Transit service reliability

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-12-01

This report presents a comprehensive overview of the subject of transit service reliability and provides a framework for a program of demonstrations and research studies which could be carried out under the Service and Methods Demonstration program. ...

Studying the Greenhouse Effect: A Simple Demonstration.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Papageorgiou, G.; Ouzounis, K.

2000-01-01

Studies the parameters involved in a presentation of the greenhouse effect and describes a simple demonstration of this effect. Required equipment includes a 100-120 watt lamp, a 250mL beaker, and a thermometer capable of recording 0-750 degrees Celsius together with a small amount of chloroform. (Author/SAH)

The Responses of Economically Advantaged and Economically Disadvantaged Sixth Grade Pupils to Science Demonstrations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagner, Bartlett Adam

Compared were written, oral, and construction responses to science demonstrations of economically advantaged and disadvantaged sixth grade students. The study was designed to gain a greater understanding of academic performance of disadvantaged pupils in elementary school science. Five demonstrations were presented to each pupil, who then wrote…

Stories in Conversations and Presentations--A Comparative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brophy, Barry; Guerin, Suzanne

2018-01-01

Students receive little guidance on how to give the oral presentations that increasingly feature in third level modules. It has been observed that several communication tools employed effectively in conversation--in particular stories--are not used in presentations. The aim of this study was to demonstrate this effect and explore possible reasons…

Rubbertown NGEM Demonstration Project - Update to Industry

EPA Science Inventory

Follow-up communication to Rubbertown industry group as part of the planning process for the Rubbertown NGEM demonstration study. These slides are for discussion purposes and will not be presented publically beyond the project team and industry group.

Investigation of the Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction for Production of Oxygen From Mars Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyer, Tom; Zubrin, Robert

1997-01-01

The first phase of the research includes a comprehensive analytical study examining the potential applications for engineering subsystems and mission strategies made possible by such RWGS based subsystems, and will include an actual experimental demonstration and performance characterization of a full-scale brassboard RWGS working unit. By the time of this presentation the laboratory demonstration unit will not yet be operational but we will present the results of our analytical studies to date and plans for the ongoing work.

Pilot Study on Demonstration of Remedial Action Technologies for Contaminated Land and Groundwater Volumes 1 and 2 EPA/600/SR-93/012

EPA Science Inventory

This two-volume report presents information on a 5-yr pilot study (1986- 1991) sponsored by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Committee on the Challenges of Modern Society (CCMS) entitled "Demonstration of Remedial Action Technologies for Contaminated Land and Gr...

Framing effect debiasing in medical decision making.

PubMed

Almashat, Sammy; Ayotte, Brian; Edelstein, Barry; Margrett, Jennifer

2008-04-01

Numerous studies have demonstrated the robustness of the framing effect in a variety of contexts. The present study investigated the effects of a debiasing procedure designed to prevent the framing effect for young adults who made decisions based on hypothetical medical decision-making vignettes. The debiasing technique involved participants listing advantages and disadvantages of each treatment prior to making a choice. One hundred and two undergraduate students read a set of three medical treatment vignettes that presented information in terms of different outcome probabilities under either debiasing or control conditions. The framing effect was demonstrated by the control group in two of the three vignettes. The debiasing group successfully avoided the framing effect for both of these vignettes. These results further support previous findings of the framing effect as well as an effective debiasing technique. This study improved upon previous framing debiasing studies by including a control group and personal medical scenarios, as well as demonstrating debiasing in a framing condition in which the framing effect was demonstrated without a debiasing procedure. The findings suggest a relatively simple manipulation may circumvent the use of decision-making heuristics in patients.

Learners misperceive the benefits of redundant text in multimedia learning.

PubMed

Fenesi, Barbara; Kim, Joseph A

2014-01-01

Research on metacognition has consistently demonstrated that learners fail to endorse instructional designs that produce benefits to memory, and often prefer designs that actually impair comprehension. Unlike previous studies in which learners were only exposed to a single multimedia design, the current study used a within-subjects approach to examine whether exposure to both redundant text and non-redundant text multimedia presentations improved learners' metacognitive judgments about presentation styles that promote better understanding. A redundant text multimedia presentation containing narration paired with verbatim on-screen text (Redundant) was contrasted with two non-redundant text multimedia presentations: (1) narration paired with images and minimal text (Complementary) or (2) narration paired with minimal text (Sparse). Learners watched presentation pairs of either Redundant + Complementary, or Redundant + Sparse. Results demonstrate that Complementary and Sparse presentations produced highest overall performance on the final comprehension assessment, but the Redundant presentation produced highest perceived understanding and engagement ratings. These findings suggest that learners misperceive the benefits of redundant text, even after direct exposure to a non-redundant, effective presentation.

Imitation and Emulation by Dogs Using a Bidirectional Control Procedure

PubMed Central

Miller, Holly C.; Rayburn-Reeves, Rebecca; Zentall, Thomas R.

2009-01-01

A successful procedure for studying imitative behavior in non-humans is the bidirectional control procedure in which observers are exposed to a demonstrator that responds by moving a manipulandum in one of two different directions (e.g., left vs. right). Imitative learning is demonstrated when observers make the response in the direction that they observed it being made. This procedure controls for socially mediated effects (the mere presence of a demonstrator), stimulus enhancement (attention drawn to a manipulandum by its movement), and if an appropriate control is included, emulation (learning how the environment works). Recent research with dogs has found that dogs may not demonstrate imitative learning when the demonstrator is human. In the present research, we found that when odors were controlled for, dogs imitated the direction of a screen push demonstrated by another dog more than in a control condition in which they observed the screen move independently while another dog was present. Furthermore, we found that dogs would match the direction of screen push demonstrated by a human and they were equally likely to match the direction in which the screen moved independently while a human was present. PMID:18977419

Contrastive Analysis of English and Japanese Demonstratives from the Perspective of L1 and L2 Acquisition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Niimura, Tomomi; Hayashi, Brenda

1996-01-01

Presents a contrastive analysis of English and Japanese demonstratives based on the first- (L1) and second-language (L2) data of an earlier study. First, the traditional explanations and their alternative models for English and Japanese are presented, then, all models are tested with the L1 and L2 data, which leads to a discussion of the different…

Disinfectant Residual – Representative Monitoring & Maintaining Residuals

EPA Science Inventory

In this presentation we will: review history of distribution system chlorine monitoring siting, review State regulations and guidance, and present a case study demonstrating a chlorine monitoring locations evaluation

Disinfectant Residual – Representative Monitoring & Maintaining Residuals

EPA Science Inventory

In this presentation we will: review history of distribution system chlorine monitoring siting, review State regulations and guidance, and present a case study demonstrating a chlorine monitoring locations evaluation.

Scoping and sensitivity analyses for the Demonstration Tokamak Hybrid Reactor (DTHR)

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

Sink, D.A.; Gibson, G.

1979-03-01

The results of an extensive set of parametric studies are presented which provide analytical data of the effects of various tokamak parameters on the performance and cost of the DTHR (Demonstration Tokamak Hybrid Reactor). The studies were centered on a point design which is described in detail. Variations in the device size, neutron wall loading, and plasma aspect ratio are presented, and the effects on direct hardware costs, fissile fuel production (breeding), fusion power production, electrical power consumption, and thermal power production are shown graphically. The studies considered both ignition and beam-driven operations of DTHR and yielded results based onmore » two empirical scaling laws presently used in reactor studies. Sensitivity studies were also made for variations in the following key parameters: the plasma elongation, the minor radius, the TF coil peak field, the neutral beam injection power, and the Z/sub eff/ of the plasma.« less

Adipose‑derived stem cells and hyaluronic acid based gel compatibility, studied in vitro.

PubMed

Guo, Jiayan; Guo, Shu; Wang, Yuxin; Yu, Yanqiu

2017-10-01

Minimally invasive aesthetic and cosmetic procedures have increased in popularity. Injectable dermal fillers provide soft tissue augmentation, improve facial rejuvenation and wrinkles, and correct tissue defects. To investigate the use of adipose‑derived stem cells integrated with a hyaluronic acid based gel as a dermal filler, the present study used cytotoxicity studies, proliferation studies, adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, apoptosis assays and scanning electron microscopy. Although hyaluronic acid induced low levels of apoptosis in adipose‑derived stem cells, its significantly promoted proliferation of adipose‑derived stem cells. Hyaluronic acid demonstrates little toxicity against adipose‑derived stem cells. Adipose‑derived stem cells were able to differentiate into adipocytes and osteoblasts. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed that adipose‑derived stem cells maintained intact structures on the surface of hyaluronic acid as well as in it, and demonstrated abundant cell attachments. The present study demonstrated the compatibility of adipose‑derived stem cells and hyaluronic acid based gels in vitro.

Road surface erosion on the Jackson Demonstration State Forest: results of a pilot study

Treesearch

Brian Barrett; Rosemary Kosaka; David. Tomberlin

2012-01-01

This paper presents results of a 3 year pilot study of surface erosion on forest roads in the Jackson Demonstration State Forest in California’s coastal redwood region. Ten road segments representing a range of surface, grade, and ditch conditions were selected for the study. At each segment, settling basins with tipping buckets were installed to measure...

[Carcinomatous meningitis revealing a cancer: study of two cases].

PubMed

Samet, S; Belahsen, F; Triki, C; Masmoudi, H; Jlidi, R; Mhiri, C

2001-04-01

Meningeal Carcinomatosis (MC) is rare (4 to 5% of patients with solid tumors). We report two cases. The first case is a 53 year-old man presenting flaccid paraplegia and the second is a 76 year-old man presenting a clinical picture suggestive of normal pressure hydrocephalus. In the two cases, the diagnosis of MC was achieved by the demonstration of malignant cells in the CSF. Prognosis was poor in the two cases. The clinical presentation of MC is non specific and the diagnosis is only confirmed by demonstrating carcinomatous cells in CSF.

Disinfectant Residual: Representative Monitoring and Minimum Residual Implications

EPA Science Inventory

In this presentation we will: review history of distribution system chlorine monitoring siting, review State regulations and guidance, present a case study demonstrating a chlorine monitoring locations evaluation, and present an evaluation of Six–Year Review 3 (SYR3) disinfectant...

An Overview of an Experimental Demonstration Aerotow Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, James E.; Bowers, Albion H.; Lokos, William A.; Peters, Todd L.; Gera, Joseph

1998-01-01

An overview of an experimental demonstration of aerotowing a delta-wing airplane with low-aspect ratio and relatively high wing loading is presented. Aerotowing of future space launch configurations is a new concept, and the objective of the work described herein is to demonstrate the aerotow operation using an airplane configuration similar to conceptual space launch vehicles. Background information on the use of aerotow for a space launch vehicle is presented, and the aerotow system used in this demonstration is described. The ground tests, analytical studies, and flight planning used to predict system behavior and to enhance flight safety are detailed. The instrumentation suite and flight test maneuvers flown are discussed, preliminary performance is assessed, and flight test results are compared with the preflight predictions.

Damage suppression system using embedded SMA (shape memory alloy) foils in CFRP laminate structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogisu, Toshimichi; Shimanuki, Masakazu; Kiyoshima, Satoshi; Takaki, Junji; Takeda, Nobuo

2003-08-01

This paper presents an overview of the demonstrator program with respect to the damage growth suppression effects using embedded SMA foils in CFRP laminates. The damage growth suppression effects were demonstrated for the technical verification in order to apply to aircraft structure. In our previous studies, the authors already confirmed the damage growth suppression effects of CFRP laminates with embedded pre-strained SMA foils through both coupon and structural element tests. It was founded that these effects were obtained by the suppression of the strain energy release rate based on the suppression of the crack opening displacement due to the recovery stress of SMA foils through the detail observation of the damage behavior. In this study, these results were verified using the demonstrator test article, which was 1/3-scaled model of commercial airliner fuselage structure. For the demonstration of damage growth suppression effects, the evaluation area was located in the lower panel, which was dominated in tension load during demonstration. The evaluation area is the integrated stiffened panel including both "smart area" (CFRP laminate with embedded pre-strained SMA foils) and "conventional area" (standard CFRP laminate) for the direct comparison. The demonstration was conducted at 80 degree Celsius in smart area and room temperature (RT) in conventional area during quasi-static load-unload test method. As the test results, the demonstrator test article presented that the damage onset strain in the smart area was improved by 30% for compared with the conventional area. Therefore, the successful technical verification of the damage onset/growth suppression effect using the demonstrator presented the feasibility of the application of smart material and structural system to aircraft structures.

Strontium Removal: Full-Scale Ohio Demonstrations

EPA Science Inventory

The objectives of this presentation are to present a brief overview of past bench-scale research to evaluate the impact lime softening on strontium removal from drinking water and present full-scale drinking water treatment studies to impact of lime softening and ion exchange sof...

Radioscintigraphic demonstration of unsuspected urine extravasation

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

Bocchini, T.; Williams, W.; Patton, D.

Three cases of unsuspected urine extravasation first detected by radionuclide scintigraphy are presented with subsequent confirmation by CT and, retrograde pyelograms. A renal study done to rule out acute transplant rejection demonstrates gallbladder uptake which was initially thought to be consistent with urine extravasation.

32 CFR 634.27 - Speed-measuring devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... devices. Speed-measuring devices will be used in traffic control studies and enforcement programs. Signs.... (v) Demonstrate basic skills in checking calibration and operating the specific radar instrument(s). (vi) Demonstrate basic skills in preparing and presenting records and courtroom testimony relating to...

[Vertical fractures: apropos of 2 clinical cases].

PubMed

Félix Mañes Ferrer, J; Micò Muñoz, P; Sánchez Cortés, J L; Paricio Martín, J J; Miñana Laliga, R

1991-01-01

The aim of the study is to present a clinical review of the vertical root fractures. Two clinical cases are presented to demonstrates the criteria for obtaining a correct diagnosis of vertical root fractures.

THE NET IMPACT OF THE CARDOZA AREA DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM, 1964-1965. FIRST YEAR REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

FISHMAN, JACOB R.; JONES, ROY J.

A 1ST-YEAR REPORT OF AN EVALUATION STUDY OF ACTION AND DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS FOR DELINQUENCY PREVENTION AMONG URBAN GHETTO YOUTH IS PRESENTED. THE PURPOSE OF THE STUDY WAS TO DETERMINE THE NET EFFECTIVENESS OF THE INTERVENTION EFFORTS OF WASHINGTON ACTION FOR YOUTH IN A SCHOOL DISTRICT WITH A HIGH CONCENTRATION OF LOW-INCOME NEGRO YOUTH. THE…

Combining Event- and Variable-Centred Approaches to Institution-Facing Learning Analytics at the Unit of Study Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Nick; Montenegro, Maximiliano; Gonzalez, Carlos; Clasing, Paula; Sandoval, Augusto; Jara, Magdalena; Saurina, Elvira; Alarcón, Rosa

2017-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the utility of combining event-centred and variable-centred approaches when analysing big data for higher education institutions. It uses a large, university-wide data set to demonstrate the methodology for this analysis by using the case study method. It presents empirical findings about…

North Carolina State Supported Early Childhood Demonstration Centers' First Annual Evaluation 1969-70.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Learning Inst. of North Carolina, Durham.

The results of an evaluative study made of the 1969-70 North Carolina statewide kindergarten program for five-year-olds are presented. The subjects of the study were 317 children in eight early childhood demonstration centers (Experimental Group) and 52 children who did not attend kindergarten (Control Group). A pre-post test evaluation design was…

Time perspective as a predictor of massive multiplayer online role-playing game playing.

PubMed

Lukavska, Katerina

2012-01-01

This article focuses on the relationship between the time perspective (TP) personality trait and massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) playing. We investigate the question of frequency of playing. The TP was measured with Zimbardo's TP Inventory (ZTPI), which includes five factors-past negative, past positive, present hedonistic, present fatalistic, and future. The study used data from 154 MMORPG players. We demonstrated that TP partially explained differences within a group of players with respect to the frequency of playing. Significant positive correlations were found between present factors and the amount of time spent playing MMORPGs, and significant negative correlation was found between the future factor and the time spent playing MMORPGs. Our study also revealed the influence of future-present balance on playing time. Players who scored lower in future-present balance variables (their present score was relatively high compared with their future score) reported higher values in playing time. In contrast to referential studies on TP and drug abuse and gambling, present fatalistic TP was demonstrated to be a stronger predictor of extensive playing than present hedonistic TP, which opened the question of motivation for playing. The advantage of our study compared with other personality-based studies lies in the fact that TP is a stable but malleable personality trait with a direct link to playing behavior. Therefore, TP is a promising conceptual resource for excessive playing therapy.

Older Adults' Memory for Verbally Presented Medical Information

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bankoff, Sarah M.; Sandberg, Elisabeth Hollister

2012-01-01

Previous research demonstrates that patients typically have difficulty remembering information presented during healthcare consultations. This study examined how older adults learn and remember verbally presented medical information. Healthy older adults were tested for recall in experimental and field settings. Participants viewed a five-minute…

Trust, trolleys and social dilemmas: A replication study.

PubMed

Bostyn, Dries H; Roets, Arne

2017-05-01

The present manuscript addresses how perceived trustworthiness of cooperative partners in a social dilemma context is influenced by the moral judgments those partners make on Trolley-type moral dilemmas; an issue recently investigated by Everett, Pizarro, and Crockett (2016). The present research comprises 2 studies that were conducted independently, simultaneously with, and incognizant of the Everett studies. Whereas the present studies aimed at investigating the same research hypothesis, a different and more elaborate methodology was used, as such providing a conceptual replication opportunity and extension to the Everett et al. Overall, the present studies clearly confirmed the main finding of Everett et al., that deontologists are more trusted than consequentialists in social dilemma games. Study 1 replicates Everett et al.'s effect in the context of trust games. Study 2 generalizes the effect to public goods games, thus demonstrating that it is not specific to the type of social dilemma game used in Everett et al. Finally, both studies build on these results by demonstrating that the increased trust in deontologists may sometimes, but not always, be warranted: deontologists displayed increased cooperation rates but only in the public goods game and not in trust games. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Linguistic Factors Associated with Self-Inflicted Injury in Borderline Personality Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birdwell, Benjamin Park

2009-01-01

The present study builds on previous research, which demonstrated higher levels of depressive and interpersonal conflict language in first-person narrative accounts of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicide attempt (SA) in borderline personality disorder. The present study was designed to examine the semantic similarity of time-sequences…

Schools Where Parents Make A Difference.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davies, Don, Ed.

This book presents 11 case studies that demonstrate successful efforts to improve education through building new relationships between schools and communities. In addition to presenting the case studies, the book also contains an introductory chapter that discusses the potentials and pitfalls of local efforts at participatory democracy, as well as…

Organizational Effectiveness in Higher Education: Faculty Informal Structure as Social Capital

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dose, Jennifer J.

2012-01-01

Higher education institutions encounter complex external environments, requiring increasing responsiveness and innovation. Research on social capital has demonstrated that highly connected employee relational networks are more creative, effective, and exhibit higher member satisfaction. The present study examines one college to demonstrate how…

Demonstration of TRAF-NETSIM for traffic operations management : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1991-08-01

The utility of the simulation package TRAF-NETSIM to the traffic engineer is assessed and demonstrated by means of a case study. The methodology employed in performing the analysis is presented in a way that will aid future users of TRAF-NETSIM. The ...

[Immunocytochemical demonstration of astrocytes in brain sections combined with Nissl staining].

PubMed

Korzhevskiĭ, D E; Otellin, V A

2004-01-01

The aim of the present study was to develop an easy and reliable protocol of combined preparation staining, which would unite the advantages of immunocytochemical demonstration of astrocytes with the availability to evaluate functional state of neurons provided by Nissl technique. The presented protocol of paraffin sections processing allows to retain high quality of tissue structure and provides for selective demonstration of astrocytes using the monoclonal antibodies against glial fibrillary acidic protein and contrast Nissl staining of cells. The protocol can be used without any changes for processing of brain sections obtained from the humans and other mammals with the exception of mice and rabbits.

Picture or Text First? Explaining Sequence Effects When Learning with Pictures and Text

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eitel, Alexander; Scheiter, Katharina

2015-01-01

The present article reviews 42 studies investigating the role of sequencing of text and pictures for learning outcomes. Whereas several of the reviewed studies revealed better learning outcomes from presenting the picture before the text rather than after it, other studies demonstrated the opposite effect. Against the backdrop of theories on…

North-South Corridor Demonstration Project: Ethical and Logistical Challenges in the Design of a Demonstration Study of Early Antiretroviral Treatment for Long Distance Truck Drivers along a Transport Corridor through South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia

PubMed Central

Gomez, G. B.; Venter, W. D. F.; Lange, J. M. A.; Rees, H.; Hankins, C.

2013-01-01

Background. Long-distance truck drivers are at risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV and have suboptimal access to care. New HIV prevention strategies using antiretroviral drugs to reduce transmission risk (early antiretroviral therapy (ART) at CD4 count >350 cells/μL) have shown efficacy in clinical trials. Demonstration projects are needed to evaluate “real world” programme effectiveness. We present the protocol for a demonstration study to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and cost of an early ART intervention for HIV-positive truck drivers along a transport corridor across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, as part of an enhanced strategy to improve treatment adherence and retention in care. Methods and Analysis. This demonstration study would follow an observational cohort of truck drivers receiving early treatment. Our mixed methods approach includes quantitative, qualitative, and economic analyses. Key ethical and logistical issues are discussed (i.e., choice of drug regimen, recruitment of participants, and monitoring of adherence, behavioural changes, and adverse events). Conclusion. Questions specific to the design of tailored early ART programmes are amenable to operational research approaches but present substantial ethical and logistical challenges. Addressing these in demonstration projects can inform policy decisions regarding strategies to reduce health inequalities in access to HIV prevention and treatment programmes. PMID:23606977

Liraglutide attenuates the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells by modulating AMPK/mTOR signaling

PubMed Central

Hu, Xiong-Ke; Yin, Xin-Hua; Zhang, Hong-Qi; Guo, Chao-Feng; Tang, Ming-Xing

2016-01-01

Liraglutide, a synthetic analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1, is utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Liraglutide has been previously demonstrated to prevent osteoblastic differentiation of human vascular smooth muscle cells, resulting in the slowing of arterial calcification, however, its effect on bone formation remains unclear. The present study investigated the effect of liraglutide on osteoblastic differentiation using Alizarin Red S staining, and examined the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulatory effect by western blot analysis. The present study demonstrated that protein expression levels of phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) were downregulated in MC3T3-E1 cells during osteoblastic differentiation in commercial osteogenic differentiation medium, whereas protein expression levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) increased. Liraglutide was subsequently demonstrated to dose-dependently attenuate the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells, to upregulate p-AMPK, and downregulate p-mTOR and TGF-β protein expression levels. Treatment with an AMPK-specific inhibitor, Compound C, eradicated the effect of liraglutide on osteoblastic differentiation, and p-mTOR and TGF-β downregulation. An mTOR activator, MHY1485, also abolished the inhibitory effect of liraglutide on osteoblastic differentiation, and resulted in p-mTOR and TGF-β downregulation, but did not attenuate the liraglutide-induced increase in p-AMPK protein expression levels. The results of the present study demonstrate that liraglutide attenuates osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells via modulation of AMPK/mTOR signaling. The present study revealed a novel function of liraglutide, which contributes to the understanding of its pharmacological and physiological effects in clinical settings. PMID:27600753

Laser Communication Demonstration System (LCDS) and future mobile satellite services

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Chien-Chung; Wilhelm, Michael D.; Lesh, James R.

1995-01-01

The Laser Communications Demonstration System (LCDS) is a proposed in-orbit demonstration of high data rate laser communications technology conceived jointly by NASA and U.S. industry. The program objectives are to stimulate industry development and to demonstrate the readiness of high data rate optical communications in Earth orbit. For future global satellite communication systems using intersatellite links, laser communications technology can offer reduced mass and power requirements and higher channel bandwidths without regulatory constraints. As currently envisioned, LCDS will consist of one or two orbiting laser communications terminals capable of demonstrating high data rate (greater than 750Mbps) transmission in a dynamic space environment. Two study teams led by Motorola and Ball Aerospace are currently in the process of conducting a Phase A/B mission definition study of LCDS under contracts with JPL/NASA. The studies consist of future application survey, concept and requirements definition, and a point design of the laser communications flight demonstration. It is planned that a single demonstration system will be developed based on the study results. The Phase A/B study is expected to be completed by the coming June, and the current results of the study are presented in this paper.

Journal Publication of Material Presented at the 1967 Annual Meeting of the Geophysical Union During the Year Following the Meeting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johns Hopkins Univ., Baltimore, MD. Center for Research in Scientific Communication.

The April 1967 Annual Meeting of the American Geophysical Union was the subject of an investigation of scientific information exchange among geophysicists. The study focused on meeting presentation papers and drew a sample of 240 of the 800 presentation authors. The results of the meeting study demonstrated the currency of the work reported by…

A Photogate Flash Trigger and a Demonstration of Inertia.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Winters, Loren

1992-01-01

Describes a photogate electronic flash trigger that synchronizes flash discharge with high-speed events. Presents a photographic study of a high-speed collision demonstrating the passage of a BB through an elastic strip. Provides the schematic of the delay circuit utilized in the trigger. (MDH)

Active Learning in PhysicsTechnology and Research-based Techniques Emphasizing Interactive Lecture Demonstrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thornton, Ronald

2010-10-01

Physics education research has shown that learning environments that engage students and allow them to take an active part in their learning can lead to large conceptual gains compared to traditional instruction. Examples of successful curricula and methods include Peer Instruction, Just in Time Teaching, RealTime Physics, Workshop Physics, Scale-Up, and Interactive Lecture Demonstrations (ILDs). An active learning environment is often difficult to achieve in lecture sessions. This presentation will demonstrate the use of sequences of Interactive Lecture Demonstrations (ILDs) that use real experiments often involving real-time data collection and display combined with student interaction to create an active learning environment in large or small lecture classes. Interactive lecture demonstrations will be done in the area of mechanics using real-time motion probes and the Visualizer. A video tape of students involved in interactive lecture demonstrations will be shown. The results of a number of research studies at various institutions (including international) to measure the effectiveness of ILDs and guided inquiry conceptual laboratories will be presented.

Demecolcine-assisted enucleation for bovine cloning.

PubMed

Tani, Tetsuya; Shimada, Hiroaki; Kato, Yoko; Tsunoda, Yukio

2006-01-01

The present study demonstrated that demecolcine treatment for at least 30 min produces a membrane protrusion in metaphase II-stage bovine oocytes. The maternal chromosome mass is condensed within the protrusion, which makes it easy to remove the maternal chromosomes for nuclear transfer (NT). Maturation promoting factor activity, but not mitogen-activated protein kinase activity, increased up to 30% in oocytes during demecolcine treatment. One normal healthy calf was obtained after transfer of four NT blastocysts produced following demecolcine treatment. Demecolcine treatment did not increase the potential of NT oocytes to develop into blastocysts. The present study demonstrated that chemically-assisted removal of chromosomes is effective for bovine cloning.

Implementing an Early Intervention Program for Residential Students Who Present with Suicide Risk: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rivero, Estela M.; Cimini, M. Dolores; Bernier, Joseph E.; Stanley, Judith A.; Murray, Andrea D.; Anderson, Drew A.; Wright, Heidi R.

2014-01-01

Objective: This case study examined the effects of an early intervention program designed to respond to residential college students demonstrating risk for suicide. Participants: Participants were 108 undergraduates at a large northeastern public university referred to an early intervention program subsequent to presenting with risk factors for…

The Effectiveness of Computer-Based Spaced Repetition in Foreign Language Vocabulary Instruction: A Double-Blind Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chukharev-Hudilainen, Evgeny; Klepikova, Tatiana A.

2016-01-01

The purpose of the present paper is twofold; first, we present an empirical study evaluating the effectiveness of a novel CALL tool for foreign language vocabulary instruction based on spaced repetition of target vocabulary items. The study demonstrates that by spending an average of three minutes each day on automatically generated vocabulary…

Development and demonstration of marketing techniques for establishment of ride-sharing corporations in New York State. Final report

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

Peters, E.W.

1987-10-01

Convincing commuters to join car or vanpools can be a challenging task. Through the Energy Authority project, two guides were produced to assist in establishing ride-sharing corporations and in marketing ride-sharing services in New York State. The first guide explains how to set up a ride-sharing corporation; the second guide, developed following the completion of a Commuter Behavior Study and a six-month demonstration, discusses marketing ride-share services. The Commuter Behavior Study centered on an 18-page questionnaire mailed to 6,000 households in Long Island and upstate New York. The study's findings were incorporated into a marketing plan followed by the contractor,more » Island Rides, a Long Island-based ridesharing corporation, during a six-month demonstration project. By using the promotional techniques identified in the study, Island Rides experienced a 68% increase in ride-sharing applications during this successful demonstration. The results of both the study and the demonstration are presented in the report.« less

Educational Technology: A Conceptual Study in Metaphor.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Januszewski, Alan

Designed to analyze the term educational technology and to demonstrate that multiple conceptions of it exist simultaneously, this paper has four major objectives: (1) to present the importance of conceptual analysis for investigations in the field of educational technology; (2) to demonstrate that the use of metaphor is appropriate for…

Comprehensive Truck Size and Weight (TS&W) Study. Phase 1-synthesis, working paper 6 : traffic operations and truck size and weight regulations

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-04-01

This report presents the Exogenous Factors Test Plan for the national evaluation of the Los Angeles County Congestion Reduction Demonstration (LAC CRD) under the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) Congestion Reduction Demonstration...

Studying the Frictional Force Directions via Bristles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prasitpong, S.; Chitaree, R.; Rakkapao, S.

2010-01-01

We present simple apparatus designed to help Thai high school students visualize the directions of frictional forces. Bristles of toothbrushes, paintbrushes and scrubbing brushes are used to demonstrate the frictional forces acting in a variety of situations. These demonstrations, when followed by discussion of free-body diagrams, were found to be…

Flight demonstrator concept for key technologies enabling future reusable launch vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishimoto, Shinji; Fujii, Kenji; Mori, Takeshi

2005-07-01

A research center in JAXA has recently started research on reusable launch vehicles according to its plan placing emphasis on advanced launch technology. It is planned to demonstrate key technologies using a rocket-powered winged vehicle, and concept studies on the flight demonstrator have been conducted. This paper describes the present research plan and introduces the most compact vehicle concept among some versions under consideration.

Effects of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) on the liver of diabetic rats: a morphological and biochemical study.

PubMed

Bolkent, S; Yanardag, R; Ozsoy-Sacan, O; Karabulut-Bulan, O

2004-12-01

Parsley is used by diabetics in Turkey to reduce blood glucose. The present study aims to investigate both the morphological and biochemical effects of parsley on liver tissue. Rat hepatocytes were examined by light and electron microscopy. Degenerative changes were observed in the hepatocytes of diabetic rats. These degenerative changes were significantly reduced or absent in the hepatocytes of diabetic rats treated with parsley. Blood glucose levels, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were observed to be raised in diabetic rats. Diabetic rats treated with parsley demonstrated significantly lower levels of blood glucose, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase. The present study suggests that parsley demonstrates a significant hepatoprotective effect in diabetic rats. 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Upregulation of miR-598 promotes cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in human colorectal carcinoma by suppressing INPP5E expression

PubMed Central

Li, Kun-Ping; Fang, Yong-Ping; Liao, Jin-Qi; Duan, Jin-Dong; Feng, Li-Guang; Luo, Xiao-Zai; Liang, Zhi-Jian

2018-01-01

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Recently, microRNAs (miRs) have been considered as novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer. miR-598 is a poorly investigated miR. The underlying mechanism of miR-598 in CRC cells remains to be elucidated. In the present study, miR-598 was demonstrated to be significantly upregulated in CRC tissue by analyzing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus. The results of a polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that miR-598 expression was significantly upregulated in CRC tissues and cells. Gain of function and loss of function assays demonstrated that miR-598 significantly promoted cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. miR-598 was demonstrated to modulate cell functions by regulating 72 kDa inositol polyphosphate-5-phosphatase (INPP5E). In addition, knockdown of INPP5E counteracted the growth arrest caused by an miR-598-inhibitor. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that miR-598 contributed to cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in CRC by targeting INPP5E. PMID:29257251

Choosing the negative: A behavioral demonstration of morbid curiosity

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

This paper examined, with a behavioral paradigm, to what extent people choose to view stimuli that portray death, violence or harm. Based on briefly presented visual cues, participants made choices between highly arousing, negative images and positive or negative alternatives. The negative images displayed social scenes that involved death, violence or harm (e.g., war scene), or decontextualized, close-ups of physical harm (e.g., mutilated face) or natural threat (e.g., attacking shark). The results demonstrated that social negative images were chosen significantly more often than other negative categories. Furthermore, participants preferred social negative images over neutral images. Physical harm images and natural threat images were not preferred over neutral images, but were chosen in about thirty-five percent of the trials. These results were replicated across three different studies, including a study that presented verbal descriptions of images as pre-choice cues. Together, these results show that people deliberately subject themselves to negative images. With this, the present paper demonstrates a dynamic relationship between negative information and behavior and advances new insights into the phenomenon of morbid curiosity. PMID:28683147

Visible spatial contiguity of social information and reward affects social learning in brown capuchins (Sapajus apella) and children (Homo sapiens).

PubMed

Wood, Lara A; Whiten, Andrew

2017-11-01

Animal social learning is typically studied experimentally by the presentation of artificial foraging tasks. Although productive, results are often variable even for the same species. We present and test the hypothesis that one cause of variation is that spatial distance between rewards and the means of reward release causes conflicts for participants' attentional focus. We investigated whether spatial contiguity between a visible reward and the means of release would affect behavioral responses that evidence social learning, testing 21 brown capuchins ( Sapajus apella ), a much-studied species with variant evidence for social learning, and one hundred eighty 2- to 4-year-old human children ( Homo sapiens ), a benchmark species known for a strong social learning disposition. Participants were presented with a novel transparent apparatus where a reward was either proximal or distal to a demonstrated means of releasing it. A distal reward location decreased attention toward the location of the demonstration and impaired subsequent success in gaining rewards. Generally, the capuchins produced the alternative method to that demonstrated, whereas children copied the method demonstrated, although a distal reward location reduced copying in younger children. We conclude that some design features in common social learning tasks may significantly degrade the evidence for social learning. We have demonstrated this for 2 different primates but suggest that it is a significant factor to control for in social learning research across all taxa. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Metropolitan Forensic Anthropology Team (MFAT) studies in identification: 1. Race and sex assessment by discriminant function analysis of the postcranial skeleton.

PubMed

Taylor, J V; DiBennardo, R; Linares, G H; Goldman, A D; DeForest, P R

1984-07-01

A case study is presented to demonstrate the utility of the team approach to the identification of human remains, and to illustrate a methodological innovation developed by MFAT. Case 1 represents the first of several planned case studies, each designed to present new methodological solutions to standard problems in identification. The present case describes a test, by application, of race and sex assessment of the postcranial skeleton by discriminant function analysis.

Development of transethosomes formulation for dermal fisetin delivery: Box-Behnken design, optimization, in vitro skin penetration, vesicles-skin interaction and dermatokinetic studies.

PubMed

Moolakkadath, Thasleem; Aqil, Mohd; Ahad, Abdul; Imam, Syed Sarim; Iqbal, Babar; Sultana, Yasmin; Mujeeb, Mohd; Iqbal, Zeenat

2018-05-07

The present study was conducted for the optimization of transethosomes formulation for dermal fisetin delivery. The optimization of the formulation was carried out using "Box-Behnken design". The independent variables were Lipoid S 100, ethanol and sodium cholate. The prepared formulations were characterized for vesicle size, entrapment efficiency and in vitro skin penetration study. The vesicles-skin interaction, confocal laser scanning microscopy and dermatokinetic studies were performed with optimized formulation. Results of the present study demonstrated that the optimized formulation presented vesicle size of 74.21 ± 2.65 nm, zeta potential of -11.0 mV, entrapment efficiency of 68.31 ± 1.48% and flux of 4.13 ± 0.17 µg/cm 2 /h. The TEM image of optimized formulation exhibited sealed and spherical shape vesicles. Results of thermoanalytical techniques demonstrated that the prepared transethosomes vesicles formulation had fluidized the rigid membrane of rat's skin for smoother penetration of fisetin transethosomes. The confocal study results presented well distribution and penetration of Rhodamine B loaded transethosomes vesicles formulation up to deeper layers of the rat's skin as compared to the Rhodamine B-hydro alcoholic solution. Present study data revealed that the developed transethosomes vesicles formulation was found to be a potentially useful drug carrier for fisetin dermal delivery.

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

Ellingson, W.A.

This broad-base materials engineering program, begun in October 1974, includes studies on both ceramic (refractory) and metallic materials presently being used or intended for use in coal-conversion systems. Appropriate laboratory and field experiments are integrated such that the results have immediate impact on the present pilot-plant and proposed demonstration-plant designs. The report presents the technical accomplishments.

The effect of exercise on skeletal muscle fibre type distribution in obesity: From cellular levels to clinical application.

PubMed

Pattanakuhar, Sintip; Pongchaidecha, Anchalee; Chattipakorn, Nipon; Chattipakorn, Siriporn C

Skeletal muscles play important roles in metabolism, energy expenditure, physical strength, and locomotive activity. Skeletal muscle fibre types in the body are heterogeneous. They can be classified as oxidative types and glycolytic types with oxidative-type are fatigue-resistant and use oxidative metabolism, while fibres with glycolytic-type are fatigue-sensitive and prefer glycolytic metabolism. Several studies demonstrated that an obese condition with abnormal metabolic parameters has been negatively correlated with the distribution of oxidative-type skeletal muscle fibres, but positively associated with that of glycolytic-type muscle fibres. However, some studies demonstrated otherwise. In addition, several studies demonstrated that an exercise training programme caused the redistribution of oxidative-type skeletal muscle fibres in obesity. In contrast, some studies showed inconsistent findings. Therefore, the present review comprehensively summarizes and discusses those consistent and inconsistent findings from clinical studies, regarding the association among the distribution of skeletal muscle fibre types, obese condition, and exercise training programmes. Furthermore, the possible underlying mechanisms and clinical application of the alterations in muscle fibre type following obesity are presented and discussed. Copyright © 2016 Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Co-Organization of Demonstratives and Pointing Gestures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooperrider, Kensy

2016-01-01

Demonstratives and pointing gestures are universal, early emerging, and ubiquitous, and it has long been claimed that there is a special relationship between them. But what exactly is the nature of this relationship? The present study investigates this question using a referential communication task. Speakers referred to targets that were near or…

Improving EFL Learners' Pronunciation of English through Quiz-Demonstration-Practice-Revision (QDPR)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moedjito

2018-01-01

This study investigates the effectiveness of Quiz-Demonstration-Practice-Revision (QDPR) in improving EFL learners' pronunciation of English. To achieve the goal, the present researcher conducted a one-group pretest-posttest design. The experimental group was selected using a random sampling technique with consideration of the inclusion criteria.…

Rotational Stability--An Amusing Physical Paradox

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sendra, Carlos M.; Picca, Fabricio Della; Gil, Salvador

2007-01-01

Here we present a simple and amusing device that demonstrates some surprising results of the dynamics of the rotation of a symmetrical rigid body. This system allows for a qualitative demonstration or a quantitative study of the rotation stability of a symmetric top. A simple and inexpensive technique is proposed to carry out quantitative…

Demonstration of vessels in CNS and other organs by AMG silver enhancement of colloidal gold particles dispersed in gelatine.

PubMed

Danscher, G; Andreasen, A

1997-12-01

We present a new autometallographic technique for demonstrating vessels and other small cavities at light microscopy (LM) and electron microscopy (EM) levels. It is possible to obtain detailed knowledge of the 3-D appearance of the vascular system by exchanging blood with a 40 degrees C, 8% gelatine solution containing colloidal gold particles (gold gelatine solution, GGS) and ensuing silver enhancement of the gold particles by autometallography (AMG). The GGS-AMG technique demonstrates the vascular system as a dark web that can be studied in cryostat, vibratome, methacrylate, paraffin and Epon sections at all magnifications. The infused GGS becomes increasingly viscous and finally becomes rigid when the temperature falls below 20 degrees C. An additional advantage of this technique is the fact that none of the tested counterstains or immunotechniques interfere with this AMG approach. The GGS-AMG technique is demonstrated on rat brains but can be applied to any organ. We believe that the present technique is valuable for both experimental studies and routine pathology.

Results of EPA Pilot Studies on Arsenic Removal

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation will summarize the results of several projects of the USEPA Arsenic Demonstration Program. The presentation will begin with a summary of the current national compliance data of the arsenic regulation including the number and location of MCL violations. The sec...

Arsenic Removal from Drinking Water Small Systems Research

EPA Science Inventory

This Power Point presentation will summarize some of the results from Arsenic Demonstration Program with the main focus on the adsorptive media systems used by small systems. The presentation will also describe the results of recent regeneration studies conducted on the arsenic ...

Jason 1 Investigation: Altimetric Studies of Ocean Tidal Dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Egbert, Gary D.

2004-01-01

Two papers on tidal dissipation were completed and published. The first of these extended our earlier work, which focused on the dominant M2 constituent, to include 7 additional constituents. In addition to confirming a total deep water dissipation total very close to 1 TW, this study demonstrated significant differences in the distribution of dissipation between diurnal and semi-diurnal constituents. The second paper involved an extensive modeling study of tides in the present day and the last glacial maximum. In this study we showed that accuracy of tidal solutions for the present day Ocean were significantly improved by including a parameterization of internal tide drag over rough topography in the deep ocean. It was also demonstrated that a complete self-consistent treatment of Ocean self attraction and tidal loading was required for accurate solutions.

Tuberculous Orbital Abscess Associated with Thyroid Tuberculosis

PubMed Central

Sharma, Kumudini; Kanaujia, Vikas; Jain, Anu; Bains, Sukhdeep; Suman, Suvarna

2011-01-01

Purpose To report an unusual presentation of tuberculosis. Case Report A six-year old boy presented with left upper lid swelling of 15 days’ duration and an asymptomatic midline neck mass from 2 months ago. Imaging studies, and microbiologic tests which demonstrated acid-fast bacilli in the fine needle aspirate of the thyroid mass, both confirmed a diagnosis of cold tuberculous thyroid abscess with presumed hematogenous spread to the orbit. The patient demonstrated marked improvement of both lesions with antitubercular drugs. Conclusion This case illustrates a very rare association of orbital and thyroid tuberculosis. PMID:22454737

Demonstration of Human-Autonomy Teaming Principles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shively, Robert Jay

2016-01-01

Known problems with automation include lack of mode awareness, automation brittleness, and risk of miscalibrated trust. Human-Autonomy Teaming (HAT) is essential for improving these problems. We have identified some critical components of HAT and ran a part-task study to introduce these components to a ground station that supports flight following of multiple aircraft. Our goal was to demonstrate, evaluate, and refine HAT principles. This presentation provides a brief summary of the study and initial findings.

The undermining effect of facial attractiveness on brain responses to fairness in the Ultimatum Game: an ERP study

PubMed Central

Ma, Qingguo; Hu, Yue; Jiang, Shushu; Meng, Liang

2015-01-01

To investigate the time course of the neural processing of facial attractiveness and its influence on fairness consideration during social interactions, event-related potentials (ERP) were recorded from 21 male subjects performing a two-person Ultimatum Game (UG). During this bargaining game, the male subjects played responders who decided whether to accept offers from female proposers, whose facial images (grouped as “attractive” and “unattractive”) were presented prior to the offer presentation. The behavioral data demonstrated that the acceptance ratio increased with the fairness level of the offers and, more importantly, the subjects were more likely to accept unfair offers when presented with the attractive-face condition compared with the unattractive-face condition. The reaction times (RTs) for five offers (1:9, 2:8, 3:7, 4:6, and 5:5) in the unattractive-face condition were not significantly different. In contrast, the subjects reacted slower to the attractive proposers' unfair offers and quicker to fair offers. The ERP analysis of the face presentation demonstrated a decreased early negativity (N2) and enhanced late positive potentials (LPPs) elicited by the attractive faces compared with the unattractive faces. In addition, the feedback-related negativity (FRN) in response to an offer presentation was not significantly different for the unfair (1:9 and 2:8) and fair (4:6 and 5:5) offers in the attractive-face condition. However, the unfair offers generated larger FRNs compared with the fair offers in the unattractive-face condition (consistent with prior studies). A similar effect was identified for P300. The present study demonstrated an undermining effect of proposer facial attractiveness on responder consideration of offer fairness during the UG. PMID:25805967

Berberine enhances the anti‑tumor activity of tamoxifen in drug‑sensitive MCF‑7 and drug‑resistant MCF‑7/TAM cells.

PubMed

Wen, Chunjie; Wu, Lanxiang; Fu, Lijuan; Zhang, Xue; Zhou, Honghao

2016-09-01

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, has been previously demonstrated to possess anti‑breast cancer properties. Tamoxifen is widely used in the prevention and treatment of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Thus, the aim of the present study was to assess whether berberine enhanced the anticancer effect of tamoxifen, and the underlying mechanism involved in this combined effect in tamoxifen-sensitive (MCF-7) and tamoxifen-resistant (MCF-7/TAM) cells using MTS, flow cytometry and western blot assays. The results indicated that berberine demonstrated dose‑ and time‑dependent anti‑proliferative activity in MCF‑7 and MCF‑7/TAM cells. Furthermore, the combination of berberine and tamoxifen induced cell growth inhibition more effectively than tamoxifen alone. The present study also demonstrated that combinational treatment is more effective in inducing G1 phase arrest and activating apoptosis compared tamoxifen alone, which may be due to upregulation of P21 expression and downregulation of the B‑cell CLL/lymphoma 2(Bcl‑2)/Bcl‑2 associated X protein ratio. The results of the present study suggested that berberine may potentially be useful as an adjuvant agent in cancer chemotherapy to enhance the effect of tamoxifen, which will be useful for anti‑tumor therapy and further research.

In vivo demonstration of surgical task assistance using miniature robots.

PubMed

Hawks, Jeff A; Kunowski, Jacob; Platt, Stephen R

2012-10-01

Laparoscopy is beneficial to patients as measured by less painful recovery and an earlier return to functional health compared to conventional open surgery. However, laparoscopy requires the manipulation of long, slender tools from outside the patient's body. As a result, laparoscopy generally benefits only patients undergoing relatively simple procedures. An innovative approach to laparoscopy uses miniature in vivo robots that fit entirely inside the abdominal cavity. Our previous work demonstrated that a mobile, wireless robot platform can be successfully operated inside the abdominal cavity with different payloads (biopsy, camera, and physiological sensors). We hope that these robots are a step toward reducing the invasiveness of laparoscopy. The current study presents design details and results of laboratory and in vivo demonstrations of several new payload designs (clamping, cautery, and liquid delivery). Laboratory and in vivo cooperation demonstrations between multiple robots are also presented.

Autonomous Motivation and Pro-Environmental Behaviours among Bedouin Students in Israel: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaplan, Haya; Madjar, Nir

2015-01-01

Promoting pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs) among students is a major concern for educators. The present article presents an educational program based on a self-determination theory framework (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2000) and a study demonstrating that working according to the theoretical principles presented in the program leads to the desired…

Brain metastasis of crystal-deficient, CD68-positive alveolar soft part sarcoma: ultrastructural features and differential diagnosis

PubMed Central

Cykowski, Matthew D.; Hicks, John; Sandberg, David I.; Olar, Adriana; Bridge, Julia A.; Greipp, Patricia T.; Navarro, Patricia; Kolodziej, Steven; Bhattacharjee, Meenakshi B.

2014-01-01

We report a case of alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) presenting as an isolated frontal lobe metastasis. The tumor demonstrated little or no immunoreactivity for a broad panel of antibodies yet strong, diffuse immunoreactivity with CD68. On electron microscopy, characteristic rectangular to rhomboid crystalline inclusions were not present. Electron-dense granules resembling peroxisomes were present, sometimes in association with elongated granular structures having a periodic, lattice-like arrangement. Metastatic ASPS was confirmed by demonstration of an ASPSCR1-TFE3 fusion and imaging studies that excluded metastatic Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma. The primary site was subsequently identified in the lower extremity. PMID:25268941

Systems definition study for shuttle demonstration flights of large space structures. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The development of large space structure technology is discussed, with emphasis on space fabricated structures which are automatically manufactured in space from sheet-strip materials and assembled on-orbit. Definition of a flight demonstration involving an Automated Beam Builder and the building and assembling of large structures is presented.

A Single-Case Experimental Demonstration of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy with Two Clients with Severe Interpersonal Problems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oshiro, Claudia Kami Bastos; Kanter, Jonathan; Meyer, Sonia Beatriz

2012-01-01

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) is emerging as an effective psychotherapy for psychiatric clinical cases. However, there is little research demonstrating the process of change of FAP. The present study evaluated the introduction and withdrawal of FAP interventions on therapy-interfering verbal behaviors of two participants who were in…

Influence of the cortical midline structures on moral emotion and motivation in moral decision-making.

PubMed

Han, Hyemin; Chen, Jingyuan; Jeong, Changwoo; Glover, Gary H

2016-04-01

The present study aims to examine the relationship between the cortical midline structures (CMS), which have been regarded to be associated with selfhood, and moral decision making processes at the neural level. Traditional moral psychological studies have suggested the role of moral self as the moderator of moral cognition, so activity of moral self would present at the neural level. The present study examined the interaction between the CMS and other moral-related regions by conducting psycho-physiological interaction analysis of functional images acquired while 16 subjects were solving moral dilemmas. Furthermore, we performed Granger causality analysis to demonstrate the direction of influences between activities in the regions in moral decision-making. We first demonstrate there are significant positive interactions between two central CMS seed regions-i.e., the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC)-and brain regions associated with moral functioning including the cerebellum, brainstem, midbrain, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex and anterior insula (AI); on the other hand, the posterior insula (PI) showed significant negative interaction with the seed regions. Second, several significant Granger causality was found from CMS to insula regions particularly under the moral-personal condition. Furthermore, significant dominant influence from the AI to PI was reported. Moral psychological implications of these findings are discussed. The present study demonstrated the significant interaction and influence between the CMS and morality-related regions while subject were solving moral dilemmas. Given that, activity in the CMS is significantly involved in human moral functioning. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modeling noisy resonant system response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weber, Patrick Thomas; Walrath, David Edwin

2017-02-01

In this paper, a theory-based model replicating empirical acoustic resonant signals is presented and studied to understand sources of noise present in acoustic signals. Statistical properties of empirical signals are quantified and a noise amplitude parameter, which models frequency and amplitude-based noise, is created, defined, and presented. This theory-driven model isolates each phenomenon and allows for parameters to be independently studied. Using seven independent degrees of freedom, this model will accurately reproduce qualitative and quantitative properties measured from laboratory data. Results are presented and demonstrate success in replicating qualitative and quantitative properties of experimental data.

A cost benefit evaluation of the LANDSAT follow-on program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Results are presented of a benefit and cost study for the LANDSAT Follow-on system with a thematic mapper. The analysis shows that the present worth of the benefits exceeds the present worth of the costs by a factor between 6.5 and 13 using a 10 percent discount rate and an infinite horizon for both. This study focuses only on major, demonstrated applications, conservatively evaluated. No benefits have been included except where a definite need for the information has been shown, a mechanism for disseminating the information has been defined, a technical capability has been demonstrated, and a defendable method of evaluating the economic worth has been developed. This approach has meant that certain applications with definite promise and substantial likely benefits could not be evaluated or assigned any benefits. Mention is made of these areas, however, either in the appropriate subject chapter or in the final chapter on non-quantified benefits.

Chemical synthesis of battery grade super-iron barium and potassium Fe(VI) ferrate compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Licht, Stuart; Naschitz, Vera; Liu, Bing; Ghosh, Susanta; Halperin, Nadezhda; Halperin, Leonid; Rozen, Dmitri

The chemical preparation of high purity potassium and barium ferrates for alkaline electrochemical storage are presented. The synthesized salts are used to demonstrate a variety of high capacity super-iron (Zn anode) alkaline AAA cell configurations which utilize these Fe(V) salts. Results of 500 days, full stability, of the synthesized K 2FeO 4 are presented. Synthetic pathways yielding 80-100 g of 96.5-99.5% pure K 2FeO 4 and BaFeO 4 are presented, and the products of these syntheses are demonstrated to provide a high energy electrochemical discharge in a variety of AAA alkaline cells. BaFeO 4 super-iron alkaline AAA cells provide over 0.8 W h during 2.8 Ω discharge, yielding over 200% higher capacity than conventional alkaline batteries. The barium super-iron cell configurations studied provide higher capacity than the potassium super-iron alkaline cell configurations studied.

Improving safety on rural local and tribal roads site safety analysis - user guide #1.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-08-01

This User Guide presents an example of how rural local and Tribal practitioners can study conditions at a preselected site. It demonstrates the step-by-step safety analysis process presented in Improving Safety on Rural Local and Tribal Roads Saf...

Environmental Impact of Asbestos Cement Pipe Renewal Technologies (WaterRF Report 4465)

EPA Science Inventory

This report summarizes asbestos regulations within the United States and presents current utility practices for a select number of utilities in North America and Australia. In addition, two real-world renewal demonstrations are presented as case studies examining the impact of pi...

The implications of value conflict: how disagreement on values affects self-involvement and perceived common ground.

PubMed

Kouzakova, Marina; Ellemers, Naomi; Harinck, Fieke; Scheepers, Daan

2012-06-01

This article presents two studies demonstrating the implications of having different values (vs. interests) in a situation where people take opposite positions. Study 1 examined how people respond to a range of conflict issues that were framed either as referring to conflicting values or as referring to conflicting interests. Study 2 used a more immersive methodology, in which participants were led to consider either their values or interests in taking up a particular position, after which they were presented with a confederate who took up the opposite position. Results of both studies converge to demonstrate that framing a particular conflict issue in terms of values causes people to experience more self-involvement and to perceive less common ground. This result can be seen as a potential explanation of why value conflicts tend to escalate more easily than conflicts of interests and also offers scope for interventions directed at value conflict resolution.

Hydronephrosis Presenting 6 Months After Sacral Colpopexy: Case Report and Literature Review.

PubMed

Weber LeBrun, Emily; Santamaria, Estefania; Moy, Louis

The aim of this study was to describe a case of uterovaginal prolapse managed with robotic-assisted sacral colpopexy complicated by severe right-sided hydronephrosis despite normal intraoperative cystoscopy. A 68-year-old woman presented with a worsening vaginal bulge over the past 2 years. Tricompartment stage 2 uterovaginal prolapse, with dominant cystocele and skin erosion at the posterior fourchette from prolapse friction, was identified on physical examination, and the patient underwent pelvic reconstructive surgery, including sacral colpopexy. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 4 after being treated for a urinary tract infection. At her 6-week postoperative visit, the patient demonstrated normal vaginal support. She presented 6 months postoperatively with right-sided hydronephrosis with an almost imperceptible stricture where the right iliac vessels cross the pelvic brim, demonstrating a delayed manifestation of ureteral injury. She underwent open ureteroscopy, ureteroneocystostomy with vesicopsoas hitch, and ureteral stent placement. Ureteroscopy demonstrated a very mild narrowed caliber of the ureter just above the sacroiliac joint without overt obstruction. Follow-up intravenous pyelogram demonstrated no evidence of damage or obstruction. At nearly 1-year follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic and had normal renal function. This case demonstrates the challenges of an uncommon, but highly morbid, complication of pelvic reconstructive surgery. Even when adequate visualization of the ureters and delicate ureteral dissection is achieved throughout surgery, occult injuries can still occur. Surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion of ureteral injury when evaluating patients for late presentations of postoperative complications.

Results of a Formal Methods Demonstration Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelly, J.; Covington, R.; Hamilton, D.

1994-01-01

This paper describes the results of a cooperative study conducted by a team of researchers in formal methods at three NASA Centers to demonstrate FM techniques and to tailor them to critical NASA software systems. This pilot project applied FM to an existing critical software subsystem, the Shuttle's Jet Select subsystem (Phase I of an ongoing study). The present study shows that FM can be used successfully to uncover hidden issues in a highly critical and mature Functional Subsystem Software Requirements (FSSR) specification which are very difficult to discover by traditional means.

Localization and function of ATP-sensitive potassium channels in human skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Nielsen, Jens Jung; Kristensen, Michael; Hellsten, Ylva; Bangsbo, Jens; Juel, Carsten

2003-02-01

The present study investigated the localization of ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels in human skeletal muscle and the functional importance of these channels for human muscle K+ distribution at rest and during muscle activity. Membrane fractionation based on the giant vesicle technique or the sucrose-gradient technique in combination with Western blotting demonstrated that the KATP channels are mainly located in the sarcolemma. This localization was confirmed by immunohistochemical measurements. With the microdialysis technique, it was demonstrated that local application of the KATP channel inhibitor glibenclamide reduced (P < 0.05) interstitial K+ at rest from approximately 4.5 to 4.0 mM, whereas the concentration in the control leg remained constant. Glibenclamide had no effect on the interstitial K+ accumulation during knee-extensor exercise at a power output of 60 W. In contrast to in vitro conditions, the present study demonstrated that under in vivo conditions the KATP channels are active at rest and contribute to the accumulation of interstitial K+.

A Hands-on Physical Analog Demonstration of Real-Time Volcano Deformation Monitoring with GNSS/GPS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, J. R.; Schobelock, J.; Nguyen, T. T.; Rajaonarison, T. A.; Malloy, S.; Njinju, E. A.; Guerra, L.; Stamps, D. S.; Glesener, G. B.

2017-12-01

Teaching about volcano deformation and how scientists study these processes using GNSS/GPS may present some challenge since the volcanoes and/or GNSS/GPS equipment are not quite accessible to most teachers. Educators and curriculum materials specialists have developed and shared a number of activities and demonstrations to help students visualize volcanic processes and ways scientist use GNSS/GPS in their research. From resources provided by MEDL (the Modeling and Educational Demonstrations Laboratory) in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech, we combined multiple materials and techniques from these previous works to produce a hands-on physical analog model from which students can learn about GNSS/GPS studies of volcano deformation. The model functions as both a qualitative and quantitative learning tool with good analogical affordances. In our presentation, we will describe multiple ways of teaching with the model, what kinds of materials can be used to build it, and ways we think the model could be enhanced with the addition of Vernier sensors for data collection.

CONTROLLING STUDENT RESPONSES DURING VISUAL PRESENTATIONS--STUDIES IN TELEVISED INSTRUCTION, THE ROLE OF VISUALS IN VERBAL LEARNING, REPORT 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

GROPPER, GEORGE L.

THIS IS A REPORT OF TWO STUDIES IN WHICH PRINCIPLES OF PROGRAMED INSTRUCTION WERE ADAPTED FOR VISUAL PRESENTATIONS. SCIENTIFIC DEMONSTRATIONS WERE PREPARED WITH A VISUAL PROGRAM AND A VERBAL PROGRAM ON--(1) ARCHIMEDES' LAW AND (2) FORCE AND PRESSURE. RESULTS SUGGESTED THAT RESPONSES ARE MORE READILY BROUGHT UNDER THE CONTROL OF VISUAL PRESENTATION…

Does My Baby Really Look Like Me? Using Tests for Resemblance between Parent and Child to Teach Topics in Categorical Data Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Froelich, Amy G.; Nettleton, Dan

2013-01-01

In this article, we present a study to test whether neutral observers perceive a resemblance between a parent and a child. We demonstrate the general approach for two separate parent/ child pairs using survey data collected from introductory statistics students serving as neutral observers. We then present ideas for incorporating the study design…

Parametric and experimental analysis using a power flow approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuschieri, J. M.

1990-01-01

A structural power flow approach for the analysis of structure-borne transmission of vibrations is used to analyze the influence of structural parameters on transmitted power. The parametric analysis is also performed using the Statistical Energy Analysis approach and the results are compared with those obtained using the power flow approach. The advantages of structural power flow analysis are demonstrated by comparing the type of results that are obtained by the two analytical methods. Also, to demonstrate that the power flow results represent a direct physical parameter that can be measured on a typical structure, an experimental study of structural power flow is presented. This experimental study presents results for an L shaped beam for which an available solution was already obtained. Various methods to measure vibrational power flow are compared to study their advantages and disadvantages.

Planetary Science and Spacecraft Analogs in the Classroom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edberg, S. J.; McConnell, S. L.

2000-12-01

The Cassini Program Outreach Team has developed a number of classroom demonstrations and activities that present science investigation techniques and spacecraft flight operations. These activities and demonstrations include analogs to planetary magnetic field orientations, ring particle and atmospheric scattering, thermal inertia studies, body-mounted vs. scan platform-mounted instrument operations on spacecraft, gravity assist, and many others. These curriculum supplements utilize inexpensive, commonly available materials that can be found in household kitchens, backyards, and hardware and variety stores. While designed for middle school classrooms, these activities are easily modified for use in both elementary and high school classes. We will demonstrate several of our activities and present information on others. This research was carried out at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, under a contract with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Planetary Science and Spacecraft Analogs in the Classroom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edberg, S. J.; McConnell, S. L.

2000-10-01

The Cassini Program Outreach Team has developed a number of classroom demonstrations and activities that present science investigation techniques and spacecraft flight operations. These activities and demonstrations include analogs to planetary magnetic field orientations, ring particle and atmospheric scattering, thermal inertia studies, body-mounted vs. scan platform-mounted instrument operations on spacecraft, gravity assist, and many others. These curriculum supplements utilize inexpensive, commonly available materials that can be found in household kitchens, backyards, and hardware and variety stores. While designed for middle school classrooms, these activities are easily modified for use in both elementary and high school classes. We will demonstrate several of our activities and present information on others. This research was carried out at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, under a contract with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Waveguide Multimode Directional Coupler for Harvesting Harmonic Power from the Output of Traveling-Wave Tube Amplifiers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Rainee N.; Wintucky, Edwin G.

2017-01-01

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and test results for a novel waveguide multimode directional coupler (MDC). The coupler fabricated from dissimilar frequency band waveguides, is capable of isolating power at the 2nd harmonic frequency from the fundamental power at the output port of traveling-wave tube amplifiers. Test results from proof-of-concept demonstrations are presented for Ku/Ka-band and Ka/E-band MDCs, which demonstrate sufficient power in the 2nd harmonic for a space borne beacon source for mm-wave atmospheric propagation studies.

Foreign Language Listening Anxiety: A Self-Presentational View

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kimura, Harumi

2017-01-01

This study used a self-presentational framework to investigate second language listening anxiety among university students and demonstrated that second language listening involves social concerns that are specific to second language settings. A set of anxiety questionnaires was administered to 1,177 students, and 17 learners provided verbal…

Risk, Resilience, and Recovery

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Werner, Emmy

2012-01-01

In 1955, the first longitudinal study of resilience began on the island of Kauai. This research continues to the present. This article presents an interview with Emmy Werner, the principal investigator. In a series of five books published over a period of thirty years, she demonstrated the remarkable ability of children from difficult backgrounds…

Disciplining Students Receiving Special Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gordon, Vincent H. A., Jr.

2017-01-01

A brief synopsis of the legality of disciplining students with special needs in public education is presented. An example of a case study is also presented from the experience of the author demonstrating laws surrounding providing students with a free and public education (FAPE). Examples of the application of the laws protecting students' rights…

The Influence of Stimulus Properties on Category Construction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milton, Fraser; Wills, A. J.

2004-01-01

It has been demonstrated that when people free classify stimuli presented simultaneously in an array, they have a preference to categorize by a single dimension. However, when people are encouraged to categorize items sequentially, they sort by "family resemblance," grouping by overall similarity. The present studies extended this research,…

Combining Learning and Assessment in Assessment-Based Gaming Environments: A Case Study from a New York City School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zapata-Rivera, Diego; VanWinkle, Waverely; Doyle, Bryan; Buteux, Alyssa; Bauer, Malcolm

2009-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to propose and demonstrate an evidence-based scenario design framework for assessment-based computer games. Design/methodology/approach: The evidence-based scenario design framework is presented and demonstrated by using BELLA, a new assessment-based gaming environment aimed at supporting student learning of…

Emergent Conditional Relations in a Go/No-Go Procedure: Figure-Ground and Stimulus-Position Compound Relations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Debert, Paula; Huziwara, Edson M.; Faggiani, Robson Brino; de Mathis, Maria Eugenia Simoes; McIlvane, William J.

2009-01-01

Past research has demonstrated emergent conditional relations using a go/no-go procedure with pairs of figures displayed side-by-side on a computer screen. The present study sought to extend applications of this procedure. In Experiment 1, we evaluated whether emergent conditional relations could be demonstrated when two-component stimuli were…

OPTIMIZED REAL-TIME CONTROL OF COMBINED SEWERAGE SYSTEMS: TWO CASE STUDIES

EPA Science Inventory

The paper presents results of two case studies of Real-Time Control (RTC) alternatives evaluations that were conducted on portions of sewerage systems near Paris, France and in Quebec City, Canada, respectively. The studies were performed at real-scale demonstration sites. RTC ...

Trends and predicted trends in presentations of older people to Australian emergency departments: effects of demand growth, population aging and climate change.

PubMed

Burkett, Ellen; Martin-Khan, Melinda G; Scott, Justin; Samanta, Mayukh; Gray, Leonard C

2017-07-01

Objectives The aim of the present study was to describe trends in and age and gender distributions of presentations of older people to Australian emergency departments (EDs) from July 2006 to June 2011, and to develop ED utilisation projections to 2050. Methods A retrospective analysis of data collected in the National Non-admitted Patient Emergency Department Care Database was undertaken to assess trends in ED presentations. Three standard Australian Bureau of Statistics population growth models, with and without adjustment for current trends in ED presentation growth and effects of climate change, were examined with projections of ED presentations across three age groups (0-64, 65-84 and ≥85 years) to 2050. Results From 2006-07 to 2010-11, ED presentations increased by 12.63%, whereas the Australian population over this time increased by only 7.26%. Rates of presentation per head of population were greatest among those aged ≥85 years. Projections of ED presentations to 2050 revealed that overall ED presentations are forecast to increase markedly, with the rate of increase being most marked for older people. Conclusion Growth in Australian ED presentations from 2006-07 to 2010-11 was greater than that expected from population growth alone. The predicted changes in demand for ED care will only be able to be optimally managed if Australian health policy, ED funding instruments and ED models of care are adjusted to take into account the specific care and resource needs of older people. What is known about the topic? Rapid population aging is anticipated over coming decades. International studies and specific local-level Australian studies have demonstrated significant growth in ED presentations. There have been no prior national-level Australian studies of ED presentation trends by age group. What does this paper add? The present study examined national ED presentation trends from July 2006 to June 2011, with specific emphasis on trends in presentation by age group. ED presentation growth was found to exceed population growth in all age groups. The rate of ED presentations per head of population was highest among those aged ≥85 years. ED utilisation projections to 2050, using standard Australian Bureau of Statistics population modelling, with and without adjustment for current ED growth, were developed. The projections demonstrated linear growth in ED presentation for those aged 0-84 years, with growth in ED presentations of the ≥85 year age group demonstrating marked acceleration after 2030. What are the implications for practitioners? Growth in ED presentations exceeding population growth suggests that current models of acute health care delivery require review to ensure that optimal care is delivered in the most fiscally efficient manner. Trends in presentation of older people emphasise the imperative for ED workforce planning and education in care of this complex patient cohort, and the requirement to review funding models to incentivise investment in ED avoidance and substitutive care models targeting older people.

Effect of simulation on knowledge of advanced cardiac life support, knowledge retention, and confidence of nursing students in Jordan.

PubMed

Tawalbeh, Loai I; Tubaishat, Ahmad

2014-01-01

This study examined the effect of simulation on nursing students' knowledge of advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), knowledge retention, and confidence in applying ACLS skills. An experimental, randomized controlled (pretest-posttest) design was used. The experimental group (n = 40) attended an ACLS simulation scenario, a 4-hour PowerPoint presentation, and demonstration on a static manikin, whereas the control group (n = 42) attended the PowerPoint presentation and a demonstration only. A paired t test indicated that posttest mean knowledge of ACLS and confidence was higher in both groups. The experimental group showed higher knowledge of ACLS and higher confidence in applying ACLS, compared with the control group. Traditional training involving PowerPoint presentation and demonstration on a static manikin is an effective teaching strategy; however, simulation is significantly more effective than traditional training in helping to improve nursing students' knowledge acquisition, knowledge retention, and confidence about ACLS. Copyright 2014, SLACK Incorporated.

Making Waves.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeClark, Tom

2000-01-01

Presents an activity on waves that addresses the state standards and benchmarks of Michigan. Demonstrates waves and studies wave's medium, motion, and frequency. The activity is designed to address different learning styles. (YDS)

Novel diindolylmethane derivatives based NLC formulations to improve the oral bioavailability and anticancer effects in triple negative breast cancer

PubMed Central

Godugu, Chandraiah; Doddapaneni, Ravi; Safe, Stephen H.; Singh, Mandip

2017-01-01

The present study demonstrates the promising anticancer effects of novel C-substituted diindolylmethane (DIM) derivatives DIM-10 and DIM-14 in aggressive TNBC models. In vitro studies demonstrated that these compounds possess strong anticancer effects. Caco-2 permeability studies resulted in poor permeability and poor oral bioavailability was demonstrated by pharmacokinetic studies. Nano structured lipid carrier (NLC) formulations were prepared to increase the clinical acceptance of these compounds. Significant increase in oral bioavailability was observed with NLC formulations. Compared to DIM-10, DIM-10 NLC formulation showed increase in Cmax and AUC values by 4.73 and 11.19-folds, respectively. Similar pattern of increase was observed with DIM-14 NLC formulations. In dogs DIM-10 NLC formulations showed an increase of 2.65 and 2.94-fold in Cmax and AUC, respectively. The anticancer studies in MDA-MB-231 orthotopic TNBC models demonstrated significant reduction in tumor volumes in DIM-10 and DIM-14 NLC treated animals. Our studies suggest that NLC formulation of both DIM-10 and 14 is effective in TNBC models. PMID:27586082

Establishment and Maintenance of Socially Learned Conditioned Reinforcement in Young Children: Elimination of the Role of Adults and View of Peers' Faces

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zrinzo, Michelle; Greer, R. Douglas

2013-01-01

Prior research has demonstrated the establishment of reinforcers for learning and maintenance with young children as a function of social learning where a peer and an adult experimenter were present. The presence of an adult experimenter was eliminated in the present study to test if the effect produced in the prior studies would occur with only…

Conceptualization and Assessment of Disengagement in Romantic Relationships

PubMed Central

Barry, Robin A.; Lawrence, Erika; Langer, Amie

2008-01-01

Research examining relationship distress and dissolution highlights the importance of romantic disengagement. However, prior conceptualizations and measures of romantic disengagement have tended to combine disengagement with related but distinct constructs hindering the study of romantic disengagement. In the present study we conducted exploratory factor analyses to demonstrate that disengagement is a relatively distinct construct and to clarify the conceptualization of romantic disengagement. More importantly, we developed a novel measure– the Romantic Disengagement Scale (RDS). The RDS demonstrated adequate fit across samples of dating individuals, married couples and women in physically aggressive relationships. The RDS also demonstrated strong divergent and incremental validity. Implications for enhancing conceptual models, research methodology, and clinical interventions are discussed. PMID:19727315

[Effects of lycopene on the skeletal system].

PubMed

Sołtysiak, Patrycja; Folwarczna, Joanna

2015-02-21

Antioxidant substances of plant origin, such as lycopene, may favorably affect the skeletal system. Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment, responsible for characteristic red color of tomatoes. It is believed that lycopene may play a role in the prevention of various diseases; despite theoretical premises and results of experimental studies, the effectiveness of lycopene has not yet been clearly demonstrated in studies carried out in humans. The aim of the study was to present the current state of knowledge on the effects of lycopene on the osseous tissue in in vitro and in vivo experimental models and on the skeletal system in humans. Results of the studies indicate that lycopene may inhibit bone resorption. Favorable effects of high doses of lycopene on the rat skeletal system in experimental conditions, including the model of osteoporosis induced by estrogen deficiency, have been demonstrated. The few epidemiological and clinical studies, although not fully conclusive, suggest a possible beneficial effect of lycopene present in the diet on the skeletal system.

Logic gates based all-optical binary half adder using triple core photonic crystal fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uthayakumar, T.; Vasantha Jayakantha Raja, R.

2018-06-01

This study presents the implementation of an all-optical binary logic half adder by employing a triple core photonic crystal fiber (TPCF). The noteworthy feature of the present investigation is that an identical set of TPCF schemes, which demonstrated all-optical logic functions in our previous report, has revealed the ability to demonstrate the successful half adder operation. The control signal (CS) power defining the extinction ratios of the output ports for the considered symmetric planar and triangular TPCFs is evaluated through a numerical algorithm. Through suitable CS power and input combinations, the logic outputs are generated from extinction ratios to demonstrate the half adder operation. The results obtained display the significant influence of the input conditions on the delivery of half adder operation for different TPCF schemes considered. Furthermore, chloroform filled TPCF structures demonstrated the efficient low power half adder operation with a significant figure of merit, compared to that of the silica counterpart.

Time domain topology optimization of 3D nanophotonic devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elesin, Y.; Lazarov, B. S.; Jensen, J. S.; Sigmund, O.

2014-02-01

We present an efficient parallel topology optimization framework for design of large scale 3D nanophotonic devices. The code shows excellent scalability and is demonstrated for optimization of broadband frequency splitter, waveguide intersection, photonic crystal-based waveguide and nanowire-based waveguide. The obtained results are compared to simplified 2D studies and we demonstrate that 3D topology optimization may lead to significant performance improvements.

Infant Imitation from Television Using Novel Touch Screen Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zack, Elizabeth; Barr, Rachel; Gerhardstein, Peter; Dickerson, Kelly; Meltzoff, Andrew N.

2009-01-01

Infants learn less from a televised demonstration than from a live demonstration, the "video deficit effect." The present study employs a novel approach, using touch screen technology to examine 15-month olds' transfer of learning. Infants were randomly assigned either to within-dimension (2D/2D or 3D/3D) or cross-dimension (3D/2D or 2D/3D)…

Laboratory Measurements of the Sound Generated by Breaking Waves

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

these techniques have not yet proven effective for studying the dynamics of breaking. The primary motivation for the research 3 presented in this...experiments described in this thesis were motivated by the fact that these preliminary experiments described above demonstrated that the simple I...1991. The research was motivated by the fact that preliminary measurements by Melville, Loewen, Felizardo, Jessup and Buckingham (1988) demonstrated

The tumour biology of synchronous and metachronous colorectal liver metastases: a systematic review.

PubMed

Slesser, A A P; Georgiou, P; Brown, G; Mudan, S; Goldin, R; Tekkis, P

2013-04-01

Forty to fifty percent of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients develop colorectal liver metastases (CLM) that are either synchronous or metachronous in presentation. Clarifying whether there is a biological difference between the two groups of liver metastases or their primaries could have important clinical implications. A systematic review was performed using the following resources: MEDLINE from PubMed (1950 to present), Embase, Cochrane and the Web of Knowledge. Thirty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. The review demonstrated that the majority of studies found differences in molecular marker expression between colorectal liver metastases and their respective primaries in both the synchronous and metachronous groups. Studies investigating genetic aberrations demonstrated that the majority of changes in the primary tumour were 'maintained' in the colorectal liver metastases. A limited number of studies compared the primary tumours of the synchronous and metachronous groups and generally demonstrated no differences in marker expression. Although there were conflicting results, the colorectal liver metastases in the synchronous and metachronous groups demonstrated some differences in keeping with a more aggressive tumour subtype in the synchronous group. This review suggests that biological differences may exist between the liver metastases of the synchronous and metachronous groups. Whether there are biological differences between the primaries of the synchronous and metachronous groups remains undetermined due to the limited number of studies available. Future research is required to determine whether differences exist between the two groups and should include comparisons of the primary tumours.

Chemical Demonstrations: The Chem Demo Book. A Guide To Fun, Safe & Exciting Chemical Demonstrations. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wray, Thomas K.

Chemical demonstrations can and do enhance an otherwise potentially dull subjects--the properties of hazardous materials. This book contains the recipes for presenting several chemical demonstrations. Demonstrations are designed to be relatively easy to perform and present minimal hazards if done properly. The book contains an introduction, safety…

Is the Face-Perception System Human-Specific at Birth?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Di Giorgio, Elisa; Leo, Irene; Pascalis, Olivier; Simion, Francesca

2012-01-01

The present study investigates the human-specificity of the orienting system that allows neonates to look preferentially at faces. Three experiments were carried out to determine whether the face-perception system that is present at birth is broad enough to include both human and nonhuman primate faces. The results demonstrate that the newborns…

How Should Intelligent Tutoring Systems Sequence Multiple Graphical Representations of Fractions? A Multi-Methods Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rau, M. A.; Aleven, V.; Rummel, N.; Pardos, Z.

2014-01-01

Providing learners with multiple representations of learning content has been shown to enhance learning outcomes. When multiple representations are presented across consecutive problems, we have to decide in what sequence to present them. Prior research has demonstrated that interleaving "tasks types" (as opposed to blocking them) can…

Systemic Modelling for Relating Labour Market to Vocational Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Papakitsos, Evangelos C.

2016-01-01

The present study introduces a systemic model that demonstrates a description of the relationship between the labour-market and vocational education from the perspective of systemic theory. Based on the application of the relevant methodology, the two open social systems are identified and analyzed. Their key-features are presented and the points…

A Specific Deficit in Visuospatial Simultaneous Working Memory in Down Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lanfranchi, S.; Carretti, B.; Spano, G.; Cornoldi, C.

2009-01-01

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that individuals with Down syndrome (DS) present both central and verbal working memory deficits compared with controls matched for mental age, whereas evidence on visuospatial working memory (VSWM) has remained ambiguous. The present paper uses a battery of VSWM tasks to test the hypothesis that…

A Course in Simulation and Demonstration of Humanoid Robot Motion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Hsin-Yu; Wang, Wen-June; Wang, Rong-Jyue

2011-01-01

An introductory course for humanoid robot motion realization for undergraduate and graduate students is presented in this study. The basic operations of AX-12 motors and the mechanics combination of a 16 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) humanoid robot are presented first. The main concepts of multilink systems, zero moment point (ZMP), and feedback…

Design of FastQuery: How to Generalize Indexing and Querying System for Scientific Data

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

Wu, Jerry; Wu, Kesheng

2011-04-18

Modern scientific datasets present numerous data management and analysis challenges. State-of-the-art index and query technologies such as FastBit are critical for facilitating interactive exploration of large datasets. These technologies rely on adding auxiliary information to existing datasets to accelerate query processing. To use these indices, we need to match the relational data model used by the indexing systems with the array data model used by most scientific data, and to provide an efficient input and output layer for reading and writing the indices. In this work, we present a flexible design that can be easily applied to most scientific datamore » formats. We demonstrate this flexibility by applying it to two of the most commonly used scientific data formats, HDF5 and NetCDF. We present two case studies using simulation data from the particle accelerator and climate simulation communities. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the new design, we also present a detailed performance study using both synthetic and real scientific workloads.« less

Aircraft Radiation Shield Experiments--Preflight Laboratory Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singleterry, Robert C., Jr.; Shinn, Judy L.; Wilson, John W.; Maiden, Donald L.; Thibeault, Sheila A.; Badavi, Francis F.; Conroy, Thomas; Braby, Leslie

1999-01-01

In the past, measurements onboard a research Boeing 57F (RB57-F) aircraft have demonstrated that the neutron environment within the aircraft structure is greater than that in the local external environment. Recent studies onboard Boeing 737 commercial flights have demonstrated cabin variations in radiation exposure up to 30 percent. These prior results were the basis of the present study to quantify the potential effects of aircraft construction materials on the internal exposures of the crew and passengers. The present study constitutes preflight measurements using an unmoderated Cf-252 fission neutron source to quantify the effects of three current and potential aircraft materials (aluminum, titanium, and graphite-epoxy composite) on the fast neutron flux. Conclusions about the effectiveness of the three selected materials for radiation shielding must wait until testing in the atmosphere is complete; however, it is clear that for shielding low-energy neutrons, the composite material is an improved shielding material over aluminum or titanium.

Experimental realization of dynamo action: present status and prospects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giesecke, André; Stefani, Frank; Gundrum, Thomas; Gerbeth, Gunter; Nore, Caroline; Léorat, Jacques

2013-07-01

In the last decades, the experimental study of dynamo action has made great progress. However, after the dynamo experiments in Karlsruhe and Riga, the von-Kármán-Sodium (VKS) dynamo is only the third facility that has been able to demonstrate fluid flow driven self-generation of magnetic fields in a laboratory experiment. Further progress in the experimental examination of dynamo action is expected from the planned precession driven dynamo experiment that will be designed in the framework of the liquid sodium facility DRESDYN (DREsden Sodium facility for DYNamo and thermohydraulic studies). In this paper, we briefly present numerical models of the VKS dynamo that demonstrate the close relation between the axisymmetric field observed in that experiment and the soft iron material used for the flow driving impellers. We further show recent results of preparatory water experiments and design studies related to the precession dynamo and delineate the scientific prospects for the final set-up.

Learning community health nursing concepts from clinical experience.

PubMed

Lasater, Kathie; Luce, Linda; Volpin, Miriam; Terwilliger, Allison; Wild, Jackson

2007-01-01

Clinical faculty often struggle to design competency demonstrations that promote quality learning experiences. A nursing program in Oregon combined mental health and community health nursing practica and required well-planned, integrated competency demonstrations. This requirement became the impetus for students to promote the health of clients and learn clinical concepts that are difficult to experience in a typical term. Faculty coached students to make a significant contribution that would last beyond their clinical practica. A case study in competency demonstration design is described, and implications for curriculum development are presented.

Glow Sticks: Spectra and Color Mixing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birriel, Jennifer; Birriel, Ignacio

2014-10-01

Glow sticks are a popular Halloween staple familiar to most of our students. The production of light via a chemical reaction is called "chemiluminescence," and glow sticks are often used as demonstrations and experiments in the chemistry classroom to study reaction rates as a function of temperature.1-3 A black light can be used to illuminate glow sticks that have not been cracked or those that are "dead" in order to demonstrate fluorescence in liquid chemicals.4 In this article, we present the use of glow sticks as an inexpensive demonstration of spectra and color addition.

Optimized Real-Time Control of Combined Sewerage Systems: Two Case Studies (Proceedings Paper)

EPA Science Inventory

The paper presents results of two case studies of Real-Time Control (RTC) alternatives evaluations that were conducted on portions of sewerage systems near Paris, France and in Quebec City, Canada, respectively. The studies were performed at real-scale demonstration sites. RTC al...

Special Education Faculty Needs Assessment Study Implications

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, D.D.; Tyler, N.; Montrosse, B.E.; Young, C.; Robb, S.M.

2011-01-01

This paper presents the highlights of the Special Education Faculty Needs Assessment Study (SEFNA). Actions taken after the release of The 2001 Faculty Shortage Study demonstrate that supply-and-demand imbalances can be improved. The projected shortage of special education faculty will directly and negatively affect students with disabilities and…

Conscious and Unconscious Teacher/Administrator Behavior and Conflict: Three Related Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Herbert L.; Biernat, Nancy A.

The role of personality make-up of those involved in problem solving, conflict resolution, classroom management, and school discipline is discussed. Three studies are presented which demonstrated personal characteristics which may appear to invite, or provide opportunity for, antisocial behavior. In the first study, psychological profiles were…

A model to explain human voice production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilas Bôas, C. S. N.; Gobara, S. T.

2018-05-01

This article presents a device constructed with low-cost material to demonstrate and explain voice production. It also provides a contextualized, interdisciplinary approach to introduce the study of sound waves.

Towards New Interfaces for Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stein, Murphy Martin

2014-01-01

Developing technology to help people teach and learn is an important topic in Human Computer Interaction (HCI). In this thesis we present three studies on this topic. In the first study, we demonstrate new games for learning mathematics and discuss the evidence for key design decisions from user studies. In the second study, we develop a real-time…

Free-radical sensing by using naphthalimide based mesoporous silica (MCM-41) nanoparticles: A combined fluorescence and cellular imaging study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jha, Gaurav; Roy, Subhasis; Sahu, Prabhat Kumar; Banerjee, Somnath; Anoop, N.; Rahaman, Abdur; Sarkar, Moloy

2018-01-01

Keeping in mind the advantages of material-based systems over simple molecule-based systems, we have designed and developed three inorganic-organic hybrid systems by anchoring 1,8-naphthalimide derivatives to mesoporous silica nanoparticles for detection of free radicals. Prior to photophysical study, systems are characterized by spectroscopic, microscopic and thermo-gravimetric techniques. Steady state and time-resolved fluorescence studies demonstrate that the hydrazine based system is senstive towards detection of various free radicals. Cellular imaging study reveals cell permeability and toxicity study demonstrates the non-toxic nature of the material. These studies have suggested that present system has the potential to be used in various biological applications.

Ultrafine ambient particulate matter enhances cardiac ischemia and reperfusion injury

EPA Science Inventory

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated a consistent link between exposure to ambient particulate air pollutant (PM) and the incidence of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The present study was designed to evaluate the cardiac effects of ambient PM. Mice were exposed to 1...

Permeable pavement demonstration site at Edison Environmental Center (Presentation)

EPA Science Inventory

There are few studies of full-scale, outdoor, replicated, working pervious pavement systems. More studies of pervious pavement operating in its intended use (parking lot, roadway, etc.) during a range of climatic events, daily usage conditions, and maintenance regimes are necessa...

Publication Rates of Studies Presented at the International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Congress.

PubMed

Dobson, Hannah; Wall, Steven

2016-11-01

The proportion of presentations achieving publication in a peer-review journal has been suggested to demonstrate the quality of research presented at a conference. No data is available examining the publication rate of research presented at Craniofacial Surgery meetings. The aim of the study was to examine the publication rate of abstracts presented at the International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Biennial Congresses from 2003 to 2011. A search was made of the PubMed database for publication of podium presentations of International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Congresses between 2003 and 2011. Thirty-five percent of podium presentations were published in a peer-reviewed journal. Thirty-one percent of presentations were published within 4 years, and the rate of publication decreased 2 years following presentation.

Evaluating Perceived Probability of Threat-Relevant Outcomes and Temporal Orientation in Flying Phobia.

PubMed

Mavromoustakos, Elena; Clark, Gavin I; Rock, Adam J

2016-01-01

Probability bias regarding threat-relevant outcomes has been demonstrated across anxiety disorders but has not been investigated in flying phobia. Individual temporal orientation (time perspective) may be hypothesised to influence estimates of negative outcomes occurring. The present study investigated whether probability bias could be demonstrated in flying phobia and whether probability estimates of negative flying events was predicted by time perspective. Sixty flying phobic and fifty-five non-flying-phobic adults were recruited to complete an online questionnaire. Participants completed the Flight Anxiety Scale, Probability Scale (measuring perceived probability of flying-negative events, general-negative and general positive events) and the Past-Negative, Future and Present-Hedonistic subscales of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (variables argued to predict mental travel forward and backward in time). The flying phobic group estimated the probability of flying negative and general negative events occurring as significantly higher than non-flying phobics. Past-Negative scores (positively) and Present-Hedonistic scores (negatively) predicted probability estimates of flying negative events. The Future Orientation subscale did not significantly predict probability estimates. This study is the first to demonstrate probability bias for threat-relevant outcomes in flying phobia. Results suggest that time perspective may influence perceived probability of threat-relevant outcomes but the nature of this relationship remains to be determined.

Evaluating Perceived Probability of Threat-Relevant Outcomes and Temporal Orientation in Flying Phobia

PubMed Central

Mavromoustakos, Elena; Clark, Gavin I.; Rock, Adam J.

2016-01-01

Probability bias regarding threat-relevant outcomes has been demonstrated across anxiety disorders but has not been investigated in flying phobia. Individual temporal orientation (time perspective) may be hypothesised to influence estimates of negative outcomes occurring. The present study investigated whether probability bias could be demonstrated in flying phobia and whether probability estimates of negative flying events was predicted by time perspective. Sixty flying phobic and fifty-five non-flying-phobic adults were recruited to complete an online questionnaire. Participants completed the Flight Anxiety Scale, Probability Scale (measuring perceived probability of flying-negative events, general-negative and general positive events) and the Past-Negative, Future and Present-Hedonistic subscales of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (variables argued to predict mental travel forward and backward in time). The flying phobic group estimated the probability of flying negative and general negative events occurring as significantly higher than non-flying phobics. Past-Negative scores (positively) and Present-Hedonistic scores (negatively) predicted probability estimates of flying negative events. The Future Orientation subscale did not significantly predict probability estimates. This study is the first to demonstrate probability bias for threat-relevant outcomes in flying phobia. Results suggest that time perspective may influence perceived probability of threat-relevant outcomes but the nature of this relationship remains to be determined. PMID:27557054

A qualitative analysis of student-written law and ethics cases: A snapshot of PY2 student experience.

PubMed

Karwaki, Tanya E; Hazlet, Thomas K

2017-05-01

This study was designed to better understand pharmacy students' experiences and recognition of legal and ethical tensions existing in pharmacy practice as demonstrated in student-written law and ethics cases. A qualitative analysis of 132 student-written cases representing the team efforts of 1053 students over a 12-year time period was conducted. Student-written cases were coded and analyzed thematically. Our results demonstrate the types of ethical and legal issues our students have experienced in pharmacy practice during the first five quarters of their professional education. Our data highlight three themes: 1) ethical dilemmas presented when the law is misapplied; 2) ethical dilemmas presented when an institutional policy or law was viewed as insufficient; and 3) ethical dilemmas presented as provider distress. The third theme was further subdivided into five subthemes. The themes that emerged from this study represent some of the ethical dilemmas that second professional year students have encountered and how these dilemmas may intersect with legal boundaries. Educators can use cases demonstrating these themes to reinforce law and ethics education in the curriculum, thus helping prepare students for pharmacy practice. This article recommends how and when to use case examples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Using a socioecological framework to understand the career choices of single- and double-degree nursing students and double-degree graduates.

PubMed

Hickey, Noelene; Harrison, Linda; Sumsion, Jennifer

2012-01-01

Untested changes in nursing education in Australia, such as the introduction of double degrees in nursing, necessitate a new research approach to study nursing career pathways. A review of the literature on past and present career choice theories demonstrates these are inadequate to gain an understanding of contemporary nursing students' career choices. With the present worldwide shortage of nurses, an understanding of career choice becomes a critical component of recruitment and retention strategies. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an ecological system approach based on Bronfenbrenner's theory of human development can be used to understand and examine the influences affecting nursing students' and graduates' career development and career choices. Bronfenbrenner's socioecological model was adapted to propose a new Nursing Career Development Framework as a way of conceptualizing the career development of nursing students undertaking traditional bachelor of nursing and nontraditional double-degree nursing programs. This Framework is then applied to a study of undergraduate nurses' career decision making, using a sequential explanatory mixed method study. The paper demonstrates the relevance of this approach for addressing challenges associated with nursing recruitment, education, and career choice.

Using a Socioecological Framework to Understand the Career Choices of Single- and Double-Degree Nursing Students and Double-Degree Graduates

PubMed Central

Hickey, Noelene; Harrison, Linda; Sumsion, Jennifer

2012-01-01

Untested changes in nursing education in Australia, such as the introduction of double degrees in nursing, necessitate a new research approach to study nursing career pathways. A review of the literature on past and present career choice theories demonstrates these are inadequate to gain an understanding of contemporary nursing students' career choices. With the present worldwide shortage of nurses, an understanding of career choice becomes a critical component of recruitment and retention strategies. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an ecological system approach based on Bronfenbrenner's theory of human development can be used to understand and examine the influences affecting nursing students' and graduates' career development and career choices. Bronfenbrenner's socioecological model was adapted to propose a new Nursing Career Development Framework as a way of conceptualizing the career development of nursing students undertaking traditional bachelor of nursing and nontraditional double-degree nursing programs. This Framework is then applied to a study of undergraduate nurses' career decision making, using a sequential explanatory mixed method study. The paper demonstrates the relevance of this approach for addressing challenges associated with nursing recruitment, education, and career choice. PMID:22852094

Middle School Science Notes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

School Science Review, 1982

1982-01-01

Presents procedures, demonstrations, activities, and teaching suggestions on topics appropriate for middle school science including a simple electrolysis cell, conversion factors, energy, solubilities of salts, condensers, and a worksheet for studying coppice woodlands. (DC)

Oxytocin and Migraine Headache.

PubMed

Tzabazis, Alexander; Kori, Shashi; Mechanic, Jordan; Miller, James; Pascual, Conrado; Manering, Neil; Carson, Dean; Klukinov, Michael; Spierings, Egilius; Jacobs, Daniel; Cuellar, Jason; Frey, William H; Hanson, Leah; Angst, Martin; Yeomans, David C

2017-05-01

This article reviews material presented at the 2016 Scottsdale Headache Symposium. This presentation provided scientific results and rationale for the use of intranasal oxytocin for the treatment of migraine headache. Results from preclinical experiments are reviewed, including in vitro experiments demonstrating that trigeminal ganglia neurons possess oxytocin receptors and are inhibited by oxytocin. Furthermore, most of these same neurons contain CGRP, the release of which is inhibited by oxytocin. Results are also presented which demonstrate that nasal oxytocin inhibits responses of trigeminal nucleus caudalis neurons to noxious stimulation using either noxious facial shock or nitroglycerin infusion. These studies led to testing the analgesic effect of intranasal oxytocin in episodic migraineurs-studies which did not meet their primary endpoint of pain relief at 2 h, but which were highly informative and led to additional rat studies wherein inflammation was found to dramatically upregulate the number of oxytocin receptors available on trigeminal neurons. This importance of inflammation was supported by a series of in vivo rat behavioral studies, which demonstrated a clear craniofacial analgesic effect when a pre-existing inflammatory injury was present. The significance of inflammation was further solidified by a small single-dose clinical study, which showed analgesic efficacy that was substantially stronger in chronic migraine patients that had not taken an anti-inflammatory drug within 24 h of oxytocin dosing. A follow-on open label study examining effects of one month of intranasal oxytocin dosing did show a reduction in pain, but a more impressive decrease in the frequency of headaches in both chronic and high frequency episodic migraineurs. This study led to a multicountry double blind, placebo controlled study studying whether, over 2 months of dosing, "as needed" dosing of intranasal oxytocin by chronic and high frequency migraineurs would reduce the frequency of their headaches compared to a 1-month baseline period. This study failed to meet its primary endpoint, due to an extraordinarily high placebo rate in the country of most of the patients (Chile), but was also highly informative, showing strong results in other countries and strong post hoc indications of efficacy. The results provide a strong argument for further development of intranasal oxytocin for migraine prophylaxis. © 2017 American Headache Society.

Bandgap oscillation in quasiperiodic (BN)xCy nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freitas, A.; Bezerra, C. G.; Azevedo, S.; Machado, L. D.; Pedreira, D. O.

2016-12-01

In the present contribution, we apply first-principles calculations to study the effects of quasiperiodic disorder on the physical properties of BN and C nanotubes. We take BN nanotubes (BNNTs) and C nanotubes (CNTs) as building blocks and construct quasiperiodic BNxCy nanotubes according to the Fibonacci sequence. We studied armchair and zigzag nanotubes of varying diameters. Our results demonstrate that the energy gap oscillates as a function of the n-generation index of the Fibonacci sequence. Moreover, we show that the choice of the BNNTs and CNTs may lead to a quasiperiodic BNxCy nanotube presenting an adjustable energy gap. We obtained a variety of quasiperiodic nanotubes with energy gaps ranging from 0.29 eV to 1.06 eV, which may be of interest for specific technological applications. Finally, it is also demonstrated that the specific heat of the quasiperiodic zigzag and armchair nanotubes presents an oscillatory behavior in the low temperature regime, and that this behavior depends on the curvature of the nanotube.

Goodpasture Antigen-binding Protein/Ceramide Transporter Binds to Human Serum Amyloid P-Component and Is Present in Brain Amyloid Plaques*

PubMed Central

Mencarelli, Chiara; Bode, Gerard H.; Losen, Mario; Kulharia, Mahesh; Molenaar, Peter C.; Veerhuis, Robert; Steinbusch, Harry W. M.; De Baets, Marc H.; Nicolaes, Gerry A. F.; Martinez-Martinez, Pilar

2012-01-01

Serum amyloid P component (SAP) is a non-fibrillar glycoprotein belonging to the pentraxin family of the innate immune system. SAP is present in plasma, basement membranes, and amyloid deposits. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that the Goodpasture antigen-binding protein (GPBP) binds to human SAP. GPBP is a nonconventional Ser/Thr kinase for basement membrane type IV collagen. Also GPBP is found in plasma and in the extracellular matrix. In the present study, we demonstrate that GPBP specifically binds SAP in its physiological conformations, pentamers and decamers. The START domain in GPBP is important for this interaction. SAP and GPBP form complexes in blood and partly colocalize in amyloid plaques from Alzheimer disease patients. These data suggest the existence of complexes of SAP and GPBP under physiological and pathological conditions. These complexes are important for understanding basement membrane, blood physiology, and plaque formation in Alzheimer disease. PMID:22396542

Age-Related Concerns of Male Veteran Callers to a Suicide Crisis Line

PubMed Central

King, Deborah A.; O’Riley, Alisa A.; Thompson, Caitlin; Conwell, Yeates; He, Hua; Kemp, Janet

2015-01-01

In July 2007, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) partnered with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) to create the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) in order to meet the unique needs of Veterans in distress. The current study utilized a mixed methods design to examine characteristics of male callers to the VCL. Results from qualitative analyses demonstrated that the majority of callers between April 1 and August 31, 2008 contacted the VCL with concerns related to mental health issues, suicide ideation, and substance abuse issues. Quantitative analyses demonstrated age differences associated with concerns presented by callers such that middle-aged and older callers were more likely to present with loneliness and younger callers were more likely to present with mental health concerns. The results of this study will help to inform future research designed to optimize the effectiveness of the VCL for suicide prevention in Veterans. PMID:24810270

A Comparative Literature Review of the Studies on Drama in English Language Teaching in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ustuk, Özgehan; Inan, Dilek

2017-01-01

This study presents a comparative literature review of the research studies related to the effects of drama in teaching English as a foreign language. First, the study explains drama in education with regard to foreign language education. In a narrative review design, it demonstrates international studies in four categories under which the…

Overview of the 1986 free-piston Stirling SP-100 activities at the NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Slaby, J. G.

1986-01-01

An overview of the NASA Lewis Research Center SP-100 free-piston Stirling engine activities is presented. These activities include a free-piston Stirling space-power technology feasibility demonstration project as part of the SP-100 program being conducted in support of the Department of Defennse (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE), and NASA. The space-power Stirling advanced technology effort, under SP-100, addresses the status of the 25 kWe Space Power Demonstrator Engine (SPDE) including test results. Future space-power projections are presented along with a description of a study that will investigate the feasibility of scaling a single-cylinder free-piston Stirling space-power module to the 150 kW power range. Design parameters and conceptual design features will be presented for a 25 kWe, single-cylinder free-piston Stirling space-power converter. A description of a hydrodynamic gas bearing concept is presented whereby the displacer of a 1 kWe free-piston Stirling engine is modified to demonstrate the bearing concept. And finally the goals of a conceptual design for a 25 kWe Solar Advanced Stirling Conversion System capable of delivering electric power to an electric utility grid are discussed.

Overview of the 1986 free-piston Stirling SP-100 activities at the NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Slaby, J. G.

1986-01-01

An overview of the NASA Lewis Research Center SP-100 free-piston Stirling engine activities is presented. These activities include a free-piston Stirling space-power technology feasibility demonstration project as part of the SP-100 program being conducted in support of the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE), and NASA. The space-power Stirling advanced technology effort, under SP-100, addresses the status of the 25 kWe Space Power Demonstrator Engine (SPDE) including test results. Future space-power projections are presented along with a description of a study that will investigate the feasibility of scaling a single-cylinder free-piston Stirling space-power module to the 150 kW power range. Design parameters and conceptual design features will be presented for a 25 kWe, single-cylinder free-piston Stirling space-power converter. A description of a hydrodynamic gas bearing concept is presented whereby the displacer of a 1 kWe free-piston Stirling engine is modified to demonstrate the bearing concept. And finally the goals of a conceptual design for a 25 kWe Solar Advanced Stirling Conversion System capable of delivering electric power to an electric utility grid are discussed.

Quercetin protects rat cortical neurons against traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Du, Guoliang; Zhao, Zongmao; Chen, Yonghan; Li, Zonghao; Tian, Yaohui; Liu, Zhifeng; Liu, Bin; Song, Jianqiang

2018-06-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that traumatic brain injury (TBI) may cause neurological deficits and neuronal cell apoptosis. Quercetin, one of the most widely distributed flavonoids, possesses anti‑inflammatory, anti‑blood coagulation, anti‑ischemic and anti‑cancer activities, and neuroprotective effects in the context of brain injury. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of quercetin in TBI. A total of 75 rats were randomly arranged into 3 groups as follows: Sham group (Sham); TBI group (TBI); and TBI + quercetin group (Que). Brain edema was evaluated by analysis of brain water content. The neurobehavioral status of the rats was evaluated by Neurological Severity Scoring. Immunohistochemical and western blot analyses were used to measure the expression of certain proteins. The results of the present study demonstrated that post‑TBI administration of quercetin may attenuate brain edema, in addition to improving motor function in rats. Additionally, quercetin caused a marked inhibition of extracellular signal‑regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation and activated Akt serine/threonine protein kinase phosphorylation, which may result in attenuation of neuronal apoptosis. The present study provided novel insights into the mechanism through which quercetin may exert its neuroprotective activity in a rat model of TBI.

Exploring gastric emptying rate in minipigs: Effect of food type and pre-dosing of metoclopramide.

PubMed

Henze, Laura J; Griffin, Brendan T; Christiansen, Martin; Bundgaard, Christoffer; Langguth, Peter; Holm, René

2018-06-15

The present study investigated the gastric emptying rate in Göttingen minipigs pre- and post-prandial and evaluated the effect of metoclopramide on the same parameter, using paracetamol as an absorption marker. The pharmacokinetic evaluation of the obtained plasma concentration data for paracetamol demonstrated that the fastest gastric emptying rate was observed in the animals that were allowed access to normal pig food. There was no significant difference in the stomach emptying rate observed between fasted and fed minipigs, when fed either with a FDA standard breakfast or a nutritional energy drink. Pre-dosing minipigs with metoclopramide (0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg) did not demonstrate any effect on gastric emptying in either the fasted or fed state. The data in the present study demonstrated a relatively prolonged gastric emptying rate in mini-pigs both in the fasted and fed state, hence when conducting pharmacokinetic studies using minipigs, this should be taken into account when planning the plasma sampling time points. Further, as no difference could be observed in gastric emptying rate as a function of food, the data also suggest that the Göttingen mini-pigs seems less suited to predict for food effect studies than other species. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Strategic avionics technology definition studies. Subtask 3-1A: Electrical Actuation (ELA) systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lum, Ben T. F.; Pond, Charles; Dermott, William

1993-01-01

This interim report presents the preliminary results of an electrical actuation (ELA) system study (subtask TA3-1A) to support the NASA strategic avionics technology definition studies. The final report of this ELA study is scheduled for September 30, 1993. The topics are presented in viewgraph form and include the following ELA technology demonstration testing; ELA system baseline; power and energy requirements for shuttle effector systems; power efficiency and losses of ELA effector systems; and power and energy requirements for ELA power sources.

Morrie: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wheeler, Eugenie G.; Knight, Bob

1981-01-01

Presents a case study demonstrating successful behavioral treatment of a depressed older man using group and conjoint therapy. Two major issues in dealing with the aged are addressed: dealing with resistance to therapy, and distinguishing between disability due to organic brain syndrome and that due to depression. (Author/RC)

SUPERFUND TREATABILITY CLEARINGHOUSE: FINAL REPORT: SOIL TREATMENT PILOT STUDY BRIO/DOP SITE

EPA Science Inventory

Bench and pilot-scale studies were conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of using solid-phase biodegradation for destroying portions of organic constituents present in the soil. The predominant constituents at the BRIO DOP site located in Texas were volatile compounds such...

Energy-Efficient Renovation of Educational Buildings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Erhorn-Kluttig, Heike; Morck, Ove

2005-01-01

Case studies demonstrating energy-efficient renovation of educational buildings collected by the International Energy Agency (IEA) provide information on retrofit technologies, energy-saving approaches and ventilation strategies. Some general findings are presented here along with one case study, Egebjerg School in Denmark, which shows how natural…

DEMONSTRATION OF LOW COST, LOW BURDEN EXPOSURE MONITORING STRATEGIES FOR USE IN LONGITUDINAL COHORT STUDIES

EPA Science Inventory

A large longitudinal cohort study designed to evaluate the association between children's exposures to environmental agents and health outcomes presents many challenges for exposure monitoring. Exposure of the child must be measured for multiple chemicals through multiple path...

Evaluation of Demonstrations of National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program Direct Certification of Children Receiving Medicaid Benefits: Access Evaluation Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hulsey, Lara; Gordon, Anne; Leftin, Joshua; Beyler, Nicholas; Schirm, Allen; Smither-Wulsin, Claire; Crumbley, Will

2015-01-01

This report presents findings from the Access Evaluation, a study component that is designed to assess the potential impacts of direct certification-Medicaid (DC-M) on students' access to free school meals by conducting retrospective simulations of DC-M in school year 2011-2012, the year before the demonstration began. For the Access Evaluation,…

Impacts of Social-Emotional Curricula on Three-Year-Olds: Exploratory Findings from the Head Start CARES Demonstration. Research Snapshot. OPRE Report 2014-78

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hsueh, JoAnn; Lowenstein, Amy E.; Morris, Pamela; Mattera, Shira K.; Bangser, Michael

2014-01-01

This report presents exploratory impact findings for 3-year-olds from the Head Start CARES demonstration, a large-scale randomized controlled trial implemented in Head Start centers for one academic year across the country. The study was designed primarily to test the effects of the enhancements on 4-year-olds, but it also provides an opportunity…

Resolution enhancement by extrapolation of coherent diffraction images: a quantitative study on the limits and a numerical study of nonbinary and phase objects.

PubMed

Latychevskaia, T; Chushkin, Y; Fink, H-W

2016-10-01

In coherent diffractive imaging, the resolution of the reconstructed object is limited by the numerical aperture of the experimental setup. We present here a theoretical and numerical study for achieving super-resolution by postextrapolation of coherent diffraction images, such as diffraction patterns or holograms. We demonstrate that a diffraction pattern can unambiguously be extrapolated from only a fraction of the entire pattern and that the ratio of the extrapolated signal to the originally available signal is linearly proportional to the oversampling ratio. Although there could be in principle other methods to achieve extrapolation, we devote our discussion to employing iterative phase retrieval methods and demonstrate their limits. We present two numerical studies; namely, the extrapolation of diffraction patterns of nonbinary and that of phase objects together with a discussion of the optimal extrapolation procedure. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Combined pitavastatin and dacarbazine treatment activates apoptosis and autophagy resulting in synergistic cytotoxicity in melanoma cells.

PubMed

Al-Qatati, Abeer; Aliwaini, Saeb

2017-12-01

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and its incidence is increasing faster than any other type of cancer. Whilst dacarbazine (DTIC) is the standard chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma, it has limited success. Statins, including pitavastatin, have been demonstrated to have a range of anti-cancer effects in a number of human cancer cell lines. The present study therefore explored the anti-cancer activity of combined DTIC and pitavastatin in A375 and WM115 human melanoma cells. Cell survival assays demonstrated that combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment resulted in synergistic cell death. Cell cycle analyses further revealed that this combined treatment resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest, as well as a sub-G1 population, indicative of apoptosis. Activation of apoptosis was confirmed by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining and an increase in the levels of active caspase 3 and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that apoptosis occurs through the intrinsic pathway, evident from the release of cytochrome c. Finally, combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment was demonstrated to also activate autophagy as part of a cell death mechanism. The present study provides novel evidence to suggest that the combined treatment of DTIC and pitavastatin may be effective in the treatment of melanoma.

Combined pitavastatin and dacarbazine treatment activates apoptosis and autophagy resulting in synergistic cytotoxicity in melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Al-Qatati, Abeer; Aliwaini, Saeb

2017-01-01

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and its incidence is increasing faster than any other type of cancer. Whilst dacarbazine (DTIC) is the standard chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma, it has limited success. Statins, including pitavastatin, have been demonstrated to have a range of anti-cancer effects in a number of human cancer cell lines. The present study therefore explored the anti-cancer activity of combined DTIC and pitavastatin in A375 and WM115 human melanoma cells. Cell survival assays demonstrated that combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment resulted in synergistic cell death. Cell cycle analyses further revealed that this combined treatment resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest, as well as a sub-G1 population, indicative of apoptosis. Activation of apoptosis was confirmed by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining and an increase in the levels of active caspase 3 and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that apoptosis occurs through the intrinsic pathway, evident from the release of cytochrome c. Finally, combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment was demonstrated to also activate autophagy as part of a cell death mechanism. The present study provides novel evidence to suggest that the combined treatment of DTIC and pitavastatin may be effective in the treatment of melanoma. PMID:29344241

Annexin A2 is an independent prognostic biomarker for evaluating the malignant progression of laryngeal cancer

PubMed Central

Luo, Shi; Xie, Chubo; Wu, Ping; He, Jian; Tang, Yaoyun; Xu, Jing; Zhao, Suping

2017-01-01

Due to the lack of a definite diagnosis, a frequent recurrence rate and resistance to chemotherapy or radiotherapy, the clinical outcome for patients with advanced laryngeal cancer has not improved over the last decade. Annexin A2 is associated with the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. In the present study, it was demonstrated using differential proteomics analysis that Annexin A2 is highly expressed in laryngeal carcinoma tissues and this was confirmed using immunohistochemistry, which demonstrated that the expression of Annexin A2 in laryngeal carcinoma tissues was significantly higher than in healthy adjacent tissue. In addition, its potential predictive value in the prognosis of patients with laryngeal carcinoma was evaluated. The results demonstrated that Annexin A2 expression was significantly associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis and clinical stage. In addition, higher Annexin A2 expression was associated with a poor prognosis of patients with laryngeal cancer. Thus, the results of the present study indicate that Annexin A2 expression is an independent prognostic biomarker for evaluating the malignant progression of laryngeal cancer. PMID:29285166

Bisphenol A induces corticotropin-releasing hormone expression in the placental cells JEG-3.

PubMed

Huang, Hui; Tan, Wenjuan; Wang, C C; Leung, Lai K

2012-11-01

Bisphenol A is utilized to make polycarbonate plastics and is an environmental pollutant. Recent research has indicated that it is an endocrine disruptor and may interfere with reproduction. Placental corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a peptide hormone which is involved in fetal development. Increased plasma CRH is associated with elevated risk of premature delivery. In the present study, we demonstrated that bisphenol A increased CRH mRNA expression in the placental JEG-3 cells at or above 25μM. Reporter gene assay also demonstrated that bisphenol A could induce CRH gene transactivity. Since cyclic AMP response element (CRE) is a major regulatory element located in CRH promoter, the sequence-specific binding activity was investigated by using electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Our data indicated that bisphenol A increased the CRE binding activity. Western analysis further illustrated that PKA could be the signal triggering the CRE binding and CRH gene transactivation. In summary, the present study demonstrated that bisphenol A could induce CRH expression in placental cells and the underlying signal transduction pathway was also described. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

NMDA/glutamate mechanism of magnesium-induced anxiolytic-like behavior in mice.

PubMed

Poleszak, Ewa; Wlaź, Piotr; Wróbel, Andrzej; Fidecka, Sylwia; Nowak, Gabriel

2008-01-01

The anxiolytic-like activity of magnesium in mice during the elevated plus maze (EPM) has been demonstrated previously. In the present study, we examined the involvement of NMDA/glutamate receptor ligands on the magnesium effect on the EPM. We demonstrated that low, ineffective doses of NMDA antagonists (the competitive NMDA antagonist CGP 37849, 0.3 mg/kg; an antagonist of the glycineB sites, L-701,324, 1 mg/kg; a partial agonist of the glycineB sites, D-cycloserine, 2.5 mg/kg; and the non-competitive NMDA antagonist MK-801, 0.05 mg/kg) administered together with an ineffective dose of magnesium (10 mg/kg) evoked a significant increase in the percentage of time spent in the open arm of the maze (an index of anxiety). Moreover, magnesium-induced anxiolytic-like activity (20 mg/kg) was antagonized by D-serine (100 nmol/mouse), an agonist of glycineB site of the NMDA receptor complex. The present study demonstrates the involvement of the NMDA/glutamate pathway in the magnesium anxiolytic-like activity in the EPM in mice, and that this activity particularly involves the glycineB sites.

JV Task 92 - Alcoa/Retec SFE and SPME

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

Steven Hawthorne

2009-02-15

This report summarizes the work performed by the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) under the U.S. Department of Energy Jointly Sponsored Research Program JV Task 92, which is a continuation of JV9. Successful studies performed in 1999 through the end of 2008 demonstrated the potential for using selective supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and a solid-phase microextraction (SPME) method for measuring sediment pore water polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to mimic the bioavailability of PAHs from manufactured gas plant and aluminum smelter soils and sediments both in freshwater and saltwater locations. The studies that the EERC has performed with the commercialmore » partners have continued to generate increased interest in both the regulatory communities and in the industries that have historically produced or utilized coal tar products. Both ASTM International and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have accepted the pore water method developed at the EERC as standard methods. The studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of our techniques in predicting bioavailability of PAHs from ca. 250 impacted and background field sediments and soils. The field demonstrations from the final years of the project continued to build the foundation data for acceptance of our methods by the regulatory communities. The JV92 studies provide the single largest database in the world that includes measures of PAH bioavailability along with biological end points. These studies clearly demonstrated that present regulatory paradigms based on equilibrium partitioning greatly overpredict bioavailability. These investigations also laid the foundation for present (non-JV) studies being applied to PAHs and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at EPA Superfund sites, investigations into PAH and PCB bioavailability at U.S Department of Defense sites, and the application of the techniques to investigating the bioavailability of chlorinated dioxins and furans from impacted sediments.« less

A Case Study on Teaching the Topic "Experimental Unit" and How It Is Presented in Advanced Placement Statistics Textbooks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perrett, Jamis J.

2012-01-01

This article demonstrates how textbooks differ in their description of the term "experimental unit". Advanced Placement Statistics teachers and students are often limited in their statistical knowledge by the information presented in their classroom textbook. Definitions and descriptions differ among textbooks as well as among different…

Wet feet and sappy fingers: lessons learned from restoration work in the West Virginia highlands

Treesearch

Amy Cimarolli; David W. Saville

2010-01-01

This presentation summarizes our practical experiences from a decade of working with state and federal agencies and private landowners to protect, conserve, and restore the spruce forests and fir swamps of West Virginia. We present case studies that demonstrate the collaborative planning processes, site selection techniques, and restoration activities used in our...

A Multi-Phased Evaluation of the Impact of a Non-School Science Exhibition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortner, Rosanne W.

The impact of "The Great Lake Erie," an outreach program that aimed to improve visitor knowledge and attitudes about Lake Erie, is discussed in this evaluative study. "The Great Lake Erie" was presented as a two-part program consisting of a lecture and demonstration stage presentation and a series of exhibits. The program was…

Brief Training with Co-Speech Gesture Lends a Hand to Word Learning in a Foreign Language

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Spencer D.; McDevitt, Tara; Esch, Megan

2009-01-01

Recent research in psychology and neuroscience has demonstrated that co-speech gestures are semantically integrated with speech during language comprehension and development. The present study explored whether gestures also play a role in language learning in adults. In Experiment 1, we exposed adults to a brief training session presenting novel…

Ultrasonic Vocalizations as a Measure of Affect in Preclinical Models of Drug Abuse: A Review of Current Findings

PubMed Central

Barker, David J.; Simmons, Steven J.; West, Mark O.

2015-01-01

The present review describes ways in which ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) have been used in studies of substance abuse. Accordingly, studies are reviewed which demonstrate roles for affective processing in response to the presentation of drug-related cues, experimenter- and self-administered drug, drug withdrawal, and during tests of relapse/reinstatement. The review focuses on data collected from studies using cocaine and amphetamine, where a large body of evidence has been collected. Data suggest that USVs capture animals’ initial positive reactions to psychostimulant administration and are capable of identifying individual differences in affective responding. Moreover, USVs have been used to demonstrate that positive affect becomes sensitized to psychostimulants over acute exposure before eventually exhibiting signs of tolerance. In the drug-dependent animal, a mixture of USVs suggesting positive and negative affect is observed, illustrating mixed responses to psychostimulants. This mixture is predominantly characterized by an initial bout of positive affect followed by an opponent negative emotional state, mirroring affective responses observed in human addicts. During drug withdrawal, USVs demonstrate the presence of negative affective withdrawal symptoms. Finally, it has been shown that drug-paired cues produce a learned, positive anticipatory response during training, and that presentation of drug-paired cues following abstinence produces both positive affect and reinstatement behavior. Thus, USVs are a useful tool for obtaining an objective measurement of affective states in animal models of substance abuse and can increase the information extracted from drug administration studies. USVs enable detection of subtle differences in a behavioral response that might otherwise be missed using traditional measures. PMID:26411762

The measurement of shock waves following heel strike while running.

PubMed

Dickinson, J A; Cook, S D; Leinhardt, T M

1985-01-01

A non-invasive method for demonstrating the shock wave which propagates through the skeletal system following heel strike is described. This wave was not seen in force plate studies where adequate shock absorption was provided by running shoes. In the present study six subjects ran across a force plate without shoes before and after they were fatigued on a treadmill to demonstrate possible changes in the heel strike transient. Most of the parameters measured were not altered by fatigue, and a relationship between the shock wave and height, but not the weight of the runner was demonstrated. The different mechanisms leading to this phenomenon, and its implication in the areas of osteoarthritic degeneration and running mechanics are discussed.

Development of a Carbon Nanotube-Based Micro-CT and its Applications in Preclinical Research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burk, Laurel May

Due to the dependence of researchers on mouse models for the study of human disease, diagnostic tools available in the clinic must be modified for use on these much smaller subjects. In addition to high spatial resolution, cardiac and lung imaging of mice presents extreme temporal challenges, and physiological gating methods must be developed in order to image these organs without motion blur. Commercially available micro-CT imaging devices are equipped with conventional thermionic x-ray sources and have a limited temporal response and are not ideal for in vivo small animal studies. Recent development of a field-emission x-ray source with carbon nanotube (CNT) cathode in our lab presented the opportunity to create a micro-CT device well-suited for in vivo lung and cardiac imaging of murine models for human disease. The goal of this thesis work was to present such a device, to develop and refine protocols which allow high resolution in vivo imaging of free-breathing mice, and to demonstrate the use of this new imaging tool for the study many different disease models. In Chapter 1, I provide background information about x-rays, CT imaging, and small animal micro-CT. In Chapter 2, CNT-based x-ray sources are explained, and details of a micro-focus x-ray tube specialized for micro-CT imaging are presented. In Chapter 3, the first and second generation CNT micro-CT devices are characterized, and successful respiratory- and cardiac-gated live animal imaging on normal, wild-type mice is achieved. In Chapter 4, respiratory-gated imaging of mouse disease models is demonstrated, limitations to the method are discussed, and a new contactless respiration sensor is presented which addresses many of these limitations. In Chapter 5, cardiac-gated imaging of disease models is demonstrated, including studies of aortic calcification, left ventricular hypertrophy, and myocardial infarction. In Chapter 6, several methods for image and system improvement are explored, and radiation therapy-related micro-CT imaging is present. Finally, in Chapter 7 I discuss future directions for this research and for the CNT micro-CT.

Minocycline attenuates noise-induced hearing loss in rats.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing; Song, Yong-Li; Tian, Ke-Yong; Qiu, Jian-Hua

2017-02-03

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious health concern and prevention of hair cell death or therapeutic intervention at the early stage of NIHL is critical to preserve hearing. Minocycline is a semi-synthetic derivative of tetracycline and has been shown to have otoprotective effects in ototoxic drug-induced hearing impairment, however, whether minocycline can protect against NIHL has not been investigated. The present study demonstrated elevated ABR (auditory brainstem response) thresholds and outer hair cell loss following traumatic noise exposure, which was mitigated by intraperitoneal administration of minocycline (45mg/kg/d) for 5 consecutive days. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that minocycline, a clinically approved drug with a good safety profile, can attenuate NIHL in rats and may potentially be used for treatment of hearing loss in clinic. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Plan for the Development and Demonstration of Optical Communications for Deep Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesh, J. R.; Deutsch, L. J.; Weber, W. J.

1990-01-01

In this article, an overall plan for the development and demonstration of optical communications for deep-space applications is presented. The current state of the technology for optical communications is presented. Then, the development and demonstration plan is presented in two parts: the overall major systems activities, followed by the generic technology developments that will enable them. The plan covers the path from laboratory subsystems demonstrations out to a full-scale flight experiment system for the proposed Mars Communications Relay Orbiter mission.

Detection of nitric oxide in exhaled human breath: exercise and resting determinations.

PubMed

Mantione, Kirk J; Esch, Tobias; Stefano, George B

2007-03-01

Nitric oxide has become a vital indicator of health since many cells produce it constitutively. It is present in exhaled breath and can be measured. A Kiernan NO Breath analyzer (KNB) was used in the present study to determine nitric oxide (NO) levels in exhaled human breath. The KNB was calibrated via measuring NO gas in O2-free N2 obtained from Scott Specialty Gases. Human subjects aged 21 to 45 were instructed to place the KNB over their nose and mouth and to breathe normally before and after mild exercise (n=24) and relaxation (n=20). Mean exhaled NO measurements were compared before and after the protocols using paired t-tests. Regardless of the test, all subjects exhibited NO in their exhaled breath. Exhaled NO decreased significantly after exercise compared to the first reading just prior to the exercise protocol. The mean +/-SE of exhaled NO was 22.8+/-4 before and 13.0+/-2 ppb after exercise (n=24, P=0.003). In the resting experiment, exhaled NO was demonstrated to increase significantly after 10 min compared to the reading taken right after the individuals sat down. The present study demonstrates NO in exhaled human breath can vary, reflecting the activity state of the individual. Additionally, the study demonstrates that NO in exhaled human breath can be measured rapidly, with high sensitivity, and in real time via the KNB, representing an affordable means to achieve this determination.

Flow field and performance characteristics of combustor diffusers: A basic study

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

Hestermann, R.; Kim, S.; Ben Khaled, A.

1995-10-01

Results of a detailed study concerning the influence of geometric as well as fluid mechanic parameters o the performance of a plane model combustor diffuser in cold flow are presented. For a qualitative insight into the complex flow field inside the prediffuser, the sudden expansion region, and the flow field around the flame tube dome, results of a flow visualization study with the hydrogen bubble method as well as with the ink jet method are presented for different opening angles of the prediffuser and for different flame tube distances. Also, quantitative data from detailed measurements with LDV and conventional pressuremore » probes in a geometrically similar air-driven setup are presented. These data clearly demonstrate the effect of boundary layer thickness as well as the influence of different turbulence levels at the entry of the prediffuser on the performance characteristics of combustor diffusers. The possibility of getting an unseparated flow field inside the prediffuser even at large opening angles by appropriately matching the diffuser`s opening angle and the flame tube distance is demonstrated. Also, for flows with an increased turbulence level at the entrance--all other conditions held constant--an increased opening angle can be realized without experiencing flow separation. The comparison of the experimental data with predictions utilizing a finite-volume-code based on a body-fitted coordinate system for diffusers with an included total opening angle less than 18 deg demonstrates the capability of describing the flow field in combustor diffusers with reasonable accuracy.« less

Variable Reporting by Authors Presenting Arthroplasty Research at Multiple Annual Conferences.

PubMed

Choo, Kevin J; Yi, Paul H; Burns, Robert; Mohan, Rohith; Wong, Kevin

2017-01-01

Prior studies have demonstrated discrepancies in financial conflict of interest (COI) disclosure among authors presenting research at multiple spine and sports medicine conferences. The purpose of this study was to quantify the variability of self-reported financial disclosures of individual authors presenting at multiple arthroplasty conferences during the same year. The author disclosure information published for the 2012 annual meetings of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the Hip Society, and the Knee Society were compiled. We tabulated the author disclosures, the number of companies/entities represented, and the types of disclosures reported. The disclosures made by authors presenting at more than one meeting were then compared for discrepancies. Of the 209 authors who presented at both the AAOS and American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons meetings, 79 (37.79%) demonstrated discrepancies in their disclosures with 7 (8.8%) reporting no disclosures to the AAOS. Of the 84 authors who presented at both the AAOS and Hip Society meetings, 1 (1.19%) had discrepancies in their disclosures. Of the 52 authors who presented at both the AAOS and Knee Society meetings, 2 (3.84%) had discrepancies in their disclosures. There is variability in reported financial COIs by authors presenting at multiple arthroplasty conferences within the same year. Further work is warranted to improve transparency of COI disclosures among arthroplasty surgeons presenting research at national meetings. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coverage of Rosenhan's "On Being Sane in Insane Places" in Abnormal Psychology Textbooks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bartels, Jared M.; Peters, Daniel

2017-01-01

The present study examined 12 abnormal psychology textbooks to determine whether Rosenhan's classic study, "Being sane in insane places," was covered, and if so, the nature of that coverage. Only 50% covered the study, with all describing the study as demonstrating the biasing power of psychiatric labels. Two key aspects of the study…

An Investigative Case Study into Early Childhood Educators' Understanding about "Belonging"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tillett, Valerie; Wong, Sandie

2018-01-01

This paper presents findings from a small exploratory study examining eight diversely qualified early childhood (EC) educators' understandings about belonging. Data from interviews were analysed drawing on 10 dimensions and 3 axes of belonging. Findings from this study demonstrate that educators had a strong sense of social, emotional, spatial and…

Socialization, Social Cognitive Factors and the Sibling Relationship.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howe, Nina

Two separate studies suggest that the development of positive sibling relations may be related to siblings' social-cognitive skills (Stewart & Marvin, 1984) and the nature of mothers' conversations with their children (Dunn & Kendrick, 1982). The purpose of the present study was to provide a synthesis of these two studies and to demonstrate the…

An Exploratory Study of Intrinsic & Extrinsic Motivators and Student Performance in an Auditing Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mo, Songtao

2011-01-01

The objective of this study is to investigate the association of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators and student performance. This study performs an exploratory analysis and presents evidence to demonstrate that intrinsic motivators affect the connection between external motivators and student performance. The empirical tests follow the framework…

Localized Quality Assurance and Certification for Cross-Border Education: A Shanghai Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yadong, Li; Yanqiao, Jiang

2009-01-01

The authors present a case study of Sino-foreign cooperation in education to illustrate how developments in the management of licensing and the approval of programs can contribute to better quality assurance. The study demonstrates how the Shanghai municipal education authority has jettisoned traditional dependence on administrative management and…

The Evolution of Superintendents as Instructional Leaders: Past, Present, and Future

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cantu, Blanca S.

2013-01-01

This study examined the critical aspects of oversight that superintendents must employ to improve instruction. It was an analysis of superintendents as instructional leaders. In this study, we looked at four school district superintendents who have demonstrated instructionally effective school districts. The study was based on a three-year period,…

Improving Students' Study Habits by Demonstrating the Mnemonic Benefits of Semantic Processing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bugg, Julie M.; DeLosh, Edward L.; McDaniel, Mark A.

2008-01-01

This article describes an in-class exercise that illustrates the advantage of semantic over nonsemantic study habits. The exercise includes a survey of students' current study strategies, followed by the presentation of an abbreviated version of Craik and Tulving's(1975) classic levels-of-processing experiment. We observed significant benefits of…

Inclusion, Exclusion and the Queering of Spaces in Two Icelandic Upper Secondary Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kjaran, Jón Ingvar; Jóhannesson, Ingólfur Ásgeir

2015-01-01

The concept of space is gaining increased attention in studies of sexuality and gender, not least those focusing on heterosexism and heteronormativity. Such studies have demonstrated that space is sexualised, gendered and actively produced. In this article, we present the findings from an ethnographic study of two Icelandic upper secondary…

Mechanism of free radical generation in platelets and primary hepatocytes: A novel electron spin resonance study.

PubMed

Wang, Chiun-Lang; Yang, Po-Sheng; Tsao, Jeng-Ting; Jayakumar, Thanasekaran; Wang, Meng-Jiy; Sheu, Joen-Rong; Chou, Duen-Suey

2018-01-01

Oxygen free radicals have been implicated in the pathogenesis of toxic liver injury and are thought to be involved in cardiac dysfunction in the cirrhotic heart. Therefore, direct evidence for the electron spin resonance (ESR) detection of how D‑galactosamine (GalN), an established experimental hepatotoxic substance, induced free radicals formation in platelets and primary hepatocytes is presented in the present study. ESR results demonstrated that GalN induced hydroxyl radicals (OH•) in a resting human platelet suspension; however, radicals were not produced in a cell free Fenton reaction system. The GalN‑induced OH• formation was significantly inhibited by the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethasin, though it was not affected by the lipoxygenase (LOX) or cytochrome P450 inhibitors, AA861 and 1‑aminobenzotriazole (ABT), in platelets. In addition, the present study demonstrated that baicalein induced semiquinone free radicals in platelets, which were significantly reduced by the COX inhibitor without affecting the formed OH•. In the mouse primary hepatocytes, the formation of arachidonic acid (AA) induced carbon‑centered radicals that were concentration dependently enhanced by GalN. These radicals were inhibited by AA861, though not affected by indomethasin or ABT. In addition, GalN did not induce platelet aggregation prior to or following collagen pretreatment in human platelets. The results of the present study indicated that GalN and baicalein may induce OH• by COX and LOX in human platelets. GalN also potentiated AA induced carbon‑centered radicals in hepatocytes via cytochrome P450. The present study presented the role of free radicals in the pathophysiological association between platelets and hepatocytes.

Western U.S.-Canada crossborder case study : activity 2 : task D : conduct regional and local trucking case studies

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-08-01

This report presents the test plan for conducting the Technical Capability Analysis for the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) evaluation of the San Diego Integrated Corridor Management (ICM) Initiative Demonstration. The ICM proje...

The Myth of Peer Influence in Adolescent Smoking Initiation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arnett, Jeffrey Jensen

2007-01-01

The widespread belief that peer influence is the primary cause of adolescent smoking initiation is examined and called into question. Correlational and longitudinal studies purporting to demonstrate peer influence are analyzed, and their limitations described. Qualitative interview studies of adolescent smoking initiation are presented as…

A Study of Language Arts Curriculum Effectiveness with Gifted Learners.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

VanTassel-Baska, Joyce; And Others

1996-01-01

This study of language arts curriculum effectiveness presents data supporting utilization of the Integrated Curriculum Model (ICM) with high-ability learners in various grouping contexts. Significant gains were demonstrated in literary analysis, persuasive writing, and linguistic competency for seven elementary classes using the ICM. Implications…

Boosting Orthographic Learning during Independent Reading

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nielsen, Anne-Mette Veber

2016-01-01

Research has shown that phonological decoding is critical for orthographic learning of new words during independent reading. Moreover, correlational studies have demonstrated that the strength of orthographic learning is related to the orthographic knowledge with which readers approach a text. The present training study was conducted to assess…

Modeling Individual Differences in Unfolding Preference Data: A Restricted Latent Class Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bockenholt, Ulf; Bockenholt, Ingo

1990-01-01

A latent-class scaling approach is presented for modeling paired comparison and "pick any/t" data obtained in preference studies. The utility of this approach is demonstrated through analysis of data from studies involving consumer preference and preference for political candidates. (SLD)

Measuring Metasyntactic Ability among Heritage Language Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simard, Daphnee; Fortier, Veronique; Foucambert, Denis

2013-01-01

"Metasyntactic Ability" (MSA) refers to the conscious reflection about syntactic aspects of language and the deliberate control of these aspects (Gombert, 1992). It appears from previous studies that heritage-language learners tend to demonstrate lower MSA than their monolingual counterparts (Lesaux & Siegel, 2003). In the present study, we…

Prevalence of Snoring in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Patel, Minal; Tran, Duyen; Chakrabarti, Ashoke; Vasquez, Audrey; Gilbert, Paul; Davidson, Terence

2008-01-01

Snoring in college students may be the earliest presentation of adult sleep-disordered breathing, yet the literature contains few studies that demonstrate its effects on learning or whether early diagnosis leads to interruption of disease progression or prevention of comorbidities. Objective and Participants: The authors conducted this study in…

Apigenin inhibits glioma cell growth through promoting microRNA-16 and suppression of BCL-2 and nuclear factor-κB/MMP‑9.

PubMed

Chen, Xin-Jun; Wu, Mian-Yun; Li, Deng-Hui; You, Jin

2016-09-01

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of apigenin on glioma cells and to explore its potential mechanism. U87 human glioma cells treated with apigenin were used in the current study. Cell Counting Kit‑8 solution and Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide Apoptosis Detection kit were used to analyze the effect of apigenin on U87 cell viability and apoptotic cell death. Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis was also used to determine microRNA‑16 (miR‑16) and MMP‑9 gene expression levels. Nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB) and B‑cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein expression levels were determined using western blot analysis. An anti‑miR‑16 plasmid was constructed and transfected into U87 cells. The current study demonstrated that apigenin significantly decreased cell viability and induced apoptotic cell death of U87 cells in a dose‑dependent manner. Additionally, it was demonstrated that apigenin significantly increased miR‑16 levels, suppressed BCL2 protein expression and suppressed the NF‑κB/MMP9 signaling pathway in U87 cells. Furthermore, downregulation of miR‑16 using the anti‑miR‑16 plasmid reversed the effect of apigenin on cell viability, BCL2 protein expression and the NF‑κB/MMP‑9 pathway in U87 cells. The results of the present study suggested that apigenin inhibits glioma cell growth through promoting miR‑16 and suppression of BCL2 and NF-κB/MMP-9. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the potential anticancer effects of apigenin on glioma cells.

Demonstration of various rotor instabilities (exhibit of Bently Rotor Dynamics Research Corporation Laborator rigs at symposium on instability in rotaing machinery)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muszynska, A.

1985-01-01

The operation of rotor rigs used to demonstrate various instability phenomena occurring in rotating machines is described. The instability phenomena demonstrated included oil whirl/whip antiswirl, rub, loose rotating parts, water-lubricated bearing instabilities, and cracked shaft. The rotor rigs were also used to show corrective measures for preventing instabilities. Vibrational response data from the rigs were taken with modern, computerized instrumentation. The rotor nonsynchronous perturbation rig demonstrated modal identification techniques for rotor/bearing systems. Computer-aided data acquisition and presentation, using the dynamic stiffness method, makes it possible to identify rotor and bearing parameters for low modes. The shaft mode demonstrator presented the amplified modal shape line of the shaft excited by inertia forces of unbalance (synchronous perturbation). The first three bending modes of the shaft can be demonstrated. The user-friendly software, Orbits, presented a simulation of rotor precessional motion that is characteristic of various instability phenomena. The data presentation demonstration used data measured on a turbine driven compressor train as an example of how computer aided data acquisition and presentation assists in identifying rotating machine malfunctions.

Are independent probes truly independent?

PubMed

Camp, Gino; Pecher, Diane; Schmidt, Henk G; Zeelenberg, René

2009-07-01

The independent cue technique has been developed to test traditional interference theories against inhibition theories of forgetting. In the present study, the authors tested the critical criterion for the independence of independent cues: Studied cues not presented during test (and unrelated to test cues) should not contribute to the retrieval process. Participants first studied a subset of cues (e.g., rope) that were subsequently studied together with a target in a 2nd study phase (e.g., rope-sailing, sunflower-yellow). In the test phase, an extralist category cue (e.g., sports, color) was presented, and participants were instructed to recall an item from the study list that was a member of the category (e.g., sailing, yellow). The experiments showed that previous study of the paired-associate word (e.g., rope) enhanced category cued recall even though this word was not presented at test. This experimental demonstration of covert cuing has important implications for the effectiveness of the independent cue technique.

Conceptual design study Science and Applications Space Platform SASP. Volume 2: Technical report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Runge, F. C.

1980-01-01

The platform payload accommodations, configuration drivers, and power system are described in detail. The platform design was analyzed and is presented. Demonstration tests are described and the results are reported.

OVERVIEW OF USEPA'S ARSENIC TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation provides a summary on the Arsenic Treatment Technology Demonstration Program. The information includes the history and the current status of the demonstration projects on both round 1 and round 2 including some photos of the treatment systems. The presentation m...

Acoustic Parametric Array for Identifying Standoff Targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hinders, M. K.; Rudd, K. E.

2010-02-01

An integrated simulation method for investigating nonlinear sound beams and 3D acoustic scattering from any combination of complicated objects is presented. A standard finite-difference simulation method is used to model pulsed nonlinear sound propagation from a source to a scattering target via the KZK equation. Then, a parallel 3D acoustic simulation method based on the finite integration technique is used to model the acoustic wave interaction with the target. Any combination of objects and material layers can be placed into the 3D simulation space to study the resulting interaction. Several example simulations are presented to demonstrate the simulation method and 3D visualization techniques. The combined simulation method is validated by comparing experimental and simulation data and a demonstration of how this combined simulation method assisted in the development of a nonlinear acoustic concealed weapons detector is also presented.

The Effect of Faraday Waves on Gas Transport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saylor, J. R.; Handler, R. A.

1996-11-01

The increase in the rate of gas transport at the onset of capillary wave formation is a frequently observed phenomenon. However, a causal relationship between the presence of capillary waves and enhanced gas transport has not been experimentally demonstrated. Here we present experimental results of CO2 transport rates across Faraday waves. The piston velocity versus wave slope data explicitly demonstrates an enhancement in gas transport due to these waves. The functional relationship between gas flux and wave slope is also obtained. The Faraday wave system permits investigation of capillary waves in the absence of the obfuscating effects of air turbulence, water turbulence, droplets and bubbles, all of which are present in wind/wave tank studies. Hence, our results are solely due to the effects of capillary wave action. Data for wave frequencies varying from 20Hz to 200Hz are presented.

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

Barnat, E. V.; Fierro, A.

The implementation and demonstration of laser-collision-induced fluorescence (LCIF) generated in atmospheric pressure helium environments is presented in this communication. As collision times are observed to be fast (~10 ns), ultrashort pulse laser excitation (<100 fs) of the 2 3S to 3 3P (388.9 nm) is utilized to initiate the LCIF process. Both neutral-induced and electron-induced components of the LCIF are observed in the helium afterglow plasma as the reduced electric field (E/N) is tuned from <0.1 Td to over 5 Td. Under the discharge conditions presented in this study (640 Torr He), the lower limit of electron density detection ismore » ~10 12 e cm -3. Lastly, the spatial profiles of the 2 3S helium metastable and electrons are presented as functions of E/N to demonstrate the spatial resolving capabilities of the LCIF method.« less

An overview on the characterization and mechanical behavior of nanoporous Gold

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

Hodge, A M; Hayes, J R; Caro, J A

2005-09-13

In this paper we present what we believe are the most pressing issues in understanding the mechanical behavior of nanoporous foams. We have postulated that a gold foam presents the best candidate for a systematic study of nanoporous foams since it can be synthesized with a wide range of ligaments sizes and densities. We have also conducted preliminary tests that demonstrate (a) Au foams have a fracture behavior dictated by the ligament size, and (b) nanoporous Au is a high yield strength material. Thus, we have demonstrated the potential in developing nanoporous foams as a new class of high yieldmore » strength/low density materials.« less

Transformative Learning through Conceptual Metaphors: Simile, Metaphor, and Analogy as Levers for Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoggan, Chad

2014-01-01

This article presents findings from a research study wherein participants demonstrated the use of similes, metaphors, and analogies, termed "conceptual metaphors," in response to disorienting dilemmas instigated by breast cancer. In this qualitative case study of 18 breast cancer survivors, conceptual metaphors were used in three…

Emotional Reasoning and Parent-Based Reasoning in Normal Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morren, Mattijn; Muris, Peter; Kindt, Merel

2004-01-01

A previous study by Muris, Merckelbach, and Van Spauwen [1] demonstrated that children display emotional reasoning irrespective of their anxiety levels. That is, when estimating whether a situation is dangerous, children not only rely on objective danger information but also on their "own" anxiety-response. The present study further examined…

Negative Interpersonal Interactions in Student Training Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferris, Patricia A.; Kline, Theresa J. B.

2009-01-01

Studies demonstrate that negative interpersonal interaction(s) (NII) such as bullying are frequent and harmful to individuals in workplace and higher education student settings. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether the degree of perceived severity of NII varies by the status of the actor. The present study explored the moderating effect of actor…

Facilitating Successful Outdoor O&M Instruction of Multihandicapped Blind Travelers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ehresman, Paul

1994-01-01

An orientation and mobility (O&M) instructor presents a case study of a blind 14 year old with mild cognitive deficits and emotional and behavioral problems. The case study demonstrates the importance of individualizing the O&M curriculum, including changing the usual sequence of instruction. (DB)

Back to Basics: A Bilingual Advantage in Infant Visual Habituation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Singh, Leher; Fu, Charlene S. L.; Rahman, Aishah A.; Hameed, Waseem B.; Sanmugam, Shamini; Agarwal, Pratibha; Jiang, Binyan; Chong, Yap Seng; Meaney, Michael J.; Rifkin-Graboi, Anne

2015-01-01

Comparisons of cognitive processing in monolinguals and bilinguals have revealed a bilingual advantage in inhibitory control. Recent studies have demonstrated advantages associated with exposure to two languages in infancy. However, the domain specificity and scope of the infant bilingual advantage in infancy remains unclear. In the present study,…

Testing Promotes Eyewitness Accuracy with a Warning: Implications for Retrieval Enhanced Suggestibility

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Ayanna K.; Bulevich, John B.; Chan, Jason C. K.

2010-01-01

Numerous studies have demonstrated that repeated retrieval boosts later retention. However, recent research has shown that testing can increase eyewitness susceptibility to misleading post-event information (e.g., Chan, Thomas, & Bulevich, 2009). The present study examines the effects of warning on this counterintuitive finding. In two…

Analyzing Stimulus-Stimulus Pairing Effects on Preferences for Speech Sounds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Petursdottir, Anna Ingeborg; Carp, Charlotte L.; Matthies, Derek W.; Esch, Barbara E.

2011-01-01

Several studies have demonstrated effects of stimulus-stimulus pairing (SSP) on children's vocalizations, but numerous treatment failures have also been reported. The present study attempted to isolate procedural variables related to failures of SSP to condition speech sounds as reinforcers. Three boys diagnosed with autism-spectrum disorders…

Enhancing the Decision-Making of Extraverted College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kreitler, Crystal M.; Dansereau, Donald F.; Barth, Timothy M.; Ito, Sachiyo

2009-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that many college students, specifically those high on extraversion are prone to risky and sometimes unethical decision-making. The present study examined the impact of a decision-making "tool" that incorporated the use of standard ethical perspectives on students' attitudes and intentions. This "fill in the…

Exploring Language Awareness through Students' Engagement in Language Play

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ahn, So-Yeon

2016-01-01

The present study explores Korean students' demonstration of language awareness through their engagement in language play. Grounded in the understanding of the relationship between language play and an "engagement with language" (EWL) perspective, this ethnographic and discourse analytic study investigates how Korean students aged 11-15…

Evidence-Based Language Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pollock, Eric J.

2005-01-01

The purpose of this paper was to examine evidence-based procedures in medicine and to demonstrate that the same protocols can be used in English language instruction. In the evidence-based methodology, studies are divided into those that address specific language problems. Integrated studies are presented as a systematic overview, meta-analysis,…

Watershed modeling applications in south Texas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pedraza, Diana E.; Ockerman, Darwin J.

2012-01-01

This fact sheet presents an overview of six selected watershed modeling studies by the USGS and partners that address a variety of water-resource issues in south Texas. These studies provide examples of modeling applications and demonstrate the usefulness and versatility of watershed models in aiding the understanding of hydrologic systems.

Developing Reading Comprehension among Students with Mild Intellectual Disabilities: An Intervention Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lundberg, Ingvar; Reichenberg, Monica

2013-01-01

The present study demonstrated that students with mild intellectual disabilities are capable of constructing meaning from written text by guided social interaction. Participants were 40 adolescents in special schools divided into two intervention conditions: reciprocal teaching (RT) and inference teaching (IT). In RT the students practiced four…

Integrated Bioprocess Design: A Case Study for Undergraduates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Titchener-Hooker, Nigel; Zhou, Yu-Hong

2000-01-01

Presents a case study for use in the teaching of bioprocess design. Taking the production and isolation of the intracellular protein s. cerevisae, demonstrates how undergraduates can use a range of data to construct and then investigate the range of processes flowsheet options available for a process duty. (Author/SAH)

Research in Distance Education: A System Modeling Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saba, Farhad; Twitchell, David

This demonstration of the use of a computer simulation research method based on the System Dynamics modeling technique for studying distance education reviews research methods in distance education, including the broad categories of conceptual and case studies, and presents a rationale for the application of systems research in this area. The…

From the Teachers Professional Ethics to the Personal Professional Responsibility

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seghedin, Elena

2014-01-01

Following the idea of civic responsibility of all adults for the new generation, we have tried, in different previous studies, to demonstrate that teaching is involving a lot of moral principles and values. Our present article aim is to present a part of our research about the teaching ethics under the idea of being a stable dimension of teaching…

Teaching the Fundamentals of Biological Research with Primary Literature: Learning from the Discovery of the Gastric Proton Pump

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhu, Lixin

2011-01-01

For the purpose of teaching collegians the fundamentals of biological research, literature explaining the discovery of the gastric proton pump was presented in a 50-min lecture. The presentation included detailed information pertaining to the discovery process. This study was chosen because it demonstrates the importance of having a broad range of…

Aeroelastic Optimization Study Based on the X-56A Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Wesley W.; Pak, Chan-Gi

2014-01-01

One way to increase the aircraft fuel efficiency is to reduce structural weight while maintaining adequate structural airworthiness, both statically and aeroelastically. A design process which incorporates the object-oriented multidisciplinary design, analysis, and optimization (MDAO) tool and the aeroelastic effects of high fidelity finite element models to characterize the design space was successfully developed and established. This paper presents two multidisciplinary design optimization studies using an object-oriented MDAO tool developed at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center. The first study demonstrates the use of aeroelastic tailoring concepts to minimize the structural weight while meeting the design requirements including strength, buckling, and flutter. Such an approach exploits the anisotropic capabilities of the fiber composite materials chosen for this analytical exercise with ply stacking sequence. A hybrid and discretization optimization approach improves accuracy and computational efficiency of a global optimization algorithm. The second study presents a flutter mass balancing optimization study for the fabricated flexible wing of the X-56A model since a desired flutter speed band is required for the active flutter suppression demonstration during flight testing. The results of the second study provide guidance to modify the wing design and move the design flutter speeds back into the flight envelope so that the original objective of X-56A flight test can be accomplished successfully. The second case also demonstrates that the object-oriented MDAO tool can handle multiple analytical configurations in a single optimization run.

Forecasting waste compositions: A case study on plastic waste of electronic display housings.

PubMed

Peeters, Jef R; Vanegas, Paul; Kellens, Karel; Wang, Feng; Huisman, Jaco; Dewulf, Wim; Duflou, Joost R

2015-12-01

Because of the rapid succession of technological developments, the architecture and material composition of many products used in daily life have drastically changed over the last decades. As a result, well-adjusted recycling technologies need to be developed and installed to cope with these evolutions. This is essential to guarantee continued access to materials and to reduce the ecological impact of our material consumption. However, limited information is currently available on the material composition of arising waste streams and even less on how these waste streams will evolve. Therefore, this paper presents a methodology to forecast trends in the material composition of waste streams. To demonstrate the applicability and value of the proposed methodology, it is applied to forecast the evolution of plastic housing waste from flat panel display (FPD) TVs, FPD monitors, cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs and CRT monitors. The results of the presented forecasts indicate that a wide variety of plastic types and additives, such as flame retardants, are found in housings of similar products. The presented case study demonstrates that the proposed methodology allows the identification of trends in the evolution of the material composition of waste streams. In addition, it is demonstrated that the recycling sector will need to adapt its processes to deal with the increasing complexity of plastics of end-of-life electronic displays while respecting relevant directives. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Detecting rare, abnormally large grains by x-ray diffraction

DOE PAGES

Boyce, Brad L.; Furnish, Timothy Allen; Padilla, H. A.; ...

2015-07-16

Bimodal grain structures are common in many alloys, arising from a number of different causes including incomplete recrystallization and abnormal grain growth. These bimodal grain structures have important technological implications, such as the well-known Goss texture which is now a cornerstone for electrical steels. Yet our ability to detect bimodal grain distributions is largely confined to brute force cross-sectional metallography. The present study presents a new method for rapid detection of unusually large grains embedded in a sea of much finer grains. Traditional X-ray diffraction-based grain size measurement techniques such as Scherrer, Williamson–Hall, or Warren–Averbach rely on peak breadth andmore » shape to extract information regarding the average crystallite size. However, these line broadening techniques are not well suited to identify a very small fraction of abnormally large grains. The present method utilizes statistically anomalous intensity spikes in the Bragg peak to identify regions where abnormally large grains are contributing to diffraction. This needle-in-a-haystack technique is demonstrated on a nanocrystalline Ni–Fe alloy which has undergone fatigue-induced abnormal grain growth. In this demonstration, the technique readily identifies a few large grains that occupy <0.00001 % of the interrogation volume. Finally, while the technique is demonstrated in the current study on nanocrystalline metal, it would likely apply to any bimodal polycrystal including ultrafine grained and fine microcrystalline materials with sufficiently distinct bimodal grain statistics.« less

Predicting response to physiotherapy treatment for musculoskeletal shoulder pain: a systematic review

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background People suffering from musculoskeletal shoulder pain are frequently referred to physiotherapy. Physiotherapy generally involves a multimodal approach to management that may include; exercise, manual therapy and techniques to reduce pain. At present it is not possible to predict which patients will respond positively to physiotherapy treatment. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify which prognostic factors are associated with the outcome of physiotherapy in the management of musculoskeletal shoulder pain. Methods A comprehensive search was undertaken of Ovid Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and AMED (from inception to January 2013). Prospective studies of participants with shoulder pain receiving physiotherapy which investigated the association between baseline prognostic factors and change in pain and function over time were included. Study selection, data extraction and appraisal of study quality were undertaken by two independent assessors. Quality criteria were selected from previously published guidelines to form a checklist of 24 items. The study protocol was prospectively registered onto the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Results A total of 5023 titles were retrieved and screened for eligibility, 154 articles were assessed as full text and 16 met the inclusion criteria: 11 cohort studies, 3 randomised controlled trials and 2 controlled trials. Results were presented for the 9 studies meeting 13 or more of the 24 quality criteria. Clinical and statistical heterogeneity resulted in qualitative synthesis rather than meta-analysis. Three studies demonstrated that high functional disability at baseline was associated with poor functional outcome (p ≤ 0.05). Four studies demonstrated a significant association (p ≤ 0.05) between longer duration of shoulder pain and poorer outcome. Three studies, demonstrated a significant association (p ≤ 0.05) between increasing age and poorer function; three studies demonstrated no association (p > 0.05). Conclusion Associations between prognostic factors and outcome were often inconsistent between studies. This may be due to clinical heterogeneity or type II errors. Only two baseline prognostic factors demonstrated a consistent association with outcome in two or more studies; duration of shoulder pain and baseline function. Prior to developing a predictive model for the outcome of physiotherapy treatment for shoulder pain, a large adequately powered prospective cohort study is required in which a broad range of prognostic factors are incorporated. PMID:23834747

Open-Minded Cognition.

PubMed

Price, Erika; Ottati, Victor; Wilson, Chase; Kim, Soyeon

2015-11-01

The present research conceptualizes open-minded cognition as a cognitive style that influences how individuals select and process information. An open-minded cognitive style is marked by willingness to consider a variety of intellectual perspectives, values, opinions, or beliefs-even those that contradict the individual's opinion. An individual's level of cognitive openness is expected to vary across domains (such as politics and religion). Four studies develop and validate a novel measure of open-minded cognition, as well as two domain-specific measures of religious and political open-minded cognition. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (controlling for acquiescence bias) are used to develop the scales in Studies 1 to 3. Study 4 demonstrates that these scales possess convergent and discriminant validity. Study 5 demonstrates the scale's unique predictive validity using the outcome of Empathic Concern (Davis, 1980). Study 6 demonstrates the scale's unique predictive validity using the outcomes of warmth toward racial, religious, and sexual minorities. © 2015 by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, Inc.

Dispelling the illusion of invulnerability: the motivations and mechanisms of resistance to persuasion.

PubMed

Sagarin, Brad J; Cialdini, Robert B; Rice, William E; Serna, Sherman B

2002-09-01

Three studies examined the impact of a treatment designed to instill resistance to deceptive persuasive messages. Study 1 demonstrated that after the resistance treatment, ads using illegitimate authority-based appeals became less persuasive, and ads using legitimate appeals became more persuasive. In Study 2, this resistance generalized to novel exemplars, persevered over time, and appeared outside of the laboratory context. In Study 3, a procedure that dispelled participants' illusions of invulnerability to deceptive persuasion maximized resistance to such persuasion. Overall, the present studies demonstrate that attempts to confer resistance to appeals will likely be successful to the extent that they install 2 conceptual features: perceived undue manipulative intent of the source of the appeal and perceived personal vulnerability to such manipulation.

Thrombospondin-1 modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) promote neurite outgrowth and functional recovery in rats with spinal cord injury

PubMed Central

Pu, Yujie; Meng, Ke; Gu, Chuanlong; Wang, Linlin; Zhang, Xiaoming

2017-01-01

Stem cell therapies are currently gaining momentum in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). However, unsatisfied intrinsic neurite growth capacity constitutes significant obstacles for injured spinal cord repair and ultimately results in neurological dysfunction. The present study assessed the efficacy of thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), a neurite outgrowth-promoting molecule, modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on promoting neurite outgrowth in vitro and in vivo of Oxygen–Glucose Deprivation (OGD) treated motor neurons and SCI rat models. The present results demonstrated that the treatment of BMSCs+TSP-1 could promote the neurite length, neuronal survival, and functional recovery after SCI. Additionally, TSP-1 could activate transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) then induced the smad2 phosphorylation, and expedited the expression of GAP-43 to promote neurite outgrowth. The present study for the first time demonstrated that BMSCs+TSP-1 could promote neurite outgrowth and functional recovery after SCI partly through the TGF-β1/p-Samd2 pathway. The study provided a novel encouraging evidence for the potential treatment of BMSCs modification with TSP-1 in patients with SCI. PMID:29221205

Bottom-up driven involuntary auditory evoked field change: constant sound sequencing amplifies but does not sharpen neural activity.

PubMed

Okamoto, Hidehiko; Stracke, Henning; Lagemann, Lothar; Pantev, Christo

2010-01-01

The capability of involuntarily tracking certain sound signals during the simultaneous presence of noise is essential in human daily life. Previous studies have demonstrated that top-down auditory focused attention can enhance excitatory and inhibitory neural activity, resulting in sharpening of frequency tuning of auditory neurons. In the present study, we investigated bottom-up driven involuntary neural processing of sound signals in noisy environments by means of magnetoencephalography. We contrasted two sound signal sequencing conditions: "constant sequencing" versus "random sequencing." Based on a pool of 16 different frequencies, either identical (constant sequencing) or pseudorandomly chosen (random sequencing) test frequencies were presented blockwise together with band-eliminated noises to nonattending subjects. The results demonstrated that the auditory evoked fields elicited in the constant sequencing condition were significantly enhanced compared with the random sequencing condition. However, the enhancement was not significantly different between different band-eliminated noise conditions. Thus the present study confirms that by constant sound signal sequencing under nonattentive listening the neural activity in human auditory cortex can be enhanced, but not sharpened. Our results indicate that bottom-up driven involuntary neural processing may mainly amplify excitatory neural networks, but may not effectively enhance inhibitory neural circuits.

Modulation of induced gamma band activity in the human EEG by attention and visual information processing.

PubMed

Müller, M M; Gruber, T; Keil, A

2000-12-01

Here we present a series of four studies aimed to investigate the link between induced gamma band activity in the human EEG and visual information processing. We demonstrated and validated the modulation of spectral gamma band power by spatial selective visual attention. When subjects attended to a certain stimulus, spectral power was increased as compared to when the same stimulus was ignored. In addition, we showed a shift in spectral gamma band power increase to the contralateral hemisphere when subjects shifted their attention to one visual hemifield. The following study investigated induced gamma band activity and the perception of a Gestalt. Ambiguous rotating figures were used to operationalize the law of good figure (gute Gestalt). We found increased gamma band power at posterior electrode sites when subjects perceived an object. In the last experiment we demonstrated a differential hemispheric gamma band activation when subjects were confronted with emotional pictures. Results of the present experiments in combination with other studies presented in this volume are supportive for the notion that induced gamma band activity in the human EEG is closely related to visual information processing and attentional perceptual mechanisms.

Does Rhetorical Competence Moderate the Effect of Rhetorical Devices on the Comprehension of Expository Texts beyond General Comprehension Skills?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sánchez, Emilio; García, J. Ricardo; Bustos, Andrea

2017-01-01

Many studies have demonstrated the facilitating role of rhetorical devices in text comprehension, but there are also studies where rhetorical devices have not shown such effect. The present study sets out to explore whether readers' knowledge of rhetorical devices (that is, rhetorical competence) moderates their effectiveness beyond general…

The Effect of Tomatis Therapy on Children with Autism: Eleven Case Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerritsen, Jan

2010-01-01

This article presents a reanalysis of a previously reported study on the impact of the Tomatis Method of auditory stimulation on subjects with autism. When analyzed as individual case studies, the data showed that six of the 11 subjects with autism demonstrated significant improvement from 90 hours of Tomatis Therapy. Five subjects did not benefit…

Impact of CCL2 and CCR2 Chemokine / Receptor Deficiencies on Macrophage Recruitment and Continuous Glucose Monitoring in vivo

PubMed Central

Klueh, Ulrike; Czajkowski, Caroline; Ludzinska, Izabela; Qiao, Yi; Frailey, Jackman; Kreutzer, Donald L.

2016-01-01

The accumulation of macrophages (MΦ) at the sensor-tissue interface is thought to be a major player in controlling tissue reactions and sensor performance in vivo. Nevertheless until recently no direct demonstration of the causal relationship between MΦ aggregation and loss of sensor function existed. Using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) murine model we previously demonstrated that genetic deficiencies of MΦ or depletion of MΦ decreased MΦ accumulation at sensor implantation sites, which led to significantly enhanced CGM performance, when compared to normal mice. Additional studies in our laboratories have also demonstrated that MΦ can act as “metabolic sinks” by depleting glucose levels at the implanted sensors in vitro and in vivo. In the present study we extended these observations by demonstrating that MΦ chemokine (CCL2) and receptor (CCR2) knockout mice displayed a decrease in inflammation and MΦ recruitment at sensor implantation sites, when compared to normal mice. This decreased MΦ recruitment significantly enhanced CGM performance when compared to control mice. These studies demonstrated the importance of the CCL2 family of chemokines and related receptors in MΦ recruitment and sensor performance and suggest chemokine targets for enhancing CGM in vivo. PMID:27376197

A case study from a nursing and occupational therapy perspective - Providing care for a patient with a traumatic brachial plexus injury.

PubMed

Wellington, Beverley; McGeehan, Claire

2015-02-01

This paper presents a case study that demonstrates how collaborative working between professionals enhanced the holistic care for a patient following a traumatic brachial plexus injury. The paper will describe the patient's journey of care from initial presentation, diagnosis and assessment, acute care provision, discharge & rehabilitation to ongoing supportive counselling. The care encompasses input from both a nursing and occupational therapy perspective. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Top-down contingent feature-specific orienting with and without awareness of the visual input.

PubMed

Ansorge, Ulrich; Horstmann, Gernot; Scharlau, Ingrid

2011-01-01

In the present article, the role of endogenous feature-specific orienting for conscious and unconscious vision is reviewed. We start with an overview of orienting. We proceed with a review of masking research, and the definition of the criteria of experimental protocols that demonstrate endogenous and exogenous orienting, respectively. Against this background of criteria, we assess studies of unconscious orienting and come to the conclusion that so far studies of unconscious orienting demonstrated endogenous feature-specific orienting. The review closes with a discussion of the role of unconscious orienting in action control.

Demonstration of essentiality of entanglement in a Deutsch-like quantum algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, He-Liang; Goswami, Ashutosh K.; Bao, Wan-Su; Panigrahi, Prasanta K.

2018-06-01

Quantum algorithms can be used to efficiently solve certain classically intractable problems by exploiting quantum parallelism. However, the effectiveness of quantum entanglement in quantum computing remains a question of debate. This study presents a new quantum algorithm that shows entanglement could provide advantages over both classical algorithms and quantum algo- rithms without entanglement. Experiments are implemented to demonstrate the proposed algorithm using superconducting qubits. Results show the viability of the algorithm and suggest that entanglement is essential in obtaining quantum speedup for certain problems in quantum computing. The study provides reliable and clear guidance for developing useful quantum algorithms.

A Student's Guide to Giant Viruses Infecting Small Eukaryotes: From Acanthamoeba to Zooxanthellae.

PubMed

Wilhelm, Steven W; Bird, Jordan T; Bonifer, Kyle S; Calfee, Benjamin C; Chen, Tian; Coy, Samantha R; Gainer, P Jackson; Gann, Eric R; Heatherly, Huston T; Lee, Jasper; Liang, Xiaolong; Liu, Jiang; Armes, April C; Moniruzzaman, Mohammad; Rice, J Hunter; Stough, Joshua M A; Tams, Robert N; Williams, Evan P; LeCleir, Gary R

2017-03-17

The discovery of infectious particles that challenge conventional thoughts concerning "what is a virus" has led to the evolution a new field of study in the past decade. Here, we review knowledge and information concerning "giant viruses", with a focus not only on some of the best studied systems, but also provide an effort to illuminate systems yet to be better resolved. We conclude by demonstrating that there is an abundance of new host-virus systems that fall into this "giant" category, demonstrating that this field of inquiry presents great opportunities for future research.

An integrative approach to apprehend desistance.

PubMed

F-Dufour, Isabelle; Brassard, Renée; Martel, Joane

2015-05-01

The process underlying desistance is still a strong subject of debate. This article seeks to introduce several core concepts of Archer's morphogenic approach to study how people desist from crime. At first, it discusses the primary existing theories of desistance. Then, this article demonstrates the usefulness of this approach by presenting empirical evidence drawn from semistructured interviews collected with 29 men who desisted from crime in an eastern province of Canada. The study demonstrates how this alternative approach allows for the consolidation of existing knowledge on desistance. Then implication of these findings for both theory and practice are discussed. © The Author(s) 2013.

Study Pollution Impacts on Upper-Tropospheric Clouds with Aura, CloudSat, and CALIPSO Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, Dong

2007-01-01

This viewgraph presentation reviews the impact of pollution on clouds in the Upper Troposphere. Using the data from the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS), CloudSat, CALIPSO the presentation shows signatures of pollution impacts on clouds in the upper troposphere. The presentation demonstrates the complementary sensitivities of MLS , CloudSat and CALIPSO to upper tropospheric clouds. It also calls for careful analysis required to sort out microphysical changes from dynamical changes.

[Do nursing students have entrepreneur profile?].

PubMed

Roncon, Paulo Fernando; Munhoz, Sarah

2009-01-01

Descriptive-exploratory study that aimed at knowing the profile of nursing students regarding entrepreneurship. The General Entrepreneurship Trend Test with 54 questions was applied to 41 students. Results demonstrated that 14% present five entrepreneur tendencies, 12% present four entrepreneur tendencies, and 80% do not present entrepreneur tendencies. The majority of student intent to work as clinical nurses, while none of them intent to work in management activities. It was concluded that students have low grade of the entrepreneurship characteristics.

Long noncoding RNA DANCR promotes colorectal cancer proliferation and metastasis via miR-577 sponging.

PubMed

Wang, Yong; Lu, Zhi; Wang, Ningnin; Feng, Jianzhou; Zhang, Junjie; Luan, Lan; Zhao, Wei; Zeng, Xiandong

2018-05-01

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play key roles in various malignant tumors, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Long non-coding RNA differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (DANCR) is overexpressed in CRC patients, but whether it affects CRC proliferation and metastasis via regulation of heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) remains unclear. In the present study, we found that DANCR was highly expressed and correlated with proliferation and metastasis in CRC. In addition, we demonstrated that DANCR and HSP27 were both targets of microRNA-577 (miR-577) and shared the same binding site. Furthermore, we revealed that DANCR promoted HSP27 expression and its mediation of proliferation/metastasis via miR-577 sponging. Finally, using an in vivo study, we confirmed that overexpression of DANCR promoted CRC tumor growth and liver metastasis. The present study demonstrated the function of DANCR in CRC and might provide a new target in the treatment of CRC.

Diffuse pollution by persistent organic pollutants as measured in plastic pellets sampled from various beaches in Greece.

PubMed

Karapanagioti, H K; Endo, S; Ogata, Y; Takada, H

2011-02-01

Plastic pellets found stranded on beaches are hydrophobic organic materials and thus, they are a favourable medium for persistent organic pollutants to absorb to. In the present study, plastic pellets are used to determine the diffuse pollution of selected Greek beaches. Samples of pellets were taken from these beaches and were analyzed for PCBs, DDTs, HCHs, and PAHs. The observed differences among pellets from various sampling sites are related to the pollution occurring at each site. Plastic pellets collected in Saronikos Gulf beaches demonstrate much higher pollutant loading than the ones collected in a remote island or close to an agricultural area. Based on data collected in this study and the International Pellet Watch program, pollution in Saronikos Gulf, Greece, is comparable to other heavily industrialized places of the world. The present study demonstrates the potential of pellet watch to be utilized as a detailed-scale monitoring tool within a single country. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hydroponics--Studies in Plant Culture With Historical Roots.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lopez, Luz Maria

1981-01-01

Presents methods for demonstrating and applying scientific principles by growing plants through water culture (hydroponics), including a review of the history of hydroponics, re-creating some early experiments, and setting up a modern hydroponic system. (CS)

A Generational Approach to Understanding Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coomes, Michael D.; DeBard, Robert

2004-01-01

This chapter establishes the conceptual framework for understanding the Millennial generation by presenting a theoretical model of generational succession that demonstrates the value of studying how the values of one generation interact with and are influenced by others.

Share the road campaign research study : final report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-07-01

This report presents the Environmental Data Test Plan for the national evaluation of the Los Angeles (LA) Congestion Reduction Demonstration (Metro ExpressLanes) under the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) Congestion Reduction Dem...

ERBE S10 WFOV SF NAT

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-06-13

... warming caused by greenhouse gases. Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds The results of the study demonstrate the present ... spacecraft, as described below. WFOV Instruments: these two fixed detectors continuously view the earth disc (plus a small ring of ...

Lennox - Student Training Equipment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lennox Industries, Inc., Marshalltown, IA.

Presents a series of demonstration units designed by Lennox Industries for the purpose of training students to become familiar with Lennox mechanical equipment. Demonstrators are designed to present technical information in a clear simplified manner thus reducing frustration for the beginning trainee. The following demonstrators are available--(1)…

Diagnosis of cystocele--the correlation between clinical and radiological evaluation.

PubMed

Altman, Daniel; Mellgren, Anders; Kierkegaard, Jonas; Zetterström, Jan; Falconer, Christian; López, Annika

2004-01-01

In patients with genital prolapse involving several compartments simultaneously, radiologic investigation can be used to complement the clinical assessment. Contrast medium in the urinary bladder enables visualization of the bladder base at cystodefecoperitoneography (CDP). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the correlation between clinical examination using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system (POP-Q) and CDP. Thirty-three women underwent clinical assessment and CDP. Statistical analysis using Pearson's correlation coefficient ( r) demonstrated a wide variability between the current definition of cystocele at CDP and POP-Q ( r=0.67). An attempt to provide an alternative definition of cystocele at CDP had a similar outcome ( r=0.63). The present study demonstrates a moderate correlation between clinical and radiologic findings in patients with anterior vaginal wall prolapse. It does not support the use of bladder contrast at radiologic investigation in the routine preoperative assessment of patients with genital prolapse.

Metaphorical mapping between raw-cooked food and strangeness-familiarity in Chinese culture.

PubMed

Deng, Xiaohong; Qu, Yuan; Zheng, Huihui; Lu, Yang; Zhong, Xin; Ward, Anne; Li, Zijun

2017-02-01

Previous research has demonstrated metaphorical mappings between physical coldness-warmth and social distance-closeness. Since the concepts of interpersonal warmth are frequently expressed in terms of food-related words in Chinese, the present study sought to explore whether the concept of raw-cooked food could be unconsciously and automatically mapped onto strangeness-familiarity. After rating the nutritive value of raw or cooked foods, participants were presented with morphing movies in which their acquaintances gradually transformed into strangers or strangers gradually morphed into acquaintances, and were asked to stop the movies when the combined images became predominantly target faces. The results demonstrated that unconscious and automatic metaphorical mappings between raw-cooked food and strangeness-familiarity exist. This study provides a foundation for testing whether Chinese people can think about interpersonal familiarity using mental representations of raw-cooked food and supports cognitive metaphor theory from a crosslinguistic perspective.

Mapping Resting-State Brain Networks in Conscious Animals

PubMed Central

Zhang, Nanyin; Rane, Pallavi; Huang, Wei; Liang, Zhifeng; Kennedy, David; Frazier, Jean A.; King, Jean

2010-01-01

In the present study we mapped brain functional connectivity in the conscious rat at the “resting state” based on intrinsic blood-oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) fluctuations. The conscious condition eliminated potential confounding effects of anesthetic agents on the connectivity between brain regions. Indeed, using correlational analysis we identified multiple cortical and subcortical regions that demonstrated temporally synchronous variation with anatomically well-defined regions that are crucial to cognitive and emotional information processing including the prefrontal cortex (PFC), thalamus and retrosplenial cortex. The functional connectivity maps created were stringently validated by controlling for false positive detection of correlation, the physiologic basis of the signal source, as well as quantitatively evaluating the reproducibility of maps. Taken together, the present study has demonstrated the feasibility of assessing functional connectivity in conscious animals using fMRI and thus provided a convenient and non-invasive tool to systematically investigate the connectional architecture of selected brain networks in multiple animal models. PMID:20382183

CFD Assessment of Aerodynamic Degradation of a Subsonic Transport Due to Airframe Damage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frink, Neal T.; Pirzadeh, Shahyar Z.; Atkins, Harold L.; Viken, Sally A.; Morrison, Joseph H.

2010-01-01

A computational study is presented to assess the utility of two NASA unstructured Navier-Stokes flow solvers for capturing the degradation in static stability and aerodynamic performance of a NASA General Transport Model (GTM) due to airframe damage. The approach is to correlate computational results with a substantial subset of experimental data for the GTM undergoing progressive losses to the wing, vertical tail, and horizontal tail components. The ultimate goal is to advance the probability of inserting computational data into the creation of advanced flight simulation models of damaged subsonic aircraft in order to improve pilot training. Results presented in this paper demonstrate good correlations with slope-derived quantities, such as pitch static margin and static directional stability, and incremental rolling moment due to wing damage. This study further demonstrates that high fidelity Navier-Stokes flow solvers could augment flight simulation models with additional aerodynamic data for various airframe damage scenarios.

Critical look at physics identity: An operationalized framework for examining race and physics identity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hyater-Adams, Simone; Fracchiolla, Claudia; Finkelstein, Noah; Hinko, Kathleen

2018-06-01

Studies on physics identity are appearing more frequently and often responding to increased awareness of the underrepresentation of students of color in physics. In our broader research, we focus our efforts on understanding how racial identity and physics identity are negotiated throughout the experiences of Black physicists. In this paper, we present a Critical Physics Identity framework that can be used to examine racialized physics identity and demonstrate the utility of this framework by analyzing interviews with four physicists. Our framework draws from prior constructs of physics identity and racialized identity and provides operational definitions of six interacting dimensions. In this paper, we present the operationalized constructs, demonstrate how we use these constructs to code narrative data, as well as outline three methods of analysis that may be applied to study systems and structures and their influences on the experiences of Black students.

Does ought imply can?

PubMed Central

Kurthy, Miklos; Lawford-Smith, Holly; Sousa, Paulo

2017-01-01

Most philosophers believe that a person can have an obligation only insofar as she is able to fulfil it, a principle generally referred to as “Ought Implies Can”. Arguably, this principle reflects something basic about the ordinary concept of obligation. However, in a paper published recently in this journal, Wesley Buckwalter and John Turri presented evidence for the conclusion that ordinary people in fact reject that principle. With a series of studies, they claimed to have demonstrated that, in people’s judgements, obligations persist irrespective of whether those who hold them have the ability to fulfil them. We argue in this paper that due to some problems in their design, Buckwalter & Turri’s conclusions may not be warranted. We present the results of a series of studies demonstrating the problems with their design and showing that, with an improved design, people judge that obligation depends on ability after all. PMID:28403195

Phenformin inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis and autophagy in cholangiocarcinoma.

PubMed

Hu, Shuyang; Ouyang, Qing; Cheng, Qingbao; Wang, Jinghan; Feng, Feiling; Qiao, Liang; Gan, Wei; Shi, Yang; Wu, Demin; Jiang, Xiaoqing

2018-04-01

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive malignant tumor and the prognosis of patients with advanced stage disease remains poor. Therefore, the identification of novel treatment agents for CCA is required. In the present study, the biological effects of the diabetes therapeutic agent, phenformin, in CCA cell lines was investigated. Cell Counting Kit‑8 cell viability, cellular clone formation and subcutaneous tumor formation assays were performed, which revealed that phenformin inhibited CCA cell proliferation and growth both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, phenformin induced CCA cell apoptosis and autophagy. Phenformin partly activated the liver kinase B1 (LKB1)/5' AMP‑activated protein kinase signaling pathway to exert its biological effects on CCA cell lines, as demonstrated by knockdown of LKB1, which reversed these effects. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the biological effects of phenformin in CCA and suggested that phenformin may be a potential novel agent for CCA treatment.

Enhanced MRI relaxivity of aquated Gd3+ ions by carboxyphenylated water-dispersed graphene nanoribbons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gizzatov, Ayrat; Keshishian, Vazrik; Guven, Adem; Dimiev, Ayrat M.; Qu, Feifei; Muthupillai, Raja; Decuzzi, Paolo; Bryant, Robert G.; Tour, James M.; Wilson, Lon J.

2014-02-01

The present study demonstrates that highly water-dispersed graphene nanoribbons dispersed by carboxyphenylated substituents and conjugated to aquated Gd3+ ions can serve as a high-performance contrast agent (CA) for applications in T1- and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with relaxivity (r1,2) values outperforming currently-available clinical CAs by up to 16 times for r1 and 21 times for r2.The present study demonstrates that highly water-dispersed graphene nanoribbons dispersed by carboxyphenylated substituents and conjugated to aquated Gd3+ ions can serve as a high-performance contrast agent (CA) for applications in T1- and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with relaxivity (r1,2) values outperforming currently-available clinical CAs by up to 16 times for r1 and 21 times for r2. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06026h

Multiple Behavior Descriptions Affect the Acquisitions of STI and STT.

PubMed

McCarthy, Randy J; Wells, Brett M; Skowronski, John J; Carlston, Donal E

2017-01-01

Four studies pursued the idea that spontaneous trait inferences (STIs) involve the formation of both inferential knowledge and associative knowledge while spontaneous trait transferences (STTs) involve only the formation of associative knowledge. These studies varied the type and amount of behavioral information from which perceivers could extract trait information. Experiments 1a and 1b used a modified savings-in-relearning paradigm and demonstrated that repeated presentations of an individual and a behavior description increased the strength of association between the target and implied trait, and this effect did not depend on whether the repeated presentations involved redundant information or new information. In comparison, Experiments 2a and 2b used a trait ratings dependent variable and demonstrated that the effects of repetition were stronger for STI, but not STT, when the added information differed from information that was previously encountered, but not when it was redundant with the previously encountered information.

Multifocal visual evoked responses to dichoptic stimulation using virtual reality goggles: Multifocal VER to dichoptic stimulation.

PubMed

Arvind, Hemamalini; Klistorner, Alexander; Graham, Stuart L; Grigg, John R

2006-05-01

Multifocal visual evoked potentials (mfVEPs) have demonstrated good diagnostic capabilities in glaucoma and optic neuritis. This study aimed at evaluating the possibility of simultaneously recording mfVEP for both eyes with dichoptic stimulation using virtual reality goggles and also to determine the stimulus characteristics that yield maximum amplitude. ten healthy volunteers were recruited and temporally sparse pattern pulse stimuli were presented dichoptically using virtual reality goggles. Experiment 1 involved recording responses to dichoptically presented checkerboard stimuli and also confirming true topographic representation by switching off specific segments. Experiment 2 involved monocular stimulation and comparison of amplitude with Experiment 1. In Experiment 3, orthogonally oriented gratings were dichoptically presented. Experiment 4 involved dichoptic presentation of checkerboard stimuli at different levels of sparseness (5.0 times/s, 2.5 times/s, 1.66 times/s and 1.25 times/s), where stimulation of corresponding segments of two eyes were separated by 16.7, 66.7,116.7 & 166.7 ms respectively. Experiment 1 demonstrated good traces in all regions and confirmed topographic representation. However, there was suppression of amplitude of responses to dichoptic stimulation by 17.9+/-5.4% compared to monocular stimulation. Experiment 3 demonstrated similar suppression between orthogonal and checkerboard stimuli (p = 0.08). Experiment 4 demonstrated maximum amplitude and least suppression (4.8%) with stimulation at 1.25 times/s with 166.7 ms separation between eyes. It is possible to record mfVEP for both eyes during dichoptic stimulation using virtual reality goggles, which present binocular simultaneous patterns driven by independent sequences. Interocular suppression can be almost eliminated by using a temporally sparse stimulus of 1.25 times/s with a separation of 166.7 ms between stimulation of corresponding segments of the two eyes.

Space Solar Power Exploratory Research and Technology (SERT) Technical Interchange Meeting 2 (SERT TIM 2)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howell, Joe; Sanders, Clark W.

2000-01-01

The University of Alabama in Huntsville's (UAH) Propulsion Research Center hosted the Space Solar Power Exploratory Research & Technology (SERT) Technical Interchange Meeting TIM) 2 in Huntsville, Alabama December 7-10. 1999 with 126 people in attendance. The SERT program includes both competitively procured activities. which are being implemented through a portfolio of focused R&D investments--with the maximum leveraging of existing resources inside and outside NASA. and guided by these system studies. Axel Roth. Director of the Flight Projects Directorate NASA MSFC, welcomed the SERT TIM 2 participants and challenged them to develop the necessary technologies and demonstrations that will lead to Space Solar Power (SSP) International implementation. Joe Howell, NASA MSFC, reiterated the SERT TIM 2 objectives: 1) Refining and modeling systems approaches for the utilization of SSP concepts and technologies, ranging, from the near-term e.g. for space science, exploration and commercial space applications to the far-term (e. g. SSP for terrestrial markets), including systems concepts, technology, infrastructure (i.g., transportation), and economics. 2) Conducting technology research, development and demonstration activities to produce "proof- of-concept" validation of critical SSP elements for both the nearer and farther-term applications. 3) Initiating partnerships Nationality and Internationally that could be expanded, as appropriate, to pursue later SSP technology and applications (e.g., space science. colonization, etc.). Day one began with the NASA Centers presenting their SERT activities summary since SERT TIM 1 and wound up with a presentation by Masahiro Mori, NASDA titled "NASDA In-house Study for SSP". Demonstration for the Near-Term. Day two began with the SERT Systems Studies and Analysis reports resulting from NRA 8-23 followed by presentations of SERT Technology Demonstrations reports resulting from NRA 8-23. Day two closed with John Mankins presentation on "Technology Roadmapping" and the delivery of the charge to the Work Breakout Sessions. Day three began with the eleven Work Breakout Session which was the major function of this TIM 2 and day three ended with reports by the Chairs of the eleven Work Breakdown Sessions. Day four began with the six Integrated Product Team OPT) meetings and ended with closing plenary panel sessions.

Generation of chemical movies: FT-IR spectroscopic imaging of segmented flows.

PubMed

Chan, K L Andrew; Niu, X; deMello, A J; Kazarian, S G

2011-05-01

We have previously demonstrated that FT-IR spectroscopic imaging can be used as a powerful, label-free detection method for studying laminar flows. However, to date, the speed of image acquisition has been too slow for the efficient detection of moving droplets within segmented flow systems. In this paper, we demonstrate the extraction of fast FT-IR images with acquisition times of 50 ms. This approach allows efficient interrogation of segmented flow systems where aqueous droplets move at a speed of 2.5 mm/s. Consecutive FT-IR images separated by 120 ms intervals allow the generation of chemical movies at eight frames per second. The technique has been applied to the study of microfluidic systems containing moving droplets of water in oil and droplets of protein solution in oil. The presented work demonstrates the feasibility of the use of FT-IR imaging to study dynamic systems with subsecond temporal resolution.

Morphological study of the TK cholangiocarcinoma cell line with three-dimensional cell culture.

PubMed

Akiyoshi, Kohei; Kamada, Minori; Akiyama, Nobutake; Suzuki, Masafumi; Watanabe, Michiko; Fujioka, Kouki; Ikeda, Keiichi; Mizuno, Shuichi; Manome, Yoshinobu

2014-04-01

Cholangiocarcinoma is an intractable carcinoma originating from the bile duct epithelium. To gain an understanding of the cell biology of cholangiocarcinoma, in vitro cell culture is valuable. However, well‑characterized cell lines are limited. In the present study, the morphology of the TK cholangiocarcinoma cell line was analyzed by three‑dimensional culture. Dispersed TK cells were injected into a gelatin mesh scaffold and cultivated for 3‑20 days. The morphology of the TK cells was investigated by phase‑contrast microscopy, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TK cells were observed to proliferate three-dimensionally in the scaffold. The cells exhibited a globoid structure and attached to the scaffold. The SEM observation demonstrated typical microvilli and plicae on the surface of the structure. Light microscopy and TEM confirmed intercellular and cell‑to‑scaffold attachment in the three‑dimensional mesh. The culture also exhibited the formation of a duct-like structure covered by structured microvilli. In conclusion, three‑dimensional culture of TK cells demonstrated the morphological characteristics of cholangiocarcinoma in vitro. Production of high levels of carbohydrate antigen (CA)19‑9, CA50 and carcinoembryonic antigen was previously confirmed in the TK cell line. As a characteristic morphology was demonstrated in the present study, the TK cholangiocarcinoma cell line may be useful as an experimental model for further study of cholangiocarcinoma.

A fluid collection system for dermal wounds in clinical investigations

PubMed Central

Klopfer, Michael; Li, G.-P.; Widgerow, Alan; Bachman, Mark

2016-01-01

In this work, we demonstrate the use of a thin, self adherent, and clinically durable patch device that can collect fluid from a wound site for analysis. This device is manufactured from laminated silicone layers using a novel all-silicone double-molding process. In vitro studies for flow and delivery were followed by a clinical demonstration for exudate collection efficiency from a clinically presented partial thickness burn. The demonstrated utility of this device lends itself for use as a research implement used to clinically sample wound exudate for analysis. This device can serve as a platform for future integration of wearable technology into wound monitoring and care. The demonstrated fabrication method can be used for devices requiring thin membrane construction. PMID:27051470

Introduction: Hazard mapping

USGS Publications Warehouse

Baum, Rex L.; Miyagi, Toyohiko; Lee, Saro; Trofymchuk, Oleksandr M

2014-01-01

Twenty papers were accepted into the session on landslide hazard mapping for oral presentation. The papers presented susceptibility and hazard analysis based on approaches ranging from field-based assessments to statistically based models to assessments that combined hydromechanical and probabilistic components. Many of the studies have taken advantage of increasing availability of remotely sensed data and nearly all relied on Geographic Information Systems to organize and analyze spatial data. The studies used a range of methods for assessing performance and validating hazard and susceptibility models. A few of the studies presented in this session also included some element of landslide risk assessment. This collection of papers clearly demonstrates that a wide range of approaches can lead to useful assessments of landslide susceptibility and hazard.

Lysyl oxidase‑like 2 is expressed in kidney tissue and is associated with the progression of tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

PubMed

Choi, Sung-Eun; Jeon, Nara; Choi, Hoon Young; Shin, Jae Il; Jeong, Hyeon Joo; Lim, Beom Jin

2017-09-01

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis is a common end point of chronic kidney diseases, and preventing its progression is key to avoiding renal failure. Transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) and associated molecules promote tubulointerstitial fibrosis; however, effective therapies targeting these molecules have yet to be developed. Lysyl oxidase‑like 2 (LOXL2), which is involved in invasive growth and metastasis of malignant neoplasms, has recently been reported to serve a key role in hepatic and pulmonary fibrosis. However, little is currently known regarding LOXL2 expression in the kidney and its involvement in tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The present study evaluated LOXL2 expression in human and mouse kidney tissues, as well as in cultured renal cells. LOXL2 protein expression was detected in glomerular capillary loops and tubular epithelial cells in human and mouse kidneys. Glomerular LOXL2 was localized to the cytoplasm of podocytes, as determined by double immunofluorescence microscopy using a podocyte marker (synaptopodin). This result was supported by western blot analysis, which demonstrated that LOXL2 protein expression is present in cultured human podocytes and HK‑2 human proximal tubular cells. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression levels of LOXL2 were higher in a mouse model of tubulointerstitial fibrosis compared with in control mice. In addition, immunohistochemistry results demonstrated that LOXL2 is present in the fibrous interstitium and infiltrating mononuclear cells in a mouse model of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The present study demonstrated that LOXL2 is expressed in compartments of renal tissue, where it appears to contribute to the progression of tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

Reversing the similarity effect: The effect of presentation format.

PubMed

Cataldo, Andrea M; Cohen, Andrew L

2018-06-01

A context effect is a change in preference that occurs when alternatives are added to a choice set. Models of preferential choice that account for context effects largely assume a within-dimension comparison process. It has been shown, however, that the format in which a choice set is presented can influence comparison strategies. That is, a by-alternative or by-dimension grouping of the dimension values encourage within-alternative or within-dimension comparisons, respectively. For example, one classic context effect, the compromise effect, is strengthened by a by-dimension presentation format. Extrapolation from this result suggests that a second context effect, the similarity effect, will actually reverse when stimuli are presented in a by-dimension format. In the current study, we presented participants with a series of apartment choice sets designed to elicit the similarity effect, with either a by-alternative or by-dimension presentation format. Participants in the by-alternative condition demonstrated a standard similarity effect; however, participants in the by-dimension condition demonstrated a strong reverse similarity effect. The present data can be accounted for by Multialternative Decision Field Theory (MDFT) and the Multiattribute Linear Ballistic Accumulator (MLBA), but not Elimination by Aspects (EBA). Indeed, when some weak assumptions of within-dimension processes are met, MDFT and the MLBA predict the reverse similarity effect. These modeling results suggest that the similarity effect is governed by either forgetting and inhibition (MDFT), or attention to positive or negative differences (MLBA). These results demonstrate that flexibility in the comparison process needs to be incorporated into theories of preferential choice. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Advanced radiator concepts feasibility demonstration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhee, Hyop S.; Begg, Lester; Wetch, Joseph R.; Juhasz, Albert J.

1991-01-01

An innovative pumped loop concept for 600 K space power system radiators is under development utilizing direct contact heat transfer, which facilitates repeated startup/shutdown of the power system without complex and time-consuming coolant thawing during power startup. The melting/freezing process of Li in a NaK flow was studied experimentally to demonstrate the Li/NaK radiator feasibility during startup (thawing) and shutdown (cold-trapping). Results of the vapor grown carbon fiber/composite thermal conductivity measurements are also presented.

Advanced radiator concepts feasibility demonstration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhee, Hyop S.; Begg, Lester; Wetch, Joseph R.; Juhasz, Albert J.

An innovative pumped loop concept for 600 K space power system radiators is under development utilizing direct contact heat transfer, which facilitates repeated startup/shutdown of the power system without complex and time-consuming coolant thawing during power startup. The melting/freezing process of Li in a NaK flow was studied experimentally to demonstrate the Li/NaK radiator feasibility during startup (thawing) and shutdown (cold-trapping). Results of the vapor grown carbon fiber/composite thermal conductivity measurements are also presented.

Use of Silica-Encapsulated Pseudomonas sp. Strain NCIB 9816-4 in Biodegradation of Novel Hydrocarbon Ring Structures Found in Hydraulic Fracturing Waters

PubMed Central

Aukema, Kelly G.; Kasinkas, Lisa; Aksan, Alptekin

2014-01-01

The most problematic hydrocarbons in hydraulic fracturing (fracking) wastewaters consist of fused, isolated, bridged, and spiro ring systems, and ring systems have been poorly studied with respect to biodegradation, prompting the testing here of six major ring structural subclasses using a well-characterized bacterium and a silica encapsulation system previously shown to enhance biodegradation. The direct biological oxygenation of spiro ring compounds was demonstrated here. These and other hydrocarbon ring compounds have previously been shown to be present in flow-back waters and waters produced from hydraulic fracturing operations. Pseudomonas sp. strain NCIB 9816-4, containing naphthalene dioxygenase, was selected for its broad substrate specificity, and it was demonstrated here to oxidize fundamental ring structures that are common in shale-derived waters but not previously investigated with this or related enzymes. Pseudomonas sp. NCIB 9816-4 was tested here in the presence of a silica encasement, a protocol that has previously been shown to protect bacteria against the extremes of salinity present in fracking wastewaters. These studies demonstrate the degradation of highly hydrophobic compounds by a silica-encapsulated model bacterium, demonstrate what it may not degrade, and contribute to knowledge of the full range of hydrocarbon ring compounds that can be oxidized using Pseudomonas sp. NCIB 9816-4. PMID:24907321

When the bell tolls on Bell's palsy: finding occult malignancy in acute-onset facial paralysis.

PubMed

Quesnel, Alicia M; Lindsay, Robin W; Hadlock, Tessa A

2010-01-01

This study reports 4 cases of occult parotid malignancy presenting with sudden-onset facial paralysis to demonstrate that failure to regain tone 6 months after onset distinguishes these patients from Bell's palsy patients with delayed recovery and to propose a diagnostic algorithm for this subset of patients. A case series of 4 patients with occult parotid malignancies presenting with acute-onset unilateral facial paralysis is reported. Initial imaging on all 4 patients did not demonstrate a parotid mass. Diagnostic delays ranged from 7 to 36 months from time of onset of facial paralysis to time of diagnosis of parotid malignancy. Additional physical examination findings, especially failure to regain tone, as well as properly protocolled radiologic studies reviewed with dedicated head and neck radiologists, were helpful in arriving at the diagnosis. An algorithm to minimize diagnostic delays in this subset of acute facial paralysis patients is presented. Careful attention to facial tone, in addition to movement, is important in the diagnostic evaluation of acute-onset facial paralysis. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An augmented dopamine system function is present prior to puberty in the methylazoxymethanol acetate rodent model of schizophrenia.

PubMed

Chen, Li; Perez, Stephanie M; Lodge, Daniel J

2014-09-01

Schizophrenia is a disease typically associated with an adolescent onset. Although there have been a considerable number of imaging studies investigating the transition to psychosis in prodromal patients, there are relatively few preclinical studies examining potential mechanisms that may contribute to adolescent onset. We have previously demonstrated, in the methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) rodent model of schizophrenia, that an enhanced activity within the ventral hippocampus may underlie the dopamine system hyperfunction, suggested to contribute to positive symptoms in patients. Here we demonstrate that the aberrant regulation of dopamine system function, in MAM-treated rats, is present prior to puberty. Furthermore, we now report that while the afferent regulation of ventral tegmental area dopamine neurons (from the hippocampus and pedunculopontine tegmental area) appears intact in preadolescent rats, the behavioral response to alterations in dopamine system function appears to be attenuated in preadolescent rats. Thus, we posit that the pathological alterations underlying psychosis may be present prior to symptom onset and that the "normal" development of the postsynaptic side of the dopamine system may underlie the transition to psychosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Software for predictive microbiology and risk assessment: a description and comparison of tools presented at the ICPMF8 Software Fair.

PubMed

Tenenhaus-Aziza, Fanny; Ellouze, Mariem

2015-02-01

The 8th International Conference on Predictive Modelling in Food was held in Paris, France in September 2013. One of the major topics of this conference was the transfer of knowledge and tools between academics and stakeholders of the food sector. During the conference, a "Software Fair" was held to provide information and demonstrations of predictive microbiology and risk assessment software. This article presents an overall description of the 16 software tools demonstrated at the session and provides a comparison based on several criteria such as the modeling approach, the different modules available (e.g. databases, predictors, fitting tools, risk assessment tools), the studied environmental factors (temperature, pH, aw, etc.), the type of media (broth or food) and the number and type of the provided micro-organisms (pathogens and spoilers). The present study is a guide to help users select the software tools which are most suitable to their specific needs, before they test and explore the tool(s) in more depth. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Uric acid, an important antioxidant contributing to survival in termites

PubMed Central

Tasaki, Eisuke; Sakurai, Hiroki; Nitao, Masaru; Matsuura, Kenji; Iuchi, Yoshihito

2017-01-01

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated spontaneously in all organisms and cause oxidative damage to biomolecules when present in excess. Accumulated oxidative damage accelerates aging; enhanced antioxidant capacity may be a positive factor for longevity. Recently, numerous studies of aging and longevity have been performed using short-lived animals, however, longevity mechanisms remain unknown. Here we show that a termite Reticulitermes speratus that is thought to be long-lived eusocial insect than other solitary insects uses large quantities of uric acid as an antioxidant against ROS. We demonstrated that the accumulation of uric acid considerably increases the free radical-scavenging activity and resistance against ultraviolet-induced oxidative stress in laboratory-maintained termites. In addition, we found that externally administered uric acid aided termite survival under highly oxidative conditions. The present data demonstrates that in addition to nutritional and metabolic roles, uric acid is an essential antioxidant for survival and contributes significantly to longevity. Uric acid also plays important roles in primates but causes gout when present in excess in humans. Further longevity studies of long-lived organisms may provide important breakthroughs with human health applications. PMID:28609463

Graphic report of the results from propensity score method analyses.

PubMed

Shrier, Ian; Pang, Menglan; Platt, Robert W

2017-08-01

To increase transparency in studies reporting propensity scores by using graphical methods that clearly illustrate (1) the number of participant exclusions that occur as a consequence of the analytic strategy and (2) whether treatment effects are constant or heterogeneous across propensity scores. We applied graphical methods to a real-world pharmacoepidemiologic study that evaluated the effect of initiating statin medication on the 1-year all-cause mortality post-myocardial infarction. We propose graphical methods to show the consequences of trimming and matching on the exclusion of participants from the analysis. We also propose the use of meta-analytical forest plots to show the magnitude of effect heterogeneity. A density plot with vertical lines demonstrated the proportion of subjects excluded because of trimming. A frequency plot with horizontal lines demonstrated the proportion of subjects excluded because of matching. An augmented forest plot illustrates the amount of effect heterogeneity present in the data. Our proposed techniques present additional and useful information that helps readers understand the sample that is analyzed with propensity score methods and whether effect heterogeneity is present. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Plain abdominal radiography in acute abdominal pain; past, present, and future

PubMed Central

Gans, Sarah L; Stoker, Jaap; Boermeester, Marja A

2012-01-01

Several studies have demonstrated that a diagnosis based solely on a patient’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests is not reliable enough, despite the fact that these aspects are essential parts of the workup of a patient presenting with acute abdominal pain. Traditionally, imaging workup starts with abdominal radiography. However, numerous studies have demonstrated low sensitivity and accuracy for plain abdominal radiography in the evaluation of acute abdominal pain as well as various specific diseases such as perforated viscus, bowel obstruction, ingested foreign body, and ureteral stones. Computed tomography, and in particular computed tomography after negative ultrasonography, provides a better workup than plain abdominal radiography alone. The benefits of computed tomography lie in decision-making for management, planning of a surgical strategy, and possibly even avoidance of negative laparotomies. Based on abundant available evidence, major advances in diagnostic imaging, and changes in the management of certain diseases, we can conclude that there is no place for plain abdominal radiography in the workup of adult patients with acute abdominal pain presenting in the emergency department in current practice. PMID:22807640

Experiments and Demonstrations in Smoking Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, Glen G.; Ziady, Merrie

This document contains experiments, demonstrations, and descriptions of computer software that may be useful in smoking education. Strategies are presented so that instructors can select the ones that are appropriate for their target populations. Experiments and demonstrations on the effects of smoking presented in this book are appropriate for…

Emotional facial activation induced by unconsciously perceived dynamic facial expressions.

PubMed

Kaiser, Jakob; Davey, Graham C L; Parkhouse, Thomas; Meeres, Jennifer; Scott, Ryan B

2016-12-01

Do facial expressions of emotion influence us when not consciously perceived? Methods to investigate this question have typically relied on brief presentation of static images. In contrast, real facial expressions are dynamic and unfold over several seconds. Recent studies demonstrate that gaze contingent crowding (GCC) can block awareness of dynamic expressions while still inducing behavioural priming effects. The current experiment tested for the first time whether dynamic facial expressions presented using this method can induce unconscious facial activation. Videos of dynamic happy and angry expressions were presented outside participants' conscious awareness while EMG measurements captured activation of the zygomaticus major (active when smiling) and the corrugator supercilii (active when frowning). Forced-choice classification of expressions confirmed they were not consciously perceived, while EMG revealed significant differential activation of facial muscles consistent with the expressions presented. This successful demonstration opens new avenues for research examining the unconscious emotional influences of facial expressions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Elevated Arc/Arg 3.1 protein expression in the basolateral amygdala following auditory trace-cued fear conditioning.

PubMed

Chau, Lily S; Prakapenka, Alesia; Fleming, Stephen A; Davis, Ashley S; Galvez, Roberto

2013-11-01

The underlying neuronal mechanisms of learning and memory have been heavily explored using associative learning paradigms. Two of the more commonly employed learning paradigms have been contextual and delay fear conditioning. In fear conditioning, a subject learns to associate a neutral stimulus (conditioned stimulus; CS), such as a tone or the context of the room, with a fear provoking stimulus (unconditioned stimulus; US), such as a mild footshock. Utilizing these two paradigms, various analyses have elegantly demonstrated that the amygdala plays a role in both fear-related associative learning paradigms. However, the amygdala's involvement in trace fear conditioning, a forebrain-dependent fear associative learning paradigm that has been suggested to tap into higher cognitive processes, has not been closely investigated. Furthermore, to our knowledge, the specific amygdala nuclei involved with trace fear conditioning has not been examined. The present study used Arc expression as an activity marker to determine the amygdala's involvement in trace fear associative learning and to further explore involvement of specific amygdalar nuclei. Arc is an immediate early gene that has been shown to be associated with neuronal activation and is believed to be necessary for neuronal plasticity. Findings from the present study demonstrated that trace-conditioned mice, compared to backward-conditioned (stimulation-control), delay-conditioned and naïve mice, exhibited elevated amygdalar Arc expression in the basolateral (BLA) but not the central (CeA) or the lateral amygdala (LA). These findings are consistent with previous reports demonstrating that the amygdala plays a critical role in trace conditioning. Furthermore, these findings parallel studies demonstrating hippocampal-BLA activation following contextual fear conditioning, suggesting that trace fear conditioning and contextual fear conditioning may involve similar amygdala nuclei. Together, findings from this study demonstrate similarities in the pathway for trace and contextual fear conditioning, and further suggest possible underlying mechanisms for acquisition and consolidation of these two types of fear-related learning. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Physiological Parameter Response to Variation of Mental Workload.

PubMed

Marinescu, Adrian Cornelius; Sharples, Sarah; Ritchie, Alastair Campbell; Sánchez López, Tomas; McDowell, Michael; Morvan, Hervé P

2018-02-01

To examine the relationship between experienced mental workload and physiological response by noninvasive monitoring of physiological parameters. Previous studies have examined how individual physiological measures respond to changes in mental demand and subjective reports of workload. This study explores the response of multiple physiological parameters and quantifies their added value when estimating the level of demand. The study presented was conducted in laboratory conditions and required participants to perform a visual-motor task that imposed varying levels of demand. The data collected consisted of physiological measurements (heart interbeat intervals, breathing rate, pupil diameter, facial thermography), subjective ratings of workload (Instantaneous Self-Assessment Workload Scale [ISA] and NASA-Task Load Index), and the performance. Facial thermography and pupil diameter were demonstrated to be good candidates for noninvasive workload measurements: For seven out of 10 participants, pupil diameter showed a strong correlation ( R values between .61 and .79 at a significance value of .01) with mean ISA normalized values. Facial thermography measures added on average 47.7% to the amount of variability in task performance explained by a regression model. As with the ISA ratings, the relationship between the physiological measures and performance showed strong interparticipant differences, with some individuals demonstrating a much stronger relationship between workload and performance measures than others. The results presented in this paper demonstrate that physiological and pupil diameter can be used for noninvasive real-time measurement of workload. The methods presented in this article, with current technological capabilities, are better suited for workplaces where the person is seated, offering the possibility of being applied to pilots and air traffic controllers.

Phenomenology of first-episode psychosis in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and unipolar depression: a comparative analysis.

PubMed

Rosen, Cherise; Marvin, Robert; Reilly, James L; Deleon, Ovidio; Harris, Margret S H; Keedy, Sarah K; Solari, Hugo; Weiden, Peter; Sweeney, John A

2012-10-01

This study sought to identify similarities and differences in symptom characteristics at initial presentation of first psychotic episodes in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and unipolar depression. The Structured Interview for DSM-IV (SCID) and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were administered to consecutive admission study-eligible patients (n=101) presenting for treatment during their first acute phase of psychotic illness. Forty-nine percent of patients met diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, 29% for psychotic bipolar disorder and 22% for unipolar depression with psychosis. The PANSS was analyzed using five-factor scoring that included Positive, Negative, Cognitive, Excitement, and Depression factors, and composite cluster scores that assessed Anergia, Thought Disturbance, and Paranoia. Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients demonstrated significantly more Positive symptoms, Thought Disturbance and Paranoia than unipolar depressed patients. Schizophrenia and unipolar depressed patients demonstrated significantly more Negative symptoms and Anergia than bipolar patients. Patients with schizophrenia reported more severe Cognitive Disorganization than patients with either bipolar disorder or uni-polar depression (p<.05). Findings from this study demonstrate an informative pattern of similarities and differences in the phenomenology of psychotic disorders at first illness presentation. Commonalities in symptom profiles reflect considerable symptom overlap among psychotic disorders and, thus, the importance of multidimensional differential diagnosis for these conditions. The differences across disorders in Positive and Negative symptom severity, Thought Disorder, Paranoia, and Anergia, and especially the higher level of Cognitive Disorganization seen in schizophrenia patients, point to clinically informative differences across these disorders that are relevant to clinical diagnostic practice and models of psychopathology.

Technetium-99m galactosyl-neoglycoalbumin (Tc-NGA) liver imaging: Application in liver transplantation

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

Woodle, E.S.; Ward, R.E.; Vera, D.R.

1985-05-01

Tc-NGA is a new liver imaging agent which binds to hepatic binding protein (HBP), a hepatocyte-specific membrane receptor. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the potential role of Tc-NGA imaging in liver transplantation. The molar Tc-NGA dose was standardized according to patient weight (0.7 nmole/kg). After a 30 minute dynamic imaging study (5 mCi, IV), kinetic analysis of time activity data (heart, liver), provided values for receptor concentration, (HBP), and hepatic blood flow, Q. Eleven Tc-NGA imaging studies were performed in transplant candidates and 22 studies were performed in seven transplant recipients. Preservation damage was manifested bymore » diffuse patchiness in tracer distribution which resolved during the following two weeks. Histologically proven, localized hepatic infarcts were demonstrated in three recipients. Lobar infarction was demonstrated in one recipient. Hepatic regeneration was later demonstrated in this patient after hepatic lobectomy. Hepatic blood flow was markedly decreased in the early postoperative period, but improved with time. Increased (HBP) was demonstrated with regeneration. Markedly decreased (HBP) and Q were obtained in several candidates who died awaiting transplantation. These studies indicate that TC-NGA liver imaging provides a valuable new means for: (1) evaluation of preservation damage, (2) early demonstration of hepatic infarction, (3) evaluation of hepatic rejection, and (4) selection of patients for hepatic transplantation.« less

A technology demonstrator for development of ultra-lightweight, large aperture, deployable telescope for space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuccaro Marchi, Alessandro; Gambicorti, Lisa; Simonetti, Francesca; Salinari, Piero; Lisi, Franco; Bursi, Alessandro; Olivier, Massimiliano; Gallieni, Daniele

2017-11-01

This work presents the latest results of new technological concepts for large aperture, lightweight telescopes using thin deployable active mirrors. The study is originally addressed to a spaceborne DIAL (Differential Absorption Lidar) at 935.5 nm for the measurement of water vapour profile in atmosphere, as an output of an ESA contract (whose preliminary results were presented at ICSO 2006). The high versatility of these concepts allows to exploit the presented technology for any project willing to consider large aperture, segmented lightweight telescopes. A possible scientific application is for Ultra High Energy Cosmic Rays detection through the fluorescence traces in atmosphere and diffused Cerenkov signals observation via a Schmidt-like spaceborne LEO telescope with large aperture, wide Field of View (FOV) and low f/#. A technology demonstrator has been manufactured and tested in order to investigate two project critical areas identified during the preliminary design: the performances of the long-stroke actuators used to implement the mirror active control and the mirror survivability to launch. In particular, this breadboard demonstrates at first that the mirror actuators are able to control with the adequate accuracy the surface shape and to recover a deployment error with their long stroke; secondly, the mirror survivability has been demonstrated using an electrostatic locking between mirror and backplane able to withstand without failure a vibration test representative of the launch environment.

Cervical pneumatocyst.

PubMed

Hoover, Jason M; Wenger, Doris E; Eckel, Laurence J; Krauss, William E

2011-09-01

The authors present the case of a 56-year-old right hand-dominant woman who was referred for chronic neck pain and a second opinion regarding a cervical lesion. The patient's pain was localized to the subaxial spine in the midline. She reported a subjective sense of intermittent left arm weakness manifesting as difficulty manipulating small objects with her hands and fingers. She also reported paresthesias and numbness in the left hand. Physical and neurological examinations demonstrated no abnormal findings except for a positive Tinel sign over the left median nerve at the wrist. Electromyography demonstrated bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome with no cervical radiculopathy. Cervical spine imaging demonstrated multilevel degenerative disc disease and a pneumatocyst of the C-5 vertebral body. The alignment of the cervical spine was normal. A review of the patient's cervical imaging studies obtained in 1995, 2007, 2008, and 2010 demonstrated that the pneumatocyst was not present in 1995 but was present in 2007. The lesion had not changed in appearance since 2007. At an outside institution, multilevel fusion of the cervical spine was recommended to treat the pneumatocyst prior to evaluation at the authors' institution. The authors, however, did not think that the pneumatocyst was the cause of the patient's neck pain, and cervical pneumatocysts typically have a benign course. As such, the authors recommended conservative management and repeated MR imaging in 6 months. Splinting was used to treat the patient's carpal tunnel syndrome.

Tracer tomography: design concepts and field experiments using heat as a tracer.

PubMed

Doro, Kennedy O; Cirpka, Olaf A; Leven, Carsten

2015-04-01

Numerical and laboratory studies have provided evidence that combining hydraulic tomography with tomographic tracer tests could improve the estimation of hydraulic conductivity compared with using hydraulic data alone. Field demonstrations, however, have been lacking so far, which we attribute to experimental difficulties. In this study, we present a conceptual design and experimental applications of tracer tomography at the field scale using heat as a tracer. In our experimental design, we improve active heat tracer testing by minimizing possible effects of heat losses, buoyancy, viscosity, and changing boundary conditions. We also utilize a cost-effective approach of measuring temperature changes in situ at high resolution. We apply the presented method to the 8 m thick heterogeneous, sandy gravel, alluvial aquifer at the Lauswiesen Hydrogeological Research Site in Tübingen, Germany. Results of our tomographic heat-tracer experiments are in line with earlier work on characterizing the aquifer at the test site. We demonstrate from the experimental perspective that tracer tomography is applicable and suitable at the field scale using heat as a tracer. The experimental results also demonstrate the potential of heat-tracer tomography as a cost-effective means for characterizing aquifer heterogeneity. © 2014, National Ground Water Association.

[Glomerular filtration and renal volume in type II diabetes (non-insulin-dependent): study in normal and microalbuminuria patients].

PubMed

Signorini, A M; Tanganelli, I; Fondelli, C; Vattimo, A; Ferrari, F; Borgogni, P; Borgogni, L; Gragnoli, G

1991-08-01

In type 2 diabetes elevated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and increased renal volume (RV), often accompanied to normo or microalbuminuria, were demonstrated. This condition is considered a pathogenetic factor for clinical nephropathy. As this topic is little studied in type 2 diabetes, we have investigated 73 type 2 diabetic patients (34 normo and 39 microalbuminuric), looking for a correlation between GFR, RV, hypertension, duration of diabetes and indexes of metabolic control. GFR was measured by a scintigraphy, after infusion of 99Tc-DTPA. Renal volume was determined by ultrasound scanning. Between the groups GFR and RV weren't different; elevated GFR was demonstrated in 3 patients; increased RV in 1 patient. In the hypertensive group GFR was lower than in normotensive group and in controls. Multivariate analysis in stepwise demonstrated that GFR presents a negative correlation to systolic blood pressure as in normo as in microalbuminuric patients. In the normotensive group GFR didn't correlate to the other variables. The present data suggest that in type 2 diabetes there is a little prevalence of glomerular hyperfiltration and increased renal volume and that hypertension plays a role on GFR of hypertensive diabetic patients.

Identifying consumer segments in health services markets: an application of conjoint and cluster analyses to the ambulatory care pharmacy market.

PubMed

Carrol, N V; Gagon, J P

1983-01-01

Because of increasing competition, it is becoming more important that health care providers pursue consumer-based market segmentation strategies. This paper presents a methodology for identifying and describing consumer segments in health service markets, and demonstrates the use of the methodology by presenting a study of consumer segments in the ambulatory care pharmacy market.

A Controlled Single-Case Treatment of Severe Long-Term Selective Mutism in a Child with Mental Retardation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Facon, Bruno; Sahiri, Safia; Riviere, Vinca

2008-01-01

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the efficacy of combining two operant learning procedures--shaping and fading--for treating selective mutism. The participant was a 12-year-old boy with mental retardation presenting a severe long-term selective mutism. The treatment was aimed at increasing the loudness of his vocalizations in an…

Investigation of Blood Flow and the Effect of Vasoactive Substances in Cutaneous Blood Vessels of "Xenopus Laevis"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Škorjanc, Aleš; Belušic, Gregor

2015-01-01

In the present study, a preparation of frog skin was presented, which can be used to demonstrate the basic concepts of blood flow regulation in a very clear and attractive way to high school and university students. In a freshly euthanized "Xenopus," a patch of abdominal skin was exposed from the internal side and viewed with a USB…

The relationship between a low grain intake dietary pattern and impulsive behaviors in middle-aged Japanese people.

PubMed

Toyomaki, Atsuhito; Koga, Minori; Okada, Emiko; Nakai, Yukiei; Miyazaki, Akane; Tamakoshi, Akiko; Kiso, Yoshinobu; Kusumi, Ichiro

2017-01-01

Several studies indicate that dietary habits are associated with mental health. We are interested in identifying not a specific single nutrient/food group but the population preferring specific food combinations that can be related to mental health. Very few studies have examined relationships between dietary patterns and multifaceted mental states using cluster analysis. The purpose of this study was to investigate population-level dietary patterns associated with mental state using cluster analysis. We focused on depressive state, sleep quality, subjective well-being, and impulsive behaviors using rating scales. Two hundred and seventy-nine Japanese middle-aged people participated in the present study. Dietary pattern was estimated using a brief self-administered diet-history questionnaire (the BDHQ). We conducted K-means cluster analysis using thirteen BDHQ food groups: milk, meat, fish, egg, pulses, potatoes, green and yellow vegetables, other vegetables, mushrooms, seaweed, sweets, fruits, and grain. We identified three clusters characterized as "vegetable and fruit dominant," "grain dominant," and "low grain tendency" subgroups. The vegetable and fruit dominant group showed increases in several aspects of subjective well-being demonstrated by the SF-8. Differences in mean subject characteristics across clusters were tested using ANOVA. The low frequency intake of grain group showed higher impulsive behavior, demonstrated by BIS-11 deliberation and sum scores. The present study demonstrated that traditional Japanese dietary patterns, such as eating rice, can help with beneficial changes in mental health.

The relationship between a low grain intake dietary pattern and impulsive behaviors in middle-aged Japanese people

PubMed Central

Toyomaki, Atsuhito; Koga, Minori; Okada, Emiko; Nakai, Yukiei; Miyazaki, Akane; Tamakoshi, Akiko; Kiso, Yoshinobu; Kusumi, Ichiro

2017-01-01

Several studies indicate that dietary habits are associated with mental health. We are interested in identifying not a specific single nutrient/food group but the population preferring specific food combinations that can be related to mental health. Very few studies have examined relationships between dietary patterns and multifaceted mental states using cluster analysis. The purpose of this study was to investigate population-level dietary patterns associated with mental state using cluster analysis. We focused on depressive state, sleep quality, subjective well-being, and impulsive behaviors using rating scales. Two hundred and seventy-nine Japanese middle-aged people participated in the present study. Dietary pattern was estimated using a brief self-administered diet-history questionnaire (the BDHQ). We conducted K-means cluster analysis using thirteen BDHQ food groups: milk, meat, fish, egg, pulses, potatoes, green and yellow vegetables, other vegetables, mushrooms, seaweed, sweets, fruits, and grain. We identified three clusters characterized as “vegetable and fruit dominant,” “grain dominant,” and “low grain tendency” subgroups. The vegetable and fruit dominant group showed increases in several aspects of subjective well-being demonstrated by the SF-8. Differences in mean subject characteristics across clusters were tested using ANOVA. The low frequency intake of grain group showed higher impulsive behavior, demonstrated by BIS-11 deliberation and sum scores. The present study demonstrated that traditional Japanese dietary patterns, such as eating rice, can help with beneficial changes in mental health. PMID:28704469

Tested Demonstrations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, George L., Ed.

1990-01-01

Three demonstrations (a mechanical model of chemical equilibrium, a demonstration of Raoult's Law, and a demonstration of permanganate reduction) are presented. Materials and procedures are detailed. (CW)

Tested Demonstrations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, George L., Ed.

1979-01-01

Presents two demonstrations which are intended for chemistry college students. These demonstrations are: (1) enhancement of concentration quenching by micelles; and (2) the thermite lecture demonstration. (HM)

DESIGN OF EXPOSURE MEASUREMENTS FOR EPIDEMIOLOGIC STUDIES

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation will describe the following items: (1) London daily air pollution and deaths that demonstrate how time series epidemiology can indicate that air pollution caused death; (2) Sophisticated statistical models required to establish this relationship for lower pollut...

Lighting and vegetation for energy-efficient and safe roadway travel.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-04-01

The objective of the present study was to identify and evaluate promising approaches to incorporating : lighting and vegetation along roadways with the purpose of identifying the most promising application that : could be incorporated into a demonstr...

Snapshots of Applications in Mathematics: Thermal Systems and the Solar Oven.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Callas, Dennis, Ed.; Hildreth, David J., Ed.; Bickford, Carl

1998-01-01

Showcases applications of mathematics designed to demonstrate to students how the topics under study are used in the real world or to solve problems. Presents an activity on thermal systems using spreadsheets or graphing calculators. (ASK)

Aggressive driving enforcement : evaluation of two demonstration programs

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-03-24

This report presents the results of a study conducted to assess the effects of two programs that were implemented to reduce the incidence of aggressive driving. The programs were conducted by the Marion County Traffic Safety Partnership (a consortium...

ERBE S10N WFOV SF Edition 2

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-06-09

... warming caused by greenhouse gases. Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds The results of the study demonstrate the present ... spacecraft, as described below. WFOV Instruments: these two fixed detectors continuously view the earth disc (plus a small ring of ...

ERBE S10N WFOV NF Edition 3

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-06-09

... warming caused by greenhouse gases. Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds The results of the study demonstrate the present ... spacecraft, as described below. WFOV Instruments: these two fixed detectors continuously view the earth disc (plus a small ring of ...

ERBE S10N WFOV NF Edition 2

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-06-08

... warming caused by greenhouse gases. Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds The results of the study demonstrate the present ... spacecraft, as described below. WFOV Instruments: these two fixed detectors continuously view the earth disc (plus a small ring of ...

ERBE S10N WFOV SF Edition 3

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-06-09

... warming caused by greenhouse gases. Absorption of Solar Radiation by Clouds The results of the study demonstrate the present ... spacecraft, as described below. WFOV Instruments: these two fixed detectors continuously view the earth disc (plus a small ring of ...

Cross-level inferences of job satisfaction in the prediction of intent to leave.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1991-10-01

An emerging literature has demonstrated that proportionately more dissatisfied employees intend to leave their employing organization while proportionately more satisfied employees intend to remain. The purpose of the present study was to apply crite...

Aggressive driving enforcement : evaluations of two demonstration programs

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-03-01

This report presents the results of a study conducted to assess the effects of two programs that were implemented to reduce the incidence of aggressive driving. The programs were conducted by the Marion County Traffic Safety Partnership (a consortium...

Using Group Performances to Demonstrate Concepts in Large Biology Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wellnitz, Todd

2006-01-01

While a voluminous lecture hall can present obstacles to effective teaching and learning, large classrooms containing more than 100 students also present teaching opportunities. The lecture hall offers an excellent arena for demonstrating concepts that lend themselves to demonstrations and something this author refers to as "group performances."…

Technical assessment of PSSC-supported experiments and demonstrations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

A description of CTS and ATS short-term and long-term satellite demonstration supported through usage of a satellite communication ground station complex is presented. User assessments about the programmatic impact of their demonstrations and experiments were summarized. The technical planning and coordination process involved in satellite utilization is also presented.

Working Memory in Children: A Time-Constrained Functioning Similar to Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Portrat, Sophie; Camos, Valerie; Barrouillet, Pierre

2009-01-01

Within the time-based resource-sharing (TBRS) model, we tested a new conception of the relationships between processing and storage in which the core mechanisms of working memory (WM) are time constrained. However, our previous studies were restricted to adults. The current study aimed at demonstrating that these mechanisms are present and…

Mothers' Depressive Symptoms and Children's Cognitive and Social Agency: Predicting First-Grade Cognitive Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yan, Ni; Dix, Theodore

2016-01-01

Using data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (N = 1,364), the present study supports an agentic perspective; it demonstrates that mothers' depressive symptoms in infancy predict children's poor first-grade cognitive functioning because depressive symptoms…

A Study of Brownian Motion Using Light Scattering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Noel A.; And Others

1970-01-01

Presents an advanced laboratory experiment and lecture demonstration by which the intensity spectrum of light scattered by a suspension of particles in a fluid can be studied. From this spectrum, it is possible to obtain quantitative information about the motion of the particles, including an accurate determination of their diffusion constant.…

Fostering Positive Youth Development through Work-Based Learning: The Cristo Rey Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bempechat, Janine; Kenny, Maureen; Blustein, David L.; Seltzer, Joanne

2014-01-01

This chapter presents findings of a three-year longitudinal study of academic motivation and school engagement among low-income high school students enrolled in a corporate work-study program. Our findings demonstrate ways in which the workplace functioned for students as a conduit of emotional resources, offering instrumental support from caring…

Choosing to Compromise: Women Studying Childcare

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright, Hazel R.

2013-01-01

Reporting on a study of mature women training to work in childcare, this article demonstrates how some women choose to be part-time mothers, workers and students, wanting "the best of both worlds". It presents a theory of integrated lives that contrasts with customary deficit models and shows how a series of reciprocal links bind the…

The Development of Two Types of Inhibitory Control in Monolingual and Bilingual Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin-Rhee, Michelle M.; Bialystok, Ellen

2008-01-01

Previous research has shown that bilingual children excel in tasks requiring inhibitory control to ignore a misleading perceptual cue. The present series of studies extends this finding by identifying the degree and type of inhibitory control for which bilingual children demonstrate this advantage. Study 1 replicated the earlier research by…

High School Teachers' Perceptions regarding Principals' Ethical Leadership in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karakose, Turgut

2007-01-01

This study has been carried out in order to determine to what extent principals demonstrate ethical leadership behaviors, and to present suggestions on the strength of these findings. The study has a descriptive quality in evaluating the teachers' perceptions and uses the Ethical Leadership Scale (ELS) developed by Yilmaz (2006), so as to…

Retrospective Study of Lithium Use for Institutionalized Mentally Retarded Individuals with Behavior Disorders.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Langee, Harvey R.

1990-01-01

Severely and profoundly mentally retarded institutionalized residents (N=74) who received lithium carbonate for behavior disorders were followed in a 10-year retrospective study. Thirty-one subjects demonstrated a sustained major reduction or elimination of behavioral symptoms. Lithium responders were likely to be older and to present symptoms of…

Autism and Schizophrenia in High Functioning Adults: Behavioral Differences and Overlap

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spek, Annelies A.; Wouters, Saskia G. M.

2010-01-01

Several recent studies have demonstrated a genetical overlap between autism and schizophrenia. However, at a behavioral level it remains unclear which features can validly distinguish adults with autism from an adult schizophrenia group. To this end, the present study compared 21 individuals with the autistic disorder and 21 individuals with…

Effects of Classroom Cell Phone Use on Expected and Actual Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Froese, Arnold D.; Carpenter, Christina N.; Inman, Denyse A.; Schooley, Jessica R.; Barnes, Rebecca B.; Brecht, Paul W.; Chacon, Jasmin D.

2012-01-01

Studies of driving indicate that the conversational aspects of using cell phones generate high risks from divided attention. Prior surveys document high rates at which students carry phones to and use them during class. Some experiments have demonstrated that cell phones distract students from learning. The present studies combined survey and…

A Census Study of Georgia's 2004-2006 Reading First Schools and the Achievement of Struggling Readers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brooks, Kristina L.

2009-01-01

Because children living in poverty and minorities consistently demonstrate persistent reading difficulties (Adams, 1990), Congress intervened and passed the No Child Left Behind Act (U.S. Department of Education, 2006) mandating that scientifically based reading research be implemented in the primary grades. Quantitative studies presented in the…

Developmental Alcohol-Specific Parenting Profiles in Adolescence and Their Relationships with Adolescents' Alcohol Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koning, Ina M.; van den Eijnden, Regina J. J. M.; Verdurmen, Jacqueline E. E.; Engels, Rutger C. M. E.; Vollebergh, Wilma A. M.

2012-01-01

Previous studies on general parenting have demonstrated the relevance of strict parenting within a supportive social context for a variety of adolescent behaviors, such as alcohol use. Yet, alcohol-specific parenting practices are generally examined as separate predictors of adolescents' drinking behavior. The present study examined different…

The Influencing and Effective Model of Early Childhood: Teachers' Job Satisfaction in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jiang, Yong

2005-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the influencing and effective models of Chinese early childhood teachers' job satisfaction. Using a questionnaire of 317 teachers from 21 kindergartens in Shanghai, China, the present study established the influencing and effective structure model of teachers' job satisfaction. The results demonstrated that…

In the Soup: Integrating and Correlating Social Studies with Other Curriculum Areas: Part Two.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Atwood, Virginia A.; And Others

1989-01-01

Demonstrates a thematic approach, using soup as the theme, to integrate and correlate elementary social studies with other subject areas. Outlines four soup activities, presenting goals, materials, strategies, and extensions of each. Stresses how integrated curricula effectively develops skills such as observing, inferring, serial ordering, and…

A Theory for the Neural Basis of Language Part 2: Simulation Studies of the Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baron, R. J.

1974-01-01

Computer simulation studies of the proposed model are presented. Processes demonstrated are (1) verbally directed recall of visual experience; (2) understanding of verbal information; (3) aspects of learning and forgetting; (4) the dependence of recognition and understanding in context; and (5) elementary concepts of sentence production. (Author)

Selective Learning and Teaching among Japanese and German Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Sunae; Paulus, Markus; Sodian, Beate; Itakura, Shoji; Ueno, Mika; Senju, Atsushi; Proust, Joëlle

2018-01-01

Despite an increasing number of studies demonstrating that young children selectively learn from others, and a few studies of children's selective teaching, the evidence almost exclusively comes from Western cultures, and cross-cultural comparison in this line of work is very rare. In the present research, we investigated Japanese and German…

Fluent Aphasia in Telugu: A Case Comparison Study of Semantic Dementia and Stroke Aphasia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alladi, Suvarna; Mridula, Rukmini; Mekala, Shailaja; Rupela, Vani; Kaul, Subhash

2010-01-01

This study presents two cases with fluent aphasia in Telugu with semantic dementia and post-stroke fluent aphasia. Comparable scores were obtained on the conventional neuropsychological and language tests that were administered on the two cases. Both cases demonstrated fluent, grammatical and well-articulated speech with little content, impaired…

Evidence for Different Components in Children's Visuospatial Working Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mammarella, Irene C.; Pazzaglia, Francesca; Cornoldi, Cesare

2008-01-01

There are a large number of studies demonstrating that visuospatial working memory (VSWM) involves different subcomponents, but there is no agreement on the identity of these dimensions. The present study attempts to combine different theoretical accounts by measuring VSWM. A battery composed of 13 tests was used to assess working memory and, in…

Analogical Scaffolding and the Learning of Abstract Ideas in Physics: Empirical Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Podolefsky, Noah S.; Finkelstein, Noah D.

2007-01-01

Previously, we proposed a model of student reasoning which combines the roles of representation, analogy, and layering of meaning--analogical scaffolding [Podolefsky and Finkelstein, Phys. Rev. ST Phys. Educ. Res. 3, 010109 (2007)]. The present empirical studies build on this model to examine its utility and demonstrate the vital intertwining of…

Linking Maternal Warmth and Responsiveness to Children's Self-Regulation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

von Suchodoletz, Antje; Trommsdorff, Gisela; Heikamp, Tobias

2011-01-01

The present study demonstrated that a more differentiated view of positive parenting practices is necessary in the study of children's acquisition of self-regulation. Here, the unique contributions of maternal warmth and responsiveness to distress to children's self-regulation were tested in a sample of 102 German mothers and their kindergarten…

Complexity in Student Writing: The Relationship between the Task and Vocabulary Uptake

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wolsey, Thomas D.

2010-01-01

Cognitive flexibility theory posits that some tasks or cognitive activities resist oversimplification, a lens through which the present study is cast. High school writing tasks that promote complex thinking may also promote increased uptake of academic vocabulary. The study described in this article demonstrates how essential questions and other…

Ultrafast laser-collision-induced fluorescence in atmospheric pressure plasma

DOE PAGES

Barnat, E. V.; Fierro, A.

2017-03-07

The implementation and demonstration of laser-collision-induced fluorescence (LCIF) generated in atmospheric pressure helium environments is presented in this communication. As collision times are observed to be fast (~10 ns), ultrashort pulse laser excitation (<100 fs) of the 2 3S to 3 3P (388.9 nm) is utilized to initiate the LCIF process. Both neutral-induced and electron-induced components of the LCIF are observed in the helium afterglow plasma as the reduced electric field (E/N) is tuned from <0.1 Td to over 5 Td. Under the discharge conditions presented in this study (640 Torr He), the lower limit of electron density detection ismore » ~10 12 e cm -3. Lastly, the spatial profiles of the 2 3S helium metastable and electrons are presented as functions of E/N to demonstrate the spatial resolving capabilities of the LCIF method.« less

Pantomime to visual presentation of objects: left hand dyspraxia in patients with complete callosotomy.

PubMed

Lausberg, Hedda; Cruz, Robyn F; Kita, Sotaro; Zaidel, Eran; Ptito, Alain

2003-02-01

Investigations of left hand praxis in imitation and object use in patients with callosal disconnection have yielded divergent results, inducing a debate between two theoretical positions. Whereas Liepmann suggested that the left hemisphere is motor dominant, others maintain that both hemispheres have equal motor competences and propose that left hand apraxia in patients with callosal disconnection is secondary to left hemispheric specialization for language or other task modalities. The present study aims to gain further insight into the motor competence of the right hemisphere by investigating pantomime of object use in split-brain patients. Three patients with complete callosotomy and, as control groups, five patients with partial callosotomy and nine healthy subjects were examined for their ability to pantomime object use to visual object presentation and demonstrate object manipulation. In each condition, 11 objects were presented to the subjects who pantomimed or demonstrated the object use with either hand. In addition, six object pairs were presented to test bimanual coordination. Two independent raters evaluated the videotaped movement demonstrations. While object use demonstrations were perfect in all three groups, the split-brain patients displayed apraxic errors only with their left hands in the pantomime condition. The movement analysis of concept and execution errors included the examination of ipsilateral versus contralateral motor control. As the right hand/left hemisphere performances demonstrated retrieval of the correct movement concepts, concept errors by the left hand were taken as evidence for right hemisphere control. Several types of execution errors reflected a lack of distal motor control indicating the use of ipsilateral pathways. While one split-brain patient controlled his left hand predominantly by ipsilateral pathways in the pantomime condition, the error profile in the other two split-brain patients suggested that the right hemisphere controlled their left hands. In the object use condition, in all three split-brain patients fine-graded distal movements in the left hand indicated right hemispheric control. Our data show left hand apraxia in split-brain patients is not limited to verbal commands, but also occurs in pantomime to visual presentation of objects. As the demonstration with object in hand was unimpaired in either hand, both hemispheres must contain movement concepts for object use. However, the disconnected right hemisphere is impaired in retrieving the movement concept in response to visual object presentation, presumably because of a deficit in associating perceptual object representation with the movement concepts.

The effect of urothelial damage on ureteric motility. An ultrastructural and functional study.

PubMed

Ugaily-Thulesius, L; Thulesius, O; Sabha, M

1988-07-01

Evidence of a leaky urothelial barrier in bilharzial uropathy is presented. The ultrastructural basis of this concept is demonstrated together with its functional consequences. The study was conducted on 4 ureters obtained at surgery from patients with non-functioning kidneys due to chronic bilharzial infections. Six normal ureters from kidney donors served as controls. Light and electron microscopic studies showed a reduced thickness of the transitional epithelium together with localised disruption of intercellular junctions and infiltration of red blood cells. The functional studies involved in vitro demonstration of stable phasic peristaltic contractions which were fundamentally altered by the addition of urine. The changes in motility included increase in contractile frequency and elevation of basal tone, inducing a state of hypermotility which could be equated with ureteric spasm. These changes were partly reversible upon administration of the histamine l-blocker, mepyramine. Evidence is presented to show that these changes might be induced in vivo by histamine released from mast cells triggered by urine leaking through a damaged urothelial barrier. The functional consequences (pain, spasm) are discussed.

The training intensity distribution among well-trained and elite endurance athletes

PubMed Central

Stöggl, Thomas L.; Sperlich, Billy

2015-01-01

Researchers have retrospectively analyzed the training intensity distribution (TID) of nationally and internationally competitive athletes in different endurance disciplines to determine the optimal volume and intensity for maximal adaptation. The majority of studies present a “pyramidal” TID with a high proportion of high volume, low intensity training (HVLIT). Some world-class athletes appear to adopt a so-called “polarized” TID (i.e., significant % of HVLIT and high-intensity training) during certain phases of the season. However, emerging prospective randomized controlled studies have demonstrated superior responses of variables related to endurance when applying a polarized TID in well-trained and recreational individuals when compared with a TID that emphasizes HVLIT or threshold training. The aims of the present review are to: (1) summarize the main responses of retrospective and prospective studies exploring TID; (2) provide a systematic overview on TIDs during preparation, pre-competition, and competition phases in different endurance disciplines and performance levels; (3) address whether one TID has demonstrated greater efficacy than another; and (4) highlight research gaps in an effort to direct future scientific studies. PMID:26578968

The training intensity distribution among well-trained and elite endurance athletes.

PubMed

Stöggl, Thomas L; Sperlich, Billy

2015-01-01

Researchers have retrospectively analyzed the training intensity distribution (TID) of nationally and internationally competitive athletes in different endurance disciplines to determine the optimal volume and intensity for maximal adaptation. The majority of studies present a "pyramidal" TID with a high proportion of high volume, low intensity training (HVLIT). Some world-class athletes appear to adopt a so-called "polarized" TID (i.e., significant % of HVLIT and high-intensity training) during certain phases of the season. However, emerging prospective randomized controlled studies have demonstrated superior responses of variables related to endurance when applying a polarized TID in well-trained and recreational individuals when compared with a TID that emphasizes HVLIT or threshold training. The aims of the present review are to: (1) summarize the main responses of retrospective and prospective studies exploring TID; (2) provide a systematic overview on TIDs during preparation, pre-competition, and competition phases in different endurance disciplines and performance levels; (3) address whether one TID has demonstrated greater efficacy than another; and (4) highlight research gaps in an effort to direct future scientific studies.

Electron spin-echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) reveals water and phosphate interactions with the KcsA potassium channel.

PubMed

Cieslak, John A; Focia, Pamela J; Gross, Adrian

2010-02-23

Electron spin-echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) spectroscopy is a well-established technique for the study of naturally occurring paramagnetic metal centers. The technique has been used to study copper complexes, hemes, enzyme mechanisms, micellar water content, and water permeation profiles in membranes, among other applications. In the present study, we combine ESEEM spectroscopy with site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) and X-ray crystallography in order to evaluate the technique's potential as a structural tool to describe the native environment of membrane proteins. Using the KcsA potassium channel as a model system, we demonstrate that deuterium ESEEM can detect water permeation along the lipid-exposed surface of the KcsA outer helix. We further demonstrate that (31)P ESEEM is able to identify channel residues that interact with the phosphate headgroup of the lipid bilayer. In combination with X-ray crystallography, the (31)P data may be used to define the phosphate interaction surface of the protein. The results presented here establish ESEEM as a highly informative technique for SDSL studies of membrane proteins.

Analysis of ToxCast data for food-relevant compounds by ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The ToxCast program has generated a wealth of in vitro high throughput screening data, and best approaches for the interpretation and use of these data remain undetermined. We present case studies comparing the ToxCast and in vivo toxicity data for two food contact substances using the RISK21 approach. Available exposure data, toxicity data, and model predictions were analyzed for sodium pyrithione and dibutyltin dichloride. In-vitro to in-vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) was performed to determine oral equivalent doses (OEDs) for the ToxCast data bioactivity. For sodium pyrithione, calculated OEDs corresponded to doses that demonstrated toxicity in animal studies. For dibutyltin dichloride, calculated OEDs were below the doses that demonstrated toxicity in animals, but this was confounded by the conservative estimates used in the IVIVE calculations. These studies highlight the potential of the ToxCast approach while also indicating areas where additional data or predictive tools are needed. We present case studies comparing the ToxCast and in vivo toxicity data for two food contact substances using the RISK21 approach.

Conservation Presentation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friday, Gerald

2001-01-01

Introduces a project in which students teach about the importance of recycling and conservation by presenting demonstrations. Includes demonstrations on water, plastic, and other recycling products such as steel. (YDS)

A possible structural signature of the onset of cooperativity in metallic liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, R.; Ashcraft, R.; Kelton, K. F.

2018-05-01

It is widely, although not universally, believed that there must be a connection between liquid dynamics and the structure. Previous supporting studies, for example, have demonstrated a link between the structural evolution in the liquid and kinetic fragility. Here, new results are presented that strengthen the evidence for a connection. By combining the results from high-energy synchrotron X-ray scattering studies of containerlessly processed supercooled liquids with viscosity measurements, an accelerated rate of structural ordering beyond the nearest neighbors in the liquid is demonstrated to correlate with the temperature at which the viscosity transitions from Arrhenius to super-Arrhenius behavior. This is the first confirmation of predictions from several recent molecular dynamics studies.

Tested Demonstrations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, George L., Ed.

1984-01-01

Procedures for two demonstrations are presented. The first is a demonstration of chemiluminescence. The second is a demonstration using a secondary battery constructed from common household articles. (JN)

A new biolistic intradermal injector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brouillette, M.; Doré, M.; Hébert, C.; Spooner, M.-F.; Marchand, S.; Côté, J.; Gobeil, F.; Rivest, M.; Lafrance, M.; Talbot, B. G.; Moutquin, J.-M.

2016-01-01

We present a novel intradermal needle-free drug delivery device which exploits the unsteady high-speed flow produced by a miniature shock tube to entrain drug or vaccine particles onto a skin target. A first clinical study of pain and physiological response of human subjects study is presented, comparing the new injector to intramuscular needle injection. This clinical study, performed according to established pain assessment protocols, demonstrated that every single subject felt noticeably less pain with the needle-free injector than with the needle injection. Regarding local tolerance and skin reaction, bleeding was observed on all volunteers after needle injection, but on none of the subjects following powder injection. An assessment of the pharmacodynamics, via blood pressure, of pure captopril powder using the new device on spontaneously hypertensive rats was also performed. It was found that every animal tested with the needle-free injector exhibited the expected pharmacodynamic response following captopril injection. Finally, the new injector was used to study the delivery of an inactivated influenza vaccine in mice. The needle-free device induced serum antibody response to the influenza vaccine that was comparable to that of subcutaneous needle injection, but without requiring the use of an adjuvant. Although no effort was made to optimize the formulation or the injection parameters in the present study, the novel injector demonstrates great promise for the rapid, safe and painless intradermal delivery of systemic drugs and vaccines.

Using Dynamic Geometry Software To Add Contrast to Geometric Situations--A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holzl, Reinhard

2001-01-01

Uses of Dynamic Geometry Software (DGS) are often limited purely to a verifying role. Presents a case study that emerged from a project in which DGS formed an integral part of the pedagogical arrangement. The study demonstrates how the contrasting power of DGS might be utilized in a guided discovery setting. (Contains 17 references.) (Author/ASK)

An Assessment of Student Preferences for PowerPoint Presentation Structure in Undergraduate Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Apperson, Jennifer M.; Laws, Eric L.; Scepansky, James A.

2008-01-01

Studies have demonstrated that students prefer PowerPoint and respond favorably to classes when it is used. Few studies have addressed the physical structure of PowerPoint. In this study, students enrolled in several psychology classes on two campuses completed a 36 item questionnaire regarding their preferences for the use of PowerPoint in the…

Is Counseling Going to the Dogs? An Exploratory Study Related to the Inclusion of an Animal in Group Counseling with Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lange, Amber M.; Cox, Jane A.; Bernert, Donna J.; Jenkins, Christie D.

2007-01-01

Research has demonstrated that the use of animals in counseling provides beneficial effects to clients. This article presents literature on Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), and details an exploratory study that applied AAT in an adolescent anger management group. Consistent with other research, beneficial effects noted in this study included a…

Blocking of conditioned taste avoidance induced by wheel running.

PubMed

Pierce, W David; Heth, C Donald

2010-01-01

In Experiment 1, compared to non-reinforced presentation of a food stimulus (A-->no US), the association of a food stimulus with wheel running (A-->US) blocked subsequent avoidance of a distinctive flavor (X), when both the food and flavor were followed by wheel running (AX-->US). Experiment 2 replicated and extended the blocking effect, demonstrating that the amount of avoidance of X after AX-->wheel training depended on the correlation between A-alone trials and wheel running-the predictiveness of the A stimulus. The present study is the first to demonstrate associative blocking of conditioned taste avoidance (CTA) induced by wheel running and strongly implicates associative learning as the basis for this kind of avoidance. 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Engineering development and demonstration of DETOX{sup SM} wet oxidation for mixed waste treatment

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

Dhooge, P.M.; Goldblatt, S.D.; Moslander, J.E.

1997-12-01

DETOX{sup SM}, a catalyzed chemical oxidation process, is under development for treatment of hazardous and mixed wastes at Department of Energy sites. To support this effort, developmental engineering studies have been formed for aspects of the process to help ensure safe and effective operation. Subscale agitation studies have been preformed to identify a suitable mixing head and speed for the primary reaction vessel agitator. Mechanisms for feeding solid waste materials to the primary reaction vessel have been investigated. Filtration to remove solid field process residue, and the use of various filtration aids, has been studied. Extended compatibility studies on themore » materials of construction have been performed. Due to a change to Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site (RFETS) for the mixed waste portion of the demonstration, types of wastes suitable and appropriate for treatment at RFETS had to be chosen. A Prototype unit has been fabricated and will be demonstrated on hazardous and mixed wastes at Savannah River Site (SRS) and RFETS during 1997 and 1998. The unit is in shakedown testing at present. Data validation and an engineering evaluation will be performed during the demonstration.« less

Phase Equilibria in the ZnO-"FeO"-SiO2 System in Reducing Atmosphere and in the ZnO-"FeO"-SiO2-"Cu2O" System in Equilibrium with Liquid Copper Metal at 1250 °C (1523 K)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hidayat, Taufiq; Hayes, Peter C.; Jak, Evgueni

2018-05-01

Recent experimental studies in the ZnO-"FeO"-SiO2 system in reducing atmosphere demonstrated significant discrepancies with the current FactSage thermodynamic model developed using previous experimental data in this system in equilibrium with metallic iron and air. The present experimental study on phase equilibria in the ZnO-"FeO"-SiO2-"Cu2O" system in equilibrium with liquid copper at 1250 °C (1523 K) at low copper oxide concentrations in slag was initiated and undertaken to resolve these discrepancies. A high-temperature equilibration-rapid quenching-electron-probe X-ray microanalysis (EPMA) technique using a primary phase substrate support and closed system approach with Cu metal introduced to determine effective equilibrium oxygen partial pressure from the Cumetal/Cu2Oslag equilibria was applied to provide accurate information on the liquidus and corresponding solid compositions in the spinel, willemite, and tridymite primary phase fields. The present results confirmed the accuracy of the FactSage model, resolved discrepancies, and demonstrated significant uncertainties in the recent studies by other authors on the system in the open reducing atmosphere. The present study shows how this closed system approach can be used to obtain key thermodynamic data on phase equilibria in systems containing volatile metal species, overcoming the limitations and uncertainties encountered in conventional open gas/condensed phase equilibration with these systems. The study highlights the importance of the focus on obtaining accurate experimental data and the risks of misleading information from inadequate experimental control and analysis. The study also demonstrates that continuing in-depth critical review and analysis of the elemental reactions taking place in complex systems is an essential step in phase equilibrium research.

Spectral Cauchy Characteristic Extraction: Gravitational Waves and Gauge Free News

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handmer, Casey; Szilagyi, Bela; Winicour, Jeff

2015-04-01

We present a fast, accurate spectral algorithm for the characteristic evolution of the full non-linear vacuum Einstein field equations in the Bondi framework. Developed within the Spectral Einstein Code (SpEC), we demonstrate how spectral Cauchy characteristic extraction produces gravitational News without confounding gauge effects. We explain several numerical innovations and demonstrate speed, stability, accuracy, exponential convergence, and consistency with existing methods. We highlight its capability to deliver physical insights in the study of black hole binaries.

Variable Cycle Engine Technology Program Planning and Definition Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westmoreland, J. S.; Stern, A. M.

1978-01-01

The variable stream control engine, VSCE-502B, was selected as the base engine, with the inverted flow engine concept selected as a backup. Critical component technologies were identified, and technology programs were formulated. Several engine configurations were defined on a preliminary basis to serve as demonstration vehicles for the various technologies. The different configurations present compromises in cost, technical risk, and technology return. Plans for possible variably cycle engine technology programs were formulated by synthesizing the technology requirements with the different demonstrator configurations.

Tethers in space handbook

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reese, T. G.; Baracat, W. A.; Butner, C. L.

1986-01-01

The handbook provides a list and description of ongoing tether programs. This includes the joint U.S.-Italy demonstration project, and individual U.S. and Italian studies and demonstration programs. An overview of the current activity level and areas of emphasis in this emerging field is provided. The fundamental physical principles behind the proposed tether applications are addressed. Four basic concepts of gravity gradient, rotation, momentum exchange, and electrodynamics are discussed. Information extracted from literature, which supplements and enhances the tether applications is also presented. A bibliography is appended.

Degravitation of the cosmological constant in bigravity

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

Platscher, Moritz; Smirnov, Juri, E-mail: moritz.platscher@mpi-hd.mpg.de, E-mail: juri.smirnov@mpi-hd.mpg.de

2017-03-01

In this article the phenomenon of degravitation of the cosmological constant is studied in the framework of bigravity. It is demonstrated that despite a sizable value of the cosmological constant its gravitational effect can be only mild. The bigravity framework is chosen for this demonstration as it leads to a consistent, ghost-free theory of massive gravity. We show that degravitation takes place in the limit where the physical graviton is dominantly a gauge invariant metric combination. We present and discuss several phenomenological consequences expected in this regime.

TECA: A Parallel Toolkit for Extreme Climate Analysis

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

Prabhat, Mr; Ruebel, Oliver; Byna, Surendra

2012-03-12

We present TECA, a parallel toolkit for detecting extreme events in large climate datasets. Modern climate datasets expose parallelism across a number of dimensions: spatial locations, timesteps and ensemble members. We design TECA to exploit these modes of parallelism and demonstrate a prototype implementation for detecting and tracking three classes of extreme events: tropical cyclones, extra-tropical cyclones and atmospheric rivers. We process a modern TB-sized CAM5 simulation dataset with TECA, and demonstrate good runtime performance for the three case studies.

Neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn) regulates cross-presentation of IgG immune complexes by CD8−CD11b+ dendritic cells

PubMed Central

Baker, Kristi; Qiao, Shuo-Wang; Kuo, Timothy T.; Aveson, Victoria G.; Platzer, Barbara; Andersen, Jan-Terje; Sandlie, Inger; Chen, Zhangguo; de Haar, Colin; Lencer, Wayne I.; Fiebiger, Edda; Blumberg, Richard S.

2011-01-01

Cross-presentation of IgG-containing immune complexes (ICs) is an important means by which dendritic cells (DCs) activate CD8+ T cells, yet it proceeds by an incompletely understood mechanism. We show that monocyte-derived CD8−CD11b+ DCs require the neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn) to conduct cross-presentation of IgG ICs. Consequently, in the absence of FcRn, Fcγ receptor (FcγR)-mediated antigen uptake fails to initiate cross-presentation. FcRn is shown to regulate the intracellular sorting of IgG ICs to the proper destination for such cross-presentation to occur. We demonstrate that FcRn traps antigen and protects it from degradation within an acidic loading compartment in association with the rapid recruitment of key components of the phagosome-to-cytosol cross-presentation machinery. This unique mechanism thus enables cross-presentation to evolve from an atypically acidic loading compartment. FcRn-driven cross-presentation is further shown to control cross-priming of CD8+ T-cell responses in vivo such that during chronic inflammation, FcRn deficiency results in inadequate induction of CD8+ T cells. These studies thus demonstrate that cross-presentation in CD8−CD11b+ DCs requires a two-step mechanism that involves FcγR-mediated internalization and FcRn-directed intracellular sorting of IgG ICs. Given the centrality of FcRn in controlling cross-presentation, these studies lay the foundation for a unique means to therapeutically manipulate CD8+ T-cell responses. PMID:21628593

Extrapolating Accelerated UV Weathering Data: Perspective From PVQAT Task Group 5 (Presentation)

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

Miller, D.; Annigoni, E.; Ballion, A.

2015-02-01

Taskgroup 5 (TG5) is concerned with a accelerated aging standard incorporating factors including ultraviolet radiation, temperature, and moisture. Separate experiments are being conducted in support of a test standard via the regional sub-groups in Asia, Europe, and the United States. The authors will describe the objectives and timeline for the TG5 interlaboratory study being directed out of the USA. Qualitative preliminary data from the experiment is presented. To date, the encapsulation transmittance experiment has: replicated behaviors of fielded materials (including specimen location- and formulation additive-specific discoloration); demonstrated coupling between UV aging and temperature; demonstrated that degradation in EVA results frommore » UV- aging; and obtained good qualitative comparison between Xe and UVA-340 sources for EVA. To date, the encapsulation adhesion experiment (using the compressive shear test to quantify strength of attachment) has demonstrated that attachment strength can decrease drastically (>50%) with age; however, early results suggest significant factor (UV, T, RH) dependence. Much remains to be learned about adhesion.« less

Managing Auditory Risk from Acoustically Impulsive Chemical Demonstrations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Macedone, Jeffrey H.; Gee, Kent L.; Vernon, Julia A.

2014-01-01

Chemical demonstrations are an integral part of the process of how students construct meaning from chemical principles, but may introduce risks to students and presenters. Some demonstrations are known to be extremely loud and present auditory hazards; little has been done to assess the risks to educators and students. Using laboratory-grade…

The Relationship between Depression and College Academic Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeRoma, Virginia M.; Leach, John B.; Leverett, J. Patrick

2009-01-01

The current study examined the association between self-reported depressive symptomology and college academic performance. A significant, negative relationship was found between depression and academic performance. Furthermore, students presenting with moderate levels of depressive symptoms demonstrated lower performance within academic…

Chiral Crystallization of Ethylenediamine Sulfate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koby, Lawrence; Ningappa, Jyothi B.; Dakesssian, Maria; Cuccia, Louis A.

2005-01-01

The optimal conditions for the crystallization of achiral ethylenediamine sulfate into large chiral crystals that are ideal for polarimetry studies and observation using Polaroid sheets are presented. This experiment is an ideal undergraduate experiment, which clearly demonstrates the chiral crystallization of an achiral molecule.

Applications for improved inventory management for public transit systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-01-01

This report documents and presents the results of a Testing and Demonstration (T&D) Project on applications for improved inventory management for public transit systems. This project is a follow-up to an earlier study on inventory management for bus ...

Unitization of Related Words in Short Term Store

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fritzen, James

1974-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to assess whether or not categorized words are of similar benefit to short-term storage (STS). Specifically, can the use of categorized words be demonstrated to alleviate the limited rehearsal capacity of STS? (Author)

Quantitative measurement of holographic image quality using Adobe Photoshop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wesly, E.

2013-02-01

Measurement of the characteristics of image holograms in regards to diffraction efficiency and signal to noise ratio are demonstrated, using readily available digital cameras and image editing software. Illustrations and case studies, using currently available holographic recording materials, are presented.

Field Evaluation of Advanced Methods of Subsurface Exploration for Transit Tunneling

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1980-06-01

This report presents the results of a field evaluation of advanced methods of subsurface exploration on an ongoing urban rapid transit tunneling project. The objective of this study is to evaluate, through a field demonstration project, the feasibili...

Curcumin uptake enhancement using low dose light illumination during incubation in Candida albicans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romano, Renan A.; Pratavieira, Sebastião.; da Silva, Ana P.; Kurachi, Cristina; Bagnato, Vanderlei S.; Guimarães, Francisco E. G.

2017-07-01

A new PDI protocol is presented in this study. C. albicans cells pre-illuminated with a low dose light demonstrated an increase of curcumin uptake when compared to dark incubation, leading to a higher PDI efficacy.

Concomitant presentation of Anderson-Tawil syndrome and myasthenia gravis in an adult patient: A case report.

PubMed

Fan, Rui; Ji, Ruirui; Zou, Wenxin; Wang, Guoliang; Wang, Hu; Penney, Daniel James; Luo, Jin Jun; Fan, Yuxin

2016-10-01

Andersen-Tawil syndrome (ATS) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem channelopathy characterized by periodic paralysis, ventricular arrhythmias and distinctive dysmorphic facial or skeletal features. The disorder displays marked intrafamilial variability and incomplete penetrance. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that demonstrates progressive fatigability, in which the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) at neuromuscular junctions is the primary autoantigen. The present study reports a rare case of a 31-year-old woman with a history of morbid obesity and periodic weakness, who presented with hemodynamic instability, cardiogenic shock and facial anomalies. Laboratory results revealed hypokalemia and an elevated anti-AChR antibody expression levels. Electrocardiography demonstrated prolonged QT-interval, ST-elevation, and subsequent third-degree atrioventricular block. Neurological examination revealed bilateral ptosis, horizontal diplopia, dysarthria and generalized weakness. No mutations in the potassium channel inwardly rectifying subfamily J member 2 gene were detected in the present case. The patient was treated with oral potassium supplementation and an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (pyridostigmine), after which the symptoms were improved. To the best of our knowledge, the present case report was the first to describe concomitant presentation of both ATS and MG, which represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

Inconsistent-handed advantage in episodic memory extends to paragraph-level materials.

PubMed

Prichard, Eric C; Christman, Stephen D

2017-09-01

Past research using handedness as a proxy for functional access to the right hemisphere demonstrates that individuals who are mixed/inconsistently handed outperform strong/consistently handed individuals when performing episodic recall tasks. However, research has generally been restricted to stimuli presented in a list format. In the present paper, we present two studies in which participants were presented with paragraph-level material and then asked to recall material from the passages. The first study was based on a classic study looking at retroactive interference with prose materials. The second was modelled on a classic experiment looking at perspective taking and the content of memory. In both studies, the classic effects were replicated and the general finding that mixed/inconsistent-handers outperform strong/consistent-handers was replicated. This suggests that considering degree of handedness may be an empirically useful means of reducing error variance in paradigms looking at memory for prose level material.

Tested Demonstrations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, George L., Ed.

1987-01-01

Presented are three demonstrations for chemical education. The activities include: (1) demonstration of vapor pressure; (2) a multicolored luminol-based chemiluminescence demonstration; and (3) a Charles's Law/Vapor pressure apparatus. (RH)

Properties of MHC Class I Presented Peptides That Enhance Immunogenicity

PubMed Central

Calis, Jorg J. A.; Maybeno, Matt; Greenbaum, Jason A.; Weiskopf, Daniela; De Silva, Aruna D.; Sette, Alessandro; Keşmir, Can; Peters, Bjoern

2013-01-01

T-cells have to recognize peptides presented on MHC molecules to be activated and elicit their effector functions. Several studies demonstrate that some peptides are more immunogenic than others and therefore more likely to be T-cell epitopes. We set out to determine which properties cause such differences in immunogenicity. To this end, we collected and analyzed a large set of data describing the immunogenicity of peptides presented on various MHC-I molecules. Two main conclusions could be drawn from this analysis: First, in line with previous observations, we showed that positions P4–6 of a presented peptide are more important for immunogenicity. Second, some amino acids, especially those with large and aromatic side chains, are associated with immunogenicity. This information was combined into a simple model that was used to demonstrate that immunogenicity is, to a certain extent, predictable. This model (made available at http://tools.iedb.org/immunogenicity/) was validated with data from two independent epitope discovery studies. Interestingly, with this model we could show that T-cells are equipped to better recognize viral than human (self) peptides. After the past successful elucidation of different steps in the MHC-I presentation pathway, the identification of variables that influence immunogenicity will be an important next step in the investigation of T-cell epitopes and our understanding of cellular immune responses. PMID:24204222

Effects of cell-phone and text-message distractions on true and false recognition.

PubMed

Smith, Theodore S; Isaak, Matthew I; Senette, Christian G; Abadie, Brenton G

2011-06-01

This study examined the effects of electronic communication distractions, including cell-phone and texting demands, on true and false recognition, specifically semantically related words presented and not presented on a computer screen. Participants were presented with 24 Deese-Roediger-McDermott (DRM) lists while manipulating the concurrent presence or absence of cell-phone and text-message distractions during study. In the DRM paradigm, participants study lists of semantically related words (e.g., mother, crib, and diaper) linked to a non-presented critical lure (e.g., baby). After studying the lists of words, participants are then requested to recall or recognize previously presented words. Participants often not only demonstrate high remembrance for presented words (true memory: crib), but also recollection for non-presented words (false memory: baby). In the present study, true memory was highest when participants were not presented with any distraction tasks during study of DRM words, but poorer when they were required to complete a cell-phone conversation or text-message task during study. False recognition measures did not statistically vary across distraction conditions. Signal detection analyses showed that participants better discriminated true targets (list items presented during study) from true target controls (items presented during study only) when cell-phone or text-message distractions were absent than when they were present. Response bias did not vary significantly across distraction conditions, as there were no differences in the likelihood that a participant would claim an item as "old" (previously presented) rather than "new" (not previously presented). Results of this study are examined with respect to both activation monitoring and fuzzy trace theories.

Dual-tracer background subtraction approach for fluorescent molecular tomography

PubMed Central

Holt, Robert W.; El-Ghussein, Fadi; Davis, Scott C.; Samkoe, Kimberley S.; Gunn, Jason R.; Leblond, Frederic

2013-01-01

Abstract. Diffuse fluorescence tomography requires high contrast-to-background ratios to accurately reconstruct inclusions of interest. This is a problem when imaging the uptake of fluorescently labeled molecularly targeted tracers in tissue, which can result in high levels of heterogeneously distributed background uptake. We present a dual-tracer background subtraction approach, wherein signal from the uptake of an untargeted tracer is subtracted from targeted tracer signal prior to image reconstruction, resulting in maps of targeted tracer binding. The approach is demonstrated in simulations, a phantom study, and in a mouse glioma imaging study, demonstrating substantial improvement over conventional and homogenous background subtraction image reconstruction approaches. PMID:23292612

A Student’s Guide to Giant Viruses Infecting Small Eukaryotes: From Acanthamoeba to Zooxanthellae

PubMed Central

Wilhelm, Steven W.; Bird, Jordan T.; Bonifer, Kyle S.; Calfee, Benjamin C.; Chen, Tian; Coy, Samantha R.; Gainer, P. Jackson; Gann, Eric R.; Heatherly, Huston T.; Lee, Jasper; Liang, Xiaolong; Liu, Jiang; Armes, April C.; Moniruzzaman, Mohammad; Rice, J. Hunter; Stough, Joshua M. A.; Tams, Robert N.; Williams, Evan P.; LeCleir, Gary R.

2017-01-01

The discovery of infectious particles that challenge conventional thoughts concerning “what is a virus” has led to the evolution a new field of study in the past decade. Here, we review knowledge and information concerning “giant viruses”, with a focus not only on some of the best studied systems, but also provide an effort to illuminate systems yet to be better resolved. We conclude by demonstrating that there is an abundance of new host–virus systems that fall into this “giant” category, demonstrating that this field of inquiry presents great opportunities for future research. PMID:28304329

Salvianolic acid B reverses multidrug resistance in nude mice bearing human colon cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Guo, Piaoting; Wang, Jianchao; Gao, Wencang; Liu, Xia; Wu, Shaofei; Wan, Boshun; Xu, Lei; Li, Yanhua

2018-05-29

Salvianolic acid B (SalB) is a water‑soluble phenolic compound, extractable from Salvia miltiorrhiza, and has previously been demonstrated to reverse tumor multidrug resistance (MDR) in colon cancer cells. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are closely associated with drug resistance. Therefore, establishing a nude mouse model bearing human colon CSCs is important for the study of the mechanisms underlying colon cancer drug resistance as well as the reversal of drug resistance. The present study aimed to establish a nude mouse model bearing human colon CSCs and to investigate the effects of SalB on the drug resistance exhibited by the nude mouse model as well as determine its underlying mechanism. Cells from two colon cancer cell lines (LoVo and HCT‑116) were cultured in serum‑free medium to obtain CSCs‑enriched spheroid cells. Following this, nude mice were transplanted with LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs to establish the CSC nude mouse model, which was subsequently demonstrated to exhibit MDR. The results of the present study revealed that following treatment with SalB, the chemotherapeutic drug resistance of xenografts was reversed to a certain extent. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the expression levels of cluster of differentiation (CD)44, CD133, transcription factor sox‑2 (SOX2) and ATP‑binding cassette sub‑family G member 2 (ABCG2) proteins, and the results demonstrated that treatment with SalB downregulated the expression of CD44, SOX2 and ABCG2 proteins in both LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs xenografts. In conclusion, the results of the present study revealed that a serum‑free suspension method can be performed to successfully isolate colon CSCs. In addition, a nude mice bearing colon CSCs animal model was successfully established, and associated tumors were confirmed to exhibit MDR. Furthermore, SalB was demonstrated to successfully reverse MDR in nude mice bearing LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs, as well as suppress the expression of CD44, SOX2 and ABCG2 proteins.

Post mitigation impact risk analysis for asteroid deflection demonstration missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eggl, Siegfried; Hestroffer, Daniel; Thuillot, William; Bancelin, David; Cano, Juan L.; Cichocki, Filippo

2015-08-01

Even though mankind believes to have the capabilities to avert potentially disastrous asteroid impacts, only the realization of mitigation demonstration missions can validate this claim. Such a deflection demonstration attempt has to be cost effective, easy to validate, and safe in the sense that harmless asteroids must not be turned into potentially hazardous objects. Uncertainties in an asteroid's orbital and physical parameters as well as those additionally introduced during a mitigation attempt necessitate an in depth analysis of deflection mission designs in order to dispel planetary safety concerns. We present a post mitigation impact risk analysis of a list of potential kinetic impactor based deflection demonstration missions proposed in the framework of the NEOShield project. Our results confirm that mitigation induced uncertainties have a significant influence on the deflection outcome. Those cannot be neglected in post deflection impact risk studies. We show, furthermore, that deflection missions have to be assessed on an individual basis in order to ensure that asteroids are not inadvertently transported closer to the Earth at a later date. Finally, we present viable targets and mission designs for a kinetic impactor test to be launched between the years 2025 and 2032.

NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation's Highly-Loaded Front Block Compressor Demonstration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Celestina, Mark

2016-01-01

This presentation will detail the work done to improve thermal efficiency in the compression process of a gas turbine engine for aircraft applications under NASAs Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project. The talk will present the goals and objectives of the work and show the activity of both Phase 1 and Phase 2 tests and analysis. The summary shows the projected fuel burn savings achieved through system studies.

Foreign body aspiration in dentistry: a review.

PubMed

Cameron, S M; Whitlock, W L; Tabor, M S

1996-08-01

This article reviews the dangers of aspirating foreign bodies of dental origin. Two illustrative cases are presented, including an unusual case involving aspiration of an elastomeric impression material. The authors describe the techniques used to identify the foreign body. A radiodensimetric study of four impression materials demonstrates the difficulty of identifying most impression materials. The authors also present some strategies for reducing the risk of aspiration during dental procedures.

Dataset demonstrating effects of momentum transfer on sizing of current collector for lithium-ion batteries during laser cutting.

PubMed

Lee, Dongkyoung; Mazumder, Jyotirmoy

2018-04-01

Material properties of copper and aluminum required for the numerical simulation are presented. Electrodes used for the (paper) are depicted. This study describes the procedures of how penetration depth, width, and absorptivity are obtained from the simulation. In addition, a file format extracted from the simulation to visualize 3D distribution of temperature, velocity, and melt pool geometry is presented.

Evaluation of Mucoadhesive Gels with Propolis (EPP-AF) in Preclinical Treatment of Candidiasis Vulvovaginal Infection

PubMed Central

de Castro, Patrícia Alves; Fortes, Vanessa Silveira; Bom, Vinícius Pedro; Nascimento, Andresa Piacezzi; Marquele-Oliveira, Franciane; Pedrazzi, Vinícius; Ramalho, Leandra Naira Zambelli; Goldman, Gustavo Henrique

2013-01-01

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second cause of vaginal infection in the USA. Clinical treatment of C. albicans infections is routinely performed with polyenes and azole derivatives. However, these drugs are responsible for undesirable side effects and toxicity. In addition, C. albicans azole and echinocandin resistance has been described. Propolis is a bee product traditionally used due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and other properties. Therefore, the present work aimed to evaluate different propolis presentations in order to evaluate their in vitro and in vivo efficacy. The methodologies involved antifungal evaluation, chemical analysis, and the effects of the rheological and mucoadhesive properties of propolis based gels. The obtained results demonstrated the fungicide action of propolis extracts against all three morphotypes (yeast, pseudohyphae, and hyphae) studied. The highest level of fungal cytotoxicity was reached at 6–8 hours of propolis cell incubation. Among the based gel formulations developed, the rheological and mucoadhesive results suggest that propolis based carbopol (CP1%) and chitosan gels were the most pseudoplastic ones. CP1% was the most mucoadhesive preparation, and all of them presented low thixotropy. Results of in vivo efficacy demonstrated that propolis based gels present antifungal action similar to clotrimazole cream, suggesting that future clinical studies should be performed. PMID:23997797

Student laboratory presentations as a learning tool in anatomy education.

PubMed

Chollet, Madeleine B; Teaford, Mark F; Garofalo, Evan M; DeLeon, Valerie B

2009-01-01

Previous studies have shown that anatomy students who complete oral laboratory presentations believe they understand the material better and retain it longer than they otherwise would if they only took examinations on the material; however, we have found no studies that empirically test such outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of oral presentations through comparisons with other methods of assessment, most notably, examination performance. Specifically, we tested whether students (n = 256) performed better on examination questions on topics covered by their oral presentations than on other topics. Each student completed two graded, 12-minute laboratory presentations on two different assigned topics during the course and took three examinations, each of which covered a third of the course material. Examination questions were characterized by type (memorization, pathway, analytical, spatial). A two-way repeated measures analysis of variance revealed that students performed better on topics covered by their presentations than on topics not covered by their presentations (P < 0.005), regardless of presentation grade (P > 0.05) and question type (P > 0.05). These results demonstrate empirically that oral presentations are an effective learning tool.

Granulomatous mastitis: changing clinical and imaging features with image-guided biopsy correlation.

PubMed

Handa, Priyanka; Leibman, A Jill; Sun, Derek; Abadi, Maria; Goldberg, Aryeh

2014-10-01

To review clinical presentation, revisit patient demographics and imaging findings in granulomatous mastitis and determine the optimal biopsy method for diagnosis. A retrospective study was performed to review the clinical presentation, imaging findings and biopsy methods in patients with granulomatous mastitis. Twenty-seven patients with pathology-proven granulomatous mastitis were included. The average age at presentation was 38.0 years (range, 21-73 years). Seven patients were between 48 and 73 years old. Twenty-four patients presented with symptoms and three patients were asymptomatic. Nineteen patients were imaged with mammography demonstrating mammographically occult lesions as the predominant finding. Twenty-six patients were imaged with ultrasound and the most common finding was a mass lesion. Pathological diagnosis was made by image-guided biopsy in 44 % of patients. The imaging features of granulomatous mastitis on mammography are infrequently described. Our study demonstrates that granulomatous mastitis can occur in postmenopausal or asymptomatic patients, although previously reported exclusively in young women with palpable findings. Presentation on mammography as calcifications requiring mammographically guided vacuum-assisted biopsy has not been previously described. The diagnosis of granulomatous mastitis can easily be made by image-guided biopsy and surgical excision should be reserved for definitive treatment. • Characterizes radiographic appearance of granulomatous mastitis in postmenopausal or asymptomatic patients. • Granulomatous mastitis can present exclusively as calcifications on mammography. • The diagnosis of granulomatous mastitis is made by image-guided biopsy techniques.

Edible Astronomy Demonstrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lubowich, D. A.

2006-08-01

By using astronomy demonstrations with edible ingredients, I have been able to increase student interest and knowledge of astronomical concepts. This approach has been successful with all age groups from elementary school through college students. I will present some of the edible demonstrations I have created including using popcorn to simulate radioactivity; using chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows to illustrate density and differentiation during the formation of the planets; and making big-bang brownies or chocolate chip-cookies to illustrate the expansion of the Universe. Sometimes the students eat the results of the astronomical demonstrations. These demonstrations are an effective teaching tool and the students remember these demonstrations after they are presented.

Cloning of the promoter region of a human gene, FOXL2, and its regulation by STAT3.

PubMed

Han, Yangyang; Wang, Tianxiao; Sun, Shudong; Zhai, Zhaohui; Tang, Shengjian

2017-09-01

Forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) is a transcription factor, which is involved in blepharophimosis, ptosis, and epicanthus in versus syndrome (BPES), premature ovarian failure (POF), as well as almost all stages of ovarian development and function. FOXL2 has various target genes, which are implicated in numerous processes, including sex determination, cell cycle regulation and apoptosis and stress response regulation in mammals. However, studies regarding the upstream regulation of FOXL2 are limited. In the present study, the promoter of FOXL2 was successfully cloned and registered in Gen Bank, and a dual luciferase reporter (DLR) analysis demonstrated that the luciferase activity was significantly induced by the promoter of FOXL2. Subsequently, bioinformatics analysis indicated that FOXL2 may be regulated by STAT3, and this was confirmed by a DLR analysis and western blotting, using STAT3 inhibitors. Further study using real‑time cellular analysis indicated that the viability of He La cells was markedly suppressed by STAT3 inhibitors. The present study demonstrated novel findings regarding the upstream regulation of FOXL2 expression and provide a new perspective for future studies in the field.

Observational evidence and strength of evidence domains: case examples

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Systematic reviews of healthcare interventions most often focus on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, certain circumstances warrant consideration of observational evidence, and such studies are increasingly being included as evidence in systematic reviews. Methods To illustrate the use of observational evidence, we present case examples of systematic reviews in which observational evidence was considered as well as case examples of individual observational studies, and how they demonstrate various strength of evidence domains in accordance with current Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Evidence-based Practice Center (EPC) methods guidance. Results In the presented examples, observational evidence is used when RCTs are infeasible or raise ethical concerns, lack generalizability, or provide insufficient data. Individual study case examples highlight how observational evidence may fulfill required strength of evidence domains, such as study limitations (reduced risk of selection, detection, performance, and attrition); directness; consistency; precision; and reporting bias (publication, selective outcome reporting, and selective analysis reporting), as well as additional domains of dose-response association, plausible confounding that would decrease the observed effect, and strength of association (magnitude of effect). Conclusions The cases highlighted in this paper demonstrate how observational studies may provide moderate to (rarely) high strength evidence in systematic reviews. PMID:24758494

Learning of grammar-like visual sequences by adults with and without language-learning disabilities.

PubMed

Aguilar, Jessica M; Plante, Elena

2014-08-01

Two studies examined learning of grammar-like visual sequences to determine whether a general deficit in statistical learning characterizes this population. Furthermore, we tested the hypothesis that difficulty in sustaining attention during the learning task might account for differences in statistical learning. In Study 1, adults with normal language (NL) or language-learning disability (LLD) were familiarized with the visual artificial grammar and then tested using items that conformed or deviated from the grammar. In Study 2, a 2nd sample of adults with NL and LLD were presented auditory word pairs with weak semantic associations (e.g., groom + clean) along with the visual learning task. Participants were instructed to attend to visual sequences and to ignore the auditory stimuli. Incidental encoding of these words would indicate reduced attention to the primary task. In Studies 1 and 2, both groups demonstrated learning and generalization of the artificial grammar. In Study 2, neither the NL nor the LLD group appeared to encode the words presented during the learning phase. The results argue against a general deficit in statistical learning for individuals with LLD and demonstrate that both NL and LLD learners can ignore extraneous auditory stimuli during visual learning.

Paeoniflorin protects against ischemia-induced brain damages in rats via inhibiting MAPKs/NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses.

PubMed

Guo, Ruo-Bing; Wang, Guo-Feng; Zhao, An-Peng; Gu, Jun; Sun, Xiu-Lan; Hu, Gang

2012-01-01

Paeoniflorin (PF), the principal component of Paeoniae Radix prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine, has been reported to exhibit many pharmacological effects including protection against ischemic injury. However, the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of PF on cerebral ischemia are still under investigation. The present study showed that PF treatment for 14 days could significantly inhibit transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced over-activation of astrocytes and microglia, and prevented up-regulations of pro-inflamamtory mediators (TNFα, IL-1β, iNOS, COX(2) and 5-LOX) in plasma and brain. Further study demonstrated that chronic treatment with PF suppressed the activations of JNK and p38 MAPK, but enhanced ERK activation. And PF could reverse ischemia-induced activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, our in vitro study revealed that PF treatment protected against TNFα-induced cell apoptosis and neuronal loss. Taken together, the present study demonstrates that PF produces a delayed protection in the ischemia-injured rats via inhibiting MAPKs/NF-κB mediated peripheral and cerebral inflammatory response. Our study reveals that PF might be a potential neuroprotective agent for stroke.

"Think" versus "feel" framing effects in persuasion.

PubMed

Mayer, Nicole D; Tormala, Zakary L

2010-04-01

Three studies explored think ("I think . . . ") versus feel ("I feel . . . ") message framing effects on persuasion.The authors propose a matching hypothesis, suggesting that think framing will be more persuasive when the target attitude or message recipient is cognitively oriented, whereas feel framing will be more persuasive when the target attitude or message recipient is affectively oriented. Study 1 presented cognitively and affectively oriented individuals with a think- or feel-framed message. Study 2 primed cognitive or affective orientation and then presented a think- or feel-framed message. Study 3 presented male and female participants with an advertisement containing think- or feel-framed arguments. Results indicated that think (feel) framing was more persuasive when the target attitude or recipient was cognitively (affectively) oriented. Moreover, Study 2 demonstrated that this matching effect was mediated by processing fluency. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Correlation of the Summary Method with Learning Styles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sarikcioglu, Levent; Senol, Yesim; Yildirim, Fatos B.; Hizay, Arzu

2011-01-01

The summary is the last part of the lesson but one of the most important. We aimed to study the relationship between the preference of the summary method (video demonstration, question-answer, or brief review of slides) and learning styles. A total of 131 students were included in the present study. An inventory was prepared to understand the…

A Process Evaluation of Project Developmental Continuity. Interim Report VI: Executive Summary. Recommendations for Continuing the Impact Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Granville, Arthur C.; Love, John M.

This brief report summarizes the analysis and conclusions presented in detail in Interim Report VI regarding the feasibility of conducting a longitudinal study of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC). This project is a Head Start demonstration program aimed at providing educational and developmental continuity between children's Head Start and…

Study of New Youth Initiatives in Apprenticeship. Interim Report. Volume 1: Summary and Issues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

CSR, Inc., Washington, DC.

This first volume of the interim report on the Study of New Youth Initiatives in Apprenticeship presents a discussion of site visit findings and implementation issues related to the United States Department of Labor's Apprenticeship-School Linkage Demonstrations. (Volume 2, site visit reports, is available separately as CE 032 792.) Chapter 1…

Variations in Figurative Language Use as a Function of Mode of Communication

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boerger, Michael A.

2005-01-01

Various studies have demonstrated that the mode by which people communicate affects the content of their messages. The present study examines the ways in which one aspect of language use, namely figurative language, differs as a function of mode of communication. Subjects worked together in pairs to build a small household appliance, with an…

Revisiting the Politics of Special Educational Needs and Disability Studies in Education with Len Barton

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Slee, Roger

2010-01-01

This brief essay celebrates the work of Len Barton. Drawing from a range of his texts, interviews and presentations, the essay attempts to demonstrate the importance of Barton's work in establishing foundations for the related fields of disability studies in education and inclusive education by revealing the politics of special educational needs…

Knowledge of a Second Language Influences Auditory Word Recognition in the Native Language

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lagrou, Evelyne; Hartsuiker, Robert J.; Duyck, Wouter

2011-01-01

Many studies in bilingual visual word recognition have demonstrated that lexical access is not language selective. However, research on bilingual word recognition in the auditory modality has been scarce, and it has yielded mixed results with regard to the degree of this language nonselectivity. In the present study, we investigated whether…

How Nonrecidivism Affects Predictive Accuracy: Evidence from a Cross-Validation of the Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment (ODARA)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hilton, N. Zoe; Harris, Grant T.

2009-01-01

Prediction effect sizes such as ROC area are important for demonstrating a risk assessment's generalizability and utility. How a study defines recidivism might affect predictive accuracy. Nonrecidivism is problematic when predicting specialized violence (e.g., domestic violence). The present study cross-validates the ability of the Ontario…

Explaining Educational Differences in Adolescent Substance Use and Early Sexual Debut: The Role of Parents and Peers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Looze, Margaretha; Harakeh, Zeena; van Dorsselaer, Saskia A. F. M.; Raaijmakers, Quinten A. W.; Vollebergh, Wilma A. M.; ter Bogt, Tom F. M.

2012-01-01

Previous studies from a wide variety of European countries have demonstrated that low educated adolescents engage more frequently in health risk behaviors compared to high educated adolescents. The present study investigates the mediating roles of parental knowledge and time spent with peers in this relationship. Data were retrieved from a…

Reforming Schools: A Case Study of New Basics in a Primary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jorgensen, Robyn; Walsh, Lynne; Niesche, Richard

2009-01-01

Reforming schools is a challenging aspect of contemporary education. The role of leadership within reform agendas is critical. This article presents a case study of one school that has been highly successful in the implementation of this reform. The processes employed by the school at various levels demonstrate the ways in which effective…

Cultural and Environmental Influences on Footedness: Cross-Sectional Study in Urban and Semi-Urban Malawi

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zverev, Y. P.; Mipando, M.

2007-01-01

The present study was designed to assess cultural and environmental pressure against left-foot preference in urban and semi-urban Malawi. The findings demonstrated that, when compared to handedness, footedness appeared to be less biased behavioral laterality in culturally restrictive communities. The percentage of responders with negative views on…

Teachers' Implicit Meaning Systems and Their Implications for Pedagogical Thinking and Practice: A Case Study from Finland

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rissanen, Inkeri; Kuusisto, Elina; Hanhimäki, Eija; Tirri, Kirsi

2018-01-01

This qualitative case study examines teachers' implicit meaning systems built around their core beliefs on the malleability of human qualities. Previous research has demonstrated the influence of students' implicit theories on motivation and achievement and has presented successful interventions for students. However, research on teachers'…

Classroom Teacher's Idea Notebook: Try Trivia for Openers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marran, James F.; And Others

1988-01-01

Presents three activities suitable for junior/senior high school social studies. The first demonstrates the use of trivia as a springboard into a lesson, the second shows how a scavenger hunt can be used to teach social studies content, and the third describes a 1-3 day procedure for teaching a jigsaw lesson on modernization in Meiji Japan. (GEA)

Repairing Discordant Student--Teacher Relationships: A Case Study Using Emotion-Focused Therapy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lander, Itzhak

2009-01-01

This article describes the use of emotion-focused therapy (EFT) to reduce conflict in the student-teacher relationship. A case study of a homeroom teacher and a sixth-grade student is presented. This innovative family treatment model is demonstrated to be a useful tool for improving the student-teacher relational system, resulting in amelioration…

The Relationship between Thinking Style Differences and Career Choices for High-Achieving Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Mihyeon

2011-01-01

The intent of this study was to present information about high-achieving students' career decision making associated with thinking styles. We gathered data from two International Baccalaureate (IB) programs and a Governor's School Program with a sample of 209 high-school students. The findings of this study demonstrated that the effect of program…

Beyond Event Segmentation: Spatial- and Social-Cognitive Processes in Verb-to-Action Mapping

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friend, Margaret; Pace, Amy

2011-01-01

The present article investigates spatial- and social-cognitive processes in toddlers' mapping of concepts to real-world events. In 2 studies we explore how event segmentation might lay the groundwork for extracting actions from the event stream and conceptually mapping novel verbs to these actions. In Study 1, toddlers demonstrated the ability to…

Sex Differences in Left-Handedness: A Meta-Analysis of 144 Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Papadatou-Pastou, Marietta; Martin, Maryanne; Munafo, Marcus R.; Jones, Gregory V.

2008-01-01

Human handedness, a marker for language lateralization in the brain, continues to attract great research interest. A widely reported but not universal finding is a greater male tendency toward left-handedness. Here the authors present a meta-analysis of k = 144 studies, totaling N = 1,787,629 participants, the results of which demonstrate that the…

Literacy in Motion: A Case Study of a Shape-Shifting Kindergartener

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Siegel, Marjorie; Kontovourki, Stavroula; Schmier, Stephanie; Enriquez, Grace

2008-01-01

This article presents a case study of a kindergarten girl from a Bangladeshi immigrant family who demonstrates her multiliteracies as she negotiates the multiple demands of the mandated literacy curriculum. The case is drawn from a year-long ethnographic inquiry of the literacy practices and cultural models in a balanced literacy curriculum where…

The Association between Body Mass Index and Sleep in a Predominantly Hispanic College Population

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benham, Grant

2017-01-01

An association between inadequate sleep and body mass index (BMI) has been demonstrated in previous studies, but there is a relative paucity of data from Latino/Hispanic populations. In the present study, 750 college students, 93% of whom were Hispanic, completed an online survey that included standardized measures of sleep quantity, sleep…

What It Takes to Succeed: The Importance of Social Support for Academically Successful Middle School English Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, Lottie L.

2017-01-01

Missing from educational studies on English learners (ELs) is an investigation of those students who succeed beyond minimum standards, defying the achievement gap. The research study presented in this article contributes to this area by examining the experiences and understandings of five middle school ELs who have demonstrated linguistic and…

Probabilistic composite micromechanics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stock, T. A.; Bellini, P. X.; Murthy, P. L. N.; Chamis, C. C.

1988-01-01

Probabilistic composite micromechanics methods are developed that simulate expected uncertainties in unidirectional fiber composite properties. These methods are in the form of computational procedures using Monte Carlo simulation. A graphite/epoxy unidirectional composite (ply) is studied to demonstrate fiber composite material properties at the micro level. Regression results are presented to show the relative correlation between predicted and response variables in the study.

Cross Situational Consistency of Communication Behaviors: A Theoretical Overview, Apprehension, Androgyny, Organizational Relationships: Trust/Satisfaction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phelps, Lynn; And Others

Three studies tested the capability of three measurement instruments to predict a communication behavior across a variety of communication situations. The intent of these related studies was to demonstrate the utility of a self-presentation analysis of the concept of personality, an approach postulating that people strive to create the impression…

Learning Communities for Students in Developmental Reading: An Impact Study at Hillsborough Community College. NCPR Brief

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weiss, Michael J.; Visher, Mary G.; Wathington, Heather

2010-01-01

This Brief, based on a report of the same title, presents results from a rigorous study of a basic learning communities program operated at Hillsborough Community College. Hillsborough, one of six community colleges participating in the National Center for Postsecondary Research's (NCPR) Learning Communities Demonstration, is a large, urban…

Proceedings of the Eighteenth Annual Convention of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies. Theme: Christian Self-Esteem.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Christian Association for Psychological Studies, Grand Rapids, MI.

This volume represents the collection of all papers presented at the convention (April, 1971) of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies, whose theme was "Christian Self-Esteem." Some of the titles include "A Demonstration of an Affective Counseling Technique,""Self-Image and Self-Esteem--A Christian Psychiatric Appraisal,""Concepts of…

Associations between Prolonged Grief Disorder, Depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Anxiety in Rwandan Genocide Survivors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaal, Susanne; Dusingizemungu, Jean-Pierre; Jacob, Nadja; Neuner, Frank; Elbert, Thomas

2012-01-01

A number of studies have demonstrated that symptoms of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) represent a symptom cluster distinct from bereavement-related depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aim of the present study was to confirm and extend these findings using the most recent criteria defining PGD. The authors interviewed…

Regulation of Brain Activity in the Fusiform Face and Parahippocampal Place Areas in 7-11-Year-Old Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vuontela, Virve; Jiang, Ping; Tokariev, Maksym; Savolainen, Petri; Ma, YuanYe; Aronen, Eeva T.; Fontell, Tuija; Liiri, Tiina; Ahlstrom, Matti; Salonen, Oili; Carlson, Synnove

2013-01-01

Developmental studies have demonstrated that cognitive processes such as attention, suppression of interference and memory develop throughout childhood and adolescence. However, little is currently known about the development of top-down control mechanisms and their influence on cognitive performance. In the present study, we used functional…

Are Belief-Based Justifications Associated with Metalinguistic Awareness? A Cross-Sectional Study in School-Age Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spataro, Pietro; Rossi-Arnaud, Clelia; Longobardi, Emiddia

2018-01-01

Previous research has consistently demonstrated that false-belief (FB) understanding correlates with and predicts metalinguistic ability in preschoolers. Surprisingly, however, there is scant evidence on the question of whether this relation persists at later ages. The present cross-sectional study sought to fill this gap by examining the…

Long non-coding RNA HOXD-AS1 promotes tumor progression and predicts poor prognosis in colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Li, Xiang; Zhao, Xinhan; Yang, Binhui; Li, Yuqing; Liu, Tao; Pang, Linyuan; Fan, Zhigang; Ma, Wu; Liu, Zhongqiu; Li, Zeng

2018-07-01

Mounting evidence has indicated that long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNA) serve important roles in tumor development. Previous studies have demonstrated that the lncRNA HOXD cluster antisense RNA 1 (HOXD‑AS1) promotes tumor progression in numerous types of cancer; however, the role of HOXD‑AS1 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. In the present study, the expression levels of HOXD‑AS1 were detected in CRC tissues and cell lines using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, the biological effects of HOXD‑AS1 on CRC were evaluated in vitro by cell counting kit‑8, colony formation and Transwell assays, and in vivo by tumorigenesis and metastasis assays. The results demonstrated that HOXD‑AS1 was upregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines, and that overexpression of HOXD‑AS1 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with CRC. Furthermore, knockdown of HOXD‑AS1 inhibited cell proliferation, cell invasion, epithelial‑mesenchymal transition and stem cell formation in vitro, as well as tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, HOXD‑AS1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA for miR‑217. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that HOXD‑AS1 may promote CRC progression and metastasis by competing for miR‑217. In addition, HOXD‑AS1 may be considered an indicator of prognosis in patients with CRC.

Therapeutic potential of a dual mTORC1/2 inhibitor for the prevention of posterior capsule opacification: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Feng, Hao; Yang, Zhibo; Bai, Xue; Yang, Meirong; Fang, Yuan; Zhang, Xiaonan; Guo, Qiqiang; Ning, Hong

2018-04-01

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) serves a central role in regulating cell growth and survival, and has been demonstrated to be involved in the pathological progression of posterior capsule opacification (PCO). In the present study, the potency of PP242, a novel dual inhibitor of mTOR complex 1/2 (mTORC1/2), in the suppression of the growth of human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) was investigated. Using a Cell Counting Kit‑8 and a wound healing assay, it was demonstrated that PP242 inhibited the proliferation and migration of HLECs. In addition, western blot analysis indicated that PP242 completely inhibited mTORC1 and mTORC2 downstream signaling activities, whereas rapamycin only partially inhibited mTORC1 activity within LECs. Furthermore, PP242 treatment led to an upregulation of the expression levels of p53 and B cell lymphoma‑2 (Bcl‑2)‑associated X and downregulation of Bcl‑2. In addition, flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that PP242 induced the cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, which may have caused apoptosis and induced autophagy within the LECs. The results of the present study suggested that administration of PP242 may potentially offer a novel therapeutic approach for the prevention of PCO.

Beta Peak Frequencies at Rest Correlate with Endogenous GABA+/Cr Concentrations in Sensorimotor Cortex Areas

PubMed Central

Baumgarten, Thomas J.; Oeltzschner, Georg; Hoogenboom, Nienke; Wittsack, Hans-Jörg; Schnitzler, Alfons; Lange, Joachim

2016-01-01

Neuronal oscillatory activity in the beta band (15–30 Hz) is a prominent signal within the human sensorimotor cortex. Computational modeling and pharmacological modulation studies suggest an influence of GABAergic interneurons on the generation of beta band oscillations. Accordingly, studies in humans have demonstrated a correlation between GABA concentrations and power of beta band oscillations. It remains unclear, however, if GABA concentrations also influence beta peak frequencies and whether this influence is present in the sensorimotor cortex at rest and without pharmacological modulation. In the present study, we investigated the relation between endogenous GABA concentration (measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and beta oscillations (measured by magnetoencephalography) at rest in humans. GABA concentrations and beta band oscillations were measured for left and right sensorimotor and occipital cortex areas. A significant positive linear correlation between GABA concentration and beta peak frequency was found for the left sensorimotor cortex, whereas no significant correlations were found for the right sensorimotor and the occipital cortex. The results show a novel connection between endogenous GABA concentration and beta peak frequency at rest. This finding supports previous results that demonstrated a connection between oscillatory beta activity and pharmacologically modulated GABA concentration in the sensorimotor cortex. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that for a predominantly right-handed sample, the correlation between beta band oscillations and endogenous GABA concentrations is evident only in the left sensorimotor cortex. PMID:27258089

MicroRNA-188-3p is involved in sevoflurane anesthesia-induced neuroapoptosis by targeting MDM2

PubMed Central

Wang, Lei; Zheng, Mengliang; Wu, Shuishui; Niu, Zhiqiang

2018-01-01

Sevoflurane is a commonly used inhalation anesthetic. Sevoflurane-induced neuroapoptosis and cognitive impairments in animals are widely reported, however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. The results of the present study demonstrated that sevoflurane anesthesia induced spatial memory impairments in rats, as determined by the Morris water maze test. Mechanistically, the current study demonstrated that sevoflurane administration significantly enhanced the expression of microRNA (miR)-188-3p. Furthermore, inhibition of miR-188-3p using lentiviral miR-188-3p inhibitors attenuated sevoflurane-induced cognitive impairments in rats. The present study also demonstrated that miR-188-3p targeted MDM2 proto-oncogene (MDM2) and negatively regulated the expression of MDM2, as determined by luciferase assays, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Furthermore, decreased abundance of MDM2 following transfection with miR-188-3p mimics was associated with increased stability of p53 protein. Suppression of p53 activity using the specific p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α alleviated sevoflurane-induced neuroapoptosis. These results indicate that the miR-188-3p-MDM2-p53 axis may have a critical role in sevoflurane-induced cognitive dysfunction. Therefore, miR-188-3p may be a potential target for the treatment of sevoflurane-induced cognitive impairment. PMID:29344658

SBSS Demonstrator: A design for efficient demonstration of Space-based Space Surveillance end-to-end capabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Utzmann, Jens; Flohrer, Tim; Schildknecht, Thomas; Wagner, Axel; Silha, Jiri; Willemsen, Philip; Teston, Frederic

This paper presents the capabilities of a Space-Based Space Surveillance (SBSS) demonstration mission for Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) based on a micro-satellite platform. The results have been produced in the frame of ESA’s "Assessment Study for Space Based Space Surveillance Demonstration Mission" performed by the Airbus Defence and Space consortium. Space Surveillance and Tracking is part of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and covers the detection, tracking and cataloguing of space debris and satellites. Derived SST services comprise a catalogue of these man-made objects, collision warning, detection and characterisation of in-orbit fragmentations, sub-catalogue debris characterisation, etc. The assessment of SBSS in a SST system architecture has shown that both an operational SBSS and also already a well-designed space-based demonstrator can provide substantial performance in terms of surveillance and tracking of beyond-LEO objects. Especially the early deployment of a demonstrator, possible by using standard equipment, could boost initial operating capability and create a self-maintained object catalogue. Furthermore, unique statistical information about small-size LEO debris (mm size) can be collected in-situ. Unlike classical technology demonstration missions, the primary goal is the demonstration and optimisation of the functional elements in a complex end-to-end chain (mission planning, observation strategies, data acquisition, processing and fusion, etc.) until the final products can be offered to the users. Also past and current missions by the US (SBV, SBSS) and Canada (Sapphire, NEOSSat) underline the advantages of space-based space surveillance. The presented SBSS system concept takes the ESA SST System Requirements (derived within the ESA SSA Preparatory Program) into account and aims at fulfilling SST core requirements in a stand-alone manner. Additionally, requirments for detection and characterisation of small-sized LEO debris are considered. The evaluation of the concept has shown that an according solution can be implemented with low technological effort and risk. The paper presents details of the system concept, candidate micro-satellite platforms, the observation strategy and the results of performance simulations for space debris coverage and cataloguing accuracy.

Quantification of Hand Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Proof-of-Principle Study Using Inertial and Force Sensors.

PubMed

van den Noort, Josien C; Verhagen, Rens; van Dijk, Kees J; Veltink, Peter H; Vos, Michelle C P M; de Bie, Rob M A; Bour, Lo J; Heida, Ciska T

2017-10-01

This proof-of-principle study describes the methodology and explores and demonstrates the applicability of a system, existing of miniature inertial sensors on the hand and a separate force sensor, to objectively quantify hand motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) in a clinical setting (off- and on-medication condition). Four PD patients were measured in off- and on- dopaminergic medication condition. Finger tapping, rapid hand opening/closing, hand pro/supination, tremor during rest, mental task and kinetic task, and wrist rigidity movements were measured with the system (called the PowerGlove). To demonstrate applicability, various outcome parameters of measured hand motor symptoms of the patients in off- vs. on-medication condition are presented. The methodology described and results presented show applicability of the PowerGlove in a clinical research setting, to objectively quantify hand bradykinesia, tremor and rigidity in PD patients, using a single system. The PowerGlove measured a difference in off- vs. on-medication condition in all tasks in the presented patients with most of its outcome parameters. Further study into the validity and reliability of the outcome parameters is required in a larger cohort of patients, to arrive at an optimal set of parameters that can assist in clinical evaluation and decision-making.

Visual Aid to Demonstrate Change of State and Gas Pressure with Temperature

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ghaffari, Shahrokh

2011-01-01

Demonstrations are used in chemistry lectures to improve conceptual understanding by direct observation. The visual aid described here is designed to demonstrate the change in state of matter with the change of temperature and the change of pressure with temperature. Temperature is presented by the rate of airflow and pressure is presented by…

An Observational Measure of Children's Behavioural Style: Evidence Supporting a Multi-Method Approach to Studying Temperament

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karp, Jennifer; Serbin, Lisa A.; Stack, Dale M.; Schwartzman, Alex E.

2004-01-01

This study demonstrates the potential utility of the Behavioural Style Observational System (BSOS) as a new observational measure of children's behavioural style. The BSOS is an objective, short and easy to use measure that can be readily adapted to a variety of home and laboratory situations. In the present study, 160 mother-child dyads from the…

Is There a Drop in Normative Clearsightedness in Sixth Grade? Study of Internality and Normative Clearsightedness in Fourth to Seventh Graders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bigot, Johann; Pichot, Nathalie; Teste, Benoit

2004-01-01

Numerous studies have demonstrated a decrease in the expression of internality in French sixth graders as compared to fifth graders. The present study examines normative clearsightedness in addition to internality across four French school grades (fourth to seventh). The results confirmed the sixth-grade drop in internality and showed that the…

Predicting High School Completion Using Student Performance in High School Algebra: A Mixed Methods Research Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chiado, Wendy S.

2012-01-01

Too many of our nation's youth have failed to complete high school. Determining why so many of our nation's students fail to graduate is a complex, multi-faceted problem and beyond the scope of any one study. The study presented herein utilized a thirteen-step mixed methods model developed by Leech and Onwuegbuzie (2007) to demonstrate within a…

Kohler's Insight Revisited.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Windholtz, George

1985-01-01

Psychology textbooks frequently present Wolfgang Kohler's two-stick experiment with chimpanzees as having demonstrated insight in learning. Studies that replicated Kohler's work support his findings but not his interpretation in terms of insightful solution. The uncritical inclusion of Kohler's insight interpretation in texts is not warranted in…

Incident Management : Successful Practices : A Cross-Cutting Study : Improving Mobility And Saving Lives

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-08-01

This report presents the test plan for conducting the Traveler Response Analysis for the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) evaluation of the Dallas U.S. 75 Integrated Corridor Management (ICM) Initiative Demonstration. The ICM pro...

An Implementation Plan for NFS at NASA's NAS Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lam, Terance L.; Kutler, Paul (Technical Monitor)

1998-01-01

This document discusses how NASA's NAS can benefit from the Sun Microsystems' Network File System (NFS). A case study is presented to demonstrate the effects of NFS on the NAS supercomputing environment. Potential problems are addressed and an implementation strategy is proposed.

UNITED STATES/GERMAN TECHNICAL BILATERAL AGREEMENT: PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) entered into a Bilateral Agreement in 1990 to study each country's efforts in developing and demonstrating remedial technologies. The bilateral agreement is being impl...

How-To-Do-It: Recombinant DNA Made Easy: I. "Jumping Genes."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomson, Robert G.

1988-01-01

Presents as part I of a two-part series a study involving the intercellular transfer of bacterial DNA that codes for the resistance to antibiotics. Demonstrates to students that such transfers occur. Discusses laboratory procedures, materials and results. (CW)

Impact of Arsenic Treatment Techniques on Distribution Water Quality

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation will summarize the results of the distribution water quality studies (arsenic, lead, and copper) of the demonstration program. The impact of the treatment systems by type of system (adsorptive media, coagulation/filtration, ion exchange, etc) will be shown by co...

Spectral characteristics of wake vortex sound during roll-up

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-12-01

This report presents an analysis of the sound spectra generated by a trailing aircraft vortex during its rolling-up process. The : study demonstrates that a rolling-up vortex could produce low frequency (less than 100 Hz) sound with very high intensi...

Students' Evaluations about Climate Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lombardi, Doug; Brandt, Carol B.; Bickel, Elliot S.; Burg, Colin

2016-01-01

Scientists regularly evaluate alternative explanations of phenomena and solutions to problems. Students should similarly engage in critical evaluation when learning about scientific and engineering topics. However, students do not often demonstrate sophisticated evaluation skills in the classroom. The purpose of the present study was to…

Using Orbital Platforms to Study Planet Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brisset, J.; Colwell, J. E.; Dove, A.; Maukonen, D.

2017-08-01

We will present results from the ISS NanoRocks experiment as well as the design of the Q-PACE CubeSat to demonstrate how orbital miniaturized payloads can be used to collect unprecedented amounts of data on the collision behavior of PPD dust grains.

Studies demonstrate modified T cells effective in treating blood-borne cancers

Cancer.gov

At the 2013 American Society of Hematology meeting in Dec. 2013, James Kochenderfer, M.D., NCI, presented findings from two clinical trials evaluating the use of genetically modified immune system T cells as cancer therapy. These reports represent import

Diesel exhaust worsens cardiac conduction instability in dobutamine-challenged spontaneously hypertensive rats

EPA Science Inventory

This study demonstrated that diesel exhaust worsened arrhythmia and cardiac function during dobutamine (simulated exercise) challenge in normotensive and hypertensive rats. The data presented here are a mathematically-derived indicator of cardiac risk, which can be used for risk ...

Functional characterization of two concrete biofilms using pyrosequencing data

EPA Science Inventory

Phylogenetic studies of concrete biofilms using 16SrRNA-based approaches have demonstrated that concrete surfaces harbor a diverse microbial community. These approaches can provide information on the general taxonomical groups present in a sample but cannot shed light on the func...

Double sac sign and intradecidual sign in early pregnancy: interobserver reliability and frequency of occurrence.

PubMed

Doubilet, Peter M; Benson, Carol B

2013-07-01

To assess the interobserver agreement, frequency of occurrence, and prognostic importance of the double sac sign (DSS), intradecidual sign (IDS), and other sonographic findings in early intrauterine pregnancies. We retrospectively identified all sonograms obtained between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2011, in which: (1) the scan demonstrated an intrauterine fluid collection without a yolk sac or embryo; (2) a follow-up scan confirmed an intrauterine pregnancy; and (3) the first-trimester outcome was known. Each coinvestigator characterized the 199 study sonograms as demonstrating or not demonstrating a DSS or an IDS, based on judgment about whether the scan met published criteria defining these signs. Interobserver agreement was poor for the DSS (κ= 0.24) and IDS (κ= 0.23). Scans frequently demonstrated neither sign: 150 cases (75.4%) if we considered a sign to be present when both investigators graded it as present and 69 cases (34.7%) using the looser criterion that either graded it as present. The presence of a DSS or an IDS was unrelated to the β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) value (P > .05, t test, all comparisons). An inner echogenic ring was present in 158 cases (79.4%), and the decidua was brighter peripherally than centrally in 102 (51.3%). The first-trimester outcome was unrelated to the presence of a DSS or an IDS, presence of an inner echogenic ring, or decidual appearance (P > .05, χ(2), all comparisons). The sonographic appearance of early gestational sacs, before visualization of a yolk sac or embryo, is highly variable. The DSS and IDS are often absent; there is poor interobserver agreement regarding these signs; and the prognosis is unrelated to their presence or absence. A round or oval intrauterine fluid collection in a woman with positive β-hCG should be treated as a gestational sac until proven otherwise, regardless of whether it demonstrates a DSS or an IDS.

Presenting Themselves with Power and Passion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lyne, Heidi

2007-01-01

An "Exhibition" is a demonstration of mastery on many levels. When students prepare and present portfolios of their own work to a public audience, they are demonstrating mastery of more than the traditional academic skills. The process that culminates in the exhibition teaches students to present themselves articulately and powerfully…

Guilt enhances the sense of control and drives risky judgments.

PubMed

Kouchaki, Maryam; Oveis, Christopher; Gino, Francesca

2014-12-01

In the present studies, we investigate the hypothesis that guilt influences risk taking by enhancing one's sense of control. Across multiple inductions of guilt, we demonstrate that experimentally induced guilt enhances optimism about risks for the self (Study 1), preferences for gambles versus guaranteed payoffs (Studies 2, 4, and 6), and the likelihood that one will engage in risk-taking behaviors (Study 5). In addition, we demonstrate that guilt enhances the sense of control over uncontrollable events, an illusory control (Studies 3, 4, and 5), and found that a model with illusory control as a mediator is consistent with the data (Studies 5 and 6). We also found that a model with feelings of guilt as a mediator but not generalized negative affect fits the data (Study 4). Finally, we examined the relative explanatory power of different appraisals and found that appraisals of illusory control best explain the influence of guilt on risk taking (Study 6). These results provide the first empirical demonstration of the influence of guilt on sense of control and risk taking, extend previous theorizing on guilt, and more generally contribute to the understanding of how specific emotions influence cognition and behavior. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Investigation of Asymmetric Thrust Detection with Demonstration in a Real-Time Simulation Testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chicatelli, Amy; Rinehart, Aidan W.; Sowers, T. Shane; Simon, Donald L.

2015-01-01

The purpose of this effort is to develop, demonstrate, and evaluate three asymmetric thrust detection approaches to aid in the reduction of asymmetric thrust-induced aviation accidents. This paper presents the results from that effort and their evaluation in simulation studies, including those from a real-time flight simulation testbed. Asymmetric thrust is recognized as a contributing factor in several Propulsion System Malfunction plus Inappropriate Crew Response (PSM+ICR) aviation accidents. As an improvement over the state-of-the-art, providing annunciation of asymmetric thrust to alert the crew may hold safety benefits. For this, the reliable detection and confirmation of asymmetric thrust conditions is required. For this work, three asymmetric thrust detection methods are presented along with their results obtained through simulation studies. Representative asymmetric thrust conditions are modeled in simulation based on failure scenarios similar to those reported in aviation incident and accident descriptions. These simulated asymmetric thrust scenarios, combined with actual aircraft operational flight data, are then used to conduct a sensitivity study regarding the detection capabilities of the three methods. Additional evaluation results are presented based on pilot-in-the-loop simulation studies conducted in the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) flight simulation testbed. Data obtained from this flight simulation facility are used to further evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the asymmetric thrust detection approaches. Generally, the asymmetric thrust conditions are correctly detected and confirmed.

Combining radiation with autophagy inhibition enhances suppression of tumor growth and angiogenesis in esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Chen, Yongshun; Li, Xiaohong; Guo, Leiming; Wu, Xiaoyuan; He, Chunyu; Zhang, Song; Xiao, Yanjing; Yang, Yuanyuan; Hao, Daxuan

2015-08-01

Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for esophageal cancer; however, tumor resistance to radiation remains a major biological problem. The present study aimed to investigate whether inhibition of autophagy may decrease overall tumor resistance to radiation. The effects of the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) on radiosensitivity were tested in the EC9706 human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line by colony formation assay. Furthermore, the synergistic cytotoxic effects of 3-MA and radiation were assessed in a tumor xenograft model in nude mice. Mechanistic studies were performed using flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. The results of the present study demonstrated that radiation induced an accumulation of autophagosomes and 3-MA effectively inhibited radiation-induced autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy was shown to significantly increase the radiosensitivity of the tumors in vitro and in vivo. The enhancement ratio of sensitization in EC9706 cells was 1.76 when the cells were treated with 10 mM 3-MA, alongside ionizing radiation. In addition, autophagy inhibition increased apoptosis and reduced tumor cell proliferation. The combination of radiation and autophagy inhibition resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volume and vasculature in the murine model. The present study demonstrated in vitro and in vivo that radiation-induced autophagy has a protective effect against cell death, and inhibition of autophagy is able to enhance the radiosensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Combining radiation with autophagy inhibition enhances suppression of tumor growth and angiogenesis in esophageal cancer

PubMed Central

CHEN, YONGSHUN; LI, XIAOHONG; GUO, LEIMING; WU, XIAOYUAN; HE, CHUNYU; ZHANG, SONG; XIAO, YANJING; YANG, YUANYUAN; HAO, DAXUAN

2015-01-01

Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for esophageal cancer; however, tumor resistance to radiation remains a major biological problem. The present study aimed to investigate whether inhibition of autophagy may decrease overall tumor resistance to radiation. The effects of the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) on radiosensitivity were tested in the EC9706 human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line by colony formation assay. Furthermore, the synergistic cytotoxic effects of 3-MA and radiation were assessed in a tumor xenograft model in nude mice. Mechanistic studies were performed using flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. The results of the present study demonstrated that radiation induced an accumulation of autophagosomes and 3-MA effectively inhibited radiation-induced autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy was shown to significantly increase the radiosensitivity of the tumors in vitro and in vivo. The enhancement ratio of sensitization in EC9706 cells was 1.76 when the cells were treated with 10 mM 3-MA, alongside ionizing radiation. In addition, autophagy inhibition increased apoptosis and reduced tumor cell proliferation. The combination of radiation and autophagy inhibition resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volume and vasculature in the murine model. The present study demonstrated in vitro and in vivo that radiation-induced autophagy has a protective effect against cell death, and inhibition of autophagy is able to enhance the radiosensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. PMID:25891159

Investigation of Asymmetric Thrust Detection with Demonstration in a Real-Time Simulation Testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chicatelli, Amy K.; Rinehart, Aidan W.; Sowers, T. Shane; Simon, Donald L.

2016-01-01

The purpose of this effort is to develop, demonstrate, and evaluate three asymmetric thrust detection approaches to aid in the reduction of asymmetric thrust-induced aviation accidents. This paper presents the results from that effort and their evaluation in simulation studies, including those from a real-time flight simulation testbed. Asymmetric thrust is recognized as a contributing factor in several Propulsion System Malfunction plus Inappropriate Crew Response (PSM+ICR) aviation accidents. As an improvement over the state-of-the-art, providing annunciation of asymmetric thrust to alert the crew may hold safety benefits. For this, the reliable detection and confirmation of asymmetric thrust conditions is required. For this work, three asymmetric thrust detection methods are presented along with their results obtained through simulation studies. Representative asymmetric thrust conditions are modeled in simulation based on failure scenarios similar to those reported in aviation incident and accident descriptions. These simulated asymmetric thrust scenarios, combined with actual aircraft operational flight data, are then used to conduct a sensitivity study regarding the detection capabilities of the three methods. Additional evaluation results are presented based on pilot-in-the-loop simulation studies conducted in the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) flight simulation testbed. Data obtained from this flight simulation facility are used to further evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the asymmetric thrust detection approaches. Generally, the asymmetric thrust conditions are correctly detected and confirmed.

Changes in neuropeptide Y receptors and pro-opiomelanocortin in the anorexia (anx/anx) mouse hypothalamus.

PubMed

Broberger, C; Johansen, J; Brismar, H; Johansson, C; Schalling, M; Hökfelt, T

1999-08-15

The pro-opiomelanocortinergic (POMCergic) system originating in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus extends projections widely over the brain and has been shown to be intricately linked and parallel to the arcuate neuropeptide Y (NPY) system. Both NPY and POMC-derived peptides (melanocortins) have been strongly implicated in the control of feeding behavior, with the former exerting orexigenic effects and the latter having anorexigenic properties. Mice homozygous for the lethal anorexia (anx) mutation are hypophagic, emaciated, and exhibit anomalous processing of NPY exclusively in the arcuate nucleus, providing an interesting model to study NPY-POMC interactions. In the present study, several morphological markers were used to investigate the histochemistry and morphology of the POMC system in anx/anx mice. In situ hybridization demonstrated decreased numbers of POMC mRNA-expressing neurons in the anx/anx arcuate nucleus. In parallel, mRNA levels for both the NPY Y1 and Y5 receptors, which are expressed in POMC neurons, were decreased. Also, expression of the NPY Y2 autoreceptor was attenuated. Immunohistochemistry using antibodies against adrenocorticotropic hormone to demonstrate POMC cell bodies, against alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone to demonstrate axonal projections and against the NPY Y1 receptor to demonstrate dendritic arborizations, showed strikingly decreased immunoreactivities for all these markers. The present data suggest that degeneration of the arcuate POMC system is a feature characteristic of the anx/anx mouse. The possible relationship to the NPYergic phenotype of this animal is discussed.

Sensitivity of negative subsequent memory and task-negative effects to age and associative memory performance.

PubMed

de Chastelaine, Marianne; Mattson, Julia T; Wang, Tracy H; Donley, Brian E; Rugg, Michael D

2015-07-01

The present fMRI experiment employed associative recognition to investigate the relationships between age and encoding-related negative subsequent memory effects and task-negative effects. Young, middle-aged and older adults (total n=136) were scanned while they made relational judgments on visually presented word pairs. In a later memory test, the participants made associative recognition judgments on studied, rearranged (items studied on different trials) and new pairs. Several regions, mostly localized to the default mode network, demonstrated negative subsequent memory effects in an across age-group analysis. All but one of these regions also demonstrated task-negative effects, although there was no correlation between the size of the respective effects. Whereas negative subsequent memory effects demonstrated a graded attenuation with age, task-negative effects declined markedly between the young and the middle-aged group, but showed no further reduction in the older group. Negative subsequent memory effects did not correlate with memory performance within any age group. By contrast, in the older group only, task-negative effects predicted later memory performance. The findings demonstrate that negative subsequent memory and task-negative effects depend on dissociable neural mechanisms and likely reflect distinct cognitive processes. The relationship between task-negative effects and memory performance in the older group might reflect the sensitivity of these effects to variations in amount of age-related neuropathology. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: Memory. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[The application of impulse magnetic therapy for the treatment of the patients presenting with lymphedema of the lower extremities].

PubMed

Kulchitskaya, D B; Gerasimenko, M Yu; Aphanova, T V; Konchugova, T V

The principal objective of the present work was to evaluate the influence of impulse magnetic therapy on the state of the microcirculatory system in the patients presenting with lymphedema of the lower extremities. The study included 59 patients with stage of 1 and 2 lymphedema who were divided into two groups. Those comprising the first group had impulse magnetic therapy applied to their lower extremities while the patients making up the second group served as controls. All the patients were examined with the use of the laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) that revealed the initially present pathological changes in the microcirculatory system of their lower extremities. The study has demonstrated that the application of impulse magnetic therapy produced a positive effect on all the constituent components of the microcirculatory blood stream of the patients suffering from lymphedema of the lower extremities. Specifically, the initially increased arteriolar tonus was decreased, the blood flow in the capillary vessels was improved, and congestive phenomena in the venular segments of the microcirculation blood stream were markedly reduced. The results of the LDF examination in the control group gave no evidence of significant changes in the patients' microcirculatory system. The results of the LDF examination of the patients of the control group suggested the absence of any appreciable changes in the microcirculatory system. The present study has demonstrated the advisability of the application of impulse magnetic therapy for the treatment of the patients presenting with lymphedema of the lower extremities as a minimally invasive technique for the evaluation of the condition of the microcirculatory system and the objective assessment of the effectiveness of the outcomes of physiotherapy in the patients with vascular pathology.

RAINBOW LAKE WILDERNESS AND FLYNN LAKE WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, WISCONSIN.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cannon, W.F.; Dunn, Maynard L.

1984-01-01

The Rainbow Lake Wilderness and Flynn Lake Wilderness study area in Wisconsin are contiguous and were studied as a unit. The rainbow Lake Wilderness contains a demonstrated resource of about 210,000 tons of commercial-quality peat in an area of substantiated peat resource potential. The Flynn Lake Wilderness study area contains a demonstrated resource of about 300,000 tons of commercial-quality peat in an area of substantiated peat resource potential. These deposits, however, are of limited importance because larger deposits of similar material are abundant outside the areas, closer to present markets. Rocks in the subsurface contain a low-grade copper resource identified by mining company exploration drilling. Although this is an area of substantiated copper resource potential, it is a low-grade resource, thin and generally at great depth.

The pedagogical toolbox: computer-generated visual displays, classroom demonstration, and lecture.

PubMed

Bockoven, Jerry

2004-06-01

This analogue study compared the effectiveness of computer-generated visual displays, classroom demonstration, and traditional lecture as methods of instruction used to teach neuronal structure and processes. Randomly assigned 116 undergraduate students participated in 1 of 3 classrooms in which they experienced the same content but different teaching approaches presented by 3 different student-instructors. Then participants completed a survey of their subjective reactions and a measure of factual information designed to evaluate objective learning outcomes. Participants repeated this factual measure 5 wk. later. Results call into question the use of classroom demonstration methods as well as the trend towards devaluing traditional lecture in favor of computer-generated visual display.

3-D printed composites with ultrasonically arranged complex microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Llewellyn-Jones, Thomas M.; Drinkwater, Bruce W.; Trask, Richard S.

2016-04-01

This paper demonstrates the efficacy of implementing ultrasonic manipulation within a modified form of stereolithographic 3D printing to form complex microstructures in printed components. Currently 3D printed components are limited both in terms of structural performance and specialised functionality. This study aims to demonstrate a novel method for 3D printing composite materials, by arranging microparticles suspended within a photocurable resin. The resin is selectively cured by a 3-axis gantry-mounted 405nm laser. Ultrasonic forces are used to arrange the microfibres into predetermined patterns within the resin, with unidirectional microfibre alignment and a hexagonal lattice structure demonstrated. An example of dynamic microstructure variation within a single print layer is also presented.

Off-farm applications of solar energy in agriculture

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

Berry, R.E.

1980-01-01

Food processing applications make up almost all present off-farm studies of solar energy in agriculture. Research, development and demonstration projects on solar food processing have shown significant progress over the past 3 years. Projects have included computer simulation and mathematical models, hardware and process development for removing moisture from horticultural or animal products, integration of energy conservation with solar energy augmentation in conventional processes, and commercial scale demonstrations. The demonstration projects include solar heated air for drying prunes and raisins, soy beans and onions/garlic; and solar generated steam for orange juice pasteurization. Several new and planned projects hold considerable promisemore » for commerical exploitation in future food processes.« less

Physiological Parameter Response to Variation of Mental Workload

PubMed Central

Marinescu, Adrian Cornelius; Sharples, Sarah; Ritchie, Alastair Campbell; Sánchez López, Tomas; McDowell, Michael; Morvan, Hervé P.

2017-01-01

Objective: To examine the relationship between experienced mental workload and physiological response by noninvasive monitoring of physiological parameters. Background: Previous studies have examined how individual physiological measures respond to changes in mental demand and subjective reports of workload. This study explores the response of multiple physiological parameters and quantifies their added value when estimating the level of demand. Method: The study presented was conducted in laboratory conditions and required participants to perform a visual-motor task that imposed varying levels of demand. The data collected consisted of physiological measurements (heart interbeat intervals, breathing rate, pupil diameter, facial thermography), subjective ratings of workload (Instantaneous Self-Assessment Workload Scale [ISA] and NASA-Task Load Index), and the performance. Results: Facial thermography and pupil diameter were demonstrated to be good candidates for noninvasive workload measurements: For seven out of 10 participants, pupil diameter showed a strong correlation (R values between .61 and .79 at a significance value of .01) with mean ISA normalized values. Facial thermography measures added on average 47.7% to the amount of variability in task performance explained by a regression model. As with the ISA ratings, the relationship between the physiological measures and performance showed strong interparticipant differences, with some individuals demonstrating a much stronger relationship between workload and performance measures than others. Conclusion: The results presented in this paper demonstrate that physiological and pupil diameter can be used for noninvasive real-time measurement of workload. Application: The methods presented in this article, with current technological capabilities, are better suited for workplaces where the person is seated, offering the possibility of being applied to pilots and air traffic controllers. PMID:28965433

Bionano Interaction Study on Antimicrobial Star-Shaped Peptide Polymer Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Lam, Shu J; Wong, Edgar H H; O'Brien-Simpson, Neil M; Pantarat, Namfon; Blencowe, Anton; Reynolds, Eric C; Qiao, Greg G

2016-12-14

'Structurally nanoengineered antimicrobial peptide polymers' (SNAPPs), in the form of star-shaped peptide polymer nanoparticles, have been recently demonstrated as a new class of antimicrobial agents with superior in vitro and in vivo efficacy against Gram-negative pathogens, including multidrug-resistant species. Herein, we present a detailed bionano interaction study on SNAPPs by assessing their antimicrobial activities against several Gram-negative bacteria in complex biological matrices. Simulated body fluid and animal serum were used as test media to reveal factors that influence the antimicrobial efficacy of SNAPPs. With the exception of Acinetobacter baumannii, the presence of divalent cations at physiological concentrations reduced the antimicrobial efficacy of SNAPPs from minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) within the nanomolar range (40-300 nM) against Escherichia coli, Pseudomanas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae to 0.6-4.7 μM. By using E. coli as a representative bacterial species, we demonstrated that the reduction in activity was due to a decrease in the ability of SNAPPs to cause outer and inner membrane disruption. This effect could be reversed through coadministration with a chelating agent. Interestingly, the potency of SNAPPs against A. baumannii was retained even under high salt concentrations. The presence of serum proteins was also found to affect the interaction of SNAPPs with bacterial membranes, possibly through intermolecular binding. Collectively, this study highlights the need to consider the possible interactions of (bio)molecules present in vivo with any new antimicrobial agent under development. We also demonstrate that outer membrane disruption/destabilization is an important but hitherto under-recognized target for the antimicrobial action of peptide-based agents, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Overall, the findings presented herein could aid in the design of more efficient peptide-based antimicrobial agents with uncompromised potency even under physiological conditions.

Multilevel selected primary prevention of child maltreatment.

PubMed

Peterson, Lizette; Tremblay, George; Ewigman, Bernard; Saldana, Lisa

2003-06-01

Few treatment studies and even fewer primary prevention studies have demonstrated successful reduction of child maltreatment. Successful preventive interventions have often been lengthy and expensive; shorter programs have been didactic and ineffective. The present investigation relied on a 7-level model of successful parenting to mount a time-limited, "selected" prevention effort with high-risk mothers. This program included modeling, role-playing, Socratic dialogue, home practice, and home visits. The study demonstrated effective intervention at every level of the model, including improvements in (a) parenting skills, (b) developmentally appropriate interventions, (c) developmentally appropriate beliefs, (d) negative affect, (e) acceptance of a responsible parent role, (f) acceptance of a nurturing parent role, and (g) self-efficacy. Directions for future research are considered.

Green Infrastructure Research and Demonstration at the Edison Environmental Center

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation will review the need for storm water control practices and will present a portion of the green infrastructure research and demonstration being performed at the Edison Environmental Center.

Review of potential EGS sites and possible EGS demonstration scenarios

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

None

1999-09-01

Review of potential sites for Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and development of reference scenarios for EGS demonstration projects are two sub-tasks included in the FY 1999 EGS Research and Development (R&D) Management Task (DOE Task Order Number DE-AT07-99ID60365, included in the Appendix of this report). These sub-tasks are consistent with the EGS Strategic Plan, which includes milestones relating to EGS site selection (Milestone 4, to be completed in 2004) and development of a cost-shared, pilot-scale demonstration project (Milestone 5, to be completed in 2008). The purpose of the present work is to provide some reference points for discussing what typemore » of EGS projects might be undertaken, where they might be located, and what the associated benefits are likely to be. The review of potential EGS sites is presented in Chapter 2 of this report. It draws upon site-selection criteria (and potential project sites that were identified using those criteria) developed at a mini-workshop held at the April 1998 DOE Geothermal Program Review to discuss EGS R&D issues. The criteria and the sites were the focus of a paper presented at the 4th International Hot Dry Rock Forum in Strasbourg in September 1998 (Sass and Robertson-Tait, 1998). The selection criteria, project sites and possible EGS developments discussed in the workshop and paper are described in more detail herein. Input from geothermal operators is incorporated, and water availability and transmission-line access are emphasized. The reference scenarios for EGS demonstration projects are presented in Chapter 3. Three alternative scenarios are discussed: (1) a stand-alone demonstration plant in an area with no existing geothermal development; (2) a separate generating facility adjacent to an existing geothermal development; and (3) an EGS project that supplies an existing geothermal power plant with additional generating capacity. Furthermore, information potentially useful to DOE in framing solicitations and selecting projects for funding is discussed objectively. Although defined as separate sub-tasks, the EGS site review and reference scenarios are closely related. The incremental approach to EGS development that has recently been adopted could logically be expected to yield proposals for studies that lead up to and include production-enhancement experiments in producing geothermal fields in the very near future. However, the strategic plan clearly calls for the development of a more comprehensive demonstration project that can generate up to perhaps 10 MW (gross). It is anticipated that a series of small-scale experiments will define what realistically may be achieved in the near future, thus setting the stage for a successful pilot demonstration. This report continues the process of presenting information on EGS sites and experiments, and begins the process of defining what a demonstration project might be.« less

Comparison of health literacy in privately insured and public hospital orthopaedic patients.

PubMed

Cosic, Filip; Porter, Tabitha; Norsworthy, Cameron; Price, Rohan; Bedi, Harvinder

2018-05-14

Objective The aim of the present study was to quantify and compare patient health literacy between privately insured and public orthopaedic patients. Methods As part of the present cross-sectional study, elective postoperative orthopaedic patients across two sites were recruited and asked to complete a questionnaire at the first postoperative out-patient review. Patients were divided into three groups: (1) a public group (Public); (2) a private group (Private-pre); and (3) a private group that completed the questionnaire immediately after the out-patient review (Private-post). The questionnaire consisted of six questions regarding surgical management, expected recovery time and postoperative instructions. Patients were further asked to grade their satisfaction regarding information received throughout their management. Results In all, 150 patients completed the questionnaire, 50 in each of the three groups. Patients in the Public, Private-pre and Private-post groups answered a mean 2.74, 3.24 and 4.70 of 6 questions correctly respectively. The Private-pre group was 1.46-fold more likely to demonstrate correct health literacy than the Public group, whereas the Private-post group was 2.44-fold more likely to demonstrate improved health literacy than the Private-pre group. Patient satisfaction with information received was not associated with health literacy. Conclusion Limited health literacy in orthopaedic patients continues to be an area of concern. Both private and public orthopaedic patients demonstrated poor health literacy, but private patients demonstrated significant improvement after the out-patient review. What is known about the topic? Limited health literacy is a growing public health issue worldwide, with previous literature demonstrating a prevalence of low health literacy of 26% and marginal health literacy of 20% among all patient populations. Of concern, limited health literacy has been shown to result in a range of adverse health outcomes, including increased mortality and chronic disease morbidity. It has also been associated with an increased rate of hospitalisation and use of healthcare resources. Previous work in the orthopaedic trauma setting has found poor levels of health literacy and poor understanding of diagnosis, management and prognosis in the Australian public health system. Promisingly, it has been shown that simple, targeted interventions can improve patient health literacy. What does this paper add? This study further highlights that health literacy exhibited by orthopaedic patients is poor, particularly among patients in the public healthcare system. The present study is the first to have demonstrated that health literacy is poor among patients in both the public and private healthcare systems, despite these patients having distinctly different demographics. Promisingly, the present study shows that, unlike public orthopaedic out-patient review, private orthopaedic out-patient review appears to be effective in increasing patient health literacy regarding their orthopaedic condition and its management. What are the implications for practitioners? Health literacy is essential for patients to effectively communicate with doctors and achieve good health outcomes. Healthcare professionals need to be aware that a large proportion of patients have poor health literacy and difficulty understanding health-related information, particularly pertaining to that surrounding diagnosis, management and prognosis. This study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to ensure that they communicate with patients at an appropriate level to ensure patient understanding during the pre-, peri- and postoperative stages of management. Further, healthcare professionals should be aware that there is potential to improve patient health literacy at routine out-patient review, provided that this opportunity is used as an educational resource.

MELODI: Mining Enriched Literature Objects to Derive Intermediates

PubMed Central

Elsworth, Benjamin; Dawe, Karen; Vincent, Emma E; Langdon, Ryan; Lynch, Brigid M; Martin, Richard M; Relton, Caroline; Higgins, Julian P T; Gaunt, Tom R

2018-01-01

Abstract Background The scientific literature contains a wealth of information from different fields on potential disease mechanisms. However, identifying and prioritizing mechanisms for further analytical evaluation presents enormous challenges in terms of the quantity and diversity of published research. The application of data mining approaches to the literature offers the potential to identify and prioritize mechanisms for more focused and detailed analysis. Methods Here we present MELODI, a literature mining platform that can identify mechanistic pathways between any two biomedical concepts. Results Two case studies demonstrate the potential uses of MELODI and how it can generate hypotheses for further investigation. First, an analysis of ETS-related gene ERG and prostate cancer derives the intermediate transcription factor SP1, recently confirmed to be physically interacting with ERG. Second, examining the relationship between a new potential risk factor for pancreatic cancer identifies possible mechanistic insights which can be studied in vitro. Conclusions We have demonstrated the possible applications of MELODI, including two case studies. MELODI has been implemented as a Python/Django web application, and is freely available to use at [www.melodi.biocompute.org.uk]. PMID:29342271

Sodium citrate inhibits the proliferation of human gastric adenocarcinoma epithelia cells

PubMed Central

Xia, Yuan; Zhang, Xulong; Bo, Agula; Sun, Juan; Li, Minhui

2018-01-01

The objective of the present study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of sodium citrate on human gastric adenocarcinoma epithelia AGS cells. Numerous cytotoxicity-associated sodium citrate-induced effects were assessed, including cell viability and proliferation, cytokine expression and caspase activity. In vitro studies demonstrated that incubation with sodium citrate (>3.125 mM) inhibited AGS cell viability and proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Incubation with sodium citrate for 24 h revealed that the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor increased with an increasing of dose of sodium citrate, whereas the IL-6 levels exhibited only a slight alteration. In addition, increases in caspase-3 and −9 activities were associated with increased duration of treatment and dosage of sodium citrate. Collectively, the results of the present study demonstrated that treatment with sodium citrate at higher concentrations or for longer durations exerts a cytotoxic effect on AGS cells via the induction of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway and the alteration in the levels of certain cytokines. PMID:29616124

Intramyocardial injection of autologous bone marrow-derived ex vivo expanded mesenchymal stem cells in acute myocardial infarction patients is feasible and safe up to 5 years of follow-up.

PubMed

Rodrigo, Sander F; van Ramshorst, Jan; Hoogslag, Georgette E; Boden, Helèn; Velders, Matthijs A; Cannegieter, Suzanne C; Roelofs, Helene; Al Younis, Imad; Dibbets-Schneider, Petra; Fibbe, Willem E; Zwaginga, Jaap Jan; Bax, Jeroen J; Schalij, Martin J; Beeres, Saskia L; Atsma, Douwe E

2013-10-01

In experimental studies, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) models has been associated with enhanced neovascularization and myogenesis. Clinical data however, are scarce. Therefore, the present study evaluates the safety and feasibility of intramyocardial MSC injection in nine patients, shortly after AMI during short-term and 5-year follow-up. Periprocedural safety analysis demonstrated one transient ischemic attack. No other adverse events related to MSC treatment were observed during 5-year follow-up. Clinical events were compared to a nonrandomized control group comprising 45 matched controls. A 5-year event-free survival after MSC-treatment was comparable to controls (89 vs. 91 %, P = 0.87). Echocardiographic imaging for evaluation of left ventricular function demonstrated improvements up to 5 years after MSC treatment. These findings were not significantly different when compared to controls. The present safety and feasibility study suggest that intramyocardial injection of MSC in patients shortly after AMI is feasible and safe up to 5-year follow-up.

Docosahexaenoic acid inhibits the growth of hormone-dependent prostate cancer cells by promoting the degradation of the androgen receptor.

PubMed

Hu, Zhimei; Qi, Haixia; Zhang, Ruixue; Zhang, Kun; Shi, Zhemin; Chang, Yanan; Chen, Linfeng; Esmaeili, Mohsen; Baniahmad, Aria; Hong, Wei

2015-09-01

Epidemiological and preclinical data have demonstrated the preventative effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on prostate cancer. However, there are inconsistencies in these previous studies and the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In the present study, the androgen receptor (AR), which is a transcription factor involved in cell proliferation and prostate carcinogenesis, was identified as a target of DHA. It was revealed that DHA inhibited hormone‑dependent growth of LNCaP prostate cancer cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that treatment with DHA caused no alteration in the transcribed mRNA expression levels of the AR gene. However, immunoblotting revealed that this treatment reduces the protein expression level of the AR. The androgen‑induced genes were subsequently repressed by treatment with DHA. It was demonstrated that DHA exhibits no effect on the translation process of the AR, however, it promotes the proteasome‑mediated degradation of the AR. Therefore, the present study provided a novel mechanism by which DHA exhibits an inhibitory effect on growth of prostate cancer cells.

Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis and Treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Older Adults: A Review of the Evidence and its Implications for Clinical Care.

PubMed

Goodman, David W; Mitchell, Sara; Rhodewalt, Lauren; Surman, Craig B H

2016-01-01

Although previously considered a disorder of childhood, studies in the last decade have demonstrated that attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) continues to impair function into adulthood and responds to pharmacotherapy. Due to age-specific changes in roles and challenges, it is possible that presentation and response to intervention may differ between older and younger adults. A literature search for papers that identified older adults with ADHD, including papers describing its epidemiology, manifestation, and treatment, was the basis for this paper. There is a paucity of data on ADHD in older adults; however, small observational studies have characterized the presence, impact, and treatment of ADHD in adults over the age of 50 years, and larger epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that ADHD symptoms exist in older adulthood. Optimal criteria for diagnosis of ADHD and methods of treating ADHD in older individuals have not been systematically explored. In light of the limited data, this review discusses considerations for differential diagnosis and safe pharmacotherapy of ADHD in older adults.

Ginsenoside Rh2 enhances the antitumor immunological response of a melanoma mice model.

PubMed

Wang, Meng; Yan, Shi-Ju; Zhang, Hong-Tao; Li, Nan; Liu, Tao; Zhang, Ying-Long; Li, Xiao-Xiang; Ma, Qiong; Qiu, Xiu-Chun; Fan, Qing-Yu; Ma, Bao-An

2017-02-01

The treatment of malignant tumors following surgery is important in preventing relapse. Among all the post-surgery treatments, immunomodulators have demonstrated satisfactory effects on preventing recurrence according to recent studies. Ginsenoside is a compound isolated from panax ginseng, which is a famous traditional Chinese medicine. Ginsenoside aids in killing tumor cells through numerous processes, including the antitumor processes of ginsenoside Rh2 and Rg1, and also affects the inflammatory processes of the immune system. However, the role that ginsenoside serves in antitumor immunological activity remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the effect of ginsenoside Rh2 on the antitumor immunological response. With a melanoma mice model, ginsenoside Rh2 was demonstrated to inhibit tumor growth and improved the survival time of the mice. Ginsenoside Rh2 enhanced T-lymphocyte infiltration in the tumor and triggered cytotoxicity in spleen lymphocytes. In addition, the immunological response triggered by ginsenoside Rh2 could be transferred to other mice. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence that ginsenoside Rh2 treatment enhanced the antitumor immunological response, which may be a potential therapy for melanoma.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of the First Dual Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase I (Tdp1) - Topoisomerase I (Top1) Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Trung Xuan; Morrell, Andrew; Conda-Sheridan, Martin; Marchand, Christophe; Agama, Keli; Bermingam, Alun; Stephen, Andrew G.; Chergui, Adel; Naumova, Alena; Fisher, Robert; O’Keefe, Barry R.; Pommier, Yves; Cushman, Mark

2012-01-01

Substances with dual tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase I - topoisomerase I inhibitory activity in one low molecular weight compound would constitute a unique class of anticancer agents that could potentially have significant advantages over drugs that work against the individual enzymes. The present study demonstrates the successful synthesis and evaluation of the first dual Top1-Tdp1 inhibitors, which are based on the indenoisoquinoline chemotype. One bis(indenoisoquinoline) had significant activity against human Tdp1 (IC50 = 1.52 ± 0.05 μM), and it was also equipotent to camptothecin as a Top1 inhibitor. Significant insights into enzyme-drug interactions were gained via structure-activity relationship studies of the series. The present results also document the failure of the previously reported sulfonyl ester pharmacophore to confer Tdp1 inhibition in this indenoisoquinoline class of inhibitors, even though it was demonstrated to work well for the steroid NSC 88915 (7). The current study will facilitate future efforts to optimize dual Top1-Tdp1 inhibitors. PMID:22536944

Clouds in a Bottle: Qualitative and Quantiative Demonstrations for Cloud Formation in a Learning Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ellis, T. D.

2015-12-01

The NASA CloudSat mission has been revealing the inner secrets of clouds since 2006 using its one-of-a-kind spaceborne cloud radar. During its mission, the CloudSat Education Network, consisting of schools in Asia, Europe, and North America, have been collecting data on Clouds when CloudSat passes overhead. The education team has spent many hours researching and presenting different methods for making clouds for demonstrations in formal and informal settings. In this presentation, we will present several variations on methods for doing the cloud in a bottle demonstration, including strengths and weaknesses for each, and a brief overview of the science involved in the various demonstrations.

Improving the Isotretinoin Photostability by Incorporating in Microemulsion Matrix

PubMed Central

Patel, Mrunali R.; Patel, Rashmin B.; Parikh, Jolly R.; Patel, Bharat G.

2011-01-01

The present paper demonstrates the increased photostability of isotretinoin when loaded in microemulsion. The photodegradation of isotretinoin, in methanol and microemulsion formulation was studied under direct sun light. The photodegradation process was monitored by UV spectrophotometry. In methanol solution, isotretinoin undergoes complete photodegradation just within a few minutes of light exposure. Isotretinoin incorporated in microemulsion formulation showed an increased stability in comparison to the methanol solutions. In particular for isotretinoin, a residual concentration of 75% was still present after a light irradiance versus a residual value of just 16% measured at the same time in methanol solution. Further, degradation kinetic parameters of isotretinoin-loaded microemulsion formulation were demonstrated increase isotretinoin half-life about five-times in comparison with a methanol solution under a direct sun light. PMID:22389863

Human Skin 3D Bioprinting Using Scaffold-Free Approach.

PubMed

Pourchet, Léa J; Thepot, Amélie; Albouy, Marion; Courtial, Edwin J; Boher, Aurélie; Blum, Loïc J; Marquette, Christophe A

2017-02-01

Organ in vitro synthesis is one of the last bottlenecks between tissue engineering and transplantation of synthetic organs. Bioprinting has proven its capacity to produce 3D objects composed of living cells but highly organized tissues such as full thickness skin (dermis + epidermis) are rarely attained. The focus of the present study is to demonstrate the capability of a newly developed ink formulation and the use of an open source printer, for the production of a really complete skin model. Proofs are given through immunostaining and electronic microscopy that the bioprinted skin presents all characteristics of human skin, both at the molecular and macromolecular level. Finally, the printability of large skin objects is demonstrated with the printing of an adult-size ear. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Seasonal forecast of St. Louis encephalitis virus transmission, Florida.

PubMed

Shaman, Jeffrey; Day, Jonathan F; Stieglitz, Marc; Zebiak, Stephen; Cane, Mark

2004-05-01

Disease transmission forecasts can help minimize human and domestic animal health risks by indicating where disease control and prevention efforts should be focused. For disease systems in which weather-related variables affect pathogen proliferation, dispersal, or transmission, the potential for disease forecasting exists. We present a seasonal forecast of St. Louis encephalitis virus transmission in Indian River County, Florida. We derive an empiric relationship between modeled land surface wetness and levels of SLEV transmission in humans. We then use these data to forecast SLEV transmission with a seasonal lead. Forecast skill is demonstrated, and a real-time seasonal forecast of epidemic SLEV transmission is presented. This study demonstrates how weather and climate forecast skill-verification analyses may be applied to test the predictability of an empiric disease forecast model.

Seasonal Forecast of St. Louis Encephalitis Virus Transmission, Florida

PubMed Central

Day, Jonathan F.; Stieglitz, Marc; Zebiak, Stephen; Cane, Mark

2004-01-01

Disease transmission forecasts can help minimize human and domestic animal health risks by indicating where disease control and prevention efforts should be focused. For disease systems in which weather-related variables affect pathogen proliferation, dispersal, or transmission, the potential for disease forecasting exists. We present a seasonal forecast of St. Louis encephalitis virus transmission in Indian River County, Florida. We derive an empirical relationship between modeled land surface wetness and levels of SLEV transmission in humans. We then use these data to forecast SLEV transmission with a seasonal lead. Forecast skill is demonstrated, and a real-time seasonal forecast of epidemic SLEV transmission is presented. This study demonstrates how weather and climate forecast skill verification analyses may be applied to test the predictability of an empirical disease forecast model. PMID:15200812

Phase Domain Walls in Weakly Nonlinear Deep Water Surface Gravity Waves.

PubMed

Tsitoura, F; Gietz, U; Chabchoub, A; Hoffmann, N

2018-06-01

We report a theoretical derivation, an experimental observation and a numerical validation of nonlinear phase domain walls in weakly nonlinear deep water surface gravity waves. The domain walls presented are connecting homogeneous zones of weakly nonlinear plane Stokes waves of identical amplitude and wave vector but differences in phase. By exploiting symmetry transformations within the framework of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation we demonstrate the existence of exact analytical solutions representing such domain walls in the weakly nonlinear limit. The walls are in general oblique to the direction of the wave vector and stationary in moving reference frames. Experimental and numerical studies confirm and visualize the findings. Our present results demonstrate that nonlinear domain walls do exist in the weakly nonlinear regime of general systems exhibiting dispersive waves.

The effectiveness of intervention on the behavior of individuals with autism: a meta-analysis using percentage of data points exceeding the median of baseline phase (PEM).

PubMed

Ma, Hsen-Hsing

2009-05-01

The aim of the present study is to demonstrate the percentage of data points exceeding the median of baseline phase (PEM) approach using data on autism treatment for illustrative purposes to compare the effectiveness of different interventions on the problem behaviors of individuals with autism. Electronic databases such as The ProQuest and Google were searched. A total of 163 articles were located, producing 1,502 effect sizes. The results demonstrate that five highly effective intervention strategies were priming, self-control, training, positive reinforcement and punishment, and presenting preferential activities. The least effective strategy was to teach perspective-taking skills. The PEM approach is recommended for use in meta-analysis for single-case experimental designs.

Phase Domain Walls in Weakly Nonlinear Deep Water Surface Gravity Waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsitoura, F.; Gietz, U.; Chabchoub, A.; Hoffmann, N.

2018-06-01

We report a theoretical derivation, an experimental observation and a numerical validation of nonlinear phase domain walls in weakly nonlinear deep water surface gravity waves. The domain walls presented are connecting homogeneous zones of weakly nonlinear plane Stokes waves of identical amplitude and wave vector but differences in phase. By exploiting symmetry transformations within the framework of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation we demonstrate the existence of exact analytical solutions representing such domain walls in the weakly nonlinear limit. The walls are in general oblique to the direction of the wave vector and stationary in moving reference frames. Experimental and numerical studies confirm and visualize the findings. Our present results demonstrate that nonlinear domain walls do exist in the weakly nonlinear regime of general systems exhibiting dispersive waves.

Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells From Hypertensive Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Advance Hypertension Pharmacogenomics.

PubMed

Biel, Nikolett M; Santostefano, Katherine E; DiVita, Bayli B; El Rouby, Nihal; Carrasquilla, Santiago D; Simmons, Chelsey; Nakanishi, Mahito; Cooper-DeHoff, Rhonda M; Johnson, Julie A; Terada, Naohiro

2015-12-01

Studies in hypertension (HTN) pharmacogenomics seek to identify genetic sources of variable antihypertensive drug response. Genetic association studies have detected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that link to drug responses; however, to understand mechanisms underlying how genetic traits alter drug responses, a biological interface is needed. Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a potential source for studying otherwise inaccessible tissues that may be important to antihypertensive drug response. The present study established multiple iPSC lines from an HTN pharmacogenomics cohort. We demonstrated that established HTN iPSCs can robustly and reproducibly differentiate into functional vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), a cell type most relevant to vasculature tone control. Moreover, a sensitive traction force microscopy assay demonstrated that iPSC-derived VSMCs show a quantitative contractile response on physiological stimulus of endothelin-1. Furthermore, the inflammatory chemokine tumor necrosis factor α induced a typical VSMC response in iPSC-derived VSMCs. These studies pave the way for a large research initiative to decode biological significance of identified SNPs in hypertension pharmacogenomics. Treatment of hypertension remains suboptimal, and a pharmacogenomics approach seeks to identify genetic biomarkers that could be used to guide treatment decisions; however, it is important to understand the biological underpinnings of genetic associations. Mouse models do not accurately recapitulate individual patient responses based on their genetics, and hypertension-relevant cells are difficult to obtain from patients. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology provides a great interface to bring patient cells with their genomic data into the laboratory and to study hypertensive responses. As an initial step, the present study established an iPSC bank from patients with primary hypertension and demonstrated an effective and reproducible method of generating functional vascular smooth muscle cells. ©AlphaMed Press.

Antigen delivery by α2-macroglobulin enhances the cytotoxic T lymphocyte response

PubMed Central

Bowers, Edith V.; Horvath, Jeffrey J.; Bond, Jennifer E.; Cianciolo, George J.; Pizzo, Salvatore V.

2009-01-01

α2M* targets antigens to APCs for rapid internalization, processing, and presentation. When used as an antigen-delivery vehicle, α2M* amplifies MHC class II presentation, as demonstrated by increased antibody titers. Recent evidence, however, suggests that α2M* encapsulation may also enhance antigen-specific CTL immunity. In this study, we demonstrate that α2M*-delivered antigen (OVA) enhances the production of specific in vitro and in vivo CTL responses. Murine splenocytes expressing a transgenic TCR specific for CTL peptide OVA257–264 (SIINFEKL) demonstrated up to 25-fold greater IFN-γ and IL-2 secretion when treated in vitro with α2M*-OVA compared with soluble OVA. The frequency of IFN-γ-producing cells was increased ∼15-fold, as measured by ELISPOT. Expansion of the OVA-specific CD8+ T cell population, as assayed by tetramer binding and [3H]thymidine incorporation, and OVA-specific cell-mediated cytotoxicity, as determined by a flow cytometric assay, were also enhanced significantly by α2M*-OVA. Furthermore, significant CTL responses were observed at antigen doses tenfold lower than those required with OVA alone. Finally, we also observed enhanced humoral and CTL responses by naïve mice following intradermal immunization with α2M*-OVA. These α2M*-OVA-immunized mice demonstrated increased protection against a s.c.-implanted, OVA-expressing tumor, as demonstrated by delayed tumor growth and prolonged animal survival. The observation that α2M*-mediated antigen delivery elicits specific CTL responses suggests the cross-presentation of antigen onto MHC class I. These results support α2M* as an effective antigen-delivery system that may be particularly useful for vaccines based on weakly immunogenic subunits or requiring dose sparing. PMID:19652028

Advanced glycation end products influence oral cancer cell survival via Bcl-xl and Nrf-2 regulation in vitro.

PubMed

Ko, Shun-Yao; Ko, Hshin-An; Shieh, Tzong-Ming; Chi, Tzong-Cherng; Chen, Hong-I; Chen, Yi-Ting; Yu, Ya-Hui; Yang, Shu-Han; Chang, Shu-Shing

2017-05-01

An irreversible non-enzymatic reaction between carbohydrates and proteins results in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs have been demonstrated to be a risk factor of complications in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Previous studies have suggested that patients with DM exhibit a higher rate of metastasis of oral cancer and a lower cancer-associated survival rate. The receptor for AGEs (RAGE) has been associated with angiogenesis and an increase in cancer malignancy. Previous studies have suggested that AGE-RAGE regulates cell migration via extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) is associated with the regulation of tumor protein p53 (p53) and the apoptotic response of oral cancer cells. AGEs are associated with oral cancer; however, the mechanism underlying this association remains to be elucidated. The present study hypothesized that AGEs regulate Nrf-2 and downstream pathways through ERK phosphorylation. The results of the current study demonstrated that AGEs inhibit the expression of Nrf-2, p53 and Bcl-2 associated × apoptosis regulator, and increase the expression of apoptosis regulator Bcl-x protein. The effect of AGEs was inhibited through the use of the PD98059. The present study demonstrated that AGEs regulate the downstream pathways Nrf-2 and Bcl-xl via ERK phosphorylation. It is suggested that AGEs regulate the survival of oral cancer cells via Nrf-2 and Bcl-xl through p53 regulation, which explains the poor prognosis of patients with DM who have oral cancer.

Exploring the Inner Edge of the Habitable Zone with Fully Coupled Oceans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Way, M.J; Del Genio, A.D.; Kelley, M.; Aleinov, I.; Clune, T.

2015-01-01

The role of rotation in planetary atmospheres plays an important role in regulating atmospheric and oceanic heat flow, cloud formation and precipitation. Using the Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) three dimension General Circulation Model (3D-GCM) we demonstrate how varying rotation rate and increasing the incident solar flux on a planet are related to each other and may allow the inner edge of the habitable zone to be much closer than many previous habitable zone studies have indicated. This is shown in particular for fully coupled ocean runs -- some of the first that have been utilized in this context. Results with a 100m mixed layer depth and our fully coupled ocean runs are compared with those of Yang et al. 2014, which demonstrates consistency across models. However, there are clear differences for rotations rates of 1-16x present earth day lengths between the mixed layer and fully couple ocean models, which points to the necessity of using fully coupled oceans whenever possible. The latter was recently demonstrated quite clearly by Hu & Yang 2014 in their aquaworld study with a fully coupled ocean when compared with similar mixed layer ocean studies and by Cullum et al. 2014. Atmospheric constituent amounts were also varied alongside adjustments to cloud parameterizations (results not shown here). While the latter have an effect on what a planet's global mean temperature is once the oceans reach equilibrium they do not qualitatively change the overall relationship between the globally averaged surface temperature and incident solar flux for rotation rates ranging from 1 to 256 times the present Earth day length. At the same time this study demonstrates that given the lack of knowledge about the atmospheric constituents and clouds on exoplanets there is still a large uncertainty as to where a planet will sit in a given star's habitable zone.

A Pilot Study Assessing Performance and Visual Attention of Teenagers with ASD in a Novel Adaptive Driving Simulator.

PubMed

Wade, Joshua; Weitlauf, Amy; Broderick, Neill; Swanson, Amy; Zhang, Lian; Bian, Dayi; Sarkar, Medha; Warren, Zachary; Sarkar, Nilanjan

2017-11-01

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), compared to typically-developed peers, may demonstrate behaviors that are counter to safe driving. The current work examines the use of a novel simulator in two separate studies. Study 1 demonstrates statistically significant performance differences between individuals with (N = 7) and without ASD (N = 7) with regards to the number of turning-related driving errors (p < 0.01). Study 2 shows that both the performance-based feedback group (N = 9) and combined performance- and gaze-sensitive feedback group (N = 8) achieved statistically significant reductions in driving errors following training (p < 0.05). These studies are the first to present results of fine-grained measures of visual attention of drivers and an adaptive driving intervention for individuals with ASD.

A New Lagrangian Relaxation Method Considering Previous Hour Scheduling for Unit Commitment Problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khorasani, H.; Rashidinejad, M.; Purakbari-Kasmaie, M.; Abdollahi, A.

2009-08-01

Generation scheduling is a crucial challenge in power systems especially under new environment of liberalization of electricity industry. A new Lagrangian relaxation method for unit commitment (UC) has been presented for solving generation scheduling problem. This paper focuses on the economical aspect of UC problem, while the previous hour scheduling as a very important issue is studied. In this paper generation scheduling of present hour has been conducted by considering the previous hour scheduling. The impacts of hot/cold start-up cost have been taken in to account in this paper. Case studies and numerical analysis presents significant outcomes while it demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Facebook Addiction Disorder (FAD) among German students-A longitudinal approach.

PubMed

Brailovskaia, Julia; Margraf, Jürgen

2017-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate Facebook Addiction Disorder (FAD) in a German student sample over a period of one year. While mean FAD level did not increase during the investigation period, a significant increase was shown in the number of participants reaching the critical cutoff score. FAD was significantly positively related to the personality trait narcissism and to negative mental health variables (depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms). Furthermore, FAD fully mediated the significant positive relationship between narcissism and stress symptoms, which demonstrates that narcissistic people can be specifically at risk to develop FAD. Present results give a first overview of FAD in Germany. Practical applications for future studies and limitations of present results are discussed.

Using electrophysiology to demonstrate that cuing affects long-term memory storage over the short term

PubMed Central

Maxcey, Ashleigh M.; Fukuda, Keisuke; Song, Won S.; Woodman, Geoffrey F.

2015-01-01

As researchers who study working memory, we often assume that participants keep a representation of an object in working memory when we present a cue that indicates that object will be tested in a couple of seconds. This intuitively accounts for how well people can remember a cued object relative to their memory for that same object presented without a cue. However, it is possible that this superior memory does not purely reflect storage of the cued object in working memory. We tested the hypothesis that cued presented during a stream of objects, followed by a short retention interval and immediate memory test, change how information is handled by long-term memory. We tested this hypothesis using a family of frontal event-related potentials (ERPs) believed to reflect long-term memory storage. We found that these frontal indices of long-term memory were sensitive to the task relevance of objects signaled by auditory cues, even when objects repeat frequently such that proactive interference was high. Our findings indicate the problematic nature of assuming process purity in the study of working memory, and demonstrate how frequent stimulus repetitions fail to isolate the role of working memory mechanisms. PMID:25604772

Using electrophysiology to demonstrate that cueing affects long-term memory storage over the short term.

PubMed

Maxcey, Ashleigh M; Fukuda, Keisuke; Song, Won S; Woodman, Geoffrey F

2015-10-01

As researchers who study working memory, we often assume that participants keep a representation of an object in working memory when we present a cue that indicates that the object will be tested in a couple of seconds. This intuitively accounts for how well people can remember a cued object, relative to their memory for that same object presented without a cue. However, it is possible that this superior memory does not purely reflect storage of the cued object in working memory. We tested the hypothesis that cues presented during a stream of objects, followed by a short retention interval and immediate memory test, can change how information is handled by long-term memory. We tested this hypothesis by using a family of frontal event-related potentials believed to reflect long-term memory storage. We found that these frontal indices of long-term memory were sensitive to the task relevance of objects signaled by auditory cues, even when the objects repeated frequently, such that proactive interference was high. Our findings indicate the problematic nature of assuming process purity in the study of working memory, and demonstrate that frequent stimulus repetitions fail to isolate the role of working memory mechanisms.

Benefit Indicators for Flood Regulation Services of Wetlands: A Modeling Approach

EPA Science Inventory

This report describes a method for developing indicators of the benefits of flood regulation services of wetlands and presents a companion case study. We demonstrate our approach through an application to the Woonasquatucket River watershed in northern Rhode Island. This work is ...

Gender Differences in Mental Simulation during Sentence and Word Processing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wassenburg, Stephanie I.; de Koning, Björn B.; de Vries, Meinou H.; Boonstra, A. Marije; van der Schoot, Menno

2017-01-01

Text comprehension requires readers to mentally simulate the described situation by reactivating previously acquired sensory and motor information from (episodic) memory. Drawing upon research demonstrating gender differences, favouring girls, in tasks involving episodic memory retrieval, the present study explores whether gender differences exist…

Pitfalls in Teaching Judgment Heuristics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shepperd, James A.; Koch, Erika J.

2005-01-01

Demonstrations of judgment heuristics typically focus on how heuristics can lead to poor judgments. However, exclusive focus on the negative consequences of heuristics can prove problematic. We illustrate the problem with the representativeness heuristic and present a study (N = 45) that examined how examples influence understanding of the…

Lighting and vegetation for energy-efficient and safe roadway travel : final report (1,015.15 KB)

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-05-01

The objective of the present study was to identify and evaluate promising approaches to incorporating : lighting and vegetation along roadways with the purpose of identifying the most promising application that : could be incorporated into a demonstr...

Principals as Classroom Leaders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunting, Carolyn

2007-01-01

The author suggests five ways in which busy principals can indirectly demonstrate their classroom leadership by encouraging teacher specialization, giving teachers opportunities to present case studies of at-risk students, building a diverse intellectual climate, instituting an idea exchange, and scheduling time for teachers to openly discuss a…

Meaningful Gamification in an Industrial/Organizational Psychology Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stansbury, Jessica A.; Earnest, David R.

2017-01-01

Motivation and game research continue to demonstrate that the implementation of game design characteristics in the classroom can be engaging and intrinsically motivating. The present study assessed the extent to which an industrial organizational psychology course designed learning environment created with meaningful gamification elements can…

Introscopy in nano- and mesoscopic physics: Single electronics and quantum ballistics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tkachenko, V. A.; Tkachenko, O. A.; Kvon, Z. D.; Latyshev, A. V.; Aseev, A. L.

2016-09-01

A method is presented to be used in a computational experiment aimed at studying the internal structure of nano- and mesoscopic objects, i.e., conducting subsystems and quantum phenomena in solid submicron objects, which demonstrate an individual behavior of low-temperature resistance.

Associations between Temperament and Social Responsiveness in Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salley, Brenda; Miller, Angela; Bell, Martha Ann

2013-01-01

Recent research has demonstrated that social responsiveness (comprised of social awareness, social information processing, reciprocal social communication, social motivation, and repetitive/restricted interests) is continuously distributed within the general population. In the present study, we consider temperament as a co-occurring source of…

Temporal Relatedness: Personality and Behavioral Correlates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Getsinger, Stephen H.

1975-01-01

Two studies explored the relationship of temporal relatedness to self actualization, sex, and certain temporal behaviors. Subjects who obtained higher time-relatedness scores demonstrated greater self-actualization, evaluated the present time mode more positively, overestimated time intervals in an estimation task, and performed less accurately in…

Task-Oriented Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kanis, Ira B.

1992-01-01

In 1985, participants in the Second International Science Study developed and evaluated hands-on problem-solving activities and gave students the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of science process skills. Six evaluation stations for fifth and sixth graders are presented: Blowing in a Liquid, Compare and Contrast, Electrical Circuit, Hot and…

Maturation of Executive Functioning Skills in Early Sequential Bilingualism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalashnikova, Marina; Mattock, Karen

2014-01-01

Previous research has demonstrated that being bilingual from birth is advantageous for the development of skills of social cognition, executive functioning, and metalinguistic awareness due to bilingual children's extensive experience of processing and manipulating two linguistic systems. The present study investigated whether these cognitive…

How Nonclinical Are Community Samples?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thurston, Idia B.; Curley, Jessica; Fields, Sherecce; Kamboukos, Dimitra; Rojas, Ariz; Phares, Vicky

2008-01-01

Mental health services are underutilized in our society by both adults and children. This finding presents a potential problem for researchers conducting community-based research. Previous studies have demonstrated that community-based researchers frequently do not screen participants for the presence of psychopathology nor do they ascertain…

Vectors and Fomites: An Investigative Laboratory for Undergraduates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adamo, Joseph A.; Gealt, Michael A.

1996-01-01

Presents a laboratory model system for introductory microbiology students that involves hands-on studies of bacteria vectored in soil nematodes. Describes a series of experiments designed to demonstrate vector-fomite transmission, bacterial survival, and disinfectant activity. Introduces the concept of genetically engineered microorganisms and the…

Predicting School Performance with the Early Screening Inventory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meisels, Samuel J.; And Others

1984-01-01

Proposes criteria for defining and selecting preschool developmental screening instruments and describes the Early Screening Inventory (ESI), a developmental screening instrument designed to satisfy these criteria. Presents results of several studies demonstrating that the ESI predicts school performance with moderate to excellent accuracy through…

Response-Contingent Taste-Aversion in Treating Chronic Ruminative Vomiting of Institutionalised Profoundly Retarded Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marholin, D., II; And Others

1980-01-01

Two case studies are presented illustrating how the treatment program eliminated rumination with effects maintained 1 to 9 months following treatment, and how substantial weight gain was also demonstrated with one S who had previously lost weight. (Author/DLS)

Masculine and Feminine Stereotypes and Adjustment: A Reanalysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, Lucia A.; And Others

1981-01-01

Presents a reanalysis of earlier data from a study of self-perceptions of stereotypic masculine and feminine attributes, Rogerian-type conflict, and personal adjustment. Reanalyses demonstrated the advantage of distinguishing between androgynous and undifferentiated individuals rather than grouping them together into a single "balanced"…

Spectroscopic and electric properties of the LiCs molecule: a coupled cluster study including higher excitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sørensen, L. K.; Fleig, T.; Olsen, J.

2009-08-01

Aimed at obtaining complete and highly accurate potential energy surfaces for molecules containing heavy elements, we present a new general-order coupled cluster method which can be applied in the framework of the spin-free Dirac formalism. As an initial application we present a systematic study of electron correlation and relativistic effects on the spectroscopic and electric properties of the LiCs molecule in its electronic ground state. In particular, we closely investigate the importance of excitations higher than coupled cluster doubles, spin-free and spin-dependent relativistic effects and the correlation of outer-core electrons on the equilibrium bond length, the harmonic vibrational frequency, the dissociation energy, the dipole moment and the static electric dipole polarizability. We demonstrate that our new implementation allows for highly accurate calculations not only in the bonding region but also along the complete potential curve. The quality of our results is demonstrated by a vibrational analysis where an almost complete set of vibrational levels has been calculated accurately.

Antinociception induced by atorvastatin in different pain models.

PubMed

Garcia, G G; Miranda, H F; Noriega, V; Sierralta, F; Olavarría, L; Zepeda, R J; Prieto, J C

2011-11-01

Atorvastatin is a statin that inhibits the 3-hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase. Several landmark clinical trials have demonstrated the beneficial effects of statin therapy for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is assumed that the beneficial effects of statin therapy are entirely due to cholesterol reduction. Statins have an additional activity (pleiotropic effect) that has been associated to their anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the present study was to assess the antinociceptive activity of atorvastatin in five animal pain models. The daily administration of 3-100mg/kg of atorvastatin by oral gavage induced a significant dose-dependent antinociception in the writhing, tail-flick, orofacial formalin and formalin hind paw tests. However, this antinociceptive activity of atorvastatin was detectable only at high concentrations in the hot plate assay. The data obtained in the present study demonstrates the effect of atorvastatin to reduce nociception and inflammation in different animal pain models. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mass Spectrometry Based Mechanistic Insights into Formation of Tris Conjugates: Implications on Protein Biopharmaceutics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabadi, Pradeep G.; Sankaran, Praveen Kallamvalliillam; Palanivelu, Dinesh V.; Adhikary, Laxmi; Khedkar, Anand; Chatterjee, Amarnath

2016-10-01

We present here extensive mass spectrometric studies on the formation of a Tris conjugate with a therapeutic monoclonal antibody. The results not only demonstrate the reactive nature of the Tris molecule but also the sequence and reaction conditions that trigger this reactivity. The results corroborate the fact that proteins are, in general, prone to conjugation and/or adduct formation reactions and any modification due to this essentially leads to formation of impurities in a protein sample. Further, the results demonstrate that the conjugation reaction happens via a succinimide intermediate and has sequence specificity. Additionally, the data presented in this study also shows that the Tris formation is produced in-solution and is not an in-source phenomenon. We believe that the facts given here will open further avenues on exploration of Tris as a conjugating agent as well as ensure that the use of Tris or any ionic buffer in the process of producing a biopharmaceutical drug is monitored closely for the presence of such conjugate formation.

A comparison of the electrocortical response to monetary and social reward

PubMed Central

Distefano, Amanda; Jackson, Felicia; Levinson, Amanda R; Infantolino, Zachary P; Jarcho, Johanna M; Nelson, Brady D

2018-01-01

Abstract Affective science research on reward processing has primarily focused on monetary rewards. There has been a growing interest in evaluating the neural basis of social decision-making and reward processing. The present study employed a within-subject design and compared the reward positivity (RewP), an event-related potential component that is present following favorable feedback and absent or reduced following unfavorable feedback, during monetary and social reward tasks. Specifically, 114 participants (75 females) completed a monetary reward task and a novel social reward task that were matched on trial structure, timing, and feedback stimuli in a counterbalanced order. Results indicated that the monetary and social RewP were of similar magnitude, positively correlated and demonstrated comparable psychometric properties, including reliability and dependability. Across both the monetary and social tasks, women demonstrated a greater RewP compared with men. This study provides a novel methodological approach toward examining the electrocortical response to social reward that is comparable to monetary reward. PMID:29373743

Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS): Critical appraisal of its measurement properties.

PubMed

Jung, James J; Borkhoff, Cornelia M; Jüni, Peter; Grantcharov, Teodor P

2018-02-17

To critically appraise the development and measurement properties, including sensibility, reliability, and validity of the Non-Technical Skills of Surgeons (NOTSS) system. Articles that described development process of the NOTSS system were identified. Relevant primary studies that presented evidence of reliability and validity were identified through a comprehensive literature review. NOTSS was developed through robust item generation and reduction strategies. It was shown to have good content validity, acceptability, and feasibility. Inter-rater reliability increased with greater expertise and number of assessors. Studies demonstrated evidence of cross-sectional construct validity, in that the tool was able to differentiate known groups of varied non-technical skill levels. Evidence of longitudinal construct validity also existed to demonstrate that NOTSS detected changes in non-technical skills before and after targeted training. In populations and settings presented in our critical appraisal, NOTSS provided reliable and valid measurements of intraoperative non-technical skills of surgeons. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.