturbed by "off-line" focal rTMS, whereas the reproduction of the rhythmic sequence per se (inter-tap-interval) was spared. This approach affected metrical rhythms of different complexity, but not non-metrical or isochronous sequences. Conversely, no change in auditory-motor synchronization was observed with rTMS of the SMA, of the left dPMC or over a control site (midline occipital area). Our data strongly support the view that the right dPMC is crucial for rhythmic auditory-motor synchronization in humans.

Neurological and endocrine phenotypes of fragile X carrier women.

PubMed

Hall, D; Todorova-Koteva, K; Pandya, S; Bernard, B; Ouyang, B; Walsh, M; Pounardjian, T; Deburghraeve, C; Zhou, L; Losh, M; Leehey, M; Berry-Kravis, E

2016-01-01

Women who carry fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1)gene premutation expansions frequently report neurological or endocrine symptoms and prior studies have predominantly focused on questionnaire report of medical issues. Premutation carrier (PMC) women (n = 33) and non-carrier controls (n = 13) were recruited and evaluated by a neurologist, neuropsychologist, and endocrinologist. Blood and skin biopsies were collected for molecular measures. Scales for movement disorders, neuropathy, cognitive function, psychiatric symptoms, sleep, and quality of life were completed. The average age of the women was 51 years (n = 46) and average CGG repeat size was 91 ± 24.9 in the FMR1 PMC women. Seventy percent of the PMC women had an abnormal neurological examination. PMC women had significantly higher scores on the Fragile X-Associated Tremor Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS) rating scale, more neuropathy, and difficulty with tandem gait compared to controls. Central sensitivity syndromes, a neuroticism profile on the NEO Personality Profile, and sleep disorders were also prevalent. Discrepancies between subject report and examination findings were also seen. This pilot study suggests that women with the FMR1 premutation may have a phenotype that overlaps with that seen in FXTAS. Additional research with larger sample sizes is warranted to better delineate the clinical features. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Hemispheric differences in PMC altitudes observed by the AIM satellite for the 2007/2008 seasons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Russell, J. M.; Bailey, S. M.; Gordley, L. L.; Hervig, M. E.; Stevens, M. H.; Thomas, G. E.; Rong, P.

2008-05-01

The Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) mission was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 1:26:03 PDT on April 25, 2007 becoming the first satellite mission dedicated to the study of noctilucent clouds. A Pegasus XL rocket launched the satellite into a near perfect 600 km sun synchronous circular orbit providing an ideal injection for conducting AIM science studies. This paper focuses on hemispheric differences in polar mesospheric cloud (PMC) altitudes observed by the Solar Occultation For Ice Experiment (SOFIE) for the 2007 northern hemisphere season and the 2007/2008 southern hemisphere season. Results show PMC peak altitude differences of 1 km to 3 km depending on time in the season which is larger than previous ground-based and satellite results (~1 km). SOFIE data show that altitude differences are dependent on time within the season and that the differences are correlated with mesopause height. Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) temperature data measured from the TIMED satellite over the 2003 to 2007 period show that hemispheric differences in the summer mesopause height were unusually large for part of the 2007 PMC season, consistent with the 3 km height difference in PMCs during that time.

High Thermal Conductivity Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC) for Advanced Space Radiators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shin, E. Eugene; Bowman, Cheryl; Beach, Duane

2007-01-01

High temperature polymer matrix composites (PMC) reinforced with high thermal conductivity (approx. 1000 W/mK) pitch-based carbon fibers are evaluated for a facesheet/fin structure of large space radiator systems. Significant weight reductions along with improved thermal performance, structural integrity and space durability toward its metallic counterparts were envisioned. Candidate commercial resin systems including Cyanate Esters, BMIs, and polyimide were selected based on thermal capabilities and processability. PMC laminates were designed to match the thermal expansion coefficient of various metal heat pipes or tubes. Large, but thin composite panels were successfully fabricated after optimizing cure conditions. Space durability of PMC with potential degradation mechanisms was assessed by simulated thermal aging tests in high vacuum, 1-3 x 10(exp -6) torr, at three temperatures, 227 C, 277 C, and 316 C for up to one year. Nanocomposites with vapor-grown carbon nano-fibers and exfoliated graphite flakes were attempted to improve thermal conductivity (TC) and microcracking resistance. Good quality nanocomposites were fabricated and evaluated for TC and durability including radiation resistance. TC was measured in both in-plan and thru-the-thickness directions, and the effects of microcracks on TC are also being evaluated. This paper will discuss the systematic experimental approaches, various performance-durability evaluations, and current subcomponent design and fabrication/manufacturing efforts.

Commuter exposure to particulate matter and particle-bound PAHs in three transportation modes in Beijing, China.

PubMed

Yan, Caiqing; Zheng, Mei; Yang, Qiaoyun; Zhang, Qunfang; Qiu, Xinghua; Zhang, Yanjun; Fu, Huaiyu; Li, Xiaoying; Zhu, Tong; Zhu, Yifang

2015-09-01

Exposure to fine and ultrafine particles as well as particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by commuters in three transportation modes (walking, subway and bus) were examined in December 2011 in Beijing, China. During the study period, real-time measured median PM2.5 mass concentration (PMC) for walking, riding buses and taking the subway were 26.7, 32.9 and 56.9 μg m(-3), respectively, and particle number concentrations (PNC) were 1.1 × 10(4), 1.0 × 10(4) and 2.2 × 10(4) cm(-3). Commuters were exposed to higher PNC in air-conditioned buses and aboveground-railway, but higher PMC in underground-subway compared to aboveground-railway. PNC in roadway modes (bus and walking) peaked at noon, but was lower during traffic rush hours, negatively correlated with PMC. Toxic potential of particulate-PAHs estimated based on benzo(a)pyrene toxic equivalents (BaP TEQs) showed that walking pedestrians were subjected to higher BaP TEQs than bus (2.7-fold) and subway (3.6-fold) commuters, though the highest PMC and PNC were observed in subway. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cdc42 controls primary mesenchyme cell morphogenesis in the sea urchin embryo.

PubMed

Sepúlveda-Ramírez, Silvia P; Toledo-Jacobo, Leslie; Henson, John H; Shuster, Charles B

2018-05-15

In the sea urchin embryo, gastrulation is characterized by the ingression and directed cell migration of primary mesenchyme cells (PMCs), as well as the primary invagination and convergent extension of the endomesoderm. Like all cell shape changes, individual and collective cell motility is orchestrated by Rho family GTPases and their modulation of the actomyosin cytoskeleton. And while endomesoderm specification has been intensively studied in echinoids, much less is known about the proximate regulators driving cell motility. Toward these ends, we employed anti-sense morpholinos, mutant alleles and pharmacological inhibitors to assess the role of Cdc42 during sea urchin gastrulation. While inhibition of Cdc42 expression or activity had only mild effects on PMC ingression, PMC migration, alignment and skeletogenesis were disrupted in the absence of Cdc42, as well as elongation of the archenteron. PMC migration and patterning of the larval skeleton relies on the extension of filopodia, and Cdc42 was required for filopodia in vivo as well as in cultured PMCs. Lastly, filopodial extension required both Arp2/3 and formin actin-nucleating factors, supporting models of filopodial nucleation observed in other systems. Together, these results suggest that Cdc42 plays essential roles during PMC cell motility and organogenesis. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Project Management Consultancy (PMC) procurement approach: Supplier's evaluation and selection dilemma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nawi, Mohd Nasrun Mohd; Azimi, Mohd Azrulfitri; Pozin, Mohd Affendi Ahmad; Osman, Wan Nadri; Anuar, Herman Shah

2016-08-01

Project Management Consultancy (PMC) is part of the management oriented procurement method in which a sole consultant is hired by the client to deal with the contactors in place of the client. Appointing contractors in this method or approach looks to be interesting as client could play a pivotal role in evaluating and selecting the supplier/contractor for the work package. In some cases, client gives the authority for the PMC to hire the supplier/contractor of their choice while in some cases the client is the one who made the decision. This research paper seeks to investigate the dilemma arises from this situation and for the purpose of this research, a real case study was studied to assess the impacts of such dilemma to the performance of the project. Recommendations on how to tackle the dilemma will also be addressed in the later part of this research paper.

Impulsive signals in the night ionosphere of Venus - Comparison of results obtained below the local electron gyro frequency with those above

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, C. T.; Von Dornum, M.; Scarf, F. L.

1990-01-01

Impulsive VLF signals at low altitudes in the night ionosphere of Venus occur both above and below the electron gyro frequency. The strength of the magnetic field has a very strong influence on the occurrence rates of these impulsive emissions at all frequencies. Above about one-quarter of the local electron gyro frequency the waves occur most frequently for strong magnetic fields and much less frequently for weak fields. However, below about one-quarter of the electron gyro frequency, the occurrence rate is much less sensitive to field strength. At all frequencies the occurrence rate depends little on the direction of the magnetic field. The occurrence rate is strongly dependent on local time especially above the electron gyro frequency. Here, the occurrence rate peaks sharply at 2100 LT. Below the local electron gyro frequency the occurrence rate also shows a maximum near 2100 LT but decreases much more slowly with increasing local time. The rate of occurrence of low frequency signals varies little with altitude but the occurrence of the higher frequency signals decreases rapidly. These properties are consistent with a broadband source of VLF waves in the Venus atmosphere such as would be provided by intracloud lightning.

Fatigue damage characterization of braided and woven fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites at room and elevated temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montesano, John

The use of polymer matrix composites (PMC) for manufacturing primary load-bearing structural components has significantly increased in many industrial applications. Specifically in the aerospace industry, PMCs are also being considered for elevated temperature applications. Current aerospace-grade composite components subjected to fatigue loading are over-designed due to insufficient understanding of the material failure processes, and due to the lack of available generic fatigue prediction models. A comprehensive literature survey reveals that there are few fatigue studies conducted on woven and braided fabric reinforced PMC materials, and even fewer at elevated temperatures. It is therefore the objective of this study to characterize and subsequently model the elevated temperature fatigue behaviour of a triaxial braided PMC, and to investigate the elevated temperature fatigue properties of two additional woven PMCs. An extensive experimental program is conducted using a unique test protocol on the braided and woven composites, which consists of static and fatigue testing at various test temperatures. The development of mechanically-induced damage is monitored using a combination of non-destructive techniques which included infrared thermography, fiber optic sensors and edge replication. The observed microscopic damage development is quantified and correlated to the exhibited macroscopic material behaviour at all test temperatures. The fiber-dominated PMC materials considered in this study did not exhibit notable time- or temperature-dependent static properties. However, fatigue tests reveal that the local damage development is in fact notably influenced by temperature. The elevated temperature environment increases the toughness of the thermosetting polymers, which results in consistently slower fatigue crack propagation rates for the respective composite materials. This has a direct impact on the stiffness degradation rate and the fatigue lives for the braided and woven composites under investigation. The developed analytical fatigue damage prediction model, which is based on actual observed damage mechanisms, accurately predicted the development of damage and the corresponding stiffness degradation for the braided PMC, for all test temperatures. An excellent correlation was found between the experimental and the predicted results to within a 2% accuracy. The prediction model adequately captured the local temperature-induced phenomenon exhibited by the braided PMC material. The results presented in this study are novel for a braided composite material subjected to elevated temperature fatigue.

Renormalization group invariance and optimal QCD renormalization scale-setting: a key issues review.

PubMed

Wu, Xing-Gang; Ma, Yang; Wang, Sheng-Quan; Fu, Hai-Bing; Ma, Hong-Hao; Brodsky, Stanley J; Mojaza, Matin

2015-12-01

A valid prediction for a physical observable from quantum field theory should be independent of the choice of renormalization scheme--this is the primary requirement of renormalization group invariance (RGI). Satisfying scheme invariance is a challenging problem for perturbative QCD (pQCD), since a truncated perturbation series does not automatically satisfy the requirements of the renormalization group. In a previous review, we provided a general introduction to the various scale setting approaches suggested in the literature. As a step forward, in the present review, we present a discussion in depth of two well-established scale-setting methods based on RGI. One is the 'principle of maximum conformality' (PMC) in which the terms associated with the β-function are absorbed into the scale of the running coupling at each perturbative order; its predictions are scheme and scale independent at every finite order. The other approach is the 'principle of minimum sensitivity' (PMS), which is based on local RGI; the PMS approach determines the optimal renormalization scale by requiring the slope of the approximant of an observable to vanish. In this paper, we present a detailed comparison of the PMC and PMS procedures by analyzing two physical observables R(e+e-) and [Formula: see text] up to four-loop order in pQCD. At the four-loop level, the PMC and PMS predictions for both observables agree within small errors with those of conventional scale setting assuming a physically-motivated scale, and each prediction shows small scale dependences. However, the convergence of the pQCD series at high orders, behaves quite differently: the PMC displays the best pQCD convergence since it eliminates divergent renormalon terms; in contrast, the convergence of the PMS prediction is questionable, often even worse than the conventional prediction based on an arbitrary guess for the renormalization scale. PMC predictions also have the property that any residual dependence on the choice of initial scale is highly suppressed even for low-order predictions. Thus the PMC, based on the standard RGI, has a rigorous foundation; it eliminates an unnecessary systematic error for high precision pQCD predictions and can be widely applied to virtually all high-energy hadronic processes, including multi-scale problems.

Renormalization group invariance and optimal QCD renormalization scale-setting: a key issues review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xing-Gang; Ma, Yang; Wang, Sheng-Quan; Fu, Hai-Bing; Ma, Hong-Hao; Brodsky, Stanley J.; Mojaza, Matin

2015-12-01

A valid prediction for a physical observable from quantum field theory should be independent of the choice of renormalization scheme—this is the primary requirement of renormalization group invariance (RGI). Satisfying scheme invariance is a challenging problem for perturbative QCD (pQCD), since a truncated perturbation series does not automatically satisfy the requirements of the renormalization group. In a previous review, we provided a general introduction to the various scale setting approaches suggested in the literature. As a step forward, in the present review, we present a discussion in depth of two well-established scale-setting methods based on RGI. One is the ‘principle of maximum conformality’ (PMC) in which the terms associated with the β-function are absorbed into the scale of the running coupling at each perturbative order; its predictions are scheme and scale independent at every finite order. The other approach is the ‘principle of minimum sensitivity’ (PMS), which is based on local RGI; the PMS approach determines the optimal renormalization scale by requiring the slope of the approximant of an observable to vanish. In this paper, we present a detailed comparison of the PMC and PMS procedures by analyzing two physical observables R e+e- and Γ(H\\to b\\bar{b}) up to four-loop order in pQCD. At the four-loop level, the PMC and PMS predictions for both observables agree within small errors with those of conventional scale setting assuming a physically-motivated scale, and each prediction shows small scale dependences. However, the convergence of the pQCD series at high orders, behaves quite differently: the PMC displays the best pQCD convergence since it eliminates divergent renormalon terms; in contrast, the convergence of the PMS prediction is questionable, often even worse than the conventional prediction based on an arbitrary guess for the renormalization scale. PMC predictions also have the property that any residual dependence on the choice of initial scale is highly suppressed even for low-order predictions. Thus the PMC, based on the standard RGI, has a rigorous foundation; it eliminates an unnecessary systematic error for high precision pQCD predictions and can be widely applied to virtually all high-energy hadronic processes, including multi-scale problems.

Finding palaeowaters in a multi-layered aquifer system in the Lom depression of Danubian Plain in Bulgaria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Túri, Marianna; Palcsu, László; Molnár, Mihály; Futó, István; Orehova, Tatiana; Toteva, Aglaida; Hristov, Vladimir; Benderev, Aleksey

2017-04-01

This work is an environmental isotope investigation of groundwater samples from a multi-layered aquifer system in the Lom depression of Danubian Plain in Bulgaria. Our previous studies in the Carpathian-Pannonian Region had been convinced through groundwater researches using noble gas temperatures that the recharge temperature difference between the Holocene and the late Pleistocene recharged waters is 9.13±0.89°C. The aim of this research in Bulgaria is to observe this phenomenon at the outside of the Carpathian-Pannonian Region. The purpose of the sampling campaign was to find out that one of the aquifers of the Lom depression could be a potential site for late Pleistocene, and Holocene paleoclimate reconstruction. There are water samples from the Dacian-Romanian complex, Upper-Pontian aquifer, Meotian-Lower Pontian aquitard and the Sarmatian aquifer as well. The collected water samples were examined for water chemistry, stable carbon, oxygen and hydrogen isotopes, and for noble gas concentrations, and besides them for radiocarbon and tritium. The radiocarbon content of the water samples are in the range from 15.9 pMC to 98.6 pMC. Based on the obtained radiocarbon values it can be stated that tree aquifers of four could be contain such waters which recharged during the early Holocene late Pleistocene (Pontian, Dacian, Sarmatian). There are two wells in the Pontian aquifer (Dolni Tsibar, 20.8 pMC; Agroinvest, 23.8 pMC) with lower radiocarbon content. Based on the stable oxygen composition of the Agroinvest well, which is with -14.2 ‰ more negative than the others so it can be late Pleistocene recharged water. In the Dacian aquifer might be one well, the Valchedram which can be late Pleistocene recharged with 23.7 pMC. In the Sarmatian aquifer can be find the oldest water sample from all with 15.9 pMC of Smirnenski. The obtained noble gas temperatures and tritium values might be stated this hypothesis as well. All measurements were carried out in Hertelendi Laboratory of Environmental Studies, Institute for Nuclear Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The research was supported by the European Union and the State of Hungary, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund in the project of GINOP-2.3.2.-15-2016-00009 'ICER'.

Tweeting Napoleon and Friending Clausewitz: Social Media and the Military Strategist

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

Informatics 2012 (June 23, 2012), accessed February 8, 2015, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3799184/. 27 Frisch et al., “Use of Social...As she herself aptly describes, the academic naysayers believed the learning process had to be like “cod-liver oil ,” terrible tasting but good for...Increase Knowledge and Skills of British Columbia Nurses.” NI 2012: Proceedings of the 11th International Congress on Nursing Informatics 2012 (June

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation over the Medial Prefrontal Cortex and Left Primary Motor Cortex (mPFC-lPMC) Affects Subjective Beauty but Not Ugliness

PubMed Central

Nakamura, Koyo; Kawabata, Hideaki

2015-01-01

Neuroaesthetics has been searching for the neural bases of the subjective experience of beauty. It has been demonstrated that neural activities in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the left primary motor cortex (lPMC) correlate with the subjective experience of beauty. Although beauty and ugliness seem to be semantically and conceptually opposite, it is still unknown whether these two evaluations represent extreme opposites in unitary or bivariate dimensions. In this study, we applied transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to examine whether non-invasive brain stimulation modulates two types of esthetic evaluation; evaluating beauty and ugliness. Participants rated the subjective beauty and ugliness of abstract paintings before and after the application of tDCS. Application of cathodal tDCS over the mPFC with anode electrode over the lPMC, which induced temporal inhibition of neural excitability of the mPFC, led to a decrease in beauty ratings but not ugliness ratings. There were no changes in ratings of both beauty and ugliness when applying anodal tDCS or sham stimulation over the mPFC. Results from our experiment indicate that the mPFC and the lPMC have a causal role in generating the subjective experience of beauty, with beauty and ugliness evaluations constituting two distinct dimensions. PMID:26696865

A Comparative Study on Permanent Mold Cast and Powder Thixoforming 6061 Aluminum Alloy and Sicp/6061Al Composite: Microstructures and Mechanical Properties.

PubMed

Zhang, Xuezheng; Chen, Tijun; Qin, He; Wang, Chong

2016-05-24

Microstructural and mechanical characterization of 10 vol% SiC particles (SiC p ) reinforced 6061 Al-based composite fabricated by powder thixoforming (PTF) was investigated in comparison with the PTF and permanent mold cast (PMC) 6061 monolithic alloys. The results reveal that the microstructure of the PMC alloy consists of coarse and equiaxed α dendrites and interdendritic net-like eutectic phases. However, the microstructure of the PTF composite, similar to that of the PTF alloy, consists of near-spheroidal primary particles and intergranular secondarily solidified structures except SiC p , which are distributed in the secondarily solidified structures. The eutectics amount in the PTF materials is distinctly lower than that in the PMC alloy, and the microstructures of the former materials are quite compact while that of the latter alloy is porous. Therefore, the PTF alloy shows better tensile properties than the PMC alloy. Owing to the existence of the SiC reinforcing particles, the PTF composite attains an ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of 230 MPa and 128 MPa, representing an enhancement of 27.8% and 29.3% than those (180 MPa and 99 MPa) of the PTF alloy. A modified model based on three strengthening mechanisms was proposed to calculate the yield strength of the PTF composite. The obtained theoretical results were quite consistent with the experimental data.

A possible solution to the B → π π puzzle using the principle of maximum conformality

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

Qiao, Cong -Feng; Zhu, Rui -Lin; Wu, Xing

2015-07-22

We measured the B d→π 0π 0B d→π 0π 0 branching fraction and found that it deviates significantly from conventional QCD predictions, a puzzle which has persisted for more than 10 years. This may be a hint of new physics beyond the Standard Model; however, as we shall show in this paper, the pQCD prediction is highly sensitive to the choice of the renormalization scales which enter the decay amplitude. In the present paper, we show that the renormalization scale uncertainties for B→ππB→ππ can be greatly reduced by applying the Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC), and more precise predictions formore » CP-averaged branching ratios B(B→ππ)B(B→ππ) can be achieved. Combining the errors in quadrature, we obtain View the MathML sourceB(Bd→π 0π 0)|PMC=(0.98 -0.31 +0.44)×10 -6 by using the light-front holographic low-energy model for the running coupling. All of the CP-averaged B→ππB→ππ branching fractions predicted by the PMC are consistent with the Particle Data Group average values and the recent Belle data. Moreover, the PMC provides a possible solution for the B d→π 0π 0B d→π 0π 0 puzzle.« less

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

McLuskey, Karen; Grewal, Jaspreet S.; Das, Debanu

Clan CD cysteine peptidases, a structurally related group of peptidases that include mammalian caspases, exhibit a wide range of important functions, along with a variety of specificities and activation mechanisms. However, for the clostripain family (denoted C11), little is currently known. Here, we describe the first crystal structure of a C11 protein from the human gut bacterium, Parabacteroides merdae (PmC11), determined to 1.7-Å resolution. PmC11 is a monomeric cysteine peptidase that comprises an extended caspase-like α/β/α sandwich and an unusual C-terminal domain. It shares core structural elements with clan CD cysteine peptidases but otherwise structurally differs from the other familiesmore » in the clan. These studies also revealed a well ordered break in the polypeptide chain at Lys 147, resulting in a large conformational rearrangement close to the active site. Biochemical and kinetic analysis revealed Lys 147 to be an intramolecular processing site at which cleavage is required for full activation of the enzyme, suggesting an autoinhibitory mechanism for self-preservation. PmC11 has an acidic binding pocket and a preference for basic substrates, and accepts substrates with Arg and Lys in P1 and does not require Ca 2+ for activity. Altogether, these data provide insights into the mechanism and activity of PmC11 and a detailed framework for studies on C11 peptidases from other phylogenetic kingdoms.« less

The first structure of a cold-active catalase from Vibrio salmonicida at 1.96 A reveals structural aspects of cold adaptation.

PubMed

Riise, Ellen Kristin; Lorentzen, Marit Sjo; Helland, Ronny; Smalås, Arne O; Leiros, Hanna-Kirsti S; Willassen, Nils Peder

2007-02-01

The cold-adapted catalase from the fish-pathogenic bacterium Vibrio salmonicida (VSC) has recently been characterized and shown to be two times more catalytically efficient compared with catalase from the mesophilic human pathogen Proteus mirabilis [PMC; Lorentzen et al. (2006), Extremophiles, 10, 427-440]. VSC is also less temperature-stable, with a half-life of 5 min at 333 K compared with 50 min for PMC. This was the background for solving the crystal structure of the cold-adapted VSC to 1.96 A and performing an extensive structural comparison of VSC and PMC. The comparison revealed that the entrance (the major channel) leading to the catalytically essential haem group, is locally more flexible and slightly wider in VSC. This might explain the enhanced catalytic efficiency of the nearly diffusion-controlled degradation of hydrogen peroxide into water and molecular oxygen in VSC. The reduced thermal stability of the cold-adapted VSC may be explained by a reduced number of ion-pair networks. The four C-terminal alpha-helices are displaced in the structures, probably owing to missing ionic interactions in VSC compared with PMC, and this is postulated as an initiation site for unfolding the cold-adapted enzyme. VSC is the first crystal structure reported of a cold-adapted monofunctional haem-containing catalase.

Coordinated Ground-Based and AIM Satellite Measurements of Mesospheric and Stratospheric Waves over South America

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, M. J.; Zhao, Y.; Pautet, P. D.; Carstens, J. N.; Pugmire, J. R.; Smith, S. M.; Liu, A. Z.; Vargas, F.; Swenson, G. R.; Randall, C. E.; Bailey, S. M.; Russell, J. M., III

2016-12-01

To date, the primary research goals of the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) satellite have focussed on investigating the occurrence, properties and dynamics of high-latitude Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMC). With the evolution of the AIM orbit beta angle the opportunity now exists to make measurements outside the PMC region covering mid-low and equatorial latitudes. As part of the extended AIM mission science program, the AIM platform in conjunction with auxiliary ground-based measurements will be used to better understand upper atmospheric dynamics and vertical coupling due to gravity waves. Over the next 2 years AIM will take advantage of a new imaging capability of the on-board large-field CIPS UV imager to capture new data on the characteristics and spatial extents of stratospheric gravity waves near the 50 km level and their variation with latitude and season. In this study we report on initial coordinated ground-based measurements with the Andes Lidar Observatory (ALO) at Cerro Pachon, Chile ( 30°S) and nearby El Leoncito Observatory, Argentina, high in the Andes Mountains, where regular remote-sensing measurements are made using meteor radar, mesospheric airglow imagers, temperature mappers and an Na wind-temperature lidar (on a campaign basis). First coordinated measurements were made during the winter period in June 2016. AIM daytime overpasses have been analysed to search for and characterize extensive stratospheric wave events, as well as long-lived "Mountain Waves" over South America. Subsequent night-time ground-based measurements have been used to quantify wave characteristics in the mesopause region ( 80-100 km) to investigate vertical coupling. These measurements are continuing and it is planned to extend the new AIM stratospheric gravity wave data set for similar studies from a number of well-instrumented ground sites around the world.

Ultrathin efficient perovskite solar cells employing a periodic structure of a composite hole conductor for elevated plasmonic light harvesting and hole collection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Mingzhu; Chen, Zefeng; Zhang, Tiankai; Xiao, Yubin; Zeng, Xiaoliang; Chen, Jian; Yan, Keyou; Xu, Jianbin

2016-03-01

We developed a molecule/polymer composite hole transporting material (HTM) with a periodic microstructure for morphology replication of a corrugated Au electrode, which in combination plays a dual role in the optical and electronic enhancement of high performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The electro-optics revealed that perovskite couldn't readily extinct the red light even though the thickness increased to 370 nm, but we found that the quasi periodic microstructure composite (PMC) HTM in combination with the conformal Au electrode could promote the absorption through the enhanced cavity effects, leading to comparable absorption even using much thinner perovskite (240 nm). We identified that the cavity was the combination of Fabry-Pérot interferometer and surface plasmonic resonance, with light harvesting enhancement through surface plasmon polariton or waveguide modes that propagate in the plane of the perovskite layer. On the other hand, the PMC HTM increased hole conductivity by one order of magnitude with respect to standard spiro-OMeTAD HTM due to molecular packing and self-assembly, embodying traceable hole mobility and density elevation up to 3 times, and thus the hysteresis was greatly avoided. Owing to dual optical and electronic enhancement, the PMC PSC afforded high efficiency PSC using as thin as 240 nm perovskite layer, delivering a Voc of 1.05 V, Jsc of 22.9 mA cm-2, FF of 0.736, and efficiency amounting to 17.7% PCE, the highest efficiency with ultrathin perovskite layer.We developed a molecule/polymer composite hole transporting material (HTM) with a periodic microstructure for morphology replication of a corrugated Au electrode, which in combination plays a dual role in the optical and electronic enhancement of high performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The electro-optics revealed that perovskite couldn't readily extinct the red light even though the thickness increased to 370 nm, but we found that the quasi periodic microstructure composite (PMC) HTM in combination with the conformal Au electrode could promote the absorption through the enhanced cavity effects, leading to comparable absorption even using much thinner perovskite (240 nm). We identified that the cavity was the combination of Fabry-Pérot interferometer and surface plasmonic resonance, with light harvesting enhancement through surface plasmon polariton or waveguide modes that propagate in the plane of the perovskite layer. On the other hand, the PMC HTM increased hole conductivity by one order of magnitude with respect to standard spiro-OMeTAD HTM due to molecular packing and self-assembly, embodying traceable hole mobility and density elevation up to 3 times, and thus the hysteresis was greatly avoided. Owing to dual optical and electronic enhancement, the PMC PSC afforded high efficiency PSC using as thin as 240 nm perovskite layer, delivering a Voc of 1.05 V, Jsc of 22.9 mA cm-2, FF of 0.736, and efficiency amounting to 17.7% PCE, the highest efficiency with ultrathin perovskite layer. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: XRD patterns corresponding to the perovskite; AFM images of 3D PMC HTM perovskite solar cells; performance statistics for 3D PMC HTM; ultraviolet photoelectron spectra (UPS) of HTMs on FTO. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr05042a

Genome-Wide Association Study in African-Americans with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

variety of settings. Our control data were used in a study of sarcoidosis (2), showing how the data collected for one project can be a benefit in another...ethnic specific Loci in sarcoidosis susceptibility, PLoS One 7, e43907. PMCID: PMC3428296. 2. Anaya JM, Kim-Howard X, Prahalad S, Chernavsky A, Canas C...Loci in sarcoidosis susceptibility, PLoS One 7, e43907. PMCID: PMC3428296. 5 3. Anaya JM, Kim-Howard X, Prahalad S, Chernavsky A, Canas C, Rojas

Intrusion of basaltic magma into a crystallizing granitic magma chamber: The Cordillera del Paine pluton in southern Chile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michael, Peter J.

1991-10-01

The Cordillera del Paine pluton in the southernmost Andes of Chile represents a deeply dissected magma chamber where mafic magma intruded into crystallizing granitic magma. Throughout much of the 10x15 km pluton, there is a sharp and continuous boundary at a remarkably constant elevation of 1,100 m that separates granitic rocks (Cordillera del Paine or CP granite: 69 77% SiO2) which make up the upper levels of the pluton from mafic and comingled rocks (Paine Mafic Complex or PMC: 45 60% SiO2) which dominate the lower exposures of the pluton. Chilled, crenulate, disrupted contacts of mafic rock against granite demonstrate that partly crystallized granite was intruded by mafic magma which solidified prior to complete crystallization of the granitic magma. The boundary at 1,100 m was a large and stable density contrast between the denser, hotter mafic magma and cooler granitic magma. The granitic magma was more solidified near the margins of the chamber when mafic intrusion occurred, and the PMC is less disrupted by granites there. Near the pluton margins, the PMC grades upward irregularly from cumulate gabbros to monzodiorites. Mafic magma differentiated largely by fractional crystallization as indicated by the presence of cumulate rocks and by the low levels of compatible elements in most PMC rocks. The compositional gap between the PMC and CP granite indicates that mixing (blending) of granitic magma into the mafic magma was less important, although it is apparent from mineral assemblages in mafic rocks. Granitic magma may have incorporated small amounts of mafic liquid that had evolved to >60% SiO2 by crystallization. Mixing was inhibited by the extent of crystallization of the granite, and by the thermal contrast and the stable density contrast between the magmas. PMC gabbros display disequilibrium mineral assemblages including early formed zoned olivine (with orthopyroxene coronas), clinopyroxene, calcic plagioclase and paragasite and later-formed amphibole, sodic plagioclase, mica and quartz. The early formed gabbroic minerals (and their coronas) are very similar to phenocrysts in late basaltic dikes that cut the upper levels of the CP granite. The inferred parental magmas of both dikes and gabbros were very similar to subalkaline basalts of the Patagonian Plateau that erupted at about the same time, 35 km to the east. Mafic and silicic magmas at Cordillera del Paine are consanguineous, as demonstrated by alkalinity and trace-element ratios. However, the contemporaneity of mafic and silicic magmas precludes a parent-daughter relationship. The granitic magma most likely was derived by differentiation of mafic magmas that were similar to those that later intruded it. Or, the granitic magma may have been contaminated by mafic magmas similar to the PMC magmas before its shallow emplacement. Mixing would be favored at deeper levels when the cooling rate was lower and the granitic magma was less solidified.

Particle Methods for Simulating Atomic Radiation in Hypersonic Reentry Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozawa, T.; Wang, A.; Levin, D. A.; Modest, M.

2008-12-01

With a fast reentry speed, the Stardust vehicle generates a strong shock region ahead of its blunt body with a temperature above 60,000 K. These extreme Mach number flows are sufficiently energetic to initiate gas ionization processes and thermal and chemical ablation processes. The nonequilibrium gaseous radiation from the shock layer is so strong that it affects the flowfield macroparameter distributions. In this work, we present the first loosely coupled direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) simulations with the particle-based photon Monte Carlo (p-PMC) method to simulate high-Mach number reentry flows in the near-continuum flow regime. To efficiently capture the highly nonequilibrium effects, emission and absorption cross section databases using the Nonequilibrium Air Radiation (NEQAIR) were generated, and atomic nitrogen and oxygen radiative transport was calculated by the p-PMC method. The radiation energy change calculated by the p-PMC method has been coupled in the DSMC calculations, and the atomic radiation was found to modify the flow field and heat flux at the wall.

The Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere Mission: Science Results After Three PMC Seasons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Russell, J. M.; Bailey, S. M.; Rusch, D.; Thomas, G. E.; Gordley, L. L.; Hervig, M. E.; Horanyi, M.

2008-12-01

The Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) satellite was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 1:26:03 PDT on April 25, 2007 becoming the first satellite mission dedicated to the study of Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMCs). A Pegasus XL rocket launched the satellite into a near perfect 600 km sun synchronous circular orbit. AIM carries three instruments - a nadir imager, a solar occultation sounder and an in-situ cosmic dust detector. Brief instrument descriptions, data quality and key science results will be presented. AIM has observed three PMC seasons at this point in time including two in the northern hemisphere (2007 and 2008) and one in the south (2007/2008). The observations are providing extraordinary detail on the horizontal and vertical extent of PMCs and their variability. Results show that the mesospheric ice layer extends up to the mesopause, there are voids in the PMC fields of both hemispheres and for the two northern seasons, temporal trends are remarkably similar.

Tensile Properties of Polymeric Matrix Composites Subjected to Cryogenic Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitley, Karen S.; Gates, Thomas S.

2004-01-01

Polymer matrix composites (PMC s) have seen limited use as structural materials in cryogenic environments. One reason for the limited use of PMC s in cryogenic structures is a design philosophy that typically requires a large, validated database of material properties in order to ensure a reliable and defect free structure. It is the intent of this paper to provide an initial set of mechanical properties developed from experimental data of an advanced PMC (IM7/PETI-5) exposed to cryogenic temperatures and mechanical loading. The application of this data is to assist in the materials down-select and design of cryogenic fuel tanks for future reusable space vehicles. The details of the material system, test program, and experimental methods will be outlined. Tension modulus and strength were measured at room temperature, -196 C, and -269 C on five different laminates. These properties were also tested after aging at -186 C with and without loading applied. Microcracking was observed in one laminate.

Peer and Parent Influences on School Engagement Among Early Adolescents

PubMed Central

Chen, Rusan

2008-01-01

This PDF receipt will only be used as the basis for generating PubMed Central (PMC) documents. PMC documents will be made available for review after conversion (approx. 2-3 weeks time). Any corrections that need to be made will be done at that time. No materials will be released to PMC without the approval of an author. Only the PMC documents will appear on PubMed Central -- this PDF Receipt will not appear on PubMed Central. Students who are not motivated and do not try to do well are unlikely to achieve at a level consistent with their abilities. This research assessed the relationships over time between school engagement and parenting practices and peer affiliation among 6th–9th graders using latent growth models (LGM). Participants included 2,453 students recruited from 7 public middle schools who were assessed 5 times between fall of 6th and 9th grades as part of a program evaluation study. During this period school engagement and adjustment declined somewhat, while substance use, conduct problems, and problem behaving friends increased, and authoritative parenting practices declined. The significant, positive over-time associations between school engagement and parent involvement, expectations, and monitoring were fully mediated by growth in problem behaving friends. School adjustment mediated the relationship between school engagement and parent expectations. These findings suggest that authoritative parenting practices may foster school engagement directly and also indirectly by discouraging affiliation with problem behaving friends and facilitating school adjustment. PMID:19888349

The role of an occlusal template during the placement of preformed metal crowns in children under general anaesthesia: a randomised control trial.

PubMed

Pani, S C; Dimashkieh, M; Mojaleed, F; Al Shammery, F

2015-12-01

This aim was to evaluate preformed metal crowns (PMC) placed under general anaesthesia using an occlusal template in comparison to crowns placed without the use of a template. CONSORT protocols were followed in the design of the study. A total of 60 children between 4-7 years requiring pulpotomy and PMC for all primary molars met the inclusion criteria for this study. The control group comprised patients for whom the PMC were placed without the use of an occlusal template, while in the test group crowns were placed using a polyvinyl siloxane occlusal template. Patients were followed up at 24 h, 7 days, 3 and 6 months. The time taken for the placement of crowns, instances of post-operative discomfort, success or failure of the pulp therapy and loss of any crowns were compared between the groups. The mean time taken for completion of the procedure in the control group was significantly greater than the template group (t = 2.566, p = 0.013). Significantly fewer patients in the template group reported symptoms of discomfort or high points at the 24-h recall; however, these differences were not significant at the 1-week, 3- or 6-month recall. The use of an occlusal template for the placement of multiple PMC under general anaesthesia reduces the time taken for their placement and reduces the incidence of immediate post-operative discomfort.

Mesospheric Ice particle sizes derived from two-color SME (1982-1986) and SNOE (1998- 2002) UV satellite measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, G. E.; Bailey, S. M.; Merkel, A. W.; Baumgarten, G.; Rusch, D. W.

2006-12-01

The UV spectrum of scattering from mesospheric ice particles (Polar Mesospheric Clouds) contains information on particle size, and on the microphysics of the cold summertime mesopause region. Nearly identical Ultraviolet Spectrometers were flown on both the Solar Mesosphere Explorer (SME) and Student Nitric Oxide Explorer (SNOE) satellites, both in sun-synchronous orbits reaching deep within the cold polar regions where PMC occur. The instruments measured two wavelengths simultaneously (265 and 296 nm for SME, 215 and 237 nm for SNOE), and detected PMC over a grand total of twenty PMC seasons, each covering five year periods (1982-1986 for SME) and (1998-2002 for SNOE). Using the well well-known wavelength dependence of Rayleigh scattering from thje cloud-free mesosphere we calibrate the two channels with respect to each other . The resulting accurate color ratios are then analyzed taking the brightness of the clouds into account, etc. Previous studies of the available spectral data (Rapp et al., 2006) suggested that non-spherical particles of large aspect ratios are required for consistency with the data then available. We test their results on a much more extensive data set for a large number of PMC seasons. Through the use of modern scattering theory, and predictions of the size distribution from microphysical models, such as the CARMA model, we report particle size and shape regimes which are consistent with the color ratios, obtained with different scattering geometries in both northern and southern hemispheres.

Spatial and temporal heterogeneity of neural responses in human posteromedial cortex.

PubMed

Daitch, Amy L; Parvizi, Josef

2018-05-01

Neuroimaging evidence supports a role of the default mode network (DMN) in spontaneous thought and goal-driven internally oriented processes, such as recalling an autobiographical event, and has demonstrated its deactivation during focused, externally oriented attention. Recent work suggests that the DMN is not a homogeneous network but rather is composed of at least several subnetworks, which are engaged in distinct functions; however, it is still unclear if these different functions rely on the same neuronal populations. In this study, we used intracranial EEG to record from the posteromedial cortex (PMC), a core hub of the DMN, in 13 human subjects, during autobiographical memory retrieval (internally oriented), arithmetic processing (externally oriented), and cued rest (spontaneous thought), allowing us to measure activity from anatomically precise PMC sites with high temporal resolution. We observed a heterogeneous, yet spatially organized, pattern of activity across tasks. Many sites, primarily in the more ventral portion of PMC, were engaged during autobiographical recall and suppressed during arithmetic processing. Other more dorsal PMC sites were engaged during the cued-rest condition. Of these rest-active sites, some exhibited variable temporal dynamics across trials, possibly reflecting various forms of spontaneous thought, while others showed only transient activity at the beginning of cued-rest trials (i.e., after a switch from a task to cued rest), possibly involved in shifting the brain from a more focused to a more exploratory attentional state. These results suggest heterogeneity of function even within an individual node of the DMN.

Oxygen plasma treatment and deposition of CN{sub x} on a fluorinated polymer matrix composite for improved erosion resistance

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

Muratore, C.; Korenyi-Both, A.; Bultman, J. E.

2007-07-15

The use of polymer matrix composites in aerospace propulsion applications is currently limited by insufficient resistance to erosion by abrasive media. Erosion resistant coatings may provide necessary protection; however, adhesion to many high temperature polymer matrix composite (PMC) materials is poor. A low pressure oxygen plasma treatment process was developed to improve adhesion of CN{sub x} coatings to a carbon reinforced, fluorinated polymer matrix composite. Fullerene-like CN{sub x} was selected as an erosion resistant coating for its high hardness-to-elastic modulus ratio and elastic resilience which were expected to reduce erosion from media incident at different angles (normal or glancing) relativemore » to the surface. In situ x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to evaluate the effect of the plasma treatment on surface chemistry, and electron microscopy was used to identify changes in the surface morphology of the PMC substrate after plasma exposure. The fluorine concentration at the surface was significantly reduced and the carbon fibers were exposed after plasma treatment. CN{sub x} coatings were then deposited on oxygen treated PMC substrates. Qualitative tests demonstrated that plasma treatment improved coating adhesion resulting in an erosion resistance improvement of a factor of 2 compared to untreated coated composite substrates. The combination of PMC pretreatment and coating with CN{sub x} reduced the erosion rate by an order of magnitude for normally incident particles.« less

Multimodal connectivity of motor learning-related dorsal premotor cortex.

PubMed

Hardwick, Robert M; Lesage, Elise; Eickhoff, Claudia R; Clos, Mareike; Fox, Peter; Eickhoff, Simon B

2015-12-01

The dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC) is a key region for motor learning and sensorimotor integration, yet we have limited understanding of its functional interactions with other regions. Previous work has started to examine functional connectivity in several brain areas using resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) and meta-analytical connectivity modelling (MACM). More recently, structural covariance (SC) has been proposed as a technique that may also allow delineation of functional connectivity. Here, we applied these three approaches to provide a comprehensive characterization of functional connectivity with a seed in the left dPMC that a previous meta-analysis of functional neuroimaging studies has identified as playing a key role in motor learning. Using data from two sources (the Rockland sample, containing resting state data and anatomical scans from 132 participants, and the BrainMap database, which contains peak activation foci from over 10,000 experiments), we conducted independent whole-brain functional connectivity mapping analyses of a dPMC seed. RSFC and MACM revealed similar connectivity maps spanning prefrontal, premotor, and parietal regions, while the SC map identified more widespread frontal regions. Analyses indicated a relatively consistent pattern of functional connectivity between RSFC and MACM that was distinct from that identified by SC. Notably, results indicate that the seed is functionally connected to areas involved in visuomotor control and executive functions, suggesting that the dPMC acts as an interface between motor control and cognition. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Crystal structure and activity studies of the C11 cysteine peptidase from Parabacteroides merdae in the human gut microbiome

DOE PAGES

McLuskey, Karen; Grewal, Jaspreet S.; Das, Debanu; ...

2016-03-03

Clan CD cysteine peptidases, a structurally related group of peptidases that include mammalian caspases, exhibit a wide range of important functions, along with a variety of specificities and activation mechanisms. However, for the clostripain family (denoted C11), little is currently known. Here, we describe the first crystal structure of a C11 protein from the human gut bacterium, Parabacteroides merdae (PmC11), determined to 1.7-Å resolution. PmC11 is a monomeric cysteine peptidase that comprises an extended caspase-like α/β/α sandwich and an unusual C-terminal domain. It shares core structural elements with clan CD cysteine peptidases but otherwise structurally differs from the other familiesmore » in the clan. These studies also revealed a well ordered break in the polypeptide chain at Lys 147, resulting in a large conformational rearrangement close to the active site. Biochemical and kinetic analysis revealed Lys 147 to be an intramolecular processing site at which cleavage is required for full activation of the enzyme, suggesting an autoinhibitory mechanism for self-preservation. PmC11 has an acidic binding pocket and a preference for basic substrates, and accepts substrates with Arg and Lys in P1 and does not require Ca 2+ for activity. Altogether, these data provide insights into the mechanism and activity of PmC11 and a detailed framework for studies on C11 peptidases from other phylogenetic kingdoms.« less

Micrometric precision of prosthetic dental crowns obtained by optical scanning and computer-aided designing/computer-aided manufacturing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

das Neves, Flávio Domingues; de Almeida Prado Naves Carneiro, Thiago; do Prado, Célio Jesus; Prudente, Marcel Santana; Zancopé, Karla; Davi, Letícia Resende; Mendonça, Gustavo; Soares, Carlos José

2014-08-01

The current study evaluated prosthetic dental crowns obtained by optical scanning and a computer-aided designing/computer-aided manufacturing system using micro-computed tomography to compare the marginal fit. The virtual models were obtained with four different scanning surfaces: typodont (T), regular impressions (RI), master casts (MC), and powdered master casts (PMC). Five virtual models were obtained for each group. For each model, a crown was designed on the software and milled from feldspathic ceramic blocks. Micro-CT images were obtained for marginal gap measurements and the data were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's test. The mean vertical misfit was T=62.6±65.2 μm; MC=60.4±38.4 μm; PMC=58.1±38.0 μm, and RI=89.8±62.8 μm. Considering a percentage of vertical marginal gap of up to 75 μm, the results were T=71.5%, RI=49.2%, MC=69.6%, and PMC=71.2%. The percentages of horizontal overextension were T=8.5%, RI=0%, MC=0.8%, and PMC=3.8%. Based on the results, virtual model acquisition by scanning the typodont (simulated mouth) or MC, with or without powder, showed acceptable values for the marginal gap. The higher result of marginal gap of the RI group suggests that it is preferable to scan this directly from the mouth or from MC.

2D-pattern matching image and video compression: theory, algorithms, and experiments.

PubMed

Alzina, Marc; Szpankowski, Wojciech; Grama, Ananth

2002-01-01

In this paper, we propose a lossy data compression framework based on an approximate two-dimensional (2D) pattern matching (2D-PMC) extension of the Lempel-Ziv (1977, 1978) lossless scheme. This framework forms the basis upon which higher level schemes relying on differential coding, frequency domain techniques, prediction, and other methods can be built. We apply our pattern matching framework to image and video compression and report on theoretical and experimental results. Theoretically, we show that the fixed database model used for video compression leads to suboptimal but computationally efficient performance. The compression ratio of this model is shown to tend to the generalized entropy. For image compression, we use a growing database model for which we provide an approximate analysis. The implementation of 2D-PMC is a challenging problem from the algorithmic point of view. We use a range of techniques and data structures such as k-d trees, generalized run length coding, adaptive arithmetic coding, and variable and adaptive maximum distortion level to achieve good compression ratios at high compression speeds. We demonstrate bit rates in the range of 0.25-0.5 bpp for high-quality images and data rates in the range of 0.15-0.5 Mbps for a baseline video compression scheme that does not use any prediction or interpolation. We also demonstrate that this asymmetric compression scheme is capable of extremely fast decompression making it particularly suitable for networked multimedia applications.

Latent uncertainties of the precalculated track Monte Carlo method

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

Renaud, Marc-André; Seuntjens, Jan; Roberge, David

Purpose: While significant progress has been made in speeding up Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculation methods, they remain too time-consuming for the purpose of inverse planning. To achieve clinically usable calculation speeds, a precalculated Monte Carlo (PMC) algorithm for proton and electron transport was developed to run on graphics processing units (GPUs). The algorithm utilizes pregenerated particle track data from conventional MC codes for different materials such as water, bone, and lung to produce dose distributions in voxelized phantoms. While PMC methods have been described in the past, an explicit quantification of the latent uncertainty arising from the limited numbermore » of unique tracks in the pregenerated track bank is missing from the paper. With a proper uncertainty analysis, an optimal number of tracks in the pregenerated track bank can be selected for a desired dose calculation uncertainty. Methods: Particle tracks were pregenerated for electrons and protons using EGSnrc and GEANT4 and saved in a database. The PMC algorithm for track selection, rotation, and transport was implemented on the Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) 4.0 programming framework. PMC dose distributions were calculated in a variety of media and compared to benchmark dose distributions simulated from the corresponding general-purpose MC codes in the same conditions. A latent uncertainty metric was defined and analysis was performed by varying the pregenerated track bank size and the number of simulated primary particle histories and comparing dose values to a “ground truth” benchmark dose distribution calculated to 0.04% average uncertainty in voxels with dose greater than 20% of D{sub max}. Efficiency metrics were calculated against benchmark MC codes on a single CPU core with no variance reduction. Results: Dose distributions generated using PMC and benchmark MC codes were compared and found to be within 2% of each other in voxels with dose values greater than 20% of the maximum dose. In proton calculations, a small (≤1 mm) distance-to-agreement error was observed at the Bragg peak. Latent uncertainty was characterized for electrons and found to follow a Poisson distribution with the number of unique tracks per energy. A track bank of 12 energies and 60000 unique tracks per pregenerated energy in water had a size of 2.4 GB and achieved a latent uncertainty of approximately 1% at an optimal efficiency gain over DOSXYZnrc. Larger track banks produced a lower latent uncertainty at the cost of increased memory consumption. Using an NVIDIA GTX 590, efficiency analysis showed a 807 × efficiency increase over DOSXYZnrc for 16 MeV electrons in water and 508 × for 16 MeV electrons in bone. Conclusions: The PMC method can calculate dose distributions for electrons and protons to a statistical uncertainty of 1% with a large efficiency gain over conventional MC codes. Before performing clinical dose calculations, models to calculate dose contributions from uncharged particles must be implemented. Following the successful implementation of these models, the PMC method will be evaluated as a candidate for inverse planning of modulated electron radiation therapy and scanned proton beams.« less

Latent uncertainties of the precalculated track Monte Carlo method.

PubMed

Renaud, Marc-André; Roberge, David; Seuntjens, Jan

2015-01-01

While significant progress has been made in speeding up Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculation methods, they remain too time-consuming for the purpose of inverse planning. To achieve clinically usable calculation speeds, a precalculated Monte Carlo (PMC) algorithm for proton and electron transport was developed to run on graphics processing units (GPUs). The algorithm utilizes pregenerated particle track data from conventional MC codes for different materials such as water, bone, and lung to produce dose distributions in voxelized phantoms. While PMC methods have been described in the past, an explicit quantification of the latent uncertainty arising from the limited number of unique tracks in the pregenerated track bank is missing from the paper. With a proper uncertainty analysis, an optimal number of tracks in the pregenerated track bank can be selected for a desired dose calculation uncertainty. Particle tracks were pregenerated for electrons and protons using EGSnrc and geant4 and saved in a database. The PMC algorithm for track selection, rotation, and transport was implemented on the Compute Unified Device Architecture (cuda) 4.0 programming framework. PMC dose distributions were calculated in a variety of media and compared to benchmark dose distributions simulated from the corresponding general-purpose MC codes in the same conditions. A latent uncertainty metric was defined and analysis was performed by varying the pregenerated track bank size and the number of simulated primary particle histories and comparing dose values to a "ground truth" benchmark dose distribution calculated to 0.04% average uncertainty in voxels with dose greater than 20% of Dmax. Efficiency metrics were calculated against benchmark MC codes on a single CPU core with no variance reduction. Dose distributions generated using PMC and benchmark MC codes were compared and found to be within 2% of each other in voxels with dose values greater than 20% of the maximum dose. In proton calculations, a small (≤ 1 mm) distance-to-agreement error was observed at the Bragg peak. Latent uncertainty was characterized for electrons and found to follow a Poisson distribution with the number of unique tracks per energy. A track bank of 12 energies and 60000 unique tracks per pregenerated energy in water had a size of 2.4 GB and achieved a latent uncertainty of approximately 1% at an optimal efficiency gain over DOSXYZnrc. Larger track banks produced a lower latent uncertainty at the cost of increased memory consumption. Using an NVIDIA GTX 590, efficiency analysis showed a 807 × efficiency increase over DOSXYZnrc for 16 MeV electrons in water and 508 × for 16 MeV electrons in bone. The PMC method can calculate dose distributions for electrons and protons to a statistical uncertainty of 1% with a large efficiency gain over conventional MC codes. Before performing clinical dose calculations, models to calculate dose contributions from uncharged particles must be implemented. Following the successful implementation of these models, the PMC method will be evaluated as a candidate for inverse planning of modulated electron radiation therapy and scanned proton beams.

Interference of peritoneal dialysis fluids with cell cycle mechanisms.

PubMed

Büchel, Janine; Bartosova, Maria; Eich, Gwendolyn; Wittenberger, Timo; Klein-Hitpass, Ludger; Steppan, Sonja; Hackert, Thilo; Schaefer, Franz; Passlick-Deetjen, Jutta; Schmitt, Claus P

2015-01-01

Peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDF) differ with respect to osmotic and buffer compound, and pH and glucose degradation products (GDP) content. The impact on peritoneal membrane integrity is still insufficiently described. We assessed global genomic effects of PDF in primary human peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMC) by whole genome analyses, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and functional measurements. PMC isolated from omentum of non-uremic patients were incubated with conventional single chamber PDF (CPDF), lactate- (LPDF), bicarbonate- (BPDF) and bicarbonate/lactate-buffered double-chamber PDF (BLPDF), icodextrin (IPDF) and amino acid PDF (APDF), diluted 1:1 with medium. Affymetrix GeneChip U133Plus2.0 (Affymetrix, CA, USA) and quantitative RT-PCR were applied; cell viability was assessed by proliferation assays. The number of differentially expressed genes compared to medium was 464 with APDF, 208 with CPDF, 169 with IPDF, 71 with LPDF, 45 with BPDF and 42 with BLPDF. Out of these genes 74%, 73%, 79%, 72%, 47% and 57% were downregulated. Gene Ontology (GO) term annotations mainly revealed associations with cell cycle (p = 10(-35)), cell division, mitosis, and DNA replication. One hundred and eighteen out of 249 probe sets detecting genes involved in cell cycle/division were suppressed, with APDF-treated PMC being affected the most regarding absolute number and degree, followed by CPDF and IPDF. Bicarbonate-containing PDF and BLPDF-treated PMC were affected the least. Quantitative RT-PCR measurements confirmed microarray findings for key cell cycle genes (CDK1/CCNB1/CCNE2/AURKA/KIF11/KIF14). Suppression was lowest for BPDF and BLPDF, they upregulated CCNE2 and SMC4. All PDF upregulated 3 out of 4 assessed cell cycle repressors (p53/BAX/p21). Cell viability scores confirmed gene expression results, being 79% of medium for LPDF, 101% for BLPDF, 51% for CPDF and 23% for IPDF. Amino acid-containing PDF (84%) incubated cells were as viable as BPDF (86%). In conclusion, PD solutions substantially differ with regard to their gene regulating profile and impact on vital functions of PMC, i.e. on cells known to be essential for peritoneal membrane homeostasis. Copyright © 2015 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis.

Interference of Peritoneal Dialysis Fluids with Cell Cycle Mechanisms

PubMed Central

Büchel, Janine; Bartosova, Maria; Eich, Gwendolyn; Wittenberger, Timo; Klein-Hitpass, Ludger; Steppan, Sonja; Hackert, Thilo; Schaefer, Franz; Passlick-Deetjen, Jutta; Schmitt, Claus P.

2015-01-01

♦ Introduction: Peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDF) differ with respect to osmotic and buffer compound, and pH and glucose degradation products (GDP) content. The impact on peritoneal membrane integrity is still insufficiently described. We assessed global genomic effects of PDF in primary human peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMC) by whole genome analyses, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and functional measurements. ♦ Methods: PMC isolated from omentum of non-uremic patients were incubated with conventional single chamber PDF (CPDF), lactate- (LPDF), bicarbonate- (BPDF) and bicarbonate/lactate-buffered double-chamber PDF (BLPDF), icodextrin (IPDF) and amino acid PDF (APDF), diluted 1:1 with medium. Affymetrix GeneChip U133Plus2.0 (Affymetrix, CA, USA) and quantitative RT-PCR were applied; cell viability was assessed by proliferation assays. ♦ Results: The number of differentially expressed genes compared to medium was 464 with APDF, 208 with CPDF, 169 with IPDF, 71 with LPDF, 45 with BPDF and 42 with BLPDF. Out of these genes 74%, 73%, 79%, 72%, 47% and 57% were downregulated. Gene Ontology (GO) term annotations mainly revealed associations with cell cycle (p = 10-35), cell division, mitosis, and DNA replication. One hundred and eighteen out of 249 probe sets detecting genes involved in cell cycle/division were suppressed, with APDF-treated PMC being affected the most regarding absolute number and degree, followed by CPDF and IPDF. Bicarbonate-containing PDF and BLPDF-treated PMC were affected the least. Quantitative RT-PCR measurements confirmed microarray findings for key cell cycle genes (CDK1/CCNB1/CCNE2/AURKA/KIF11/KIF14). Suppression was lowest for BPDF and BLPDF, they upregulated CCNE2 and SMC4. All PDF upregulated 3 out of 4 assessed cell cycle repressors (p53/BAX/p21). Cell viability scores confirmed gene expression results, being 79% of medium for LPDF, 101% for BLPDF, 51% for CPDF and 23% for IPDF. Amino acid-containing PDF (84%) incubated cells were as viable as BPDF (86%). ♦ Conclusion: In conclusion, PD solutions substantially differ with regard to their gene regulating profile and impact on vital functions of PMC, i.e. on cells known to be essential for peritoneal membrane homeostasis. PMID:25082841

Measurements of Erosion Wear Volume Loss on Bare and Coated Polymer Matrix Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miyoshi, Kazuhisa; Sutter, James K.; Mondry, Richard J.; Bowman, Cheryl; Ma, Kong; Horan, Richard A.; Naik, Subhash K.; Cupp, Randall J.

2003-01-01

An investigation was conducted to examine the erosion behavior of uncoated and coated polymer matrix composite (PMC) specimens subjected to solid particle impingement using air jets. The PMCs were carbon-Kevlar (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) fiber-epoxy resin composites with a temperature capability up to 393 K (248 F). Tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-Co) was the primary topcoat constituent. Bondcoats were applied to the PMC substrates to improve coating adhesion; then, erosion testing was performed at the University of Cincinnati. All erosion tests were conducted with Arizona road-dust (ARD), impinging at angles of 20 and 90 on both uncoated and two-layer coated PMCs at a velocity of 229 m/s and at a temperature of 366 K (200 F). ARD contains primarily 10-m aluminum oxide powders. Vertically scanning interference microscopy (noncontact, optical profilometry) was used to evaluate surface characteristics, such as erosion wear volume loss and depth, surface topography, and surface roughness. The results indicate that noncontact, optical interferometry can be used to make an accurate determination of the erosion wear volume loss of PMCs with multilayered structures while preserving the specimens. The two-layered (WC-Co topcoat and metal bondcoat) coatings on PMCs remarkably reduced the erosion volume loss by a factor of approximately 10. The tenfold increase in erosion resistance will contribute to longer PMC component lives, lower air friction, reduced related breakdowns, decreased maintenance costs, and increased PMC reliability. The decrease in the surface roughness of the coated vanes will lead to lower air friction and will subsequently reduce energy consumption. Eventually, the coatings could lead to overall economic savings.

An RGDS peptide-binding receptor, FR-1R, localizes to the basal side of the ectoderm and to primary mesenchyme cells in sand dollar embryos.

PubMed

Katow, H; Sofuku, S

2001-10-01

Immunoblotting using polyclonal antibodies (pAb) raised against an FR-1 receptor (FR-1R), a 57 kDa Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (RGDS)-binding protein, of the sand dollar Clypeaster japonicus showed that the pAb monospecifically bound to the protein. FR-1R was present in purified plasma membrane, suggesting that the protein is a membrane-bound protein. The molecular structure of FR-1R did not change throughout the early embryogenesis, whereas its expression changed significantly during this period. FR-1R was present in the cortex of unfertilized eggs and was then transferred to the hyaline layer soon after the fertilization. The hyaline layer retained FR-1R immunoreactivity during early embryogenesis. FR-1R appeared on the basal side of the ectoderm at the morula stage and was retained basolaterally, at least, to the early gastrula stage. In mesenchyme blastulae, FR-1R was also present on the surface of primary mesenchyme cells (PMC). FR-1R was localized on the basal side of the ectoderm in early gastrulae, exclusively at the place where PMC formed ventrolateral aggregates, and at the apical tuft ectoderm. In vitro, PMC bound to FR-1R and its binding was inhibited in the presence of a synthetic RGDS peptide or the pAb. The pAb introduced into the blastocoele perturbed PMC migration and gastrulation. FR-1R was weakly recognized by antihuman integrin beta5 subunit pAb.

Reduced posterior mesofrontal cortex activation by risky rewards in substance-dependent patients.

PubMed

Bjork, James M; Momenan, Reza; Smith, Ashley R; Hommer, Daniel W

2008-05-01

Substance-dependent individuals show disadvantageous decision-making, as well as alterated frontocortical recruitment when performing experimental tasks. We investigated whether substance-dependent patients (SDP) would show blunted recruitment of posterior mesofrontal cortex (PMC) by a conflict between concurrently increasing reward and risk of penalty in a monetary game of "chicken." SDP and controls performed: motor control (no reward) trials, guaranteed reward trials in which reward was not at risk, and risky trials where subjects were required to terminate their reward accrual before a secret varying time limit or else "bust" and forfeit that trial's winnings (low penalty) or the current trial's winnings plus an equal amount of previous winnings (high penalty). Reward accrual duration at risk of "busting" correlated negatively with trait neuroticism. The contrast between winning guaranteed reward versus non-reward activated the caudate head bilaterally in SDP but not controls. Accumulation of money at risk of low- or high-penalty (contrasted with accumulating guaranteed money) activated the PMC in both groups, but with a greater magnitude and more anterior extent in controls. Pre-decision signal increase in a PMC volume of interest negatively correlated with risk-taking in low-penalty trials, and was blunted in SDP relative to controls under both penalty conditions after controlling for individual differences in actual risk-taking and the higher neuroticism of SDP. These data suggest that SDP are characterized by a combination of: (a) striatal hypersensitivity to reward, and (b) under-recruitment of the specialized conflict-monitoring circuitry of the PMC when reward entails potential penalties.

The Relationship of Intellectual Functioning and Cognitive Performance to Brain Structure in Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Wang, Lei; Gama, Clarissa S.; Barch, Deanna M.

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: Schizophrenia (SZ) is often characterized by cognitive and intellectual impairment. However, there is much heterogeneity across individuals, suggesting different trajectories of the illness. Recent findings have shown brain volume differences across subgroups of individuals with psychosis (SZ and bipolar disorder), such that those with intellectual and cognitive impairments presented evidence of early cerebral disruption, while those with cognitive but not intellectual impairments showed evidence of progressive brain abnormalities. Our aim was to investigate the relations of cognition and intellectual functioning with brain structure abnormalities in a sample of SZ compared to unaffected individuals. Methods: 92 individuals with SZ and 94 healthy controls part of the Northwestern University Schizophrenia Data and Software Tool (NUSDAST) underwent neuropsychological assessment and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Individuals with SZ were divided into subgroups according their estimated premorbid crystallized intellectual (ePMC-IQ) and cognitive performance. Brain volumes differences were investigated across groups. Results: SZ with ePMC-IQ and cognitive impairments had reduced total brain volume (TBV), intracranial volume (ICV), TBV corrected for ICV, and cortical gray matter volume, as well as reduced cortical thickness, and insula volumes. SZ with cognitive impairment but intact ePMC-IQ showed only reduced cortical gray matter volume and cortical thickness. Conclusions: These data provide additional evidence for heterogeneity in SZ. Impairments in cognition associated with reduced ePMC-IQ were related to evidence of broad brain structural alterations, including suggestion of early cerebral disruption. In contrast, impaired cognitive functioning in the context of more intact intellectual functioning was associated with cortical alterations that may reflect neurodegeneration. PMID:27369471

DNA motif alignment by evolving a population of Markov chains.

PubMed

Bi, Chengpeng

2009-01-30

Deciphering cis-regulatory elements or de novo motif-finding in genomes still remains elusive although much algorithmic effort has been expended. The Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method such as Gibbs motif samplers has been widely employed to solve the de novo motif-finding problem through sequence local alignment. Nonetheless, the MCMC-based motif samplers still suffer from local maxima like EM. Therefore, as a prerequisite for finding good local alignments, these motif algorithms are often independently run a multitude of times, but without information exchange between different chains. Hence it would be worth a new algorithm design enabling such information exchange. This paper presents a novel motif-finding algorithm by evolving a population of Markov chains with information exchange (PMC), each of which is initialized as a random alignment and run by the Metropolis-Hastings sampler (MHS). It is progressively updated through a series of local alignments stochastically sampled. Explicitly, the PMC motif algorithm performs stochastic sampling as specified by a population-based proposal distribution rather than individual ones, and adaptively evolves the population as a whole towards a global maximum. The alignment information exchange is accomplished by taking advantage of the pooled motif site distributions. A distinct method for running multiple independent Markov chains (IMC) without information exchange, or dubbed as the IMC motif algorithm, is also devised to compare with its PMC counterpart. Experimental studies demonstrate that the performance could be improved if pooled information were used to run a population of motif samplers. The new PMC algorithm was able to improve the convergence and outperformed other popular algorithms tested using simulated and biological motif sequences.

A morphological study of the pacemaker cells of the aganglionic intestine in Hirschsprung's disease utilizing ls/ls model mice.

PubMed

Taniguchi, Kan; Matsuura, Kimio; Matsuoka, Takanori; Nakatani, Hajime; Nakano, Takumi; Furuya, Yasuo; Sugimoto, Takeki; Kobayashi, Michiya; Araki, Keijiro

2005-06-01

Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital aganglionic neural disorder of the segmental distal intestine characterized by unsettled pathogenesis. The relationship between Hirschsprung's disease and pacemaker cells (PMC), which almost corresponds to that of the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), was morphologically observed at the level of the intermuscular layer corresponding to Auerbach's plexus using ls/ls mice. These mice are an ideal model because of their large intestinal aganglionosis and gene abnormalities, which are similar to the human form of the disease. Immunostaining using anti-c-kit receptor antibody (ACK2), a marker of PMC, applied to whole-mount muscle-layer specimens, revealed the presence of c-kit immunopositive multipolar cells with many cytoplasmic processes in normal mice. For ls/ls mice, however, there were significantly fewer processes. The average number of processes per positive cell of 2.5 for the aganglionic large intestine was fewer than 3.5 for the large and small intestine of normal mice, indicating the inability to form connections between nerves and PMC in the aganglionic intestine. For normal mice with an Auerbach's plexus, the process attachment of ICC to the Auerbach's plexus was observed by scanning electron microscopy. However, for ls/ls mice no attachment to the intermuscular nerve without Auerbach's plexus was found, although transmission electron microscopy showed no difference in the cell structure and organelles of the c-kit immunopositive cells between the normal and ls/ls mice. These findings suggest that in the aganglionic intestine of Hirschsprung's disease, aplasia of enteric ganglia induces secondary disturbances during the normal development of intestinal PMC.

Biodegradation of Poly(butylene succinate) Powder in a Controlled Compost at 58 °C Evaluated by Naturally-Occurring Carbon 14 Amounts in Evolved CO2 Based on the ISO 14855-2 Method

PubMed Central

Kunioka, Masao; Ninomiya, Fumi; Funabashi, Masahiro

2009-01-01

The biodegradabilities of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) powders in a controlled compost at 58 °C have been studied using a Microbial Oxidative Degradation Analyzer (MODA) based on the ISO 14855-2 method, entitled “Determination of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions—Method by analysis of evolved carbon dioxide—Part 2: Gravimetric measurement of carbon dioxide evolved in a laboratory-scale test”. The evolved CO2 was trapped by an additional aqueous Ba(OH)2 solution. The trapped BaCO3 was transformed into graphite via a serial vaporization and reduction reaction using a gas-tight tube and vacuum manifold system. This graphite was analyzed by accelerated mass spectrometry (AMS) to determine the percent modern carbon [pMC (sample)] based on the 14C radiocarbon concentration. By using the theory that pMC (sample) was the sum of the pMC (compost) (109.87%) and pMC (PBS) (0%) as the respective ratio in the determined period, the CO2 (respiration) was calculated from only one reaction vessel. It was found that the biodegradabilities determined by the CO2 amount from PBS in the sample vessel were about 30% lower than those based on the ISO method. These differences between the ISO and AMS methods are caused by the fact that part of the carbons from PBS are changed into metabolites by the microorganisms in the compost, and not changed into CO2. PMID:20057944

Erosion Resistant Coatings for Polymer Matrix Composites in Propulsion Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutter, James K.; Naik, Subhash K.; Horan, Richard; Miyoshi, Kazuhisa; Bowman, Cheryl; Ma, Kong; Leissler, George; Sinatra, Raymond; Cupp, Randall

2003-01-01

Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs) offer lightweight and frequently low cost alternatives to other materials in many applications. High temperature PMCs are currently used in limited propulsion applications replacing metals. Yet in most cases, PMC propulsion applications are not in the direct engine flow path since particulate erosion degrades PMC component performance and therefore restricts their use in gas turbine engines. This paper compares two erosion resistant coatings (SANRES and SANPRES) on PMCs that are useful for both low and high temperature propulsion applications. Collaborating over a multi-year period, researchers at NASA Glenn Research Center, Allison Advanced Developed Company, and Rolls-Royce Corporation have optimized these coatings in terms of adhesion, surface roughness, and erosion resistance. Results are described for vigorous hot gas/particulate erosion rig and engine testing of uncoated and coated PMC fan bypass vanes from the AE 3007 regional jet gas turbine engine. Moreover, the structural durability of these coatings is described in long-term high cycle fatigue tests. Overall, both coatings performed well in all tests and will be considered for applications in both commercial and defense propulsion applications.

Nitrogen-Doped Mesoporous Carbon: A Top-Down Strategy to Promote Sulfur Immobilization for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaohui; Liu, Ying; Manuel, James; Chauhan, Ghanshyam S; Ahn, Hyo-Jun; Kim, Ki-Won; Cho, Kwon-Koo; Ahn, Jou-Hyeon

2015-10-12

The loss of active sulfur material is a challenge in the application of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. To immobilize sulfur, a nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (PMC) was synthesized with polyaniline (PANi) as the carbon source, which was used for development of Li-S batteries. The nitrogen content and pore system of the PMCs were modulated by varying the pyrolysis temperature to impart good electrochemical properties to the Li-S cells. As a result, the optimal capacity reversibility was obtained with the PMC synthesized at 700 °C that consisted of 12.8 % nitrogen. The enhanced cycle performance of Li-S cells was also validated at high sulfur contents up to 70 % and high C-rates up to 2 C. Furthermore, such sulfur/PMC cathodes could alleviate volume expansion during the discharge process. The results suggest that our synthesized nitrogen-doped PMCs prepared by this top-down strategy are promising materials to immobilize active sulfur in Li-S batteries. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Strategies for the solid-phase diversification of poly-L-proline-type II peptide mimic scaffolds and peptide scaffolds through guanidinylation.

PubMed

Flemer, Stevenson; Wurthmann, Alexander; Mamai, Ahmed; Madalengoitia, José S

2008-10-03

A strategy for the solid-phase diversification of PPII mimic scaffolds through guanidinylation is presented. The approach involves the synthesis N-Pmc-N'-alkyl thioureas as diversification reagents. Analogues of Fmoc-Orn(Mtt)-OH can be incorporated into a growing peptide chain on Wang resin. Side chain deprotection with 1% TFA/CH2Cl2 followed by EDCI-mediated reaction of N-Pmc-N'-alkyl thioureas with the side chain amine affords arginine analogues with modified guanidine head groups. The scope, limitations, and incidental chemistry are discussed.

Numerical electromagnetic frequency domain analysis with discrete exterior calculus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Shu C.; Chew, Weng Cho

2017-12-01

In this paper, we perform a numerical analysis in frequency domain for various electromagnetic problems based on discrete exterior calculus (DEC) with an arbitrary 2-D triangular or 3-D tetrahedral mesh. We formulate the governing equations in terms of DEC for 3-D and 2-D inhomogeneous structures, and also show that the charge continuity relation is naturally satisfied. Then we introduce a general construction for signed dual volume to incorporate material information and take into account the case when circumcenters fall outside triangles or tetrahedrons, which may lead to negative dual volume without Delaunay triangulation. Then we examine the boundary terms induced by the dual mesh and provide a systematical treatment of various boundary conditions, including perfect magnetic conductor (PMC), perfect electric conductor (PEC), Dirichlet, periodic, and absorbing boundary conditions (ABC) within this method. An excellent agreement is achieved through the numerical calculation of several problems, including homogeneous waveguides, microstructured fibers, photonic crystals, scattering by a 2-D PEC, and resonant cavities.

First-principles calculations of phonons and Raman and infrared spectra in Cd-IV-N2 compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyu, Sai; Lambrecht, Walter R. L.

2018-05-01

A first-principles study of the phonons at the zone center in Cd-IV-N2 compounds is presented with IV = Si, Ge, Sn. The calculations are performed for the most likely Pbn21 crystal structure, after showing that it is indeed lower in total energy compared to the closely related Pmc21 structure. The normal mode frequencies are calculated using density functional perturbation theory and symmetry labeled. The longitudinal optical-transverse optical splittings are determined using the Born effective charges which are also reported. These are used to simulate polarized Raman spectra for different scattering configurations as well as the infrared absorption and reflection spectra. The mode frequencies are found to decrease from Si to Ge to Sn as group-IV cation. The spectra show a wide variety of number of prominent peaks and relative intensities in spite of the great similarities of these three materials. Phonon densities of states and their analysis in atom by atom contributions are also reported.

Geomagnetic and solar activity dependence of ionospheric upflowing O+: FAST observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, K.; Jiang, Y.; Chen, K. W.; Huang, L. F.

2016-09-01

This paper investigates the dependence of the occurrence frequency of ionospheric upflowing oxygen (O+) ions on the sunspot cycle and geomagnetic activity. We examine the upflows response to the geomagnetic disturbances as well as the influence of the ion energy factor in controlling the magnitude of the occurrence frequency and the net energy flux. We discuss the spatial distribution of the upflow occurrence frequency and construct a regression model as a function of the magnetic latitude. The results show an overall enhancement of the upflow occurrence frequency during magnetically disturbed periods and indicate that the high-occurrence area spreads out from the source regions during magnetically quiet periods. The high-occurrence areas are located at 70° magnetic latitude (mLat) in the dayside auroral oval zone and between 76-80° mLat in the dayside polar cusp region. In the nightside auroral oval zone, these areas are near 60° mLat, penetrating further equatorward to 55° mLat during magnetically disturbed periods. High energy (≥1 keV) upflowing ions are common in the nightside auroral oval zone while low energy (<1 keV) upflowing ions are found escaping from the high latitude dayside cusp region. A Gaussian function is shown to be a good fit to the occurrence frequency over the magnetic latitude. For high energy upflowing O+ ions, the occurrence frequency exhibits a single peak located at about 60° mLat in the nightside auroral oval zone while for low energy upflowing O+ ions, it exhibits two peaks, one near 60° mLat in the auroral oval zone and the other near 78° mLat in the cusp region. We study the solar activity dependence by analyzing the relationship between the upflow occurrence frequency and the sunspot number (RZ). The statistical result shows that the frequency decreases with declining solar activity level, from ˜30 % at solar maximum to ˜5 % at solar minimum. In addition, the correlation coefficient between the occurrence frequency and RZ is 0.9.

Predictors of seizure occurrence in children undergoing pre-surgical monitoring.

PubMed

Harini, Chellamani; Singh, Kanwaljit; Takeoka, Masanori; Parulkar, Isha; Bergin, Ann Marie; Loddenkemper, Tobias; Kothare, Sanjeev V

2013-10-01

Long-Term-Monitoring (LTM) is a valuable tool for seizure localization/lateralization among children with refractory-epilepsy undergoing pre-surgical-monitoring. The aim of this study was to examine the factors predicting occurrence of single/multiple seizures in children undergoing pre-surgical monitoring in the LTM unit. Chart review was done on 95 consecutive admissions on 92 children (40 females) admitted to the LTM-unit for pre-surgical workup. Relationship between occurrence of multiple (≥ 3) seizures and factors such as home seizure-frequency, demographics, MRI-lesions/seizure-type and localization/AED usage/neurological-exam/epilepsy-duration was evaluated by logistic-regression and survival-analysis. Home seizure-frequency was further categorized into low (up-to 1/month), medium (up-to 1/week) and high (>1/week) and relationship of these categories to the occurrence of multiple seizures was evaluated. Mean length of stay was 5.24 days in all 3 groups. Home seizure frequency was the only factor predicting the occurrence of single/multiple seizures in children undergoing presurgical workup. Other factors (age/sex/MRI-lesions/seizure-type and localization/AED-usage/neurological-exam/epilepsy-duration) did not affect occurrence of single/multiple seizures or time-to-occurrence of first/second seizure. Analysis of the home-seizure frequency categories revealed that 98% admissions in high-frequency, 94% in the medium, and 77% in low-frequency group had at-least 1 seizure recorded during the monitoring. Odds of first-seizure increased in high vs. low-frequency group (p=0.01). Eighty-nine percent admissions in high-frequency, 78% in medium frequency, versus 50% in low-frequency group had ≥ 3 seizures. The odds of having ≥ 3 seizures increased in high-frequency (p=0.0005) and in medium-frequency (p=0.007), compared to low-frequency group. Mean time-to-first-seizure was 2.7 days in low-frequency, 2.1 days in medium, and 2 days in high-frequency group. Time-to-first-seizure in high and medium-frequency was less than in low-frequency group (p<0.0014 and p=0.038). Majority of the admissions (92%) admitted to the LTM-unit for pre-surgical workup had at-least one seizure during a mean length of stay of 5.24 days. Home seizure-frequency was the only predictor influencing occurrence of single/multiple seizures in the LTM unit. Patients with low seizure-frequency are at risk for completing the monitoring with less than the optimum number (<3) of seizures captured. Copyright © 2013 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Altered Brain Long-Range Functional Interactions Underlying the Link Between Aberrant Self-experience and Self-other Relationship in First-Episode Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Ebisch, Sjoerd J. H.; Mantini, Dante; Northoff, Georg; Salone, Anatolia; De Berardis, Domenico; Ferri, Francesca; Ferro, Filippo M.; Di Giannantonio, Massimo; Romani, Gian L.; Gallese, Vittorio

2014-01-01

Self-experience anomalies are elementary features of schizophrenic pathology. Such deficits can have a profound impact on self-other relationship, but how they are related through aberrant brain function remains poorly understood. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we provide new evidence for a cortical link between aberrant self-experience and social cognition in first-episode schizophrenia (FES). As identified in previous studies, ventral premotor cortex (vPMC) and posterior insula (pIC) are candidate brain regions underlying disturbances in both self-experience and self-other relationship due to their processing of predominantly externally guided (vPMC; goal-oriented behavior) and internally guided (pIC; interoception) stimuli. Results from functional interaction analysis in a sample of 24 FES patients and 22 healthy controls show aberrant functional interactions (background/intrinsic connectivity) of right vPMC and bilateral pIC with posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), a midline region that has been shown central in mediating self-experience. More specifically, our results show increased functional coupling between vPMC and PCC, which positively correlated with basic symptoms (subjective self-experience disturbances). pIC showed reduced functional coupling with PCC and postcentral gyrus and increased functional interactions with anterior insula. Taken together, our results suggest an imbalance in the processing between internally and externally guided information and its abnormal integration with self-referential processing as mediated by PCC. Due to our correlation findings, we suggest this imbalance to be closely related to basic symptoms in FES and thus anomalous self-experience. The findings further disentangle the cortical basis of how self-experience anomalies may pervade the social domain. PMID:24191160

Intestinal and peritoneal mast cells differ in kinetics of quantal release

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

Balseiro-Gomez, Santiago, E-mail: sanbalgom@alum.us.es; Ramirez-Ponce, M. Pilar, E-mail: pponce@us.es; Acosta, Jorge, E-mail: jorgealo@us.es

2016-01-15

5-hydroxytriptamine (5-HT, serotonin) storage and release in mast cell (MC) secretory granules (SG) are dependent on serglycin proteoglycans (PG). This notion is based on the studies of MC of the connective tissue subtype that predominantly contain PG of the heparin type, whereas intestinal mucosal MC, which contain predominantly chondroitin sulfate, have been poorly explored. In the present study, we addressed the possibility that PG contents may differently affect the storage and release of preformed mediators in these two MC subclasses and explain in part their different functional properties. Rat peritoneal (PMC) and intestinal mast cells (IMC) were isolated and purifiedmore » using a percoll gradient, and the efflux of 5-HT from each SG was measured by amperometric detection. IMC exhibited a ∼34% reduction in the release of 5-HT compared with PMC because of a lower number of exocytotic events, rather than a lower secretion per single exocytotic event. Amperometric spikes from IMC exhibited a slower decay phase and increased half-width but a similar ascending phase and foot parameters, indicating that the fusion pore kinetics are comparable in both MC subclasses. We conclude that both PG subtypes are equally efficient systems, directly involved in serotonin accumulation, and play a crucial role in regulating the kinetics of exocytosis from SG, providing specific secretory properties for the two cellular subtypes. - Highlights: • We improved a method for isolating and purifying IMC. • There was a reduction in total serotonin release in IMC with respect to PMC. • This decrease was not due to less secretion per quantum but a lower number of exocytotic events. • There was also a deceleration of exocytosis in IMC with respect to PMC.« less

Roles of the right temporo-parietal and premotor cortices in self-location and body ownership.

PubMed

Convento, Silvia; Romano, Daniele; Maravita, Angelo; Bolognini, Nadia

2018-06-01

In the rubber hand illusion (RHI), the feeling that a fake hand belongs to oneself can be induced by the simultaneous, congruent touch of the fake visible hand and one's own hidden hand. This condition is also associated with a recalibration of the perceived location of the real hand. A cortical network, including premotor and temporo-parietal areas, has been proposed as the basis of the RHI. However, the causal contribution of these areas to the discrete illusory components remains unclear. We used transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to assess the contribution of the right premotor cortex (rPMc) and the right temporo-parietal junction (rTPJ) to the RHI and explored the role of these areas in modulating the subjective experience of embodiment and the misperception of the hand position. We found that anodal tDCS of both rPMc and rTPJ increased the misjudgement of the real hand location towards the fake hand. Crucially, the difference in proprioceptive displacement evoked by the congruent and incongruent visuo-tactile stroking was minimised when tDCS was applied over the rPMc, while it was amplified when the rTPJ was targeted. The parietal effects of tDCS also extended to the self-report components of the RHI. These findings suggest that the tDCS of rTPJ modulates the RHI depending on the temporal congruency of the visuo-tactile stimulation, while the tDCS of rPMc induces a general recalibration of hand coordinates, regardless of the visuo-tactile congruency. The present results are discussed in the view of a multicomponent model of the RHI. © 2018 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Responses to diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis in dairy and non-dairy cattle naturally exposed to Mycobacterium bovis in Great Britain.

PubMed

Downs, S H; Broughan, J M; Goodchild, A V; Upton, P A; Durr, P A

2016-10-01

Field surveillance of British cattle using the single intradermal comparative cervical tuberculin (SICCT) test shows a higher incidence rate of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in dairy compared to beef herds, but a lower probability of post-mortem examination confirmed (PMC) Mycobacterium bovis infection in dairy herds. A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare animal level differences in bTB detection between dairy and non-dairy cattle in Great Britain. During the period from 2002 to 2005, 200 (41% dairy) reactors in the SICCT test (standard interpretation) were randomly selected, and 200 in-contact cattle (43% dairy) were purposively selected from bTB-infected herds. Interferon (IFN)-γ responses in blood to bovine and avian purified protein derivative (PPD), and early secretory antigen target 6 kDa and culture filtrate protein 10 (ESAT-6/CFP10), were measured. The post-mortem examination included gross pathological examination, mycobacterial culture and histopathology. The proportions of cattle positive to ESAT6/CFP10 were 26% (95% confidence interval, CI, 15-39%) in dairy reactors and 62% (95% CI 51-72%) in non-dairy reactors (P <0.001). PMC risk was 34% (95% CI 24-45%) in dairy reactors and 69% (95% CI 60-78%) in non-dairy reactors (P <0.001). The odds ratio for PMC risk in dairy reactors compared to non-dairy reactors, after controlling for bTB prevalence, herd size and SICCT test response, was 0.27 (95% CI 0.14-0.53; P <0.001). In surveillance data, adjusted animal level PMC risks were lower for dairy reactors than for beef reactors aged >2 years (P <0.001). Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stratospheric effects on trends of mesospheric ice clouds (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luebken, F.; Baumgarten, G.; Berger, U.

2009-12-01

Ice layers in the summer mesosphere at middle and polar latitudes appear as `noctilucent clouds' (NLC) and `polar mesosphere clouds'(PMC) when observed by optical methods from the ground or from satellites, respectively. A newly developed model of the atmosphere called LIMA (Leibniz Institute Middle Atmosphere Model) nicely reproduces the mean conditions of the summer mesopause region and is used to study the ice layer morphology (LIMA/ice). LIMA nudges to ECMWF data in the troposphere and lower stratosphere which influences the background conditions in the mesosphere and ice cloud morphology. Since ice layer formation is very sensitive to the thermal structure of the mesopause region the morphology of NLC and PMC is frequently discussed in terms of long term variations. Model runs of LIMA/ice are now available for 1961 until 2008. A strong correlation between temperatures and PMC altitudes is observed. Applied to historical measurements this gives negligible temperature trends at PMC altitudes (approximately 0.01-0.02 K/y). Trace gas concentrations are kept constant in LIMA except for water vapor which is modified by variable solar radiation. Still, long term trends in temperatures and ice layer parameters are observed, consistent with observations. We present results regarding inter-annual variability of upper mesosphere temperatures, water vapor, and ice clouds, and also long term variations. We compare our model results with satellite borne and lidar observations including some record high NLC parameters measured in the summer season of 2009. The latitudinal dependence of trends and ice layer parameters is discussed, including a NH/SH comparison. We will present an explanation of the trends in the background atmosphere and ice layer parameters.

Revised Correlation between Odin/OSIRIS PMC Properties and Coincident TIMED/SABER Mesospheric Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feofilov, A. G.; Petelina, S V.; Kutepov, A. A.; Pesnell, W. D.; Goldberg, R. A.; Llewellyn, E. J.; Russell, J. M.

2006-01-01

The Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging System (OSIRIS) instrument on board the Odin satellite detects Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMCs) through the enhancement in the limb scattered solar radiance. The Sounding of the Atmosphere using the Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument on board the TIMED satellite is a limb scanning infrared radiometer that measures temperature and vertical profiles and energetic parameters for minor constituents in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. The combination of OSIRIS and SABER data has been previously used to statistically derive thermal conditions for PMC existence [Petelina et al., 2005]. In this work, we employ the simultaneous common volume measurements of PMCs by OSIRIS and temperature profiles measured by SABER for the Northern Hemisphere summers of 2002-2005 and corrected in the polar region by accounting for the vibrational-vibrational energy exchange among the CO2 isotopes [Kutepov et al., 2006]. For each of 20 coincidences identified within plus or minus 1 degree latitude, plus or minus 2 degrees longitude and less than 1 hour time the frost point temperatures were calculated using the corresponding SABER temperature profile and water vapor densities of 1,3, and 10 ppmv. We found that the PMC presence and brightness correlated only with the temperature threshold that corresponds to the frost point. The absolute value of the temperature below the frost point, however, didn't play a significant role in the intensity of PMC signal for the majority of selected coincidences. The presence of several bright clouds at temperatures above the frost point is obviously related to the limitation of the limb geometry when some near- or far-field PMCs located at higher (and warmer) altitudes appear to be at lower altitudes.

Revised Correlation between Odin/OSIRIS PMC Properties and Coincident TIMED/SABER Mesospheric Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feofilov, A. G.; Petelina, S. V.; Kutepov, A. A.; Pesnell, W. D.; Goldberg, R. A.; Llewellyn, E. J.; Russell, J. M.

2006-01-01

The Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging System (OSIRIS) instrument on board the Odin satellite detects Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMCs) through the enhancement in the limb-scattered solar radiance. The Sounding of the Atmosphere using the Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument on board the TIMED satellite is a limb scanning infrared radiometer that measures temperature and vertical profiles and energetic parameters for minor constituents in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere. The combination of OSIRIS and SABER data has been previously used to statistically derive thermal conditions for PMC existence [Petelina et al., 2005]. a, A.A. Kutepov, W.D. Pesnell, In this work, we employ the simultaneous common volume measurements of PMCs by OSIRIS and temperature profiles measured by SABER for the Northern Hemisphere summers of 2002-2005 and corrected in the polar region by accounting for the vibrational-vibrational energy exchange among the CO2 isotopes [Kutepov et al., 2006]. For each of 20 coincidences identified within plus or minus 1 degree latitude, plus or minus 2 degrees longitude and less than 1 hour time the frost point temperatures were calculated using the corresponding SABER temperature profile and water vapor densities of 1,3, and 10 ppmv. We found that the PMC presence and brightness correlated only with the temperature threshold that corresponds to the frost point. The absolute value of the temperature below the frost point, however, didn't play a significant role in the intensity of PMC signal for the majority of selected coincidences. The presence of several bright clouds at temperatures above the frost point is obviously related to the limitation of the limb geometry when some near- or far-field PMCs located at higher (and warmer) altitudes appear to be at lower altitudes.

Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Severely Affected Arm-Hand Motor Function in Patients After an Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial.

PubMed

Rabadi, Meheroz H; Aston, Christopher E

2017-10-01

The aim of this article was to determine whether cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (c-tDCS) to unaffected primary motor cortex (PMC) plus conventional occupational therapy (OT) improves functional motor recovery of the affected arm hand in patients after an acute ischemic stroke compared with sham transcranial direct current stimulation plus conventional OT. In this prospective, randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled trial of 16 severe, acute ischemic stroke patients with severe arm-hand weakness were randomly assigned to either experimental (c-tDCS plus OT; n = 8) or control (sham transcranial direct current stimulation plus OT; n = 8) groups. All patients received a standard 3-hr in-patient rehabilitation therapy, plus an additional ten 30-min sessions of tDCS. During each session, 1 mA of cathodal stimulation to the unaffected PMC is performed followed by the patient's scheduled OT. The primary outcome measure was change in Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) total and subscores on discharge. Application of c-tDCS to unaffected PMC resulted in a clinically relevant 10-point improvement in the affected arm-hand function based on ARAT total score compared with a 2-point improvement in the control group. Application of 30-min of c-tDCS to the unaffected PMC showed a 10-point improvement in the ARAT score. This corresponds to a large effect size in improvement of affected arm-hand function in patients with severe, acute ischemic stroke. Although not statistically significant, this suggests that larger studies, enrolling at least 25 patients in each group, and with a longer follow-up are warranted.

Determining the magnitude and direction of photoinduced ligand field switching in photochromic metal-organic complexes: molybdenum-tetracarbonyl spirooxazine complexes.

PubMed

Paquette, Michelle M; Patrick, Brian O; Frank, Natia L

2011-07-06

The ability to optically switch or tune the intrinsic properties of transition metals (e.g., redox potentials, emission/absorption energies, and spin states) with photochromic metal-ligand complexes is an important strategy for developing "smart" materials. We have described a methodology for using metal-carbonyl complexes as spectroscopic probes of ligand field changes associated with light-induced isomerization of photochromic ligands. Changes in ligand field between the ring-closed spirooxazine (SO) and ring-opened photomerocyanine (PMC) forms of photochromic azahomoadamantyl and indolyl phenanthroline-spirooxazine ligands are demonstrated through FT-IR, (13)C NMR, and computational studies of their molybdenum-tetracarbonyl complexes. The frontier molecular orbitals (MOs) of the SO and PMC forms differ considerably in both electron density distributions and energies. Of the multiple π* MOs in the SO and PMC forms of the ligands, the LUMO+1, a pseudo-b(1)-symmetry phenanthroline-based MO, mixes primarily with the Mo(CO)(4) fragment and provides the major pathway for Mo(d)→phen(π*) backbonding. The LUMO+1 is found to be 0.2-0.3 eV lower in energy in the SO form relative to the PMC form, suggesting that the SO form is a better π-acceptor. Light-induced isomerization of the photochromic ligands was therefore found to lead to changes in the energies of their frontier MOs, which in turn leads to changes in π-acceptor ability and ligand field strength. Ligand field changes associated with photoisomerizable ligands allow tuning of excited-state and ground-state energies that dictate energy/electron transfer, optical/electrical properties, and spin states of a metal center upon photoisomerization, positioning photochromic ligand-metal complexes as promising targets for smart materials.

Ground operation of the mobile servicing system on Space Station Freedom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wojcik, Z. A.

1992-11-01

Space Station Freedom (SSF) will be assembled in the 1995 to 2000 time period, when permanently manned capability (PMC) will be achieved. During the build phase and after PMC, the Mobile Servicing System (MSS) will be used as a tool to assist crew in the building and in assembly and all maintenance aspects of SSF. Operation of the MSS will be executed and controlled by on-orbit crew, thereby having an impact on the limited crew time and resources. The current plan specifies that the MSS will not be operable when crew are not present. Simulations have been carried out to quantify the maintenance workload expected over the life of SSF. These simulations predict a peak in maintenance demand occurring even before PMC is achieved. The MSS is key to executing those maintenance tasks, and as a result, the demands on MSS crew resource will likely exceed availability, thereby creating a backlog of maintenance actions and negatively impacting SSF effectiveness. Ground operated telerobotics (GOT), the operation of the MSS from the ground, is being proposed as an approach to reducing the anticipated maintenance backlog, along with reducing crew workload when the MSS is executing simple or repetitive tasks. GOT would be implemented in a phased approach, both in terms of the type of activity carried out and the point of control gradually passing from on-orbit crew to ground personnel. The benefits of GOT are expressed in terms of reduced on-orbit crew workload, greater availability of the MSS during the post-PMC period, and the ability to significantly reduce or even eliminate any maintenance action backlog. The benefits section compares GOT with crew operation timelines, and identifies other benefits of GOT. Critical factors such as safety, space-ground communication latency, simulation, operations planning, and design considerations are reviewed.

Sertoli Cell Wt1 Regulates Peritubular Myoid Cell and Fetal Leydig Cell Differentiation during Fetal Testis Development.

PubMed

Wen, Qing; Wang, Yuqian; Tang, Jixin; Cheng, C Yan; Liu, Yi-Xun

2016-01-01

Sertoli cells play a significant role in regulating fetal testis compartmentalization to generate testis cords and interstitium during development. The Sertoli cell Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) gene, which encodes ~24 zinc finger-containing transcription factors, is known to play a crucial role in fetal testis cord assembly and maintenance. However, whether Wt1 regulates fetal testis compartmentalization by modulating the development of peritubular myoid cells (PMCs) and/or fetal Leydig cells (FLCs) remains unknown. Using a Wt1-/flox; Amh-Cre mouse model by deleting Wt1 in Sertoli cells (Wt1SC-cKO) at embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5), Wt1 was found to regulate PMC and FLC development. Wt1 deletion in fetal testis Sertoli cells caused aberrant differentiation and proliferation of PMCs, FLCs and interstitial progenitor cells from embryo to newborn, leading to abnormal fetal testis interstitial development. Specifically, the expression of PMC marker genes α-Sma, Myh11 and Des, and interstitial progenitor cell marker gene Vcam1 were down-regulated, whereas FLC marker genes StAR, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1 and Hsd3b1 were up-regulated, in neonatal Wt1SC-cKO testes. The ratio of PMC:FLC were also reduced in Wt1SC-cKO testes, concomitant with a down-regulation of Notch signaling molecules Jag 1, Notch 2, Notch 3, and Hes1 in neonatal Wt1SC-cKO testes, illustrating changes in the differentiation status of FLC from their interstitial progenitor cells during fetal testis development. In summary, Wt1 regulates the development of FLC and interstitial progenitor cell lineages through Notch signaling, and it also plays a role in PMC development. Collectively, these effects confer fetal testis compartmentalization.

Microbial Quality of and Biochemical Changes in Fresh Soft, Acid-Curd Xinotyri Cheese Made from Raw or Pasteurized Goat’s Milk

PubMed Central

Tasioula-Margari, Maria

2017-01-01

Summary The microbiological quality of and changes in the main physicochemical parameters, together with the evolution of proteolysis, lipolysis and volatile profiles of soft Xinotyri, a traditional Greek acid-curd cheese (pH≈4.4, moisture 65%, salt 1%) made from raw (RMC) or pasteurized (PMC) goat’s milk without starters, were evaluated during aerobic storage at 4 oC for 60 days. No statistically significant differences between the total nitrogen (TN) and nitrogen fraction (% of TN) contents, the degradation of intact αs- or β-caseins, total free amino acid (FAA) contents, and the ratio of hydrophilic and hydrophobic peptides in the water-soluble fraction of RMC and PMC were found. Threonine, alanine and lysine were the principal FAAs. Oleic, palmitic, capric and caprylic acids, and ethyl hexonate, ethyl octanoate, ethyl decanoate, ethanol, 3-methyl butanol, phenyl ethyl alcohol and acetone were the most abundant free fatty acids and volatile compounds, respectively. Cheese lipolysis evolved slowly at 4 oC, and milk pasteurization had no significant effect on it. Mesophilic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were predominant in fresh cheese samples. PMC samples had significantly lower levels of enterococci and enterobacteria than RMC samples, while yeasts grew at similar levels during storage at 4 oC. All cheese samples (25 g) were free of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. Coagulase-
-positive staphylococci exceeded the 5-log safety threshold in fresh RMC samples, whereas they were suppressed (<100 CFU/g) in all PMC samples. Consequently, pasteurization of raw goat milk’s and utilization of commercially defined or natural mesophilic LAB starters are recommended for standardizing the biochemical, microbial and safety qualities of fresh soft Xinotyri cheese. PMID:29540984

HapMap tagSNP transferability in multiple populations: general guidelines

PubMed Central

Xing, Jinchuan; Witherspoon, David J.; Watkins, W. Scott; Zhang, Yuhua; Tolpinrud, Whitney; Jorde, Lynn B.

2008-01-01

This PDF receipt will only be used as the basis for generating PubMed Central (PMC) documents. PMC documents will be made available for review after conversion (approx. 2–3 weeks time). Any corrections that need to be made will be done at that time. No materials will be released to PMC without the approval of an author. Only the PMC documents will appear on PubMed Central -- this PDF Receipt will not appear on PubMed Central. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) has received much recent attention because of its value in localizing disease-causing genes. Due to the extensive LD between neighboring loci in the human genome, it is believed that a subset of the single nucleotide polymorphisms in a region (tagSNPs) can be selected to capture most of the remaining SNP variants. In this study, we examined LD patterns and HapMap tagSNP transferability in more than 300 individuals. A South Indian and an African Mbuti Pygmy population sample were included to evaluate the performance of HapMap tagSNPs in geographically distinct and genetically isolated populations. Our results show that HapMap tagSNPs selected with r2 >= 0.8 can capture more than 85% of the SNPs in populations that are from the same continental group. Combined tagSNPs from HapMap CEU and CHB+JPT serve as the best reference for the Indian sample. The HapMap YRI are a sufficient reference for tagSNP selection in the Pygmy sample. In addition to our findings, we reviewed over 25 recent studies of tagSNP transferability and propose a general guideline for selecting tagSNPs from HapMap populations. PMID:18482828

Occurrence of ion upflow associated with ion/electron heating in the polar cap and cusp regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, E. Y.; Jee, G.; Kwak, Y. S.

2017-12-01

We investigate the occurrence frequency of ion upflow in association with ion/electron heating in the polar cap and cusp regions, using the data obtained from the European Incoherent Scatter Svalbard radar (ESR) during the period of 2000 to 2010. We classify the upflow events by four cases: driven by ion heating (case 1), electron heating (case 2), both ion and electron heatings (case 3), and without any heating (case 4). The statistical analysis of the data shows that the upflow normaly starts at around 350 km altitude and the occurrence seems to peak at 11 MLT. Among the four cases, the occurrence frequency of the upflow is maximized for the case 3 and then followed by case 2, case 1 and case 3, which indicates that both ion and electron heatings are associated with ion upflow. At around 500 km altitude, however, the occurrence frequency is maximized when there is no heating (case 4). We also investigate the dependence of the occurrence frequency of the upflow on Kp and F10.7 indices. The maximum occurrence frequency seems to occur at moderate geomagnetic condition (2 ≤ Kp < 5). As for the solar activity, the occurrence frequency is higher for low solar activity than for high solar activity. The results of this study suggest that the ion upflow occurring in the polar cap/cusp region is mostly driven by both ion and electron heatings.

Drought Occurrence and Management in Kazakhstan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iskakov, Y.; Mendigarin, A.; Sazanova, B.; Zhumabayev, Y.

2014-12-01

A direct and reliable indicator of drought can be measured by the productive moisture content (PMC) in soil, which uses the weight of the moisture in a soil profile. However the limited network of PMC measurement sites in Kazakhstan (123 for the total area of 2. 7 million km2) does not allow a spatial assessment of drought conditions across the vast majority of the country. To assess the availability of soil moisture and the likelihood of drought, we calculated spatial structure of soil moisture deficit, using the Selyaninov Hydrothermal Coefficient (HTCs). It was derived for the vegetatively active period from May to August. Figure 1 shows the average structure of soil moisture availability across Kazakhstan, and indicates that most of the country is vulnerable to drought. In response to this vulnerability the Kazakhstan also established the following policies and technologies to mitigate the impact of drought. Those measures include: 1. Introduction of resource-saving (soil-protective and moisture preserving) No-Till technologies. 2. Structural and technological diversification of plant growing. 3. Introduction of efficient irrigation systems for southern Kazakhstan. 4. Adaptation of weather and field reports to optimize the benefits of agrotechnical activities. 5. Re-equipment of agricultural vehicles and machinery. 6. Training and professional development of specialists in agriculture. 7. Improvement of insurance system for plant growing. 8. Improvement of systems and mechanisms of state support for small and medium agricultural producers. 9. Improvement of the system of scientific and technological and innovative support for grain production. These strategies, how they are being implemented, and the targeted goals will be presented. We will provide findings from experimental field stations, and model farms. The goals is to improve efficiency in water resources, effectively communication relevant information to farmers, policy makers and the insurance industry, as well as promote climate resilience in the advent of climate change.

On the astronomical origin of the Hallstatt oscillation found in radiocarbon and climate records throughout the Holocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scafetta, Nicola; Milani, Franco; Bianchini, Antonio; Ortolani, Sergio

2017-04-01

An oscillation with a period of about 2100-2500 years, the Hallstatt cycle, is found in cosmogenic radioisotopes (14C and 10Be) and in paleoclimate records throughout the Holocene. This oscillation is typically associated with solar variations, but its primary physical origin remains uncertain. Herein we show strong evidences for an astronomical origin of this cycle. Namely, this oscillation is coherent to a repeating pattern in the periodic revolution of the planets around the Sun: the major stable resonance involving the four Jovian planets - Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune - which has a period of about p=2318 yr. Inspired by the Milanković's theory of an astronomical origin of the glacial cycles, we test whether the Hallstatt cycle could derive from the rhythmic variation of the circularity of the solar system disk assuming that this dynamics could eventually modulate the solar wind and, consequently, the incoming cosmic ray flux and/or the interplanetary/cosmic dust concentration around the Earth-Moon system. The orbit of the planetary mass center (PMC) relative to the Sun is used as a proxy. We analyzed how the instantaneous eccentricity vector of this virtual orbit varies from 13,000 B. C. to 17,000 A. D.. We found that it undergoes a kind of pulsations and clearly presents rhythmic contraction and expansion patterns with a 2318 yr period together with a number of already known faster oscillations associated to the planetary orbital stable resonances. There exists a quasi π/2 phase shift between the 2100-2500 yr oscillation found in the 14C record and that of the calculated eccentricity function. Namely, at the Hallstatt-cycle time scale, a larger production of radionucleotide particles occurs while the Sun-PMC orbit evolves from more elliptical shapes (e≈0.598) to more circular ones (e≈0.590), that is while the orbital system is slowly imploding or bursting inward; a smaller production of radionucleotide particles occurs while the Sun-PMC orbit evolves from more circular shapes (e≈0.590) to a more elliptical ones (e≈0.598), that is while the orbital system is slowly exploding or bursting outward. Since at this timescale the PMC eccentricity variation is relatively small (e=0.594±0.004), the physical origin of the astronomical 2318 yr cycle is better identified and distinguished from faster orbital oscillations by the times it takes the PMC to make pericycles and epicycles around the Sun and the times it takes to move from minimum to maximum distance from the Sun within those arcs. These particular proxies reveal a macroscopic 2318 yr period oscillation, together with other three stable outer planet orbital resonances with periods of 159, 171 and 185 yr. This 2318 yr oscillation is found to be spectrally coherent with the Δ14C Holocene record with a statistical confidence above 95%, as determined by spectral analysis and cross wavelet and wavelet coherence analysis. At the Hallstatt time scale, maxima of the radionucleotide production occurred when, within each pericycle-apocycle orbital arc, the time required by the PMC to move from the minimum to the maximum distance from the Sun varies from about 8 to 16 years while the time required by the same to move from the maximum to the minimum distance from the Sun varies from about 7 to 14 years, and viceversa. Thus, we found that a fast expansion of the Sun-PMC orbit followed by a slow contraction appears to prevent cosmic rays to enter within the system inner region while a slow expansion followed by a fast contraction favors it. Similarly, the same dynamics could modulate the amount of interplanetary/cosmic dust falling on Earth. Indeed, many other stable orbital resonance frequencies (e.g. at periods of 20 yr, 45 yr, 60 yr, 85 yr, 159-171-185 yr, etc.) are found in radionucleotide, solar, aurora and climate records, as determined in the scientific literature. Thus, the result supports a planetary theory of solar and/or climate variation that has recently received a renewed attention. In our particular case, the rhythmic contraction and expansion of the solar system driven by a major resonance involving the movements of the four Jovian planets appear to work as a gravitational/electromagnetic pump that increases and decreases the cosmic ray and dust densities inside the inner region of the solar system, which then modulate both the radionucleotide production and climate change by means of a cloud/albedo modulation. Citation: Scafetta, N., Milani, F., Bianchini, A., Ortolani, S.: 2016. On the astronomical origin of the Hallstatt oscillation found in radiocarbon and climate records throughout the Holocene. Earth-Science Reviews 162, 24-43. DOI: 10.1016/j.earscirev.2016.09.004.

A corrugated perfect magnetic conductor surface supporting spoof surface magnon polaritons.

PubMed

Liu, Liang-liang; Li, Zhuo; Gu, Chang-qing; Ning, Ping-ping; Xu, Bing-zheng; Niu, Zhen-yi; Zhao, Yong-jiu

2014-05-05

In this paper, we demonstrate that spoof surface magnon polaritons (SSMPs) can propagate along a corrugated perfect magnetic conductor (PMC) surface. From duality theorem, the existence of surface electromagnetic modes on corrugated PMC surfaces are manifest to be transverse electric (TE) mode compared with the transverse magnetic (TM) mode of spoof surface plasmon plaritons (SSPPs) excited on corrugated perfect electric conductor surfaces. Theoretical deduction through modal expansion method and simulation results clearly verify that SSMPs share the same dispersion relationship with the SSPPs. It is worth noting that this metamaterial will have more similar properties and potential applications as the SSPPs in large number of areas.

The inclusion of an online journal in PubMed central - a difficult path.

PubMed

Grech, Victor

2016-01-01

The indexing of a journal in a prominent database (such as PubMed) is an important imprimatur. Journals accepted for inclusion in PubMed Central (PMC) are automatically indexed in PubMed but must provide the entire contents of their publications as XML-tagged (Extensible Markup Language) data files compliant with PubMed's document type definition (DTD). This paper describes the various attempts that the journal Images in Paediatric Cardiology made in its efforts to convert the journal contents (including all of the extant backlog) to PMC-compliant XML for archiving and indexing in PubMed after the journal was accepted for inclusion by the database.

Behavior of sea urchin primary mesenchyme cells in artificial extracellular matrices.

PubMed

Katow, H

1986-02-01

The primary mesenchyme cells (PMCs) were separated from the mesenchyme blastulae of Pseudocentrotus depressus using differential adhesiveness of these cells to plastic Petri dishes. These cells were incubated in various artificial extracellular matrices (ECMs) including horse serum plasma fibronectin, mouse EHS sarcoma laminin, mouse EHS sarcoma type IV collagen, and porcine skin dermatan sulfate. The cell behavior was monitored by a time-lapse videomicrograph and analysed with a microcomputer. The ultrastructure of the artificial ECM was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), while the ultrastructure of the PMCs was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The PMCs did not migrate in type IV collagen gel, laminin or dermatan sulfate matrix either with or without collagen gel, whereas PMCs in the matrix which was composed of fibronectin and collagen gel migrated considerably. However, the most active and extensive PMC migration was seen in the matrix which contained dermatan sulfate in addition to fibronectin and collagen gel. This PMC migration involved an increase not only of migration speed but also of proportion of migration-promoted cells. These results support the hypothesis that the mechanism of PMC migration involves fibronectin, collagen and sulfated proteoglycans which contain dermatan sulfate.

“What Is Our Story?” Philip Morris’s Changing Corporate Narrative

PubMed Central

Malone, Ruth E.

2015-01-01

Objectives. We sought to learn how employees reacted to changes in the corporate narrative of Philip Morris Companies (PMC) in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Methods. We analyzed archival internal tobacco industry documents about PMC’s creation of a new corporate story. Results. In response to litigation and public opprobrium, PMC replaced its market success–oriented corporate narrative with a new one centered on responsibility. Although management sought to downplay inconsistencies between the old and new narratives, some employees reportedly had difficulty reconciling them, concerned that the responsibility focus might affect company profitability. However, others embraced the new narrative, suggesting radical ideas to prevent youth smoking. These ideas were not adopted. Conclusions. PMC’s new narrative was unconvincing to many of its employees, who perceived it either as a threat to the company’s continued profits or as incongruous with what they had previously been told. As it had done with the public, PMC misled its employees in explaining a narrative repositioning that would help the company continue business as usual. Moving toward a tobacco endgame will require ongoing discursive and symbolic efforts to disrupt this narrative. PMID:26270280

A precise determination of the top-quark pole mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Sheng-Quan; Wu, Xing-Gang; Si, Zong-Guo; Brodsky, Stanley J.

2018-03-01

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) provides a systematic way to eliminate the renormalization scheme and renormalization scale uncertainties for high-energy processes. We have observed that by applying PMC scale setting, one obtains comprehensive and self-consistent pQCD predictions for the top-quark pair total cross section and the top-quark pair forward-backward asymmetry in agreement with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. As a step forward, in the present paper, we determine the top-quark pole mass via a detailed comparison of the top-quark pair cross section with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. The results for the top-quark pole mass are m_t=174.6^{+3.1}_{-3.2} GeV for the Tevatron with √{S}=1.96 TeV, m_t=173.7± 1.5 and 174.2± 1.7 GeV for the LHC with √{S} = 7 and 8 TeV, respectively. Those predictions agree with the average, 173.34± 0.76 GeV, obtained from various collaborations via direct measurements. The consistency of the pQCD predictions using the PMC with all of the collider measurements at different energies provides an important verification of QCD.

Brittle failure of rock: A review and general linear criterion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labuz, Joseph F.; Zeng, Feitao; Makhnenko, Roman; Li, Yuan

2018-07-01

A failure criterion typically is phenomenological since few models exist to theoretically derive the mathematical function. Indeed, a successful failure criterion is a generalization of experimental data obtained from strength tests on specimens subjected to known stress states. For isotropic rock that exhibits a pressure dependence on strength, a popular failure criterion is a linear equation in major and minor principal stresses, independent of the intermediate principal stress. A general linear failure criterion called Paul-Mohr-Coulomb (PMC) contains all three principal stresses with three material constants: friction angles for axisymmetric compression ϕc and extension ϕe and isotropic tensile strength V0. PMC provides a framework to describe a nonlinear failure surface by a set of planes "hugging" the curved surface. Brittle failure of rock is reviewed and multiaxial test methods are summarized. Equations are presented to implement PMC for fitting strength data and determining the three material parameters. A piecewise linear approximation to a nonlinear failure surface is illustrated by fitting two planes with six material parameters to form either a 6- to 12-sided pyramid or a 6- to 12- to 6-sided pyramid. The particular nature of the failure surface is dictated by the experimental data.

A Study of Gamma-Ray Exposure of Cu-SiO2 Programmable Metallization Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, W.; Barnaby, H. J.; Kozicki, M. N.; Edwards, A. H.; Gonzalez-Velo, Y.; Fang, R.; Holbert, K. E.; Yu, S.; Yu, W.

2015-12-01

The Cu-SiO2 based programmable metallization cell (PMC) is a promising alternative to the Ag-chalcogenide glass PMC because of its low power consumption and CMOS-compatibility. Understanding its total ionizing dose (TID) response helps in assessing the reliability of this technology in ionizing radiation environments and benefits its expansion in the space electronics market. In this paper, the impacts of TID on the switching characteristics of Cu-SiO2 PMC are investigated for the first time. The devices were step irradiated with 60Co gamma-rays to a maximum dose of 7.1 Mrad ( SiO2). The results show that gamma-ray irradiation has a negligible impact on the virgin-state and on-state resistance of Cu-SiO2 PMCs. The off-state resistance slightly decreases after the first 1.5 Mrad( SiO2) of exposure, but this reduction saturates after higher levels of TID. Other switching characteristics such as the set voltage, multilevel switching capability and endurance were also studied, all of which did not show observable changes after gamma-ray radiation. The immunity to ionizing radiation is attributed to the suppression of the photo-doping process.

Novel Architecture for a Long-Life, Lightweight Venus Lander

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

Bugby, D.; Seghi, S.; Kroliczek, E.

2009-03-16

This paper describes a novel concept for an extended lifetime, lightweight Venus lander. Historically, to operate in the 480 deg. C, 90 atm, corrosive, mostly CO{sub 2} Venus surface environment, previous landers have relied on thick Ti spherical outer shells and thick layers of internal insulation. But even the most resilient of these landers operated for only about 2 hours before succumbing to the environment. The goal on this project is to develop an architecture that extends lander lifetime to 20-25 hours and also reduces mass compared to the Pioneer Venus mission architecture. The idea for reducing mass is to:more » (a) contain the science instruments within a spherical high strength lightweight polymer matrix composite (PMC) tank; (b) surround the PMC tank with an annular shell of high performance insulation pre-pressurized to a level that (after landing) will exceed the external Venus surface pressure; and (c) surround the insulation with a thin Ti outer shell that contains only a net internal pressure, eliminating buckling overdesign mass. The combination of the PMC inner tank and thin Ti outer shell is lighter than a single thick Ti outer shell. The idea for extending lifetime is to add the following three features: (i) an expendable water supply that is placed within the insulation or is contained in an additional vessel within the PMC tank; (ii) a thin spherical evaporator shell placed within the insulation a short radial distance from the outer shell; and (iii) a thin heat-intercepting liquid cooled shield placed inboard of the evaporator shell. These features lower the temperature of the insulation below what it would have been with the insulation alone, reducing the internal heat leak and lengthening lifetime. The use of phase change materials (PCMs) inside the PMC tank is also analyzed as a lifetime-extending design option. The paper describes: (1) analytical modeling to demonstrate reduced mass and extended life; (2) thermal conductivity testing of high performance insulation as a function of temperature and pressure; (3) a bench-top ambient pressure thermal test of the evaporation system; and (4) a higher fidelity test, to be conducted in a high pressure, high temperature inert gas test chamber, of a small-scale Venus lander prototype (made from two hemispherical interconnecting halves) that includes all of the aforesaid features.22 CFR 125.4(b)(13) applicable.« less

Towards motion insensitive EEG-fMRI: Correcting motion-induced voltages and gradient artefact instability in EEG using an fMRI prospective motion correction (PMC) system.

PubMed

Maziero, Danilo; Velasco, Tonicarlo R; Hunt, Nigel; Payne, Edwin; Lemieux, Louis; Salmon, Carlos E G; Carmichael, David W

2016-09-01

The simultaneous acquisition of electroencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) is a multimodal technique extensively applied for mapping the human brain. However, the quality of EEG data obtained within the MRI environment is strongly affected by subject motion due to the induction of voltages in addition to artefacts caused by the scanning gradients and the heartbeat. This has limited its application in populations such as paediatric patients or to study epileptic seizure onset. Recent work has used a Moiré-phase grating and a MR-compatible camera to prospectively update image acquisition and improve fMRI quality (prospective motion correction: PMC). In this study, we use this technology to retrospectively reduce the spurious voltages induced by motion in the EEG data acquired inside the MRI scanner, with and without fMRI acquisitions. This was achieved by modelling induced voltages from the tracking system motion parameters; position and angles, their first derivative (velocities) and the velocity squared. This model was used to remove the voltages related to the detected motion via a linear regression. Since EEG quality during fMRI relies on a temporally stable gradient artefact (GA) template (calculated from averaging EEG epochs matched to scan volume or slice acquisition), this was evaluated in sessions both with and without motion contamination, and with and without PMC. We demonstrate that our approach is capable of significantly reducing motion-related artefact with a magnitude of up to 10mm of translation, 6° of rotation and velocities of 50mm/s, while preserving physiological information. We also demonstrate that the EEG-GA variance is not increased by the gradient direction changes associated with PMC. Provided a scan slice-based GA template is used (rather than a scan volume GA template) we demonstrate that EEG variance during motion can be supressed towards levels found when subjects are still. In summary, we show that PMC can be used to dramatically improve EEG quality during large amplitude movements, while benefiting from previously reported improvements in fMRI quality, and does not affect EEG data quality in the absence of large amplitude movements. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pulmonary Hypertension and Computed Tomography Measurement of Small Pulmonary Vessels in Severe Emphysema

PubMed Central

Matsuoka, Shin; Washko, George R.; Yamashiro, Tsuneo; Estepar, Raul San Jose; Diaz, Alejandro; Silverman, Edwin K.; Hoffman, Eric; Fessler, Henry E.; Criner, Gerard J.; Marchetti, Nathaniel; Scharf, Steven M.; Martinez, Fernando J.; Reilly, John J.; Hatabu, Hiroto

2010-01-01

Rationale: Vascular alteration of small pulmonary vessels is one of the characteristic features of pulmonary hypertension in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The in vivo relationship between pulmonary hypertension and morphological alteration of the small pulmonary vessels has not been assessed in patients with severe emphysema. Objectives: We evaluated the correlation of total cross-sectional area of small pulmonary vessels (CSA) assessed on computed tomography (CT) scans with the degree of pulmonary hypertension estimated by right heart catheterization. Methods: In 79 patients with severe emphysema enrolled in the National Emphysema Treatment Trial (NETT), we measured CSA less than 5 mm2 (CSA<5) and 5 to 10 mm2 (CSA5−10), and calculated the percentage of total CSA for the lung area (%CSA<5 and %CSA5–10, respectively). The correlations of %CSA<5 and %CSA5–10 with pulmonary arterial mean pressure (\\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}) obtained by right heart catheterization were evaluated. Multiple linear regression analysis using \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} as the dependent outcome was also performed. Measurements and Main Results: The %CSA<5 had a significant negative correlation with \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} (r = −0.512, P < 0.0001), whereas the correlation between %CSA5–10 and \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} did not reach statistical significance (r = −0.196, P = 0.083). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that %CSA<5 and diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DlCO) % predicted were independent predictors of \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} (r2 = 0.541): %CSA <5 (P < 0.0001), and DlCO % predicted (P = 0.022). Conclusions: The %CSA<5 measured on CT images is significantly correlated to \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\overline{Ppa}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} in severe emphysema and can estimate the degree of pulmonary hypertension. PMID:19875683

[Responses of rice-wheat rotation system in south Jiangsu to organic-inorganic compound fertilizers].

PubMed

Tian, Heng-Da; Zhang, Li; Zhang, Jian-Chao; Wang, Qiu-Jun; Xu, Da-Bing; Yibati, Halihashi; Xu, Jia-Le; Huang, Qi-Wei

2011-11-01

In 2006-2007, a field trial was conducted to study the effects of applying three kinds of organic-inorganic compound fertilizers [rapeseed cake compost plus inorganic fertilizers (RCC), pig manure compost plus inorganic fertilizers (PMC), and Chinese medicine residues plus inorganic fertilizers (CMC)] on the crop growth and nitrogen (N) use efficiency of rice-wheat rotation system in South Jiangsu. Grain yield of wheat and rice in the different fertilization treatments was significantly higher than the control (no fertilization). In treatments RCC, PMC and CMC, the wheat yield was 13.1%, 32.2% and 39.3% lower than that of the NPK compound fertilizer (CF, 6760 kg x hm(-2)), respectively, but the rice yield (8504-9449 kg x hm(-2)) was significantly higher than that (7919 kg x hm(-2)) of CF, with an increment of 7.4%-19.3%. In wheat season, the aboveground dry mass, N accumulation, and N use efficiency in treatments RCC, PMC, and CMC were lower than those of CF, but in rice season, these parameters were significantly higher than or as the same as CF. In sum, all the test three compound fertilizers had positive effects on the rice yield and its nitrogen use efficiency in the rice-wheat rotation system, being most significant for RCC.

A precise determination of the top-quark pole mass

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

Wang, Sheng-Quan; Wu, Xing-Gang; Si, Zong-Guo

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) provides a systematic way to eliminate the renormalization scheme and renormalization scale uncertainties for high-energy processes. We have observed that by applying PMC scale setting, one obtains comprehensive and self-consistent pQCD predictions for the top-quark pair total cross section and the top-quark pair forward–backward asymmetry in agreement with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. As a step forward, in the present work, we determine the top-quark pole mass via a detailed comparison of the top-quark pair cross section with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. The results for the top-quark pole mass are m t=174.6more » $$+3.1\\atop{-3.2}$$ GeV for the Tevatron with $$\\sqrt{s}$$ =1.96 TeV, m t=173.7±1.5 and 174.2±1.7 GeV for the LHC with $$\\sqrt{s}$$ =7 and 8 TeV, respectively. Those predictions agree with the average, 173.34±0.76 GeV, obtained from various collaborations via direct measurements. The consistency of the pQCD predictions using the PMC with all of the collider measurements at different energies provides an important verification of QCD.« less

H(+)/K(+) ATPase activity is required for biomineralization in sea urchin embryos.

PubMed

Schatzberg, Daphne; Lawton, Matthew; Hadyniak, Sarah E; Ross, Erik J; Carney, Tamara; Beane, Wendy S; Levin, Michael; Bradham, Cynthia A

2015-10-15

The bioelectrical signatures associated with regeneration, wound healing, development, and cancer are changes in the polarization state of the cell that persist over long durations, and are mediated by ion channel activity. To identify physiologically relevant bioelectrical changes that occur during normal development of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus, we tested a range of ion channel inhibitors, and thereby identified SCH28080, a chemical inhibitor of the H(+)/K(+) ATPase (HKA), as an inhibitor of skeletogenesis. In sea urchin embryos, the primary mesodermal lineage, the PMCs, produce biomineral in response to signals from the ectoderm. However, in SCH28080-treated embryos, aside from randomization of the left-right axis, the ectoderm is normally specified and differentiated, indicating that the block to skeletogenesis observed in SCH28080-treated embryos is PMC-specific. HKA inhibition did not interfere with PMC specification, and was sufficient to block continuing biomineralization when embryos were treated with SCH28080 after the initiation of skeletogenesis, indicating that HKA activity is continuously required during biomineralization. Ion concentrations and voltage potential were abnormal in the PMCs in SCH28080-treated embryos, suggesting that these bioelectrical abnormalities prevent biomineralization. Our results indicate that this effect is due to the inhibition of amorphous calcium carbonate precipitation within PMC vesicles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A precise determination of the top-quark pole mass

DOE PAGES

Wang, Sheng-Quan; Wu, Xing-Gang; Si, Zong-Guo; ...

2018-03-20

The Principle of Maximum Conformality (PMC) provides a systematic way to eliminate the renormalization scheme and renormalization scale uncertainties for high-energy processes. We have observed that by applying PMC scale setting, one obtains comprehensive and self-consistent pQCD predictions for the top-quark pair total cross section and the top-quark pair forward–backward asymmetry in agreement with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. As a step forward, in the present work, we determine the top-quark pole mass via a detailed comparison of the top-quark pair cross section with the measurements at the Tevatron and LHC. The results for the top-quark pole mass are m t=174.6more » $$+3.1\\atop{-3.2}$$ GeV for the Tevatron with $$\\sqrt{s}$$ =1.96 TeV, m t=173.7±1.5 and 174.2±1.7 GeV for the LHC with $$\\sqrt{s}$$ =7 and 8 TeV, respectively. Those predictions agree with the average, 173.34±0.76 GeV, obtained from various collaborations via direct measurements. The consistency of the pQCD predictions using the PMC with all of the collider measurements at different energies provides an important verification of QCD.« less

Altered brain long-range functional interactions underlying the link between aberrant self-experience and self-other relationship in first-episode schizophrenia.

PubMed

Ebisch, Sjoerd J H; Mantini, Dante; Northoff, Georg; Salone, Anatolia; De Berardis, Domenico; Ferri, Francesca; Ferro, Filippo M; Di Giannantonio, Massimo; Romani, Gian L; Gallese, Vittorio

2014-09-01

Self-experience anomalies are elementary features of schizophrenic pathology. Such deficits can have a profound impact on self-other relationship, but how they are related through aberrant brain function remains poorly understood. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, we provide new evidence for a cortical link between aberrant self-experience and social cognition in first-episode schizophrenia (FES). As identified in previous studies, ventral premotor cortex (vPMC) and posterior insula (pIC) are candidate brain regions underlying disturbances in both self-experience and self-other relationship due to their processing of predominantly externally guided (vPMC; goal-oriented behavior) and internally guided (pIC; interoception) stimuli. Results from functional interaction analysis in a sample of 24 FES patients and 22 healthy controls show aberrant functional interactions (background/intrinsic connectivity) of right vPMC and bilateral pIC with posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), a midline region that has been shown central in mediating self-experience. More specifically, our results show increased functional coupling between vPMC and PCC, which positively correlated with basic symptoms (subjective self-experience disturbances). pIC showed reduced functional coupling with PCC and postcentral gyrus and increased functional interactions with anterior insula. Taken together, our results suggest an imbalance in the processing between internally and externally guided information and its abnormal integration with self-referential processing as mediated by PCC. Due to our correlation findings, we suggest this imbalance to be closely related to basic symptoms in FES and thus anomalous self-experience. The findings further disentangle the cortical basis of how self-experience anomalies may pervade the social domain. © The Author 2013. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Aged Riverine Particulate Organic Carbon in Four UK Catchments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adams, Jessica; Tipping, Edward; Bryant, Charlotte; Helliwell, Rachel; Toberman, Hannah; Quinton, John

2016-04-01

The riverine transport of particulate organic matter (POM) is a significant flux in the carbon cycle, and affects macronutrients and contaminants. We used radiocarbon to characterise POM at 9 riverine sites of four UK catchments (Avon, Conwy, Dee, Ribble) over a one-year period. High-discharge samples were collected on three or four occasions at each site. Suspended particulate matter (SPM) was obtained by centrifugation, and the samples were analysed for carbon isotopes. Concentrations of SPM and SPM organic carbon (OC) contents were also determined, and were found to have a significant negative correlation. For the 7 rivers draining predominantly rural catchments, PO14C values, expressed as percent modern carbon absolute (pMC), varied little among samplings at each site, and there was no significant difference in the average values among the sites. The overall average PO14C value for the 7 sites of 91.2 pMC corresponded to an average age of 680 14C years, but this value arises from the mixing of differently-aged components, and therefore significant amounts of organic matter older than the average value are present in the samples. Although topsoil erosion is probably the major source of the riverine POM, the average PO14C value is appreciably lower than topsoil values (which are typically 100 pMC). This is most likely explained by inputs of older subsoil OC from bank erosion, or the preferential loss of high-14C topsoil organic matter by mineralisation during riverine transport. The significantly lower average PO14C of samples from the River Calder (76.6 pMC), can be ascribed to components containing little or no radiocarbon, derived either from industrial sources or historical coal mining, and this effect is also seen in the River Ribble, downstream of its confluence with the Calder. At the global scale, the results significantly expand available information for PO14C in rivers draining catchments with low erosion rates.

Multisensory and modality specific processing of visual speech in different regions of the premotor cortex

PubMed Central

Callan, Daniel E.; Jones, Jeffery A.; Callan, Akiko

2014-01-01

Behavioral and neuroimaging studies have demonstrated that brain regions involved with speech production also support speech perception, especially under degraded conditions. The premotor cortex (PMC) has been shown to be active during both observation and execution of action (“Mirror System” properties), and may facilitate speech perception by mapping unimodal and multimodal sensory features onto articulatory speech gestures. For this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, participants identified vowels produced by a speaker in audio-visual (saw the speaker's articulating face and heard her voice), visual only (only saw the speaker's articulating face), and audio only (only heard the speaker's voice) conditions with varying audio signal-to-noise ratios in order to determine the regions of the PMC involved with multisensory and modality specific processing of visual speech gestures. The task was designed so that identification could be made with a high level of accuracy from visual only stimuli to control for task difficulty and differences in intelligibility. The results of the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis for visual only and audio-visual conditions showed overlapping activity in inferior frontal gyrus and PMC. The left ventral inferior premotor cortex (PMvi) showed properties of multimodal (audio-visual) enhancement with a degraded auditory signal. The left inferior parietal lobule and right cerebellum also showed these properties. The left ventral superior and dorsal premotor cortex (PMvs/PMd) did not show this multisensory enhancement effect, but there was greater activity for the visual only over audio-visual conditions in these areas. The results suggest that the inferior regions of the ventral premotor cortex are involved with integrating multisensory information, whereas, more superior and dorsal regions of the PMC are involved with mapping unimodal (in this case visual) sensory features of the speech signal with articulatory speech gestures. PMID:24860526

TH-A-19A-11: Validation of GPU-Based Monte Carlo Code (gPMC) Versus Fully Implemented Monte Carlo Code (TOPAS) for Proton Radiation Therapy: Clinical Cases Study

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

Giantsoudi, D; Schuemann, J; Dowdell, S

Purpose: For proton radiation therapy, Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) methods are recognized as the gold-standard dose calculation approach. Although previously unrealistic due to limitations in available computing power, GPU-based applications allow MCS of proton treatment fields to be performed in routine clinical use, on time scales comparable to that of conventional pencil-beam algorithms. This study focuses on validating the results of our GPU-based code (gPMC) versus fully implemented proton therapy based MCS code (TOPAS) for clinical patient cases. Methods: Two treatment sites were selected to provide clinical cases for this study: head-and-neck cases due to anatomical geometrical complexity (air cavitiesmore » and density heterogeneities), making dose calculation very challenging, and prostate cases due to higher proton energies used and close proximity of the treatment target to sensitive organs at risk. Both gPMC and TOPAS methods were used to calculate 3-dimensional dose distributions for all patients in this study. Comparisons were performed based on target coverage indices (mean dose, V90 and D90) and gamma index distributions for 2% of the prescription dose and 2mm. Results: For seven out of eight studied cases, mean target dose, V90 and D90 differed less than 2% between TOPAS and gPMC dose distributions. Gamma index analysis for all prostate patients resulted in passing rate of more than 99% of voxels in the target. Four out of five head-neck-cases showed passing rate of gamma index for the target of more than 99%, the fifth having a gamma index passing rate of 93%. Conclusion: Our current work showed excellent agreement between our GPU-based MCS code and fully implemented proton therapy based MC code for a group of dosimetrically challenging patient cases.« less

The control of foxN2/3 expression in sea urchin embryos and its function in the skeletogenic gene regulatory network.

PubMed

Rho, Ho Kyung; McClay, David R

2011-03-01

Early development requires well-organized temporal and spatial regulation of transcription factors that are assembled into gene regulatory networks (GRNs). In the sea urchin, an endomesoderm GRN model explains much of the specification in the endoderm and mesoderm prior to gastrulation, yet some GRN connections remain incomplete. Here, we characterize FoxN2/3 in the primary mesenchyme cell (PMC) GRN state. Expression of foxN2/3 mRNA begins in micromeres at the hatched blastula stage and then is lost from micromeres at the mesenchyme blastula stage. foxN2/3 expression then shifts to the non-skeletogenic mesoderm and, later, to the endoderm. Here, we show that Pmar1, Ets1 and Tbr are necessary for activation of foxN2/3 in micromeres. The later endomesoderm expression of foxN2/3 is independent of the earlier expression of foxN2/3 in micromeres and is independent of signals from PMCs. FoxN2/3 is necessary for several steps in the formation of the larval skeleton. Early expression of genes for the skeletal matrix is dependent on FoxN2/3, but only until the mesenchyme blastula stage as foxN2/3 mRNA disappears from PMCs at that time and we assume that the protein is not abnormally long-lived. Knockdown of FoxN2/3 inhibits normal PMC ingression and foxN2/3 morphant PMCs do not organize in the blastocoel and fail to join the PMC syncytium. In addition, without FoxN2/3, the PMCs fail to repress the transfating of other mesodermal cells into the skeletogenic lineage. Thus, FoxN2/3 is necessary for normal ingression, for expression of several skeletal matrix genes, for preventing transfating and for fusion of the PMC syncytium.

A Clinical Framework to Facilitate Risk Stratification When Considering an Active Surveillance Alternative to Immediate Biopsy and Surgery in Papillary Microcarcinoma.

PubMed

Brito, Juan P; Ito, Yasuhiro; Miyauchi, Akira; Tuttle, R Michael

2016-01-01

The 2015 American Thyroid Association thyroid cancer management guidelines endorse an active surveillance management approach as an alternative to immediate biopsy and surgery in subcentimeter thyroid nodules with highly suspicious ultrasonographic characteristics and in cytologically confirmed very low risk papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). However, the guidelines provide no specific recommendations with regard to the optimal selection of patients for an active surveillance management approach. This article describes a risk-stratified clinical decision-making framework that was developed by the thyroid cancer disease management team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as the lessons learned from Kuma Hospital in Japan were applied to a cohort of patients with probable or proven papillary microcarcinoma (PMC) who were being evaluated for an active surveillance management approach in the United States. A risk-stratified approach to the evaluation of patients with probable or proven PMC being considered for an active surveillance management approach requires an evaluation of three interrelated but distinct domains: (i) tumor/neck ultrasound characteristics (e.g., size of the primary tumor, the location of the tumor within the thyroid gland); (ii) patient characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities, willingness to accept observation); and (iii) medical team characteristics (e.g., availability and experience of the multidisciplinary team). Based on an analysis of the critical factors within each of these domains, patients with probable or proven PTC can then be classified as ideal, appropriate, or inappropriate candidates for active surveillance. Risk stratification utilizing the proposed decision-making framework will improve the ability of clinicians to recognize individual patients with proven or probable PMC who are most likely to benefit from an active surveillance management option while at the same time identifying patients with proven or probable PMC that would be better served with an upfront biopsy and surgical management approach.

Occurrence of oculomotor dysfunctions in acquired brain injury: a retrospective analysis.

PubMed

Ciuffreda, Kenneth J; Kapoor, Neera; Rutner, Daniella; Suchoff, Irwin B; Han, M E; Craig, Shoshana

2007-04-01

The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the frequency of occurrence of oculomotor dysfunctions in a sample of ambulatory outpatients who have acquired brain injury (ABI), either traumatic brain injury (TBI) or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), with associated vision symptoms. Medical records of 220 individuals with either TBI (n = 160) or CVA (n = 60) were reviewed retrospectively. This was determined by a computer-based query spanning the years 2000 through 2003, for the frequency of occurrence of oculomotor dysfunctions including accommodation, version, vergence, strabismus, and cranial nerve (CN) palsy. The majority of individuals with either TBI (90%) or CVA (86.7%) manifested an oculomotor dysfunction. Accommodative and vergence deficits were most common in the TBI subgroup, whereas strabismus and CN palsy were most common in the CVA subgroup. The frequency of occurrence of versional deficits was similar in each diagnostic subgroup. These new findings should alert the clinician to the higher frequency of occurrence of oculomotor dysfunctions in these populations and the associated therapeutic, rehabilitative, and quality-of-life implications.

A fluctuating plume dispersion model for the prediction of odour-impact frequencies from continuous stationary sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mussio, P.; Gnyp, A. W.; Henshaw, P. F.

A fluctuating plume dispersion model has been developed to facilitate the prediction of odour-impact frequencies in the communities surrounding elevated point sources. The model was used to predict the frequencies of occurrence of odours of various magnitudes for 1 h periods. In addition, the model predicted the maximum odour level. The model was tested with an extensive set of data collected in the residential areas surrounding the paint shop of an automotive assembly plant. Most of the perceived odours in the vicinity of the 64, 46 m high stacks ranged between 2 and 7 odour units and generally persisted for less than 30 s. Ninety-eight different field determinations of odour impact frequencies within 1 km of the plant were conducted during the course of the study. To simplify evaluation, the frequencies of occurrence of different odour levels were summed to give the total frequency of occurrence of all readily detectable (>2 OU) odours. The model provided excellent simulation of the total frequencies of occurrence where the odour was frequent (i.e . readily detectable more than 30% of the time). At lower frequencies of occurrence the model prediction was poor. The stability class did not seem to affect the model's ability to predict field frequency values. However, the model provided excellent predictions of the maximum odour levels without being sensitive to either stability class or distance from the source. Ninety-five percent of the predicted maximum values were within a factor of two of the measured field maximum values.

Memory for Frequency of Occurrence in Retarded and Nonretarded Persons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ellis, Norman R.; Allison, Pamela

1988-01-01

Ninety-six mildly mentally retarded persons and 96 nonretarded college students estimated the frequency of occurrence of words and pictures in a study test paradigm. Frequency estimates were equal for words, but the nonretarded subjects were superior in accuracy on pictorial items. This finding points to an encoding deficiency attributed to…

Cardiovascular reactions to psychological stress and abuse history: the role of occurrence, frequency, and type of abuse.

PubMed

Ginty, Annie T; Masters, Nicole A; Nelson, Eliza B; Kaye, Karen T; Conklin, Sarah M

2017-03-01

Extreme cardiovascular reactions to psychological stress have been associated with traumatic life experiences. Previous studies have focused on the occurrence or frequency of abuse rather than type of abuse. We examined how occurrence, frequency, and the type of abuse history are related to cardiovascular reactivity (CVR) to acute psychological stress. The study consisted of between group and continuous analyses to examine the association between occurrence, type, and frequency of abuse with cardiovascular reactions to acute psychological stress. Data from 64 participants were collected. Heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure were measured at baseline and during a standard mental arithmetic stress task. Individuals who experienced abuse showed diminished CVR to acute psychological stress; this was driven specifically by the history of sexual abuse. Frequency of abuse did not relate to stress reactions. These findings accord with previous work suggesting a relationship between traumatic life experience and hypoarousal in physiological reactivity and extend previous findings by suggesting the relationship may be driven by sexual abuse.

Characteristics of cloud occurrence using ceilometer measurements and its relationship to precipitation over Seoul

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sanghee; Hwang, Seung-On; Kim, Jhoon; Ahn, Myoung-Hwan

2018-03-01

Clouds are an important component of the atmosphere that affects both climate and weather, however, their contributions can be very difficult to determine. Ceilometer measurements can provide high resolution information on atmospheric conditions such as cloud base height (CBH) and vertical frequency of cloud occurrence (CVF). This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of CBH and CVF derived using Vaisala CL51 ceilometers at two urban stations in Seoul, Korea, during a three-year period from January 2014 to December 2016. The average frequency of cloud occurrence detected by the ceilometers is 54.3%. It is found that the CL51 is better able to capture CBH as compared to another ceilometer CL31 at a nearby meteorological station because it could detect high clouds more accurately. Frequency distributions for CBH up to 13,000 m providing detailed vertical features with 500-m interval show 55% of CBHs below 2 km for aggregated CBHs. A bimodal frequency distribution was observed for three-layers CBHs. A monthly variation of CVF reveals that frequency concentration of lower clouds is found in summer and winter, and higher clouds more often detected in spring and autumn. Monthly distribution features of cloud occurrence and precipitation are depending on seasons and it might be easy to define their relationship due to higher degree of variability of precipitation than cloud occurrence. However, a fluctuation of cloud occurrence frequency in summer is similar to precipitation in trend, whereas clouds in winter are relatively frequent but precipitation is not accompanied. In addition, recent decrease of summer precipitation could be mostly explained by a decrease of cloud occurrence. Anomalous precipitation recorded sometimes is considerably related to corresponding cloud occurrence. The diurnal and daily variations of CBH and CVF from ceilometer observations and the analysis of microwave radiometer measurements for two typical cloudiness cases are also reviewed in parallel. This analysis in finer temporal scale exhibits that utilization of ground-based observations together could help to analyze the cloud behaviors.

[Thermo-sensitive period and critical temperature of fertility transition of thermo-photo-sensitive genic male sterile wheat].

PubMed

Zhang, Jiankui; Feng, Li; He, Liren; Yu, Guodong

2003-01-01

The thermo-sensitive period and the critical temperature of fertility transition of C49S, a principal thermo-photosensitive genic male sterile line in two-line hybrid wheat, was studied in the growth chambers for controlling temperature and photoperiod. The seeds were sown on different time for some years. The results showed that the thermo-sensitive period in fertility expression of C49S was from PMC formation stage to mature pollen stage, and there were two most sensitive stages to temperature on fertility expression. One was the PMC meiosis stage, and the other was the middle microspore stage. The critical temperatures evoking a complete male sterility were the mean minimum temperature at PMC meiosis stage (Tmin1), the mean temperature at microspore stage (T2) and the mean minimum temperature at microspore stage (Tmin2) lower than 8.5 degrees C, 13.5 degrees C and 10.5 degrees C, respectively. The critical temperatures keeping a nearly normal male fertility Tmin1 and T2 and Tmin2 were higher than 11.5 degrees C, 15.0 degrees C and 12.5 degrees C, respectively. The value as well as the conditions and the risks of thermo-photo-sensitive genic male sterile line of wheat applied to hybrid wheat were evaluated in this paper.

Solar cycle and long term variations of mesospheric ice layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lübken, Franz-Josef; Berger, Uwe; Kiliani, Johannes; Baumgarten, Gerd; Fiedler, Jens; Gerding, Michael

2010-05-01

Ice layers in the summer mesosphere at middle and polar latitudes, frequently called `noctilucent clouds' (NLC) or `polar mesosphere clouds'(PMC), are considered to be sensitive indicators of long term changes in the middle atmosphere. We present a summary of long term observations from the ground and from satellites and compare with results from the LIMA model (Leibniz Institute Middle Atmosphere Model). LIMA nicely reproduces mean conditions of the summer mesopause region and also mean characteristics of ice layers. LIMA nudges to ECMWF data in the troposphere and lower stratosphere which influences the background conditions in the mesosphere and thereby the morphology of ice clouds. A strong correlation between temperatures and PMC altitudes is observed. Applied to historical measurements this give s negligible temperature trends at PMC altitudes (approximately 0.01-0.02 K/y). Trace gas concentrations are kept constant in LIMA except for water vapor which is modified by variable solar radiation. Still, long term trends in temperatures and ice layer parameters are observed, consistent with observations. As will be shown, these trends originate in the stratosphere. Solar cycle effects are expected in ice layers due to variations in background temperatures and water paper. We will present results from LIMA regarding solar cycle variations and compare with NLC observations at our lidar stations in Kühlungsborn (54°N) and ALOMAR (69°N), and also with satellite measurements.

Outcomes of polytrauma patients with diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The impact of diabetes mellitus in patients with multiple system injuries remains obscure. This study was designed to increase knowledge of outcomes of polytrauma in patients who have diabetes mellitus. Methods Data from the Trauma Audit and Research Network was used to identify patients who had suffered polytrauma during 2003 to 2011. These patients were filtered to those with known outcomes, then separated into those with diabetes, those known to have other co-morbidities but not diabetes and those known not to have any co-morbidities or diabetes. The data were analyzed to establish if patients with diabetes had differing outcomes associated with their diabetes versus the other groups. Results In total, 222 patients had diabetes, 2,558 had no past medical co-morbidities (PMC), 2,709 had PMC but no diabetes. The diabetic group of patients was found to be older than the other groups (P <0.05). A higher mortality rate was found in the diabetic group compared to the non-PMC group (32.4% versus 12.9%), P <0.05). Rates of many complications including renal failure, myocardial infarction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis were all found to be higher in the diabetic group. Conclusions Close monitoring of diabetic patients may result in improved outcomes. Tighter glycemic control and earlier intervention for complications may reduce mortality and morbidity. PMID:25026864

Extending the limits of force endurance: Stimulation of the motor or the frontal cortex?

PubMed

Radel, Rémi; Tempest, Gavin; Denis, Gauthier; Besson, Pierre; Zory, Raphael

2017-12-01

Previous findings indicate that facilitation of primary motor cortex (PMC) activity using trans-cranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) could improve resistance to physical fatigue. However, studies have failed to consistently replicate these results. Using non-focal-tDCS during a fatiguing task, recent work showed no enhancement of corticospinal excitability of the PMC despite a longer endurance time and suggested that contamination in other brain regions involved in motor command may have occurred. In accordance with recent evidence supporting the role of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in exercise maintenance, this double-blind sham-controlled crossover study (N = 22) compared the effect of high definition (HD)-tDCS of the PMC or the PFC on endurance time of a sustained contraction task of the elbow flexor. Brain activity was monitored using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure the neurovascular response elicited by HD-tDCS. Electromyography (EMG) and force obtained during maximal voluntary and evoked contractions were assessed before and after the contraction task to explore the effect of brain stimulation on peripheral and central fatigue. While the stimulation affected the brain response in the PFC during the contraction task, no effects of the stimulation were observed on endurance time or fatigue indices. These results are discussed in relation to the neurocognitive models of physical effort. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sampling western spruce budworm larvae by frequency of occurrence on lower crown branches.

Treesearch

R.R. Mason; R.C. Beckwith

1990-01-01

A sampling method was derived whereby budworm density can be estimated by the frequency of occurrence of larvae over a given threshold number instead of by direct counts on branch samples. The model used for converting frequencies to mean densities is appropriate for nonrandom as well as random distributions and, therefore, is applicable to all population densities of...

Laboratory studies of VUV photochemistry of water ice: measurements of photodesorption rates and implication for Polar Mesospheric Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulikov, Mikhail; Feigin, Alexander; Ignatov, Stanislav; Sennikov, Petr; Schrems, Otto

Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMC) are the highest clouds of the Earth's atmosphere. They are formed during summer at middle to high latitudes in an altitude range between 80 and 90 km when the air temperature drops below 150K. The particles of PMC consist primarily of ice [1] and are formed as a result of water vapor condensation. In the day time, PMC are subjected to strong solar Lyman -α irradiation with the wavelength of 121.6 nm which penetrates into ice particles and is absorbed essentially. This leads to photodissociation of H2 O molecules and to formation of mobile and chemically active components in the solid phase. As a result, a whole spectrum of physicochemical processes can be initiated inside the particles: diffusion of primary products, chemical formation of secondary products, accumulation of both type of products in the ice matrix and their escaping into gas-phase. Murray and Plane [2] hypothesized that the last process is dominant, i.e. each Lyman -α photon absorbed by a particle of PMC results in the ejection of one H atom and one OH radical into gas phase that provides essential enhancement of HOx concentration with a corresponding increase in Ox removal. Nevertheless, they justly pointed to the need of laboratory measurements of the H and OH yield from ice under conditions pertinent to the summer mesosphere. We have carried out first laboratory studies of water ice photochemistry to acquiring knowledge about physicochemical processes inside particles of PMC initiated by solar irradiation. The experimental set-up used includes a high-vacuum chamber, a gas-inlet system, a refrigerator-cryostat with temperature controller, a FTIR spectrometer, a vacuum ultraviolet hydrogen lamp and a microwave generator. This work presents results of measurements of the absolute photodesorption rate (loss of substance due to the escape of photoproducts into gas phase) from thin (20-100nm) water ice samples at temperatures of 120-150 K. The data obtained demonstrate that the flow of photoproducts into the gas phase is essentially less as predicted by Murray and Plane [2]. Nearly all the photoproducts remain in the solid phase, and the principal chemical reaction between them is the recombination reaction H+OH->H2O which is evidently very fast. 1. M. Hervig, R.E. Thompson, M. McHugh, L.L. Gordley, J.M. Russell III, and M.E. Sum-mers, First confirmation that water ice is the primary component of polar mesospheric clouds, Geophys. Res. Lett., 28, 971-974, 2001. 2. B.J. Murray and J.M.C. Plane, Modelling the impact of noctilucent cloud formation on atomic oxygen and other minor constituents of the summer mesosphere, Atmos. Chem. Phys., 5, 1027-1038, 2005.

Topographic controls on overland flow generation in a forest - An ensemble tree approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loos, Martin; Elsenbeer, Helmut

2011-10-01

SummaryOverland flow is an important hydrological pathway in many forests of the humid tropics. Its generation is subject to topographic controls at differing spatial scales. Our objective was to identify such controls on the occurrence of overland flow in a lowland tropical rainforest. To this end, we installed 95 overland flow detectors (OFDs) in four nested subcatchments of the Lutzito catchment on Barro Colorado Island, Panama, and monitored the frequency of overland flow occurrence during 18 rainfall events at each OFD location temporal frequency. For each such location, we derived three non-digital terrain attributes and 17 digital ones, of which 15 were based on Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of three different resolutions. These attributes then served as input into a Random Forest ensemble tree model to elucidate the importance and partial and joint dependencies of topographic controls for overland flow occurrence. Lutzito features a high median temporal frequency in overland flow occurrence of 0.421 among OFD locations. However, spatial temporal frequencies of overland flow occurrence vary strongly among these locations and the subcatchments of Lutzito catchment. This variability is best explained by (1) microtopography, (2) coarse terrain sloping and (3) various measures of distance-to-channel, with the contribution of all other terrain attributes being small. Microtopographic features such as concentrated flowlines and wash areas produce highest temporal frequencies, whereas the occurrence of overland flow drops sharply for flow distances and terrain sloping beyond certain threshold values. Our study contributes to understanding both the spatial controls on overland flow generation and the limitations of terrain attributes for the spatially explicit prediction of overland flow frequencies.

Molecular Dynamics Studies of Polyethylene Oxide and Polyethylene Glycol: Hydrodynamic Radius and Shape Anisotropy

PubMed Central

Lee, Hwankyu; Venable, Richard M.; MacKerell, Alexander D.; Pastor, Richard W.

2008-01-01

A revision (C35r) to the CHARMM ether force field is shown to reproduce experimentally observed conformational populations of dimethoxyethane. Molecular dynamics simulations of 9, 18, 27, and 36-mers of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and 27-mers of polyethylene glycol (PEG) in water based on C35r yield a persistence length λ = 3.7 Å, in quantitative agreement with experimentally obtained values of 3.7 Å for PEO and 3.8 Å for PEG; agreement with experimental values for hydrodynamic radii of comparably sized PEG is also excellent. The exponent υ relating the radius of gyration and molecular weight (\\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{g}}}{\\propto}M_{{\\mathrm{w}}}^{{\\upsilon}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}) of PEO from the simulations equals 0.515 ± 0.023, consistent with experimental observations that low molecular weight PEG behaves as an ideal chain. The shape anisotropy of hydrated PEO is 2.59:1.44:1.00. The dimension of the middle length for each of the polymers nearly equals the hydrodynamic radius \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{h}}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}obtained from diffusion measurements in solution. This explains the correspondence of \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{h}}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document} and \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}R_{{\\mathrm{p}}},\\end{equation*}\\end{document} the pore radius of membrane channels: a polymer such as PEG diffuses with its long axis parallel to the membrane channel, and passes through the channel without substantial distortion. PMID:18456821

Regulation of DNA repair mechanism in human glioma xenograft cells both in vitro and in vivo in nude mice.

PubMed

Ponnala, Shivani; Veeravalli, Krishna Kumar; Chetty, Chandramu; Dinh, Dzung H; Rao, Jasti S

2011-01-01

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most lethal form of brain tumor. Efficient DNA repair and anti-apoptotic mechanisms are making glioma treatment difficult. Proteases such as MMP9, cathepsin B and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) are over expressed in gliomas and contribute to enhanced cancer cell proliferation. Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair mechanism plays a major role in double strand break (DSB) repair in mammalian cells. Here we show that silencing MMP9 in combination with uPAR/cathepsin B effects NHEJ repair machinery. Expression of DNA PKcs and Ku70/80 at both mRNA and protein levels in MMP9-uPAR (pMU) and MMP9-cathepsin B (pMC) shRNA-treated glioma xenograft cells were reduced. FACS analysis showed an increase in apoptotic peak and proliferation assays revealed a significant reduction in the cell population in pMU- and pMC-treated cells compared to untreated cells. We hypothesized that reduced NHEJ repair led to DSBs accumulation in pMU- and pMC-treated cells, thereby initiating cell death. This hypothesis was confirmed by reduced Ku70/Ku80 protein binding to DSB, increased comet tail length and elevated γH2AX expression in treated cells compared to control. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that EGFR-mediated lowered DNA PK activity in treated cells compared to controls. Treatment with pMU and pMC shRNA reduced the expression of DNA PKcs and ATM, and elevated γH2AX levels in xenograft implanted nude mice. Glioma cells exposed to hypoxia and irradiation showed DSB accumulation and apoptosis after pMU and pMC treatments compared to respective controls. Our results suggest that pMU and pMC shRNA reduce glioma proliferation by DSB accumulation and increase apoptosis under normoxia, hypoxia and in combination with irradiation. Considering the radio- and chemo-resistant cancers favored by hypoxia, our study provides important therapeutic potential of MMP9, uPAR and cathepsin B shRNA in the treatment of glioma from clinical stand point.

Regulation of DNA Repair Mechanism in Human Glioma Xenograft Cells both In Vitro and In Vivo in Nude Mice

PubMed Central

Ponnala, Shivani; Veeravalli, Krishna Kumar; Chetty, Chandramu; Dinh, Dzung H.; Rao, Jasti S.

2011-01-01

Background Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most lethal form of brain tumor. Efficient DNA repair and anti-apoptotic mechanisms are making glioma treatment difficult. Proteases such as MMP9, cathepsin B and urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) are over expressed in gliomas and contribute to enhanced cancer cell proliferation. Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair mechanism plays a major role in double strand break (DSB) repair in mammalian cells. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we show that silencing MMP9 in combination with uPAR/cathepsin B effects NHEJ repair machinery. Expression of DNA PKcs and Ku70/80 at both mRNA and protein levels in MMP9-uPAR (pMU) and MMP9-cathepsin B (pMC) shRNA-treated glioma xenograft cells were reduced. FACS analysis showed an increase in apoptotic peak and proliferation assays revealed a significant reduction in the cell population in pMU- and pMC-treated cells compared to untreated cells. We hypothesized that reduced NHEJ repair led to DSBs accumulation in pMU- and pMC-treated cells, thereby initiating cell death. This hypothesis was confirmed by reduced Ku70/Ku80 protein binding to DSB, increased comet tail length and elevated γH2AX expression in treated cells compared to control. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that EGFR-mediated lowered DNA PK activity in treated cells compared to controls. Treatment with pMU and pMC shRNA reduced the expression of DNA PKcs and ATM, and elevated γH2AX levels in xenograft implanted nude mice. Glioma cells exposed to hypoxia and irradiation showed DSB accumulation and apoptosis after pMU and pMC treatments compared to respective controls. Conclusion/Significance Our results suggest that pMU and pMC shRNA reduce glioma proliferation by DSB accumulation and increase apoptosis under normoxia, hypoxia and in combination with irradiation. Considering the radio- and chemo-resistant cancers favored by hypoxia, our study provides important therapeutic potential of MMP9, uPAR and cathepsin B shRNA in the treatment of glioma from clinical stand point. PMID:22022560

Clinicians' Views on Management and Terminology for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma: A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Nickel, Brooke; Brito, Juan P; Barratt, Alexandra; Jordan, Susan; Moynihan, Ray; McCaffery, Kirsten

2017-05-01

There is growing acceptance that the increase in thyroid cancer incidence is in part a result of overdiagnosis of small low-risk papillary microcarcinomas (PMCs) with indolent clinical course. Although surgery is the cornerstone treatment for patients with PMCs, recent management guidelines are shifting toward inclusion of more conservative treatments such as active surveillance. There is little evidence on clinicians' experience in managing PMC patients and their attitudes toward treatment options, including their willingness to accept a nonsurgical option. The aim of this study was to understand how clinicians perceive a diagnosis of PMC, potential changes to terminology, and the treatment options available to patients. This was a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews conducted between November 2015 and May 2016 with 22 clinicians (seven endocrinologists and 15 thyroid surgeons). Transcribed audio-recordings were thematically coded, and a framework method was used to analyze the data. Across a sample of clinicians who manage thyroid cancer patients, awareness of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of PMC was common. However, there was little acceptance of active surveillance to manage these patients. Clinicians did not feel comfortable recommending this management approach, as they were worried about the risk of metastases, did not feel that evidence to support this approach was strong enough, and also believed that patients currently have a high preference for surgery. The majority of clinicians did not believe that changing the terminology of this diagnosis was a viable strategy to reduce patients' anxiety and their perceived preference for more aggressive treatments. However, most clinicians felt that thyroid nodules <1 cm should not be biopsied, which could help minimize the risk of overdiagnosis of PMC. This study, based on a non-representative sample of 22 clinicians, which remains an important limitation, provides revealing insight into clinicians' management preferences and decision making for small low-risk thyroid cancers at a time when management guidelines and practices are evolving. It suggests that clinicians may not be ready to accept nonsurgical options, or changes in terminology, until evidence to support these options and changes is stronger.

Co-occurrence frequency evaluated with large language corpora boosts semantic priming effects.

PubMed

Brunellière, Angèle; Perre, Laetitia; Tran, ThiMai; Bonnotte, Isabelle

2017-09-01

In recent decades, many computational techniques have been developed to analyse the contextual usage of words in large language corpora. The present study examined whether the co-occurrence frequency obtained from large language corpora might boost purely semantic priming effects. Two experiments were conducted: one with conscious semantic priming, the other with subliminal semantic priming. Both experiments contrasted three semantic priming contexts: an unrelated priming context and two related priming contexts with word pairs that are semantically related and that co-occur either frequently or infrequently. In the conscious priming presentation (166-ms stimulus-onset asynchrony, SOA), a semantic priming effect was recorded in both related priming contexts, which was greater with higher co-occurrence frequency. In the subliminal priming presentation (66-ms SOA), no significant priming effect was shown, regardless of the related priming context. These results show that co-occurrence frequency boosts pure semantic priming effects and are discussed with reference to models of semantic network.

Using probabilistic criteria in an assessment of the potential radiological consequences of the decommissioning of a nuclear research reactor

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

Wallner, Christian; Rall, Anna-Maria; Thummerer, Severin

In order to assess the risk of radiological consequences of incidents and accidents in nuclear facilities it is important to contemplate their frequency of occurrence. It has to be shown that incidents and accidents occur sufficiently seldom according to their radiological consequences i. e. the occurrence frequency of radiological doses has to be limited. This is even demanded by the German radiation protection ordinance (StrlSchV), which says that in nuclear facilities other than nuclear power plants (NPP) in operation and for decommissioning, the occurrence frequency of incidents and accidents shall be contemplated in order to prove the design of safetymore » measures and safety installations. Based on the ideas of the ICRP64, we developed a risk based assessment concept for nuclear facilities, which fulfils the requirements of the German regulations concerning dose limits in normal operation and design basis accidents. The general use of the concept is dedicated to nuclear facilities other than nuclear power plants (NPP) in operation and for decommissioning, where the regulation of risk assessment is less sophisticated. The concept specifies occurrence frequency limits for radiation exposure dose ranges, i. e. the occurrence frequency of incidents and accidents has to be limited according to their radiological effects. To apply this concept, scenarios of incidents and accidents are grouped in exposition classes according to their resulting potential effective dose to members of the general public. The occurrence frequencies of the incidents and accidents are summarized in each exposition class whereas the sum must not exceed the frequency limits mentioned above. In the following we introduce the application of this concept in the assessment of the potential radiological consequences of the decommissioning of a nuclear research reactor. We carried out this assessment for the licensing process of the decommissioning on behalf of German authorities. (authors)« less

Effects on RCS of a perfect electromagnetic conductor sphere in the presence of anisotropic plasma layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghaffar, A.; Hussan, M. M.; Illahi, A.; Alkanhal, Majeed A. S.; Ur Rehman, Sajjad; Naz, M. Y.

2018-01-01

Effects on RCS of perfect electromagnetic conductor (PEMC) sphere by coating with anisotropic plasma layer are studied in this paper. The incident, scattered and transmitted electromagnetic fields are expanded in term of spherical vector wave functions using extended classical theory of scattering. Co and cross-polarized scattered field coefficients are obtained at the interface of free space-anisotropic plasma and at anisotropic plasma-PEMC sphere core by scattering matrices method. The presented analytical expressions are general for any perfect conducting sphere (PMC, PEC, or PEMC) with general anisotropic/isotropic material coatings that include plasma and metamaterials. The behavior of the forward and backscattered radar cross section of PEMC sphere with the variation of the magnetic field strength, incident frequency, plasma density, and effective collision frequency for the co-polarized and the cross polarized fields are investigated. It is also observed from the obtained results that anisotropic layer on PEMC sphere shows reciprocal behavior as compared to isotopic plasma layer on PEMC sphere. The comparisons of the numerical results of the presented analytical expressions with available results of some special cases show the correctness of the analysis.

Performance Analysis of Occurrences January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

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

Ludwig, M

2012-03-16

This report documents the analysis of the occurrences during the period January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011. The report compares LLNL occurrences by reporting criteria and significance category to see if LLNL is reporting occurrences along similar percentages as other DOE sites. The three-year trends are analyzed. It does not include the analysis of the causes or the lessons learned from the occurrences, as they are analyzed separately. The number and types of occurrences that LLNL reports to DOE varies over time. This variation can be attributed to normally occurring changes in frequency; DOE's or LLNL's heightened interest inmore » a particular subject area; changes in LLNL processes; or emerging problems. Since all of the DOE sites use the same reporting criteria, it is helpful to understand if LLNL is consistent with or diverging from reporting at other sites. This section compares the normalized number of occurrences reported by LLNL and other DOE sites. In order to compare LLNL occurrence reports to occurrence reports from other DOE sites, we normalized (or standardized) the data from the sites. DOE sites vary widely in their budgets, populations, and scope of work and these variations may affect reporting frequency. In addition, reports are required for a wide range of occurrence types, some of which may not be applicable to all DOE sites. For example, one occurrence reporting group is Group 3, Nuclear Safety Basis, and not all sites have nuclear operations. Because limited information is available for all sites, the sites were normalized based on best available information. Site effort hours were extracted from the DOE Computerized Accident Incident Reporting System (CAIRS) and used to normalize (or standardize) the number of occurrences by site. Effort hours are those hours that employees normally work and do not include vacation, holiday hours etc. Sites are responsible for calculating their effort hours and ensuring entry into CAIRS. Out of the 30 DOE sites that reported occurrences into ORPS during January 2011 through December 2011, 28 had effort hours available in CAIRS. Two sites had not submitted effort hours data to CAIRS as of the time data was pulled for this report. In those two cases, third quarter data was used as an estimate of fourth quarter data. The use of estimated data may introduce minor errors in the average, median, and Pearson calculations. Using the effort hours and the frequency of occurrences by site, a rate of occurrence frequency per 100 FTE workers was calculated. This rate is similar to the injury/illness frequency rate: the number of injury/illness cases per 100 FTE workers. To validate that this rate was appropriate to use, we compared the effort hours and the frequency of occurrences by site to determine if a relationship exists between the two, e.g. the more effort hours a site has, the more occurrences they tend to have. This hypothesis was tested using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient Test. The correlation coefficient measures the strength of the linear relationship between effort hours and occurrence frequency. The Pearson Correlation Coefficient Test will determine if the true correlation coefficient is equal to zero (no relationship exists), or if the correlation coefficient is not equal to zero (a relationship exists). Values approaching 1.00 show a more positive correlation. Simple linear regression was also used to display a trend line and to test if a one-way relationship exists between effort hours predicting the number of occurrences a site will have. Using the Pearson Correlation test, for the NNSA sites, effort hours and the number of occurrences are significantly and positively correlated with a correlation coefficient of 0.90, as was also seen in the previous report (correlation coefficient of 0.67). All DOE sites are positively correlated with a coefficient of 0.85. As the effort hours increase, so does the number of occurrences and vice versa. Based on the results of the simple linear regression, effort hours were found to predict the number of occurrences.« less

Constitutive Modeling and Testing of Polymer Matrix Composites Incorporating Physical Aging at Elevated Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Veazie, David R.

1998-01-01

Advanced polymer matrix composites (PMC's) are desirable for structural materials in diverse applications such as aircraft, civil infrastructure and biomedical implants because of their improved strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios. For example, the next generation military and commercial aircraft requires applications for high strength, low weight structural components subjected to elevated temperatures. A possible disadvantage of polymer-based composites is that the physical and mechanical properties of the matrix often change significantly over time due to the exposure of elevated temperatures and environmental factors. For design, long term exposure (i.e. aging) of PMC's must be accounted for through constitutive models in order to accurately assess the effects of aging on performance, crack initiation and remaining life. One particular aspect of this aging process, physical aging, is considered in this research.

Development of GENOA Progressive Failure Parallel Processing Software Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdi, Frank; Minnetyan, Levon

1999-01-01

A capability consisting of software development and experimental techniques has been developed and is described. The capability is integrated into GENOA-PFA to model polymer matrix composite (PMC) structures. The capability considers the physics and mechanics of composite materials and structure by integration of a hierarchical multilevel macro-scale (lamina, laminate, and structure) and micro scale (fiber, matrix, and interface) simulation analyses. The modeling involves (1) ply layering methodology utilizing FEM elements with through-the-thickness representation, (2) simulation of effects of material defects and conditions (e.g., voids, fiber waviness, and residual stress) on global static and cyclic fatigue strengths, (3) including material nonlinearities (by updating properties periodically) and geometrical nonlinearities (by Lagrangian updating), (4) simulating crack initiation. and growth to failure under static, cyclic, creep, and impact loads. (5) progressive fracture analysis to determine durability and damage tolerance. (6) identifying the percent contribution of various possible composite failure modes involved in critical damage events. and (7) determining sensitivities of failure modes to design parameters (e.g., fiber volume fraction, ply thickness, fiber orientation. and adhesive-bond thickness). GENOA-PFA progressive failure analysis is now ready for use to investigate the effects on structural responses to PMC material degradation from damage induced by static, cyclic (fatigue). creep, and impact loading in 2D/3D PMC structures subjected to hygrothermal environments. Its use will significantly facilitate targeting design parameter changes that will be most effective in reducing the probability of a given failure mode occurring.

Ca(2+) homeostasis in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Impact of ER/Golgi Ca(2+) storage.

PubMed

D'hooge, Petra; Coun, Catherina; Van Eyck, Vincent; Faes, Liesbeth; Ghillebert, Ruben; Mariën, Lore; Winderickx, Joris; Callewaert, Geert

2015-08-01

Yeast has proven to be a powerful tool to elucidate the molecular aspects of several biological processes in higher eukaryotes. As in mammalian cells, yeast intracellular Ca(2+) signalling is crucial for a myriad of biological processes. Yeast cells also bear homologs of the major components of the Ca(2+) signalling toolkit in mammalian cells, including channels, co-transporters and pumps. Using yeast single- and multiple-gene deletion strains of various plasma membrane and organellar Ca(2+) transporters, combined with manipulations to estimate intracellular Ca(2+) storage, we evaluated the contribution of individual transport systems to intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. Yeast strains lacking Pmr1 and/or Cod1, two ion pumps implicated in ER/Golgi Ca(2+) homeostasis, displayed a fragmented vacuolar phenotype and showed increased vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake and Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane. In the pmr1Δ strain, these effects were insensitive to calcineurin activity, independent of Cch1/Mid1 Ca(2+) channels and Pmc1 but required Vcx1. By contrast, in the cod1Δ strain increased vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake was not affected by Vcx1 deletion but was largely dependent on Pmc1 activity. Our analysis further corroborates the distinct roles of Vcx1 and Pmc1 in vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake and point to the existence of not-yet identified Ca(2+) influx pathways. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Respiratory Effects of Fine and Ultrafine Particles from Indoor Sources—A Randomized Sham-Controlled Exposure Study of Healthy Volunteers

PubMed Central

Soppa, Vanessa J.; Schins, Roel P. F.; Hennig, Frauke; Hellack, Bryan; Quass, Ulrich; Kaminski, Heinz; Kuhlbusch, Thomas A. J.; Hoffmann, Barbara; Weinmayr, Gudrun

2014-01-01

Particulate air pollution is linked to impaired respiratory health. We analyzed particle emissions from common indoor sources (candles burning (CB), toasting bread (TB), frying sausages (FS)) and lung function in 55 healthy volunteers (mean age 33.0 years) in a randomized cross-over controlled exposure study. Lung-deposited particle surface area concentration (PSC), size-specific particle number concentration (PNC) up to 10 µm, and particle mass concentration (PMC) of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 were determined during exposure (2 h). FEV1, FVC and MEF25%–75% was measured before, 4 h and 24 h after exposure. Wilcoxon-rank sum tests (comparing exposure scenarios) and mixed linear regression using particle concentrations and adjusting for personal characteristics, travel time and transportation means before exposure sessions were performed. While no effect was seen comparing the exposure scenarios and in the unadjusted model, inverse associations were found for PMC from CB and FS in relation to FEV1 and MEF25%–75%. with a change in 10 µg/m3 in PM2.5 from CB being associated with a change in FEV1 of −19 mL (95%-confidence interval:−43; 5) after 4 h. PMC from TB and PNC of UFP were not associated with lung function changes, but PSC from CB was. Elevated indoor fine particles from certain sources may be associated with small decreases in lung function in healthy adults. PMID:25000149

7 CFR 993.172 - Reports of holdings, receipts, uses, and shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Marketing Agreements and Orders; Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts), DEPARTMENT OF... the next succeeding month, a signed report on Form PMC 11.1, “New Crop Supply and Inbound Prune Report...

77 FR 55895 - Meeting: RTCA Program Management Committee (PMC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-11

... Enhanced Flight Vision System to Enable All-Weather Approach, Landing and Roll-Out to a Safe Taxi Speed... but limited to space availability. With the approval of the chairman, members of the public may...

Workshop presentation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-01

On December 18, 2013, the research team hosted a workshop at CTR to gather feedback on and : generate discussion of the mode choice model that was developed. : Attendees included the project monitoring committee (PMC) and TTI personnel who staff a he...

A statistical study on the occurrence of discrete frequencies in the high velocity solar wind and in the magnetosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Matteo, Simone; Villante, Umberto

2016-04-01

The possible occurrence of oscillations at discrete frequencies in the solar wind and their possible correspondence with magnetospheric field oscillations represent an interesting aspect of the solar wind/magnetopheric research. We analyze a large set of high velocity streams following interplanetary shocks in order to ascertain the possible occurrence of preferential sets of discrete frequencies in the oscillations of the solar wind pressure in such structures. We evaluate, for each event, the power spectrum of the dynamic pressure by means of two methods (Welch and multitaper windowing) and accept the common spectral peaks that also pass a harmonic F-test at the 95% confidence level. We compare these frequencies with those detected at geosynchronous orbit in the magnetospheric field components soon after the manifestation of the corresponding Sudden Impulses.

Sulfur-infiltrated porous carbon microspheres with controllable multi-modal pore size distribution for high energy lithium-sulfur batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Cunyu; Liu, Lianjun; Zhao, Huilei; Krall, Andy; Wen, Zhenhai; Chen, Junhong; Hurley, Patrick; Jiang, Junwei; Li, Ying

2013-12-01

Sulfur has received increasing attention as a cathode material for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries due to its high theoretical specific capacity. However, the commercialization of Li-S batteries is limited by the challenges of poor electrical conductivity of sulfur, dissolution of the polysulfide intermediates into the electrolyte, and volume expansion of sulfur during cycling. Herein, we report the fabrication of novel-structured porous carbon microspheres with a controllable multi-modal pore size distribution, i.e., a combination of interconnected micropores, mesopores and macropores. Cathodes made of sulfur infiltrated in such a hierarchical carbon framework provide several advantages: (1) a continuous and high surface area carbon network for enhanced electrical conductivity and high sulfur loading; (2) macropores and large mesopores bridged by small mesopores to provide good electrolyte accessibility and fast Li ion transport and to accommodate volume expansion of sulfur; and (3) small mesopores and micropores to improve carbon/sulfur interaction and to help trap polysulfides. An initial discharge capacity at 1278 mA h g-1 and capacity retention at 70.7% (904 mA h g-1) after 100 cycles at a high rate (1 C) were achieved. The material fabrication process is relatively simple and easily scalable.Sulfur has received increasing attention as a cathode material for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries due to its high theoretical specific capacity. However, the commercialization of Li-S batteries is limited by the challenges of poor electrical conductivity of sulfur, dissolution of the polysulfide intermediates into the electrolyte, and volume expansion of sulfur during cycling. Herein, we report the fabrication of novel-structured porous carbon microspheres with a controllable multi-modal pore size distribution, i.e., a combination of interconnected micropores, mesopores and macropores. Cathodes made of sulfur infiltrated in such a hierarchical carbon framework provide several advantages: (1) a continuous and high surface area carbon network for enhanced electrical conductivity and high sulfur loading; (2) macropores and large mesopores bridged by small mesopores to provide good electrolyte accessibility and fast Li ion transport and to accommodate volume expansion of sulfur; and (3) small mesopores and micropores to improve carbon/sulfur interaction and to help trap polysulfides. An initial discharge capacity at 1278 mA h g-1 and capacity retention at 70.7% (904 mA h g-1) after 100 cycles at a high rate (1 C) were achieved. The material fabrication process is relatively simple and easily scalable. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Preparation process scheme; X-ray mapping images and EDX analysis for the surface of PMC/S-40; X-ray mapping images for the cross-section of PMC/S-40; thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of PMC/S samples; T-plot results for PMC sample; and electrochemical measurements of lithium-sulfur batteries using PMC/S as cathode materials. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr04532c

GRC-2008-C-00349

NASA Image and Video Library

2004-02-26

Code R and Code D hosted NESC Principal Engineer Mike Kirsch who is Program Leader for Composite Crew Module (CCM). The purpose of the visit was to review/observe experiments that GRC is performing in support of the CCM program. The test object is the critical Low Impact Docking System/Tunnel interface joint that links the metal docking ring with the polymer composite tunnel element of the crew module pressure vessel. The rectangular specimens simulated the splice joint between the aluminum and the PMC sheets, including a PMC doubler sheet. GRC was selected for these tests due to our expertise in composite testing and our ability to perform 3D fullfield displacement and strain measurements of the complex bond geometry using digital image correlation. The specimens performed above their minimum load requirements and the full field strain measurements showed the strain levels at the critical bond line. This work is part of a joint Code D & R investigation.

Issues to be addressed in the design and fabrication of ultralightweight meter-class optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krumweide, Gary C.

1998-08-01

There is a growing need for large aperture, ultralightweight, deployable optics for various science, military and commercial compact satellites. This paper will examine the engineering and manufacturing considerations that must be addressed in order to satisfy the requirements for these sought after optics. In order to limit the scope of this paper, only Graphite Fiber Reinforced/Polymer Matrix Composites (GFR/PMC) will be under consideration because of the potential to satisfy ultralightweight mirror requirements. The requirements associated with specular mirror concepts that Composite Optics, Incorporated (COI) has proposed to Air Force Research Laboratory and NASA Langley Research Center for visible range optics and LIDAR optics, respectively, will also be our interest. Moreover, it is the intent of this paper to illustrate how COI's proposed design/manufacturing concepts for visible and LIDAR optics have evolved based on overcoming, or working around, material constraints and/or undesirable characteristics associated with GFR/PMC.

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

Grewal, Jaspreet S.; McLuskey, Karen; Das, Debanu

The structure of a C11 peptidase PmC11 from the gut bacterium, Parabacteroides merdae, has recently been determined, enabling the identification and characterization of a C11 orthologue, PNT1, in the parasitic protozoon Trypanosoma brucei. A phylogenetic analysis identified PmC11 orthologues in bacteria, archaea, Chromerids, Coccidia, and Kinetoplastida, the latter being the most divergent. A primary sequence alignment of PNT1 with clostripain and PmC11 revealed the position of the characteristic His-Cys catalytic dyad (His 99 and Cys 136), and an Asp (Asp 134) in the potential S 1 binding site. Immunofluorescence and cryoelectron microscopy revealed that PNT1 localizes to the kinetoplast, anmore » organelle containing the mitochondrial genome of the parasite (kDNA), with an accumulation of the protein at or near the antipodal sites. Depletion of PNT1 by RNAi in the T. brucei bloodstream form was lethal both in in vitro culture and in vivo in mice and the induced population accumulated cells lacking a kinetoplast. In contrast, overexpression of PNT1 led to cells having mislocated kinetoplasts. RNAi depletion of PNT1 in a kDNA independent cell line resulted in kinetoplast loss but was viable, indicating that PNT1 is required exclusively for kinetoplast maintenance. Expression of a recoded wild-type PNT1 allele, but not of an active site mutant restored parasite viability after induction in vitro and in vivo confirming that the peptidase activity of PNT1 is essential for parasite survival. Furthermore, these data provide evidence that PNT1 is a cysteine peptidase that is required exclusively for maintenance of the trypanosome kinetoplast.« less

Distinct frontal lobe morphology in girls and boys with ADHD.

PubMed

Dirlikov, Benjamin; Shiels Rosch, Keri; Crocetti, Deana; Denckla, Martha B; Mahone, E Mark; Mostofsky, Stewart H

2015-01-01

This study investigated whether frontal lobe cortical morphology differs for boys and girls with ADHD (ages 8-12 years) in comparison to typically developing (TD) peers. Participants included 226 children between the ages of 8-12 including 93 children with ADHD (29 girls) and 133 TD children (42 girls) for which 3T MPRAGE MRI scans were obtained. A fully automated frontal lobe atlas was used to generate functionally distinct frontal subdivisions, with surface area (SA) and cortical thickness (CT) assessed in each region. Analyses focused on overall diagnostic differences as well as examinations of the effect of diagnosis within boys and girls. Girls, but not boys, with ADHD showed overall reductions in total prefrontal cortex (PFC) SA. Localization revealed that girls showed widely distributed reductions in the bilateral dorsolateral PFC, left inferior lateral PFC, right medial PFC, right orbitofrontal cortex, and left anterior cingulate; and boys showed reduced SA only in the right anterior cingulate and left medial PFC. In contrast, boys, but not girls, with ADHD showed overall reductions in total premotor cortex (PMC) SA. Further localization revealed that in boys, premotor reductions were observed in bilateral lateral PMC regions; and in girls reductions were observed in bilateral supplementary motor complex. In line with diagnostic group differences, PMC and PFC SAs were inversely correlated with symptom severity in both girls and boys with ADHD. These results elucidate sex-based differences in cortical morphology of functional subdivisions of the frontal lobe and provide additional evidence of associations among SA and symptom severity in children with ADHD.

Early musical training is linked to gray matter structure in the ventral premotor cortex and auditory-motor rhythm synchronization performance.

PubMed

Bailey, Jennifer Anne; Zatorre, Robert J; Penhune, Virginia B

2014-04-01

Evidence in animals and humans indicates that there are sensitive periods during development, times when experience or stimulation has a greater influence on behavior and brain structure. Sensitive periods are the result of an interaction between maturational processes and experience-dependent plasticity mechanisms. Previous work from our laboratory has shown that adult musicians who begin training before the age of 7 show enhancements in behavior and white matter structure compared with those who begin later. Plastic changes in white matter and gray matter are hypothesized to co-occur; therefore, the current study investigated possible differences in gray matter structure between early-trained (ET; <7) and late-trained (LT; >7) musicians, matched for years of experience. Gray matter structure was assessed using voxel-wise analysis techniques (optimized voxel-based morphometry, traditional voxel-based morphometry, and deformation-based morphometry) and surface-based measures (cortical thickness, surface area and mean curvature). Deformation-based morphometry analyses identified group differences between ET and LT musicians in right ventral premotor cortex (vPMC), which correlated with performance on an auditory motor synchronization task and with age of onset of musical training. In addition, cortical surface area in vPMC was greater for ET musicians. These results are consistent with evidence that premotor cortex shows greatest maturational change between the ages of 6-9 years and that this region is important for integrating auditory and motor information. We propose that the auditory and motor interactions required by musical practice drive plasticity in vPMC and that this plasticity is greatest when maturation is near its peak.

Modeling and analysis of cell membrane systems with probabilistic model checking

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Recently there has been a growing interest in the application of Probabilistic Model Checking (PMC) for the formal specification of biological systems. PMC is able to exhaustively explore all states of a stochastic model and can provide valuable insight into its behavior which are more difficult to see using only traditional methods for system analysis such as deterministic and stochastic simulation. In this work we propose a stochastic modeling for the description and analysis of sodium-potassium exchange pump. The sodium-potassium pump is a membrane transport system presents in all animal cell and capable of moving sodium and potassium ions against their concentration gradient. Results We present a quantitative formal specification of the pump mechanism in the PRISM language, taking into consideration a discrete chemistry approach and the Law of Mass Action aspects. We also present an analysis of the system using quantitative properties in order to verify the pump reversibility and understand the pump behavior using trend labels for the transition rates of the pump reactions. Conclusions Probabilistic model checking can be used along with other well established approaches such as simulation and differential equations to better understand pump behavior. Using PMC we can determine if specific events happen such as the potassium outside the cell ends in all model traces. We can also have a more detailed perspective on its behavior such as determining its reversibility and why its normal operation becomes slow over time. This knowledge can be used to direct experimental research and make it more efficient, leading to faster and more accurate scientific discoveries. PMID:22369714

The Frequency and Functions of "Just" in British Academic Spoken English

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grant, Lynn E.

2011-01-01

This study investigates the frequency and functions of "just" in British academic spoken English. It adopts the meanings of "just" established by Lindemann and Mauranen, 2001, taken from the occurrences of "just" across five speech events in the Michigan Corpus of Academic Spoken English (MICASE) to see if they also apply to occurrences of "just"…

The occurrence of double strand DNA breaks is not the sole condition for meiotic crossing over in Drosophila melanogaster.

PubMed

Portin, P; Rantanen, M

2000-01-01

Analysis of the interchromosomal effects of In(2L + 2R)Cy, In(3L + 3R)LVM and their joint effect on the frequencies of single and double crossovers in the cv-v-f region of the X chromosome as well as interference showed that both inversions, occurring separately, increased the frequency of single as well as double crossovers and the coefficient of coincidence. However, when the inversions occurred together the frequencies of single crossovers no longer increased, but the frequency of double crossovers, as well as the coefficient of coincidence did increase. These results indicate firstly that the interchromosomal effects influence some precondition of exchange, but that this precondition is not an occurrence of double strand DNA breaks. Thus, the occurrence of double strand DNA breaks is not the sole condition for crossing over in Drosophila melanogaster.

REVIEW-ARTICLE Intermediate alleles of Huntington's disease HTT gene in different populations worldwide: a systematic review.

PubMed

Apolinário, T A; Paiva, C L A; Agostinho, L A

2017-04-05

Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by a dynamic mutation due to the expansion of CAG repeats in the HTT gene (4p16.3). The considered normal alleles have less than 27 CAG repeats. Intermediate alleles (IAs) show 27 to 35 CAG repeats and expanded alleles have more than 35 repeats. The IAs apparently have shown a normal phenotype. However, there are some reported associations between individuals that bear an IA and clinical HD signs, such as behavioral disturbs. The association of IAs with the presence of clinical signs gives clinical relevance to these patients. We emphasized the importance of determining the frequency of IA alleles in the general population as well as in HD families. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review, in order to investigate the frequency of IAs in the overall chromosomes of different ethnic groups and of families with HD history worldwide as well as the frequency of individuals who bear the intermediate alleles. We searched indexed articles from the following electronic databases: U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health (PubMed), Pubmed Central (PMC) and Virtual Health Library (VHL). Therefore, 488 articles were obtained and, of these, 33 had been published in more than one database. We accepted the article of only one database and ended up with 455 articles for this review. The frequency of IAs within the chromosomes of the general population ranged from 0.45 to 8.7% and of individuals with family history of HD ranged from 0.05 to 5.1%. The higher frequency of IAs in the general population (8.7%) was found in one Brazilian cohort.

Causal Role of Motor Simulation in Turn-Taking Behavior.

PubMed

Hadley, Lauren V; Novembre, Giacomo; Keller, Peter E; Pickering, Martin J

2015-12-16

Overlap between sensory and motor representations has been documented for a range of human actions, from grasping (Rizzolatti et al., 1996b) to playing a musical instrument (Novembre and Keller, 2014). Such overlap suggests that individuals use motor simulation to predict the outcome of observed actions (Wolpert, 1997). Here we investigate motor simulation as a basis of human communication. Using a musical turn-taking task, we show that pianists call on motor representations of their partner's part to predict when to come in for their own turn. Pianists played alternating solos with a videoed partner, and double-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was applied around the turn-switch to temporarily disrupt processing in two cortical regions implicated previously in different forms of motor simulation: (1) the dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC), associated with automatic motor resonance during passive observation of hand actions, especially when the actions are familiar (Lahav et al., 2007); and (2) the supplementary motor area (SMA), involved in active motor imagery, especially when the actions are familiar (Baumann et al., 2007). Stimulation of the right dPMC decreased the temporal accuracy of pianists' (right-hand) entries relative to sham when the partner's (left-hand) part had been rehearsed previously. This effect did not occur for dPMC stimulation without rehearsal or for SMA stimulation. These findings support the role of the dPMC in predicting the time course of observed actions via resonance-based motor simulation during turn-taking. Because turn-taking spans multiple modes of human interaction, we suggest that simulation is a foundational mechanism underlying the temporal dynamics of joint action. Even during passive observation, seeing or hearing somebody execute an action from within our repertoire activates motor cortices of our brain. But what is the functional relevance of such "motor simulation"? By combining a musical duet task with a real-time repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation protocol, we provide evidence indicating that the dorsal premotor cortex plays a causal role in accurate turn-taking coordination between a pianist and their observed interaction partner. Given that turn-taking behavior is a fundamental feature of human communication, we suggest that simulation is a foundational mechanism underlying the temporal dynamics of communicative joint action. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/3516516-05$15.00/0.

Associations with Unprotected Sexual Behavior Among HIV-Infected Drinkers in Western Kenya.

PubMed

Papas, Rebecca K; Gakinya, Benson N; Mwaniki, Michael M; Wu, Xiaotian K; Lee, Hana; Martino, Steve; Klein, Debra A; Sidle, John E; Loxley, Michelle P; Keter, Alfred K; Baliddawa, Joyce B; Maisto, Stephen A

2018-05-16

Approximately 71% of HIV-infected individuals live in sub-Saharan Africa. Alcohol use increases unprotected sex, which can lead to HIV transmission. Little research examines risky sex among HIV-infected individuals in East Africa who are not sex workers. The study purpose was to examine associations with unprotected sex in a high-risk sample of 507 HIV-infected sexually active drinkers in western Kenya. They were enrolled in a trial to reduce alcohol use. Past-month baseline alcohol use and sexual behavior were assessed using the Timeline Followback. A zero-inflated negative binomial model examined associations with occurrence and frequency of unprotected sex. Results showed heavy drinking days were significantly associated with unprotected sex occurrence across gender, and with unprotected sex frequency among women. Among women, transactional sex, alcohol-related sexual expectations, condom use self-efficacy, drinking-and-protected-sex days and age were associated with unprotected sex occurrence while alcohol-related sexual expectations, depressive symptoms and condom use self-efficacy were associated with unprotected sex frequency. Among men, alcohol-related sexual expectations, condom use self-efficacy, and age were associated with unprotected sex occurrence, while drinking-and-protected-sex days were associated with unprotected sex occurrence and frequency. Findings suggest robust relationships between heavy drinking and unprotected sex. Further research is needed elucidating the temporal relationships between drinking and unprotected sex in this population.

Second Language Vocabulary Learning through Extensive Reading with Audio Support: How Do Frequency and Distribution of Occurrence Affect Learning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webb, Stuart; Chang, Anna C-S.

2015-01-01

This study investigated (1) the extent of vocabulary learning through reading and listening to 10 graded readers, and (2) the relationship between vocabulary gain and the frequency and distribution of occurrence of 100 target words in the graded readers. The experimental design expanded on earlier studies that have typically examined incidental…

75 FR 80885 - Fifteenth Meeting: EUROCAE WG-72: RTCA Special Committee 216: Aeronautical Systems Security...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-23

..., Boeing Commercial Airplane Group. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: RTCA Secretariat, 1828 L Street, NW..., 2010 (RTCA Paper No. 250-10/SC216-031). Report on the PMC/ICC action on SC 216 TOR. Publication...

Sintering of catalytic nanoparticles: particle migration or Ostwald ripening?

PubMed

Hansen, Thomas W; Delariva, Andrew T; Challa, Sivakumar R; Datye, Abhaya K

2013-08-20

Metal nanoparticles contain the active sites in heterogeneous catalysts, which are important for many industrial applications including the production of clean fuels, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, and the cleanup of exhaust from automobiles and stationary power plants. Sintering, or thermal deactivation, is an important mechanism for the loss of catalyst activity. This is especially true for high temperature catalytic processes, such as steam reforming, automotive exhaust treatment, or catalytic combustion. With dwindling supplies of precious metals and increasing demand, fundamental understanding of catalyst sintering is very important for achieving clean energy and a clean environment, and for efficient chemical conversion processes with atom selectivity. Scientists have proposed two mechanisms for sintering of nanoparticles: particle migration and coalescence (PMC) and Ostwald ripening (OR). PMC involves the mobility of particles in a Brownian-like motion on the support surface, with subsequent coalescence leading to nanoparticle growth. In contrast, OR involves the migration of adatoms or mobile molecular species, driven by differences in free energy and local adatom concentrations on the support surface. In this Account, we divide the process of sintering into three phases. Phase I involves rapid loss in catalyst activity (or surface area), phase II is where sintering slows down, and phase III is where the catalyst may reach a stable performance. Much of the previous work is based on inferences from catalysts that were observed before and after long term treatments. While the general phenomena can be captured correctly, the mechanisms cannot be determined. Advancements in the techniques of in situ TEM allow us to observe catalysts at elevated temperatures under working conditions. We review recent evidence obtained via in situ methods to determine the relative importance of PMC and OR in each of these phases of catalyst sintering. The evidence suggests that, in phase I, OR is responsible for the rapid loss of activity that occurs when particles are very small. Surprisingly, very little PMC is observed in this phase. Instead, the rapid loss of activity is caused by the disappearance of the smallest particles. These findings are in good agreement with representative atomistic simulations of sintering. In phase II, sintering slows down since the smallest particles have disappeared. We now see a combination of PMC and OR, but do not fully understand the relative contribution of each of these processes to the overall rates of sintering. In phase III, the particles have grown large and other parasitic phenomena, such as support restructuring, can become important, especially at high temperatures. Examining the evolution of particle size and surface area with time, we do not see a stable or equilibrium state, especially for catalysts operating at elevated temperatures. In conclusion, the recent literature, especially on in situ studies, shows that OR is the dominant process causing the growth of nanoparticle size. Consequently, this leads to the loss of surface area and activity. While particle migration could be controlled through suitable structuring of catalyst supports, it is more difficult to control the mobility of atomically dispersed species. These insights into the mechanisms of sintering could help to develop sinter-resistant catalysts, with the ultimate goal of designing catalysts that are self-healing.

76 FR 22162 - Sixteenth Meeting: EUROCAE WG-72: RTCA Special Committee 216: Aeronautical Systems Security...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-20

... meeting held January 18-21, 2011. Report on the PMC/ICC Action on TOR. RTCA Specific Publication Progress... Advisory Committee. [FR Doc. 2011-9489 Filed 4-19-11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P ...

Three Mississippi ecotypes of wetland plants

Treesearch

Janet M. Grabowski

2000-01-01

In 1996, the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Jamie L. Whitten Plant Materials Center (PMC) released three locally collected, source-identified wetland plants. Indian Bayou source powdery thalia (Thalia dealbata Fraser ex Roscoe) and Leflore source creeping burhead [Echinodorus cordifolius (L.) Griseb.] were...

A Ground Observation Based Climatology and Forecasting of Winter Fog: Study over Ghaziabad, National Capital Region, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, S. K., Sr.; Sharma, D. A.; Sachdeva, K.

2015-12-01

Long term ground observations (1971-2010) have been analyzed over Ghaziabad city, National Capital Region to understand the characteristics of fog phenomenon and its relevance during winter months. We observed mean maximum fog occurrence during December (~23 days) followed by January (~21 days), November (~20 days), February (~14 days) and October (~11 days) respectively. A remarkable increase has been noticed in fog occurrence during October-to-February in last four decades. During 1971-80 to 2001-2010 the mean frequency of fog occurrence had increased by 205.5% in October month and 50.2% in November month. Similarly, mean frequency of fog occurrence increased by 51%, 97% and 119% during December, January and February respectively over the same period. We observed statistically significant increasing trend in fog occurrence from October-to-February during the study period at 95% confidence level. The magnitude of trend is 0.50, 0.47, 0.30, 0.39 and 0.37 for October, November, December, January and February, respectively. The magnitude of trend is highest in October but the occurrence frequency is highest in December. The forecast values obtained from ARIMA model indicates that the number of fog days is going to increase further during October-to-February in the forthcoming years. The data combined with knowledge of meteorology and topography suggested significant conclusions about increase in the fog events in the near future.

Respiratory motion correction in 4D-PET by simultaneous motion estimation and image reconstruction (SMEIR)

PubMed Central

Kalantari, Faraz; Li, Tianfang; Jin, Mingwu; Wang, Jing

2016-01-01

In conventional 4D positron emission tomography (4D-PET), images from different frames are reconstructed individually and aligned by registration methods. Two issues that arise with this approach are as follows: 1) the reconstruction algorithms do not make full use of projection statistics; and 2) the registration between noisy images can result in poor alignment. In this study, we investigated the use of simultaneous motion estimation and image reconstruction (SMEIR) methods for motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET. A modified ordered-subset expectation maximization algorithm coupled with total variation minimization (OSEM-TV) was used to obtain a primary motion-compensated PET (pmc-PET) from all projection data, using Demons derived deformation vector fields (DVFs) as initial motion vectors. A motion model update was performed to obtain an optimal set of DVFs in the pmc-PET and other phases, by matching the forward projection of the deformed pmc-PET with measured projections from other phases. The OSEM-TV image reconstruction was repeated using updated DVFs, and new DVFs were estimated based on updated images. A 4D-XCAT phantom with typical FDG biodistribution was generated to evaluate the performance of the SMEIR algorithm in lung and liver tumors with different contrasts and different diameters (10 to 40 mm). The image quality of the 4D-PET was greatly improved by the SMEIR algorithm. When all projections were used to reconstruct 3D-PET without motion compensation, motion blurring artifacts were present, leading up to 150% tumor size overestimation and significant quantitative errors, including 50% underestimation of tumor contrast and 59% underestimation of tumor uptake. Errors were reduced to less than 10% in most images by using the SMEIR algorithm, showing its potential in motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET. PMID:27385378

Aerosol Correction for Improving OMPS/LP Ozone Retrieval

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Zhong; Bhartia, Pawan K.; Loughman, Robert

2015-01-01

The Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite Limb Profiler (OMPS-LP) on board the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (SNPP) satellite was launched on Oct. 28, 2011. Limb profilers measures the radiance scattered from the Earth's atmospheric in limb viewing mode from 290 to 1000 nm and infer ozone profiles from tropopause to 60 km. The recently released OMPS-LP Version 2 data product contains the first publicly released ozone profiles retrievals, and these are now available for the entire OMPS mission, which extends from April, 2012. The Version 2 data product retrievals incorporate several important improvements to the algorithm. One of the primary changes is to turn off the aerosol retrieval module. The aerosol profiles retrieved inside the ozone code was not helping the ozone retrieval and was adding noise and other artifacts. Aerosols including polar stratospheric cloud (PSC) and polar mesospheric clouds (PMC) have a detectable effect on OMPS-LP data. Our results show that ignoring the aerosol contribution would produce an ozone density bias of up to 10 percent in the region of maximum aerosol extinction. Therefore, aerosol correction is needed to improve the quality of the retrieved ozone concentration profile. We provide Aerosol Scattering Index (ASI) for detecting aerosols-PMC-PSC, defined as ln(Im-Ic) normalized at 45km, where Im is the measured radiance and Ic is the calculated radiance assuming no aerosols. Since ASI varies with wavelengths, latitude and altitude, we can start by assuming no aerosol profiles in calculating the ASIs and then use the aerosol profile to see if it significantly reduces the residuals. We also discuss the effect of aerosol size distribution on the ozone profile retrieval process. Finally, we present an aerosol-PMC-PSC correction scheme.

Durability Characterization of Advanced Polymeric Composites at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gates, T. S.

2001-01-01

The next generation of reusable launch vehicles will require technology development in several key areas. Of these key areas, the development of polymeric composite cryogenic fuel tanks promises to present one of the most difficult technical challenges. It is envisioned that a polymer matrix composite (PMC) tank would be a large shell structure capable of containing cryogenic fuels and carrying a range of structural loads. The criteria that will be imposed on such a design include reduced weight, conformal geometry, and impermeability. It is this last criterion, impermeability, that will provide the focus of this paper. The essence of the impermeability criterion is that the tank remains leak free throughout its design lifetime. To address this criterion, one of the first steps is to conduct a complete durability assessment of the PMC materials. At Langley Research Center, a durability assessment of promising new polyimide-based PMCs is underway. This durability program has focused on designing a set of critical laboratory experiments that will determine fundamental material properties under combined thermal-mechanical loading at cryogenic temperatures. The test program provides measurements of lamina and laminate properties, including strength, stiffness, and fracture toughness. The performance of the PMC materials is monitored as a function of exposure conditions and aging time. Residual properties after exposure are measured at cryogenic temperatures and provide quantitative values of residual strength and stiffness. Primary degradation mechanisms and the associated damage modes are measured with both destructive and nondestructive techniques. In addition to mechanical properties, a range of physical properties, such as weight, glass transition, and crack density, are measured and correlated with the test conditions. This paper will report on the progress of this research program and present critical results and illustrative examples of current findings.

Respiratory motion correction in 4D-PET by simultaneous motion estimation and image reconstruction (SMEIR)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalantari, Faraz; Li, Tianfang; Jin, Mingwu; Wang, Jing

2016-08-01

In conventional 4D positron emission tomography (4D-PET), images from different frames are reconstructed individually and aligned by registration methods. Two issues that arise with this approach are as follows: (1) the reconstruction algorithms do not make full use of projection statistics; and (2) the registration between noisy images can result in poor alignment. In this study, we investigated the use of simultaneous motion estimation and image reconstruction (SMEIR) methods for motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET. A modified ordered-subset expectation maximization algorithm coupled with total variation minimization (OSEM-TV) was used to obtain a primary motion-compensated PET (pmc-PET) from all projection data, using Demons derived deformation vector fields (DVFs) as initial motion vectors. A motion model update was performed to obtain an optimal set of DVFs in the pmc-PET and other phases, by matching the forward projection of the deformed pmc-PET with measured projections from other phases. The OSEM-TV image reconstruction was repeated using updated DVFs, and new DVFs were estimated based on updated images. A 4D-XCAT phantom with typical FDG biodistribution was generated to evaluate the performance of the SMEIR algorithm in lung and liver tumors with different contrasts and different diameters (10-40 mm). The image quality of the 4D-PET was greatly improved by the SMEIR algorithm. When all projections were used to reconstruct 3D-PET without motion compensation, motion blurring artifacts were present, leading up to 150% tumor size overestimation and significant quantitative errors, including 50% underestimation of tumor contrast and 59% underestimation of tumor uptake. Errors were reduced to less than 10% in most images by using the SMEIR algorithm, showing its potential in motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET.

Isotope hydrology of deep groundwater in Syria: renewable and non-renewable groundwater and paleoclimate impact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Charideh, A.; Kattaa, B.

2016-02-01

The Regional Deep Cretaceous Aquifer (RDCA) is the principal groundwater resource in Syria. Isotope and hydrochemical data have been used to evaluate the geographic zones in terms of renewable and non-renewable groundwater and the inter-relation between current and past recharge. The chemical and isotopic character of groundwater together with radiometric 14C data reflect the existence of three different groundwater groups: (1) renewable groundwater, in RDCA outcropping areas, in western Syria along the Coastal and Anti-Lebanon mountains. The mean δ18O value (-7.2 ‰) is similar to modern precipitation with higher 14C values (up to 60-80 pmc), implying younger groundwater (recent recharge); (2) semi-renewable groundwater, which is located in the unconfined section of the RDCA and parallel to the first zone. The mean δ18O value (-7.0 ‰) is also similar to modern precipitation with a 14C range of 15-45 pmc; (3) non-renewable groundwater found in most of the Syrian interior, where the RDCA becomes confined. A considerable depletion in δ18O (-8.0 ‰) relative to the modern rainfall and low values of 14C (<15 pmc) suggest that the large masses of deep groundwater are non-renewable and related to an older recharge period. The wide scatter of all data points around the two meteoric lines in the δ18O-δ2H diagram indicates considerable variation in recharge conditions. There is limited renewable groundwater in the mountain area, and most of the stored deep groundwater in the RDCA is non-renewable, with corrected 14C ages varying between 10 and 35 Kyr BP.

The Personalized Medicine Coalition: goals and strategies.

PubMed

Abrahams, Edward; Ginsburg, Geoffrey S; Silver, Mike

2005-01-01

The concept of personalized medicine--that medical care can be tailored to the genomic and molecular profile of the individual--has repercussions that extend far beyond the technology that makes it possible. The adoption of personalized medicine will require changes in healthcare infrastructure, diagnostics and therapeutics business models, reimbursement policy from government and private payers, and a different approach to regulatory oversight. Personalized medicine will shift medical practices upstream from the reactive treatment of disease, to proactive healthcare management including screening, early treatment, and prevention, and will alter the roles of both physician and patient. It will create a greater reliance on electronic medical records and decision support systems in an industry that has a long history of resistance to information technology. Personalized medicine requires a systems approach to implementation. But in a healthcare economy that is highly decentralized and market driven, it is incumbent upon the stakeholders themselves to advocate for a consistent set of policies and legislation that pave the way for the adoption of personalized medicine. To address this need, the Personalized Medicine Coalition (PMC) was formed as a nonprofit umbrella organization of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostic, and information technology companies, healthcare providers and payers, patient advocacy groups, industry policy organizations, major academic institutions, and government agencies. The PMC provides a structure for achieving consensus positions among these stakeholders on crucial public policy issues, a role which will be vital to translating personalized medicine into widespread clinical practice. In this article, we outline the goals of the PMC, and the strategies it will take to foster communication, debate, and consensus on issues such as genetic discrimination, the reimbursement structures for pharmacogenomic drugs and diagnostics, regulation, physician training and medical school curricula, and public education.

Does posteromedial chondromalacia reduce rate of return to play after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction?

PubMed

Osbahr, Daryl C; Dines, Joshua S; Rosenbaum, Andrew J; Nguyen, Joseph T; Altchek, David W

2012-06-01

Biomechanical studies suggest ulnohumeral chondral and ligamentous overload (UCLO) explains the development of posteromedial chondromalacia (PMC) in throwing athletes with ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) insufficiency. UCL reconstruction reportedly allows 90% of baseball players to return to prior or a higher level of play; however, players with concomitant posteromedial chondromalacia may experience lower rates of return to play. The purpose of this investigation is to determine: (1) the rates of return to play of baseball players undergoing UCL reconstruction and posteromedial chondromalacia; and (2) the complications occurring after UCL reconstruction in the setting of posteromedial chondromalacia. We retrospectively reviewed 29 of 161 (18%) baseball players who were treated for the combined posteromedial chondromalacia and UCL injury. UCL reconstruction was accomplished with the docking technique, and the PMC was addressed with nothing or débridement if Grade 2 or 3 and with débridement or microfracture if Grade 4. The mean age was 19.6 years (range, 16-23 years). Most players were college athletes (76%) and pitchers (93%). We used a modified four-level scale of Conway et al. to assess return to play with 1 being the highest level (return to preinjury level of competition or performance for at least one season after UCL reconstruction). The minimum followup was 24 months (mean, 37 months; range, 24-52 months). Return to play was Level 1 in 22 patients (76%), Level 2 in four patients (14%), Level 3 in two patients (7%), and Level 4 in one (3%) patient. Our data suggest baseball players with concomitant PMC, may have lower rates of return to the same or a higher level of play compared with historical controls. Level IV, case series. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Daily iTBS worsens hand motor training--a combined TMS, fMRI and mirror training study.

PubMed

Läppchen, C H; Ringer, T; Blessin, J; Schulz, K; Seidel, G; Lange, R; Hamzei, F

2015-02-15

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is used to increase regional excitability to improve motor function in combination with training after neurological diseases or events such as stroke. We investigated whether a daily application of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS; a short-duration rTMS that increases regional excitability) improves the training effect compared with sham stimulation in association with a four-day hand training program using a mirror (mirror training, MT). The right dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC right) was chosen as the target region for iTBS because this region has recently been emphasized as a node within a network related to MT. Healthy subjects were randomized into the iTBS group or sham group (control group CG). In the iTBS group, iTBS was applied daily over dPMC right, which was functionally determined in an initial fMRI session prior to starting MT. MT involved 20 min of hand training daily in a mirror over four days. The hand tests, the intracortical excitability and fMRI were evaluated prior to and at the end of MT. The results of the hand training tests of the iTBS group were surprisingly significantly poorer compared with those from the CG group. Both groups showed a different course of excitability in both M1 and a different course of fMRI activation within the supplementary motor area and M1 left. We suggest the inter-regional functional balance was affected by daily iTBS over dPMC right. Maybe an inter-regional connectivity within a network is differentially balanced. An excitability increase within an inhibitory-balanced network would therefore disturb the underlying network. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Large ice particles associated with small ice water content observed by AIM CIPS imagery of polar mesospheric clouds: Evidence for microphysical coupling with small-scale dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rusch, D.; Thomas, G.; Merkel, A.; Olivero, J.; Chandran, A.; Lumpe, J.; Carstans, J.; Randall, C.; Bailey, S.; Russell, J.

2017-09-01

Observations by the Cloud Imaging and Particle Size (CIPS) instrument on the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) satellite have demonstrated the existence of Polar Mesospheric Cloud (PMC) regions populated by particles whose mean sizes range between 60 and 100 nm (radii of equivalent volume spheres). It is known from numerous satellite experiments that typical mean PMC particle sizes are of the order of 40-50 nm. Determination of particle size by CIPS is accomplished by measuring the scattering of solar radiation at various scattering angles at a spatial resolution of 25 km2. In this size range we find a robust anti-correlation between mean particle size and albedo. These very-large particle-low-ice (VLP-LI) clouds occur over spatially coherent areas. The surprising result is that VLP-LI are frequently present either in the troughs of gravity wave-like features or at the edges of PMC voids. We postulate that an association with gravity waves exists in the low-temperature summertime mesopause region, and illustrate the mechanism by a gravity wave simulation through use of the 2D Community Aerosol and Radiation Model for Atmospheres (CARMA). The model results are consistent with a VLP-LI population in the cold troughs of monochromatic gravity waves. In addition, we find such events in Whole Earth Community Climate Model/CARMA simulations, suggesting the possible importance of sporadic downward winds in heating the upper cloud regions. This newly-discovered association enhances our understanding of the interaction of ice microphysics with dynamical processes in the upper mesosphere.

Cloning of three genes involved in the flavonoid metabolic pathway and their expression during insect resistance in Pinus massoniana Lamb.

PubMed

Yang, Z Q; Chen, H; Tan, J H; Xu, H L; Jia, J; Feng, Y H

2016-12-23

Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an important timber and turpentine-producing tree species in China. Dendrolimus punctatus and Dasychira axutha are leaf-eating pests that have harmful effects on P. massoniana production. Few studies have focused on the molecular mechanisms underlying pest resistance in P. massoniana. Based on sequencing analysis of the transcriptomes of insect-resistant P. massoniana, three key genes involved in the flavonoid metabolic pathway were identified in the present study (PmF3H, PmF3'5'H, and PmC4H). Structural domain analysis showed that the PmF3H gene contains typical binding sites for the 2OG-Fe (II) oxygenase superfamily, while PmF3'5'H and PmC4H both contain the cytochrome P450 structural domain, which is specific for P450 enzymes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that each of the three P. massoniana genes, and the homologous genes in gymnosperms, clustered into a group. Expression of these three genes was highest in the stems, and was higher in the insect-resistant P. massoniana varieties than in the controls. The extent of the increased expression in the insect-resistant P. massoniana varieties indicated that these three genes are involved in defense mechanisms against pests in this species. In the insect-resistant varieties, rapid induction of PmF3H increased the levels of PmF3'5'H and PmC4H expression. The enhanced anti-pest capability of the insect-resistant varieties could be related to temperature and humidity. In addition, these results suggest that these three genes maycontribute to the change in flower color during female cone development.

PNT1 is a C11 cysteine peptidase essential for replication of the Trypanosome Kinetoplast

DOE PAGES

Grewal, Jaspreet S.; McLuskey, Karen; Das, Debanu; ...

2016-03-03

The structure of a C11 peptidase PmC11 from the gut bacterium, Parabacteroides merdae, has recently been determined, enabling the identification and characterization of a C11 orthologue, PNT1, in the parasitic protozoon Trypanosoma brucei. A phylogenetic analysis identified PmC11 orthologues in bacteria, archaea, Chromerids, Coccidia, and Kinetoplastida, the latter being the most divergent. A primary sequence alignment of PNT1 with clostripain and PmC11 revealed the position of the characteristic His-Cys catalytic dyad (His 99 and Cys 136), and an Asp (Asp 134) in the potential S 1 binding site. Immunofluorescence and cryoelectron microscopy revealed that PNT1 localizes to the kinetoplast, anmore » organelle containing the mitochondrial genome of the parasite (kDNA), with an accumulation of the protein at or near the antipodal sites. Depletion of PNT1 by RNAi in the T. brucei bloodstream form was lethal both in in vitro culture and in vivo in mice and the induced population accumulated cells lacking a kinetoplast. In contrast, overexpression of PNT1 led to cells having mislocated kinetoplasts. RNAi depletion of PNT1 in a kDNA independent cell line resulted in kinetoplast loss but was viable, indicating that PNT1 is required exclusively for kinetoplast maintenance. Expression of a recoded wild-type PNT1 allele, but not of an active site mutant restored parasite viability after induction in vitro and in vivo confirming that the peptidase activity of PNT1 is essential for parasite survival. Furthermore, these data provide evidence that PNT1 is a cysteine peptidase that is required exclusively for maintenance of the trypanosome kinetoplast.« less

Melodic Priming of Motor Sequence Performance: The Role of the Dorsal Premotor Cortex.

PubMed

Stephan, Marianne A; Brown, Rachel; Lega, Carlotta; Penhune, Virginia

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether exposure to specific auditory sequences leads to the induction of new motor memories and to investigate the role of the dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC) in this crossmodal learning process. Fifty-two young healthy non-musicians were familiarized with the sound to key-press mapping on a computer keyboard and tested on their baseline motor performance. Each participant received subsequently either continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) or sham stimulation over the dPMC and was then asked to remember a 12-note melody without moving. For half of the participants, the contour of the melody memorized was congruent to a subsequently performed, but never practiced, finger movement sequence (Congruent group). For the other half, the melody memorized was incongruent to the subsequent finger movement sequence (Incongruent group). Hearing a congruent melody led to significantly faster performance of a motor sequence immediately thereafter compared to hearing an incongruent melody. In addition, cTBS speeded up motor performance in both groups, possibly by relieving motor consolidation from interference by the declarative melody memorization task. Our findings substantiate recent evidence that exposure to a movement-related tone sequence can induce specific, crossmodal encoding of a movement sequence representation. They further suggest that cTBS over the dPMC may enhance early offline procedural motor skill consolidation in cognitive states where motor consolidation would normally be disturbed by concurrent declarative memory processes. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of auditory-motor system interactions and have implications for the development of new motor rehabilitation approaches using sound and non-invasive brain stimulation as neuromodulatory tools.

A General Method for Selection of α-Acetolactate Decarboxylase-Deficient Lactococcus lactis Mutants To Improve Diacetyl Formation

PubMed Central

Curic, Mirjana; Stuer-Lauridsen, Birgitte; Renault, Pierre; Nilsson, Dan

1999-01-01

The enzyme acetolactate decarboxylase (Ald) plays a key role in the regulation of the α-acetolactate pool in both pyruvate catabolism and the biosynthesis of the branched-chain amino acids, isoleucine, leucine, and valine (ILV). This dual role of Ald, due to allosteric activation by leucine, was used as a strategy for the isolation of Ald-deficient mutants of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis biovar diacetylactis. Such mutants can be selected as leucine-resistant mutants in ILV- or IV-prototrophic strains. Most dairy lactococcus strains are auxotrophic for the three amino acids. Therefore, the plasmid pMC004 containing the ilv genes (encoding the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of IV) of L. lactis NCDO2118 was constructed. Introduction of pMC004 into ILV-auxotrophic dairy strains resulted in an isoleucine-prototrophic phenotype. By plating the strains on a chemically defined medium supplemented with leucine but not valine and isoleucine, spontaneous leucine-resistant mutants were obtained. These mutants were screened by Western blotting with Ald-specific antibodies for the presence of Ald. Selected mutants lacking Ald were subsequently cured of pMC004. Except for a defect in the expression of Ald, the resulting strain, MC010, was identical to the wild-type strain, as shown by Southern blotting and DNA fingerprinting. The mutation resulting in the lack of Ald in MC010 occurred spontaneously, and the strain does not contain foreign DNA; thus, it can be regarded as food grade. Nevertheless, its application in dairy products depends on the regulation of genetically modified organisms. These results establish a strategy to select spontaneous Ald-deficient mutants from transformable L. lactis strains. PMID:10049884

Evaluation of machinability and flexural strength of a novel dental machinable glass-ceramic.

PubMed

Qin, Feng; Zheng, Shucan; Luo, Zufeng; Li, Yong; Guo, Ling; Zhao, Yunfeng; Fu, Qiang

2009-10-01

To evaluate the machinability and flexural strength of a novel dental machinable glass-ceramic (named PMC), and to compare the machinability property with that of Vita Mark II and human enamel. The raw batch materials were selected and mixed. Four groups of novel glass-ceramics were formed at different nucleation temperatures, and were assigned to Group 1, Group 2, Group 3 and Group 4. The machinability of the four groups of novel glass-ceramics, Vita Mark II ceramic and freshly extracted human premolars were compared by means of drilling depth measurement. A three-point bending test was used to measure the flexural strength of the novel glass-ceramics. The crystalline phases of the group with the best machinability were identified by X-ray diffraction. In terms of the drilling depth, Group 2 of the novel glass-ceramics proves to have the largest drilling depth. There was no statistical difference among Group 1, Group 4 and the natural teeth. The drilling depth of Vita MK II was statistically less than that of Group 1, Group 4 and the natural teeth. Group 3 had the least drilling depth. In respect of the flexural strength, Group 2 exhibited the maximum flexural strength; Group 1 was statistically weaker than Group 2; there was no statistical difference between Group 3 and Group 4, and they were the weakest materials. XRD of Group 2 ceramic showed that a new type of dental machinable glass-ceramic containing calcium-mica had been developed by the present study and was named PMC. PMC is promising for application as a dental machinable ceramic due to its good machinability and relatively high strength.

Whirlin Replacement Restores the Formation of the USH2 Protein Complex in Whirlin Knockout Photoreceptors

PubMed Central

Zou, Junhuang; Luo, Ling; Shen, Zuolian; Chiodo, Vince A.; Ambati, Balamurali K.; Hauswirth, William W.

2011-01-01

Purpose. Whirlin is the causative gene for Usher syndrome type IID (USH2D), a condition manifested as both retinitis pigmentosa and congenital deafness. Mutations in this gene cause disruption of the USH2 protein complex composed of USH2A and VLGR1 at the periciliary membrane complex (PMC) in photoreceptors. In this study, the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated whirlin replacement was evaluated as a treatment option. Methods. Murine whirlin cDNA driven by the human rhodopsin kinase promoter (hRK) was packaged as an AAV2/5 vector and delivered into the whirlin knockout retina through subretinal injection. The efficiency, efficacy, and safety of this treatment were examined using immunofluorescent staining, confocal imaging, immunoelectron microscopy, Western blot analysis, histologic analysis, and electroretinogram. Results. The AAV-mediated whirlin expression started at two weeks, reached its maximum level at 10 weeks, and lasted up to six months post injection. The transgenic whirlin product had a molecular size and an expression level comparable to the wild-type. It was distributed at the PMC in both rod and cone photoreceptors from the central to peripheral retina. Importantly, the transgenic whirlin restored the cellular localization and expression level of both USH2A and VLGR1 and did not cause defects in the retinal histology and function in the whirlin knockout mouse. Conclusions. Whirlin transgene recruits USH2A and VLGR1 to the PMC and is sufficient for the formation of the USH2 protein complex in photoreceptors. The combined hRK and AAV gene delivery system could be an effective gene therapy approach to treat retinal degeneration in USH2D patients. PMID:21212183

Influence of vertically and obliquely propagating gravity waves on the polar summer mesosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thurairajah, B.; Siskind, D. E.; Bailey, S. M.

2017-12-01

Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMCs) are sensitive to changes in temperature of the cold polar summer mesosphere, which in turn are modulated by gravity waves (GWs). In this study we investigate the link between PMCs and GWs that propagate both vertically (i.e. wave propagation is directly above the source region) and obliquely (lateral or non-vertical propagation upward but away from the source region). Several observational studies have analyzed the link between PMCs and vertically propagating GWs and have reported both positive and negative correlations. Moreover, while modelling studies have noted the possibility of oblique propagation of GWs from the low-latitude stratosphere to the high-latitude mesosphere, observational studies of the influence of these waves on the polar summer mesosphere are sparse. We present a comprehensive analysis of the influence of vertically and obliquely propagating GWs on the northern hemisphere (NH) polar summer mesosphere using data from 8 PMC seasons. Temperature data from the SOFIE experiment on the AIM satellite and SABER instrument on the TIMED satellite are used to derive GW parameters. SOFIE PMC data in terms of Ice Water Content (IWC) are used to quantify the changes in the polar summer mesosphere. At high latitudes, preliminary analysis of vertically propagating waves indicate a weak but positive correlation between GWs at 50 km and GWs at the PMC altitude of 84 km. Overall there is a negative correlation between GWs at 50 km and IWC and a positive correlation between GWs at 84 km and IWC. These results and the presence of a slanted structure (slanted from the low-latitude stratosphere to the high-latitude mesosphere) in GW momentum flux suggest the possibility of a significant influence of obliquely propagating GWs on the polar summer mesosphere

Pursuing the flow of information: connectivity between bilateral premotor cortices predicts better accuracy in the phonological working memory task.

PubMed

Ono, Yumie; Nanjo, Tatsuya; Ishiyama, Atsushi

2013-01-01

Using Magnetoencephalography (MEG) we studied functional connectivity of cortical areas during phonological working memory task. Six subjects participated in the experiment and their neuronal activity was measured by a 306-channel MEG system. We used a modified version of the visual Sternberg paradigm, which required subjects to memorize 8 alphabet letters in 2s for a late recall period. We estimated functional connectivity of oscillatory regional brain activities during the encoding session for each trial of each subject using beamformer source reconstruction and Granger causality analysis. Regional brain activities were mostly found in the bilateral premotor cortex (Brodmann area (BA) 6: PMC), the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (BA 9: DLPFC), and the right frontal eye field (BA 8). Considering that the left and right PMCs participate in the functions of phonological loop (PL) and the visuospatial sketchpad (VS) in the Baddeley's model of working memory, respectively, our result suggests that subjects utilized either single function or both functions of working memory circuitry to execute the task. Interestingly, the accuracy of the task was significantly higher in the trials where the alpha band oscillatory activities in the bilateral PMCs established functional connectivity compared to those where the PMC was not working in conjunction with its counterpart. Similar relationship was found in the theta band oscillatory activities between the right PMC and the right DLPFC, however in this case the establishment of functional connectivity significantly decreased the accuracy of the task. These results suggest that sharing the memory load with both PL- and VS- type memory storage circuitries contributed to better performance in the highly-demanding cognitive task.

The Posterior Medial Cortex in Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Detachment from Default Mode Network. A Resting-State Study from the MAPP Research Network

PubMed Central

Martucci, Katherine T.; Shirer, William R.; Bagarinao, Epifanio; Johnson, Kevin A.; Farmer, Melissa A.; Labus, Jennifer S.; Apkarian, A. Vania; Deutsch, Georg; Harris, Richard E.; Mayer, Emeran A.; Clauw, Daniel J.; Greicius, Michael D.; Mackey, Sean C.

2015-01-01

Altered resting-state brain activity, as a measure of functional connectivity, is commonly observed in chronic pain. Identifying a reliable signature pattern of altered resting-state activity for chronic pain could provide strong mechanistic insights and serve as a highly beneficial neuroimaging-based diagnostic tool. We collected and analyzed resting-state fMRI data from female patients with urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS, N = 45) and matched healthy participants (N = 45) as part of a NIDDK funded multicenter project (www.mappnetwork.org). Using dual regression and seed-based analyses, we observed significantly decreased functional connectivity of the default mode network (DMN) to two regions in the posterior medial cortex (PMC): the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and left precuneus (TFCE, FWE corrected p<0.05). Further investigation revealed that patients demonstrated increased functional connectivity between the PCC and several brain regions implicated in pain, sensory, motor, and emotion regulation processes (e.g., insular cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, thalamus, globus pallidus, putamen, amygdala, hippocampus). The left precuneus demonstrated decreased functional connectivity to several regions of pain processing, reward, and higher executive functioning within the prefrontal (orbitofrontal, anterior cingulate, ventromedial prefrontal) and parietal cortices (angular gyrus, superior and inferior parietal lobules). The altered PMC connectivity was associated with several phenotype measures, including pain and urologic symptom intensity, depression, anxiety, quality of relationships and self-esteem levels in patients. Collectively, these findings indicate that in UCPPS patients, regions of the PMC are detached from the DMN, while neurological processes of self-referential thought and introspection may be joined to pain and emotion regulatory processes. PMID:26010458

Reconciling Ground-Based and Space-Based Estimates of the Frequency of Occurrence and Radiative Effect of Clouds around Darwin, Australia

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

Protat, Alain; Young, Stuart; McFarlane, Sally A.

2014-02-01

The objective of this paper is to investigate whether estimates of the cloud frequency of occurrence and associated cloud radiative forcing as derived from ground-based and satellite active remote sensing and radiative transfer calculations can be reconciled over a well instrumented active remote sensing site located in Darwin, Australia, despite the very different viewing geometry and instrument characteristics. It is found that the ground-based radar-lidar combination at Darwin does not detect most of the cirrus clouds above 10 km (due to limited lidar detection capability and signal obscuration by low-level clouds) and that the CloudSat radar - Cloud-Aerosol Lidar withmore » Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) combination underreports the hydrometeor frequency of occurrence below 2 km height, due to instrument limitations at these heights. The radiative impact associated with these differences in cloud frequency of occurrence is large on the surface downwelling shortwave fluxes (ground and satellite) and the top-of atmosphere upwelling shortwave and longwave fluxes (ground). Good agreement is found for other radiative fluxes. Large differences in radiative heating rate as derived from ground and satellite radar-lidar instruments and RT calculations are also found above 10 km (up to 0.35 Kday-1 for the shortwave and 0.8 Kday-1 for the longwave). Given that the ground-based and satellite estimates of cloud frequency of occurrence and radiative impact cannot be fully reconciled over Darwin, caution should be exercised when evaluating the representation of clouds and cloud-radiation interactions in large-scale models and limitations of each set of instrumentation should be considered when interpreting model-observations differences.« less

Flood Frequency Analyses Using a Modified Stochastic Storm Transposition Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, N. Z.; Kiani, M.

2015-12-01

Research shows that areas with similar topography and climatic environment have comparable precipitation occurrences. Reproduction and realization of historical rainfall events provide foundations for frequency analysis and the advancement of meteorological studies. Stochastic Storm Transposition (SST) is a method for such a purpose and enables us to perform hydrologic frequency analyses by transposing observed historical storm events to the sites of interest. However, many previous studies in SST reveal drawbacks from simplified Probability Density Functions (PDFs) without considering restrictions for transposing rainfalls. The goal of this study is to stochastically examine the impacts of extreme events on all locations in a homogeneity zone. Since storms with the same probability of occurrence on homogenous areas do not have the identical hydrologic impacts, the authors utilize detailed precipitation parameters including the probability of occurrence of certain depth and the number of occurrence of extreme events, which are both incorporated into a joint probability function. The new approach can reduce the bias from uniformly transposing storms which erroneously increases the probability of occurrence of storms in areas with higher rainfall depths. This procedure is iterated to simulate storm events for one thousand years as the basis for updating frequency analysis curves such as IDF and FFA. The study area is the Upper Trinity River watershed including the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex with a total area of 6,500 mi2. It is the first time that SST method is examined in such a wide scale with 20 years of radar rainfall data.

Frequencies of apolipoprotein E alleles in depressed patients undergoing hemodialysis--a case-control study.

PubMed

Su, Yan-yan; Zhang, Yun-fang; Yang, Shen; Wang, Jie-lin; Hua, Bao-jun; Luo, Jie; Wang, Qi; Zeng, De-wang; Lin, Yan-qun; Li, Hong-yan

2015-06-01

To explore the relation between the frequencies of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) alleles and the occurrence of depression in patients undergoing hemodialysis in a Chinese population. We examined the ApoE alleles in a sample of 288 subjects: 72 patients with depression under hemodialysis, 74 patients without depression under hemodialysis, 75 patients with depression under nondialytic treatment and 67 patients without depression under nondialytic treatment. The depression state was assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) scale. Associations between the occurrence of depression and the frequencies of ApoE alleles were examined using multinomial logistic regression models with adjustment of relevant covariates. Information about sociodemographics, clinical data, vascular risk factors and cognitive function was also collected and evaluated. The frequencies of ApoE-ɛ2 were significantly different between depressed and non-depressed patients irrespective of dialysis (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was found in the frequencies of ApoE-ɛ4 (p > 0.05). Serum ApoE levels were significantly different between depressed and non-depressed patients in the whole sample (p < 0.05). Multinomial logistic regression models showed significant association between the frequency of ApoE-ɛ2 and the occurrence of depression in the Chinese population after control of relevant covariates, including age, sex, educational level, history of smoking and drinking, vascular risk factors and cognitive function. No association between the frequency of ApoE-ɛ4 and the occurrence of depression was found in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Further research is needed to find out if ApoE-ɛ2 acts as a protective factor in Chinese dialysis population since it might decrease the prevalence of depression and delay the onset age.

75 FR 55847 - Fourteenth Meeting: EUROCAE WG-72: RTCA Special Committee 216: Aeronautical Systems Security...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-14

..., (RTCA Paper No. 137-10/SC216-029). Report on the PMC/ICC action on TOR: Publication Progress and Update... Advisory Committee. [FR Doc. 2010-22879 Filed 9-13-10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P ...

75 FR 20895 - Establishing the President's Management Advisory Board

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-22

... Order 13538 of April 19, 2010 Establishing the President's Management Advisory Board By the authority... Administration (GSA) the President's Management Advisory Board (PMAB). Sec. 2. Mission. (a) The PMAB shall provide the President and the President's Management Council (PMC) advice and recommendations on effective...

7 CFR 613.5 - PMCs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false PMCs. 613.5 Section 613.5 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE CONSERVATION OPERATIONS PLANT MATERIALS CENTERS § 613.5 PMCs. (a) The Norman A. Berg National PMC...

76 FR 56393 - Notice of Intent to Grant Exclusive License

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-13

... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Agricultural Research Service Notice of Intent to Grant Exclusive License AGENCY: Agricultural Research Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of intent. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, intends to grant to PMC...

Space Station evolution study oxygen loop closure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wood, M. G.; Delong, D.

1993-01-01

In the current Space Station Freedom (SSF) Permanently Manned Configuration (PMC), physical scars for closing the oxygen loop by the addition of oxygen generation and carbon dioxide reduction hardware are not included. During station restructuring, the capability for oxygen loop closure was deferred to the B-modules. As such, the ability to close the oxygen loop in the U.S. Laboratory module (LAB A) and the Habitation A module (HAB A) is contingent on the presence of the B modules. To base oxygen loop closure of SSF on the funding of the B-modules may not be desirable. Therefore, this study was requested to evaluate the necessary hooks and scars in the A-modules to facilitate closure of the oxygen loop at or subsequent to PMC. The study defines the scars for oxygen loop closure with impacts to cost, weight and volume and assesses the effects of byproduct venting. In addition, the recommended scenarios for closure with regard to topology and packaging are presented.

Computational modeling of stuttering caused by impairments in a basal ganglia thalamo-cortical circuit involved in syllable selection and initiation

PubMed Central

Civier, Oren; Bullock, Daniel; Max, Ludo; Guenther, Frank H.

2013-01-01

A typical white-matter integrity and elevated dopamine levels have been reported for individuals who stutter. We investigated how such abnormalities may lead to speech dysfluencies due to their effects on a syllable-sequencing circuit that consists of basal ganglia (BG), thalamus, and left ventral premotor cortex (vPMC). “Neurally impaired” versions of the neurocomputational speech production model GODIVA were utilized to test two hypotheses: (1) that white-matter abnormalities disturb the circuit via corticostriatal projections carrying copies of executed motor commands, and (2) that dopaminergic abnormalities disturb the circuit via the striatum. Simulation results support both hypotheses: in both scenarios, the neural abnormalities delay readout of the next syllable’s motor program, leading to dysfluency. The results also account for brain imaging findings during dysfluent speech. It is concluded that each of the two abnormality types can cause stuttering moments, probably by affecting the same BG-thalamus-vPMC circuit. PMID:23872286

SciLite: a platform for displaying text-mined annotations as a means to link research articles with biological data.

PubMed

Venkatesan, Aravind; Kim, Jee-Hyub; Talo, Francesco; Ide-Smith, Michele; Gobeill, Julien; Carter, Jacob; Batista-Navarro, Riza; Ananiadou, Sophia; Ruch, Patrick; McEntyre, Johanna

2016-01-01

The tremendous growth in biological data has resulted in an increase in the number of research papers being published. This presents a great challenge for scientists in searching and assimilating facts described in those papers. Particularly, biological databases depend on curators to add highly precise and useful information that are usually extracted by reading research articles. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find ways to improve linking literature to the underlying data, thereby minimising the effort in browsing content and identifying key biological concepts.   As part of the development of Europe PMC, we have developed a new platform, SciLite, which integrates text-mined annotations from different sources and overlays those outputs on research articles. The aim is to aid researchers and curators using Europe PMC in finding key concepts more easily and provide links to related resources or tools, bridging the gap between literature and biological data.

SciLite: a platform for displaying text-mined annotations as a means to link research articles with biological data

PubMed Central

Talo, Francesco; Ide-Smith, Michele; Gobeill, Julien; Carter, Jacob; Batista-Navarro, Riza; Ananiadou, Sophia; Ruch, Patrick; McEntyre, Johanna

2017-01-01

The tremendous growth in biological data has resulted in an increase in the number of research papers being published. This presents a great challenge for scientists in searching and assimilating facts described in those papers. Particularly, biological databases depend on curators to add highly precise and useful information that are usually extracted by reading research articles. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find ways to improve linking literature to the underlying data, thereby minimising the effort in browsing content and identifying key biological concepts.   As part of the development of Europe PMC, we have developed a new platform, SciLite, which integrates text-mined annotations from different sources and overlays those outputs on research articles. The aim is to aid researchers and curators using Europe PMC in finding key concepts more easily and provide links to related resources or tools, bridging the gap between literature and biological data. PMID:28948232

Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

The overall goal of the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) experiment is to resolve why Polar Mesospheric Clouds form and why they vary. By measuring PMCs and the thermal, chemical and dynamical environment in which they form, we will quanti@ the connection between these clouds and the meteorology of the polar mesosphere. In the end, this will provide the basis for study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global change. The results of AIM will be a rigorous validation of predictive models that can reliably use past PMC changes and present trends as indicators of global change. The AIM goal will be achieved by measuring PMC extinction, brightness, spatial distribution, particle size distributions, gravity wave activity, dust influx to the atmosphere and precise, vertical profile measurements of temperature, H20, C&, 0 3 , C02, NO. and aerosols. These data can only be obtained by a complement of instruments on an orbiting spacecraft (S/C).

Neuroanatomical correlates of biological motion detection.

PubMed

Gilaie-Dotan, Sharon; Kanai, Ryota; Bahrami, Bahador; Rees, Geraint; Saygin, Ayse P

2013-02-01

Biological motion detection is both commonplace and important, but there is great inter-individual variability in this ability, the neural basis of which is currently unknown. Here we examined whether the behavioral variability in biological motion detection is reflected in brain anatomy. Perceptual thresholds for detection of biological motion and control conditions (non-biological object motion detection and motion coherence) were determined in a group of healthy human adults (n=31) together with structural magnetic resonance images of the brain. Voxel based morphometry analyzes revealed that gray matter volumes of left posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) and left ventral premotor cortex (vPMC) significantly predicted individual differences in biological motion detection, but showed no significant relationship with performance on the control tasks. Our study reveals a neural basis associated with the inter-individual variability in biological motion detection, reliably linking the neuroanatomical structure of left pSTS and vPMC with biological motion detection performance. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Research with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Treatment of Aphasia

PubMed Central

Martin, Paula I; Naeser, Margaret A.; Ho, Michael; Treglia, Ethan; Kaplan, Elina; Baker, Errol H.; Pascual-Leone, Alvaro

2010-01-01

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been used to improve language behavior, including naming, in stroke patients with chronic, nonfluent aphasia. Part 1 of this paper reviews functional imaging studies related to language recovery in aphasia. Part 2 reviews the rationale for using rTMS to treat nonfluent aphasia (based on functional imaging); and presents our current rTMS protocol. We present language results from our rTMS studies, and imaging results from overt naming fMRI scans obtained pre- and post- a series of rTMS treatments. Part 3 presents results from a pilot study where rTMS treatments were followed immediately by constraint-induced language therapy. Part 4 reviews our diffusion tensor imaging study that examined possible connectivity of arcuate fasciculus to different parts of Broca’s area (pars triangularis, PTr; pars opercularis, POp); and to ventral premotor cortex (vPMC). The potential role of mirror neurons in R POp and vPMC in aphasia recovery is discussed. PMID:19818232

Issues to be addressed in the design and fabrication of ultralightweight, meter class optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krumweide, Gary C.; Dyer, J.; Kasl, E. P.; Mehle, G. V.

1998-01-01

There is a growing need for large aperture, ultralightweight, deployable optics (mirrors) for various science, military and commercial compact satellites (Pleimann 1997). This paper will examine the engineering and manufacturing considerations that must be addressed in order to satisfy the requirements for these sought after optics. In order to limit the scope of this paper, only Graphite Fiber Reinforced/Polymer Matrix Composites (GFR/PMC) will be under consideration because of the potential to satisfy ultralightweight mirror requirements (5-10 Kg/m2) (Kasl 1997). The requirements associated with specular mirror concepts that Composite Optics, Incorporated (COI) has proposed to Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/VS) and NASA Langley Research Center for visible range optics and LIDAR (light bucket) optics, respectively, will also be our interest. Moreover, it is the intent of this paper to illustrate how COI's proposed design/manufacturing concepts for visible and LIDAR optics have evolved based on overcoming, or working around, material constraints and/or undesirable characteristics associated with GFR/PMC.

Space station freedom resource nodes internal thermal control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Merhoff, Paul; Dellinger, Brent; Taggert, Shawn; Cornwell, John

1993-01-01

This paper presents an overview of the design and operation of the internal thermal control system (ITCS) developed for Space Station Freedom by the NASA-Johnson Space Center and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace to provide cooling for the resource nodes, airlock, and pressurized logistics modules. The ITCS collects, transports and rejects waste heat from these modules by a dual-loop, single-phase water cooling system. ITCS performance, cooling, and flow rate requirements are presented. An ITCS fluid schematic is shown and an overview of the current baseline system design and its operation is presented. Assembly sequence of the ITCS is explained as its configuration develops from Man Tended Capability (MTC), for which node 2 alone is cooled, to Permanently Manned Capability (PMC) where the airlock, a pressurized logistics module, and node 1 are cooled, in addition to node 2. A SINDA/FLUINT math model of the ITCS is described, and results of analyses for an MTC and a PMC case are shown and discussed.

Temporal-spatial evolution of the hydrologic drought characteristics of the karst drainage basins in South China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Zhonghua; Liang, Hong; Yang, Chaohui; Huang, Fasu; Zeng, Xinbo

2018-02-01

Hydrologic drought, as a typical natural phenomenon in the context of global climate change, is the extension and development of meteorological and agricultural droughts, and it is an eventual and extreme drought. This study selects 55 hydrological control basins in Southern China as research areas. The study analyzes features, such as intensity and occurrence frequency of hydrologic droughts, and explores the spatial-temporal evolution patterns in the karst drainage basins in Southern China by virtue of Streamflow Drought Index. Results show that (1) the general hydrologic droughts from 1970s to 2010s exhibited ;an upward trend after having experienced a previous decline; in the karst drainage basins in Southern China; the trend was mainly represented by the gradual alleviation of hydrologic droughts from 1970s to 1990s and the gradual aggravation from 2000s to 2010s. (2) The spatial-temporal evolution pattern of occurrence frequency in the karst drainage basins in Southern China was consistent with the intensity of hydrologic droughts. The periods of 1970s and 2010s exhibited the highest occurrence frequency. (3) The karst drainage basins in Southern China experienced extremely complex variability of hydrologic droughts from 1970s to 2010s. Drought intensity and occurrence frequency significantly vary for different types of hydrology.

Relation of Cloud Occurrence Frequency, Overlap, and Effective Thickness Derived from CALIPSO and CloudSat Merged Cloud Vertical Profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kato, Seiji; Sun-Mack, Sunny; Miller, Walter F.; Rose, Fred G.; Chen, Yan; Minnis, Patrick; Wielicki, Bruce A.

2009-01-01

A cloud frequency of occurrence matrix is generated using merged cloud vertical profile derived from Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) and Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR). The matrix contains vertical profiles of cloud occurrence frequency as a function of the uppermost cloud top. It is shown that the cloud fraction and uppermost cloud top vertical pro les can be related by a set of equations when the correlation distance of cloud occurrence, which is interpreted as an effective cloud thickness, is introduced. The underlying assumption in establishing the above relation is that cloud overlap approaches the random overlap with increasing distance separating cloud layers and that the probability of deviating from the random overlap decreases exponentially with distance. One month of CALIPSO and CloudSat data support these assumptions. However, the correlation distance sometimes becomes large, which might be an indication of precipitation. The cloud correlation distance is equivalent to the de-correlation distance introduced by Hogan and Illingworth [2000] when cloud fractions of both layers in a two-cloud layer system are the same.

75 FR 14589 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-26

... Triennial Market Power Update. Filed Date: 03/08/2010. Accession Number: 20100315-0088. Comment Date: 5 p.m....C. Description: PJM Interconnection, LLC submits Wholesale Market Participation Agreement designated... updates to the market based rate application filed 3/12/2010. Filed Date: 03/16/2010. Accession Number...

78 FR 59383 - Principal Management Corporation, et al.; Notice of Application

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-26

... sections 12(d)(1)(A) and (B) of the Act. Applicants: Principal Management Corporation (``PMC''), Principal... SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION [Investment Company Act Release No. 30692; 812-14136] Principal Management Corporation, et al.; Notice of Application September 20, 2013. AGENCY: Securities and Exchange...

Application of the principle of maximum conformality to the hadroproduction of the Higgs boson at the LHC

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

Wang, Sheng-Quan; Wu, Xing-Gang; Brodsky, Stanley J.

We present improved perturbative QCD (pQCD) predictions for Higgs boson hadroproduction at the LHC by applying the principle of maximum conformality (PMC), a procedure which resums the pQCD series using the renormalization group (RG), thereby eliminating the dependence of the predictions on the choice of the renormalization scheme while minimizing sensitivity to the initial choice of the renormalization scale. In previous pQCD predictions for Higgs boson hadroproduction, it has been conventional to assume that the renormalization scale μ r of the QCD coupling α s ( μ r ) is the Higgs mass and then to vary this choice overmore » the range 1 / 2 m H < μ r < 2 m H in order to estimate the theory uncertainty. However, this error estimate is only sensitive to the nonconformal β terms in the pQCD series, and thus it fails to correctly estimate the theory uncertainty in cases where a pQCD series has large higher-order contributions, as is the case for Higgs boson hadroproduction. Furthermore, this ad hoc choice of scale and range gives pQCD predictions which depend on the renormalization scheme being used, in contradiction to basic RG principles. In contrast, after applying the PMC, we obtain next-to-next-to-leading-order RG resummed pQCD predictions for Higgs boson hadroproduction which are renormalization-scheme independent and have minimal sensitivity to the choice of the initial renormalization scale. Taking m H = 125 GeV , the PMC predictions for the p p → H X Higgs inclusive hadroproduction cross sections for various LHC center-of-mass energies are σ Incl | 7 TeV = 21.2 1 + 1.36 - 1.32 pb , σ Incl | 8 TeV = 27.3 7 + 1.65 - 1.59 pb , and σ Incl | 13 TeV = 65.7 2 + 3.46 - 3.0 pb . We also predict the fiducial cross section σ fid ( p p → H → γ γ ) : σ fid | 7 TeV = 30.1 + 2.3 - 2.2 fb , σ fid | 8 TeV = 38.3 + 2.9 - 2.8 fb , and σ fid | 13 TeV = 85.8 + 5.7 - 5.3 fb . The error limits in these predictions include the small residual high-order renormalization-scale dependence plus the uncertainty from the factorization scale. The PMC predictions show better agreement with the ATLAS measurements than the LHC Higgs Cross Section Working Group predictions which are based on conventional renormalization-scale setting.« less

Isotope hydrology of voluminous cold springs in fractured rock from an active volcanic region, northeastern California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roses, Timothy P.; Lee Davisson, M.; Criss, Robert E.

1996-05-01

The more than 1550 km2 (600 mi2) Hat Creek Basin in northeastern California is host to several first magnitude cold springs that emanate from Quaternary basaltic rocks with individual discharge rates ranging from 1.7 to 8.5 m3 s-1 (60-300 ft3 s-1). Stable isotope (δ18O, δD, δ13C) and 14C measurements of surface and groundwater samples were used to identify recharge areas, and to evaluate aquifer residence times and flow paths. Recharge locations were constrained from the regional decrement in meteoric water δ18O values as a function of elevation, determined to be -0.23‰ per 100 m for small springs and creek waters collected along the western Cascade slope of this region. In general, the large-volume springs are lower in (δ18O than surrounding meteoric waters, and are inferred to originate in high-elevation, high-precipitation regions up to 50 km away from their discharge points. Large spring 14C abundances range from 99 to 41 % modern carbon (pmc), and most show evidence of interaction with three distinct carbon isotope reservoirs. These reservoirs are tentatively identified as (1) soil CO2 gas equilibrated under open system conditions with groundwater in the recharge zone [δ13CDIC ≈ -18‰, 14C > 100 pmc], (2) dissolved carbon equilibrated with atmospheric CO2 gas [δ13CDIC ≈ +1‰, 14C > 100 pmc], and (3) dissolved carbon derived from volcanic CO2 gas emissions [δ13CDIC≈0‰, 14C=0 pmc]. Many regional waters show a decrease in 14C abundance with increasing δ13C values, a pattern indicative of interaction with dead carbon originating from volcanic CO2 gas. Several lines of evidence suggest that actual groundwater residence times are too short (⩽ 200 years) to apply radiocarbon dating corrections. In particular, water temperatures measured at springs show that deep groundwater circulation does not occur, which implies an insufficient aquifer volume to account for both the high discharge rates and long residence times suggested by 14C apparent ages. The large springs also exhibit rapid decreases in flow during periods of drought that suggests a high level of aquifer interconnectivity to the recharge area. The estimated amount of volcanic CO2 dissolved in surface and groundwater originating from the Lassen highlands is consistent with the conversion of approximately 10% of the geothermal CO2 flux into dissolved inorganic carbon.

Brain effective connectivity during motor-imagery and execution following stroke and rehabilitation.

PubMed

Bajaj, Sahil; Butler, Andrew J; Drake, Daniel; Dhamala, Mukesh

2015-01-01

Brain areas within the motor system interact directly or indirectly during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks. These interactions and their functionality can change following stroke and recovery. How brain network interactions reorganize and recover their functionality during recovery and treatment following stroke are not well understood. To contribute to answering these questions, we recorded blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals from 10 stroke survivors and evaluated dynamical causal modeling (DCM)-based effective connectivity among three motor areas: primary motor cortex (M1), pre-motor cortex (PMC) and supplementary motor area (SMA), during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks. We compared the connectivity between affected and unaffected hemispheres before and after mental practice and combined mental practice and physical therapy as treatments. The treatment (intervention) period varied in length between 14 to 51 days but all patients received the same dose of 60 h of treatment. Using Bayesian model selection (BMS) approach in the DCM approach, we found that, after intervention, the same network dominated during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks but modulatory parameters suggested a suppressive influence of SM A on M1 during the motor-imagery task whereas the influence of SM A on M1 was unrestricted during the motor-execution task. We found that the intervention caused a reorganization of the network during both tasks for unaffected as well as for the affected hemisphere. Using Bayesian model averaging (BMA) approach, we found that the intervention improved the regional connectivity among the motor areas during both the tasks. The connectivity between PMC and M1 was stronger in motor-imagery tasks whereas the connectivity from PMC to M1, SM A to M1 dominated in motor-execution tasks. There was significant behavioral improvement (p = 0.001) in sensation and motor movements because of the intervention as reflected by behavioral Fugl-Meyer (FMA) measures, which were significantly correlated (p = 0.05) with a subset of connectivity. These findings suggest that PMC and M1 play a crucial role during motor-imagery as well as during motor-execution task. In addition, M1 causes more exchange of causal information among motor areas during a motor-execution task than during a motor-imagery task due to its interaction with SM A. This study expands our understanding of motor network involved during two different tasks, which are commonly used during rehabilitation following stroke. A clear understanding of the effective connectivity networks leads to a better treatment in helping stroke survivors regain motor ability.

[Relation of the incidence of pain of the lumbar spine and the type of occupation].

PubMed

Stryła, W; Konieczna, D

1989-01-01

An analysis of the frequency of pathologic changes and the occurrence of pain of the lumbar spine in persons representing such professions as grinders, welders, smiths and office workers has been made. It has been found that the frequency of occurrence of pain syndrome of the lumbar spine in the group of grinders and smiths was from 2 to 2.5 times higher than in other analysed-groups.

[Occurrence and number of bacteria from the Micrococcus, Kocuria, Nesterenkonia, Kytococcus and Dermacoccus genera on skin and mucous membranes in humans].

PubMed

Szczerba, Izabela

2003-01-01

The aim of work was to evaluate the frequency of occurrence of bacteria from genera of Micrococcus, Kocuria, Nesterenkonia, kytococcus and Dermatococcus on human skin and mucous membranes in healthy population. Among 150 investigated persons these bacteria were found in 122 (81.3%). The frequency of isolation was similar in both sex (82.4% in female and 79.7% in male). Most often the strains were isolated from oral cavity (48.7%), and from skin of palm and forearm (40.7% and 37.3%). Least frequency of occurrence was observed in vestibule of nose (26%). The predominant isolated strains were: M. luteus (26.2%), and N. halobia (21%) followed by K. varians (16.4%), M. lylae (12.2%), D. sedentarius (9.1%), K. kristinae (7.3%), K. nishinomiyaensis (7.3%), K. rosea (0.3%).

Quantifying the effect of forests on frequency and intensity of rockfalls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moos, Christine; Dorren, Luuk; Stoffel, Markus

2017-02-01

Forests serve as a natural means of protection against small rockfalls. Due to their barrier effect, they reduce the intensity and the propagation probability of falling rocks and thus reduce the occurrence frequency of a rockfall event for a given element at risk. However, despite established knowledge on the protective effect of forests, they are generally neglected in quantitative rockfall risk analyses. Their inclusion in quantitative rockfall risk assessment would, however, be necessary to express their efficiency in monetary terms and to allow comparison of forests with other protective measures, such as nets and dams. The goal of this study is to quantify the effect of forests on the occurrence frequency and intensity of rockfalls. We therefore defined an onset frequency of blocks based on a power-law magnitude-frequency distribution and determined their propagation probabilities on a virtual slope based on rockfall simulations. Simulations were run for different forest and non-forest scenarios under varying forest stand and terrain conditions. We analysed rockfall frequencies and intensities at five different distances from the release area. Based on two multivariate statistical prediction models, we investigated which of the terrain and forest characteristics predominantly drive the role of forest in reducing rockfall occurrence frequency and intensity and whether they are able to predict the effect of forest on rockfall risk. The rockfall occurrence frequency below forested slopes is reduced between approximately 10 and 90 % compared to non-forested slope conditions; whereas rockfall intensity is reduced by 10 to 70 %. This reduction increases with increasing slope length and decreases with decreasing tree density, tree diameter and increasing rock volume, as well as in cases of clustered or gappy forest structures. The statistical prediction models reveal that the cumulative basal area of trees, block volume and horizontal forest structure represent key variables for the prediction of the protective effect of forests. In order to validate these results, models have to be tested on real slopes with a wide variation of terrain and forest conditions.

The Third Indochina Conflict: Cambodia’s Total War

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-12

Military Region. NR National Road. OMZ Operational Military Zone. PAVN People’s Army of Vietnam. PMC Provincial Military Command. PRK People’s......of the Khmer Rouge regime escaped to the Cambodian-Thai border and started a resistance movement aimed at deposing the PRK and driving out the

MULTI-SITE PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS OF CANDIDATE METHODOLOGIES FOR DETERMINING COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER (PMC) CONCENTRATIONS

EPA Science Inventory

Comprehensive field studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for measuring the coarse fraction of PM10 in ambient air. Five separate sampling approaches were evaluated at each of three sampling sites. As the primary basis of comparison, a discret...

MULTI-SITE EVALUATIONS OF CANDIDATE METHODOLOGIES FOR DETERMINING COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER (PMC) CONCENTRATIONS

EPA Science Inventory

Comprehensive field studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for measuring the coarse fraction of PM10 in ambient air. Five separate sampling approaches were evaluated at each of three sampling sites. As the primary basis of comparison, a discret...

MULTI-SITE EVALUATIONS OF CANDIDATE METHODOLOGIES FOR DETERMINING COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER (PMC) CONCENTRATIONS

EPA Science Inventory

Comprehensive field studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for measuring the coarse fraction of PM10 in ambient air. Five separate sampling approaches were evaluated at each of three sampling sites. As the primary basis of comparison, a discrete ...

Occurrence of trends of weed seed and pathogen contaminants in bentgrass seed lots in Oregon

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Nearly all of the bentgrass seed grown in the United States is produced in Oregon. However, little is known about the occurrence of weed seed or pathogen propagule contaminants in bentgrass seed lots. This study was conducted to assess the diversity and frequency of occurrence of weed seeds, ergot (...

Arctic boundary layer properties and its influence on cloud occurrence frequency, phase and structure in autumn season

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, S.; Dong, X.; Xi, B.

2017-12-01

In this study, autumnal boundary layer characteristics and cloud properties have been investigated using data collected at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement North Slope of Alaska (ARM NSA) site from January 2002 to December 2008. We found that both cloud and planetary boundary layer (PBL) properties can be well distinguished by surface wind directions. When the ARM NSA site is dominated by a northerly wind during the period September- November, the PBL is at near saturation for all three months; while the maximum RH layer varies from low and thin in September, to higher and thicker in October, and then it becomes close to surface again in November. Both the ceilometer and the MPL derived cloud base heights coincide well with the RH maximum layer in the PBL for all three autumnal months. The frequencies of occurrence of mixed phase clouds in September and October are around 60-80% under a northerly wind, which are about 1.5 times higher than those during a southerly wind. Under northerly wind, the PDFs of PBL temperature and specific humidity are narrow and unimodal, with a peak probability around 0.4-0.5. Under a southerly wind, on the other hand, the PBL is both warmer and wetter than northerly wind profiles, which result in lower RH values (10-15% lower) in September and October; and the PDFs of PBL temperature and specific humidity are more evenly distributed with larger distribution range and lower PDF peak values (<0.3). In September, colder and dryer PBL is more favorable for mixed phase cloud formation, cloud occurrence frequency decreases from 90% to 60% as PBL temperature and specific humidity increase. In October, the frequency of occurrence of mixed phase clouds also decreases from 90% to 50-60% as PBL temperature increases. While in November, it increases first and then decreases with increasing PBL temperature and specific humidity. The frequency of occurrence of mixed phase clouds is linearly correlated to PBL RH values: for all three months, it increases from 20-90% as PBL RH value increases from 50-100%, with R2 values of 0.85-0.95. Liquid-only cloud occurrence frequency has little relationship with PBL RH values, while it increases from 1% to 20% as PBL specific humidity increases from 0-5 g/kg, with R2 values of 0.6-0.85.

Modeling and simulation of radiation from hypersonic flows with Monte Carlo methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sohn, Ilyoup

During extreme-Mach number reentry into Earth's atmosphere, spacecraft experience hypersonic non-equilibrium flow conditions that dissociate molecules and ionize atoms. Such situations occur behind a shock wave leading to high temperatures, which have an adverse effect on the thermal protection system and radar communications. Since the electronic energy levels of gaseous species are strongly excited for high Mach number conditions, the radiative contribution to the total heat load can be significant. In addition, radiative heat source within the shock layer may affect the internal energy distribution of dissociated and weakly ionized gas species and the number density of ablative species released from the surface of vehicles. Due to the radiation total heat load to the heat shield surface of the vehicle may be altered beyond mission tolerances. Therefore, in the design process of spacecrafts the effect of radiation must be considered and radiation analyses coupled with flow solvers have to be implemented to improve the reliability during the vehicle design stage. To perform the first stage for radiation analyses coupled with gas-dynamics, efficient databasing schemes for emission and absorption coefficients were developed to model radiation from hypersonic, non-equilibrium flows. For bound-bound transitions, spectral information including the line-center wavelength and assembled parameters for efficient calculations of emission and absorption coefficients are stored for typical air plasma species. Since the flow is non-equilibrium, a rate equation approach including both collisional and radiatively induced transitions was used to calculate the electronic state populations, assuming quasi-steady-state (QSS). The Voigt line shape function was assumed for modeling the line broadening effect. The accuracy and efficiency of the databasing scheme was examined by comparing results of the databasing scheme with those of NEQAIR for the Stardust flowfield. An accuracy of approximately 1 % was achieved with an efficiency about three times faster than the NEQAIR code. To perform accurate and efficient analyses of chemically reacting flowfield - radiation interactions, the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) and the photon Monte Carlo (PMC) radiative transport methods are used to simulate flowfield - radiation coupling from transitional to peak heating freestream conditions. The non-catalytic and fully catalytic surface conditions were modeled and good agreement of the stagnation-point convective heating between DSMC and continuum fluid dynamics (CFD) calculation under the assumption of fully catalytic surface was achieved. Stagnation-point radiative heating, however, was found to be very different. To simulate three-dimensional radiative transport, the finite-volume based PMC (FV-PMC) method was employed. DSMC - FV-PMC simulations with the goal of understanding the effect of radiation on the flow structure for different degrees of hypersonic non-equilibrium are presented. It is found that except for the highest altitudes, the coupling of radiation influences the flowfield, leading to a decrease in both heavy particle translational and internal temperatures and a decrease in the convective heat flux to the vehicle body. The DSMC - FV-PMC coupled simulations are compared with the previous coupled simulations and correlations obtained using continuum flow modeling and one-dimensional radiative transport. The modeling of radiative transport is further complicated by radiative transitions occurring during the excitation process of the same radiating gas species. This interaction affects the distribution of electronic state populations and, in turn, the radiative transport. The radiative transition rate in the excitation/de-excitation processes and the radiative transport equation (RTE) must be coupled simultaneously to account for non-local effects. The QSS model is presented to predict the electronic state populations of radiating gas species taking into account non-local radiation. The definition of the escape factor which is dependent on the incoming radiative intensity from over all directions is presented. The effect of the escape factor on the distribution of electronic state populations of the atomic N and O radiating species is examined in a highly non-equilibrium flow condition using DSMC and PMC methods and the corresponding change of the radiative heat flux due to the non-local radiation is also investigated.

Joint estimation of habitat dynamics and species interactions: Disturbance reduces co-occurrence of non-native predators with an endangered toad

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, David A.W.; Brehme, Cheryl S.; Hines, James E.; Nichols, James D.; Fisher, Robert N.

2012-01-01

1. Ecologists have long been interested in the processes that determine patterns of species occurrence and co-occurrence. Potential short-comings of many existing empirical approaches that address these questions include a reliance on patterns of occurrence at a single time point, failure to account properly for imperfect detection and treating the environment as a static variable.2. We fit detection and non-detection data collected from repeat visits using a dynamic site occupancy model that simultaneously accounts for the temporal dynamics of a focal prey species, its predators and its habitat. Our objective was to determine how disturbance and species interactions affect the co-occurrence probabilities of an endangered toad and recently introduced non-native predators in stream breeding habitats. For this, we determined statistical support for alternative processes that could affect co-occurrence frequency in the system.3. We collected occurrence data at stream segments in two watersheds where streams were largely ephemeral and one watershed dominated by perennial streams. Co-occurrence probabilities of toads with non-native predators were related to disturbance frequency, with low co-occurrence in the ephemeral watershed and high co-occurrence in the perennial watershed. This occurred because once predators were established at a site, they were rarely lost from the site except in cases when the site dried out. Once dry sites became suitable again, toads colonized them much more rapidly than predators, creating a period of predator-free space.4. We attribute the dynamics to a storage effect, where toads persisting outside the stream environment during periods of drought rapidly colonized sites when they become suitable again. Our results support that even in highly connected stream networks, temporal disturbance can structure frequencies with which breeding amphibians encounter non-native predators.5. Dynamic multi-state occupancy models are a powerful tool for rigorously examining hypotheses about inter-species and species–habitat interactions. In contrast to previous methods that infer dynamic processes based on static patterns in occupancy, the approach we took allows the dynamic processes that determine species–species and species–habitat interactions to be directly estimated.

Attempting to physically explain space-time correlation of extremes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernardara, Pietro; Gailhard, Joel

2010-05-01

Spatial and temporal clustering of hydro-meteorological extreme events is scientific evidence. Moreover, the statistical parameters characterizing their local frequencies of occurrence show clear spatial patterns. Thus, in order to robustly assess the hydro-meteorological hazard, statistical models need to be able to take into account spatial and temporal dependencies. Statistical models considering long term correlation for quantifying and qualifying temporal and spatial dependencies are available, such as multifractal approach. Furthermore, the development of regional frequency analysis techniques allows estimating the frequency of occurrence of extreme events taking into account spatial patterns on the extreme quantiles behaviour. However, in order to understand the origin of spatio-temporal clustering, an attempt to find physical explanation should be done. Here, some statistical evidences of spatio-temporal correlation and spatial patterns of extreme behaviour are given on a large database of more than 400 rainfall and discharge series in France. In particular, the spatial distribution of multifractal and Generalized Pareto distribution parameters shows evident correlation patterns in the behaviour of frequency of occurrence of extremes. It is then shown that the identification of atmospheric circulation pattern (weather types) can physically explain the temporal clustering of extreme rainfall events (seasonality) and the spatial pattern of the frequency of occurrence. Moreover, coupling this information with the hydrological modelization of a watershed (as in the Schadex approach) an explanation of spatio-temporal distribution of extreme discharge can also be provided. We finally show that a hydro-meteorological approach (as the Schadex approach) can explain and take into account space and time dependencies of hydro-meteorological extreme events.

Multiple sessions of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in focal hand dystonia: clinical and physiological effects

PubMed Central

Kimberley, Teresa Jacobson; Borich, Michael R.; Arora, Sanjeev; Siebner, Hartwig R.

2016-01-01

Purpose The ability of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to enhance intracortical inhibition has motivated its use as a potential therapeutic intervention in focal hand dystonia (FHD). In this preliminary investigation, we assessed the physiologic and behavioral effects of multiple sessions of rTMS in FHD. Methods 12 patients with FHD underwent five daily-sessions of 1Hz rTMS to contralateral dorsal premotor cortex (dPMC). Patients held a pencil and made movements that did not elicit dystonic symptoms during rTMS. We hypothesized that an active but non-dystonic motor state would increase beneficial effects of rTMS. Five additional patients received sham-rTMS protocol. The area under curve (AUC) of the motor evoked potentials and the cortical silent period (CSP) were measured to assess changes in corticospinal excitability and intracortical inhibition, respectively. Behavioral measures included pen force and velocity during handwriting and subjective report. Results Multiple-session rTMS strengthened intracortical inhibition causing a prolongation of CSP after 3 days of intervention and pen force was reduced at day 1 and 5, leaving other measures unchanged. 68% of patients self-reported as ‘responders’ at day 5, and 58% at follow-up. Age predicted responders. Conclusions A strong therapeutic potential of this rTMS paradigm in FHD was not supported but findings warrant further investigation. PMID:23340117

Survey of Pc3-5 ULF velocity oscillations in SuperDARN THEMIS-mode data: Occurrence statistics and driving mechanisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, X.; Ruohoniemi, J. M.; Baker, J. B.; Lin, D.; Bland, E. C.; Hartinger, M.; Scales, W.

2017-12-01

Ultra-low frequency (ULF: 1 mHz-10 Hz) waves are believed to play an important role in the energization and transport of plasma within the magnetosphere-ionosphere system, as well as the transfer of energy from the solar wind. Most previous statistical studies of ionospheric ULF waves using Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) data have been constrained to the Pc5 band ( 1-7 mHz) and/or one or two radars covering a limited range of latitudes. This is partially due to lack of a database cataloging high time resolution data and an efficient way to identify wave events. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive survey of ULF wave signatures in the Pc3-5 band using 6 s resolution data from all SuperDARN radars in the northern hemisphere operating in THEMIS-mode from 2010 to 2016. Numerical experiments were conducted to derive dynamic thresholds for automated detection of ULF waves at different frequencies using the Lomb-Scargle periodogram technique. The spatial occurrence distribution, frequency characteristics, seasonal effects, solar wind condition and geomagnetic activity level dependence have been studied. We found Pc5 events dominate at high latitudes with a most probable frequency of 2 mHz while Pc3-4 are relatively more common at mid-latitudes on the nightside with a most probable frequency of 11 mHz. At high latitudes the occurrence rate of poloidal Pc3-5 peaks in the dusk sector and in winter while at mid-latitudes the poloidal Pc3-4 occurrence rate peaks at pre-midnight. This pre-midnight occurrence peak becomes more prominent with increasing AE index value, in equinox and during southward IMF, which suggests many of these events are most likely Pi2 pulsations associated with magnetotail dynamics during active geomagnetic intervals.

Thermal regimes, nonnative trout, and their influences on native Bull Trout in the Upper Klamath River Basin, Oregon

USGS Publications Warehouse

Benjamin, Joseph R.; Heltzel, Jeannie; Dunham, Jason B.; Heck, Michael; Banish, Nolan P.

2016-01-01

The occurrence of fish species may be strongly influenced by a stream’s thermal regime (magnitude, frequency, variation, and timing). For instance, magnitude and frequency provide information about sublethal temperatures, variability in temperature can affect behavioral thermoregulation and bioenergetics, and timing of thermal events may cue life history events, such as spawning and migration. We explored the relationship between thermal regimes and the occurrences of native Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus and nonnative Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis and Brown Trout Salmo trutta across 87 sites in the upper Klamath River basin, Oregon. Our objectives were to associate descriptors of the thermal regime with trout occurrence, predict the probability of Bull Trout occurrence, and estimate upper thermal tolerances of the trout species. We found that each species was associated with a different suite of thermal regime descriptors. Bull Trout were present at sites that were cooler, had fewer high-temperature events, had less variability, and took longer to warm. Brook Trout were also observed at cooler sites with fewer high-temperature events, but the sites were more variable and Brook Trout occurrence was not associated with a timing descriptor. In contrast, Brown Trout were present at sites that were warmer and reached higher temperatures faster, but they were not associated with frequency or variability descriptors. Among the descriptors considered, magnitude (specifically June degree-days) was the most important in predicting the probability of Bull Trout occurrence, and model predictions were strengthened by including Brook Trout occurrence. Last, all three trout species exhibited contrasting patterns of tolerating longer exposures to lower temperatures. Tolerance limits for Bull Trout were lower than those for Brook Trout and Brown Trout, with contrasts especially evident for thermal maxima. Our results confirm the value of exploring a suite of thermal regime descriptors for understanding the distribution and occurrence of fishes. Moreover, these descriptors and their relationships to fish should be considered with future changes in land use, water use, or climate.

Two Azimuthally Separated Regions of Cusp Ion Injection Observed via Energetic Neutral Atoms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abe, M.; Taguchi, S.; Collier, M. R.; Moore, T. E.

2011-01-01

The low-energy neutral atom (LENA) imager on the IMAGE spacecraft can detect energetic neutral atoms produced by ion injection into the cusp through a charge exchange with the Earth's hydrogen exosphere. We examined the occurrence of the LENA cusp signal during positive IMF B(sub z) in terms of the arrival direction and the IMF clock angle theta(sub CA). Results of statistical analyses show that the occurrence frequency is high on the postnoon side when theta(sub CA) is between approximately 20 degrees and approximately 50 degrees. This is ascribed to ion injection caused by cusp reconnection typical of positive IMF B(sub z). Our results also show that there is another situation of high occurrence frequency, which can be identified with theta(sub CA) of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 80 degrees. When theta(sub CA) is relatively large (60 degrees - 80 degrees), occurrence frequencies are high at relatively low latitudes over a wide extent spanning both prenoon and postnoon sectors. This feature suggests that the ion injection is caused by reconnection at the dayside magnetopause. Its postnoon side boundary shifts toward the prenoon as theta(sub CA) decreases. When theta(sub CA) is less than approximately 50 degrees, the high occurrence frequency exists well inside the prenoon sector, which is azimuthally separated from the postnoon region ascribed to cusp reconnection. The prenoon region, which is thought due to ion injection caused by dayside reconnection, may explain the recent report that proton aurora brightening occurs in the unanticipated prenoon sector of the northern high-latitude ionosphere for IMF B(sub y) greater than 0 and B(sub z) greater than 0.

Survey of Ionospheric Pc3-5 ULF Wave Signatures in SuperDARN High Time Resolution Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, X.; Ruohoniemi, J. M.; Baker, J. B. H.; Lin, D.; Bland, E. C.; Hartinger, M. D.; Scales, W. A.

2018-05-01

Ionospheric signatures of ultralow frequency (ULF) wave in the Pc3-5 band (1.7-40.0 mHz) were surveyed using ˜6-s resolution data from Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) radars in the Northern Hemisphere from 2010 to 2016. Numerical experiments were conducted to derive wave period-dependent thresholds for automated detection of ULF waves using the Lomb-Scargle periodogram technique. The spatial occurrence distribution, frequency characteristics, seasonal effects, solar wind condition, and geomagnetic activity level dependence have been studied. Pc5 wave events were found to dominate at high and polar latitudes with a most probable frequency of 2.08 ± 0.07 mHz, while Pc3-4 waves were relatively more common at midlatitudes on the nightside with a most probable frequency of 11.39 ± 0.14 mHz. At high latitudes, the occurrence rate of Pc4-5 waves maximizes in the dusk sector and during winter. These events tend to occur during low geomagnetic activity and northward interplanetary magnetic field. For the category of radially bounded but longitudinally extended Pc4 events in the duskside ionosphere, an internal driving source is suggested. At midlatitudes, the poloidal Pc3-4 occurrence rate maximizes premidnight and during equinox. This tendency becomes more prominent with increasing auroral electrojet (AE) index and during southward interplanetary magnetic field, which suggests that many of these events are Pi2 and Pc3-4 pulsations associated with magnetotail dynamics during active geomagnetic intervals. The overall occurrence rate of Pc3-5 wave events is lowest in summer, which suggests that the ionospheric conductivity plays a role in controlling ULF wave occurrence.

On the occurrence and strength of multi-frequency multi-GNSS Ionospheric Scintillations in Indian sector during declining phase of solar cycle 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivasu, V. K. D.; Dashora, N.; Prasad, D. S. V. V. D.; Niranjan, K.; Gopi Krishna, S.

2018-04-01

This study presents unique perspectives of occurrence and strength of low latitude ionospheric scintillations on multiple signals of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and its frequency dependence using continuous observation records of 780 nights. A robust comparative analysis is performed using scintillation index, S4 and its variation during pre-midnight and post-midnight duration from a GNSS receiver located at Waltair (17.7°N, 83.3°E), India, covering period from July 2014 to August 2016. The results, generally exhibit the impact of declining phase of solar cycle 24 on occurrence and strength of scintillations, which, however, is evidently different over different frequencies transmitted from different GNSS systems. A deeper quantitative analysis uniquely reveals that apart from the solar cycle and seasonal effects, the number of visible satellites of a selected GNSS markedly affect the occurrence and also the strength. Processing scheme of adopting 6 hourly time windows of pre-midnight and post-midnight brought a novel result that the strength and occurrence of strong scintillations decrease with declining solar activity during pre-midnight hours but remarkably increase for moderate and weak scintillations during post-midnight. The physical processes that dominate the post-midnight equatorial ionosphere are invoked to explain such variations that are special during declining solar activity. Finally, inter-GNSS signal analysis in terms of the effect of strong, moderate and weak scintillations is presented with due consideration of number of satellite passes affected and frequency dependence of mean S4. The quantitative results of this study emphasize for the first time effect of low latitude scintillation on GNSS signals in Indian zone under changing background solar and seasonal conditions.

Bio-Based Nanocomposites: An Alternative to Traditional Composites

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tate, Jitendra S.; Akinola, Adekunle T.; Kabakov, Dmitri

2009-01-01

Polymer matrix composites (PMC), often referred to as fiber reinforced plastics (FRP), consist of fiber reinforcement (E-glass, S2-glass, aramid, carbon, or natural fibers) and polymer matrix/resin (polyester, vinyl ester, polyurethane, phenolic, and epoxies). Eglass/ polyester and E-glass/vinyl ester composites are extensively used in the marine,…

Blending the Battlefield: An Analysis of Using Private Military Companies To Support Military Operations In Iraq

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-01

journalistic, descriptive in nature rather than integrative or comparative with similar companies” and “ little elucidation of the variations in activities...for military troops is routinely tracked and reported, the data suggests there is little to no formal tracking of these incidents for PMC personnel...

Reintroducing native plants to the American West

Treesearch

Derek J. Tilley

2007-01-01

The Aberdeen PMC is working together with other team members of the Great Basin Restoration Initiative (USDI-BLM) and the Great Basin Native Plant Selection and Increase Project (USDAFS) to develop techniques to increase native plant diversity in crested wheatgrass monocultures. Since the early 1930s crested wheatgrass has been used in range seedings in the...

PubMed Central Canada: Beyond an Open Access Repository?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nariani, Rajiv

2013-01-01

PubMed Central Canada (PMC Canada) represents a partnership between the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the National Research Council's Canada Institute for Scientific and Technical Information (NRC-CISTI), and the National Library of Medicine of the US. The present study was done to gauge faculty awareness about the CIHR Policy on…

77 FR 36331 - Nineteenth Meeting: RTCA Special Committee 213, Enhanced Flight Vision Systems/Synthetic Vision...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-18

... Document--Draft DO-XXX, Minimum Aviation Performance Standards (MASPS) for an Enhanced Flight Vision System... Discussion (9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) Provide Comment Resolution of Document--Draft DO-XXX, Minimum Aviation.../Approve FRAC Draft for PMC Consideration--Draft DO- XXX, Minimum Aviation Performance Standards (MASPS...

DETERMINING COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER CONCENTRATIONS: A PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF CANDIDATE METHODOLOGIES UNDER WINTERTIME CONDITIONS

EPA Science Inventory

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 um and 10 um) mass con...

7 CFR 993.157 - Holding and delivery of reserve prunes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... determination of any such deficiency shall include application of any tolerance allowance for shrinkage in... certified report on Form PMC 5.1 “Notice of Proposed Intent to Store Reserve Prunes” which shall contain at...) the proposed date that such storage will begin. The report shall be accompanied by a signed statement...

7 CFR 993.157 - Holding and delivery of reserve prunes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... determination of any such deficiency shall include application of any tolerance allowance for shrinkage in... certified report on Form PMC 5.1 “Notice of Proposed Intent to Store Reserve Prunes” which shall contain at...) the proposed date that such storage will begin. The report shall be accompanied by a signed statement...

Electron Beam Cured Epoxy Resin Composites for High Temperature Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janke, Christopher J.; Dorsey, George F.; Havens, Stephen J.; Lopata, Vincent J.; Meador, Michael A.

1997-01-01

Electron beam curing of Polymer Matrix Composites (PMC's) is a nonthermal, nonautoclave curing process that has been demonstrated to be a cost effective and advantageous alternative to conventional thermal curing. Advantages of electron beam curing include: reduced manufacturing costs; significantly reduced curing times; improvements in part quality and performance; reduced environmental and health concerns; and improvement in material handling. In 1994 a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA), sponsored by the Department of Energy Defense Programs and 10 industrial partners, was established to advance the electron beam curing of PMC technology. Over the last several years a significant amount of effort within the CRADA has been devoted to the development and optimization of resin systems and PMCs that match the performance of thermal cured composites. This highly successful materials development effort has resulted in a board family of high performance, electron beam curable cationic epoxy resin systems possessing a wide range of excellent processing and property profiles. Hundreds of resin systems, both toughened and untoughened, offering unlimited formulation and processing flexibility have been developed and evaluated in the CRADA program.

Exploration of consumer perception of Sauvignon Blanc wines with enhanced aroma properties using two different descriptive methods.

PubMed

Lezaeta, Alvaro; Bordeu, Edmundo; Næs, Tormod; Varela, Paula

2017-09-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate consumers' perception of a complex set of stimuli as aromatically enriched wines. For that, two consumer based profiling methods were compared, concurrently run with overall liking measurements: projective mapping based on choice or preference (PM-C), a newly proposed method, and check-all-that-apply (CATA) questions with an ideal sample, a more established, consumer-based method for product optimization. Reserve bottling and regular bottling of Sauvignon Blanc wines from three wineries were aromatically enriched with natural aromas collected by condensation during wine fermentation. A total of 144 consumers were enrolled in the study. The results revealed that both consumer-based highlighted the positive effect of aromatic enrichment on consumer perception and acceptance. However, PM-C generated a very detailed description, in which consumers focused less on the sensory aspects and more on the usage, attitudes, and reasons behind their choices. Providing a deeper understanding of the drivers of liking/disliking of enriched Sauvignon Blanc wines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Semiotic indexing of digital resources

DOEpatents

Parker, Charles T; Garrity, George M

2014-12-02

A method of classifying a plurality of documents. The method includes steps of providing a first set of classification terms and a second set of classification terms, the second set of classification terms being different from the first set of classification terms; generating a first frequency array of a number of occurrences of each term from the first set of classification terms in each document; generating a second frequency array of a number of occurrences of each term from the second set of classification terms in each document; generating a first similarity matrix from the first frequency array; generating a second similarity matrix from the second frequency array; determining an entrywise combination of the first similarity matrix and the second similarity matrix; and clustering the plurality of documents based on the result of the entrywise combination.

Lexical Influences on Spoken Spondaic Word Recognition in Hearing-Impaired Patients

PubMed Central

Moulin, Annie; Richard, Céline

2015-01-01

Top-down contextual influences play a major part in speech understanding, especially in hearing-impaired patients with deteriorated auditory input. Those influences are most obvious in difficult listening situations, such as listening to sentences in noise but can also be observed at the word level under more favorable conditions, as in one of the most commonly used tasks in audiology, i.e., repeating isolated words in silence. This study aimed to explore the role of top-down contextual influences and their dependence on lexical factors and patient-specific factors using standard clinical linguistic material. Spondaic word perception was tested in 160 hearing-impaired patients aged 23–88 years with a four-frequency average pure-tone threshold ranging from 21 to 88 dB HL. Sixty spondaic words were randomly presented at a level adjusted to correspond to a speech perception score ranging between 40 and 70% of the performance intensity function obtained using monosyllabic words. Phoneme and whole-word recognition scores were used to calculate two context-influence indices (the j factor and the ratio of word scores to phonemic scores) and were correlated with linguistic factors, such as the phonological neighborhood density and several indices of word occurrence frequencies. Contextual influence was greater for spondaic words than in similar studies using monosyllabic words, with an overall j factor of 2.07 (SD = 0.5). For both indices, context use decreased with increasing hearing loss once the average hearing loss exceeded 55 dB HL. In right-handed patients, significantly greater context influence was observed for words presented in the right ears than for words presented in the left, especially in patients with many years of education. The correlations between raw word scores (and context influence indices) and word occurrence frequencies showed a significant age-dependent effect, with a stronger correlation between perception scores and word occurrence frequencies when the occurrence frequencies were based on the years corresponding to the patients' youth, showing a “historic” word frequency effect. This effect was still observed for patients with few years of formal education, but recent occurrence frequencies based on current word exposure had a stronger influence for those patients, especially for younger ones. PMID:26778945

Os incae: variation in frequency in major human population groups

PubMed Central

HANIHARA, TSUNEHIKO; ISHIDA, HAJIME

2001-01-01

The variation in frequency of the Inca bone was examined in major human populations around the world. The New World populations have generally high frequencies of the Inca bone, whereas lower frequencies occur in northeast Asians and Australians. Tibetan/Nepalese and Assam/Sikkim populations in northeast India have more Inca bones than do neighbouring populations. Among modern populations originally derived from eastern Asian population stock, the frequencies are highest in some of the marginal isolated groups. In Central and West Asia as well as in Europe, frequency of the Inca bone is relatively low. The incidence of the complete Inca bone is, moreover, very low in the western hemisphere of the Old World except for Subsaharan Africa. Subsaharan Africans show as a whole a second peak in the occurrence of the Inca bone. Geographical and ethnographical patterns of the frequency variation of the Inca bone found in this study indicate that the possible genetic background for the occurrence of this bone cannot be completely excluded. Relatively high frequencies of the Inca bone in Subsaharan Africans indicate that this trait is not a uniquely eastern Asian regional character. PMID:11273039

Differential activation of brain regions involved with error-feedback and imitation based motor simulation when observing self and an expert's actions in pilots and non-pilots on a complex glider landing task.

PubMed

Callan, Daniel E; Terzibas, Cengiz; Cassel, Daniel B; Callan, Akiko; Kawato, Mitsuo; Sato, Masa-Aki

2013-05-15

In this fMRI study we investigate neural processes related to the action observation network using a complex perceptual-motor task in pilots and non-pilots. The task involved landing a glider (using aileron, elevator, rudder, and dive brake) as close to a target as possible, passively observing a replay of one's own previous trial, passively observing a replay of an expert's trial, and a baseline do nothing condition. The objective of this study is to investigate two types of motor simulation processes used during observation of action: imitation based motor simulation and error-feedback based motor simulation. It has been proposed that the computational neurocircuitry of the cortex is well suited for unsupervised imitation based learning, whereas, the cerebellum is well suited for error-feedback based learning. Consistent with predictions, pilots (to a greater extent than non-pilots) showed significant differential activity when observing an expert landing the glider in brain regions involved with imitation based motor simulation (including premotor cortex PMC, inferior frontal gyrus IFG, anterior insula, parietal cortex, superior temporal gyrus, and middle temporal MT area) than when observing one's own previous trial which showed significant differential activity in the cerebellum (only for pilots) thought to be concerned with error-feedback based motor simulation. While there was some differential brain activity for pilots in regions involved with both Execution and Observation of the flying task (potential Mirror System sites including IFG, PMC, superior parietal lobule) the majority was adjacent to these areas (Observation Only Sites) (predominantly in PMC, IFG, and inferior parietal loblule). These regions showing greater activity for observation than for action may be involved with processes related to motor-based representational transforms that are not necessary when actually carrying out the task. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Altered Structural and Functional Connectivity in Late Preterm Preadolescence: An Anatomic Seed-Based Study of Resting State Networks Related to the Posteromedial and Lateral Parietal Cortex.

PubMed

Degnan, Andrew J; Wisnowski, Jessica L; Choi, SoYoung; Ceschin, Rafael; Bhushan, Chitresh; Leahy, Richard M; Corby, Patricia; Schmithorst, Vincent J; Panigrahy, Ashok

2015-01-01

Late preterm birth confers increased risk of developmental delay, academic difficulties and social deficits. The late third trimester may represent a critical period of development of neural networks including the default mode network (DMN), which is essential to normal cognition. Our objective is to identify functional and structural connectivity differences in the posteromedial cortex related to late preterm birth. Thirty-eight preadolescents (ages 9-13; 19 born in the late preterm period (≥32 weeks gestational age) and 19 at term) without access to advanced neonatal care were recruited from a low socioeconomic status community in Brazil. Participants underwent neurocognitive testing, 3-dimensional T1-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging and resting state functional MRI (RS-fMRI). Seed-based probabilistic diffusion tractography and RS-fMRI analyses were performed using unilateral seeds within the posterior DMN (posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus) and lateral parietal DMN (superior marginal and angular gyri). Late preterm children demonstrated increased functional connectivity within the posterior default mode networks and increased anti-correlation with the central-executive network when seeded from the posteromedial cortex (PMC). Key differences were demonstrated between PMC components with increased anti-correlation with the salience network seen only with posterior cingulate cortex seeding but not with precuneus seeding. Probabilistic tractography showed increased streamlines within the right inferior longitudinal fasciculus and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus within late preterm children while decreased intrahemispheric streamlines were also observed. No significant differences in neurocognitive testing were demonstrated between groups. Late preterm preadolescence is associated with altered functional connectivity from the PMC and lateral parietal cortex to known distributed functional cortical networks despite no significant executive neurocognitive differences. Selective increased structural connectivity was observed in the setting of decreased posterior interhemispheric connections. Future work is needed to determine if these findings represent a compensatory adaptation employing alternate neural circuitry or could reflect subtle pathology resulting in emotional processing deficits not seen with neurocognitive testing.

Particle dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea: A synthesis based on light transmission, PMC, and POC archives (1991 2001)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karageorgis, Aristomenis P.; Gardner, Wilford D.; Georgopoulos, Dimitris; Mishonov, Alexey V.; Krasakopoulou, Evangelia; Anagnostou, Christos

2008-02-01

During the last two decades light transmission (LT) data have been collected routinely in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, within the framework of several research projects. A procedure was developed to obtain beam attenuation coefficient due to particles ( cp) at 660-670 nm adjusted for variations in mid-depth 'clear' water and instrumental drifts. Data from 3146 stations occupied between 1991 and 2001 were converted to a common format for the analysis of particulate matter (PM) temporal and spatial distribution patterns. The data were separated into 'wet' (December-May) and 'dry' (June-November) periods. The horizontal distribution of beam cp at various depths revealed clearly higher values in the surface nepheloid layer (SNL) in the vicinity of river mouths during the 'wet' period, whilst the increase was negligible during the 'dry' period. In contrast, the bottom nepheloid layer (BNL; 1-10 m above bottom) appeared to be turbid throughout the year, particularly on the continental shelves receiving riverine discharge. This feature is attributed to resuspension and advection of recently deposited bottom sediments due to waves and currents. However, the Eastern Mediterranean as a whole is impoverished in PM in the water column, particularly at depths >200 m. The behavior of surface-water cp revealed a strong relationship to mesoscale dynamic features. Cyclonic eddies, which upwell nutrient-rich waters toward the surface, favor primary production, which was identified as elevated beam cp values. Beam cp was correlated with PM concentration (PMC) and particulate organic carbon (POC) concentration obtained by bottle sampling. Although there were regional differences in the correlations, no significant seasonal variations were observed. Two generic equations were generated that can be used for a first-order estimate of PMC and POC from historical LT measurements conducted in the area, provided that data are handled according to the proposed methodology.

WE-AB-204-09: Respiratory Motion Correction in 4D-PET by Simultaneous Motion Estimation and Image Reconstruction (SMEIR)

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

Kalantari, F; Wang, J; Li, T

2015-06-15

Purpose: In conventional 4D-PET, images from different frames are reconstructed individually and aligned by registration methods. Two issues with these approaches are: 1) Reconstruction algorithms do not make full use of all projections statistics; and 2) Image registration between noisy images can Result in poor alignment. In this study we investigated the use of simultaneous motion estimation and image reconstruction (SMEIR) method for cone beam CT for motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET. Methods: Modified ordered-subset expectation maximization algorithm coupled with total variation minimization (OSEM- TV) is used to obtain a primary motion-compensated PET (pmc-PET) from all projection data using Demons derivedmore » deformation vector fields (DVFs) as initial. Motion model update is done to obtain an optimal set of DVFs between the pmc-PET and other phases by matching the forward projection of the deformed pmc-PET and measured projections of other phases. Using updated DVFs, OSEM- TV image reconstruction is repeated and new DVFs are estimated based on updated images. 4D XCAT phantom with typical FDG biodistribution and a 10mm diameter tumor was used to evaluate the performance of the SMEIR algorithm. Results: Image quality of 4D-PET is greatly improved by the SMEIR algorithm. When all projections are used to reconstruct a 3D-PET, motion blurring artifacts are present, leading to a more than 5 times overestimation of the tumor size and 54% tumor to lung contrast ratio underestimation. This error reduced to 37% and 20% for post reconstruction registration methods and SMEIR respectively. Conclusion: SMEIR method can be used for motion estimation/correction in 4D-PET. The statistics is greatly improved since all projection data are combined together to update the image. The performance of the SMEIR algorithm for 4D-PET is sensitive to smoothness control parameters in the DVF estimation step.« less

Particle sources over the Danube River delta, Black Sea based on distribution, composition and size using optics, imaging and bulk analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karageorgis, A. P.; Gardner, W. D.; Mikkelsen, O. A.; Georgopoulos, D.; Ogston, A. S.; Assimakopoulou, G.; Krasakopoulou, E.; Oaie, Gh.; Secrieru, D.; Kanellopoulos, Th. D.; Pagou, K.; Anagnostou, Ch.; Papathanassiou, E.

2014-03-01

Optical measurements provide substantial information on the dynamics and composition of particulate matter in the open ocean and coastal waters. When calibrated with the analysis of simultaneously collected discrete bottle samples, (particulate matter concentration: PMC, particulate organic carbon concentration: POC, chlorophyll α concentration: chl α, particle volume concentration and particle size distribution measured in situ), optical proxies increase the vertical resolution of changes in particle properties in the water column. We report relationships of inherent optical properties (beam attenuation at 2 wavelengths, fluorescence) and bulk particle properties obtained in the NW Black Sea during October 2007. The Danube River delta area was heavily stratified at that time, mainly due to a sharp thermocline at 17-27 m. Beam cp and fluorescence were significantly correlated and showed highest values near the coast, with a decreasing trend offshore. In situ measured particle size distributions were characterized by modes at ~ 40 μm, 20 μm and 5 μm. PMC, POC, and chl α exhibited wide ranges of spatial variation, a common feature being the gradual decrease in concentrations from the coast to offshore. The POC:PMC and POC:chl α ratios suggested a general predominance of biogenic material over terrigenous particles throughout the study area. The commonly accepted sequence of large phytoplanktonic species transitioning to smaller ones during summer-autumn was confirmed by light microscopy and SEM observations. Detritus of Chaetoceros sp. and other diatoms was the dominant component of particulate matter. The small percentage of terrigenous particles was surprising given the high riverine sediment loads suggesting that most of the sediment load flocculated and was deposited before reaching the delta. Given the lack of previous data in this area, our study may serve as a baseline or background to look for changes in future bio-optical and/or biogeochemical measurements.

Temporal evolution of near-surface chlorophyll over cyclonic eddy lifecycles in the southeastern Pacific

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Jie; Xu, Fanghua; Zhou, Kuanbo; Xiu, Peng; Lin, Yanluan

2017-08-01

Temporal evolution of near-surface chlorophyll (CHL) associated with mesoscale eddies over entire eddy lifespan is complicated. Based on satellite measurements and a reanalysis data set, we identify and quantify major temporal and spatial CHL responses in cyclonic eddies in the southeastern Pacific, and explore the associated mechanisms. Only few temporal CHL variations can be directly linked to the four primary mechanisms: "eddy pumping," "eddy trapping," "eddy stirring," and "eddy-induced Ekman pumping." About 80% of the temporal CHL variations are too complex to be explained by a single mechanism. Five characteristic CHL responses, including classic dipoles (CD), positive-dominant dipoles (PD), negative-dominant dipoles (ND), positive monopoles (PM), and negative monopoles (NM) are identified using the self-organizing map (SOM). CD, a dominant response induced primarily by "eddy stirring," has a continued increasing of frequency of occurrence with time, although its contribution to the total CHL variability remains low. As the secondary prominent response, NM has two peaks of frequency of occurrence at eddy formation and maturation stages, mainly accounted by "eddy trapping" after eddy breakup and "eddy-induced Ekman pumping," respectively. The sum of frequency of occurrence of PD and PM are comparable to that of NM. The initial positive CHL at eddy formation stage is associated with "eddy trapping." The significant positive CHL increase from the eddy intensification to early decay stage is mainly attributed to "eddy pumping." Although the frequency of occurrence of ND is the smallest, its contribution to negative CHL anomalies is unnegligible.

The Polar Mesopause Sulfate Aerosol Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, M. J.; Toon, O. B.; Thomas, G.; Solomon, S.

2001-05-01

Noctilucent ("night-luminous") clouds (NLC), or as seen from space, Polar Mesospheric Clouds (PMC), are typically 1 to 2 km thick and located at altitudes of 80 to 85 km, where the temperature is near 150K. NLC generally occur between 50 degrees latitude to the pole from May to August in the Northern Hemisphere, with occasional sightings at lower latitudes. An extraordinary low-latitude sighting occurred on June 21, 1999 at 41oN. Direct evidence that PMC are composed of water ice was recently reported from satellite observations made in the near infrared. The formation of ice clouds in the upper atmosphere has been studied extensively as a result of the role of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSC) in polar ozone depletion. There exists ample evidence that preexisting stratospheric liquid sulfate aerosol plays an important role in the formation of solid PSC particles. Until recent laboratory measurements showed otherwise, however, it was believed that photolysis of sulfuric acid in the upper stratosphere would prevent the formation of such aerosol in the mesosphere. We present here calculations from a microphysical atmospheric model which point to sulfate from volcanic and non-volcanic sources alike as the origin of nuclei on which PMC and NLC form. Current theories have relied on meteor 'smoke' particles arising from meteor ablation and recondensation to explain the nucleation of NLC/PMC ice particles. Our calculated sizes and concentrations of high latitude summer mesosphere sulfate aerosol particles are comparable to or exceed those expected of the meteor source. The model shows that large volcanic eruptions will add significantly to this particle population, several years following the injection. The record of the number of NLC sightings in response to large volcanic eruptions is contradictory. However, microphysical models show that injections of particles may result in positive, negative or neutral response in the visual brightness of NLC, depending on sulfur, water vapor, and particulate injections, which have not been observed in the past A related radar phenomenon, Polar Mesopheric Summertime Echoes (PMSE), involves attachment of free electrons to condensates near the mesopause. Theory predicts that such particles would have to be smaller than 10 nm and number in the thousands per cm3. Up to now they were believed to be composed of water-ice. However these intense radar echoes have been detected as far south as 52N, where the mesopause is normally too warm for water-ice saturation, but in the range of sulfuric-acid condensation. We calculate mesospheric sulfate aerosol concentrations of up to 12000 /cm3, the vast majority of which are smaller than 10 nm. The concentration, size, and seasonal and latitudinal distribution of sulfate aerosol corresponds well to PMSE theory and observations.

Brain effective connectivity during motor-imagery and execution following stroke and rehabilitation

PubMed Central

Bajaj, Sahil; Butler, Andrew J.; Drake, Daniel; Dhamala, Mukesh

2015-01-01

Brain areas within the motor system interact directly or indirectly during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks. These interactions and their functionality can change following stroke and recovery. How brain network interactions reorganize and recover their functionality during recovery and treatment following stroke are not well understood. To contribute to answering these questions, we recorded blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals from 10 stroke survivors and evaluated dynamical causal modeling (DCM)-based effective connectivity among three motor areas: primary motor cortex (M1), pre-motor cortex (PMC) and supplementary motor area (SMA), during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks. We compared the connectivity between affected and unaffected hemispheres before and after mental practice and combined mental practice and physical therapy as treatments. The treatment (intervention) period varied in length between 14 to 51 days but all patients received the same dose of 60 h of treatment. Using Bayesian model selection (BMS) approach in the DCM approach, we found that, after intervention, the same network dominated during motor-imagery and motor-execution tasks but modulatory parameters suggested a suppressive influence of SM A on M1 during the motor-imagery task whereas the influence of SM A on M1 was unrestricted during the motor-execution task. We found that the intervention caused a reorganization of the network during both tasks for unaffected as well as for the affected hemisphere. Using Bayesian model averaging (BMA) approach, we found that the intervention improved the regional connectivity among the motor areas during both the tasks. The connectivity between PMC and M1 was stronger in motor-imagery tasks whereas the connectivity from PMC to M1, SM A to M1 dominated in motor-execution tasks. There was significant behavioral improvement (p = 0.001) in sensation and motor movements because of the intervention as reflected by behavioral Fugl-Meyer (FMA) measures, which were significantly correlated (p = 0.05) with a subset of connectivity. These findings suggest that PMC and M1 play a crucial role during motor-imagery as well as during motor-execution task. In addition, M1 causes more exchange of causal information among motor areas during a motor-execution task than during a motor-imagery task due to its interaction with SM A. This study expands our understanding of motor network involved during two different tasks, which are commonly used during rehabilitation following stroke. A clear understanding of the effective connectivity networks leads to a better treatment in helping stroke survivors regain motor ability. PMID:26236627

Brain Tumors: The Influence of Tumor Type and Routine MR Imaging Characteristics at BOLD Functional MR Imaging in the Primary Motor Gyrus

PubMed Central

Fraga de Abreu, Vitor Hugo; Peck, Kyung K.; Petrovich-Brennan, Nicole M.; Woo, Kaitlin M.

2016-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the effects of histologic features and anatomic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging characteristics of brain tumors on the functional MR imaging signal in the primary motor cortex (PMC), as false-negative blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) functional MR imaging activation can limit the accurate localization of eloquent cortices. Materials and Methods Institutional review board approval was obtained, and informed consent was waived for this HIPAA-compliant retrospective study. It comprised 63 patients referred between 2006 and 2014 for preoperative functional MR imaging localization of the Rolandic cortex. The patients had glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) (n = 20), metastasis (n = 21), or meningioma (n = 22). The volumes of functional MR imaging activation were measured during performance of a bilateral hand motor task. Ratios of functional MR imaging activation were normalized to PMC volume. Statistical analysis was performed for the following: (a) differences between hemispheres within each histologic tumor type (paired Wilcoxon test), (b) differences across tumor types (Kruskal-Wallis and Fisher tests), (c) pairwise tests between tumor types (Mann-Whitney U test), (d) relationships between fast fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) data and enhancement volume with activation (Spearman rank correlation coefficient), and (e) differences in activation volumes by tumor location (Mann-Whitney U test). Results A significant interhemispheric difference was found between the activation volumes in GBMs (mean, 511.43 voxels ± 307.73 [standard deviation] and 330.78 voxels ± 278.95; P < .01) but not in metastases (504.68 voxels ± 220.98 and 460.22 voxels ± 276.83; P = .15) or meningiomas (424.07 voxels ± 247.58 and 415.18 voxels ± 222.36; P = .85). GBMs showed significantly lower activation ratios (median, 0.49; range, 0.04–1.15) than metastases (median, 0.79; range, 0.28–1.66; P = .043) and meningiomas (median, 0.91; range, 0.52–2.05; P < .01). There was a moderate correlation with the volumes of FLAIR abnormality in metastases (ρ = −0.50) and meningiomas (ρ = −0.55). Enhancement volume (ρ = −0.11) and tumor distance from the PMC (median, 0.73 and range, 0.04–2.05 for near and median, 0.82 and range, 0.39–1.66 for far; P = .14) did not influence activation. Conclusion BOLD functional MR imaging activation in the ipsilateral PMC is influenced by tumor type and is significantly reduced in GBMs. FLAIR abnormality correlates moderately with the activation ratios in metastases and meningiomas. © RSNA, 2016 Online supplemental material is available for this article. PMID:27383533

[Variable magnetic fields in the treatment of tics disorders - preliminary results].

PubMed

Pasek, Jarosław; Jędrzejewska, Anna; Jagodziński, Leszek; Obuchowicz, Anna; Flak, Maria; Sieroń, Aleksander

Tics disorders is frequent pathological syndrome, particularly typical for children's age. The symptoms of this disease are differential, and their intensification individualized, which makes difficult unique recognition. Tics disorders concern the most often the muscles of face, head, upper limbs and trunk. The study group consisted of 16 patients (11 boys and 5 girls) with tics complex disorders about unknown etiology particularly relating of face and upper limbs muscles. In the treatment were the interventions with use a magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation applied. The procedures were ones daily by 3 weeks in two series executed. It author's pool was the frequency of occurrence tics disorders as well as the proportional opinion of effectiveness conducted treatment estimated. After 10 weeks in 14 patients was the decrease of occurrence frequency involuntary movements observed, in proportional scale about 75%. The results of subjective opinion of mood showed, that decrease the frequency tics disorders had in all children the direct shift on improvement their mood, and also satisfaction in their parents. The use of variable magnetic fields influenced on decrease the occurrence frequency tics disorders, and also on improvement quality of life the treated patients.

[Variable magnetic fields in the treatment of tics disorders - preliminary results].

PubMed

Pasek, Jarosław; Jędrzejewska, Anna; Jagodziński, Leszek; Obuchowicz, Anna; Flak, Maria; Sieroń, Aleksander

2016-01-01

Tics disorders is frequent pathological syndrome, particularly typical for children's age. The symptoms of this disease are differential, and their intensification individualized, which makes difficult unique recognition. Tics disorders concern the most often the muscles of face, head, upper limbs and trunk. The study group consisted of 16 patients (11 boys and 5 girls) with tics complex disorders about unknown etiology particularly relating of face and upper limbs muscles. In the treatment were the interventions with use a magnetotherapy and magnetostimulation applied. The procedures were ones daily by 3 weeks in two series executed. It author's pool was the frequency of occurrence tics disorders as well as the proportional opinion of effectiveness conducted treatment estimated. After 10 weeks in 14 patients was the decrease of occurrence frequency involuntary movements observed, in proportional scale about 75%. The results of subjective opinion of mood showed, that decrease the frequency tics disorders had in all children the direct shift on improvement their mood, and also satisfaction in their parents. The use of variable magnetic fields influenced on decrease the occurrence frequency tics disorders, and also on improvement quality of life the treated patients.

Drinking Context and Intimate Partner Violence: Evidence From the California Community Health Study of Couples

PubMed Central

Cunradi, Carol B.; Mair, Christina; Todd, Michael; Remer, Lillian

2012-01-01

Objective: Couples in which one or both partners is a heavy or problem drinker are at elevated risk for intimate partner violence (IPV), yet little is known about the extent to which each partner’s drinking in different contexts (volume consumed per setting in bars, parties, at home, or in public places) increases the likelihood that partner aggression will occur. This study examined associations between the volume consumed in different settings by each partner and the occurrence and frequency of IPV. Method: We obtained a geographic sample of married or cohabiting couples residing in 50 medium to large California cities. Cross-sectional survey data were collected via confidential telephone interviews (60% response rate). Logistic and negative binomial regression analyses were based on 1,585 couples who provided information about past-12-month IPV, drinking contexts (number of times attended, proportion of drinking occasions when attended, average number of drinks), frequency of intoxication, and psychosocial and demographic factors. Drinking context–IPV associations for each partner were adjusted for the other partner’s volume for that context and other covariates. Results: Male partner’s volume per setting for bars and parks or public places was associated with the occurrence and frequency of male-to-female IPV and female-to-male IPV. Male’s volume per setting for quiet evening at home was associated with the occurrence of female-to-male IPV; female partner’s volume for this setting was associated with the frequency of male-to-female IPV and female-to-male IPV. Conclusions: Among couples in the general population, each partner’s drinking in certain contexts is an independent risk factor for the occurrence and frequency of partner aggression. PMID:22846237

Contaminant Occurrence and Related Data for Six-Year Review of Drinking Water Standards

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Learn about data EPA collects to conduct the Six-Year Review of National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. The data allows EPA to characterize frequency of occurrence, the levels found, and the geographic distribution of contaminants in drinking water.

Characterizing Arctic mixed-phase cloud structure and its relationship with humidity and temperature inversion using ARM NSA observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Shaoyue; Dong, Xiquan; Xi, Baike; Li, J.-L. F.

2015-08-01

In this study, the characteristics of the Arctic mixed-phase cloud (AMC) have been investigated using data collected at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement North Slope Alaska site from October 2006 to September 2009. AMC has an annual occurrence frequency of 42.3%, which includes 18.7% of single-layered AMCs and 23.6% for multiple layers. Two cloud base heights (CBHs) are defined from ceilometer and micropulse lidar (MPL) measurements. For single-layered AMC, the ceilometer-derived CBH represents the base of the liquid-dominant layer near the cloud top, while MPL-derived CBH represents base of the lower ice-dominant layer. The annual mean CBHs from ceilometer and MPL measurements are 1.0 km and 0.6 km, respectively, with the largest difference ( 1.0 km) occurring from December to March and the smallest difference in September. The humidity inversion occurrence decreases with increasing humidity inversion intensity (stronger in summer than in winter). During the winter months, AMC occurrences increase from 15% to 35% when the inversion intensity increases from 0.1 to 0.9 g/kg. On the contrary, despite a higher frequency of strong humidity inversion in summer, AMC occurrences are nearly invariant for different inversion intensities. On average, humidity and temperature inversion frequencies of occurrence above an AMC are 5 and 8 times, respectively, as high as those below an AMC. The strong inversion occurrences for both humidity and temperature above an AMC provide the moisture sources from above for the formation and maintenance of AMCs. This result helps to reconcile the persistency of AMCs even when the Arctic surface is covered by snow and ice.

Characterizing Arctic mixed-phase cloud structure and its relationship with humidity and temperature inversion using ARM NSA observations

DOE PAGES

Qiu, Shaoyue; Dong, Xiquan; Xi, Baike; ...

2015-07-20

In this work, the characteristics of the Arctic mixed-phase cloud (AMC) have been investigated using data collected at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement North Slope Alaska site from October 2006 to September 2009. AMC has an annual occurrence frequency of 42.3%, which includes 18.7% of single-layered AMCs and 23.6% for multiple layers. Two cloud base heights (CBHs) are defined from ceilometer and micropulse lidar (MPL) measurements. For single-layered AMC, the ceilometer-derived CBH represents the base of the liquid-dominant layer near the cloud top, while MPL-derived CBH represents base of the lower ice-dominant layer. The annual mean CBHs from ceilometer and MPLmore » measurements are 1.0 km and 0.6 km, respectively, with the largest difference (~1.0 km) occurring from December to March and the smallest difference in September. The humidity inversion occurrence decreases with increasing humidity inversion intensity (stronger in summer than in winter). During the winter months, AMC occurrences increase from 15% to 35% when the inversion intensity increases from 0.1 to 0.9 g/kg. On the contrary, despite a higher frequency of strong humidity inversion in summer, AMC occurrences are nearly invariant for different inversion intensities. On average, humidity and temperature inversion frequencies of occurrence above an AMC are 5 and 8 times, respectively, as high as those below an AMC. The strong inversion occurrences for both humidity and temperature above an AMC provide the moisture sources from above for the formation and maintenance of AMCs. In conclusion, this result helps to reconcile the persistency of AMCs even when the Arctic surface is covered by snow and ice.« less

The co-occurrence of aggression and self-harm: systematic literature review.

PubMed

O'Donnell, Orla; House, Allan; Waterman, Mitch

2015-04-01

Epidemiological research supports an association between aggression and self-harm through data on the frequency with which individuals exhibit both behaviours. Unbiased evidence, however, is needed to draw conclusions about the nature and extent of co-occurrence. Systematic review of published studies was undertaken to evaluate whether or not the frequency with which aggression and self-harm co-occur is beyond that which would be expected by chance. Outcome measures included: (a) between-group differences on a standardised aggression/self-harm measure - the groups defined by scores on a measure of the other behaviour; (b) correlations between the two behaviours; (c) co-occurrence rates in populations defined by the presence of either behaviour; (d) co-occurrence rates in populations not defined by either behaviour. Odds ratios were calculated for studies presenting complete frequency data. 123 studies, some yielding more than one type of result, met the inclusion criteria. Most case-control studies found elevated levels of aggression in self-harming populations (or self-harm in aggressive populations) compared to controls. The majority of correlational, co-occurrence rate, and odds ratio data found aggression and self-harm to be associated. Results were subject to descriptive synthesis only and thus, unable to report an overall effect size. Evidence suggests that aggression and self-harm frequently co-occur. Such evidence necessitates more theoretical discussion and associated research on the source and nature of co-occurrence. Nonetheless, individuals who present with one behaviour may be considered an 'at-risk' group in terms of exhibiting the other. Such evidence holds implications for practice (e.g. risk assessment). Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Joint estimation of habitat dynamics and species interactions: disturbance reduces co-occurrence of non-native predators with an endangered toad.

PubMed

Miller, David A W; Brehme, Cheryl S; Hines, James E; Nichols, James D; Fisher, Robert N

2012-11-01

1. Ecologists have long been interested in the processes that determine patterns of species occurrence and co-occurrence. Potential short-comings of many existing empirical approaches that address these questions include a reliance on patterns of occurrence at a single time point, failure to account properly for imperfect detection and treating the environment as a static variable. 2. We fit detection and non-detection data collected from repeat visits using a dynamic site occupancy model that simultaneously accounts for the temporal dynamics of a focal prey species, its predators and its habitat. Our objective was to determine how disturbance and species interactions affect the co-occurrence probabilities of an endangered toad and recently introduced non-native predators in stream breeding habitats. For this, we determined statistical support for alternative processes that could affect co-occurrence frequency in the system. 3. We collected occurrence data at stream segments in two watersheds where streams were largely ephemeral and one watershed dominated by perennial streams. Co-occurrence probabilities of toads with non-native predators were related to disturbance frequency, with low co-occurrence in the ephemeral watershed and high co-occurrence in the perennial watershed. This occurred because once predators were established at a site, they were rarely lost from the site except in cases when the site dried out. Once dry sites became suitable again, toads colonized them much more rapidly than predators, creating a period of predator-free space. 4. We attribute the dynamics to a storage effect, where toads persisting outside the stream environment during periods of drought rapidly colonized sites when they become suitable again. Our results support that even in highly connected stream networks, temporal disturbance can structure frequencies with which breeding amphibians encounter non-native predators. 5. Dynamic multi-state occupancy models are a powerful tool for rigorously examining hypotheses about inter-species and species-habitat interactions. In contrast to previous methods that infer dynamic processes based on static patterns in occupancy, the approach we took allows the dynamic processes that determine species-species and species-habitat interactions to be directly estimated. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Animal Ecology © 2012 British Ecological Society.

Role of dietary habits and diet in caries occurrence and severity among urban adolescent school children.

PubMed

Punitha, V C; Amudhan, A; Sivaprakasam, P; Rathanaprabu, V

2015-04-01

To identify the role of dietary habits (type of diet, skipping meals, snacking in-between meals and frequency of visits to fast food restaurants) in caries occurrence and severity. To explore the correlation between frequency of intake of selected foods and dental caries. A cross-sectional study was carried out on adolescent children (n = 916) of age 13-19, following a two-stage random sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested questionnaire. Questionnaire included demographic details, dietary habits of children and food frequency table that listed selected food items. The dependent variable-dental caries was measured using the decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) index. The prevalence of dental caries in this study population was 36.7% (95% confidence interval: 33.58-39.82). The mean DMFT was 1.01 (±1.74). No statistically significant difference found between caries occurrence and type of diet (P = 0.07), skipping meals (P = 0.86), frequency of eating in fast food stalls (0.86) and snacking in between meals (0.08). Mean DMFT values were higher among nonvegetarians and among children who had the habit of snacking in between meals. Frequency of intake of selected food items showed that mean frequency intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery was higher among children who presented with caries when compared to caries-free children (P = 0.000). Significant correlation found between mean DMFT and mean frequency intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery. Odds ratios were calculated for the same for frequency ≥4 times/day for confectionery and ≥4/week for carbonated drinks and results discussed. Frequent intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery is harmful to oral health that eventually reflects on general health. Educating the adolescent children on healthy dietary habits should be put in the forefront.

Trading Places: Measurement and Analysis in the Eyes of the Acquirer and the Supplier

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

task completed Days late = actual start - plan start if task in progress • Reference models: CMMI, SA CMM, IEEE/ ISO 12207 • Leverage CMMI capabilities...IEEE/ ISO 12207 • Leverage CMMI capabilities built in engineering: MA, REQM, RD, CAR • Aim for CMMI capability in selected PAs: SAM, DAR, RSK, PP/PMC

Seed production and field establishment of hoary tansyaster (Machaeranthera canescens)

Treesearch

Derek J. Tilley

2015-01-01

The USDA NRCS Aberdeen Plant Materials Center (PMC) produces certified early generation seed of hoary tansyaster (Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) A. Gray [Asteraceae]), a late summer and fall blooming forb native to the Intermountain West region. Hoary tansyaster is an excellent forb candidate for restoration efforts in arid to semiarid sites. It is relatively easy to...

Effectiveness and Efficiencies of Private Military Corporations

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

generalize. While some private military corporations provide direct combat services , others provide ancillary services —such as laundry and food...collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington headquarters Services , Directorate for Information...for traditional military forces. The PMC consists of a for profit firm that provides military services that range from combat operations to training

New York Downtown Manhattan (Wall Street) Heliport - Operations Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-01

Unicorn World Coord. E,NJ Stat Police G -Union Pacific ENorl Air- A Unisys ENVI Corp. E Universal Television ENY Helicopters A US Air Force M_NY Air E US...Yonkers construction E 4Phillip Morris E Phillips Aviation E Phipps E Pioneer Valley E Pitcairn Finance U PMC U PNN Helicopter U Prime Production E PSE&G

Temperature Tunable Air-Gap Etalon Filter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krainak, Michael A.; Stephen, Mark A.; Lunt, David L.

1998-01-01

We report on experimental measurements of a temperature tuned air-gap etalon filter. The filter exhibits temperature dependent wavelength tuning of 54 pm/C. It has a nominal center wavelength of 532 nm. The etalon filter has a 27 pm optical bandpass and 600 pm free spectral range (finesse approximately 22). The experimental results are in close agreement with etalon theory.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF EPA'S PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF FEDERAL REFERENCE METHODS AND FEDERAL EQUIVALENT METHODS FOR COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER

EPA Science Inventory

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 µm and 10 µm) ...

PMC's Florida Bay & Adjacent Marine Systems Science Program

Science.gov Websites

Florida Bay and Adjacent Marine Systems Science Program Inverted image, click link below to view actual image and caption click to display actual image and caption Program Overview Management & - January 2002 >For more, click here to view the What's New Page... | Main | Overview | Management &

DETERMINING COARSE PARTICULATE MATTER CONCENTRATIONS: A PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF CANDIDATE METHODOLOGIES - STUDY DESIGN AND RESULTS FROM THE RTP EQUIPMENT SHAKEDOWN

EPA Science Inventory

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of candidate sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 um and 10 um...

Influence of Kohn singularity on the occurrence scattering time in degenerate quantum collisional plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Myoung-Jae; Jung, Young-Dae

2017-10-01

The influence of Kohn singularity on the occurrence scattering time for the electron-ion interaction is investigated in degenerate quantum collisional plasmas. The first-order eikonal analysis is used to obtain the scattering amplitude and the occurrence scattering time. The result shows that the Friedel oscillation due to the Kohn singularity suppresses the advance phenomena of occurrence scattering time in both forward and backward scattering domains. It is shown that the increase of plasmon energy would reduce the time advance for both forward and backward scattering domains. However, the increase of Fermi energy would enhance the phenomena of time advance. It is also found that the time advance with high collision frequency is larger than that with low collision frequency for the forward scattering domain and vice versa for the backward scattering domain. We have shown that the time advance is stronger in general for the forward scattering domain than that for the backward scattering domain.

[Drivers of human-caused fire occurrence and its variation trend under climate change in the Great Xing'an Mountains, Northeast China].

PubMed

Li, Shun; Wu, Zhi Wei; Liang, Yu; He, Hong Shi

2017-01-01

The Great Xing'an Mountains are an important boreal forest region in China with high frequency of fire occurrences. With climate change, this region may have a substantial change in fire frequency. Building the relationship between spatial pattern of human-caused fire occurrence and its influencing factors, and predicting the spatial patterns of human-caused fires under climate change scenarios are important for fire management and carbon balance in boreal forests. We employed a spatial point pattern model to explore the relationship between the spatial pattern of human-caused fire occurrence and its influencing factors based on a database of historical fire records (1967-2006) in the Great Xing'an Mountains. The fire occurrence time was used as dependent variable. Nine abiotic (annual temperature and precipitation, elevation, aspect, and slope), biotic (vegetation type), and human factors (distance to the nearest road, road density, and distance to the nearest settlement) were selected as explanatory variables. We substituted the climate scenario data (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) for the current climate data to predict the future spatial patterns of human-caused fire occurrence in 2050. Our results showed that the point pattern progress (PPP) model was an effective tool to predict the future relationship between fire occurrence and its spatial covariates. The climatic variables might significantly affect human-caused fire occurrence, while vegetation type, elevation and human variables were important predictors of human-caused fire occurrence. The human-caused fire occurrence probability was expected to increase in the south of the area, and the north and the area along the main roads would also become areas with high human-caused fire occurrence. The human-caused fire occurrence would increase by 72.2% under the RCP 2.6 scenario and by 166.7% under the RCP 8.5 scenario in 2050. Under climate change scenarios, the spatial patterns of human-caused fires were mainly influenced by the climate and human factors.

Frequency, Contingency and Online Processing of Multiword Sequences: An Eye-Tracking Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yi, Wei; Lu, Shiyi; Ma, Guojie

2017-01-01

Frequency and contingency are two primary statistical factors that drive the acquisition and processing of language. This study explores the role of phrasal frequency and contingency (the co-occurrence probability/statistical association of the constituent words in multiword sequences) during online processing of multiword sequences. Meanwhile, it…

Statistics of co-occurring keywords in confined text messages on Twitter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mathiesen, J.; Angheluta, L.; Jensen, M. H.

2014-09-01

Online social media such as the micro-blogging site Twitter has become a rich source of real-time data on online human behaviors. Here we analyze the occurrence and co-occurrence frequency of keywords in user posts on Twitter. From the occurrence rate of major international brand names, we provide examples of predictions of brand-user behaviors. From the co-occurrence rates, we further analyze the user-perceived relationships between international brand names and construct the corresponding relationship networks. In general the user activity on Twitter is highly intermittent and we show that the occurrence rate of brand names forms a highly correlated time signal.

Smoked aluminum track stations record flying squirrel occurrence

Treesearch

Martin G. Raphael; Cathy A. Taylor; Reginald H. Barrett

1986-01-01

Smoked aluminum track stations are a useful technique for studying patterns of abundance and distribution of northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus). They are easily transported to remote field sites, allow permanent preservation of tracks, and yield frequency-of-occurrence information. A study in Douglas-fir (Pseseudotsuga menziesii...

Mimological Reveries? Disconfirming the Hypothesis of Phono-Emotional Iconicity in Poetry

PubMed Central

Kraxenberger, Maria; Menninghaus, Winfried

2016-01-01

The present study retested previously reported empirical evidence suggesting an iconic relation between sound and emotional meaning in poetry. To this end, we analyzed the frequency of certain phoneme classes in 48 German poems and correlated them with ratings for emotional classification. Our analyses provide evidence for a link between the emotional classification of poems (joyful vs. sad) and the perception of tonal contrast as reflected in the attribution of phenomenological sound qualia (bright vs. dark). However, we could not confirm any of the previous hypotheses and findings regarding either a connection between the frequencies of occurrence of specific vowel classes and the perception of tonal contrast, or a relation between the frequencies of occurrence of consonant classes and emotional classification. PMID:27895614

Surface-Based Observations of Contrail Occurrence Over the US, Apr. 1993 to Apr. 1994

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minnis, Patrick; Ayers, J. Kirk; Weaver, Steven P.

1997-01-01

Surface observers stationed at 19 U.S. Air Force Bases and Army Air Stations recorded the daytime occurrence of contrails and cloud fraction on an hourly basis for the period April 1993 through April 1994. Each observation uses one of four main categories to report contrails as unobserved, non-persistent, persistent, and indeterminate. Additional classification includes the co-occurrence of cirrus with each report. The data cover much of the continental U.S. including locations near major commercial air routes. The mean annual frequency of occurrence in unobstructed viewing conditions is 13 percent for these sites. Contrail occurrence varied substantially with location and season. Most contrails occurred during the winter months and least during the summer with a pronounced minimum during July. Although nocturnal observations are not available, it appears that the contrails have a diurnal variation that peaks during mid morning over most areas. Contrails were most often observed in areas near major commercial air corridors and least often over areas far removed from the heaviest air traffic. A significant correlation exists between mean contrail frequency and aircraft fuel usage above 7 km suggesting predictive potential for assessing future contrail effects on climate.

Modeling utilization distributions in space and time

USGS Publications Warehouse

Keating, K.A.; Cherry, S.

2009-01-01

W. Van Winkle defined the utilization distribution (UD) as a probability density that gives an animal's relative frequency of occurrence in a two-dimensional (x, y) plane. We extend Van Winkle's work by redefining the UD as the relative frequency distribution of an animal's occurrence in all four dimensions of space and time. We then describe a product kernel model estimation method, devising a novel kernel from the wrapped Cauchy distribution to handle circularly distributed temporal covariates, such as day of year. Using Monte Carlo simulations of animal movements in space and time, we assess estimator performance. Although not unbiased, the product kernel method yields models highly correlated (Pearson's r - 0.975) with true probabilities of occurrence and successfully captures temporal variations in density of occurrence. In an empirical example, we estimate the expected UD in three dimensions (x, y, and t) for animals belonging to each of two distinct bighorn sheep {Ovis canadensis) social groups in Glacier National Park, Montana, USA. Results show the method can yield ecologically informative models that successfully depict temporal variations in density of occurrence for a seasonally migratory species. Some implications of this new approach to UD modeling are discussed. ?? 2009 by the Ecological Society of America.

Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Preferential Flow Occurrence in the Shale Hills Catchment: From the Hillslope to the Catchment Scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, H.; Lin, H.

2013-12-01

Understanding temporal and spatial patterns of preferential flow (PF) occurrence is important in revealing hillslope and catchment hydrologic and biogeochemical processes. Quantitative assessment of the frequency and control of PF occurrence in the field, however, has been limited, especially at the landscape scale of hillslope and catchment. By using 5.5-years' (2007-2012) real-time soil moisture at 10 sites response to 323 precipitation events, we tested the temporal consistency of PF occurrence at the hillslope scale in the forested Shale Hills Catchment; and by using 25 additional sites with at least 1-year data (2011-2012), we evaluated the spatial patterns of PF occurrence across the catchment. To explore the potential effects of PF occurrence on catchment hydrology, wavelet analysis was performed on the recorded time series of hydrological signals (i.e., precipitation, soil moisture, catchment discharge). Considerable temporal consistence was observed in both the frequency and the main controls of PF occurrence at the hillslope scale, which was attributed largely to the statistical stability of precipitation pattern over the monitoring period and the relatively stable subsurface preferential pathways. Preferential flow tended to occur more often in response to intense rainfall events, and favored the conditions at dry hilltop or wet valley floor sites. When upscaling to the entire catchment, topographic control on the PF occurrence was amplified remarkably, leading to the identification of a subsurface PF network in the catchment. Higher frequency of PF occurrence was observed at the valley floor (average 48%), hilltop (average 46%), and swales/hillslopes near the stream (average 40%), while the hillslopes in the eastern part of the catchment were least likely to experience PF (0-20%). No clear relationship, however, was observed between terrain attributes and PF occurrence, because the initiation and persistency of PF in this catchment was controlled jointly by complex interactions among landform units, soil types, initial soil moisture, precipitation features, and season. Through the wavelet method (coherence spectrum and phase differences), dual-pore filtering effects of soil system were proven, rendering it possible to further infer characteristic properties of the underlying hydrological processes in the subsurface. We found that preferential flow dominates the catchment discharge response at short-time periods (< 3 days), while the matrix flow may dominate the discharge response at the time scales of around 10-12 days. The temporal and spatial patterns of PF occurrence revealed in this study can help advance the modeling and prediction of complex PF dynamics in this and other similar landscapes.

Debris flow occurrence and sediment persistence, Upper Colorado River Valley, CO

USGS Publications Warehouse

Grimsley, Kyle J; Rathburn, Sara L.; Friedman, Jonathan M.; Mangano, Joseph F.

2016-01-01

Debris flow magnitudes and frequencies are compared across the Upper Colorado River valley to assess influences on debris flow occurrence and to evaluate valley geometry effects on sediment persistence. Dendrochronology, field mapping, and aerial photographic analysis are used to evaluate whether a 19th century earthen, water-conveyance ditch has altered the regime of debris flow occurrence in the Colorado River headwaters. Identifying any shifts in disturbance processes or changes in magnitudes and frequencies of occurrence is fundamental to establishing the historical range of variability (HRV) at the site. We found no substantial difference in frequency of debris flows cataloged at eleven sites of deposition between the east (8) and west (11) sides of the Colorado River valley over the last century, but four of the five largest debris flows originated on the west side of the valley in association with the earthen ditch, while the fifth is on a steep hillslope of hydrothermally altered rock on the east side. These results suggest that the ditch has altered the regime of debris flow activity in the Colorado River headwaters as compared to HRV by increasing the frequency of debris flows large enough to reach the Colorado River valley. Valley confinement is a dominant control on response to debris flows, influencing volumes of aggradation and persistence of debris flow deposits. Large, frequent debris flows, exceeding HRV, create persistent effects due to valley geometry and geomorphic setting conducive to sediment storage that are easily delineated by valley confinement ratios which are useful to land managers.

Debris Flow Occurrence and Sediment Persistence, Upper Colorado River Valley, CO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grimsley, K. J.; Rathburn, S. L.; Friedman, J. M.; Mangano, J. F.

2016-07-01

Debris flow magnitudes and frequencies are compared across the Upper Colorado River valley to assess influences on debris flow occurrence and to evaluate valley geometry effects on sediment persistence. Dendrochronology, field mapping, and aerial photographic analysis are used to evaluate whether a 19th century earthen, water-conveyance ditch has altered the regime of debris flow occurrence in the Colorado River headwaters. Identifying any shifts in disturbance processes or changes in magnitudes and frequencies of occurrence is fundamental to establishing the historical range of variability (HRV) at the site. We found no substantial difference in frequency of debris flows cataloged at eleven sites of deposition between the east (8) and west (11) sides of the Colorado River valley over the last century, but four of the five largest debris flows originated on the west side of the valley in association with the earthen ditch, while the fifth is on a steep hillslope of hydrothermally altered rock on the east side. These results suggest that the ditch has altered the regime of debris flow activity in the Colorado River headwaters as compared to HRV by increasing the frequency of debris flows large enough to reach the Colorado River valley. Valley confinement is a dominant control on response to debris flows, influencing volumes of aggradation and persistence of debris flow deposits. Large, frequent debris flows, exceeding HRV, create persistent effects due to valley geometry and geomorphic setting conducive to sediment storage that are easily delineated by valley confinement ratios which are useful to land managers.

Debris Flow Occurrence and Sediment Persistence, Upper Colorado River Valley, CO.

PubMed

Grimsley, K J; Rathburn, S L; Friedman, J M; Mangano, J F

2016-07-01

Debris flow magnitudes and frequencies are compared across the Upper Colorado River valley to assess influences on debris flow occurrence and to evaluate valley geometry effects on sediment persistence. Dendrochronology, field mapping, and aerial photographic analysis are used to evaluate whether a 19th century earthen, water-conveyance ditch has altered the regime of debris flow occurrence in the Colorado River headwaters. Identifying any shifts in disturbance processes or changes in magnitudes and frequencies of occurrence is fundamental to establishing the historical range of variability (HRV) at the site. We found no substantial difference in frequency of debris flows cataloged at eleven sites of deposition between the east (8) and west (11) sides of the Colorado River valley over the last century, but four of the five largest debris flows originated on the west side of the valley in association with the earthen ditch, while the fifth is on a steep hillslope of hydrothermally altered rock on the east side. These results suggest that the ditch has altered the regime of debris flow activity in the Colorado River headwaters as compared to HRV by increasing the frequency of debris flows large enough to reach the Colorado River valley. Valley confinement is a dominant control on response to debris flows, influencing volumes of aggradation and persistence of debris flow deposits. Large, frequent debris flows, exceeding HRV, create persistent effects due to valley geometry and geomorphic setting conducive to sediment storage that are easily delineated by valley confinement ratios which are useful to land managers.

Analysis of co-occurrence toponyms in web pages based on complex networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Xiang; Liu, Jiajun; Gao, Yong; Wu, Lun

2017-01-01

A large number of geographical toponyms exist in web pages and other documents, providing abundant geographical resources for GIS. It is very common for toponyms to co-occur in the same documents. To investigate these relations associated with geographic entities, a novel complex network model for co-occurrence toponyms is proposed. Then, 12 toponym co-occurrence networks are constructed from the toponym sets extracted from the People's Daily Paper documents of 2010. It is found that two toponyms have a high co-occurrence probability if they are at the same administrative level or if they possess a part-whole relationship. By applying complex network analysis methods to toponym co-occurrence networks, we find the following characteristics. (1) The navigation vertices of the co-occurrence networks can be found by degree centrality analysis. (2) The networks express strong cluster characteristics, and it takes only several steps to reach one vertex from another one, implying that the networks are small-world graphs. (3) The degree distribution satisfies the power law with an exponent of 1.7, so the networks are free-scale. (4) The networks are disassortative and have similar assortative modes, with assortative exponents of approximately 0.18 and assortative indexes less than 0. (5) The frequency of toponym co-occurrence is weakly negatively correlated with geographic distance, but more strongly negatively correlated with administrative hierarchical distance. Considering the toponym frequencies and co-occurrence relationships, a novel method based on link analysis is presented to extract the core toponyms from web pages. This method is suitable and effective for geographical information retrieval.

An Estimate of North Atlantic Basin Tropical Cyclone Activity for 2008

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Robert M.

2008-01-01

The statistics of North Atlantic basin tropical cyclones for the interval 1945-2007 are examined and estimates are given for the frequencies of occurrence of the number of tropical cyclones, number of hurricanes, number of major hurricanes, number of category 4/5 hurricanes, and number of U.S. land-falling hurricanes for the 2008 hurricane season. Also examined are the variations of peak wind speed, average peak wind speed per storm, lowest pressure, average lowest pressure per storm, recurrence rate and duration of extreme events (El Nino and La Nina), the variation of 10-yr moving averages of parametric first differences, and the association of decadal averages of frequencies of occurrence of North Atlantic basin tropical cyclones against decadal averages of Armagh Observatory, Northern Ireland, annual mean temperature (found to be extremely important for number of tropical cyclones and number of hurricanes). Because the 2008 hurricane season seems destined to be one that is non-El Nino-related and is a post-1995 season, estimates of the frequencies of occurrence for the various subsets of storms should be above long-term averages.

Fog Occurrence and Associated Meteorological Factors Over Kempegowda International Airport, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kutty, Saumya G.; Agnihotri, G.; Dimri, A. P.; Gultepe, I.

2018-05-01

The increase in fog frequency over the past few decades is a major cause of concern for the aviation and transportation sectors. Accurate forecasting of the spatio-temporal extent of fog is crucial for minimizing socioeconomic losses. The present study attempts to characterize the fog frequency and associated meteorological factors over Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB), in Karnataka, India. Maximum fog occurrence is observed during the month of December, followed by January. The time of onset of fog lies usually between 1800 and 0300 UTC. No fog is formed between 0400 and 1700 UTC indicating the role of radiation fog. The predominant wind direction during fog events is east or southeasterly. There is significant positive correlation between the fog frequency and both the northeast monsoon, October-November (0.72), as well as December-January-February (DJF) rainfall (0.80). Soil moisture conditions during the DJF period also play a key role in fog occurrence and its climatology, which is evident from the correlation coefficient of order 0.68. These suggest that further research is needed for understanding the extent of impact on aviation at KIAB.

Measuring information-based energy and temperature of literary texts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Mei-Chu; Yang, Albert C.-C.; Eugene Stanley, H.; Peng, C.-K.

2017-02-01

We apply a statistical method, information-based energy, to quantify informative symbolic sequences. To apply this method to literary texts, it is assumed that different words with different occurrence frequencies are at different energy levels, and that the energy-occurrence frequency distribution obeys a Boltzmann distribution. The temperature within the Boltzmann distribution can be an indicator for the author's writing capacity as the repertory of thoughts. The relative temperature of a text is obtained by comparing the energy-occurrence frequency distributions of words collected from one text versus from all texts of the same author. Combining the relative temperature with the Shannon entropy as the text complexity, the information-based energy of the text is defined and can be viewed as a quantitative evaluation of an author's writing performance. We demonstrate the method by analyzing two authors, Shakespeare in English and Jin Yong in Chinese, and find that their well-known works are associated with higher information-based energies. This method can be used to measure the creativity level of a writer's work in linguistics, and can also quantify symbolic sequences in different systems.

Multi-index evaluation of future drought and climate extreme occurrence in Goodwater Creek Experimental Watershed

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Understanding the frequency and occurrence of drought events in historic and projected future climate is essential for managing natural resources and setting policy. This study aims to identify future patterns of meteorological, hydrological and agricultural droughts based on projection from 12 GCM ...

Automatic Text Analysis Based on Transition Phenomena of Word Occurrences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pao, Miranda Lee

1978-01-01

Describes a method of selecting index terms directly from a word frequency list, an idea originally suggested by Goffman. Results of the analysis of word frequencies of two articles seem to indicate that the automated selection of index terms from a frequency list holds some promise for automatic indexing. (Author/MBR)

The identification of solar wind waves at discrete frequencies and the role of the spectral analysis techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Matteo, S.; Villante, U.

2017-05-01

The occurrence of waves at discrete frequencies in the solar wind (SW) parameters has been reported in the scientific literature with some controversial results, mostly concerning the existence (and stability) of favored sets of frequencies. On the other hand, the experimental results might be influenced by the analytical methods adopted for the spectral analysis. We focused attention on the fluctuations of the SW dynamic pressure (PSW) occurring in the leading edges of streams following interplanetary shocks and compared the results of the Welch method (WM) with those of the multitaper method (MTM). The results of a simulation analysis demonstrate that the identification of the wave occurrence and the frequency estimate might be strongly influenced by the signal characteristics and analytical methods, especially in the presence of multicomponent signals. In SW streams, PSW oscillations are routinely detected in the entire range f ≈ 1.2-5.0 mHz; nevertheless, the WM/MTM agreement in the identification and frequency estimate occurs in ≈50% of events and different sets of favored frequencies would be proposed for the same set of events by the WM and MTM analysis. The histogram of the frequency distribution of the events identified by both methods suggests more relevant percentages between f ≈ 1.7-1.9, f ≈ 2.7-3.4, and f ≈ 3.9-4.4 (with a most relevant peak at f ≈ 4.2 mHz). Extremely severe thresholds select a small number (14) of remarkable events, with a one-to-one correspondence between WM and MTM: interestingly, these events reveal a tendency for a favored occurrence in bins centered at f ≈ 2.9 and at f ≈ 4.2 mHz.

Erratum: Retraction Note to: Effect of Carbon Content on the Electrical Conductivity of Carbon Black-Filled PMC with Various Matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Soon-Gi

2018-03-01

The Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Board of Electronic Materials Letters have retracted this article [1] because its contents have been previously published by Miyasaka et al. [2]. The contents of this article are therefore redundant. Author Soon-Gi Shin has not responded to correspondence from the Editor about this retraction.

Functionally Graded Multifunctional Hybrid Composites for Extreme Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

Develop multifunctional FGHC with multiple layers: a ceramic thermal barrier layer, a graded ceramic /metal composite (GCMeC) layer and a high...AFOSR-MURI Functionally Graded Hybrid Composites Actively Cooled PMC White (UIUC) FGHC Fabrication Team Graded Ceramic Metal Composites (GCMeC...Composites Fabrication and Characterization of Bulk Ceramic MAX Phase and MAX–Metal Composites AFOSR-MURI Functionally Graded Hybrid Composites Mn

Pre-clinical and Clinical Investigation of the Impact of Obesity on Ovarian Cancer Pathogenesis

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

Cancer. 2006;107(7):1520-4. PubMed PMID: 16941453. 3. Olsen CM, Green AC, Whiteman DC, Sadeghi S, Kolahdooz F, Webb PM. Obesity and the risk of...PMC3317899. 18. Engeland A, Bjorge T, Selmer RM, Tverdal A. Height and body mass index in relation to total mortality. Epidemiology. 2003;14(3):293

New horizons in Biophysics

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

This editorial celebrates the re-launch of PMC Biophysics previously published by PhysMath Central, in its new format as BMC Biophysics published by BioMed Central with an expanded scope and Editorial Board. BMC Biophysics will fill its own niche in the BMC series alongside complementary companion journals including BMC Bioinformatics, BMC Medical Physics, BMC Structural Biology and BMC Systems Biology. PMID:21595996

Multifunctional Antenna Techniques

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-25

the planar structure that can be sufficiently isolated from the radiation mechanism of the antenna and transformed into a TEM transmission line feed...an equivalent transmission line structure, and isolate the physical 5 | P a g e mechanisms responsible for impedance and radiation behavior...gap-fed Archimedean spiral antenna in free space with non-negligible metal width, insertion PMC boundaries to isolate the radiation and propagation

Activation of the Parieto-Premotor Network Is Associated with Vivid Motor Imagery—A Parametric fMRI Study

PubMed Central

Lorey, Britta; Pilgramm, Sebastian; Bischoff, Matthias; Stark, Rudolf; Vaitl, Dieter; Kindermann, Stefan; Munzert, Jörn; Zentgraf, Karen

2011-01-01

The present study examined the neural basis of vivid motor imagery with parametrical functional magnetic resonance imaging. 22 participants performed motor imagery (MI) of six different right-hand movements that differed in terms of pointing accuracy needs and object involvement, i.e., either none, two big or two small squares had to be pointed at in alternation either with or without an object grasped with the fingers. After each imagery trial, they rated the perceived vividness of motor imagery on a 7-point scale. Results showed that increased perceived imagery vividness was parametrically associated with increasing neural activation within the left putamen, the left premotor cortex (PMC), the posterior parietal cortex of the left hemisphere, the left primary motor cortex, the left somatosensory cortex, and the left cerebellum. Within the right hemisphere, activation was found within the right cerebellum, the right putamen, and the right PMC. It is concluded that the perceived vividness of MI is parametrically associated with neural activity within sensorimotor areas. The results corroborate the hypothesis that MI is an outcome of neural computations based on movement representations located within motor areas. PMID:21655298

Posttest data analysis of FIST experimental TRAC-BD1/MOD1 power transient experiment

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

Wheatley, P.D.; Wagner, K.C.

The FIST power transient test 6PMC2 was analyzed to further the understanding of the FIST facility and provide an assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1. FIST power transient 6PMC2 investigated the thermal-hydraulic response following inadvertent closure of the main steam isolation valve and the subsequent failure of the reactor to scram. Failure of the high pressure core spray system was also assumed, resulting in only the reactor core isolation cooling flow for inventory makeup during the transient. The experiment was a sensitivity study with relatively high core power and low makeup rates. This study provides one of the first opportunities to assess TRAC-BD1/MOD1more » under power transient and natural circulation conditions with data from a facility with prototypical BWR geometry. The power transient test was analyzed with emphasis on the following phenomena: (a) the system pressure response, (b) the natural circulation flows and rates, and (c) the heater rod cladding temperature response. Based on the results of this study, TRAC-BD1/MOD1 can be expected to calculate the thermal-hydraulic behavior of a BWR during a power transient.« less

Restricting access to publications from funded research: ethical issues and solutions.

PubMed

Manikandan, S; Vani, N Isai

2010-01-01

India is becoming one of the hubs of clinical research. Commensurate with these advances, the government funding for biomedical research in thrust areas is also increasing. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Department of Science and Technology (DST) are some of the government organizations which provide financial support for various research projects. The results of the funded research projects are published in various international journals. Most of these journals have an access to paid subscribers only. Hence it is unethical to use the research grants from government (people's money) and not allow the scientific community free access to the results of the study. To tackle such issues, these agencies should sign the Berlin declaration and create open access repositories. A public access policy should be formulated and listed in JULIET. The funding bodies in India should also join Pubmed Central (PMC) to form PMC India so that every investigator who has received grants would submit the full text of the paper published from his study and these can be made freely accessible to everyone. Universities and research institutions should also develop institutional open access repositories. The public access policy has definitive advantages and should be implemented.

Phase-shifting coronagraph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hénault, François; Carlotti, Alexis; Vérinaud, Christophe

2017-09-01

With the recent commissioning of ground instruments such as SPHERE or GPI and future space observatories like WFIRST-AFTA, coronagraphy should probably become the most efficient tool for identifying and characterizing extrasolar planets in the forthcoming years. Coronagraphic instruments such as Phase mask coronagraphs (PMC) are usually based on a phase mask or plate located at the telescope focal plane, spreading the starlight outside the diameter of a Lyot stop that blocks it. In this communication is investigated the capability of a PMC to act as a phase-shifting wavefront sensor for better control of the achieved star extinction ratio in presence of the coronagraphic mask. We discuss the two main implementations of the phase-shifting process, either introducing phase-shifts in a pupil plane and sensing intensity variations in an image plane, or reciprocally. Conceptual optical designs are described in both cases. Numerical simulations allow for better understanding of the performance and limitations of both options, and optimizing their fundamental parameters. In particular, they demonstrate that the phase-shifting process is a bit more efficient when implemented into an image plane, and is compatible with the most popular phase masks currently employed, i.e. fourquadrants and vortex phase masks.

Autonomous power expert fault diagnostic system for Space Station Freedom electrical power system testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, Long V.; Walters, Jerry L.; Roth, Mary Ellen; Quinn, Todd M.; Krawczonek, Walter M.

1990-01-01

The goal of the Autonomous Power System (APS) program is to develop and apply intelligent problem solving and control to the Space Station Freedom Electrical Power System (SSF/EPS) testbed being developed and demonstrated at NASA Lewis Research Center. The objectives of the program are to establish artificial intelligence technology paths, to craft knowledge-based tools with advanced human-operator interfaces for power systems, and to interface and integrate knowledge-based systems with conventional controllers. The Autonomous Power EXpert (APEX) portion of the APS program will integrate a knowledge-based fault diagnostic system and a power resource planner-scheduler. Then APEX will interface on-line with the SSF/EPS testbed and its Power Management Controller (PMC). The key tasks include establishing knowledge bases for system diagnostics, fault detection and isolation analysis, on-line information accessing through PMC, enhanced data management, and multiple-level, object-oriented operator displays. The first prototype of the diagnostic expert system for fault detection and isolation has been developed. The knowledge bases and the rule-based model that were developed for the Power Distribution Control Unit subsystem of the SSF/EPS testbed are described. A corresponding troubleshooting technique is also described.

Characterization of a Multiresistant Mosaic Plasmid from a Fish Farm Sediment Exiguobacterium sp. Isolate Reveals Aggregation of Functional Clinic-Associated Antibiotic Resistance Genes

PubMed Central

Yang, Jing; Wang, Chao; Wu, Jinyu; Liu, Li; Zhang, Gang

2014-01-01

The genus Exiguobacterium can adapt readily to, and survive in, diverse environments. Our study demonstrated that Exiguobacterium sp. strain S3-2, isolated from marine sediment, is resistant to five antibiotics. The plasmid pMC1 in this strain carries seven putative resistance genes. We functionally characterized these resistance genes in Escherichia coli, and genes encoding dihydrofolate reductase and macrolide phosphotransferase were considered novel resistance genes based on their low similarities to known resistance genes. The plasmid G+C content distribution was highly heterogeneous. Only the G+C content of one block, which shared significant similarity with a plasmid from Exiguobacterium arabatum, fit well with the mean G+C content of the host. The remainder of the plasmid was composed of mobile elements with a markedly lower G+C ratio than the host. Interestingly, five mobile elements located on pMC1 showed significant similarities to sequences found in pathogens. Our data provided an example of the link between resistance genes in strains from the environment and the clinic and revealed the aggregation of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria isolated from fish farms. PMID:24362420

Structural studies of Proteus mirabilis catalase in its ground state, oxidized state and in complex with formic acid.

PubMed

Andreoletti, Pierre; Pernoud, Anaïs; Sainz, Germaine; Gouet, Patrice; Jouve, Hélène Marie

2003-12-01

The structure of Proteus mirabilis catalase in complex with an inhibitor, formic acid, has been solved at 2.3 A resolution. Formic acid is a key ligand of catalase because of its ability to react with the ferric enzyme, giving a high-spin iron complex. Alternatively, it can react with two transient oxidized intermediates of the enzymatic mechanism, compounds I and II. In this work, the structures of native P. mirabilis catalase (PMC) and compound I have also been determined at high resolution (2.0 and 2.5 A, respectively) from frozen crystals. Comparisons between these three PMC structures show that a water molecule present at a distance of 3.5 A from the haem iron in the resting state is absent in the formic acid complex, but reappears in compound I. In addition, movements of solvent molecules are observed during formation of compound I in a cavity located away from the active site, in which a glycerol molecule is replaced by a sulfate. These results give structural insights into the movement of solvent molecules, which may be important in the enzymatic reaction.

Proportion of patients in the Uganda rheumatic heart disease registry with advanced disease requiring urgent surgical interventions.

PubMed

Zhang, WanZhu; Okello, Emmy; Nyakoojo, Wilson; Lwabi, Peter; Mondo, Charles K

2015-12-01

Since the establishment of the Uganda Rheumatic Heart Registry, over 900 patients have been enrolled. We sought to stratify the patients in the registry according to disease severity and optimal management strategy. We reviewed data of 618 patients who had enrolled in the Registry between March 2010 and February 2013. The 67 patients who had died were excluded leaving 551 patients who were recruited. The optimum management strategy was determined according to the 2012 European Society of Cardiology guidelines on the management of valvular heart disease. Out of the 551 patient's records evaluated, 398 (72.3%) required invasive intervention, with 332(60.3%) patients requiring surgery and 66 (12.0%) requiring percutaneous mitral commissurotomy (PMC). This leaves only 27.7% of patients who required only medical management. Currently, majority of the patients (498, 90.4%) in the registry are on medical treatment. Of the 60.3% requiring surgical intervention, only 8.0% (44 patients) underwent valvular surgery and 5(1.0%) patients of the 66 (12.0%) underwent PMC successfully. There is a high proportion of patients with severe disease that require surgical treatment yet they cannot access this therapy due to absence of local expertise.

[Effects of converting cultivated land into forest land on the characteristics of soil organic carbon in limestone mountain area in Ruichang, Jiangxi].

PubMed

Liu, Yuan-qiu; Wang, Fang; Ke, Guo-qing; Wang, Ying-ying; Guo, Shen-mao; Fan, Cheng-fang

2011-04-01

Taking the forest lands having been converted from cultivated land for 5 years in Ruichang City of Jiangxi Province as test objects, this paper studied the characteristics of soil organic carbon (SOC) under 4 different conversion models (forest-seedling integration, pure medicinal forest, bamboo-broadleaved mixed forest, and multi-species mixed forest). After the conversion from cultivated land into forestlands, the contents of SOC, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and mineralizable carbon (PMC) in 0-20 cm soil layer increased by 24.4%, 29%, and 18.4%, respectively, compared with those under the conversion from cultivated land into wasteland (P < 0.05), which indicated that the conversion from cultivated land into forest lands significantly increased the SOC content and SOC storage. The SOC, MBC, and PMC contents in 0-10 cm soil layer were significantly higher than those in 10-20 cm soil layer (P < 0.01), and the differences between the soil layers of the four forest lands were higher than those of the wasteland. Among the 4 conversion models, forest-seedling integration had more obvious effects on SOC.

Model reduction for Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Trevor

1992-01-01

Model reduction is an important practical problem in the control of flexible spacecraft, and a considerable amount of work has been carried out on this topic. Two of the best known methods developed are modal truncation and internal balancing. Modal truncation is simple to implement but can give poor results when the structure possesses clustered natural frequencies, as often occurs in practice. Balancing avoids this problem but has the disadvantages of high computational cost, possible numerical sensitivity problems, and no physical interpretation for the resulting balanced 'modes'. The purpose of this work is to examine the performance of the subsystem balancing technique developed by the investigator when tested on a realistic flexible space structure, in this case a model of the Permanently Manned Configuration (PMC) of Space Station Freedom. This method retains the desirable properties of standard balancing while overcoming the three difficulties listed above. It achieves this by first decomposing the structural model into subsystems of highly correlated modes. Each subsystem is approximately uncorrelated from all others, so balancing them separately and then combining yields comparable results to balancing the entire structure directly. The operation count reduction obtained by the new technique is considerable: a factor of roughly r(exp 2) if the system decomposes into r equal subsystems. Numerical accuracy is also improved significantly, as the matrices being operated on are of reduced dimension, and the modes of the reduced-order model now have a clear physical interpretation; they are, to first order, linear combinations of repeated-frequency modes.

On the Importance of High Frequency Gravity Waves for Ice Nucleation in the Tropical Tropopause Layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jensen, Eric J.

2016-01-01

Recent investigations of the influence of atmospheric waves on ice nucleation in cirrus have identified a number of key processes and sensitivities: (1) ice concentrations produced by homogeneous freezing are strongly dependent on cooling rates, with gravity waves dominating upper tropospheric cooling rates; (2) rapid cooling driven by high-frequency waves are likely responsible for the rare occurrences of very high ice concentrations in cirrus; (3) sedimentation and entrainment tend to decrease ice concentrations as cirrus age; and (4) in some situations, changes in temperature tendency driven by high-frequency waves can quench ice nucleation events and limit ice concentrations. Here we use parcel-model simulations of ice nucleation driven by long-duration, constant-pressure balloon temperature time series, along with an extensive dataset of cold cirrus microphysical properties from the recent ATTREX high-altitude aircraft campaign, to statistically examine the importance of high-frequency waves as well as the consistency between our theoretical understanding of ice nucleation and observed ice concentrations. The parcel-model simulations indicate common occurrence of peak ice concentrations exceeding several hundred per liter. Sedimentation and entrainment would reduce ice concentrations as clouds age, but 1-D simulations using a wave parameterization (which underestimates rapid cooling events) still produce ice concentrations higher than indicated by observations. We find that quenching of nucleation events by high-frequency waves occurs infrequently and does not prevent occurrences of large ice concentrations in parcel simulations of homogeneous freezing. In fact, the high-frequency variability in the balloon temperature data is entirely responsible for production of these high ice concentrations in the simulations.

Occurrence of clostridia in commercially available curry roux.

PubMed

Fujisawa, T; Aikawa, K; Takahashi, T; Yamai, S; Ueda, S

2001-12-01

The occurrence of clostridia was investigated in a total of 60 commercially available curry roux samples. Clostridia were isolated from 37 (62%) samples, and Clostridium perfringens was isolated from 7 (12%) samples. The isolates of C. perfringens did not produce enterotoxin. The frequency of occurrence was higher by the enrichment broth culture detection method than by the agar plate or pouch method. These findings suggest that enrichment broth culture is necessary for the detection of clostridia.

Drought evolution characteristics and precipitation intensity changes during alternating dry-wet changes in the Huang-Huai-Hai River basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, D. H.; Wu, D.; Huang, R.; Wang, L. N.; Yang, G. Y.

2013-03-01

According to the Chinese climate divisions and the Huang-Huai-Hai River basin digital elevation map, the basin is divided into seven sub-regions by means of cluster analysis of the basin meteorological stations using the self-organizing map (SOM) neural network method. Based on the daily precipitation data of 171 stations for the years 1961-2011, the drought frequency changes with different magnitudes are analyzed and the number of consecutive days without precipitation is used to identify the drought magnitudes. The first precipitation intensity after a drought period is analyzed with the Pearson-III frequency curve, then the relationship between rainfall intensity and different drought magnitudes is observed, as are the drought frequency changes for different years. The results of the study indicated the following: (1) the occurrence frequency of different drought level shows an overall increasing trend; there is no clear interdecadal change shown, but the spatial difference is significant. The occurrence frequencies of severe and extraordinary drought are higher on the North China Plain, Hetao Plains in Ningxia-Inner Mongolia, as well as on the Inner Mongolia and the Loess Plateaus, and in the Fen-Wei Valley basin. (2) As the drought level increases, the probability of extraordinary rainstorm becomes lower, and the frequency of occurrence of spatial changes in different precipitation intensities vary. In the areas surrounding Bo Sea, the Shandong Peninsula and the Huai River downstream, as the drought level increases, the occurrence frequency of different precipitation intensities first shows a decreasing trend, which becomes an increasing trend when extraordinary drought occurs. In the middle and upper reaches of the Huai River basin, on the Hai River basin piedmont plain and Hetao Plains in Ningxia-Inner Mongolia, Inner Mongolia and Loess Plateaus, and in the Fen-Wei Valley basin, the probability of the different precipitation intensities shows an overall decreasing trend. The mountains with high attitude and Tibetan Plateau are located at high altitudes where the variation of different precipitation intensities with the increase in drought level is relatively complex. (3) As the drought frequency increases, areas I, II and V which are located on the coastal and in the river basin are vulnerable to extreme precipitation processes; areas III, IV, VI and VII are located in the inland area where heavier precipitation is not likely to occur.

Mass loss at Saturn: The contribution of plasmoids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kivelson, M.; Jia, X.; Jackman, C. M.

2017-12-01

Jia and Kivelson (2012) showed that an MHD simulation of Saturn's magnetosphere including rotating field-aligned currents generates a plasmoid on each rotation period. For southern summer conditions, plasmoids form through reconnection in the tail near midnight at a rotation phase for which the core magnetic field perturbation points towards the planet in the LT sector of the release. After release, they move northward and outward in the post midnight sector. Mass loss is found to be dominated by plasmoid release, and to compare closely to the mass source rate; much of the outward mass flux is found in the 0300-0900 LT sector. However, studies of plasmoid signatures in Cassini magnetometer data conclude that releases do not occur each rotation period and infer mass loss rates far smaller than Saturn's mass source rate (Jackman et al., 2014). Studies based on plasma data also infer loss rates smaller than the source rate from Enceladus (Thomsen, 2013). The simulation suggests that plasmoid occurrence frequency depends strongly on local time and latitude. Indeed, in regions near the equator and near midnight, where plasmoids are present in the simulation, the occurrence frequency of plasmoid releases inferred from magnetometer data is higher than elsewhere (Jackman et al., 2016; Smith et al., 2016), with occurrence probability peaking at the phase predicted by the simulation. We consider how the observational limitations should be modified to establish mass loss rates and plasmoid occurrence frequency.

Occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes in the fecal DNA of healthy omnivores, ovo-lacto vegetarians and vegans.

PubMed

Milanović, Vesna; Osimani, Andrea; Aquilanti, Lucia; Tavoletti, Stefano; Garofalo, Cristiana; Polverigiani, Serena; Litta-Mulondo, Alice; Cocolin, Luca; Ferrocino, Ilario; Di Cagno, Raffaella; Turroni, Silvia; Lazzi, Camilla; Pellegrini, Nicoletta; Clementi, Francesca

2017-09-01

The effects of long-term omnivore, ovo-lacto vegetarian and vegan diets on the occurrence of 12 antibiotic resistance (AR) genes in the human gut were studied. The feces of 144 healthy volunteers recruited from Turin, Bari, Bologna, and Parma were screened for the occurrence of genes conferring resistance to tetracyclines, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B, vancomycin, and β-lactams. Overall, erm(B), tet(W) and tet(M) were detected at the highest frequency. A low effect from the diet on the AR gene distribution emerged, with tet(K) and vanB occurring at a lower and higher frequency in vegans and omnivores, respectively. A correlation of the intake of eggs, milk from animal sources and cheese with an increased occurrence of tet(K) was observed, together with a higher incidence of vanB in consumers of eggs, poultry meat, fish and seafood. When the detection frequencies of AR genes in volunteers from Bari and the other sites were comparatively evaluated, a north-to-south gradient was observed, whereas no effect of sex or age was highlighted. Except for tet(K), a negligible three-factor interaction was seen. A high impact of the geographical location on AR gene distribution was seen in the cohort of subjects analyzed, irrespective of their dietary habits. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A new cloud and aerosol layer detection method based on micropulse lidar measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Chuanfeng; Wang, Yuzhao; Wang, Qianqian; Li, Zhanqing; Wang, Zhien; Liu, Dong

2014-06-01

This paper introduces a new algorithm to detect aerosols and clouds based on micropulse lidar measurements. A semidiscretization processing technique is first used to inhibit the impact of increasing noise with distance. The value distribution equalization method which reduces the magnitude of signal variations with distance is then introduced. Combined with empirical threshold values, we determine if the signal waves indicate clouds or aerosols. This method can separate clouds and aerosols with high accuracy, although differentiation between aerosols and clouds are subject to more uncertainties depending on the thresholds selected. Compared with the existing Atmospheric Radiation Measurement program lidar-based cloud product, the new method appears more reliable and detects more clouds with high bases. The algorithm is applied to a year of observations at both the U.S. Southern Great Plains (SGP) and China Taihu sites. At the SGP site, the cloud frequency shows a clear seasonal variation with maximum values in winter and spring and shows bimodal vertical distributions with maximum occurrences at around 3-6 km and 8-12 km. The annual averaged cloud frequency is about 50%. The dominant clouds are stratiform in winter and convective in summer. By contrast, the cloud frequency at the Taihu site shows no clear seasonal variation and the maximum occurrence is at around 1 km. The annual averaged cloud frequency is about 15% higher than that at the SGP site. A seasonal analysis of cloud base occurrence frequency suggests that stratiform clouds dominate at the Taihu site.

Do McKinnon lists provide reliable data in bird species frequency? A comparison with transect-based data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cento, Michele; Scrocca, Roberto; Coppola, Michele; Rossi, Maurizio; Di Giuseppe, Riccardo; Battisti, Corrado; Luiselli, Luca; Amori, Giovanni

2018-05-01

Although occurrence-based listing methods could provide reliable lists of species composition for a site, the effective reliability of this method to provide more detailed information about species frequency (and abundance) has been rarely tested. In this paper, we compared the species frequencies obtained for the same set of species-rich sites (wetlands of central Italy) from two different methods: McKinnon lists and line transects. In all sites we observed: (i) rapid cumulating curves of line transect abundance frequencies toward the asymptote represented by the maximum value in McKinnon occurrence frequency; (ii) a large amount of species having a low frequency with line transect method showing a high range of variation in frequency obtained by McKinnon lists; (iii) a set of species having a subdominant (>0.02-<0.05) and dominant species (>0.05) frequency with line transect showed all the highest value in McKinnon frequency. McKinnon lists provides only a coarse-grained proxy of species frequency of individuals distinguishing only between common species (having the highest values of McKinnon frequency) and rare species (all the other species). Although McKinnon lists have some points of strength, this method does not discriminate the frequencies inside the subset of common species (sub-dominant and dominant species). Therefore, we suggest a cautionary approach when McKinnon frequencies should be used to obtain complex univariate metrics of diversity.

Wildfires, mountain pine beetle and large-scale climate in Northern North America.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macias Fauria, M.; Johnson, E. A.

2009-05-01

Research on the interactions between biosphere and atmosphere and ocean/atmosphere dynamics, concretely on the coupling between ecological processes and large-scale climate, is presented in two studies in Northern North America: the occurrence of large lightning wildfires and the forest area affected by mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae, MPB). In both cases, large-scale climatic patterns such as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and the Arctic Oscillation (AO) operate as low and low and high frequency frameworks, respectively, that control the occurrence, duration and spatial correlation over large areas of key local weather variables which affect specific ecological processes. Warm PDO phases tend to produce persistent (more than 10 days long) positive mid-troposphere anomalies (blocking highs) over western Canada and Alaska. Likewise, positive (negative) AO configurations increase the frequency of blocking highs at mid (high) latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Under these conditions, lack of precipitation and prevailing warm air meridional flow rapidly dry fuel over large areas and increase fire hazard. The spatiotemporal patterns of occurrence of large lightning wildfire in Canada and Alaska for 1959-1999 were largely explained by the action and possible interaction of AO and PDO, the AO being more influential over Eastern Canada, the PDO over Western Canada and Alaska. Changes in the dynamics of the PDO are linked to the occurrence of cold winter temperatures in British Columbia (BC), Western Canada. Reduced frequency of cold events during warm PDO winters is consistent with a northward-displaced polar jet stream inhibiting the outflow of cold Arctic air over BC. Likewise, the AO influences the occurrence of winter cold spells in the area. PDO, and to a lesser degree AO, were strongly related to MPB synchrony in BC during 1959-2002, operating through the control of the frequency of extreme cold winter temperatures that affect MPB larvae survival. The onset of a warm PDO phase in 1976 1) increased (decreased) the area burnt by wildfire in the Canadian Boreal Forest (BC) by increasing (decreasing) the frequency of blocking highs in the area, and 2) favored MPB outbreaks in BC by reducing the occurrence of extremely low winter temperatures. Likewise, the exceptionally high and persistent AO values of the late 1980s and 1990s increased area burned in Eastern Canada and MPB activity in the southern and northern parts of BC. A possible recent PDO phase shift may largely reverse these trends.

Competencies and Responsibilities of Social Science Data Librarians: An Analysis of Job Descriptions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xia, Jingfeng; Wang, Minglu

2014-01-01

This study examines job announcements for social science data librarians and professionals to identify trends in the profession. A collection of 167 job postings in 2005-2012 from the International Association for Social Science Information Services & Technology website was analyzed on the frequencies of term occurrence and co-occurrence in…

MITE ANTIGEN CONCENTRATIONS IN HOUSE DUST AND THE OCCURRENCE OF WHEEZING IN CHILDREN WITH MITE DUST ALLERGY

EPA Science Inventory

We studied the relationship between dust mite antigen concentrations in house dust samples and the occurrence and frequency of wheezing in 58 children with dust mite allergy (wheal > 4 mm. mean diameter in response to a prick test with either D-. farinae or D pteronyssinus antige...

Phytomass in southwest Alaska.

Treesearch

Bert R. Mead

2000-01-01

Phytomass tables are presented for southwest Alaska. The methods used to estimate plant weight and occurrence in the river basin are described and discussed. Average weight is shown for each sampled species of tree, shrub, grass, forb, lichen, and moss in 19 forest and 48 nonforest vegetation types. Species frequency of occurrence and species constancy within the type...

Some limitations of frequency as a component of risk: an expository note.

PubMed

Cox, Louis Anthony

2009-02-01

Students of risk analysis are often taught that "risk is frequency times consequence" or, more generally, that risk is determined by the frequency and severity of adverse consequences. But is it? This expository note reviews the concepts of frequency as average annual occurrence rate and as the reciprocal of mean time to failure (MTTF) or mean time between failures (MTBF) in a renewal process. It points out that if two risks (represented as two (frequency, severity) pairs for adverse consequences) have identical values for severity but different values of frequency, then it is not necessarily true that the one with the smaller value of frequency is preferable-and this is true no matter how frequency is defined. In general, there is not necessarily an increasing relation between the reciprocal of the mean time until an event occurs, its long-run average occurrences per year, and other criteria, such as the probability or expected number of times that it will happen over a specific interval of interest, such as the design life of a system. Risk depends on more than frequency and severity of consequences. It also depends on other information about the probability distribution for the time of a risk event that can become lost in simple measures of event "frequency." More flexible descriptions of risky processes, such as point process models can avoid these limitations.

Occurrence Frequencies of Acoustic Patterns of Vocal Fry in American English Speakers.

PubMed

Abdelli-Beruh, Nassima B; Drugman, Thomas; Red Owl, R H

2016-11-01

The goal of this study was to analyze the occurrence frequencies of three individual acoustic patterns (A, B, C) and of vocal fry overall (A + B + C) as a function of gender, word position in the sentence (Not Last Word vs. Last Word), and sentence length (number of words in a sentence). This is an experimental design. Twenty-five male and 29 female American English (AE) speakers read the Grandfather Passage. The recordings were processed by a Matlab toolbox designed for the analysis and detection of creaky segments, automatically identified using the Kane-Drugman algorithm. The experiment produced subsamples of outcomes, three that reflect a single, discrete acoustic pattern (A, B, or C) and the fourth that reflects the occurrence frequency counts of Vocal Fry Overall without regard to any specific pattern. Zero-truncated Poisson regression analyses were conducted with Gender and Word Position as predictors and Sentence Length as a covariate. The results of the present study showed that the occurrence frequencies of the three acoustic patterns and vocal fry overall (A + B + C) are greatest at the end of sentences but are unaffected by sentence length. The findings also reveal that AE female speakers exhibit Pattern C significantly more frequently than Pattern B, and the converse holds for AE male speakers. Future studies are needed to confirm such outcomes, assess the perceptual salience of these acoustic patterns, and determine the physiological correlates of these acoustic patterns. The findings have implications for the design of new excitation models of vocal fry. Copyright © 2016 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of sporadic E-layer characteristics on spread-F generation in the nighttime ionosphere near a northern equatorial anomaly crest during solar minimum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, C. C.; Chen, W. S.

2015-06-01

This study is to know how the characteristics of sporadic E-layer (Es-layer) affect the generation of spread-F in the nighttime ionosphere near the crest of equatorial ionization anomaly during solar minimum. The data of Es-layer parameters and spread-F are obtained from the Chungli ionograms of 1996. The Es-layer parameters include foEs (critical frequency of Es-layer), fbEs (blanketing frequency of Es-layer), and Δf (≡foEs-fbEs). Results show that the nighttime variations of foEs and fbEs medians (Δf medians) are different from (similar to) that of the occurrence probabilities of spread-F. Because the total number of Es-layer events is greater than that of spread-F events, the comparison between the medians of Es-layer parameters and the occurrence probabilities of spread-F might have a shortfall. Further, we categorize the Es-layer and spread-F events into each frequency interval of Es-layer parameters. For the occurrence probabilities of spread-F versus foEs, an increasing trend is found in post-midnight of all three seasons. The increasing trend also exists in pre-midnight of the J-months and in post-midnight of all seasons, for the occurrence probabilities of spread-F versus Δf. These demonstrate that the spread-F occurrence increases with increasing foEs and/or Δf. Moreover, the increasing trends indicate that polarization electric fields generated in Es-layer assist to produce spread-F, through the electrodynamical coupling of Es-layer and F-region. Regarding the occurrence probabilities of spread-F versus fbEs, the significant trend only appears in post-midnight of the E-months. This implies that fbEs might not be a major factor for the spread-F formation.

Status and understanding of groundwater quality in the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau study unit, 2010: California GAMA Priority Basin Project

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fram, Miranda S.; Shelton, Jennifer L.

2015-01-01

Organic constituents were not detected at high or moderate RCs, and the occurrence of low organic constituents at low RCs ranged from 27 percent to 73 percent of the primary aquifers system in the six study areas. The Shasta Valley and Mount Shasta Volcanic study area had significantly greater occurrence of low RCs of herbicides compared to all of the other study areas, which could reflect the greater prevalence of modern groundwater in the Shasta Valley and Mount Shasta Volcanic study area and the presence of potential sources of herbicides, including applications to timberlands and roadside rights-of-way. The Eastside Sacramento Valley study area had the greatest occurrence of low concentrations of chloroform, and chloroform occurrence was most strongly associated with the combination of septic-tank density greater than two tanks per square kilometer and urban land use greater than 10 percent within a radius of 500 meters of the well. These conditions were most prevalent in the Eastside Sacramento Valley study area. The detection frequency of low concentrations of perchlorate was consistent with the probability of occurrence expected under natural conditions, except in the Eastside Sacramento Valley study area, where detection frequencies were much higher than expected and could not be explained by known anthropogenic sources of perchlorate.

Composite treatment of ceramic tile armor

DOEpatents

Hansen, James G. R. [Oak Ridge, TN; Frame, Barbara J [Oak Ridge, TN

2010-12-14

An improved ceramic tile armor has a core of boron nitride and a polymer matrix composite (PMC) facing of carbon fibers fused directly to the impact face of the tile. A polyethylene fiber composite backing and spall cover are preferred. The carbon fiber layers are cured directly onto the tile, not adhered using a separate adhesive so that they are integral with the tile, not a separate layer.

Composite treatment of ceramic tile armor

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

Hansen, James G. R.; Frame, Barbara J

An improved ceramic tile armor has a core of boron nitride and a polymer matrix composite (PMC) facing of carbon fibers fused directly to the impact face of the tile. A polyethylene fiber composite backing and spall cover are preferred. The carbon fiber layers are cured directly onto the tile, not adhered using a separate adhesive so that they are integral with the tile, not a separate layer.

Association of genetic variants of the incretin-related genes with quantitative traits and occurrence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese.

PubMed

Enya, Mayumi; Horikawa, Yukio; Iizuka, Katsumi; Takeda, Jun

2014-01-01

None of the high frequency variants of the incretin-related genes has been found by genome-wide association study (GWAS) for association with occurrence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese. However, low frequency and rare and/or high frequency variants affecting glucose metabolic traits remain to be investigated. We screened all exons of the incretin-related genes ( GCG , GLP1R , DPP4 , PCSK1 , GIP , and GIPR ) in 96 patients with type 2 diabetes and investigated for association of genetic variants of these genes with quantitative metabolic traits upon test meal with 38 young healthy volunteers and with the occurrence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese subjects comprising 1303 patients with type 2 diabetes and 1014 controls. Two mutations of GIPR , p.Thr3Alafsx21 and Arg183Gln, were found only in patients with type 2 diabetes, and both of them were treated with insulin. Of ten tagSNPs, we found that risk allele C of SNP393 (rs6235) of PCSK1 was nominally associated with higher fasting insulin and HOMA-R ( P  = 0.034 and P  = 0.030), but not with proinsulin level, incretin level or BMI. The variant showed significant association with occurrence of type 2 diabetes after adjustment for age, sex, and BMI ( P  = 0.0043). Rare variants of GIPR may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, possibly through insulin secretory defects. Furthermore, the genetic variant of PCSK1 might influence glucose homeostasis by altered insulin resistance independently of BMI, incretin level or proinsulin conversion, and may be associated with the occurrence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese.

Burst of ULF Electric Field Recorded by DEMETER Possibly Related to the Series of Earthquakes Occurred during the Tsunami Over the Indian Region (P19)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gwal, A. K.; Shrivastava, A.

2006-11-01

ak_gwal@yahoo.co.in The scientists have found that the accumulation of tectonic energy is localized in certain places and is not universal. Taking into account this hypothesis the authors have studied the sequence of occurrence rate of the earthquakes (M≥5) in the South-East Asian region, as the chronological data related to the occurrence of earthquakes collected in that region for last five years i.e. from 2001 to 2005 have revealed that the disastrous tsunami events which took place on 26th December, 2004 as an effect of Sumatra earthquake( M=9) have increased the occurrence of earthquake frequency for a longer period (which might be due to adjustment of tectonic plates). Observing these facts i.e. sudden enhancement in occurrence rate of earthquakes, the authors have availed this opportunity to further explore the concept of seismoelectromagnetic-ionospheric phenomena, which still needs a lot of statistical evidences, comprising tremendous amount of data to establish it. In this paper the authors have tried to analyze the chain of observations made and data collected and stored month wise w.e.f. 26th December, 2004 to 31st March, 2005 in the region, using DEMETER satellite. Further, efforts have also been made to provide the statistical analysis of the ionospheric variability caused due to detected electromagnetic burst in ULF frequency ranges in the context of natural variability in order to distinguish the variability introduced by other sources. In brief, it could be concluded that there is possibility of getting the electromagnetic precursors in the ionosphere at different frequency ranges due to excess release of tectonic energy as a result of occurrence rate of the earthquakes in the region.

Altered Structural and Functional Connectivity in Late Preterm Preadolescence: An Anatomic Seed-Based Study of Resting State Networks Related to the Posteromedial and Lateral Parietal Cortex

PubMed Central

Degnan, Andrew J.; Wisnowski, Jessica L.; Choi, SoYoung; Ceschin, Rafael; Bhushan, Chitresh; Leahy, Richard M.; Corby, Patricia; Schmithorst, Vincent J.; Panigrahy, Ashok

2015-01-01

Objective Late preterm birth confers increased risk of developmental delay, academic difficulties and social deficits. The late third trimester may represent a critical period of development of neural networks including the default mode network (DMN), which is essential to normal cognition. Our objective is to identify functional and structural connectivity differences in the posteromedial cortex related to late preterm birth. Methods Thirty-eight preadolescents (ages 9–13; 19 born in the late preterm period (≥32 weeks gestational age) and 19 at term) without access to advanced neonatal care were recruited from a low socioeconomic status community in Brazil. Participants underwent neurocognitive testing, 3-dimensional T1-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging and resting state functional MRI (RS-fMRI). Seed-based probabilistic diffusion tractography and RS-fMRI analyses were performed using unilateral seeds within the posterior DMN (posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus) and lateral parietal DMN (superior marginal and angular gyri). Results Late preterm children demonstrated increased functional connectivity within the posterior default mode networks and increased anti-correlation with the central-executive network when seeded from the posteromedial cortex (PMC). Key differences were demonstrated between PMC components with increased anti-correlation with the salience network seen only with posterior cingulate cortex seeding but not with precuneus seeding. Probabilistic tractography showed increased streamlines within the right inferior longitudinal fasciculus and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus within late preterm children while decreased intrahemispheric streamlines were also observed. No significant differences in neurocognitive testing were demonstrated between groups. Conclusion Late preterm preadolescence is associated with altered functional connectivity from the PMC and lateral parietal cortex to known distributed functional cortical networks despite no significant executive neurocognitive differences. Selective increased structural connectivity was observed in the setting of decreased posterior interhemispheric connections. Future work is needed to determine if these findings represent a compensatory adaptation employing alternate neural circuitry or could reflect subtle pathology resulting in emotional processing deficits not seen with neurocognitive testing. PMID:26098888

Effective Connectivity of Cortical Sensorimotor Networks During Finger Movement Tasks: A Simultaneous fNIRS, fMRI, EEG Study.

PubMed

Anwar, A R; Muthalib, M; Perrey, S; Galka, A; Granert, O; Wolff, S; Heute, U; Deuschl, G; Raethjen, J; Muthuraman, Muthuraman

2016-09-01

Recently, interest has been growing to understand the underlying dynamic directional relationship between simultaneously activated regions of the brain during motor task performance. Such directionality analysis (or effective connectivity analysis), based on non-invasive electrophysiological (electroencephalography-EEG) and hemodynamic (functional near infrared spectroscopy-fNIRS; and functional magnetic resonance imaging-fMRI) neuroimaging modalities can provide an estimate of the motor task-related information flow from one brain region to another. Since EEG, fNIRS and fMRI modalities achieve different spatial and temporal resolutions of motor-task related activation in the brain, the aim of this study was to determine the effective connectivity of cortico-cortical sensorimotor networks during finger movement tasks measured by each neuroimaging modality. Nine healthy subjects performed right hand finger movement tasks of different complexity (simple finger tapping-FT, simple finger sequence-SFS, and complex finger sequence-CFS). We focused our observations on three cortical regions of interest (ROIs), namely the contralateral sensorimotor cortex (SMC), the contralateral premotor cortex (PMC) and the contralateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). We estimated the effective connectivity between these ROIs using conditional Granger causality (GC) analysis determined from the time series signals measured by fMRI (blood oxygenation level-dependent-BOLD), fNIRS (oxygenated-O2Hb and deoxygenated-HHb hemoglobin), and EEG (scalp and source level analysis) neuroimaging modalities. The effective connectivity analysis showed significant bi-directional information flow between the SMC, PMC, and DLPFC as determined by the EEG (scalp and source), fMRI (BOLD) and fNIRS (O2Hb and HHb) modalities for all three motor tasks. However the source level EEG GC values were significantly greater than the other modalities. In addition, only the source level EEG showed a significantly greater forward than backward information flow between the ROIs. This simultaneous fMRI, fNIRS and EEG study has shown through independent GC analysis of the respective time series that a bi-directional effective connectivity occurs within a cortico-cortical sensorimotor network (SMC, PMC and DLPFC) during finger movement tasks.

Role of dietary habits and diet in caries occurrence and severity among urban adolescent school children

PubMed Central

Punitha, V. C.; Amudhan, A.; Sivaprakasam, P.; Rathanaprabu, V.

2015-01-01

To identify the role of dietary habits (type of diet, skipping meals, snacking in-between meals and frequency of visits to fast food restaurants) in caries occurrence and severity. To explore the correlation between frequency of intake of selected foods and dental caries. A cross-sectional study was carried out on adolescent children (n = 916) of age 13-19, following a two-stage random sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested questionnaire. Questionnaire included demographic details, dietary habits of children and food frequency table that listed selected food items. The dependent variable-dental caries was measured using the decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) index. The prevalence of dental caries in this study population was 36.7% (95% confidence interval: 33.58-39.82). The mean DMFT was 1.01 (±1.74). No statistically significant difference found between caries occurrence and type of diet (P = 0.07), skipping meals (P = 0.86), frequency of eating in fast food stalls (0.86) and snacking in between meals (0.08). Mean DMFT values were higher among nonvegetarians and among children who had the habit of snacking in between meals. Frequency of intake of selected food items showed that mean frequency intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery was higher among children who presented with caries when compared to caries-free children (P = 0.000). Significant correlation found between mean DMFT and mean frequency intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery. Odds ratios were calculated for the same for frequency ≥4 times/day for confectionery and ≥4/week for carbonated drinks and results discussed. Frequent intake of carbonated drinks and confectionery is harmful to oral health that eventually reflects on general health. Educating the adolescent children on healthy dietary habits should be put in the forefront. PMID:26015737

Characteristics of the fractional cloud cover and its altitude distribution over the Indian Ocean region derived from NOAA14-AVHRR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suresh Raju, C.; Rajeev, K.; Parameswaran, K.

The climatic impact of clouds and their role in energy and radiation budget of earth-atmosphere system largely depends on the cloud properties and its altitude of occurrence. The quantitative estimates of spatio-temporal variations of cloud fraction and cloud properties are limited over the tropical Indian Oceanic region. Cloudiness and its radiative properties over this region is significantly different from other tropical regions indicating the need for their detailed studies. This has an important role in the Indian summer monsoon which is also a part of the global climate system. Daily, monthly, seasonal and yearly mean frequency of occurrence of total and high altitude clouds are derived from the brightness temperature (TB) obtained from NOAA14-AVHRR data during the period of 1996-1999, and their spatio-temporal variations are investigated. The inversion algorithm used here is similar to the CLIVAR algorithm applied by ISCCP. All clouds with TB quad < 250 K are classified as high clouds, as their altitude of occurrence will be above ˜ 6 km. The clouds above ˜ 10 km (with TB<220K) are also classified separately to study the deep convective events. The geographical distribution of monthly, seasonal and annual mean frequency of occurrence of total cloud (Ftot) and high cloud (Fh) are remarkably consistent from year to year, though the absolute magnitude of the frequency of occurrence can vary by as much as 30%. The highest annual variations in Ftot and Fh are observed near the eastern parts of Bay of Bengal. The average amplitude of the annual cycle in Ftot in this region is ˜ 40%. During the south-west monsoon season, the monthly mean of Ftot shows very large spatial gradients in the western Arabian Sea. In July, the Ftot varies from less than 20% near Arabian coastal regions to more than 75% at a location 10 degrees east of the Arabian coast. Similar gradients in Ftot are also observed between the equator and 10 S. One of the very striking features in Ftot during this period is the minimum cloudiness observed around Srilanka during the Indian summer monsoon season, which is more discernable in high clouds. The cloud occurrence over the Indian subcontinent is less than 20% during the period of December to March. The presence of double inter tropical convergence zone (ITCZ), characterized by large cloud bands that are confined in latitude and elongated in longitude, are observed over Indian Ocean during November to March period, though the frequency of occurrence of such events is very small.

Spread-F occurrences and relationships with foF2 and h'F at low- and mid-latitudes in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ning; Guo, Lixin; Zhao, Zhenwei; Ding, Zonghua; Lin, Leke

2018-04-01

Ionospheric irregularities are an important phenomenon in scientific studies and applications of radio-wave propagation. Spread-F echoes in ionograms are a type of high-frequency band irregularities that include frequency spread-F (FSF), range spread-F (RSF), and mixed spread-F (MSF) events. In this study, we obtained spread-F data from four ionosondes at low- and mid-latitudes near the 120°E chain in China during the 23rd solar cycle. We used these data to investigate spread-F occurrence percentages and variations with local time, season, latitude, and solar activity. The four ionosondes were located at Haikou (HK) (20°N, 110.34°E), Guangzhou (GZ) (23.14°N, 113.36°E), Beijing (BJ) (40.11°N, 116.28°E), and Changchun (CC) (43.84°N, 125.28°E). We also present possible correlations between spread-Fs and other ionospheric parameters, such as the critical frequency of the F2-layer (foF2) and the virtual height of the bottom-side F-layer (h'F). In particular, we investigated the possible threshold of the foF2 affecting the FSF and the relationship between the h'F and the RSF. The main conclusions are as follows: (a) the FSF occurrence percentages were anti-correlated with solar activity at all four sites; meanwhile, RSF occurrence rates increased with the increase in solar activity at HK, but not at the other three sites; (b) FSF occurrence rates were larger at the mid-latitudes than expected, while FSFs occurred more often after midnight; (c) the highest FSF occurrence rates mostly appeared during the summer months, while RSFs occurred mostly in the equinoctial months of 2000-2002 at HK and GZ; (d) a lower foF2 was suitable for FSF events; nevertheless, h'F and RSF occurrences satisfied the parabolic relationship; (e) the foF2 thresholds for FSFs were 15, 14, 7.6, and 7.8 MHz at HK, GZ, BJ, and CC, respectively. The h'Fs occurring between 240 and 290 km were more favorable for RSF occurrences. These results are important for understanding ionospheric irregularity variations in eastern Asia and for improving space weather modeling and forecasting capabilities[Figure not available: see fulltext.] .

The Effect of Word Frequency on Phonemic Accuracy in Children with Cochlear Implants and Peers with Typical Levels of Hearing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Faes, Jolien; Gillis, Joris; Gillis, Steven

2017-01-01

The frequency of occurrence of words and sounds has a pervasive influence on typically developing children's language acquisition. For instance, highly frequent words appear earliest in a child's lexicon, and highly frequent phonemes are produced more accurately. This study evaluates (a) whether word frequency influences word accuracy and (b)…

[Adverse effects of drugs in intensive care units: analysis of the administration of electrolyte solutions and antibiotics].

PubMed

Manenti, S; Chaves, A B; Leopoldino, R S; Padilha, K G

1998-12-01

The aims of this study were: 1) to verify the incidence of adverse occurrences (AOs) with medication related to the time of electrolyte solutions infusion and the frequency of doses of antibiotics prescribed and administered to the patients; 2) to characterize the nature of those occurrences. The study was developed in two ICUs of a general hospital of São Paulo City. The population was composed by 51 patients that were in the ICUs in August of 1996. Sixty percent of the patients were older than 60 years, 58.8% were women, 49.1% remained in ICU from 1 to 4 days and 41.2% went to the Intermediate Care Units after ICU. Regarding the incidence of AOs related to the time of administration of the electrolyte solutions and the frequency of doses of antibiotics the non execution of the patient's medical prescriptions was verified in 76.3% and 38.8% respectively. The largest frequency of irregularities with the electrolyte solutions (60.2%) was the infusion faster than the prescribed time followed by the reduction of the number of doses of antibiotics administered. Taking these into consideration we have to invest in preventive measures to reduce those occurrences.

Seroprevalence occurrence of viral hepatitis and HIV among hemodialysis patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamal, Inass Mahmood; Mutar Mahdi, Batool

2018-05-01

Patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) were on maintenance invasive haemodialysis (HD) procedure. This procedure by itself affects immunity of the patients and they become more susceptible to viral infections. We investigate the occurrence of HBV HCV and HIV infections in patients with hemodialysis. A retrospective study of 430 endstage renal failure patients referred to hemodialysis department at AlKindy Teaching Hospital Baghdad, Iraq from January 2015 to January 2017 was conducted. Patients were investigated for HBsAg using enzymelabeled antigen test (ForesightEIAUSA) HCV Abs (IgG) specific immunoglobulin using a HCV enzymelabeled antigen test (ForesightEIAUSA) and anti HIV Abs (IgG) using enzymelabeled antigen test (ForesightEIAUSA). The frequency of HBV infection in the first year was not significant between males (111%) and females (000%)(P = 0295). About HCV also there are no significant differences between males (1263%) and females (931%)(P = 0347). After one year of follow up the frequencies of HBV and HCV were not significant between two sexes. Additionally none of the patients had an HIV infection. This study brings to light that HBV and HCV have the same frequencies in both genders and lower occurrence with time. Furthermore HIV was not detected in those patients.

Bruxism in craniocervical dystonia: a prospective study.

PubMed

Borie, Laetitia; Langbour, Nicolas; Guehl, Dominique; Burbaud, Pierre; Ella, Bruno

2016-09-01

Bruxism pathophysiology remains unclear, and its occurrence has been poorly investigated in movement disorders. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of bruxism in patients with craniocervical dystonia vs. normal controls and to determine its associated clinical features. This is a prospective-control study. A total of 114 dystonic subjects (45 facial dystonia, 69 cervical dystonia) and 182 controls were included. Bruxism was diagnosed using a hetero-questionnaire and a clinical examination performed by trained dentists. Occurrence of bruxism was compared between the different study populations. A binomial logistic regression analysis was used to determine which clinical features influenced bruxism occurrence in each population. The frequency of bruxism was significantly higher in the dystonic group than in normal controls but there was no difference between facial and cervical dystonia. It was also higher in women than in men. Bruxism features were similar between normal controls and dystonic patients except for a higher score of temporomandibular jaw pain in the dystonic group. The higher frequency of bruxism in dystonic patients suggests that bruxism is increased in patients with basal ganglia dysfunction but that its nature does not differ from that seen in bruxers from the normal population.

Using the Daydreaming Frequency Scale to Investigate the Relationships between Mind-Wandering, Psychological Well-Being, and Present-Moment Awareness

PubMed Central

Stawarczyk, David; Majerus, Steve; Van der Linden, Martial; D’Argembeau, Arnaud

2012-01-01

Recent findings have shown that mind-wandering – the occurrence of stimulus-independent and task-unrelated thoughts – is associated with negative affect and lower psychological well-being. However, it remains unclear whether this relationship is due to the occurrence of mind-wandering per se or to the fact that people who mind wander more tend to be generally less attentive to present-moment experience. In three studies, we first validate a French translation of a retrospective self-report questionnaire widely used to assess the general occurrence of mind-wandering in daily life – the Daydreaming Frequency Scale. Using this questionnaire, we then show that the relationship between mind-wandering frequency and psychological distress is fully accounted for by individual differences in dispositional mindful awareness and encoding style. These findings suggest that it may not be mind-wandering per se that is responsible for psychological distress, but rather the general tendency to be less aware and attentive to the present-moment. Thus, although mind-wandering and present-moment awareness are related constructs, they are not reducible to one another, and are distinguishable in terms of their relationship with psychological well-being. PMID:23055995

An Analysis of the Most Frequently Occurring Words in Spoken American English.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plant, Geoff

1999-01-01

A study analyzed frequency of occurrence of consonants, vowels, and diphthongs, syllabic structure of the words, and segmental structure of the 311 monosyllabic words of 500 words that occur most frequently in English. Three mannerisms of articulation accounted for nearly 75 percent of all consonant occurrences: stops, semi-vowels, and nasals.…

The Limitations of Term Co-Occurrence Data for Query Expansion in Document Retrieval Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peat, Helen J.; Willett, Peter

1991-01-01

Identifies limitations in the use of term co-occurrence data as a basis for automatic query expansion in natural language document retrieval systems. The use of similarity coefficients to calculate the degree of similarity between pairs of terms is explained, and frequency and discriminatory characteristics for nearest neighbors of query terms are…

Frequency and severity of sexual harassment in pharmacy practice in Ohio.

PubMed

Broedel-Zaugg, K; Shaffer, V; Mawer, M; Sullivan, D L

1999-01-01

To determine the frequency and severity of sexual harassment in the pharmacy workplace for both male and female pharmacists, and to identify: (1) instigators, (2) places of occurrence, and (3) pharmacists' responses. Mailed survey using elements of the Sexual Experience Questionnaire (SEQ). One repeat mailing to nonrespondents. Community pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, other pharmacies in the state of Ohio. 789 randomly selected pharmacists registered in Ohio. Not applicable. Amount of gender harassment, unwanted sexual attention, and sexual coercion; differences in occurrences of sexual harassment between men and women; identification of instigators as colleagues, patients, or supervisors; identification of place of occurrence as community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, or elsewhere; pharmacists' responses and reactions. After two mailings, 265 usable surveys were returned for a response rate of 34%. Women differed significantly from men in total occurrences of sexual harassment, with men reporting 183 instances of sexual harassment and women reporting 281 such experiences. Instigators were colleagues (43%), patients (30%), and superiors (27%). Men reported 143 experiences of unwanted sexual attention, whereas women reported 272 such occurrences. Colleagues were responsible for 47% of instances of unwanted sexual attention, patients were responsible for 37%, and superiors 16%. No significant differences were found between men and women in total number of occurrences of sexual coercion. Sexual harassment in the workplace has been experienced by both male and female pharmacists. Women experienced more hostile work environment harassment than did men. However, quid pro quo harassment did not differ significantly between the sexes.

Use of regionalisation approach to develop fire frequency curves for Victoria, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khastagir, Anirban; Jayasuriya, Niranjali; Bhuyian, Muhammed A.

2017-11-01

It is important to perform fire frequency analysis to obtain fire frequency curves (FFC) based on fire intensity at different parts of Victoria. In this paper fire frequency curves (FFCs) were derived based on forest fire danger index (FFDI). FFDI is a measure related to fire initiation, spreading speed and containment difficulty. The mean temperature (T), relative humidity (RH) and areal extent of open water (LC2) during summer months (Dec-Feb) were identified as the most important parameters for assessing the risk of occurrence of bushfire. Based on these parameters, Andrews' curve equation was applied to 40 selected meteorological stations to identify homogenous stations to form unique clusters. A methodology using peak FFDI from cluster averaged FFDIs was developed by applying Log Pearson Type III (LPIII) distribution to generate FFCs. A total of nine homogeneous clusters across Victoria were identified, and subsequently their FFC's were developed in order to estimate the regionalised fire occurrence characteristics.

Linking Low-Frequency Large-Scale Circulation Patterns to Cold Air Outbreak Formation in the Northeastern North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papritz, L.; Grams, C. M.

2018-03-01

The regional variability of wintertime marine cold air outbreaks (CAOs) in the northeastern North Atlantic is studied focusing on the role of weather regimes in modulating the large-scale circulation. Each regime is characterized by a typical CAO frequency anomaly pattern and a corresponding imprint in air-sea heat fluxes. Cyclonically dominated regimes, Greenland blocking and the Atlantic ridge regime are found to provide favorable conditions for CAO formation in at least one major sea of the study region; CAO occurrence is suppressed, however, by blocked regimes whose associated anticyclones are centered over northern Europe (European / Scandinavian blocking). Kinematic trajectories reveal that strength and location of the storm tracks are closely linked to the pathways of CAO air masses and, thus, CAO occurrence. Finally, CAO frequencies are also linked to the strength of the stratospheric polar vortex, which is understood in terms of associated variations in the frequency of weather regimes.

Relationships among cloud occurrence frequency, overlap, and effective thickness derived from CALIPSO and CloudSat merged cloud vertical profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, Seiji; Sun-Mack, Sunny; Miller, Walter F.; Rose, Fred G.; Chen, Yan; Minnis, Patrick; Wielicki, Bruce A.

2010-01-01

A cloud frequency of occurrence matrix is generated using merged cloud vertical profiles derived from the satellite-borne Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) and cloud profiling radar. The matrix contains vertical profiles of cloud occurrence frequency as a function of the uppermost cloud top. It is shown that the cloud fraction and uppermost cloud top vertical profiles can be related by a cloud overlap matrix when the correlation length of cloud occurrence, which is interpreted as an effective cloud thickness, is introduced. The underlying assumption in establishing the above relation is that cloud overlap approaches random overlap with increasing distance separating cloud layers and that the probability of deviating from random overlap decreases exponentially with distance. One month of Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) and CloudSat data (July 2006) support these assumptions, although the correlation length sometimes increases with separation distance when the cloud top height is large. The data also show that the correlation length depends on cloud top hight and the maximum occurs when the cloud top height is 8 to 10 km. The cloud correlation length is equivalent to the decorrelation distance introduced by Hogan and Illingworth (2000) when cloud fractions of both layers in a two-cloud layer system are the same. The simple relationships derived in this study can be used to estimate the top-of-atmosphere irradiance difference caused by cloud fraction, uppermost cloud top, and cloud thickness vertical profile differences.

Habitat stability and occurrences of malaria vector larvae in western Kenya highlands.

PubMed

Himeidan, Yousif E; Zhou, Guofa; Yakob, Laith; Afrane, Yaw; Munga, Stephen; Atieli, Harrysone; El-Rayah, El-Amin; Githeko, Andrew K; Yan, Guiyun

2009-10-21

Although the occurrence of malaria vector larvae in the valleys of western Kenya highlands is well documented, knowledge of larval habitats in the uphill sites is lacking. Given that most inhabitants of the highlands actually dwell in the uphill regions, it is important to develop understanding of mosquito breeding habitat stability in these sites in order to determine their potential for larval control. A total of 128 potential larval habitats were identified in hilltops and along the seasonal streams in the Sigalagala area of Kakamega district, western Kenya. Water availability in the habitats was followed up daily from August 3, 2006 to February 23, 2007. A habitat is defined as stable when it remains aquatic continuously for at least 12 d. Mosquito larvae were observed weekly. Frequencies of aquatic, stable and larvae positive habitats were compared between the hilltop and seasonal stream area using chi2-test. Factors affecting the presence/absence of Anopheles gambiae larvae in the highlands were determined using multiple logistic regression analysis. Topography significantly affected habitat availability and stability. The occurrence of aquatic habitats in the hilltop was more sporadic than in the stream area. The percentage of habitat occurrences that were classified as stable during the rainy season is 48.76% and 80.79% respectively for the hilltop and stream area. Corresponding frequencies of larvae positive habitats were 0% in the hilltop and 5.91% in the stream area. After the rainy season, only 23.42% of habitat occurrences were stable and 0.01% larvae positive habitats were found in the hilltops, whereas 89.75% of occurrences remained stable in the stream area resulting in a frequency of 12.21% larvae positive habitats. The logistic regression analysis confirmed the association between habitat stability and larval occurrence and indicated that habitat surface area was negatively affecting the occurrence of An. gambiae larvae. While An. gambiae and An. funestus larvae occurred throughout the study period along the streams, a total of only 15 An. gambiae larvae were counted in the hilltops, and no An. funestus were found. Moreover, no larvae managed to develop into adults in the hilltops, and the density of adult An. gambiae was consistently low, averaging at 0.06 females per house per survey. The occurrence of malaria vector larvae in the hilltop area was uncommon as a result of the low availability and high instability of habitats. To optimize the cost-effectiveness of malaria interventions in the western Kenya highlands, larval control should be focused primarily along the streams, as these are likely the only productive habitats at high altitude.

Relationships between rainfall and Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) occurrences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mailhot, A.; Talbot, G.; Lavallée, B.

2015-04-01

Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) has been recognized as a major environmental issue in many countries. In Canada, the proposed reinforcement of the CSO frequency regulations will result in new constraints on municipal development. Municipalities will have to demonstrate that new developments do not increase CSO frequency above a reference level based on historical CSO records. Governmental agencies will also have to define a framework to assess the impact of new developments on CSO frequency and the efficiency of the various proposed measures to maintain CSO frequency at its historic level. In such a context, it is important to correctly assess the average number of days with CSO and to define relationships between CSO frequency and rainfall characteristics. This paper investigates such relationships using available CSO and rainfall datasets for Quebec. CSO records for 4285 overflow structures (OS) were analyzed. A simple model based on rainfall thresholds was developed to forecast the occurrence of CSO on a given day based on daily rainfall values. The estimated probability of days with CSO have been used to estimate the rainfall threshold value at each OS by imposing that the probability of exceeding this rainfall value for a given day be equal to the estimated probability of days with CSO. The forecast skill of this model was assessed for 3437 OS using contingency tables. The statistical significance of the forecast skill could be assessed for 64.2% of these OS. The threshold model has demonstrated significant forecast skill for 91.3% of these OS confirming that for most OS a simple threshold model can be used to assess the occurrence of CSO.

Heating uniformity and differential heating of insects in almonds associated with radio frequency energy

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Radio frequency (RF) treatments have potential as alternatives to chemical fumigation for phytosanitary disinfestation treatments in the dried nut industry. To develop effective RF treatment protocols for almonds, it is desirable to determine heating uniformity and the occurrence of differential hea...

1,000 Spanish Idioms.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, J. Dale

The idioms, rated numerically on frequency of occurrence and prevailing usage, are presented with an illustrative example and English translation. An alphabetical listing of the English translations of the Spanish idioms includes reference to page citation and frequency of usage. Appendixes contain a sample evaluation sheet used in the selection…

Plate Deformation Behavior of Polymer Matrix Composite-Ti Honeycomb-Metal Sandwiches for Pressurized Propulsion Component Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bertelsen, William D.; Shin, E. eugene; Thesken, John C.; Sutter, James K.; Martin, Rich

2004-01-01

THe objectives are: 1. To experimentally validate bi-axial plate flexural performance of PMC-Ti H/C-A286 sandwich panels for the internally pressurized RBCC combustion chamber support structure. 2. To explore ASTM 2-D plate flexure test (D 6416) to simulate the internal pressure loading and to correlate the results with analytical and FE modeling based on 2-D flexure properties.

Targeting Master Regulators of the Breast Cancer Metastasis Transcriptome

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-01

angiogenesis 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT 18 . NUMBER OF PAGES 19a. NAME OF RESPONSIBLE PERSON USAMRMC a. REPORT... glioblastoma and other human cancers. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA 106, 9435-9440. PMCID: PMC2687998. 8. Selvaraju Veeriah...Mellinghoff, David B. Solit, Timothy A. Chan (2010) Somatic mutations of the Parkinson’s Disease gene PARK2 in glioblastoma and other human

Electrical power system WP-04

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nored, Donald L.

Viewgraphs on Space Station Freedom Electrical Power System (EPS) WP-40 are presented. Topics covered include: key EPS technical requirements; photovoltaic power module systems; solar array assembly; blanket containment box and box positioning subassemblies; solar cell; bypass diode assembly; Kapton with atomic oxygen resistant coating; sequential shunt unit; gimbal assembly; energy storage subsystem; thermal control subsystem; direct current switching unit; integrated equipment assembly; PV cargo element; PMAD system; and PMC and AC architecture.

Electrical power system WP-04

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nored, Donald L.

1990-01-01

Viewgraphs on Space Station Freedom Electrical Power System (EPS) WP-40 are presented. Topics covered include: key EPS technical requirements; photovoltaic power module systems; solar array assembly; blanket containment box and box positioning subassemblies; solar cell; bypass diode assembly; Kapton with atomic oxygen resistant coating; sequential shunt unit; gimbal assembly; energy storage subsystem; thermal control subsystem; direct current switching unit; integrated equipment assembly; PV cargo element; PMAD system; and PMC and AC architecture.

CMMI for Services (CMMI-SVC) Overview Presentation

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-10-01

processes 5 CMMI for Services (CMMI-SVC) Overview Forrester, 2008 © 2008 Carnegie Mellon University Why is the CMMI-SVC needed? Service providers...Project Management (IPM) • Project Monitoring and Control (PMC) • Project Planning (PP) • Requirements Management (REQM) • Risk Management (RSKM...contact, and your resume reflecting 5 or more years of service experience to cmmi- svc-app@sei.cmu.edu . 2. Fill out the sponsorship form here: http

Agent Based Modeling and Simulation Framework for Supply Chain Risk Management

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

Christopher and Peck 2004) macroeconomic , policy, competition, and resource (Ghoshal 1987) value chain, operational, event, and recurring (Shi 2004...clustering algorithms in agent logic to protect company privacy ( da Silva et al. 2006), aggregation of domain context in agent data analysis logic (Xiang...Operational Availability ( OA ) for FMC and PMC. 75 Mission Capable (MICAP) Hours is the measure of total time (in a month) consumable or reparable

Targeting Nuclear EGFR: Strategies for Improving Cetuximab Therapy in Lung Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

Triple - negative breast cancer Mol Cancer Ther. 2014 May;13(5):1356-68. PMID: 24634415, PMCID: PMC4013210 6. Brand, TM, Iida, M...Receptor Is a Functional Molecular Target in Triple - Negative Breast Cancer . Molecular cancer therapeutics (2014). 11 26. Iida, M., Brand, T.M...2014). Brand, T.M., et al. Nuclear epidermal growth factor receptor is a functional molecular target in triple - negative breast cancer .

Warpage of QFN Package in Post Mold Cure Process of integrated circuit packaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sriwithoon, Nattha; Ugsornrat, Kessararat; Srisuwitthanon, Warayoot; Thonglor, Panakamon

2017-09-01

This research studied about warpage of QFN package in post mold cure process of integrated circuit (IC) packages using pre-plated (PPF) leadframe. For IC package, epoxy molding compound (EMC) are molded by cross linking of compound stiffness but incomplete crosslinked network and leading the fully cured thermoset by post mold cure (PMC) process. The cure temperature of PMC can change microstructure of EMC in term of stress inside the package and effect to warpage of the package due to coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) between EMC and leadframe. In experiment, cure temperatures were varied to check the effect of internal stress due to different cure temperature after completed post mold cure for TDFN 2×3 8L. The cure temperature were varied with 180 °C, 170 °C, 160 °C, and 150°C with cure time 4 and 6 hours, respectively. For analysis, the TDFN 2×3 8L packages were analyzed the warpage by thickness gauge and scanning acoustic microscope (SAM) after take the test samples out from the oven cure. The results confirmed that effect of different CTE between EMC and leadframe due to different cure temperature resulting to warpage of the TDFN 2×3 8L packages.

Identifying strengths and weaknesses of Quality Management Unit University of Sumatera Utara software using SCAMPI C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunawan, D.; Amalia, A.; Rahmat, R. F.; Muchtar, M. A.; Siregar, I.

2018-02-01

Identification of software maturity level is a technique to determine the quality of the software. By identifying the software maturity level, the weaknesses of the software can be observed. As a result, the recommendations might be a reference for future software maintenance and development. This paper discusses the software Capability Level (CL) with case studies on Quality Management Unit (Unit Manajemen Mutu) University of Sumatera Utara (UMM-USU). This research utilized Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement class C (SCAMPI C) model with continuous representation. This model focuses on activities for developing quality products and services. The observation is done in three process areas, such as Project Planning (PP), Project Monitoring and Control (PMC), and Requirements Management (REQM). According to the measurement of software capability level for UMM-USU software, turns out that the capability level for the observed process area is in the range of CL1 and CL2. Planning Project (PP) is the only process area which reaches capability level 2, meanwhile, PMC and REQM are still in CL 1 or in performed level. This research reveals several weaknesses of existing UMM-USU software. Therefore, this study proposes several recommendations for UMM-USU to improve capability level for observed process areas.

Posttest data analysis and assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1 with data from a Full Integral Simulation Test (FIST) power transient experiment

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

Wheatley, P.D.; Wagner, K.C.

The FIST power transient test 6PMC2 was analyzed to further the understanding of the FIST facility and provide an assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1. FIST power transient 6PMC2 investigated the thermal-hydraulic response following inadvertent closure of the main steam isolation valve and the subsequent failure of the reactor to scram. Failure of the high pressure core spray system was also assumed, resulting on only the reactor core isolation cooling flow for inventory makeup during the transient. The experiment was a sensitivity study with relatively high core power and low makeup rates. This study provides one of the first opportunities to assess TRAC-BD1/MOD1more » under power transient and natural circulation conditions with data from a facility with prototypical BWR geometry. The power transient test was analyzed with emphasis on the following phenomena; (a) the system pressure response, (b) the natural circulation flows and rates, and (c) the heater rod cladding temperature response. Based on the results of this study, TRAC-BD1/MOD1 can be expected to calculate the thermal-hydraulic behavior of a BWR during a power transient.« less

Literature evidence in open targets - a target validation platform.

PubMed

Kafkas, Şenay; Dunham, Ian; McEntyre, Johanna

2017-06-06

We present the Europe PMC literature component of Open Targets - a target validation platform that integrates various evidence to aid drug target identification and validation. The component identifies target-disease associations in documents and ranks the documents based on their confidence from the Europe PMC literature database, by using rules utilising expert-provided heuristic information. The confidence score of a given document represents how valuable the document is in the scope of target validation for a given target-disease association by taking into account the credibility of the association based on the properties of the text. The component serves the platform regularly with the up-to-date data since December, 2015. Currently, there are a total number of 1168365 distinct target-disease associations text mined from >26 million PubMed abstracts and >1.2 million Open Access full text articles. Our comparative analyses on the current available evidence data in the platform revealed that 850179 of these associations are exclusively identified by literature mining. This component helps the platform's users by providing the most relevant literature hits for a given target and disease. The text mining evidence along with the other types of evidence can be explored visually through https://www.targetvalidation.org and all the evidence data is available for download in json format from https://www.targetvalidation.org/downloads/data .

Restructured Freedom configuration characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Troutman, Patrick A.; Heck, Michael L.; Kumar, Renjith R.; Mazanek, Daniel D.

1991-01-01

In Jan. 1991, the LaRc SSFO performed an assessment of the configuration characteristics of the proposed pre-integrated Space Station Freedom (SSF) concept. Of particular concern was the relationship of solar array operation and orientation with respect to spacecraft controllability. For the man-tended configuration (MTC), it was determined that torque equilibrium attitude (TEA) seeking Control Moment Gyroscope (CMG) control laws could not always maintain attitude. The control problems occurred when the solar arrays were tracking the sun to produce full power while flying in an arrow or gravity gradient flight mode. The large solar array articulations that sometimes result from having the functions of the alpha and beta joints reversed on MTC induced large product of inertia changes that can invalidate the control system gains during an orbit. Several modified sun tracking techniques were evaluated with respect to producing a controllable configuration requiring no modifications to the CMG control algorithms. Another assessment involved the permanently manned configuration (PMC) which has a third asymmetric PV unit on one side of the transverse boom. Recommendations include constraining alpha rotations for MTC in the arrow and gravity gradient flight modes and perhaps developing new non-TEA seeking control laws. Recommendations for PMC include raising the operational altitude and moving to a symmetric configuration as soon as possible.

An Approach to Processable Polyimides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gariepy, Christopher A.; Eby, R. K.; Meador, Michael A.

1999-01-01

The use of polymer matrix composites (PMC's) in aircraft engines can lead to substantial weight savings over metals. This weight reduction correlates into better fuel economy, increased speed, and increased passenger load. Typically, high performance PMC's possess high thermal-oxidative stabilities (TOS) and high glass transition temperatures (Tg's) to withstand temperatures up to 316 C (600 F). One of the leading high temperature resins system available today is PMR-15 (Polymerization of Monomeric Reactants, MW=1500). This thermosetting polyimide utilizes addition curing through polymer endcaps which enables hand lay-up processing of carbon fiber composite parts with low void contents. However, the large amount of hand labor raises manufacturing costs and prohibits the use of PMR-15 in many aerospace applications. Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) provides an economical alternative, but it requires a melt Viscosity of less than 10(exp 3) centipoise (cP). This is much lower than the minimum melt viscosity of PMR-15 (about 10(exp 6) cP). To improve the processability of polyimides, the polymer backbone can be modified by incorporating flexible linkages, such as branching. bulky pendant groups, kinked structures, and twisted or non-coplanar moietes . The focus of this paper will be the introduction of non-coplanar biaryls into the PMR polyimide backbone to increase processability while maintaining high temperature performance.

Face-Sheet Quality Analysis and Thermo-Physical Property Characterization of OOA and Autoclave Panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Sandi G.; Lort, Richard D., III; Zimmerman, Thomas J.; Sutter, James K.; Pelham, Larry I.; McCorkle, Linda S.; Scheiman, Daniel A.

2012-01-01

Increased application of polymer matrix composite (PMC) materials in large vehicle structures requires consideration of non-autoclave manufacturing technology. The NASA Composites for Exploration project, and its predecessor, Lightweight Spacecraft Structures and Materials project, were tasked with the development of materials and manufacturing processes for structures that will perform in a heavy-lift-launch vehicle environment. Both autoclave and out of autoclave processable materials were considered. Large PMC structures envisioned for such a vehicle included the payload shroud and the interstage connector. In this study, composite sandwich panels representing 1/16th segments of the barrel section of the Ares V rocket fairing were prepared as 1.8 m x 2.4 m sections of the 10 m diameter arc segment. IM7/977-3 was used as the face-sheet prepreg of the autoclave processed panels and T40-800B/5320-1 for the out of autoclave panels. The core was 49.7 kg/sq m (3.1 lb/cu ft (pcf)) aluminum honeycomb. Face-sheets were fabricated by automated tape laying 153 mm wide unidirectional tape. This work details analysis of the manufactured panels where face-sheet quality was characterized by optical microscopy, cured ply thickness measurements, acid digestion, and thermal analysis.

Face-Sheet Quality Analysis and Thermo-Physical Property Characterization of OOA and Autoclave Panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Sandi G.; Lort, Richard D., III; Zimmerman, Thomas J.; Sutter, James K.; Pelham, Larry I.; McCorkle, Linda S.; Scheiman, Daniel A.

2012-01-01

Increased application of polymer matrix composite (PMC) materials in large vehicle structures requires consideration of non-autoclave manufacturing technology. The NASA Composites for Exploration project, and its predecessor, Lightweight Spacecraft Structures and Materials project, were tasked with the development of materials and manufacturing processes for structures that will perform in a heavy-lift-launch vehicle environment. Both autoclave and out of autoclave processable materials were considered. Large PMC structures envisioned for such a vehicle included the payload shroud and the interstage connector. In this study, composite sandwich panels representing 1/16th segments of the barrel section of the Ares V rocket fairing were prepared as 1.8 m x 2.4 m sections of the 10 m diameter arc segment. IM7/977-3 was used as the face-sheet prepreg of the autoclave processed panels and T40-800B/5320-1 for the out of autoclave panels. The core was 49.7 kilograms per square meters (3.1 pounds per cubic feet (pcf)) aluminum honeycomb. Face-sheets were fabricated by automated tape laying 153 mm wide unidirectional tape. This work details analysis of the manufactured panels where face-sheet quality was characterized by optical microscopy, cured ply thickness measurements, acid digestion, and thermal analysis.

An Aristotelian Account of Minimal Chemical Life

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bedau, Mark A.

2010-12-01

This paper addresses the open philosophical and scientific problem of explaining and defining life. This problem is controversial, and there is nothing approaching a consensus about what life is. This raises a philosophical meta-question: Why is life so controversial and so difficult to define? This paper proposes that we can attribute a significant part of the controversy over life to use of a Cartesian approach to explaining life, which seeks necessary and sufficient conditions for being an individual living organism, out of the context of other organisms and the abiotic environment. The Cartesian approach contrasts with an Aristotelian approach to explaining life, which considers life only in the whole context in which it actually exists, looks at the characteristic phenomena involving actual life, and seeks the deepest and most unified explanation for those phenomena. The phenomena of life might be difficult to delimit precisely, but it certainly includes life's characteristic hallmarks, borderline cases, and puzzles. The Program-Metabolism-Container (PMC) model construes minimal chemical life as a functionally integrated triad of chemical systems, which are identified as the Program, Metabolism, and Container. Rasmussen diagrams precisely depict the functional definition of minimal chemical life. The PMC model illustrates the Aristotelian approach to life, because it explains eight of life's hallmarks, one of life's borderline cases (the virus), and two of life's puzzles.

An Aristotelian account of minimal chemical life.

PubMed

Bedau, Mark A

2010-12-01

This paper addresses the open philosophical and scientific problem of explaining and defining life. This problem is controversial, and there is nothing approaching a consensus about what life is. This raises a philosophical meta-question: Why is life so controversial and so difficult to define? This paper proposes that we can attribute a significant part of the controversy over life to use of a Cartesian approach to explaining life, which seeks necessary and sufficient conditions for being an individual living organism, out of the context of other organisms and the abiotic environment. The Cartesian approach contrasts with an Aristotelian approach to explaining life, which considers life only in the whole context in which it actually exists, looks at the characteristic phenomena involving actual life, and seeks the deepest and most unified explanation for those phenomena. The phenomena of life might be difficult to delimit precisely, but it certainly includes life's characteristic hallmarks, borderline cases, and puzzles. The Program-Metabolism-Container (PMC) model construes minimal chemical life as a functionally integrated triad of chemical systems, which are identified as the Program, Metabolism, and Container. Rasmussen diagrams precisely depict the functional definition of minimal chemical life. The PMC model illustrates the Aristotelian approach to life, because it explains eight of life's hallmarks, one of life's borderline cases (the virus), and two of life's puzzles.

Accurate Characterization of Benign and Cancerous Breast Tissues: Aspecific Patient Studies using Piezoresistive Microcantilevers

PubMed Central

PANDYA, HARDIK J.; ROY, RAJARSHI; CHEN, WENJIN; CHEKMAREVA, MARINA A.; FORAN, DAVID J.; DESAI, JAYDEV P.

2014-01-01

Breast cancer is the largest detected cancer amongst women in the US. In this work, our team reports on the development of piezoresistive microcantilevers (PMCs) to investigate their potential use in the accurate detection and characterization of benign and diseased breast tissues by performing indentations on the micro-scale tissue specimens. The PMCs used in these experiments have been fabricated using laboratory-made silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate, which significantly reduces the fabrication costs. The PMCs are 260 μm long, 35 μm wide and 2 μm thick with resistivity of order 1.316 X 10−3 Ω-cm obtained by using boron diffusion technique. For indenting the tissue, we utilized 8 μm thick cylindrical SU-8 tip. The PMC was calibrated against a known AFM probe. Breast tissue cores from seven different specimens were indented using PMC to identify benign and cancerous tissue cores. Furthermore, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) of benign and cancerous specimens showed marked differences in the tissue morphology, which further validates our observed experimental data with the PMCs. While these patient aspecific feasibility studies clearly demonstrate the ability to discriminate between benign and cancerous breast tissues, further investigation is necessary to perform automated mechano-phenotyping (classification) of breast cancer: from onset to disease progression. PMID:25128621

First Study on the Occurrence Frequency of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles over West Africa Using an All-Sky Airglow Imager and GNSS Receivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okoh, Daniel; Rabiu, Babatunde; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Otsuka, Yuichi; Segun, Bolaji; Falayi, Elijah; Onwuneme, Sylvester; Kaka, Rafiat

2017-12-01

This is the first paper that reports the occurrence frequency of equatorial plasma bubbles and their dependences of local time, season, and geomagnetic activity based on airglow imaging observations at West Africa. The all-sky imager, situated in Abuja (Geographic: 8.99°N, 7.38°E; Geomagnetic: 1.60°S), has a 180° fisheye view covering almost the entire airspace of Nigeria. Plasma bubbles are observed for 70 nights of the 147 clear-sky nights from 9 June 2015 to 31 January 2017. Differences between nighttime and daytime ROTIs were also computed as a proxy of plasma bubbles using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) receivers within the coverage of the all-sky imager. Most plasma bubble occurrences are found during equinoxes and least occurrences during solstices. The occurrence rate of plasma bubbles was highest around local midnight and lower for hours farther away. Most of the postmidnight plasma bubbles were observed around the months of December to March, a period that coincides with the harmattan period in Nigeria. The on/off status of plasma bubble in airglow and GNSS observations were in agreement for 67.2% of the total 768 h, while we suggest several reasons responsible for the remaining 32.8% when the airglow and GNSS bubble status are inconsistent. A majority of the plasma bubbles were observed under relatively quiet geomagnetic conditions (Dst ≥ -40 and Kp ≤ 3), but there was no significant pattern observed in the occurrence rate of plasma bubbles as a function of geomagnetic activity. We suggest that geomagnetic activities could have either suppressed or promoted the occurrence of plasma bubbles.

An English-French-German-Spanish Word Frequency Dictionary: A Correlation of the First Six Thousand Words in Four Single-Language Frequency Lists.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eaton, Helen S., Comp.

This semantic frequency list for English, French, German, and Spanish correlates 6,474 concepts represented by individual words in an order of diminishing occurrence. Designed as a research tool, the work is segmented into seven comparative "Thousand Concepts" lists with 115 sectional subdivisions, each of which begins with the key English word…

Relationship between focal penicillin spikes and cortical spindles in the cerveau isolé cat.

PubMed

McLachlan, R S; Kaibara, M; Girvin, J P

1983-01-01

Using the unanesthetized, cerveau isolé preparation in the cat, the association between artificially induced penicillin (PCN) spikes and spontaneously occurring electrocorticographic (ECoG) spindles was investigated. Spikes were elicited by surface application of small pledgets of PCN. After the application of PCN, there was a decrease in spindle amplitude but no change in frequency, duration, or spindle wave frequency in the area of the focus. Examination of the times of occurrence of the spikes and spindles disclosed that in the majority of cases, within a few minutes of the initiation of the foci, there was very high simultaneity, usually 100% between the occurrences of these two events. Examination of the times of occurrence of the spikes within the ECoG spindles failed to disclose any compelling evidence which would favor either the hypothesis that spikes "trigger" spindles or the hypothesis that spindles predispose to focal spikes. Thus, whether spikes trigger spindles, or spikes simply occur in a nonspecific manner during the occurrence of the spindle, or whether it is a combination of both these explanations, must remain an open question on the basis of the data available.

Variability of tornado occurrence over the continental United States since 1950

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Li; Wang, Kaicun; Bluestein, Howard B.

2016-06-01

The United States experiences the most tornadoes of any country in the world. Given the catastrophic impact of tornadoes, concern has arisen regarding the variation in climatology of U.S. tornadoes under the changing climate. A recent study claimed that the temporal variability of tornado occurrence over the continental U.S. has increased since the 1970s. However, that study ignored the highly regionalized climatology of U.S. tornadoes. To address this issue, we examined the long-term trend of tornado temporal variability in each continental U.S. state. Based on the 64 year tornado records (1950-2013), we found that the trends in tornado temporal variability varied across the U.S., with only one third of the continental area or three out of 10 contiguous states (mostly from the Great Plains and Southeast, but where the frequency of occurrence of tornadoes is greater) displaying a significantly increasing trend. The other two-thirds area, where 60% of the U.S. tornadoes were reported (but the frequency of occurrence of tornadoes is less), however, showed a decreasing or a near-zero trend in tornado temporal variability. Furthermore, unlike the temporal variability alone, the combined spatial-temporal variability of U.S. tornado occurrence has remained nearly constant since 1950. Such detailed information on the climatological variability of U.S. tornadoes refines the claim of previous study and can be helpful for local mitigation efforts toward future tornado risks.

Natural Occurrence of Nivalenol, Deoxynivalenol, and Deoxynivalenol-3-Glucoside in Polish Winter Wheat

PubMed Central

Bryła, Marcin; Ksieniewicz-Woźniak, Edyta; Waśkiewicz, Agnieszka; Szymczyk, Krystyna; Jędrzejczak, Renata

2018-01-01

The presence of mycotoxins in cereal grain is a very important food safety factor. The occurrence of “masked” mycotoxins has been intensively investigated in recent years. In this study, the occurrence of nivalenol, deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside, and deoxynivalenol in 92 samples of winter wheat from Polish cultivars was determined. The frequency of the occurrence of deoxynivalenol and nivalenol in the samples was 83% and 70%, respectively. The average content of the analytes was: for deoxynivalenol 140.2 µg/kg (10.5–1265.4 µg/kg), for nivalenol 35.0 µg/kg (5.1–372.5 µg/kg). Deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside, the formation of which is connected with the biotransformation pathway in plants, was present in 27% of tested wheat samples; its average content was 41.9 µg/kg (15.8–137.5 µg/kg). The relative content of deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside (DON-3G) compared to deoxynivalenol (DON) in positive samples was 4–37%. Despite the high frequency of occurrence of these mycotoxins, the quality of wheat from the 2016 season was good. The maximum content of DON, as defined in EU regulations (1250 µg/kg), was exceeded in only one sample. Nevertheless, the presence of a glycosidic derivative of deoxynivalenol can increase the risk to food safety, as it can be hydrolyzed by intestinal microflora. PMID:29438296

Frequency and Intensity of Anxiety in University Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Janisse, Michel Pierre; Palys, T. S.

1976-01-01

One thousand and ninety-seven university students (455 males; 642 females) named, "...three situations that make you anxious..." and rated the intensity of the anxiety in each situation. Correlations between frequency of occurrence and rated intensity for situations named more than once were negligible for both sexes. The correlations…

A Theory of Term Importance in Automatic Text Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salton, G.; And Others

Most existing automatic content analysis and indexing techniques are based on work frequency characteristics applied largely in an ad hoc manner. Contradictory requirements arise in this connection, in that terms exhibiting high occurrence frequencies in individual documents are often useful for high recall performance (to retrieve many relevant…

Reproducibility and relative validity of a food frequency questionnaire to estimate intake of dietary phylloquinone and menaquinones

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Background: Several observational studies have investigated the relation of dietary phylloquinone and menaquinone intake with occurrence of chronic diseases. Most of these studies relied on food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) to estimate the intake of phylloquinone and menaquinones. However, none of...

Mesopause Horizontal wind estimates based on AIM CIPS polar mesospheric cloud pattern matching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rong, P.; Yue, J.; Russell, J. M.; Gong, J.; Wu, D. L.; Randall, C. E.

2013-12-01

A cloud pattern matching approach is used to estimate horizontal winds in the mesopause region using Polar Mesospheric Cloud (PMC) albedo data measured by the Cloud Imaging and Particle Size instrument on the AIM satellite. Measurements for all 15 orbits per day throughout July 2007 are used to achieve statistical significance. For each orbit, eighteen out of the twenty-seven scenes are used for the pattern matching operation. Some scenes at the lower latitudes are not included because there is barely any cloud coverage for these scenes. The frame-size chosen is about 12 degrees in longitude and 3 degrees in latitude. There is no strict criterion in choosing the frame size since PMCs are widespread in the polar region and most local patterns do not have a clearly defined boundary. The frame moves at a step of 1/6th of the frame size in both the longitudinal and latitudinal directions to achieve as many 'snap-shots' as possible. A 70% correlation is used as a criterion to define an acceptable match between two patterns at two time frames; in this case the time difference is about 3.6 minutes that spans every 5 'bowtie' scenes. A 70% criterion appears weak if the chosen pattern is expected to act like a tracer. It is known that PMC brightness varies rapidly with a changing temperature and water vapor environment or changing nucleation conditions, especially on smaller spatial scales; therefore PMC patterns are not ideal tracers. Nevertheless, within a short time span such as 3.6 minutes a 70% correlation is sufficient to identify two cloud patterns that come from the same source region, although the two patterns may exhibit a significant difference in the actual brightness. Analysis of a large number of matched cloud patterns indicates that over the 3.6-minute time span about 70% of the patterns remain in the same locations. Given the 25-km2 horizontal resolution of CIPS data, this suggests that the overall magnitude of horizontal wind at PMC altitudes (~80-87 km) in the polar summer cannot exceed 25 m/s. In other words, the wind detection resolution is no better than 25 m/s. There are about 10% of cases in which it appears that an easterly prevails, with a peak value at about 80-100m/s. In another 5% of cases a westerly appears to prevail. The remaining 15% cases are related to either invalid cloud features with poor background correction or the situation in which the matching occurs at the corners of the bowties. The AIM CIPS cloud pattern matching results overall suggest that higher wind speed (25-200 m/s) can be reached occasionally, while in a majority of cases the wind advection caused albedo change is much smaller than the in-situ albedo change. However, we must note that this analysis was a feasibility study and the short period analyzed may not be representative of the winds over a seasonal time scale or the multiple-year average.

New findings regarding the significance of pavement skid resistance for road safety on Swiss freeways.

PubMed

Lindenmann, H P

2006-01-01

The significance of the influence of poor pavement skid resistance values on accident frequency in wet pavement conditions has been the object of many studies over several years. The various investigations have produced very diverse findings. Only seldom, however, has detailed consideration been given to the central question of whether pavement skid resistance is a decisive parameter in the occurrence of local accident "black spots." Until now, the focus has been more on describing a relationship between pavement skid resistance and accident frequency. In the course of the network-wide survey of the states of pavements and of accident occurrence on Switzerland's freeways from 1999 to 2003, it emerged that a relationship with inadequate pavement skid resistance was provable for only a small proportion of accident black spots. These findings were used to frame a guideline for authorities and highway operators about how to treat skid resistance when assessing pavements and accident occurrence on freeways.

Risk analysis of analytical validations by probabilistic modification of FMEA.

PubMed

Barends, D M; Oldenhof, M T; Vredenbregt, M J; Nauta, M J

2012-05-01

Risk analysis is a valuable addition to validation of an analytical chemistry process, enabling not only detecting technical risks, but also risks related to human failures. Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) can be applied, using a categorical risk scoring of the occurrence, detection and severity of failure modes, and calculating the Risk Priority Number (RPN) to select failure modes for correction. We propose a probabilistic modification of FMEA, replacing the categorical scoring of occurrence and detection by their estimated relative frequency and maintaining the categorical scoring of severity. In an example, the results of traditional FMEA of a Near Infrared (NIR) analytical procedure used for the screening of suspected counterfeited tablets are re-interpretated by this probabilistic modification of FMEA. Using this probabilistic modification of FMEA, the frequency of occurrence of undetected failure mode(s) can be estimated quantitatively, for each individual failure mode, for a set of failure modes, and the full analytical procedure. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The influence of low frequency sound on the changes of EEG signal morphology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Damijan, Z.; Wiciak, J.

2006-11-01

The effects of low frequency sound on the changes of morphology of the spectral power density function of EEG signals were studied as a part of the research program f = 40 Hz, Lp = 110 dB HP. The research program involved 33 experiments. A quantitative analysis was conducted of the driving response effect for the fundamental frequency and its harmonics to find the frequency of the driving response effect occurrence depending on the sex of participants.

Spatial distribution and temporal variations of occurrence frequency of lightning whistlers observed by VLF/WBA onboard Akebono

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oike, Yuta; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Goto, Yoshitaka

2014-09-01

We statistically analyzed lightning whistlers detected from the analog waveform data below 15 kHz observed by the VLF instruments onboard Akebono. We examined the large amount of data obtained at Uchinoura Space Center in Japan for 22 years from 1989 to 2010. The lightning whistlers were mainly observed inside the L shell region below 2. Seasonal dependence of the occurrence frequency of lightning whistlers has two peaks around July to August and December to January. As lightning is most active in summer, in general, these two peaks correspond to summer in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, respectively. Diurnal variation of the occurrence frequency showed that lightning whistlers begin to increase in the early evening and remain at a high-occurrence level through the night with a peak around 21 in magnetic local time (MLT). This peak shifts toward nightside compared with lightning activity, which begins to rise around noon and peaks in the late afternoon. This trend is supposed to be caused by attenuation of VLF wave in the ionosphere in the daytime. Comparison study with the ground-based observation revealed consistent results, except that the peak of the ground-based observation appeared after midnight while our measurements obtained by Akebono was around 21 in MLT. This difference is explained qualitatively in terms that lightning whistlers measured at the ground station passed through the ionosphere twice above both source region and the ground station. These facts provide an important clue to evaluate quantitatively the absorption effect of lightning whistler in the ionosphere.

Primary Neoplasms of Bones in Mice: Retrospective Study and Review of Literature

PubMed Central

Kavirayani, A. M.; Sundberg, J. P.; Foreman, O.

2011-01-01

To compare and summarize the mechanisms, frequencies of occurrence, and classification schemes of spontaneous, experimental, and genetically engineered, mouse skeletal neoplasms, the literature was reviewed and archived case material at The Jackson Laboratory examined. The frequency of occurrence of spontaneous bone neoplasms was less than 1% for most strains, with the exceptions of osteomas in CF-1 (5.5% and 10% in two studies) and OF-1 outbred strains (35%), and osteosarcomas in NOD/ShiLtJ (11.5%) and NOD derived (7.1%) mice. The frequency was 100% for osteochondromas induced by conditional inactivation of exostoses (multiple) 1 (Ext1) in chondrocytes, osteosarcomas induced by tibial intramedullary inoculation of Moloney’s murine sarcoma virus, and osteosarcomas induced by conditional inactivation of Trp53-with or without inactivation of Rb1-in osteoblast precursors. Spontaneous osteogenic neoplasms were more frequent than spontaneous cartilaginous and vascular types. Malignant neoplasms were more frequent than benign ones. The age of occurrence for spontaneous neoplasms ranged from 37 to 720 (Mean 316.35) days for benign, and 35 to 990 (Mean 299.28) days for malignant neoplasms. In genetically engineered mice, the average age of occurrence ranged from 28 to 70 days for benign, and from 35 to 690 days for malignant neoplasms. Histologically, non-osteogenic neoplasms were similar across strains and mutant stocks; osteogenic neoplasms exhibited greater diversity. This comparison and summarization of mouse bone neoplasms provides valuable information for the selection of strains to create, compare, and validate models of bone neoplasms. PMID:21343597

Evaluation of Potential Climate Change Impacts on Particle Movement in Open Channel Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, E.; Tsai, C.

2014-12-01

It is important to develop a forecast model to predict the trajectory of sediment particles when extreme flow events occur. In extreme flow environments, the stochastic jump diffusion particle tracking model (SJD-PTM) can be used to model the movement of sediment particles in response to extreme events. This proposed SJD-PTM can be separated into three main parts — a drift motion, a turbulence term and a jump term due to random occurrences of extreme flow events. The study is intended to modify the jump term, which models the abrupt changes of particle position in the extreme flow environments. The frequency of extreme flow occurrences might change due to many uncertain factors such as climate change. The study attempts to use the concept of the logistic regression and the parameter of odds ratio, namely the trend magnitude to investigate the frequency change of extreme flow event occurrences and its impact on sediment particle movement. With the SJD-PTM, the ensemble mean and variance of particle trajectory can be quantified via simulations. The results show that by taking the effect of the trend magnitude into consideration, the particle position and its uncertainty may undergo a significant increase. Such findings will have many important implications to the environmental and hydraulic engineering design and planning. For instance, when the frequency of the occurrence of flow events with higher extremity increases, particles can travel further and faster downstream. It is observed that flow events with higher extremity can induce a higher degree of entrainment and particle resuspension, and consequently more significant bed and bank erosion.

Regional and Seasonal Diet of the Western Burrowing Owl in South-Central Nevada

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

Derek B. Hall, Paul D. Greger, Jeffrey R. Rosier

2009-04-01

We examined diets of Western Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) based on contents of pellets and large prey remains collected year-round at burrows in each of the 3 regions in south central Nevada (Mojave Desert, Great Basin Desert, and Transition region). The most common prey items, based on percent frequency of occurrence, were crickets and grasshoppers, beetles, rodents, sun spiders, and scorpions. The most common vertebrate prey was kangaroo rats (Dipodomys spp.). True bugs (Hemiptera), scorpions, and western harvest mice (Reithrodontomys megalotis) occurred most frequently in pellets from the Great Basin Desert region. Kangaroo rats (Dipodomys spp.) and pocket micemore » (Perognathinae) were the most important vertebrate prey items in the Transition and Mojave Desert regions, respectively. Frequency of occurrence of any invertebrate prey was high (>80%) in samples year-round but dropped in winter samples, with scorpions and sun spiders exhibiting the steepest declines. Frequency of occurrence of any vertebrate prey peaked in spring samples, was intermediate for winter and summer samples, and was lowest in fall samples. With the possible exception of selecting for western harvest mice in the Great Basin Desert region, Western Burrowing Owls in our study appeared to be opportunistic foragers with a generalist feeding strategy.« less

Seroprevalence occurrence of viral hepatitis and HIV among hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Kamal, Inass Mahmood Abid; Mahdi, Batool Mutar

2018-05-01

Patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) were on maintenance invasive hemodialysis (HD) procedure. This procedure by itself affects immunity of the patients and became more susceptible to viral infections. to investigate the occurrence of HBV, HCV and HIV infections in patients with hemodialysis. A retrospective study of 430 end-stage renal failure patients, referred to hemodialysis department at XXXX Teaching Hospital, Baghdad-Iraq from January-2015 to January-2017. Patients were investigated for HBs-Ag using enzyme-labeled antigen test (Foresight-EIA-USA), HCV- Abs (IgG) specific immunoglobulin using an HCV enzyme-labeled antigen test (Foresight-EIA-USA)and anti - HIV Abs (IgG) using enzyme-labeled antigen test (Foresight-EIA-USA). The frequency of HBV infection in the first year was not significant between males (1.11%) and females (0.00%) (P = 0.295). About HCV also there are no significant differences between males (12.63%) and females (9.31%) (P = 0.347). After one year of follow up the frequencies of HBV and HCV were not significant between two sexes. Additionally, no any one of the patients had HIV infection. This study brings a light on that HBV and HCV were having the same frequencies in both genders and lower occurrence with time. Furthermore, HIV was not detected in those patients.

Vocal Tract Discomfort and Voice-Related Quality of Life in Wind Instrumentalists.

PubMed

Cappellaro, Juliane; Beber, Bárbara Costa

2018-05-01

This study aimed to investigate vocal tract discomfort and quality of life in the voice of wind instrumentalists. It is a cross-sectional study. The sample was composed of 37 musicians of the orchestra of Caxias do Sul city, RS, Brazil. The participants answered a nonstandard questionnaire about demographic and professional information, the Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL), the Vocal Tract Discomfort (VTD) scale, and additional items about fatigue after playing the instrument and pain in the cervical muscles. Correlation analyses were performed using Spearman correlation test. The most frequent symptoms mentioned by musicians in the VTD, for both frequency and intensity of occurrence, were dryness, ache, irritability, and cervical muscle pain, in addition to the frequency of occurrence of fatigue after playing. The musicians showed high scores in the V-RQOL survey. Several symptoms evaluated by the VTD had a negative correlation with the musicians' years of orchestra membership and with V-RQOL scores. Symptoms of vocal tract discomfort are present in wind instrumentalists in low frequency and intensity of occurrence. However, these symptoms affect the musicians' voice-related quality of life, and they occur more in musicians with fewer years of orchestra membership. Copyright © 2018 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency in Sub-Saharan Africa: Identification of a Highly Frequent Missense Mutation (G829A;Glu277Lys) and Association with Malaria

PubMed Central

Machado, Patrícia; Manco, Licínio; Gomes, Cláudia; Mendes, Cristina; Fernandes, Natércia; Salomé, Graça; Sitoe, Luis; Chibute, Sérgio; Langa, José; Ribeiro, Letícia; Miranda, Juliana; Cano, Jorge; Pinto, João; Amorim, António; do Rosário, Virgílio E.; Arez, Ana Paula

2012-01-01

Background Pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency, causing hemolytic anemia, has been associated to malaria protection and its prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa is not known so far. This work shows the results of a study undertaken to determine PK deficiency occurrence in some sub-Saharan African countries, as well as finding a prevalent PK variant underlying this deficiency. Materials and Methods Blood samples of individuals from four malaria endemic countries (Mozambique, Angola, Equatorial Guinea and Sao Tome and Principe) were analyzed in order to determine PK deficiency occurrence and detect any possible high frequent PK variant mutation. The association between this mutation and malaria was ascertained through association studies involving sample groups from individuals showing different malaria infection and outcome status. Results The percentage of individuals showing a reduced PK activity in Maputo was 4.1% and the missense mutation G829A (Glu277Lys) in the PKLR gene (only identified in three individuals worldwide to date) was identified in a high frequency. Heterozygous carrier frequency was between 6.7% and 2.6%. A significant association was not detected between either PK reduced activity or allele 829A frequency and malaria infection and outcome, although the variant was more frequent among individuals with uncomplicated malaria. Conclusions This was the first study on the occurrence of PK deficiency in several areas of Africa. A common PKLR mutation G829A (Glu277Lys) was identified. A global geographical co-distribution between malaria and high frequency of PK deficiency seems to occur suggesting that malaria may be a selective force raising the frequency of this 277Lys variant. PMID:23082140

A discussion of the links between solar variability and high-storm-surge events in Venice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barriopedro, David; GarcíA-Herrera, Ricardo; Lionello, Piero; Pino, Cosimo

2010-07-01

This study explores the long-term frequency variability of high-surge events (HSEs) in the North Adriatic, the so-called acqua alta, which, particularly during autumn, cause flooding of the historical city center of Venice. The period 1948-2008, when hourly observations of sea level are available, is considered. The frequency of HSEs is correlated with the 11 year solar cycle, solar maxima being associated with a significant increase in the October-November-December HSE frequency. The seasonal geopotential height pattern at 1000 hPa (storm surge pattern; SSP) associated with the increased frequency of HSEs is identified for the whole time period and found to be similar to the positive phase of the main variability mode of the regional atmospheric circulation (empirical orthogonal function 1; EOF1). However, further analysis indicates that solar activity modulates the spatial patterns of the atmospheric circulation (EOF) and the favorable conditions for HSE occurrence (SSP). Under solar maxima, the occurrence of HSEs is enhanced by the main mode of regional atmospheric variability, namely, a large-scale wave train pattern that is symptomatic of storm track paths over northern Europe. Solar minima reveal a substantially different and less robust SSP, consisting of a meridionally oriented dipole with a preferred southward path of storm track activity, which is not associated with any dominant mode of atmospheric variability during low-solar periods. It is concluded that solar activity plays an indirect role in the frequency of HSEs by modulating the spatial patterns of the main modes of atmospheric regional variability, the favorable patterns for HSE occurrence, and their mutual relationships, so that constructive interaction between them is enhanced during solar maxima and inhibited in solar minima.

Spatial and temporal variability in fire occurrence within the Las Bayas Forestry Reserve, Durango, Mexico

Treesearch

S. A. Drury; T. T. Veblen

2008-01-01

Patterns of fire occurrence within the Las Bayas Forestry Reserve, Mexico are analyzed in relation to variability in climate, topography, and human land-use. Significantly more fires with shorter fire return intervals occurred from 1900 to 1950 than from 1950 to 2001. However, the frequency of widespread fire years (25% filter) was unchanged over time, as widespread...

Occurrence features of simultaneous H+- and He+-band EMIC emissions in the outer radiation belt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Song; He, Fengming; Gu, Xudong; Ni, Binbin; Xiang, Zheng; Liu, Jiang

2018-04-01

As an important loss mechanism of radiation belt electrons, electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves show up as three distinct frequency bands below the hydrogen (H+), helium (He+), and oxygen (O+) ion gyrofrequencies. Compared to O+-band EMIC waves, H+- and He+-band emissions generally occur more frequently and result in more efficient scattering removal of <∼5 MeV relativistic electrons. Therefore, knowledge about the occurrence of these two bands is important for understanding the evolution of the relativistic electron population. To evaluate the occurrence pattern and wave properties of H+- and He+-band EMIC waves when they occur concurrently, we investigate 64 events of multi-band EMIC emissions identified from high quality Van Allen Probes wave data. Our quantitative results demonstrate a strong occurrence dependence of the multi-band EMIC emissions on magnetic local time (MLT) and L-shell to mainly concentrate on the dayside region of L = ∼4-6. We also find that the average magnetic field amplitude of H+-band waves is larger than that of He+-band waves only when L < 4.5 and AE∗ < 300 nT, and He+-band emissions are more intense under all other conditions. In contrast to 5 events that have average H+-band amplitude over 2 nT, 19 events exhibit >2 nT He+-band amplitude, indicating that the He+-band waves can be more easily amplified than the H+-band waves under the same circumstances. For simultaneous occurrences of the two EMIC wave bands, their frequencies vary with L-shell and geomagnetic activity: the peak wave frequency of H+-band emissions varies between 0.25 and 0.8 fcp with the average between 0.25 and 0.6 fcp, while that of He+-band emissions varies between 0.03 and 0.23 fcp with the average between 0.05 and 0.15 fcp. These newly observed occurrence features of simultaneous H+- and He+-band EMIC emissions provide improved information to quantify the overall contribution of multi-band EMIC waves to the loss processes of radiation belt electrons.

Workflow and intervention times of MR-guided focused ultrasound - Predicting the impact of new techniques.

PubMed

Loeve, Arjo J; Al-Issawi, Jumana; Fernandez-Gutiérrez, Fabiola; Langø, Thomas; Strehlow, Jan; Haase, Sabrina; Matzko, Matthias; Napoli, Alessandro; Melzer, Andreas; Dankelman, Jenny

2016-04-01

Magnetic resonance guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) has become an attractive, non-invasive treatment for benign and malignant tumours, and offers specific benefits for poorly accessible locations in the liver. However, the presence of the ribcage and the occurrence of liver motion due to respiration limit the applicability MRgFUS. Several techniques are being developed to address these issues or to decrease treatment times in other ways. However, the potential benefit of such improvements has not been quantified. In this research, the detailed workflow of current MRgFUS procedures was determined qualitatively and quantitatively by using observation studies on uterine MRgFUS interventions, and the bottlenecks in MRgFUS were identified. A validated simulation model based on discrete events simulation was developed to quantitatively predict the effect of new technological developments on the intervention duration of MRgFUS on the liver. During the observation studies, the duration and occurrence frequencies of all actions and decisions in the MRgFUS workflow were registered, as were the occurrence frequencies of motion detections and intervention halts. The observation results show that current MRgFUS uterine interventions take on average 213min. Organ motion was detected on average 2.9 times per intervention, of which on average 1.0 actually caused a need for rework. Nevertheless, these motion occurrences and the actions required to continue after their detection consumed on average 11% and up to 29% of the total intervention duration. The simulation results suggest that, depending on the motion occurrence frequency, the addition of new technology to automate currently manual MRgFUS tasks and motion compensation could potentially reduce the intervention durations by 98.4% (from 256h 5min to 4h 4min) in the case of 90% motion occurrence, and with 24% (from 5h 19min to 4h 2min) in the case of no motion. In conclusion, new tools were developed to predict how intervention durations will be affected by future workflow changes and by the introduction of new technology. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Removal of Microbial Contaminants in Drinking Water: Koch Membrane Systems, Inc. Targa® 10-48-35-PMC™ Ultrafiltration Membrane, as Used in the Village Marine Tec. Expeditionary Unit Water Purifier

EPA Science Inventory

The Koch Membrane Systems Targa 10-48-35-PMC UF membrane module is used for the first treatment step in the US Navy Office of Naval Research’s Expeditionary Unit Water Purifier (EUWP). Two used UF cartridges from the EUWP were tested for removal of endospores of the bacteria Bac...

Interrogating Spatio-Mechanical EphA2 Signaling in Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

and membrane phase structure modulation by protein binding”, Martin B. Forstner, Chanel K. Lee, Atul N. Parikh, and Jay T. Groves. PMID: 17117874 55...Continuation Format Page anchored proteins and their behavior in supported lipid bilayers", Margot G. Paulick, Amber R. Wise, Martin B. Forstner, Jay T... Martin B. Forstner, Jay T. Groves and Carolyn R. Bertozzi. PMC: 2154431 67. Current Opinion in Immunology, 2007, 19, 6, 722 - 727: "Interrogating

Phospholipids as Biomarkers for Excessive Alcohol Use

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

Epub 2015 Apr 23. PubMed PMID: 25960184; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC4495663. 6. Liangpunsakul S. ChREBP, SIRT1 and ethanol metabolism - a complicated...AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-12-1-0497 TITLE: Phospholipids as Biomarkers for Excessive Alcohol Use PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Suthat Liangpunsakul...2015 2. REPORT TYPE Annual 3. DATES COVERED 15Sept2014 - 14Sep2015 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Phospholipids as Biomarkers for Excessive Alcohol Use 5a

High Band Technology Program (HiTeP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

clock distribution circuit. One Receiver Memory module receives 60MHz reference sine wave and distributes 60MHz clock signals to all Receiver Memory...Diagram UNCLASSIFIED 23 in N00014-99-C-0314 Integrated Defense Systems Final Report 1 March 2005 .. 4.ran FibreXpress Fibre-Channel PMC "Motrl Medea FCR...the Electrically Short Crossed-Notch (ESCN). It is shorter than traditional traveling wave notch antennas. The 2X ECSN fin length is approximately 1.2

Desynapsis and spontaneous trisomy in jute (Corchorus olitorius L.).

PubMed

Basak, S L; Paria, P

1980-11-01

Cytological studies in desynaptic plants, isolated at the F6 generation of an intervarietal cross of Corchorus olitorius L., have shown variable numbers of bivalents and univalents in the PMC's at metaphase I, resulting in irregular distribution of chromosomes at anaphase I. The progenies of the desynaptic plants consisted of 9.24 percent of all possible primary trisomies except trisomie 6. The desynaptic condition is controlled by a pair of simple recessive genes.

Observational evidence on the effects of mega-fires on the frequency of hydrogeomorphic hazards. The case of the Peloponnese fires of 2007 in Greece.

PubMed

Diakakis, M; Nikolopoulos, E I; Mavroulis, S; Vassilakis, E; Korakaki, E

2017-08-15

Even though rare, mega-fires raging during very dry and windy conditions, record catastrophic impacts on infrastructure, the environment and human life, as well as extremely high suppression and rehabilitation costs. Apart from the direct consequences, mega-fires induce long-term effects in the geomorphological and hydrological processes, influencing environmental factors that in turn can affect the occurrence of other natural hazards, such as floods and mass movement phenomena. This work focuses on the forest fire of 2007 in Peloponnese, Greece that to date corresponds to the largest fire in the country's record that burnt 1773km 2 , causing 78 fatalities and very significant damages in property and infrastructure. Specifically, this work examines the occurrence of flood and mass movement phenomena, before and after this mega-fire and analyses different influencing factors to investigate the degree to which the 2007 fire and/or other parameters have affected their frequency. Observational evidence based on several data sources collected during the period 1989-2016 show that the 2007 fire has contributed to an increase of average flood and mass movement events frequency by approximately 3.3 and 5.6 times respectively. Fire affected areas record a substantial increase in the occurrence of both phenomena, presenting a noticeably stronger increase compared to neighbouring areas that have not been affected. Examination of the monthly occurrence of events showed an increase even in months of the year were rainfall intensity presented decreasing trends. Although no major land use changes has been identified and chlorophyll is shown to recover 2years after the fire incident, differences on the type of vegetation as tall forest has been substituted with lower vegetation are considered significant drivers for the observed increase in flood and mass movement frequency in the fire affected areas. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Experimental vaginal dysbiosis on the model of white laboratory mice].

PubMed

Voronkova, O S; Sirokvasha, E A; Vinnikov, A I

2008-01-01

Qualitative and quantitative composition of microbiocenosis of urogenital tract (UGT) of mice has been studied. When investigating UGT of mice in norm (n = 8), microorganisms of several genera with following occurrence frequency were detected: Lactobacillus (100%), Streptococcus (100%), Staphylococcus (87.5%), Micrococcus (12.5%), Bacillus (12.5%), Fusobacterium (87.5%), Peptococcus (62.5%), Peptostreptococcus (50%), Bacteroides (100%) and representatives of Enterobacteriaceae f (12.5%) family. A comparative analysis of UGT microflora in norm and under physiologically proceeding pregnancy helped to detect in the group of pregnant animals the increase of occurrence frequency of such conventionally-pathogenous organisms as representatives of Enterobacteriaceae family (6.86) and Peptococcus genus (1.37 times), representatives of Lactobacillus genus were found in 100% of animals. A possibility of UGT dysbiosis under microbialload made by the method of intravaginal introduction of 50 mkl of Staphilococcus aureus culture suspension which contains 1 x 109 cells/ml has been established. It was shown that clinical symptoms of dysbiosis (increase of pH, excretions at UGT outlet) correlate with disturbances in microbiocenosis of mice UGT which are characterized by a decrease of occurrence frequency and titer of saprophyte microorganisms, first of all, Lactobacillus (occurrence frequency decreased 15 times for anaerobic and 1.33 times for microaerophylic, and titers 1.32 times and 2.34 times, respectively), and by an increase of the titer of conventionally pathogenic bacteria, such as representatives of Enterobacteriaceae family (14.5 times) and Staphylococcus (6.17 times). Investigation of the effect of exogenic staphylococcal load on pregnancy has shown that the development of UGT dysbiosis affects the pregnancy result. Thus, it was established that there were three cases of abortion and two cases of natimortality which were registered in the group of female mice (n = 5) which were administered Staphylococcus after they became pregnant. The paper is presented in Russian.

Preliminary Metallogenic Map of North America; a listing of deposits by commodity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lee, Michael P.; Guild, Philip White; Schruben, Paul G.

1987-01-01

The 4,215 ore deposits shown on the Preliminary Metallogenic Map of North America and contained in the Metallogenic Map file have been sorted by their principal (first-listed) commodities and grouped into metallic and nonmetallic categories. Deposit listings for 56 individual metals and minerals have been assembled using the data base and are arranged alphabetically by country, political subdivision (for the larger countries), and deposit name. Map numbers, major and minor constituents, geographic coordinates, and a geologic code are given for each deposit; additionally, the relative size and deposit class have been derived from the code and are listed separately. The frequencies of individual commodities and commodity groups by type, geographic distribution, and geologic occurrence are summarized in tables, and the relationships of associated commodities to principal commodities in the data base are emphasized in both tables and brief texts. In all, 49 metals and minerals are listed as principal (first or only) commodities and 7 more are shown as 'major' but not principal commodities. (Commodities listed as 'minor' in the data base were not sorted or tabulated separately.) Metals, divided into six subgroups, predominate over nonmetallic minerals by a ratio of about 7 to 1, although in terms of quantities and value the disparity is not so great. Within the metals group, the ranking according to frequency is as follows: base, precious, iron and alloying, other (antimony, beryllium, and others), nuclear-fuel, and light metals. The most frequently occurring commodity in the Metallogenic Map file is gold. Copper is ranked second, both in number of occurrences and as the principal commodity in deposits. Silver is ranked third in frequency of occurrence; lead and zinc are ranked fourth and fifth, respectively. Iron, ranked sixth in frequency of occurrence as a major commodity, is the third most reported principal commodity in the data base, ahead of silver (ranked fourth), lead (ranked fifth), and zinc (ranked sixth).

Occurrence of tetracycline resistance genes in aquaculture facilities with varying use of oxytetracycline

PubMed Central

Seyfried, Erin E.; Newton, Ryan J.; Rubert, Kennedy F.; Pedersen, Joel A.; McMahon, Katherine D.

2014-01-01

The contribution of human activities to environmental reservoirs of antibiotic resistance is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine if oxytetracycline (OTC) use in aquaculture facilities increased the detection frequency (i.e. prevalence) of tetracycline resistance genes relative to facilities with no recent OTC treatment. We used PCR to screen water and sediment from four non-commercial fish farms in northwestern Wisconsin for the presence of ten tetracycline resistance determinants (tetR): tet(A), tet(B), tet(D), tet(E), tet(G), tet(M), tet(O), tet(Q), tet(S) and tet(W). Water from farms with recent OTC use had significantly higher tetR detection frequencies than did water from farms without recent OTC use, with prevalence in raceways and rearing ponds of farms with recent OTC use exceeded by more than two-fold that of farms not using OTC. Effluent from all farms, regardless of treatment regime, had higher tetR detection frequencies than their corresponding influent for all genes, but the specific combinations of tetR genes detected in a sample were not different from their corresponding influent. Although OTC use was associated with the increased occurrence and diversity of tetR genes in water samples, it was not found to relate to tetR gene occurrence in sediment samples. Sediment samples from facilities with no recent OTC use had significantly higher frequencies of tetR gene detection than did samples from facilities with recent OTC use. All of the tetR genes were detected in both the medicated and non-medicated feed samples analyzed in this study. These findings suggest that both OTC treatment in aquaculture facilities, and the farms themselves, may be sources of tetR gene introduction to the environment. To our knowledge, this is the first study to use genotypic and cultivation-independent methods to examine tetR gene occurrence associated with OTC use in aquaculture. PMID:20217406

Seismic Risk Studies in the United States.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Algermissen, S.T.

A new seismic risk map of the United States is presented, along with strain release and maximum Modified Mercalli intesity maps of the country. Frequency of occurrence of damaging earthquakes was not considered in zone ratings, but included frequency studies may aid interpretation. Discussion of methods is included with review of calculations. (MH)

Bivariate frequency analysis of rainfall intensity and duration for urban stormwater infrastructure design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jun, Changhyun; Qin, Xiaosheng; Gan, Thian Yew; Tung, Yeou-Koung; De Michele, Carlo

2017-10-01

This study presents a storm-event based bivariate frequency analysis approach to determine design rainfalls in which, the number, intensity and duration of actual rainstorm events were considered. To derive more realistic design storms, the occurrence probability of an individual rainstorm event was determined from the joint distribution of storm intensity and duration through a copula model. Hourly rainfall data were used at three climate stations respectively located in Singapore, South Korea and Canada. It was found that the proposed approach could give a more realistic description of rainfall characteristics of rainstorm events and design rainfalls. As results, the design rainfall quantities from actual rainstorm events at the three studied sites are consistently lower than those obtained from the conventional rainfall depth-duration-frequency (DDF) method, especially for short-duration storms (such as 1-h). It results from occurrence probabilities of each rainstorm event and a different angle for rainfall frequency analysis, and could offer an alternative way of describing extreme rainfall properties and potentially help improve the hydrologic design of stormwater management facilities in urban areas.

Relative frequencies of seismic main shocks after strong shocks in Italy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gasperini, Paolo; Lolli, Barbara; Vannucci, Gianfranco

2016-10-01

We analysed a catalogue of Italian earthquakes, covering 55 yr of data from 1960 to 2014 with magnitudes homogeneously converted to Mw, to compute the time-dependent relative frequencies with which strong seismic shocks (4.0 ≤ Mw < 5.0), widely felt by the population, have been followed by main shocks (Mw ≥ 5.0) that threatened the health and the properties of the persons living in the epicentral area. Assuming the stationarity of the seismic release properties, such frequencies are estimates of the probabilities of potentially destructive shocks after the occurrence of future strong shocks. We compared them with the time-independent relative frequencies of random occurrence in terms of the frequency gain that is the ratio between the time-dependent and time-independent relative frequencies. The time-dependent relative frequencies vary from less than 1 per cent to about 20 per cent, depending on the magnitudes of the shocks and the time windows considered (ranging from minutes to years). They remain almost constant for a few hours after the strong shock and then decrease with time logarithmically. Strong earthquakes (with Mw ≥ 6.0) mainly occurred within two or three months of the strong shock. The frequency gains vary from about 10 000 for very short time intervals to less than 10 for a time interval of 2 yr. Only about 1/3 of main shocks were preceded by at least a strong shock in the previous day and about 1/2 in the previous month.

North Pacific Tropical Cyclones and Teleconnections

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

variance may be significantly explained by the stratospheric Quasi-biennial Oscillation ( QBO ). 3 Investigators of Atlantic basin TC frequency know that Gray...1984) has linked TC frequency in this region to the QBO . Gray et al. (1992) found that intense hurricane occurrence was almost three times more...likely during the westerly phase of the QBO as that of the easterly phase (Chan 2004). Zhang et al. (1994) examined TC frequency in the WNP from 1884-1988

Statistical study of ULF wave occurrence in the dayside magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cao, M.; Mcpherron, R. L.; Russell, C. T.

1994-01-01

Ultralow-frequency (ULF) waves are observed almost everywhere in the dayside magnetosphere. The mechanism by which these waves are generated and transformed in the dayside magnetosphere is still not understood. Here we report a statistical study of these waves based on magnetic field data from the International Sun-Earth Explorer 1 (ISEE 1) spacecraft. Data from the first traversal of the spacecraft through the entire dayside magnetosphere have been examined to determine the spatial distribution of wave occurrence. Successive 20-min segments of data were transformed to a field-aligned coordinate system. The parallel component was detrended and all three components of the field spectrally analyzed. Wave occurrence was defined by the presence of significant peaks in the power spectra. Wave events were categorized by three wave frequency bands: Pc 3 with T approximately 10-45 s; Pc 4 with T approximately 45-150 s; the short-period part of the Pc 5 wave band with T approximately 150-324 s. Properties of the spectral peaks were then entered into a data base. The data base was next sorted to determine the spatial occurrence pattern for the waves. Our results show that Pc 3 waves most frequently occur just outside synchronous orbit and are approximately centered on local noon. Pc 4 waves have a similar distribution with its peak further out. Pc 5 waves have high occurrence rate at the two flanks of the magnetosphere. Peaks in spectra obtained near the magnetopause are less clearly defined than those deeper in the magnetosphere.

Physiological Aging Influence on Brain Hemodynamic Activity during Task-Switching: A fNIRS Study.

PubMed

Vasta, Roberta; Cutini, Simone; Cerasa, Antonio; Gramigna, Vera; Olivadese, Giuseppe; Arabia, Gennarina; Quattrone, Aldo

2017-01-01

Task-switching (TS) paradigm is a well-known validated tool useful for exploring the neural substrates of cognitive control, in particular the activity of the lateral and medial prefrontal cortex. This work is aimed at investigating how physiological aging influences hemodynamic response during the execution of a color-shape TS paradigm. A multi-channel near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to measure hemodynamic activity in 27 young (30.00 ± 7.90 years) and 11 elderly participants (57.18 ± 9.29 years) healthy volunteers (55% male, age range: (19-69) years) during the execution of a TS paradigm. Two holders were placed symmetrically over the left/right hemispheres to record cortical activity [oxy-(HbO) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR) concentration] of the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), the dorsal premotor cortex (PMC), and the dorso-medial part of the superior frontal gyrus (sFG). TS paradigm requires participants to repeat the same task over a variable number of trials, and then to switch to a different task during the trial sequence. A two-sample t -test was carried out to detect differences in cortical responses between groups. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the impact of age on the prefrontal neural activity. Elderly participants were significantly slower than young participants in both color- ( p < 0.01, t = -3.67) and shape-single tasks ( p = 0.026, t = -2.54) as well as switching ( p = 0.026, t = -2.41) and repetition trials ( p = 0.012, t = -2.80). Differences in cortical activation between groups were revealed for HbO mean concentration of switching task in the PMC ( p = 0.048, t = 2.94). In the whole group, significant increases of behavioral performance were detected in switching trials, which positively correlated with aging. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the HbO mean concentration of switching task in the PMC ( p = 0.01, β = -0.321) and of shape single-task in the sFG ( p = 0.003, β = 0.342) were the best predictors of age effects. Our findings demonstrated that TS might be a reliable instrument to gather a measure of cognitive resources in older people. Moreover, the fNIRS-related brain activity extracted from frontoparietal cortex might become a useful indicator of aging effects.

The Genetic Basis of Phenotypic Adaptation II: The Distribution of Adaptive Substitutions in the Moving Optimum Model

PubMed Central

Kopp, Michael; Hermisson, Joachim

2009-01-01

We consider a population that adapts to a gradually changing environment. Our aim is to describe how ecological and genetic factors combine to determine the genetic basis of adaptation. Specifically, we consider the evolution of a polygenic trait that is under stabilizing selection with a moving optimum. The ecological dynamics are defined by the strength of selection, \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{\\tilde {{\\sigma}}}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}, and the speed of the optimum, \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}\\tilde {{\\upsilon}}\\end{equation*}\\end{document}; the key genetic parameters are the mutation rate Θ and the variance of the effects of new mutations, ω. We develop analytical approximations within an “adaptive-walk” framework and describe how selection acts as a sieve that transforms a given distribution of new mutations into the distribution of adaptive substitutions. Our analytical results are complemented by individual-based simulations. We find that (i) the ecological dynamics have a strong effect on the distribution of adaptive substitutions and their impact depends largely on a single composite measure \\documentclass[10pt]{article} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{pmc} \\usepackage[Euler]{upgreek} \\pagestyle{empty} \\oddsidemargin -1.0in \\begin{document} \\begin{equation*}{\\mathrm{{\\gamma}}}=\\tilde {{\\upsilon}}/({\\mathrm{\\tilde {{\\sigma}}}}{\\Theta}{\\mathrm{{\\omega}}}^{3})\\end{equation*}\\end{document}, which combines the ecological and genetic parameters; (ii) depending on γ, we can distinguish two distinct adaptive regimes: for large γ the adaptive process is mutation limited and dominated by genetic constraints, whereas for small γ it is environmentally limited and dominated by the external ecological dynamics; (iii) deviations from the adaptive-walk approximation occur for large mutation rates, when different mutant alleles interact via linkage or epistasis; and (iv) in contrast to predictions from previous models assuming constant selection, the distribution of adaptive substitutions is generally not exponential. PMID:19805820

Effect of ecological restoration programs on dust concentrations in the North China Plain: a case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Xin; Tie, Xuexi; Li, Guohui; Cao, Junji; Feng, Tian; Zhao, Shuyu; Xing, Li; An, Zhisheng

2018-05-01

In recent decades, the Chinese government has made a great effort in initiating large-scale ecological restoration programs (ERPs) to reduce the dust concentrations in China, especially for dust storm episodes. Using the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land cover product, the ERP-induced land cover changes are quantitatively evaluated in this study. Two obvious vegetation protective barriers arise throughout China from the southwest to the northeast, which are well known as the Green Great Wall (GGW). Both the grass GGW and forest GGW are located between the dust source region (DSR) and the densely populated North China Plain (NCP). To assess the effect of ERPs on dust concentrations, a regional transport/dust model (WRF-DUST, Weather Research and Forecast model with dust) is applied to investigate the evolution of dust plumes during a strong dust storm episode from 2 to 8 March 2016. The WRF-DUST model generally performs reasonably well in reproducing the temporal variations and spatial distributions of near-surface [PMC] (mass concentration of particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 and 10 µm) during the dust storm event. Sensitivity experiments have indicated that the ERP-induced GGWs help to reduce the dust concentration in the NCP, especially in BTH (Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei). When the dust storm is transported from the upwind DSR to the downwind NCP, the [PMC] reduction ranges from -5 to -15 % in the NCP, with a maximum reduction of -12.4 % (-19.2 µg m-3) in BTH and -7.6 % (-10.1 µg m-3) in the NCP. We find the dust plumes move up to the upper atmosphere and are transported from the upwind DSR to the downwind NCP, accompanied by dust decrease. During the episode, the forest GGW is nonsignificant in dust concentration control because it is of benefit for dry deposition and not for emission. Conversely, the grass GGW is beneficial in controlling dust erosion and is the dominant reason for [PMC] decrease in the NCP. Because the air pollution is severe in eastern China, especially in the NCP, and the contribution of dust episodes is significant, the reduction of dust concentrations will have important effects on severe air pollution. This study illustrates the considerable contribution of ERPs to the control of air pollution in China, especially in springtime.

Dosage and cycle effects of dacarbazine (DTIC) and fotemustine on O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

PubMed Central

Lee, S. M.; Thatcher, N.; Dougal, M.; Margison, G. P.

1993-01-01

There is increasing experimental evidence to suggest that endogenous expression of O6-alkylguanine-DNA-alkyltransferase (ATase) is a major factor in cellular resistance to certain chemotherapeutic agents including dacarbazine (DTIC). We have recently shown wide interindividual variation in the depletion and subsequent regeneration of ATase in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMCs) following DTIC and this has now been extended to ascertain whether or not depletion is related to dosage of DTIC used and repeated treatment cycles of chemotherapy. ATase levels were measured in three groups of 25 patients (pts) up to 24 h after receiving DTIC at 400 mg m-2, 500 mg m-2 or 800 mg m-2. Each group also received fotemustine (100 mg m-2), 4 h after DTIC. The lowest extent of ATase depletion (highest nadir ATase) was seen in patients receiving 400 mg m-2. The mean nadir ATase, expressed as a percentage of pre-treatment ATase, was respectively 56.3%, 26.4% and 23.9% for 400 mg m-2, 500 mg m-2 and 800 mg m-2. The median nadir of ATase activity for pts receiving 800 mg m-2 pts was at 4-6 h and for pts given lower doses it was at 2-3 h. In addition, repeated measures analysis of variance of observations before chemotherapy, then at 2, 3, 4, 6 and 18 h after chemotherapy provides some evidence that ATase was depleted to a lesser extent after cycle 1 than after subsequent cycles (P = 0.025). It also provides evidence that the change in ATase activity over time varied with dose and cycle. The findings can be interpreted on the basis of a dosage-dependent metabolism of DTIC to an agent capable of methylation of DNA and subsequent depletion of PMC ATase: with higher DTIC doses, the extent of ATase depletion may be limited by the pharmacokinetics of DTIC metabolism. PMC ATase was measured in another group of 8 pts at various times after receiving only fotemustine (100 mg m-2) and in contrast to DTIC, no ATase depletion was seen suggesting that insufficient concentrations of fotemustine and/or its metabolites were available to react with DNA to produce a depletion of PMC ATase activity. PMID:8431354

Universal Power Law of the Gravity Wave Manifestation in the AIM CIPS Polar Mesospheric Cloud Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rong, P. P.; Yue, J.; Russell, J. M., III; Siskind, D. E.; Randall, C. E.

2017-12-01

A large ensemble of gravity waves (GWs) resides in the PMCs and we aim to extract the universal law that governs the wave display throughout the GW population. More specifically, we examined how wave display morphology and clarity level varies throughout the wave population manifested through the PMC albedo data. Higher clarity refers to more distinct exhibition of the features which often correspond to larger variances and better organized nature. A gravity wave tracking algorithm is designed and applied to the PMC albedo data taken by the AIM Cloud Imaging and Particle Size (CIPS) instrument to obtain the gravity wave detections throughout the two northern summers in 2007 and 2010. The horizontal wavelengths in the range of 20-60km are the focus of the study because they are the most commonly observed and readily captured in the CIPS orbital strips. A 1-dimensional continuous wavelet transform (CWT) is applied to PMC albedo along all radial directions within an elliptical region that has a radius of 400 km and an axial ratio of 0.65. The center of the elliptical region moves around the CIPS orbital strips so that waves at different locations and orientations can be captured. It shows that the CWT albedo power statistically increases as the background gets brighter. We resample the wave detections to conform to a normal distribution via removing the dependence of the albedo power on the background cloud brightness because we tend to examine the wave morphology beyond the cloud brightness impact. Sample cases are selected at the two tails and the peak of the normal distribution, and at three brightness levels, to represent the high, medium, and low albedo power categories. For these cases the albedo CWT power spectra follow exponential decay toward smaller scales. The high albedo power has the most rapid decay (i.e., exponent=-3.2) and corresponds to the most distinct wave display. Overall higher albedo power and more rapid decay both contributed to the more distinct display. The wave display becomes increasingly more blurry for the medium and low power categories that hold the exponents of -2.9 and -2.5, respectively. The majority of waves are straight waves whose clarity levels can be collapsed irrespective of the brightness levels but in the brighter background the wave signatures seem to exhibit mildly turbulent-like behavior.

Killer whale (Orcinus orca) whistles from the western South Atlantic Ocean include high frequency signals.

PubMed

Andriolo, Artur; Reis, Sarah S; Amorim, Thiago O S; Sucunza, Federico; de Castro, Franciele R; Maia, Ygor Geyer; Zerbini, Alexandre N; Bortolotto, Guilherme A; Dalla Rosa, Luciano

2015-09-01

Acoustic parameters of killer whale (Orcinus orca) whistles were described for the western South Atlantic Ocean and highlight the occurrence of high frequency whistles. Killer whale signals were recorded on December of 2012, when a pod of four individuals was observed harassing a group of sperm whales. The high frequency whistles were highly stereotyped and were modulated mostly at ultrasonic frequencies. Compared to other contour types, the high frequency whistles are characterized by higher bandwidths, shorter durations, fewer harmonics, and higher sweep rates. The results add to the knowledge of vocal behavior of this species.

Abundance and Production of Berry-producing Plants on the MOFEP Study Sites: The Soft Mast Study Pre-harvest Conditions (1994-1995)

Treesearch

Debby K. Fantz; David A. Hamilton

1997-01-01

We surveyed the permanent Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) forest vegetation cluster plots in 1994 and 1995 to determine pre-treatment frequency of occurrence, amount of vegetative cover, and number of berries for plants that produce soft mast. Mean percentage occurrence of selected plants for each site ranged from 0.1 to 33.0 for Vaccinium...

Performance impact of stop lists and morphological decomposition on word-word corpus-based semantic space models.

PubMed

Keith, Jeff; Westbury, Chris; Goldman, James

2015-09-01

Corpus-based semantic space models, which primarily rely on lexical co-occurrence statistics, have proven effective in modeling and predicting human behavior in a number of experimental paradigms that explore semantic memory representation. The most widely studied extant models, however, are strongly influenced by orthographic word frequency (e.g., Shaoul & Westbury, Behavior Research Methods, 38, 190-195, 2006). This has the implication that high-frequency closed-class words can potentially bias co-occurrence statistics. Because these closed-class words are purported to carry primarily syntactic, rather than semantic, information, the performance of corpus-based semantic space models may be improved by excluding closed-class words (using stop lists) from co-occurrence statistics, while retaining their syntactic information through other means (e.g., part-of-speech tagging and/or affixes from inflected word forms). Additionally, very little work has been done to explore the effect of employing morphological decomposition on the inflected forms of words in corpora prior to compiling co-occurrence statistics, despite (controversial) evidence that humans perform early morphological decomposition in semantic processing. In this study, we explored the impact of these factors on corpus-based semantic space models. From this study, morphological decomposition appears to significantly improve performance in word-word co-occurrence semantic space models, providing some support for the claim that sublexical information-specifically, word morphology-plays a role in lexical semantic processing. An overall decrease in performance was observed in models employing stop lists (e.g., excluding closed-class words). Furthermore, we found some evidence that weakens the claim that closed-class words supply primarily syntactic information in word-word co-occurrence semantic space models.

Expanding the Territory of Historical Reconstruction: The Study of Frequency and Severity of Hail Storms, Based on 19th and 20th-Century Records from Swiss Insurance Archives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mauelshagen, F.

2009-09-01

Switzerland lies almost in the centre of a zone of high frequency of hail storm occurrence, often causing costly damage to agriculture, motor vehicles, the built environment and - consequentially - to insurance companies. Over the last ten years hailstorms and the resulting damage have been discussed, with some noticeable frequency, in the context of recent climate change. The final report of the Swiss National Research Programme No. 31: "Climate Change and Natural Disasters” (NFP 31: Klimaänderung und Naturkatastrophen) concludes that "the number of days with agricultural hail damage has increased”. This can be demonstrated from time series of days with severe hail occurrence in Switzerland between 1920 and 2005. Radar observations provide evidence for a doubling of severe hailstorms (on a scale >100 km) within the twenty-year period 1983 to 2003. More recent large-scale damage resulted from hailstorms on 24 June 2002 (causing damage of approx. 250 million CHF on insured risks) and 8 July 2004 (causing loss of 100 mill. on car insurance alone). 2007 was particularly disastrous for crop insurance. The latest OcCC-report on Klimaänderung und die Schweiz 2050 ("Climate Change and Switzerland, 2050”) concludes that peasants, house owners, and insurers should prepare for more extreme hailstorms to come if the frequency of synoptic weather situations favouring hailstorms develops along the trend of the last two decades. However, the same report argues that hailstorms can hardly be simulated by existing climate models, because hail occurrence is a local phenomenon. In other words, existing models of global warming cannot predict the effect global change is likely to have on hailstorm patterns (frequency, severity etc.), which is partly due to the limits of existing time series on hailstorm occurrence. For hail, the instrumental period doesn't begin before the 1950s. As early as 1954, Meteo-Swiss meteorologist M. Bider stated that insurance data were more reliable than observations from the existing network of meteorological offices. Some researchers have even suggested that the entire period before radar observation, beginning in the 1980s, should be classified as pre-instrumental. However, it is undoubted that documents kept in the archives of insurance companies provide valuable proxy information on hail storm occurrence for, at least, the pre-1950-period (well back into the 19th century). This paper discusses key problems in dealing with these proxy data (reliability, interpretation and density of records), as well as methodologies that may lead to extend existing time series on hail storm occurrence in Switzerland. As a consequence, this paper suggests that, for some meteorological phenomena, the field of reconstruction from documentary archival sources must be extended well up into the 20th century, which cannot simply and statically be categorized as "instrumental period”.

AF-TRUST, Air Force Team for Research in Ubiquitous Secure Technology

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-26

Charles Sutton, J. D. Tygar, and Kai Xia. Book chapter in Jeffrey J. P. Tsai and Philip S. Yu (eds.) Machine Learning in Cyber Trust: Security, Privacy...enterprise, tactical, embedded systems and command and control levels. From these studies, commissioned by Dr . Sekar Chandersekaran of the Secretary of the...Data centers avoid IP Multicast because of a series of problems with the technology. • Dr . Multicast (the MCMD), a system that maps traditional I PMC

Initial Identification and Characterization of an Emerging Zoonotic Influenza Prior to Pandemic Spread

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-01

equally closely strains of both H1N2 influenza A virus of swine origin and H3N2 influenza A virus of avian origin. The expected matches for each of...Naval Health Research Center Initial Identification and Characterization of an Emerging Zoonotic Influenza Virus Prior to Pandemic Spread...10.1128/JCM.01336-10 PMCID: PMC3020883 Initial Identification and Characterization of an Emerging Zoonotic Influenza Virus Prior to Pandemic

Seasonal changes of the pelagic fish assemblage in a temperate estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagan, S. M.; Able, K. W.

2003-01-01

The pelagic (i.e. fishes that spend most of their time swimming and feeding in the water column) fish assemblage was examined within a temperate estuary to determine the seasonal patterns of abundance, biomass, richness, and species composition. These measures were related to abiotic measures including temperature, salinity, water transparency, and depth. Pelagic fish (n<350 000) were sampled weekly from August 1995 through December 1996 in Great Bay in New Jersey, USA, with a pop net (5 m diameter, 5 m length, 3 mm cod end). The most frequently occurring and abundant species included Clupea harengus (frequency of occurrence, 27.4%; abundance, 80.5% of total catch), Menidia menidia (frequency of occurrence, 83.5%; abundance, 10.6% of total catch), Anchoa mitchilli (frequency of occurrence, 66.5%; abundance, 6.0% of total catch), and Anchoa hepsetus (frequency of occurrence, 23.1%; abundance, 1.9% of total catch). There were strong seasonal trends in species richness, total abundance, and total biomass with peaks in spring, summer, and autumn, and very low values for these parameters in winter. In addition, there were five seasonal groupings within this pelagic fish assemblage that were primarily, but not exclusively, represented by young-of-the-year (age 0+). Winter (December-March) was represented by adult Gasterosteus aculeatus and age 1+ by M. menidia. Spring (April-early June) was overwhelmingly dominated by age 0+ C. harengus. Early summer (late June-early July) was relatively species rich and characterized by age 0+ of Brevoortia tyrannus, Pomatomus saltatrix, Alosa pseudoharengus, and age 1+ of A. mitchilli. Late summer (late July-August) remained relatively species rich and included mostly age 0+ of A. mitchilli, A. hepsetus, and M. menidia. Autumn (September-November) continued to have high catches of age 0+ of M. menidia and A. mitchilli. As expected for temperate estuaries, the best of the measured abiotic predictors of these groupings included temperature, salinity, and degree of change in temperature. However, timing of life history characteristics, such as location, and timing of reproduction and migration also influenced the seasonal occurrence of these pelagic species. The large abundance and biomass of a relatively few species, as observed in this study, are typical of estuaries, although this is one of the few studies that have focused solely on the pelagic component of estuarine fish assemblages.

Best facilitated cortical activation during different stepping, treadmill, and robot-assisted walking training paradigms and speeds: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy neuroimaging study.

PubMed

Kim, Ha Yeon; Yang, Sung Phil; Park, Gyu Lee; Kim, Eun Joo; You, Joshua Sung Hyun

2016-01-01

Robot-assisted and treadmill-gait training are promising neurorehabilitation techniques, with advantages over conventional gait training, but the neural substrates underpinning locomotor control remain unknown particularly during different gait training modes and speeds. The present optical imaging study compared cortical activities during conventional stepping walking (SW), treadmill walking (TW), and robot-assisted walking (RW) at different speeds. Fourteen healthy subjects (6 women, mean age 30.06, years ± 4.53) completed three walking training modes (SW, TW, and RW) at various speeds (self-selected, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0  km/h). A functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) system determined cerebral hemodynamic changes associated with cortical locomotor network areas in the primary sensorimotor cortex (SMC), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), prefrontal cortex (PFC), and sensory association cortex (SAC). There was increased cortical activation in the SMC, PMC, and SMA during different walking training modes. More global locomotor network activation was observed during RW than TW or SW. As walking speed increased, multiple locomotor network activations were observed, and increased activation power spectrum. This is the first empirical evidence highlighting the neural substrates mediating dynamic locomotion for different gait training modes and speeds. Fast, robot-assisted gait training best facilitated cortical activation associated with locomotor control.

The supplementary motor area contributes to the timing of the anticipatory postural adjustment during step initiation in participants with and without Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Jacobs, J V; Lou, J S; Kraakevik, J A; Horak, F B

2009-12-01

The supplementary motor area (SMA) is thought to contribute to the generation of anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs, which act to stabilize supporting body segments prior to movement), but its precise role remains unclear. In addition, participants with Parkinson's disease (PD) exhibit impaired function of the SMA as well as decreased amplitudes and altered timing of the APA during step initiation, but the contribution of the SMA to these impairments also remains unclear. To determine how the SMA contributes to generating the APA and to the impaired APAs of participants with PD, we examined the voluntary steps of eight participants with PD and eight participants without PD, before and after disrupting the SMA and dorsolateral premotor cortex (dlPMC), in separate sessions, with 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Both groups exhibited decreased durations of their APAs after rTMS over the SMA but not over the dlPMC. Peak amplitudes of the APAs were unaffected by rTMS to either site. The symptom severity of the participants with PD positively correlated with the extent that rTMS over the SMA affected the durations of their APAs. The results suggest that the SMA contributes to the timing of the APA and that participants with PD exhibit impaired timing of their APAs, in part, due to progressive dysfunction of circuits associated with the SMA.