Use of Diffusion of Innovations Theory To Drive a Federal Agency's Program Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hubbard, Susan M.; Hayashi, Susan W.

2003-01-01

Provides the conceptual framework for the Treatment Improvement Protocols (TIPs) evaluation project, using the diffusion of innovations theory as the theoretical foundation to understand and assess the development of TIPs. Summarizes principles of diffusion theory, and discusses how the model was used to structure the TIPs studies. (SLD)

A simplified field protocol for genetic sampling of birds using buccal swabs

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vilstrup, Julia T.; Mullins, Thomas D.; Miller, Mark P.; McDearman, Will; Walters, Jeffrey R.; Haig, Susan M.

2018-01-01

DNA sampling is an essential prerequisite for conducting population genetic studies. For many years, blood sampling has been the preferred method for obtaining DNA in birds because of their nucleated red blood cells. Nonetheless, use of buccal swabs has been gaining favor because they are less invasive yet still yield adequate amounts of DNA for amplifying mitochondrial and nuclear markers; however, buccal swab protocols often include steps (e.g., extended air-drying and storage under frozen conditions) not easily adapted to field settings. Furthermore, commercial extraction kits and swabs for buccal sampling can be expensive for large population studies. We therefore developed an efficient, cost-effective, and field-friendly protocol for sampling wild birds after comparing DNA yield among 3 inexpensive buccal swab types (2 with foam tips and 1 with a cotton tip). Extraction and amplification success was high (100% and 97.2% respectively) using inexpensive generic swabs. We found foam-tipped swabs provided higher DNA yields than cotton-tipped swabs. We further determined that omitting a drying step and storing swabs in Longmire buffer increased efficiency in the field while still yielding sufficient amounts of DNA for detailed population genetic studies using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. This new field protocol allows time- and cost-effective DNA sampling of juveniles or small-bodied birds for which drawing blood may cause excessive stress to birds and technicians alike.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement During Pregnancy: A Case Series of Five Patients

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

Ingraham, Christopher R., E-mail: cringra@uw.edu; Padia, Siddharth A., E-mail: spadia@uw.edu; Johnson, Guy E., E-mail: gej@uw.edu

Background and AimsComplications of portal hypertension, such as variceal hemorrhage and ascites, are associated with significant increases in both mortality and complications during pregnancy. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a well-established procedure for treating portal hypertension, but the safety of TIPS during pregnancy is largely unknown. In this series, we review five patients who underwent TIPS placement while pregnant and describe their clinical outcomes.MethodsFive pregnant patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension underwent elective TIPS for complications of portal hypertension (four for secondary prevention of variceal bleeding and one for refractory ascites). Outcomes measured were recurrent bleeding episodes or needmore » for further paracenteses during pregnancy, estimated radiation dose to the fetus and gestational age at delivery. All patients were followed after delivery to evaluate technical and clinical success of the procedure.ResultsAll five patients survived pregnancy and went on to deliver successfully. When TIPS was performed for secondary prevention of variceal bleeding (n = 4), no patients demonstrated variceal bleeding after TIPS placement. When TIPS was performed for refractory ascites (n = 1), no further paracenteses were required. All patients delivered successfully, albeit prematurely. Average radiation dose estimated to the fetus was 16.3 mGy.ConclusionsThis series suggests that TIPS can be performed in selective pregnant patients with portal hypertension, with little added risk to the mother or fetus.« less

The TIPS Evaluation Project: A Theory-Driven Approach to Dissemination Research.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mulvey, Kevin P.; Hayashi, Susan W.; Hubbard, Susan M.; Kopstien, Andrea; Huang, Judy Y.

2003-01-01

Introduces the special section that focuses on four major studies under the treatment improvement protocols (TIPs) evaluation project. Provides an overview of each article, and addresses the value of using a theory-driven approach to dissemination research. (SLD)

Identifying passivated dynamic force microscopy tips on H:Si(100)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharp, Peter; Jarvis, Sam; Woolley, Richard; Sweetman, Adam; Kantorovich, Lev; Pakes, Chris; Moriarty, Philip

2012-06-01

The chemical reactivity of the tip plays a central role in image formation in dynamic force microscopy, but in very many cases the state of the probe is a key experimental unknown. We show here that an H-terminated and thus chemically unreactive tip can be readily identified via characteristic imaging and spectroscopic (F(z)) signatures, including, in particular, contrast inversion, on hydrogen-passivated Si(100). We determine the tip apex termination by comparing site-specific difference force curves with the results of density functional theory, providing a clear protocol for the identification of chemically unreactive tips on silicon surfaces.

Organic-matter loading determines regime shifts and alternative states in an aquatic ecosystem

PubMed Central

Sirota, Jennie; Baiser, Benjamin; Gotelli, Nicholas J.; Ellison, Aaron M.

2013-01-01

Slow changes in underlying state variables can lead to “tipping points,” rapid transitions between alternative states (“regime shifts”) in a wide range of complex systems. Tipping points and regime shifts routinely are documented retrospectively in long time series of observational data. Experimental induction of tipping points and regime shifts is rare, but could lead to new methods for detecting impending tipping points and forestalling regime shifts. By using controlled additions of detrital organic matter (dried, ground arthropod prey), we experimentally induced a shift from aerobic to anaerobic states in a miniature aquatic ecosystem: the self-contained pools that form in leaves of the carnivorous northern pitcher plant, Sarracenia purpurea. In unfed controls, the concentration of dissolved oxygen ([O2]) in all replicates exhibited regular diurnal cycles associated with daytime photosynthesis and nocturnal plant respiration. In low prey-addition treatments, the regular diurnal cycles of [O2] were disrupted, but a regime shift was not detected. In high prey-addition treatments, the variance of the [O2] time series increased until the system tipped from an aerobic to an anaerobic state. In these treatments, replicate [O2] time series predictably crossed a tipping point at ∼45 h as [O2] was decoupled from diurnal cycles of photosynthesis and respiration. Increasing organic-matter loading led to predictable changes in [O2] dynamics, with high loading consistently driving the system past a well-defined tipping point. The Sarracenia microecosystem functions as a tractable experimental system in which to explore the forecasting and management of tipping points and alternative regimes. PMID:23613583

Organic-matter loading determines regime shifts and alternative states in an aquatic ecosystem.

PubMed

Sirota, Jennie; Baiser, Benjamin; Gotelli, Nicholas J; Ellison, Aaron M

2013-05-07

Slow changes in underlying state variables can lead to "tipping points," rapid transitions between alternative states ("regime shifts") in a wide range of complex systems. Tipping points and regime shifts routinely are documented retrospectively in long time series of observational data. Experimental induction of tipping points and regime shifts is rare, but could lead to new methods for detecting impending tipping points and forestalling regime shifts. By using controlled additions of detrital organic matter (dried, ground arthropod prey), we experimentally induced a shift from aerobic to anaerobic states in a miniature aquatic ecosystem: the self-contained pools that form in leaves of the carnivorous northern pitcher plant, Sarracenia purpurea. In unfed controls, the concentration of dissolved oxygen ([O2]) in all replicates exhibited regular diurnal cycles associated with daytime photosynthesis and nocturnal plant respiration. In low prey-addition treatments, the regular diurnal cycles of [O2] were disrupted, but a regime shift was not detected. In high prey-addition treatments, the variance of the [O2] time series increased until the system tipped from an aerobic to an anaerobic state. In these treatments, replicate [O2] time series predictably crossed a tipping point at ~45 h as [O2] was decoupled from diurnal cycles of photosynthesis and respiration. Increasing organic-matter loading led to predictable changes in [O2] dynamics, with high loading consistently driving the system past a well-defined tipping point. The Sarracenia microecosystem functions as a tractable experimental system in which to explore the forecasting and management of tipping points and alternative regimes.

Protocol for Removal of Third Molar Root Tips from the Inferior Alveolar Canal-Crossing the line.

PubMed

Punga, Rohit; Keswani, Kiran

2014-12-01

The safe removal of third molars involved with the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) has been an area of concern since long. Many times we hesitate for the removal of third molars, fearing injury to the inferior alveolar nerve. The authors here describe a simple technique which can be used to remove third molars showing evidence of proximity to IAC on presurgical radiographic evaluation, as well as those root tips which, during removal, accidentally enter the IAC space. A step-by-step protocol is presented along with necessary precautions during the operative procedure.

Writing Interview Protocols and Conducting Interviews: Tips for Students New to the Field of Qualitative Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jacob, Stacy A.; Furgerson, S. Paige

2012-01-01

Students new to doing qualitative research in the ethnographic and oral traditions, often have difficulty creating successful interview protocols. This article offers practical suggestions for students new to qualitative research for both writing interview protocol that elicit useful data and for conducting the interview. This piece was originally…

User's manual for PEPSIG NASA tip vortex version

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsai, Tommy M.; Dejong, Frederick J.; Levy, Ralph

1988-01-01

The tip vortex flowfield plays a significant role in the performance of advanced aircraft propellers. The flowfield in the tip region is complex, three-dimensional and viscous with large secondary velocities. A computer code was developed to predict the tip vortex flowfield of advanced aircraft propellers. This document is the user's manual. The analysis and a series of test cases are presented in NASA-CR-182179.

Digital subtraction angiography during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation or revision: data on radiation exposure and image quality obtained using a standard and a low-dose acquisition protocol in a flat-panel detector-based system.

PubMed

Miraglia, Roberto; Maruzzelli, Luigi; Cortis, Kelvin; Tafaro, Corrado; Gerasia, Roberta; Parisi, Carmelo; Luca, Angelo

2015-08-01

To determine whether the use of a low-dose acquisition protocol (LDP) in digital subtraction angiography during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation/revision results in significant reduction of patient radiation exposure and adequate image quality, as compared to a default reference standard-dose acquisition protocol (SDP). Two angiographic runs were performed during TIPS creation/revision: the first following catheterization of the portal venous system and the second after stent deployment/angioplasty. Constant field of view, object to image-detector distance, and source to image-receptor distance were maintained in each patient during the two angiographic runs. 17 consecutive adult patients who underwent TIPS creation (n = 11) or TIPS revision (n = 6) from December 2013 to March 2014 were considered eligible for this single centre prospective study. In each patient, the LDP and the SDP were used in a random order for the two runs, with each patient serving as his/her own control. The dose-area product (DAP) was calculated for each image and compared. Image quality was graded by two interventional radiologists other than the operator. In all runs acquired with the LDP, image quality was considered adequate for a successful procedural outcome. The DAP per image of the LDP was numerically inferior as compared to the DAP per image of the SDP in all patients. The mean reduction in DAP per image was 75.24% ± 5.7% (p < 0. 001). Radiation exposure during TIPS creation/revision was significantly reduced by selecting a LDP in our flat-panel detector-based system, while maintaining adequate image quality.

The generalized fracture criteria based on the multi-parameter representation of the crack tip stress field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepanova, L. V.

2017-12-01

The paper is devoted to the multi-parameter asymptotic description of the stress field near the crack tip of a finite crack in an infinite isotropic elastic plane medium subject to 1) tensile stress; 2) in-plane shear; 3) mixed mode loading for a wide range of mode-mixity situations (Mode I and Mode II). The multi-parameter series expansion of stress tensor components containing higher-order terms is obtained. All the coefficients of the multiparameter series expansion of the stress field are given. The main focus is on the discussion of the influence of considering the higher-order terms of the Williams expansion. The analysis of the higher-order terms in the stress field is performed. It is shown that the larger the distance from the crack tip, the more terms it is necessary to keep in the asymptotic series expansion. Therefore, it can be concluded that several more higher-order terms of the Williams expansion should be used for the stress field description when the distance from the crack tip is not small enough. The crack propagation direction angle is calculated. Two fracture criteria, the maximum tangential stress criterion and the strain energy density criterion, are used. The multi-parameter form of the two commonly used fracture criteria is introduced and tested. Thirty and more terms of the Williams series expansion for the near-crack-tip stress field enable the angle to be calculated more precisely.

Case management and quality: have we reached a tipping point?

PubMed

Dulworth, Sherrie

2006-01-01

In The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell describes a phenomenon in which a niche market or fad undergoes transformation into mainstream acceptability, resulting in widespread social change. He concludes that a "tipping point" occurs when a series of small events results in a critical mass of acceptance that produces sudden major changes.

Spatially resolved quantitative mapping of thermomechanical properties and phase transition temperatures using scanning probe microscopy

DOEpatents

Jesse, Stephen; Kalinin, Sergei V; Nikiforov, Maxim P

2013-07-09

An approach for the thermomechanical characterization of phase transitions in polymeric materials (polyethyleneterephthalate) by band excitation acoustic force microscopy is developed. This methodology allows the independent measurement of resonance frequency, Q factor, and oscillation amplitude of a tip-surface contact area as a function of tip temperature, from which the thermal evolution of tip-surface spring constant and mechanical dissipation can be extracted. A heating protocol maintained a constant tip-surface contact area and constant contact force, thereby allowing for reproducible measurements and quantitative extraction of material properties including temperature dependence of indentation-based elastic and loss moduli.

Gardening from a Wheelchair

MedlinePlus

... your function in the garden. Match your garden's design to your individual needs." Trying to push beyond ... sports Team sports Winter sports Video: Handcycling Video series: Accessible gardening Video series: Exercise tips Video series: ...

Tips for giving a memorable presentation Part V: stage fright and rehearsing a presentation.

PubMed

Harolds, Jay A

2012-11-01

Previous articles in this series have included many tips on composing a memorable presentation. This article will focus on rehearsing the presentation and dealing with stage fright. There are additional comments on making sure everything is optimized in the lecture room in advance and other tips for the actual presentation.

Photoacoustic shock wave emission and cavitation from structured optical fiber tips

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

Mohammadzadeh, M.; Gonzalez-Avila, S. R.; Ohl, C. D., E-mail: cdohl@ntu.edu.sg

Photoacoustic waves generated at the tip of an optical fiber consist of a compressive shock wave followed by tensile diffraction waves. These tensile waves overlap along the fiber axis and form a cloud of cavitation bubbles. We demonstrate that shaping the fiber tip through micromachining alters the number and direction of the emitted waves and cavitation clouds. Shock wave emission and cavitation patterns from five distinctively shaped fiber tips have been studied experimentally and compared to a linear wave propagation model. In particular, multiple shock wave emission and generation of strong tension away from the fiber axis have been realizedmore » using modified fiber tips. These altered waveforms may be applied for novel microsurgery protocols, such as fiber-based histotripsy, by utilizing bubble-shock wave interaction.« less

Cultivar-Dependent Direct Organogenesis of Date Palm from Shoot Tip Explants.

PubMed

Abahmane, Larbi

2017-01-01

A number of public and private laboratories are working on date palm micropropagation to meet the increasing worldwide demand for date palm planting material. A standardized direct organogenesis protocol exists for the production of date palm plantlets to maintain the genetic fidelity of regenerated plants. Organogenesis has the advantage of using low concentrations of plant growth regulators and avoiding the callus phase. In addition, direct regeneration of vegetative buds minimizes the risk of somaclonal variation among plant regenerants. However, in vitro multiplication cycles should be limited in duration by frequent renewal of plant material. This chapter describes a simple and routine organogenesis protocol for date palm multiplication using shoot tip explants.

An experimental study of tip shape effects on the flutter of aft-swept, flat-plate wings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dansberry, Bryan E.; Rivera, Jose A., Jr.; Farmer, Moses G.

1990-01-01

The effects of tip chord orientation on wing flutter are investigated experimentally using six cantilever-mounted, flat-plate wing models. Experimentally determined flutter characteristics of the six models are presented covering both the subsonic and transonic Mach number ranges. While all models have a 60 degree leading edge sweep, a 40.97 degree trailing edge sweep, and a root chord of 34.75 inches, they are subdivided into two series characterized by a higher aspect ratio and a lower aspect ratio. Each series is made up of three models with tip chord orientations which are parallel to the free-stream flow, perpendicular to the model mid-chord line, and perpendicular to the free-stream flow. Although planform characteristics within each series of models are held constant, structural characteristics such as mode shapes and natural frequencies are allowed to vary.

The effect of tip shields on a horizontal tail surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dronin, Paul V; Ramsden, Earl I; Higgins, George J

1928-01-01

A series of experiments made in the wind tunnel of the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aeronautics, New York University, on the effect of tip shields on a horizontal tail surface are described and discussed. It was found that some aerodynamic gain can be obtained by the use of tip shields though it is considered doubtful whether their use would be practical.

Teleoperation in surgical robotics--network latency effects on surgical performance.

PubMed

Lum, Mitchell J H; Rosen, Jacob; King, Hawkeye; Friedman, Diana C W; Lendvay, Thomas S; Wright, Andrew S; Sinanan, Mika N; Hannaford, Blake

2009-01-01

A teleoperated surgical robotic system allows surgical procedures to be conducted across long distances while utilizing wired and wireless communication with a wide spectrum of performance that may affect the outcome. An open architecture portable surgical robotic system (Raven) was developed for both open and minimally invasive surgery. The system has been the subject of an intensive telesurgical experimental protocol aimed at exploring the boundaries of the system and surgeon performance during a series of field experiments in extreme environments (desert and underwater) teleportation between US, Europe, and Japan as well as lab experiments under synthetic fixed time delay. One standard task (block transfer emulating tissue manipulation) of the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training kit was used for the experimental protocol. Network characterization indicated a typical time delay in the range of 16-172 ms in field experiments. The results of the lab experiments showed that the completion time of the task as well as the length of the tool tip trajectory significantly increased (alpha< 0.02) as time delay increased in the range of 0-0.5 sec increased. For teleoperation with a time delay of 0.25s and 0.5s the task completion time was lengthened by a factor of 1.45 and 2.04 with respect to no time delay, whereas the length of the tools' trajectory was increased by a factor of 1.28 and 1.53 with respect to no time delay. There were no statistical differences between experienced surgeons and non-surgeons in the number of errors (block drooping) as well as the completion time and the tool tip path length at different time delays.

Automated extraction of single H atoms with STM: tip state dependency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Møller, Morten; Jarvis, Samuel P.; Guérinet, Laurent; Sharp, Peter; Woolley, Richard; Rahe, Philipp; Moriarty, Philip

2017-02-01

The atomistic structure of the tip apex plays a crucial role in performing reliable atomic-scale surface and adsorbate manipulation using scanning probe techniques. We have developed an automated extraction routine for controlled removal of single hydrogen atoms from the H:Si(100) surface. The set of atomic extraction protocols detect a variety of desorption events during scanning tunneling microscope (STM)-induced modification of the hydrogen-passivated surface. The influence of the tip state on the probability for hydrogen removal was examined by comparing the desorption efficiency for various classifications of STM topographs (rows, dimers, atoms, etc). We find that dimer-row-resolving tip apices extract hydrogen atoms most readily and reliably (and with least spurious desorption), while tip states which provide atomic resolution counter-intuitively have a lower probability for single H atom removal.

Cryopreservation of chayote (Sechium edule JACQ. SW.) zygotic embryos and shoot-tips from in vitro plantlets.

PubMed

Abdelnour-Esquivel, Ana; Engelmann, Florent

2002-01-01

This paper presents the development of cryopreservation protocols for zygotic embryos and apices of chayote (Sechium edule Jacq. Sw.), a tropical plant species with recalcitrant seeds. Zygotic embryos of two cultivars, Ccocro negro (CN) and Claudio (Cl) could withstand cryopreservation, with survival percentages of 10 and 30 %, after desiccation to 23 and 19 % moisture content (fresh weight basis), respectively. Apices sampled on in vitro plantlets of cultivars Cl, 13 and JM were successfully cryopreserved using a vitrification technique. Optimal conditions included the culture of mother-plants for 22 days on medium containing 0.3 M sucrose, culture of excised apices on the same medium for 1 day, loading of apices for 20 min with 2M glycerol + 0.4M glycerol, treatment with a series of diluted PVS2 solution (60 % PVS2 followed by 80 % PVS2 solution for 15 min (cultivar Cocoro Blanco [CB]) or 30 min (cultivars CN and Cl) at each concentration), rapid freezing and thawing, washing of shoot-tips with a 1.2 M sucrose solution, followed by recovery on media with progressively decreasing sucrose concentrations until the standard concentration of 0.1 M was reached. The highest survival percentages achieved ranged between 17 and 38 %, depending on the cultivar.

Advanced optical blade tip clearance measurement system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ford, M. J.; Honeycutt, R. E.; Nordlund, R. E.; Robinson, W. W.

1978-01-01

An advanced electro-optical system was developed to measure single blade tip clearances and average blade tip clearances between a rotor and its gas path seal in an operating gas turbine engine. This system is applicable to fan, compressor, and turbine blade tip clearance measurement requirements, and the system probe is particularly suitable for operation in the extreme turbine environment. A study of optical properties of blade tips was conducted to establish measurement system application limitations. A series of laboratory tests was conducted to determine the measurement system's operational performance characteristics and to demonstrate system capability under simulated operating gas turbine environmental conditions. Operational and environmental performance test data are presented.

Management of Bleeding Duodenal Varices with Combined TIPS Decompression and Trans-TIPS Transvenous Obliteration Utilizing 3% Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate Foam Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Saad, Wael E; Lippert, Allison; Schwaner, Sandra; Al-Osaimi, Abdullah; Sabri, Saher; Saad, Nael

2014-01-01

Objectives: Endoscopic experience in the management of duodenal varices (DVs) is limited and challenging given the anatomic constraints and limited experience. The endovascular management of DVs is not yet established and the controversy of whether to manage them by decompression with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or by transvenous obliteration is unresolved. In the literature, the 6–12 month rebleeding rate of DVs after TIPS is 21-37% and after transvenous obliteration is 13%. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the clinical outcome of combined TIPS decompression and transvenous obliteration/sclerosis. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study (case series) of two institutions, evaluating patients who underwent TIPS and/or transvenous obliteration/sclerosis for bleeding DVs (from January 2009 to June 2013). TIPS was performed according to a standard procedure using covered stents. Transvenous obliteration (variceal sclerosis) from the systemic and/or portal venous circulation was performed utilizing 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate foam. Transvenous obliteration was commonly augmented with coils and/or vascular plugs. Technical (technical success of establishing TIPS and completely obliterating the DVs) and clinical outcomes (rebleeding rate and survival) were evaluated. Results: Five patients with liver cirrhosis presenting with bleeding DVs were included in the study with all eventually (and coincidentally) receiving TIPS and transvenous obliteration. Two of the five patients underwent concomitant TIPS and transvenous obliteration in the same procedural setting. However, three patients underwent transvenous obliteration due to bleeding despite a patent TIPS that had been previously placed. The average time from TIPS placement to transvenous obliteration was 125 days (range: 3-324 days). After having both procedures, there was no rebleeding in the patients during a mean follow-up period of 22 months (6–50 months). Coils and/or metallic vascular plugs were used to augment the sclerosant obliteration in four of five patients. Conclusion: The combination of TIPS decompression and foam sclerosant transvenous obliteration appears to be effective in preventing rebleeding in this limited case series and compares favorably with the existing evidence for either approach [TIPS or balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO)] alone. PMID:25558434

Management of Bleeding Duodenal Varices with Combined TIPS Decompression and Trans-TIPS Transvenous Obliteration Utilizing 3% Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate Foam Sclerosis.

PubMed

Saad, Wael E; Lippert, Allison; Schwaner, Sandra; Al-Osaimi, Abdullah; Sabri, Saher; Saad, Nael

2014-01-01

Endoscopic experience in the management of duodenal varices (DVs) is limited and challenging given the anatomic constraints and limited experience. The endovascular management of DVs is not yet established and the controversy of whether to manage them by decompression with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or by transvenous obliteration is unresolved. In the literature, the 6-12 month rebleeding rate of DVs after TIPS is 21-37% and after transvenous obliteration is 13%. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the clinical outcome of combined TIPS decompression and transvenous obliteration/sclerosis. This is a retrospective study (case series) of two institutions, evaluating patients who underwent TIPS and/or transvenous obliteration/sclerosis for bleeding DVs (from January 2009 to June 2013). TIPS was performed according to a standard procedure using covered stents. Transvenous obliteration (variceal sclerosis) from the systemic and/or portal venous circulation was performed utilizing 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate foam. Transvenous obliteration was commonly augmented with coils and/or vascular plugs. Technical (technical success of establishing TIPS and completely obliterating the DVs) and clinical outcomes (rebleeding rate and survival) were evaluated. Five patients with liver cirrhosis presenting with bleeding DVs were included in the study with all eventually (and coincidentally) receiving TIPS and transvenous obliteration. Two of the five patients underwent concomitant TIPS and transvenous obliteration in the same procedural setting. However, three patients underwent transvenous obliteration due to bleeding despite a patent TIPS that had been previously placed. The average time from TIPS placement to transvenous obliteration was 125 days (range: 3-324 days). After having both procedures, there was no rebleeding in the patients during a mean follow-up period of 22 months (6-50 months). Coils and/or metallic vascular plugs were used to augment the sclerosant obliteration in four of five patients. The combination of TIPS decompression and foam sclerosant transvenous obliteration appears to be effective in preventing rebleeding in this limited case series and compares favorably with the existing evidence for either approach [TIPS or balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO)] alone.

Health Lines | NIH Medlineplus the Magazine

MedlinePlus

... that question and more in a new monthly series of "Time to Talk" tips. The easy-to-read information ... The monthly tips can be found on the "Time to Talk" web page at ... Researchers from the Framingham Heart Study say a diet low in omega-3 fatty ...

High-throughput, automated extraction of DNA and RNA from clinical samples using TruTip technology on common liquid handling robots.

PubMed

Holmberg, Rebecca C; Gindlesperger, Alissa; Stokes, Tinsley; Brady, Dane; Thakore, Nitu; Belgrader, Philip; Cooney, Christopher G; Chandler, Darrell P

2013-06-11

TruTip is a simple nucleic acid extraction technology whereby a porous, monolithic binding matrix is inserted into a pipette tip. The geometry of the monolith can be adapted for specific pipette tips ranging in volume from 1.0 to 5.0 ml. The large porosity of the monolith enables viscous or complex samples to readily pass through it with minimal fluidic backpressure. Bi-directional flow maximizes residence time between the monolith and sample, and enables large sample volumes to be processed within a single TruTip. The fundamental steps, irrespective of sample volume or TruTip geometry, include cell lysis, nucleic acid binding to the inner pores of the TruTip monolith, washing away unbound sample components and lysis buffers, and eluting purified and concentrated nucleic acids into an appropriate buffer. The attributes and adaptability of TruTip are demonstrated in three automated clinical sample processing protocols using an Eppendorf epMotion 5070, Hamilton STAR and STARplus liquid handling robots, including RNA isolation from nasopharyngeal aspirate, genomic DNA isolation from whole blood, and fetal DNA extraction and enrichment from large volumes of maternal plasma (respectively).

Identifying tips for intramolecular NC-AFM imaging via in situ fingerprinting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sang, Hongqian; Jarvis, Samuel P.; Zhou, Zhichao; Sharp, Peter; Moriarty, Philip; Wang, Jianbo; Wang, Yu; Kantorovich, Lev

2014-10-01

A practical experimental strategy is proposed that could potentially enable greater control of the tip apex in non-contact atomic force microscopy experiments. It is based on a preparation of a structure of interest alongside a reference surface reconstruction on the same sample. Our proposed strategy is as follows. Spectroscopy measurements are first performed on the reference surface to identify the tip apex structure using a previously collected database of responses of different tips to this surface. Next, immediately following the tip identification protocol, the surface of interest is studied (imaging, manipulation and/or spectroscopy). The prototype system we choose is the mixed Si(111)-7×7 and surface which can be prepared on the same sample with a controlled ratio of reactive and passivated regions. Using an ``in silico'' approach based on ab initio density functional calculations and a set of tips with varying chemical reactivities, we show how one can perform tip fingerprinting using the Si(111)-7×7 reference surface. Then it is found by examining the imaging of a naphthalene tetracarboxylic diimide (NTCDI) molecule adsorbed on surface that negatively charged tips produce the best intramolecular contrast attributed to the enhancement of repulsive interactions.

Intermodulation Atomic Force Microscopy and Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hutter, Carsten; Platz, Daniel; Tholen, Erik; Haviland, David; Hansson, Hans

2009-03-01

We present a powerful new method of dynamic AFM, which allows to gain far more information about the tip-surface interaction than standard amplitude or phase imaging, while scanning at comparable speed. Our method, called intermodulation atomic force microscopy (ImAFM), employs the manifestly nonlinear phenomenon of intermodulation to extract information about tip-surface forces. ImAFM uses one eigenmode of a mechanical resonator, the latter driven at two frequencies to produce many spectral peaks near its resonace, where sensitivity is highest [1]. We furthermore present a protocol for decoding the combined information encoded in the spectrum of intermodulation peaks. Our theoretical framework suggests methods to enhance the gained information by using a different parameter regime as compared to Ref. [1]. We also discuss strategies for solving the inverse problem, i.e., for extracting the nonlinear tip-surface interaction from the response, also naming limitations of our theoretical analysis. We will further report on latest progress to experimentally employ our new protocol.[3pt] [1] D. Platz, E. A. Tholen, D. Pesen, and D. B. Haviland, Appl. Phys. Lett. 92, 153106 (2008).

Influence of Crack-Tip Configurations on the Fracture Response of 0.04-Inch Thick 2024-T3 Aluminum Alloy Sheet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnston, William M.; Newman, James C. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

A series of fracture tests were conducted on Middle-crack tension M(T) and compact tension C(T) specimens to determine the effects of specimen type, specimen width, notch tip sharpness and buckling on the fracture behavior of cracked thin sheet (0.04 inch thick) 2024-T3 aluminum alloy material. A series of M(T) specimens were tested with three notch tip configurations: (1) a fatigue pre-cracked notch, (2) a 0.010-inch-diameter wire electrical discharge machined (EDM) notch, and (3) a EDM notch sharpened with a razor blade. The test procedures are discussed and the experimental results for failure stress, load vs. crack extension and the material stress-strain response are reported.

Make Celebrations Fun, Healthy, and Active: 10 Tips to Creating Healthy, Active Events

MedlinePlus

United States Department of Agriculture 10 tips Nutrition Education Series MyPlate MyWins Based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Make celebrations ... out some of the recipes on WhatsCooking.fns.usda.gov. 8 Keep it simple Have others participate ...

Keep It Simple. Teaching Tips for Special Olympic Athletes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnston, Judith E.; And Others

1996-01-01

Physical educators can help Special Olympics athletes learn cross-lateral delivery techniques for bowling or throwing softballs by color coding the throwing arm and opposing foot. The article explains color coding, presenting teaching tips for both sports. A series of workshops on modifying exercise principles for individuals with physical…

The Micro TIPS - Cases - Programmed Learning Course Package.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heriot-Watt Univ., Edinburgh (Scotland). Esmee Fairbairn Economics Research Centre.

Part of an economic education series, the course package is designed to teach basic concepts and principles of microeconomics and how they can be applied to various world problems. For use with college students, learning is gained through lectures, tutorials, textbooks, programmed text, cases, and TIPS (Teaching Information Processing System).…

A combined Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)/UV-vis approach for the investigation of dye content in commercial felt tip pens inks.

PubMed

Saviello, Daniela; Trabace, Maddalena; Alyami, Abeer; Mirabile, Antonio; Giorgi, Rodorico; Baglioni, Piero; Iacopino, Daniela

2018-05-01

The development of protocols for the protection of the large patrimony of works of art created by felt tip pen media since the 1950's requires detailed knowledge of the main dyes constituting commercial ink mixtures. In this work Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) and UV-vis spectroscopy were used for the first time for the systematic identification of dye composition in commercial felt tip pens. A large selection of pens comprising six colors of five different brands was analyzed. Intense SERS spectra were obtained for all colors, allowing identification of main dye constituents. Poinceau 4R and Eosin dyes were found to be the main constituents of red and pink colors; Rhodamine and Tartrazine were found in orange and yellow colors; Erioglaucine was found in green and blue colors. UV-vis analysis of the same inks was used to support SERS findings but also to unequivocally assign some uncertain dye identifications, especially for yellow and orange colors. The spectral data of all felt tip pens collected through this work were assembled in a database format. The data obtained through this systematic investigation constitute the basis for the assembly of larger reference databases that ultimately will support the development of conservation protocols for the long term preservation of modern art collections. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Recent advances in the cryopreservation of shoot-derived germplasm of economically important fruit trees of Actinidia, Diospyros, Malus, Olea, Prunus, Pyrus and Vitis.

PubMed

Benelli, Carla; De Carlo, Anna; Engelmann, Florent

2013-01-01

This paper presents the advances made over the last decade in cryopreservation of economically important vegetatively propagated fruit trees. Cryopreservation protocols have been established using both dormant buds sampled on field-grown plants and shoot tips sampled on in vitro plantlets. In the case of dormant buds, scions are partially dehydrated by storage at -5 °C, and then cooled slowly to -30 °C using low cooling rates (c.a. 1 °C/h) before immersion in liquid nitrogen. After slow rewarming and rehydration of samples, regrowth takes place either through grafting of buds on rootstocks or excision of apices and inoculation in vitro. In the case of shoot tips of in vitro plantlets, the cryopreservation techniques employed are the following: controlled rate cooling procedures involving slow prefreezing followed by immersion in liquid nitrogen or vitrification-based procedures including encapsulation-dehydration, vitrification, encapsulation-vitrification and droplet-vitrification. The current status of cryopreservation for a series of fruit tree species including Actinidia, Diospyros, Malus, Olea, Prunus, Pyrus and Vitis is presented. Routine application of cryopreservation for long-term germplasm storage in genebanks is currently limited to apple and pear, for which large cryopreserved collections have been established at NCGRP, Fort Collins (USA), using dormant buds and in vitro shoot tips, respectively. However, there are a growing number of examples of pilot scale testing experiments under way for different species in various countries. Progress in the further development and application of cryopreservation techniques will be made through a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the induction of tolerance to dehydration and cryopreservation in frozen explants. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preparation and Raman enhancement properties of gold nanostars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shan, Feng; Zhang, Tong

2018-03-01

Gold nanostars (GNSs) have a series of sharp tips structures, which will produce strong hot spots and have great application potential in Raman enhancement. In this paper, muti-tip GNSs have been prepared experimentally, and the control techniques of their tip and size have been mastered. For the first time, a fast and efficient self-assembly technique without additives has been developed, and a series of Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrates have been successfully prepared by using this technique. The effect of different GNSs density of substrates on SERS signal is further studied experimentally. The results show that the SERS signal is closely related to the density of particles in the substrate. The higher density of GNSs in the substrate, the more hot spots covered by the incident light plate, and the greater contribution to the SERS signal.

Database Search Strategies & Tips. Reprints from the Best of "ONLINE" [and]"DATABASE."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Online, Inc., Weston, CT.

Reprints of 17 articles presenting strategies and tips for searching databases online appear in this collection, which is one in a series of volumes of reprints from "ONLINE" and "DATABASE" magazines. Edited for information professionals who use electronically distributed databases, these articles address such topics as: (1)…

Assigning Effective Homework. Classroom Tips

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Federation of Teachers (NJ), 2010

2010-01-01

Each new school year brings high hopes, great expectations and challenges for both new and seasoned educators. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has developed a series called "Classroom Tips" to help educators start the year right and anticipate the year ahead. Over the past 40 years, most research studies on homework have found that…

Research Tools, Tips, and Resources for Financial Aid Administrators. Monograph, A NASFAA Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mohning, David D.; Redd, Kenneth E.; Simmons, Barry W., Sr.

This monograph provides research tools, tips, and resources to financial aid administrators who need to undertake research tasks. It answers: What is research? How can financial aid administrators get started on research projects? What resources are available to help answer research questions quickly and accurately? How can research efforts assist…

Percutaneous Pulmonary Embolism Thrombectomy and Thrombolysis: Technical Tips and Tricks.

PubMed

Devcic, Zlatko; Kuo, William T

2018-06-01

Catheter-directed therapy (CDT) is now acknowledged as a treatment option for select patients with acute massive or submassive pulmonary embolism (PE), and more patients are being considered for CDT if there is available expertise. Therefore, interventionalists should be aware of the variety of catheter-based treatment options, specific pitfalls to avoid during therapy, and the appropriate treatment endpoints. This article reviews currently available techniques and protocols for treating acute massive and submassive PE, with tips to safely and successfully perform percutaneous PE interventions.

Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series: Workshop 4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Race Margaret S. (Editor); DeVincenzi, Donald L. (Editor); Rummel, John D. (Editor); Acevedo, Sara E. (Editor)

2001-01-01

In preparation for missions to Mars that will involve the return of samples to Earth, it will be necessary to prepare for the receiving, handling, testing, distributing, and archiving of martian materials here on Earth. Previous groups and committees have studied selected aspects of sample return activities, but specific detailed protocols for the handling and testing of returned samples must still be developed. To further refine the requirements for sample hazard testing and to develop the criteria for subsequent release of sample materials from quarantine, the NASA Planetary Protection Officer convened a series of workshops in 2000-2001. The overall objective of the Workshop Series was to produce a Draft Protocol by which returned martian sample materials can be assessed for biological hazards and examined for evidence of life (extant or extinct) while safeguarding the purity of the samples from possible terrestrial contamination. This report also provides a record of the proceedings of Workshop 4, the final Workshop of the Series, which was held in Arlington, Virginia, June 5-7, 2001. During Workshop 4, the sub-groups were provided with a draft of the protocol compiled in May 2001 from the work done at prior Workshops in the Series. Then eight sub-groups were formed to discuss the following assigned topics: Review and Assess the Draft Protocol for Physical/Chemical Testing Review and Assess the Draft Protocol for Life Detection Testing Review and Assess the Draft Protocol for Biohazard Testing Environmental and Health/Monitoring and Safety Issues Requirements of the Draft Protocol for Facilities and Equipment Contingency Planning for Different Outcomes of the Draft Protocol Personnel Management Considerations in Implementation of the Draft Protocol Draft Protocol Implementation Process and Update Concepts This report provides the first complete presentation of the Draft Protocol for Mars Sample Handling to meet planetary protection needs. This Draft Protocol, which was compiled from deliberations and recommendations from earlier Workshops in the Series, represents a consensus that emerged from the discussions of all the sub-groups assembled over the course of the five Workshops of the Series. These discussions converged on a conceptual approach to sample handling, as well as on specific analytical requirements. Discussions also identified important issues requiring attention, as well as research and development needed for protocol implementation.

Pilot Testing Fall TIPS (Tailoring Interventions for Patient Safety): a Patient-Centered Fall Prevention Toolkit.

PubMed

Dykes, Patricia C; Duckworth, Megan; Cunningham, Stephanie; Dubois, Sasha; Driscoll, Melissa; Feliciano, Zinnia; Ferrazzi, Michael; Fevrin, Farah E; Lyons, Stephanie; Lindros, Mary Ellen; Monahan, Allison; Paley, Matthew M; Jean-Pierre, Saby; Scanlan, Maureen

2017-08-01

Patient falls during an acute hospitalization cause injury, reduced mobility, and increased costs. The laminated paper Fall TIPS Toolkit (Fall TIPS) provides clinical decision support at the bedside by linking each patient's fall risk assessment with evidence-based interventions. Strategies were needed to integrate this evidence into clinical practice. The Institute for Healthcare Improvement's Framework for Spread is the conceptual model for pilot implementation of Fall TIPS at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH; Boston) and Montefiore Medical Center (MMC; Bronx, New York). The key to translating the evidence into practice was engaging stakeholders by leveraging existing shared governance structures, identifying unit champions, holding training sessions for all staff, and implementing auditing to assess and provide feedback on protocol adherence and patient outcomes. BWH unit compliance with using Fall TIPS averaged 82%, the mean fall rate decreased from 3.28 to 2.80 falls per 1,000 patient-days from January through June 2015 versus 2016, and the mean fall with injury rate for these periods decreased from 1.00 to 0.54 per 1,000 patient-days. At MMC, compliance averaged 91%, but the mean fall rate increased marginally from 3.04 to 3.10, while the mean fall with injury rate decreased from 0.47 to 0.31 per 1,000 patient-days. Patient knowledge survey results show improvement in knowledge of the risks for falls and the ways to prevent falls. Engaging hospital and clinical leadership is critical in translating evidence-based care into clinical practice. Barriers to adoption of the protocol have been addressed and detailed to provide guidance for spread to other institutions. Copyright © 2017 The Joint Commission. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Knowledge of orthodontic tooth movement through the maxillary sinus: a systematic review.

PubMed

Sun, Wentian; Xia, Kai; Huang, Xinqi; Cen, Xiao; Liu, Qing; Liu, Jun

2018-05-23

To investigate the feasibility, safety and stability of current interventions for moving teeth through the maxillary sinus (MTTMS) by performing a systematic review of the literature. The electronic databases PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, Web of Science, CBM, CNKI and SIGLE were searched without a language restriction. The primary outcomes were parameters related to orthodontic treatment, including orthodontic protocols, magnitude of forces, type of tooth movement, duration and rate of tooth movement, and remolding of alveolar bone and the maxillary sinus floor. The secondary outcomes were safety and stability, including root resorption, perforation of the sinus floor, loss of pulp vitality and periodontal health and relapse. Nine case reports with 25 teeth were included and systematically analyzed. Fifty to two hundred g of force was applied to move teeth through the maxillary sinus. Bodily movement was accomplished, but initial tipping was observed in 7 cases. The rate was 0.6-0.7 mm/month for molar intrusion and 0.16-1.17 and 0.05-0.16 mm/month for mesial-distal movement of premolars and molars, respectively. Bone formation and remolding of the sinus floor occurred in 7 cases. Root resorption within 6 to 30 months was observed in 3 cases, while no cases of perforation of the sinus floor, loss of pulp vitality, periodontal health impairment or relapse were reported. At the present stage, no evidence-based protocol could be recommended to guide MTTMS. The empirical application of constant and light to moderate forces (by TAD, segment and multibrackets) to slowly move teeth through or into the maxillary sinus in adults appears to be practical and secure. Bodily movement was accomplished, but teeth appear to be easily tipped initially, potentially resulting in root resorption. However, this conclusion should be interpreted with caution as the currently available evidence is based on only a few case reports or case series and longitudinal or controlled studies are lacking in this area.

Teaching American History: Structured Inquiry Approaches. SSEC Publication No. 185.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Linden, Glenn M., Ed.; Downey, Matthew T., Ed.

This paper is one of a series of ERIC/ChESS publications intended to give practical tips on teaching various topics and disciplines in the precollege social studies curriculum. The tips offered in this publication, written by seven authors, are intended to help teacheres deal with both content and teaching strategies in American history. Each of…

ABCs of Being Smart: T Is for Tips for Working with Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Joanne

2015-01-01

As part of her series, "ABCs of Being Smart," Joanne Foster presents time-tested tips for parents of toddlers to teens. Categories include: traits to tap when meeting with teachers to strengthen home and school connections or resolve any issues; strategies for parents to add to their "toolbox"; and tactical measures to consider…

Application of two-dimensional unsteady aerodynamic to a free-tip rotor response analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yates, L.; Kumagai, H.

1985-01-01

The free-tip rotor utilizes a rotor blade tip which is structurally decoupled from the blade inboard section. The tip is free to pitch about its own pitch axis to respond to the local flow angularity changes. The tip also experiences the heaving motion due to the flapping of the rotor blade. For an airfoil in any pitching and heaving motion which can be expanded into a Fourier series, the lift and moment calculated by Theodoren's theory is simply the linear combination of the lift and moment calculated for each harmonic. These lift and moment are then used to determine the response of the free-tip rotor. A parametric study is performed to determine the effect of mechanical damping, mechanical spring, sweep, friction, and a constant control moment on the free-tip rotor response characteristics and the resulting azimuthal lift distributions. The results showed that the free-tip has the capability to suppress the oscillatory lift distribution around the azimuth and to eliminate a significant negative life peak on the advancing tip. This result agrees with the result of the previous analysis based on the steady aerodynamics.

An Experimental Characterization of Tip Leakage Flows and Corresponding Effects on Multistage Compressor Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berdanier, Reid Adam

The effect of rotor tip clearances in turbomachinery applications has been a primary research interest for nearly 80 years. Over that time, studies have shown increased tip clearance in axial flow compressors typically has a detrimental effect on overall pressure rise capability, isentropic efficiency, and stall margin. With modern engine designs trending toward decreased core sizes to increase propulsive efficiency (by increasing bypass ratio) or additional compression stages to increase thermal efficiency by increasing the overall pressure ratio, blade heights in the rear stages of the high pressure compressor are expected to decrease. These rear stages typically feature smaller blade aspect ratios, for which endwall flows are more important, and the rotor tip clearance height represents a larger fraction of blade span. As a result, data sets collected with large relative rotor tip clearance heights are necessary to facilitate these future small core design goals. This research seeks to characterize rotor tip leakage flows for three tip clearance heights in the Purdue three-stage axial compressor facility (1.5%, 3.0%, and 4.0% as a percentage of overall annulus height). The multistage environment of this compressor provides the unique opportunity to examine tip leakage flow effects due to stage matching, stator-rotor interactions, and rotor-rotor interactions. The important tip leakage flow effects which develop as a result of these interactions are absent for previous studies which have been conducted using single-stage machines or isolated rotors. A series of compressor performance maps comprise points at four corrected speeds for each of the three rotor tip clearance heights. Steady total pressure and total temperature measurements highlight the effects of tip leakage flows on radial profiles and wake shapes throughout the compressor. These data also evaluate tip clearance effects on efficiency, stall margin, and peak pressure rise capability. An emphasis of measurements collected at these part-speed and off-design conditions provides a unique data set for calibrating computational models and predictive algorithms. Further investigations with detailed steady total pressure traverses provide additional insight to tip leakage flow effects on stator performance. A series of data on the 100% corrected speedline further characterize the tip leakage flow using time-resolved measurements from a combination of instrumentation techniques. An array of high-frequency-response piezoresistive pressure transducers installed over the rotors allows quantification of tip leakage flow trajectories. These data, along with measurements from a fast-response total pressure probe downstream of the rotors, evaluate the development of tip leakage flows and assess the corresponding effects of upstream stator wakes. Finally, thermal anemometry measurements collected using the single slanted hot-wire technique evaluate three-dimensional velocity components throughout the compressor. These data facilitate calculations of several flow metrics, including a blockage parameter and phase-locked streamwise vorticity.

Efficacy of four different irrigation techniques combined with 60 °C 3% sodium hypochlorite and 17% EDTA in smear layer removal.

PubMed

Guo, Xiangjun; Miao, Hui; Li, Lei; Zhang, Shasha; Zhou, Dongyan; Lu, Yan; Wu, Ligeng

2014-09-08

Efforts to improve the efficacy of smear layer removal by applying irrigant activation at the final irrigation or by elevating the temperature of the irrigant have been reported. However, the combination of such activation protocols with 60 °C 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) has seldom been mentioned. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy in smear layer removal of four different irrigation techniques combined with 60 °C 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA. Fifty single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10) according to the irrigant agitation protocols used during chemomechanical preparation(Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland): a side-vented needle group, a ultrasonic irrigation (UI) group, a NaviTip FX group, an EndoActivator group, and a control group (no agitation). After each instrumentation, the root canals were irrigated with 1 mL of 3% NaOCl at 60 °C for 1 minute, and after the whole instrumentation, the root canals were rinsed with 1 mL of 17% EDTA for 1 minute. Both NaOCl and EDTA were activated with one of the five irrigation protocols. The efficacy of smear layer removal was scored at the apical, middle and coronal thirds. The Data were statistically analyzed using SAS version 9.2 for Windows (rank sum test for a randomised block design and ANOVA). No significant differences among the NaviTip FX group, EndoActivator group and control groups, and each of these groups showed a lower score than that of UI group (P < 0.05). Within each group, all three thirds were ranked in the following order: coronal > middle > apical (P < 0.05). In the coronal third, the NaviTip FX group was better than UI group. In the middle and apical third, the differences were not significant among any of the groups. Even without any activation, the combination of 60 °C 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA could remove the smear layer effectively, similar to NaviTip FX or EndoActivator, and these three protocols were more effective than UI. However, regardless of different types of irrigation technique applied, complete removal of the smear layer was not achieved, particularly in the apical third.

Expanding torque possibilities: A skeletally anchored torqued cantilever for uprighting "kissing molars".

PubMed

Barros, Sérgio Estelita; Janson, Guilherme; Chiqueto, Kelly; Ferreira, Eduardo; Rösing, Cassiano

2018-04-01

Several uprighting mechanics and devices have been used for repositioning tipped molars. "Kissing molars" (KMs) are an uncommon tooth impaction involving 2 severely tipped mandibular molars with their occlusal surfaces positioned crown to crown, with the roots pointing in opposite directions. Orthodontic uprighting of KMs has not been a usual treatment protocol, and it can be a challenging task due to the severe tipping and double impaction, requiring efficient and well-controlled uprighting mechanics. An innovative skeletally anchored cantilever, which uses the torque principle for uprighting tipped molars, is suggested. This torqued cantilever is easy to manufacture, install, and activate; it is a well-known torque that is effective for producing root movement. A successful treatment of symptomatic KMs, involving the first and second molars, was achieved with this cantilever. Thus, clinicians should consider the suggested uprighting mechanics and orthodontic device as a more conservative alternative to extraction of KMs, depending on the patient's age, involved teeth in KMs, tipping severity, and impaction positions. Copyright © 2018 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Central venous catheterization for parenteral nutrition.

PubMed Central

Padberg, F T; Ruggiero, J; Blackburn, G L; Bistrian, B R

1981-01-01

To define the risks associated with central venous catheterization for total parenteral nutrition (TPN) 3291 patient days of this therapy, delivered by an established nutrition support team, were evaluated. One hundred and seventy-five catheters placed in 104 patients were reviewed over an 18 month period. Positive cultures were reported on 11 cannulae for a 6.4% incidence of colonization; five catheters (2.8%) were considered septic. Pleural or mediastinal complications of subclavian or internal jugular venipuncture occurred in eight patients (4.8%). Misdirection of the catheter tip occurred in 11.5% of insertions. Five patients (4.8%) had clinically apparent thrombosis in the superior vena cava, innominate and/or subclavian veins during hospitalization; four others had evidence of thrombosis at autopsy examination, giving an incidence of 8.7% in the entire series. No death directly resulted from the use of this therapy. Compliance with a rigid protocol by an experienced team can allow safe and effective use of central venous catheters and parenteral nutrition therapy. PMID:6782956

An Optimization of Electrochemical Etching Conditions for Gold Nanotips Fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Min Woo; Chong, Haeeun; Park, Doo Jae; Jang, Moonkyu; Bahn, Sebin; Choi, Soo Bong

2018-05-01

We demonstrate a series of experiments to find optimized electrochemical etching condition for fabricating gold nanotip, using square-wave voltage as a bias and using hydrochloric acid diluted by acetone as an etchant. We confirmed that the dilution ratio of 3: 1 between hydrochloric acid and acetone give the smallest tip apex diameter which reproduces our previous result. More importantly, by varying applied bias condition and immersion depth of the platinum ring used as a cathode inside the etchant, we found that the smaller tip apex diameter is achieved when both the amplitude and duty cycle get higher. The success rate, which we define the number of tips having meaningfully less diameter out of total number of tried tips, is also discussed.

Vitrification-based cryopreservation of shoot-tips of Pinus kesiya Royle ex. Gord.

PubMed

Kalita, V; Choudhury, H; Kumaria, S; Tandon, P

2012-01-01

The present investigation was aimed at developing a protocol for long-term preservation of germplasm of Pinus kesiya Royle ex. Gord. through vitrification. Some of the critical components affecting explant tolerance to cryopreservation, such as effects of preculture, vitrification solutions, exposure time to vitrification solutions, volume of vitrification solution and its toxicity, washing of vitrified tissues after thawing, were analysed. The results showed that shoot regrowth of P. kesiya shoot-tips was considerably affected when exposed to cryoprotectants for longer periods of time (longer than 10 min). Among different vitrification solutions studied, maximum survival (76 percent) of shoot-tips was achieved with mVSL (using 0.6 ml of the solution) in MS basal medium containing 4.0 mg l-1 N6-benzyladenine (BA).

Structural properties 3,16-bis triisopropylsilylethynyl (pentacene) (TIPS-pentacene) thin films onto organic dielectric layer using slide coating method

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

Rusnan, Fara Naila; Mohamad, Khairul Anuar; Seria, Dzul Fahmi Mohd Husin

3,16-bis triisopropylsilylethynyl (Pentacene) (TIPS-Pentacene) compactable interface property is important in order to have a good arrangement of molecular structure. Comparison for TIPS-Pentacene deposited between two different surface layers conducted. 0.1wt% TIPS-Pentacene diluted in chloroform were deposited onto poly(methylmeaclyrate) (PMMA) layered transparent substrates using slide coating method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) used to determine crystallinity of thin films. Series of (00l) diffraction peaks obtained with sharp first peaks (001) for TIPS-Pentacene deposited onto PMMA layer at 5.35° and separation of 16.3 Å. Morphology and surface roughness were carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and surface profilemeter LS500, respectively.TIPS-Pentacene deposited onto PMMAmore » layer formed needled-like-shape grains with 10.26 nm surface roughness. These properties were related as thin film formed and its surface roughness plays important role towards good mobility devices.« less

Tipping point analysis of ocean acoustic noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Livina, Valerie N.; Brouwer, Albert; Harris, Peter; Wang, Lian; Sotirakopoulos, Kostas; Robinson, Stephen

2018-02-01

We apply tipping point analysis to a large record of ocean acoustic data to identify the main components of the acoustic dynamical system and study possible bifurcations and transitions of the system. The analysis is based on a statistical physics framework with stochastic modelling, where we represent the observed data as a composition of deterministic and stochastic components estimated from the data using time-series techniques. We analyse long-term and seasonal trends, system states and acoustic fluctuations to reconstruct a one-dimensional stochastic equation to approximate the acoustic dynamical system. We apply potential analysis to acoustic fluctuations and detect several changes in the system states in the past 14 years. These are most likely caused by climatic phenomena. We analyse trends in sound pressure level within different frequency bands and hypothesize a possible anthropogenic impact on the acoustic environment. The tipping point analysis framework provides insight into the structure of the acoustic data and helps identify its dynamic phenomena, correctly reproducing the probability distribution and scaling properties (power-law correlations) of the time series.

For Parents' Sake: A Survival Kit for Parents and Kids. Volume II: Tips for Parents.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Butchee, Brenda, Ed.; And Others

Developed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, this booklet is the second in a series that provides tips that parents can use to help their children grow. The booklet is divided into three sections. The first section, "Getting Along as a Person," discusses a child's self-esteem, self-concept, and self-control, and suggests ways for parents…

Surface modifications with Lissajous trajectories using atomic force microscopy

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

Cai, Wei; Yao, Nan, E-mail: nyao@princeton.edu

2015-09-14

In this paper, we report a method for atomic force microscopy surface modifications with single-tone and multiple-resolution Lissajous trajectories. The tip mechanical scratching experiments with two series of Lissajous trajectories were carried out on monolayer films. The scratching processes with two scan methods have been illustrated. As an application, the tip-based triboelectrification phenomenon on the silicon dioxide surface with Lissajous trajectories was investigated. The triboelectric charges generated within the tip rubbed area on the surface were characterized in-situ by scanning Kelvin force microscopy. This method would provide a promising and cost-effective approach for surface modifications and nanofabrication.

Transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt in the elderly: Palliation for complications of portal hypertension.

PubMed

Syed, Mubin I; Karsan, Hetal; Ferral, Hector; Shaikh, Azim; Waheed, Uzma; Akhter, Talal; Gabbard, Alan; Morar, Kamal; Tyrrell, Robert

2012-02-27

To present a dedicated series of transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunts (TIPS) in the elderly since data is sparse on this population group. A retrospective review was performed of patients at least 65 years of age who underwent TIPS at our institutions between 1997 and 2010. Twenty-five patients were referred for TIPS. We deemed that 2 patients were not considered appropriate candidates due to their markedly advanced liver disease. Of the 23 patients suitable for TIPS, the indications for TIPS placement was portal hypertension complicated by refractory ascites alone (n = 9), hepatic hydrothorax alone (n = 2), refractory ascites and hydrothorax (n = 1), gastrointestinal bleeding alone (n = 8), gastrointestinal bleeding and ascites (n = 3). Of these 23 attempted TIPS procedure patients, 21 patients had technically successful TIPS procedures. A total of 29 out of 32 TIPS procedures including revisions were successful in 21 patients with a mean age of 72.1 years (range 65-82 years). Three of the procedures were unsuccessful attempts at TIPS and 8 procedures were successful revisions of our existing TIPS. Sixteen of 21 patients who underwent successful TIPS (excluding 5 patients lost to follow-up) were followed for a mean of 14.7 mo. Ascites and/or hydrothorax was controlled following technically successful procedures in 12 of 13 patients. Bleeding was controlled following technically successful procedures in 10 out of 11 patients. We have demonstrated that TIPS is an effective procedure to control refractory complications of portal hypertension in elderly patients.

Investigating single molecule adhesion by atomic force spectroscopy.

PubMed

Stetter, Frank W S; Kienle, Sandra; Krysiak, Stefanie; Hugel, Thorsten

2015-02-27

Atomic force spectroscopy is an ideal tool to study molecules at surfaces and interfaces. An experimental protocol to couple a large variety of single molecules covalently onto an AFM tip is presented. At the same time the AFM tip is passivated to prevent unspecific interactions between the tip and the substrate, which is a prerequisite to study single molecules attached to the AFM tip. Analyses to determine the adhesion force, the adhesion length, and the free energy of these molecules on solid surfaces and bio-interfaces are shortly presented and external references for further reading are provided. Example molecules are the poly(amino acid) polytyrosine, the graft polymer PI-g-PS and the phospholipid POPE (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine). These molecules are desorbed from different surfaces like CH3-SAMs, hydrogen terminated diamond and supported lipid bilayers under various solvent conditions. Finally, the advantages of force spectroscopic single molecule experiments are discussed including means to decide if truly a single molecule has been studied in the experiment.

Investigating Single Molecule Adhesion by Atomic Force Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Stetter, Frank W. S.; Kienle, Sandra; Krysiak, Stefanie; Hugel, Thorsten

2015-01-01

Atomic force spectroscopy is an ideal tool to study molecules at surfaces and interfaces. An experimental protocol to couple a large variety of single molecules covalently onto an AFM tip is presented. At the same time the AFM tip is passivated to prevent unspecific interactions between the tip and the substrate, which is a prerequisite to study single molecules attached to the AFM tip. Analyses to determine the adhesion force, the adhesion length, and the free energy of these molecules on solid surfaces and bio-interfaces are shortly presented and external references for further reading are provided. Example molecules are the poly(amino acid) polytyrosine, the graft polymer PI-g-PS and the phospholipid POPE (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine). These molecules are desorbed from different surfaces like CH3-SAMs, hydrogen terminated diamond and supported lipid bilayers under various solvent conditions. Finally, the advantages of force spectroscopic single molecule experiments are discussed including means to decide if truly a single molecule has been studied in the experiment. PMID:25867282

Teaching & Learning Tips 1: Teaching perspectives - an introduction.

PubMed

Rana, Jasmine; Burgin, Susan

2017-11-01

Challenge: Clinical and research responsibilities often leave little or no time to plan thoughtful teaching encounters with trainees. This "Teaching & Learning Tips" series is designed to be an accessible guide for dermatologists who want to improve their teaching skills. It is comprised of 12 articles about how to enhance teaching in various settings informed by research about how people learn and expert-derived or data-driven best practices for teaching. The series begins with a review of principles to optimize learning in any setting, including cognitive load theory, active learning strategies, and the impact of motivation and emotion on learning. It transitions into a practical "how to" guide format for common teaching scenarios in dermatology, such as lecturing, case-based teaching, and teaching procedures, among others. Herein, we kickoff the series by unpacking assumptions about teaching and learning. What does it mean to teach and learn? © 2017 The International Society of Dermatology.

Probing the probe: AFM tip-profiling via nanotemplates to determine Hamaker constants from phase-distance curves.

PubMed

Rodriguez, Raul D; Lacaze, Emmanuelle; Jupille, Jacques

2012-10-01

A method to determine the van der Waals forces from phase-distance curves recorded by atomic force microscopy (AFM) in tapping mode is presented. The relationship between the phase shift and the tip-sample distance is expressed as a function of the product of the Hamaker constant by tip radius. Silica-covered silicon tips are used to probe silica-covered silicon substrate in dry conditions to avoid capillary effects. Tips being assumed spherical, radii are determined in situ by averaging profiles recorded in different directions on hematite nanocrystals acting as nanotemplates, thus accounting for tip anisotropy. Through a series of reproducible measurements performed with tips of various radii (including the in-situ characterization of a damaged tip), a value of (6.3±0.4)×10(-20) J is found for the Hamaker constant of interacting silica surfaces in air, in good agreement with tabulated data. The results demonstrate that the onset of the tip-surface interaction is dominated by the van der Waals forces and that the total force can be modeled in the framework of the harmonic approximation. Based on the tip radius and the Hamaker constant associated to the tip-substrate system, the model is quite flexible. Once the Hamaker constant is known, a direct estimate of the tip size can be achieved whereas when the tip size is known, a quantitative evaluation of the van der Waals force becomes possible on different substrates with a spatial resolution at the nanoscale. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sample Acquisition and Handling System from a Remote Platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Badescu, Mircea; Sherrit, Stewart; Jones, Jack A.

2011-01-01

A system has been developed to acquire and handle samples from a suspended remote platform. The system includes a penetrator, a penetrator deployment mechanism, and a sample handler. A gravity-driven harpoon sampler was used for the system, but other solutions can be used to supply the penetration energy, such as pyrotechnic, pressurized gas, or springs. The deployment mechanism includes a line that is attached to the penetrator, a spool for reeling in the line, and a line engagement control mechanism. The penetrator has removable tips that can collect liquid, ice, or solid samples. The handling mechanism consists of a carousel that can store a series of identical or different tips, assist in penetrator reconfiguration for multiple sample acquisition, and deliver the sample to a series of instruments for analysis. The carousel sample handling system was combined with a brassboard reeling mechanism and a penetrator with removable tips. It can attach the removable tip to the penetrator, release and retrieve the penetrator, remove the tip, and present it to multiple instrument stations. The penetrator can be remotely deployed from an aerobot, penetrate and collect the sample, and be retrieved with the sample to the aerobot. The penetrator with removable tips includes sample interrogation windows and a sample retainment spring for unconsolidated samples. The line engagement motor can be used to control the penetrator release and reeling engagement, and to evenly distribute the line on the spool by rocking between left and right ends of the spool. When the arm with the guiding ring is aligned with the spool axis, the line is free to unwind from the spool without rotating the spool. When the arm is perpendicular to the spool axis, the line can move only if the spool rotates.

UTILIZATION OF T-RFLP (TERMINAL RESTRICTION FRAGMENT LENGTH POLYMORPHISM) TO CHARACTERIZE MIXED ECTOMYCORRHIZAL FUNGAL COMMUNITIES

EPA Science Inventory

Studies of ectomycorrhizal community structure have used a variety of analytical regimens including sole or partial reliance on gross morphological characterization of colonized root tips. Depending on the rigor of the classification protocol, this technique can incorrectly assig...

Evaluation of a suicide prevention training curriculum for substance abuse treatment providers based on Treatment Improvement Protocol Number 50 (TIP 50)

PubMed Central

Conner, Kenneth R.; Wood, Jane; Pisani, Anthony R.; Kemp, Janet

2013-01-01

Substance use disorders (SUD) confer risk for suicide yet there are no empirically supported suicide prevention training curricula tailored to SUD treatment providers. We assessed the efficacy of a 2-hour training that featured a suicide prevention training video produced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The video was based on Treatment Improvement Protocol Number 50, TIP 50, a practical manual to manage suicide risk produced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The training was provided in small groups to 273 SUD treatment providers in 18 states. Results were evaluated using self-report assessments obtained at pre-test, post-test, and 2-month follow-up. Statistically significant changes (p<.001) within subjects were obtained on self-efficacy, knowledge, and frequency of suicide prevention practice behaviors. The positive results together with the brevity of the training and its ease of implementation indicate high potential for widespread adoption and the importance of further study. PMID:22417671

Light Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy Quantifies Calcium Oscillations in Root Hairs of Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Candeo, Alessia; Doccula, Fabrizio G; Valentini, Gianluca; Bassi, Andrea; Costa, Alex

2017-07-01

Calcium oscillations play a role in the regulation of the development of tip-growing plant cells. Using optical microscopy, calcium oscillations have been observed in a few systems (e.g. pollen tubes, fungal hyphae and algal rhizoids). High-resolution, non-phototoxic and rapid imaging methods are required to study the calcium oscillation in root hairs. We show that light sheet fluorescence microscopy is optimal to image growing root hairs of Arabidopsis thaliana and to follow their oscillatory tip-focused calcium gradient. We describe a protocol for performing live imaging of root hairs in seedlings expressing the cytosol-localized ratiometric calcium indicator Yellow Cameleon 3.6. Using this protocol, we measured the calcium gradient in a large number of root hairs. We characterized their calcium oscillations and correlated them with the rate of hair growth. The method was then used to screen the effect of auxin on the properties of the growing root hairs. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists.

Transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt in the elderly: Palliation for complications of portal hypertension

PubMed Central

Syed, Mubin I; Karsan, Hetal; Ferral, Hector; Shaikh, Azim; Waheed, Uzma; Akhter, Talal; Gabbard, Alan; Morar, Kamal; Tyrrell, Robert

2012-01-01

AIM: To present a dedicated series of transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunts (TIPS) in the elderly since data is sparse on this population group. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of patients at least 65 years of age who underwent TIPS at our institutions between 1997 and 2010. Twenty-five patients were referred for TIPS. We deemed that 2 patients were not considered appropriate candidates due to their markedly advanced liver disease. Of the 23 patients suitable for TIPS, the indications for TIPS placement was portal hypertension complicated by refractory ascites alone (n = 9), hepatic hydrothorax alone (n = 2), refractory ascites and hydrothorax (n = 1), gastrointestinal bleeding alone (n = 8), gastrointestinal bleeding and ascites (n = 3). RESULTS: Of these 23 attempted TIPS procedure patients, 21 patients had technically successful TIPS procedures. A total of 29 out of 32 TIPS procedures including revisions were successful in 21 patients with a mean age of 72.1 years (range 65-82 years). Three of the procedures were unsuccessful attempts at TIPS and 8 procedures were successful revisions of our existing TIPS. Sixteen of 21 patients who underwent successful TIPS (excluding 5 patients lost to follow-up) were followed for a mean of 14.7 mo. Ascites and/or hydrothorax was controlled following technically successful procedures in 12 of 13 patients. Bleeding was controlled following technically successful procedures in 10 out of 11 patients. CONCLUSION: We have demonstrated that TIPS is an effective procedure to control refractory complications of portal hypertension in elderly patients. PMID:22400084

Exploring bird aerodynamics using radio-controlled models.

PubMed

Hoey, Robert G

2010-12-01

A series of radio-controlled glider models was constructed by duplicating the aerodynamic shape of soaring birds (raven, turkey vulture, seagull and pelican). Controlled tests were conducted to determine the level of longitudinal and lateral-directional static stability, and to identify the characteristics that allowed flight without a vertical tail. The use of tail-tilt for controlling small bank-angle changes, as observed in soaring birds, was verified. Subsequent tests, using wing-tip ailerons, inferred that birds use a three-dimensional flow pattern around the wing tip (wing tip vortices) to control adverse yaw and to create a small amount of forward thrust in gliding flight.

Endodontic Treatment of an Autogenous Transplanted Tooth Using an Er,Cr:YSGG Laser and Radial Firing Tips: Case Report.

PubMed

Martins, Miguel Rodrigues; Lima, Rita C; Pina-Vaz, Irene; Carvalho, Manuel Fontes; Gutknecht, Norbert

2016-10-01

Although several surgical techniques have been reported, no study has yet reported alternative strategies for endodontic treatment of autogenous transplanted teeth. Therefore, the aim of this clinical report is to present the long-term endodontic outcome of a nonvital autogenously transplanted third molar treated with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser and radial firing tips (RFTs). Autogenous tooth transplantation can be considered an alternative to restore edentulous areas and, in donor's teeth with complete root formation, root canal treatment should be performed up to 14 days following transplantation. In the present case report, the patient returned only after 6 months, with clinical and radiological signs of apical periodontitis (AP) associated with the transplanted tooth. Instead of traditional endodontic chemical irrigants or medications, the protocol for smear-layer removal and root canal disinfection was based on intracanal irradiation with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser and RFTs. After 3-years' follow-up, the complete reestablishment of the periodontal ligament and the arrest of the resorptive process could be noticed. This protocol has shown to be effective for the endodontic treatment of a transplanted multi-rooted tooth with AP. Further randomized clinical trials should be conducted to clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of this laser-assisted endodontic protocol.

Teaching Introductory Psychology: Tips from "ToP"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griggs, Richard A., Ed.; Jackson, Sherri L., Ed.

2011-01-01

This book follows in the footsteps of the first three volumes in the "Handbook for Teaching Introductory Psychology" series. In the prefaces to these volumes, the various editors all stressed two major points relevant to the development of this series. These comments also apply to this book. First, introductory psychology is one of the most…

Dynamic Pressure Probes Developed for Supersonic Flow-Field Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Porro, A. Robert

2001-01-01

A series of dynamic flow-field pressure probes were developed for use in large-scale supersonic wind tunnels at the NASA Glenn Research Center. These flow-field probes include pitot and static pressure probes that can capture fast-acting flow-field pressure transients occurring on a millisecond timescale. The pitot and static probes can be used to determine local Mach number time histories during a transient event. The flow-field pressure probe contains four major components: 1) Static pressure aerodynamic tip; 2) Pressure-sensing cartridge assembly; 3) Pitot pressure aerodynamic tip; 4) Mounting stem. This modular design allows for a variety of probe tips to be used for a specific application. Here, the focus is on flow-field pressure measurements in supersonic flows, so we developed a cone-cylinder static pressure tip and a pitot pressure tip. Alternatively, probe tips optimized for subsonic and transonic flows could be used with this design. The pressure-sensing cartridge assembly allows the simultaneous measurement of steady-state and transient pressure which allows continuous calibration of the dynamic pressure transducer.

Cryopreservation of in vitro grown shoot tips and apical meristems of the forage legume Arachis pintoi.

PubMed

Rey, Hebe Y; Faloci, Mirta; Medina, Ricardo; Dolce, Natalia; Mroginski, Luis; Engelmann, Florent

2009-01-01

A cryopreservation protocol using the encapsulation-dehydration procedure was established for shoot tips (2-3 mm in length) and meristems (0.3-0.5 mm) sampled from in vitro plantlets of diploid and triploid cytotypes of Arachis pintoi. The optimal protocol was the following: after dissection, explants were precultured for 24 h on establishment medium (EM), encapsulated in calcium alginate beads and pretreated in liquid EM medium with daily increasing sucrose concentration (0.5, 0.75, 1.0 M) and desiccated to 22-23 percent moisture content (fresh weight basis). Explants were frozen using slow cooling (1 C per min from 25C to -30C followed by direct immersion in liquid nitrogen), thawed rapidly and post-cultured in liquid EM medium enriched with daily decreasing sucrose concentrations (0.75, 0.50, 0.1 M). Explants were then transferred to solid EM medium in order to achieve shoot regeneration, then on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 0.05 microM naphthalene acetic acid to induce rooting of shoots. With this procedure, 53 percent and 56 percent of cryopreserved shoot tips of the diploid and triploid cytotypes, respectively, survived and formed plants. However, only 16 percent of cryopreserved meristems of both cytotypes regenerated plants. Using ten isozyme systems and seven RAPD profiles, no modification induced by cryopreservation could be detected in plantlets regenerated from cryopreserved material.

Use of Anti-phospho-girdin Antibodies to Visualize Intestinal Tuft Cells in Free-Floating Mouse Jejunum Cryosections

PubMed Central

Mizutani, Yuka; Kuga, Daisuke; Iida, Machiko; Ushida, Kaori; Takagi, Tsuyoshi; Tokita, Yoshihito; Takahashi, Masahide; Asai, Masato

2018-01-01

The actin binding protein girdin is a cytosolic protein that is required for actin remodeling to trigger cell migration in various tissues. Girdin is phosphorylated by both receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases at tyrosine 1798. Omori et al. developed site- and phosphorylation status-specific antibodies against human girdin at tyrosine-1798 (pY1798), which specifically bind to phosphorylated tyrosine-1798, but not to unphosphorylated tyrosine-1798. pY1798 antibodies have been used to specifically label tuft cells (TCs) that are present in mammalian gastrointestinal tissues, but the function of these cells is unclear. This protocol allows the robust visualization of TCs in the jejunum using pY1798 antibodies and immunofluorescence. To ensure successful and simple TC visualization, this protocol includes two histological techniques: production of free-floating cryosections from gelatin-filled jejunum tissue, and low-temperature antigen retrieval at 50 °C for 3 h. Filling the jejunum with gelatin maintains the shape of free-floating sections throughout the staining procedure, whereas low-temperature antigen retrieval ensures robust signals from TCs. Successful use of this protocol results in pY1798 staining of TCs distributed from villus tip to crypt. Stained TCs have a spool-shaped soma and fluorescent signals condense at the lumenal tip, which corresponds to the protruding 'tuft.' Phalloidin staining colocalized with pY1798-positive TCs at the thickened brush border, and corresponds to a rootlet mass extending from the TC tuft. This protocol could be used to examine TCs in human biopsy samples collected with gastrointestinal endoscopes. Furthermore, TCs were recently reported to accumulate following parasite infection in mice, suggesting that this protocol could have applications for diagnosis of parasite infections in the human gut. PMID:29630055

Use of Anti-phospho-girdin Antibodies to Visualize Intestinal Tuft Cells in Free-Floating Mouse Jejunum Cryosections.

PubMed

Mizutani, Yuka; Kuga, Daisuke; Iida, Machiko; Ushida, Kaori; Takagi, Tsuyoshi; Tokita, Yoshihito; Takahashi, Masahide; Asai, Masato

2018-03-21

The actin binding protein girdin is a cytosolic protein that is required for actin remodeling to trigger cell migration in various tissues. Girdin is phosphorylated by both receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases at tyrosine 1798. Omori et al. developed site- and phosphorylation status-specific antibodies against human girdin at tyrosine-1798 (pY1798), which specifically bind to phosphorylated tyrosine-1798, but not to unphosphorylated tyrosine-1798. pY1798 antibodies have been used to specifically label tuft cells (TCs) that are present in mammalian gastrointestinal tissues, but the function of these cells is unclear. This protocol allows the robust visualization of TCs in the jejunum using pY1798 antibodies and immunofluorescence. To ensure successful and simple TC visualization, this protocol includes two histological techniques: production of free-floating cryosections from gelatin-filled jejunum tissue, and low-temperature antigen retrieval at 50 °C for 3 h. Filling the jejunum with gelatin maintains the shape of free-floating sections throughout the staining procedure, whereas low-temperature antigen retrieval ensures robust signals from TCs. Successful use of this protocol results in pY1798 staining of TCs distributed from villus tip to crypt. Stained TCs have a spool-shaped soma and fluorescent signals condense at the lumenal tip, which corresponds to the protruding 'tuft.' Phalloidin staining colocalized with pY1798-positive TCs at the thickened brush border, and corresponds to a rootlet mass extending from the TC tuft. This protocol could be used to examine TCs in human biopsy samples collected with gastrointestinal endoscopes. Furthermore, TCs were recently reported to accumulate following parasite infection in mice, suggesting that this protocol could have applications for diagnosis of parasite infections in the human gut.

A Draft Test Protocol for Detecting Possible Biohazards in Martian Samples Returned to Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, John D. (Editor); Race, Margaret S.; DeVincenzi, Donald L.; Schad, P. Jackson; Stabekis, Pericles D.; Viso, Michel; Acevedo, Sara E.

2002-01-01

This document presents the first complete draft of a protocol for detecting possible biohazards in Mars samples returned to Earth: it is the final product of the Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series. convened in 2000-2001 by NASA's Planetary Protection Officer. The goal of the five-workshop Series vas to develop a comprehensive protocol by which returned martian sample materials could be assessed k r the presence of any biological hazard(s) while safeguarding the purity of the samples from possible terrestrial contamination.

Intramolecular bonds resolved on a semiconductor surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sweetman, Adam; Jarvis, Samuel P.; Rahe, Philipp; Champness, Neil R.; Kantorovich, Lev; Moriarty, Philip

2014-10-01

Noncontact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM) is now routinely capable of obtaining submolecular resolution, readily resolving the carbon backbone structure of planar organic molecules adsorbed on metal substrates. Here we show that the same resolution may also be obtained for molecules adsorbed on a reactive semiconducting substrate. Surprisingly, this resolution is routinely obtained without the need for deliberate tip functionalization. Intriguingly, we observe two chemically distinct apex types capable of submolecular imaging. We characterize our tip apices by "inverse imaging" of the silicon adatoms of the Si (111)-7×7 surface and support our findings with detailed density functional theory (DFT) calculations. We also show that intramolecular resolution on individual molecules may be readily obtained at 78 K, rather than solely at 5 K as previously demonstrated. Our results suggest a wide range of tips may be capable of producing intramolecular contrast for molecules adsorbed on semiconductor surfaces, leading to a much broader applicability for submolecular imaging protocols.

A comparative assessment of R. M. Young and tipping bucket rain gauges

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, Julius; Gebo, Norman E.

1992-01-01

Rain rates as derived from standard tipping bucket rain gauges have variable integration times corresponding to the interval between bucket tips. For example, the integration time for the Weathertronics rain gauge is given by delta(T) = 15.24/R (min), where R is the rain rate expressed in mm/h and delta(T) is the time between tips expressed in minutes. It is apparent that a rain rate of 1 mm/h has an integration time in excess of 15 minutes. Rain rates larger than 15.24 mm/h will have integration times smaller than 1 minute. The integration time is dictated by the time it takes to fill a small tipping bucket where each tip gives rise to 0.254 mm of rainfall. Hence, a uniform rain rate of 1 mm/h over a 15 minute period will give rise to the same rain rate as 0 mm/h rainfall over the first 14 minutes and 15 mm/h between 14 to 15 minutes from the reference tip. Hence, the rain intensity fluctuations may not be captured with the tipping bucket rain gauge for highly variable rates encompassing lower and higher values over a given integration time. The objective of this effort is to provide an assessment of the features of the R. M. Young capacitive gauge and to compare these features with those of the standard tipping bucket rain gauge. A number of rain rate-time series derived from measurements with approximately co-located gauges are examined.

LONG-TERM PRECONDITIONING OF PLANTLETS: A PRACTICAL METHOD FOR ENHANCING SURVIVAL OF PINEAPPLE (Ananas comosus Merr.) SHOOT TIPS CRYOPRESERVED USING VITRIFICATION.

PubMed

Hu, W H; Liu, S F; Liaw, S I

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient cryopreservation protocol for pineapple (Ananas comosus Merr.) shoot tips. The optimal state of pineapple plantlets was investigated by using sucrose preconditioning to enhance survival after cryostorage. To achieve a suitable state of plantlets before cryopreservation, 0.2 M to 0.4 M sucrose concentrations combined with short- (0-7 days), medium- (15-30 days), and long-term (75-150 days) preconditioning periods were compared. The highest survival (100 %) was achieved using the following procedure: intact plantlets underwent long-term preconditioning with 0.2 M sucrose for 135 days, dissected shoot tips were treated with a loading solution containing 2.0 M glycerol + 0.4 M sucrose for 60 min at 25 degree and the shoot tips were dehydrated in PVS2 for 2h at 0 degree C before being plunged in liquid nitrogen. Rewarming was conducted in a water-bath for 30 s at 40 degree C and PVS2 was replaced with a 1.2 M sucrose solution for 30 min at 25 degree C. The shoot tips were transferred on semisolid medium and left in the dark for 1 week, then in dim light for 3 weeks.

Study of mechanical behavior of AFM silicon tips under mechanical load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kopycinska-Mueller, M.; Gluch, J.; Köhler, B.

2016-11-01

In this paper we address critical issues concerning calibration of AFM based methods used for nanoscale mechanical characterization of materials. It has been shown that calibration approaches based on macroscopic models for contact mechanics may yield excellent results in terms of the indentation modulus of the sample, but fail to provide a comprehensive and actual information concerning the tip-sample contact radius or the mechanical properties of the tip. Explanations for the severely reduced indentation modulus of the tip included the inadequacies of the models used for calculations of the tip-sample contact stiffness, discrepancies in the actual and ideal shape of the tip, presence of the amorphous silicon phase within the silicon tip, as well as negligence of the actual size of the stress field created in the tip during elastic interactions. To clarify these issues, we investigated the influence of the mechanical load applied to four AFM silicon tips on their crystalline state by exposing them to systematically increasing loads, evaluating the character of the tip-sample interactions via the load-unload stiffness curves, and assessing the state of the tips from HR-TEM images. The results presented in this paper were obtained in a series of relatively simple and basic atomic force acoustic microscopy (AFAM) experiments. The novel combination of TEM imaging of the AFM tips with the analysis of the load-unload stiffness curves gave us a detailed insight into their mechanical behavior under load conditions. We were able to identify the limits for the elastic interactions, as well as the hallmarks for phase transformation and dislocation formation and movement. The comparison of the physical dimensions of the AFM tips, geometry parameters determined from the values of the contact stiffness, and the information on the crystalline state of the tips allowed us a better understanding of the nanoscale contact.

FSSC Science Tools: Pulsar Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, Dave

2010-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the typical pulsar analysis, giving tips for screening of the data, the use of time series analysis, and utility tools. Specific information about analyzing Vela data is reviewed.

Method and apparatus for electrospark deposition

DOEpatents

Bailey, Jeffrey A.; Johnson, Roger N.; Park, Walter R.; Munley, John T.

2004-12-28

A method and apparatus for controlling electrospark deposition (ESD) comprises using electrical variable waveforms from the ESD process as a feedback parameter. The method comprises measuring a plurality of peak amplitudes from a series of electrical energy pulses delivered to an electrode tip. The maximum peak value from among the plurality of peak amplitudes correlates to the contact force between the electrode tip and a workpiece. The method further comprises comparing the maximum peak value to a set point to determine an offset and optimizing the contact force according to the value of the offset. The apparatus comprises an electrode tip connected to an electrical energy wave generator and an electrical signal sensor, which connects to a high-speed data acquisition card. An actuator provides relative motion between the electrode tip and a workpiece by receiving a feedback drive signal from a processor that is operably connected to the actuator and the high-speed data acquisition card.

A new algorithm for primary hypospadias repair based on tip urethroplasty.

PubMed

Sozubir, Selami; Snodgrass, Warren

2003-08-01

Decision making in hypospadias repair potentially can be simplified by tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty. The authors report management and outcomes in a consecutive series of primary hypospadias repairs in which the intent was to perform TIP. Records of 106 consecutive boys undergoing hypospadias repair by 1 surgeon were reviewed. Position of the meatus, degree and management of curvature, technical details of the urethroplasty, and postoperative complications were recorded. Curvature was noted in 24 (23%) of patients, but could be corrected with preservation of the urethral plate in all but 3. In another boy, the incised plate was thought "unhealthy" for tubularization. The remaining 102 underwent TIP, of whom, 75 had distal and 27 had proximal hypospadias. Complications, primarily fistulas, occurred in 14 (13%) of these patients. The other 4 boys underwent staged repairs that utilized TIP for the glanular urethra at the second operation. The authors found decision making was no longer determined by meatal location as in the past, but by severity of curvature and appearance of the incised urethral plate. Because severe curvature requiring plate transection or an "unhealthy" incised plate are uncommonly encountered, TIP repair can be performed for most hypospadias operations.

Identification of a highly successful cryopreservation method (droplet-vitrification) for petunia

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Petunia (Petunia × hybrida Vilm.) is a very important crop conserved in the National Genebank of China. Petunia cultivar “Niu 2” was used to develop a droplet-vitrification protocol to cryopreserve shoot tips. Six variables (age of the in vitro plants, concentration of sucrose in the preculture solu...

Use of protoplast, cell, and shoot tip culture in an elm germ plasm improvement program

Treesearch

R. Daniel Lineberger; M.B. Sticklen; P.M. Pijut; Mark A. Kroggel; C.V.M. Fink; S.C. Domir

1990-01-01

An elm germplasm improvement program was established using three distinct approaches: (1) development of protoplast regeneration protocols with the goal of attempting somatic hybridization between Ulmus americana and disease resistant hybrids; (2) evaluation of the extent of somaclonal variation in plants regenerated from protoplasts; and (3)...

A Draft Test Protocol for Detecting Possible Biohazards in Martian Samples Returned to Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, John D.; Race, Margaret S.; DeVinenzi, Donald L.; Schad, P. Jackson; Stabekis, Pericles D.; Viso, Michel; Acevedo, Sara E.

2002-01-01

This document presents the first complete draft of a protocol for detecting possible biohazards in Mars samples returned to Earth; it is the final product of the Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series, convened in 2000-2001 by NASA's Planetary Protection Officer. The goal of the five-workshop Series vas to develop a comprehensive protocol by which returned martian sample materials could be assessed for the presence of any biological hazard(s) while safeguarding the purity of the samples from possible terrestrial contamination The reference numbers for the proceedings from the five individual Workshops.

Effective Use of Films in Social Studies Classrooms. How To Do It Series, Series 2, No. 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bryan, Sam

The pamphlet reviews uses of films in social studies classrooms, lists sources for obtaining films and filmographies, and gives tips on showing and evaluating the films. Films can be used to illustrate concepts or historical events, communicate the essence of foreign cultures, and enliven dull textbook content. Five types of films are described…

'On Your Feet to Earn Your Seat', a habit-based intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour in older adults: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Gardner, Benjamin; Thuné-Boyle, Ingela; Iliffe, Steve; Fox, Kenneth R; Jefferis, Barbara J; Hamer, Mark; Tyler, Nick; Wardle, Jane

2014-09-20

Many older adults are both highly sedentary (that is, spend considerable amounts of time sitting) and physically inactive (that is, do little physical activity). This protocol describes an exploratory trial of a theory-based behaviour change intervention in the form of a booklet outlining simple activities ('tips') designed both to reduce sedentary behaviour and to increase physical activity in older adults. The intervention is based on the 'habit formation' model, which proposes that consistent repetition leads to behaviour becoming automatic, sustaining activity gains over time. The intervention is being developed iteratively, in line with Medical Research Council complex intervention guidelines. Selection of activity tips was informed by semi-structured interviews and focus groups with older adults, and input from a multidisciplinary expert panel. An ongoing preliminary field test of acceptability among 25 older adults will inform further refinement. An exploratory randomized controlled trial will be conducted within a primary care setting, comparing the tips booklet with a control fact sheet. Retired, inactive and sedentary adults (n = 120) aged 60 to 74 years, with no physical impairments precluding light physical activity, will be recruited from general practices in north London, UK. The primary outcomes are recruitment and attrition rates. Secondary outcomes are changes in behaviour, habit, health and wellbeing over 12 weeks. Data will be used to inform study procedures for a future, larger-scale definitive randomized controlled trial. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN47901994.

Evaluation of Methods to Improve the Extraction and Recovery of DNA from Cotton Swabs for Forensic Analysis

PubMed Central

Adamowicz, Michael S.; Stasulli, Dominique M.; Sobestanovich, Emily M.; Bille, Todd W.

2014-01-01

Samples for forensic DNA analysis are often collected from a wide variety of objects using cotton or nylon tipped swabs. Testing has shown that significant quantities of DNA are retained on the swab, however, and subsequently lost. When processing evidentiary samples, the recovery of the maximum amount of available DNA is critical, potentially dictating whether a usable profile can be derived from a piece of evidence or not. The QIAamp DNA Investigator extraction kit was used with its recommended protocol for swabs (one hour incubation at 56°C) as a baseline. Results indicate that over 50% of the recoverable DNA may be retained on the cotton swab tip, or otherwise lost, for both blood and buccal cell samples when using this protocol. The protocol’s incubation time and temperature were altered, as was incubating while shaking or stationary to test for increases in recovery efficiency. An additional step was then tested that included periodic re-suspension of the swab tip in the extraction buffer during incubation. Aliquots of liquid blood or a buccal cell suspension were deposited and dried on cotton swabs and compared with swab-less controls. The concentration of DNA in each extract was quantified and STR analysis was performed to assess the quality of the extracted DNA. Stationary incubations and those performed at 65°C did not result in significant gains in DNA yield. Samples incubated for 24 hours yielded less DNA. Increased yields were observed with three and 18 hour incubation periods. Increases in DNA yields were also observed using a swab re-suspension method for both cell types. The swab re-suspension method yielded an average two-fold increase in recovered DNA yield with buccal cells and an average three-fold increase with blood cells. These findings demonstrate that more of the DNA collected on swabs can be recovered with specific protocol alterations. PMID:25549111

Calibrated work function mapping by Kelvin probe force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández Garrillo, Pablo A.; Grévin, Benjamin; Chevalier, Nicolas; Borowik, Łukasz

2018-04-01

We propose and demonstrate the implementation of an alternative work function tip calibration procedure for Kelvin probe force microscopy under ultrahigh vacuum, using monocrystalline metallic materials with known crystallographic orientation as reference samples, instead of the often used highly oriented pyrolytic graphite calibration sample. The implementation of this protocol allows the acquisition of absolute and reproducible work function values, with an improved uncertainty with respect to unprepared highly oriented pyrolytic graphite-based protocols. The developed protocol allows the local investigation of absolute work function values over nanostructured samples and can be implemented in electronic structures and devices characterization as demonstrated over a nanostructured semiconductor sample presenting Al0.7Ga0.3As and GaAs layers with variable thickness. Additionally, using our protocol we find that the work function of annealed highly oriented pyrolytic graphite is equal to 4.6 ± 0.03 eV.

Development of the NEDO implantable ventricular assist device with Gyro centrifugal pump.

PubMed

Yoshikawa, M; Nonaka, K; Linneweber, J; Kawahito, S; Ohtsuka, G; Nakata, K; Takano, T; Schulte-Eistrup, S; Glueck, J; Schima, H; Wolner, E; Nosé, Y

2000-06-01

The Gyro centrifugal pump, PI (permanently implantable) series, is being developed as a totally implantable artificial heart. Our final goal is to establish a "functional TAH," a totally implantable biventricular assist system (BiVAS) with centrifugal pumps. A plastic prototype pump, Gyro PI 601, was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies as a single ventricular assist device (VAD). Based upon these results, the pump head material was converted to a titanium alloy, and the actuator was modified. These titanium Gyro pumps, PI 700 series, also were subjected to in vitro and in vivo studies. The Gyro PI 601 and PI 700 series have the same inner dimensions and characteristics, such as the eccentric inlet port, double pivot bearing system, secondary vane, and magnet coupling system; however, the material of the PI 700 is different from the PI 601. The Gyro PI series is driven by the Vienna DC brushless motor actuator. The inlet cannula of the right ventricular assist system (RVAS) specially made for this system consists of 2 parts: a hat-shaped silicone tip biolized with gelatin and an angled wire reinforced tube made of polyvinylchloride. The pump-actuator package was implanted into 8 calves in the preperitoneal space, bypassing from the left ventricle apex to the descending aorta for the left ventricular assist system (LVAS) and bypassing the right ventricle to the main pulmonary artery for the RVAS. According to the PI 601 feasibility protocol, 2 LVAS cases were terminated after 2 weeks, and 1 LVAS case and 1 RVAS were terminated after 1 month. The PI 700 series was implanted into 4 cases: 3 LVAS cases survived for a long term, 2 of them over 200 days (72-283 days), and 1 RVAS case survived for 1 month and was terminated according to the protocol for a short-term antithrombogenic screening and system feasibility study. Regarding power consumption, the plastic pump cases demonstrated from 6.2 to 12.1 W as LVAS and 7.3 W as RVAS, the titanium pump cases showed from 10.4 to 14.2 W as LVAS and 15.8 W as RVAS. All cases exhibited low hemolysis. The renal function and the liver function were maintained normally in all cases throughout these experimental periods. In the 2 RVAS cases, pulmonary function was normally maintained. No calves demonstrated thromboembolic signs or symptoms throughout the experiments except Case 1 with the plastic pump. However, in the plastic pump cases, bilateral renal infarction was suspected in 2 cases during necropsy whereas no abnormal findings were revealed in the titanium pump cases. There were also no blood clots inside the PI 700 series. As for the 601, the explanted pumps demonstrated slight thrombus formations at the top and bottom pivots except in 1 case. The Gyro PI series, especially the PI 700 series, demonstrated superior performance, biocompatibility, antithrombogenicity and low hemolysis. Also, the durability of the actuator was demonstrated. Based on these results, this titanium centrifugal pump is suitable as an implantable LVAS and RVAS. It is likely that the Gyro PI series is a feasible component of the BiVAS functional TAH.

Tips for Teachers of Evidence-based Medicine: Clinical Prediction Rules (CPRs) and Estimating Pretest Probability

PubMed Central

McGinn, Thomas; Jervis, Ramiro; Wisnivesky, Juan; Keitz, Sheri

2008-01-01

Background Clinical prediction rules (CPR) are tools that clinicians can use to predict the most likely diagnosis, prognosis, or response to treatment in a patient based on individual characteristics. CPRs attempt to standardize, simplify, and increase the accuracy of clinicians’ diagnostic and prognostic assessments. The teaching tips series is designed to give teachers advice and materials they can use to attain specific educational objectives. Educational Objectives In this article, we present 3 teaching tips aimed at helping clinical learners use clinical prediction rules and to more accurately assess pretest probability in every day practice. The first tip is designed to demonstrate variability in physician estimation of pretest probability. The second tip demonstrates how the estimate of pretest probability influences the interpretation of diagnostic tests and patient management. The third tip exposes learners to various examples and different types of Clinical Prediction Rules (CPR) and how to apply them in practice. Pilot Testing We field tested all 3 tips with 16 learners, a mix of interns and senior residents. Teacher preparatory time was approximately 2 hours. The field test utilized a board and a data projector; 3 handouts were prepared. The tips were felt to be clear and the educational objectives reached. Potential teaching pitfalls were identified. Conclusion Teaching with these tips will help physicians appreciate the importance of applying evidence to their every day decisions. In 2 or 3 short teaching sessions, clinicians can also become familiar with the use of CPRs in applying evidence consistently in everyday practice. PMID:18491194

Using natural archives to detect climate and environmental tipping points in the Earth System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Zoë A.

2016-11-01

'Tipping points' in the Earth system are characterised by a nonlinear response to gradual forcing, and may have severe and wide-ranging impacts. Many abrupt events result from simple underlying system dynamics termed 'critical transitions' or 'bifurcations'. One of the best ways to identify and potentially predict threshold behaviour in the climate system is through analysis of natural ('palaeo') archives. Specifically, on the approach to a tipping point, early warning signals can be detected as characteristic fluctuations in a time series as a system loses stability. Testing whether these early warning signals can be detected in highly complex real systems is a key challenge, since much work is either theoretical or only tested with simple models. This is particularly problematic in palaeoclimate and palaeoenvironmental records with low resolution, non-equidistant data, which can limit accurate analysis. Here, a range of different datasets are examined to explore generic rules that can be used to detect such dramatic events. A number of key criteria are identified to be necessary for the reliable identification of early warning signals in natural archives, most crucially, the need for a low-noise record of sufficient data length, resolution and accuracy. A deeper understanding of the underlying system dynamics is required to inform the development of more robust system-specific indicators, or to indicate the temporal resolution required, given a known forcing. This review demonstrates that time series precursors from natural archives provide a powerful means of forewarning tipping points within the Earth System.

Energy dissipation in the blade tip region of an axial fan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bizjan, B.; Milavec, M.; Širok, B.; Trenc, F.; Hočevar, M.

2016-11-01

A study of velocity and pressure fluctuations in the tip clearance flow of an axial fan is presented in this paper. Two different rotor blade tip designs were investigated: the standard one with straight blade tips and the modified one with swept-back tip winglets. Comparison of integral sound parameters indicates a significant noise level reduction for the modified blade tip design. To study the underlying mechanisms of the energy conversion and noise generation, a novel experimental method based on simultaneous measurements of local flow velocity and pressure has also been developed and is presented here. The method is based on the phase space analysis by the use of attractors, which enable more accurate identification and determination of the local flow structures and turbulent flow properties. Specific gap flow energy derived from the pressure and velocity time series was introduced as an additional attractor parameter to assess the flow energy distribution and dissipation within the phase space, and thus determines characteristic sources of the fan acoustic emission. The attractors reveal a more efficient conversion of the pressure to kinetic flow energy in the case of the modified (tip winglet) fan blade design, and also a reduction in emitted noise levels. The findings of the attractor analysis are in a good agreement with integral fan characteristics (efficiency and noise level), while offering a much more accurate and detailed representation of gap flow phenomena.

Tip Characterization Method using Multi-feature Characterizer for CD-AFM

PubMed Central

Orji, Ndubuisi G.; Itoh, Hiroshi; Wang, Chumei; Dixson, Ronald G.; Walecki, Peter S.; Schmidt, Sebastian W.; Irmer, Bernd

2016-01-01

In atomic force microscopy (AFM) metrology, the tip is a key source of uncertainty. Images taken with an AFM show a change in feature width and shape that depends on tip geometry. This geometric dilation is more pronounced when measuring features with high aspect ratios, and makes it difficult to obtain absolute dimensions. In order to accurately measure nanoscale features using an AFM, the tip dimensions should be known with a high degree of precision. We evaluate a new AFM tip characterizer, and apply it to critical dimension AFM (CD-AFM) tips used for high aspect ratio features. The characterizer is made up of comb-shaped lines and spaces, and includes a series of gratings that could be used as an integrated nanoscale length reference. We also demonstrate a simulation method that could be used to specify what range of tip sizes and shapes the characterizer can measure. Our experiments show that for non re-entrant features, the results obtained with this characterizer are consistent to 1 nm with the results obtained by using widely accepted but slower methods that are common practice in CD-AFM metrology. A validation of the integrated length standard using displacement interferometry indicates a uniformity of better than 0.75%, suggesting that the sample could be used as highly accurate and SI traceable lateral scale for the whole evaluation process. PMID:26720439

Endovascular Catheter for Magnetic Navigation under MR Imaging Guidance: Evaluation of Safety in Vivo at 1.5T

PubMed Central

Hetts, S.W.; Saeed, M.; Martin, A.J.; Evans, L.; Bernhardt, A.F.; Malba, V.; Settecase, F.; Do, L.; Yee, E.J.; Losey, A.; Sincic, R.; Roy, S.; Arenson, R.L.; Wilson, M.W.

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Endovascular navigation under MR imaging guidance can be facilitated by a catheter with steerable microcoils on the tip. Not only do microcoils create visible artifacts allowing catheter tracking, but also they create a small magnetic moment permitting remote-controlled catheter tip deflection. A side product of catheter tip electrical currents, however, is the heat that might damage blood vessels. We sought to determine the upper boundary of electrical currents safely usable at 1.5T in a coil-tipped microcatheter system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Alumina tubes with solenoid copper coils were attached to neurovascular microcatheters with heat shrink-wrap. Catheters were tested in carotid arteries of 8 pigs. The catheters were advanced under x-ray fluoroscopy and MR imaging. Currents from 0 mA to 700 mA were applied to test heating and potential vascular damage. Postmortem histologic analysis was the primary endpoint. RESULTS: Several heat-mitigation strategies demonstrated negligible vascular damage compared with control arteries. Coil currents ≤300 mA resulted in no damage (0/58 samples) compared with 9 (25%) of 36 samples for > 300-mA activations (P = .0001). Tip coil activation ≤1 minute and a proximal carotid guide catheter saline drip > 2 mL/minute also had a nonsignificantly lower likelihood of vascular damage. For catheter tip coil activations ≤300 mA for ≤1 minute in normal carotid flow, 0 of 43 samples had tissue damage. CONCLUSIONS: Activations of copper coils at the tip of microcatheters at low currents in 1.5T MR scanners can be achieved without significant damage to blood vessel walls in a controlled experimental setting. Further optimization of catheter design and procedure protocols is necessary for safe remote control magnetic catheter guidance. PMID:23846795

Calibration of ground-based microwave radiometers - Accuracy assessment and recommendations for network users

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pospichal, Bernhard; Küchler, Nils; Löhnert, Ulrich; Crewell, Susanne; Czekala, Harald; Güldner, Jürgen

2016-04-01

Ground-based microwave radiometers (MWR) are becoming widely used in atmospheric remote sensing and start to be routinely operated by national weather services and other institutions. However, common standards for calibration of these radiometers and a detailed knowledge about the error characteristics is needed, in order to assimilate the data into models. Intercomparisons of calibrations by different MWRs have rarely been done. Therefore, two calibration experiments in Lindenberg (2014) and Meckenheim (2015) were performed in the frame of TOPROF (Cost action ES1303) in order to assess uncertainties and differences between various instruments. In addition, a series of experiments were taken in Oklahoma in autumn 2014. The focus lay on the performance of the two main instrument types, which are currently used operationally. These are the MP-Profiler series by Radiometrics Corporation as well as the HATPRO series by Radiometer Physics GmbH (RPG). Both instrument types are operating in two frequency bands, one along the 22 GHz water vapour line, the other one at the lower wing of the 60 GHz oxygen absorption complex. The goal was to establish protocols for providing quality controlled (QC) MWR data and their uncertainties. To this end, standardized calibration procedures for MWR were developed and recommendations for radiometer users were compiled. We focus here mainly on data types, integration times and optimal settings for calibration intervals, both for absolute (liquid nitrogen, tipping curve) as well as relative (hot load, noise diode) calibrations. Besides the recommendations for ground-based MWR operators, we will present methods to determine the accuracy of the calibration as well as means for automatic data quality control. In addition, some results from the intercomparison of different radiometers will be discussed.

Vortex sensing tests at NAFEC.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1972-01-01

The report describes the results of a series of tests to determine and evaluate three experimental techniques for remote sensing of the wing-tip vortices generated by heavy commercial and military aircraft. These techniques involved a pulsed, bistati...

Efficient regeneration of sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, from shoot-tip explant.

PubMed

Syamala, D; Devi, Prathibha

2003-12-01

Novel protocols for production of multiple shoot-tip clumps and somatic embryos of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench were developed with long-term goal of crop improvement through genetic transformation. Multiple shoot-tip clumps were developed in vitro from shoot-tip explant of one-week old seedling, cultured on MS medium containing only BA (0.5, 1 or 2 mg/l) or both BA (1 or 2 mg/l) and 2,4-D (0.5 mg/l) with bi-weekly subculture. Somatic embryos were directly produced on the enlarged dome shaped growing structures that developed from the shoot-tips of one-week old seedling explants (without any callus formation) when cultured on MS medium supplemented with both 2,4-D (0.5 mg/l) and BA (0.5 mg/l). However, the supplementation of MS medium with only 2,4-D (0.5 mg/l) induced compact callus without any plantlet regeneration. Each multiple shoot-clump was capable of regenerating more than 80 shoots via an intensive differentiation of both axillary and adventitious shoot buds, the somatic embryos were capable of 90% germination, plant conversion and regeneration. The regenerated shoots could be efficiently rooted on MS medium containing indole-3-butyric acid (IBA 1 mg/l). The plants were successfully transplanted to glasshouse and grown to maturity with a survival rate of 98%. Morphogenetic response of the explants was found to be genotypically independent.

Forensic DNA typing from teeth using demineralized root tips.

PubMed

Corrêa, Heitor Simões Dutra; Pedro, Fabio Luis Miranda; Volpato, Luiz Evaristo Ricci; Pereira, Thiago Machado; Siebert Filho, Gilberto; Borges, Álvaro Henrique

2017-11-01

Teeth are widely used samples in forensic human genetic identification due to their persistence and practical sampling and processing. Their processing, however, has changed very little in the last 20 years, usually including powdering or pulverization of the tooth. The objective of this study was to present demineralized root tips as DNA sources while, at the same time, not involving powdering the samples or expensive equipment for teeth processing. One to five teeth from each of 20 unidentified human bodies recovered from midwest Brazil were analyzed. Whole teeth were demineralized in EDTA solution with daily solution change. After a maximum of approximately seven days, the final millimeters of the root tip was excised. This portion of the sample was used for DNA extraction through a conventional organic protocol. DNA quantification and STR amplification were performed using commercial kits followed by capillary electrophoresis on 3130 or 3500 genetic analyzers. For 60% of the unidentified bodies (12 of 20), a full genetic profile was obtained from the extraction of the first root tip. By the end of the analyses, full genetic profiles were obtained for 85% of the individuals studied, of which 80% were positively identified. This alternative low-tech approach for postmortem teeth processing is capable of extracting DNA in sufficient quantity and quality for forensic casework, showing that root tips are viable nuclear DNA sources even after demineralization. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Predicting mountain lion activity using radiocollars equipped with mercury tip-sensors

USGS Publications Warehouse

Janis, Michael W.; Clark, Joseph D.; Johnson, Craig

1999-01-01

Radiotelemetry collars with tip-sensors have long been used to monitor wildlife activity. However, comparatively few researchers have tested the reliability of the technique on the species being studied. To evaluate the efficacy of using tip-sensors to assess mountain lion (Puma concolor) activity, we radiocollared 2 hand-reared mountain lions and simultaneously recorded their behavior and the associated telemetry signal characteristics. We noted both the number of pulse-rate changes and the percentage of time the transmitter emitted a fast pulse rate (i.e., head up) within sampling intervals ranging from 1-5 minutes. Based on 27 hours of observations, we were able to correctly distinguish between active and inactive behaviors >93% of the time using a logistic regression model. We present several models to predict activity of mountain lions; the selection of which to us would depend on study objectives and logistics. Our results indicate that field protocols that use only pulse-rate changes to indicate activity can lead to significant classification errors.

Microcoil embolization during abdominal vascular interventions through microcatheters with a tip of 2 French or less.

PubMed

Miyayama, Shiro; Yamashiro, Masashi; Hattori, Yuki; Orito, Nobuaki; Matsui, Ken; Tsuji, Kazunobu; Yoshida, Miki; Matsui, Osamu

2011-05-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical aspects of embolization using microcoils through a microcatheter with a tip of 2F or smaller during abdominal vascular interventions. Coil embolization through a microcatheter with a tip of 2F or smaller was attempted in 73 procedures. Two types of microcoil-Liquid Coil (Boston Scientific, Watertown, MA, USA) and Tornado Coil (Cook, Bloomington, IN, USA)-were deployed through four types of thinner microcatheter [2F tip (n = 49) and 1.8F tip (n = 24)]. Coil jams in the microcatheter and coil migration were evaluated. In total, 286 microcoils were placed (mean ± SD, 3.9 ± 4.3 coils per procedure, range 1-32 coils). In 19 procedures (26.9%), Liquid Coils were used alone. In 44 (60.3%), Tornado Coils were used alone. In 10 (13.7%), Liquid Coils and Tornado Coils were combined. There were no coil jams in the microcatheter in this series. One Tornado Coil (0.3%) delivered into the gastroduodenal artery migrated to the right hepatic artery. Liquid Coils and Tornado Coils can be placed through a thinner microcatheter without difficulty. However, there is a risk of coil migration in large vessels or at the proximal site because the catheter tip is not stabilized.

Reaching More Students Through Thinking in Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coletta, Vincent P.

2017-02-01

Thinking in Physics (TIP) is a new curriculum that is more effective than commonly used interactive engagement methods for students who have the greatest difficulty learning physics. Research has shown a correlation between learning in physics and other factors, including scientific reasoning ability. The TIP curriculum addresses those factors. Features of the curriculum and evidence of its effectiveness are described. The most recent version of the TIP curriculum has greatly reduced a substantial gender gap that previously existed. More details and sample materials are provided in Thinking in Physics, a book intended for instructors of introductory physics, published in 2014 by Pearson as part of its Educational Innovation series. Additional materials, both for students and instructors, are provided on the website http://thinkinginphysics.com. Both the book and the website are free.

An approach to natalizumab hypersensitivity: a case series of induction of tolerance.

PubMed

Camacho-Halili, Marie; George, Roxanne; Gottesman, Malcolm; Davis-Lorton, Mark

2011-02-01

Induction of tolerance protocols have been applied successfully to manage allergic reactions to many medications. Hypersensitivity reactions to natalizumab (TYSABRI®) have been recognized as a growing problem. In circumstances where a hypersensitivity reaction to a medication has occurred, but no suitable alternative exists, drug induction of tolerance protocols may be considered. Drug induction of tolerance protocols were performed in three patients with prior hypersensitivity reactions to natalizumab. All three patients tolerated the protocol without adverse reactions, allowing for the safe reintroduction of natalizumab. To conclude, this case series demonstrates success with an induction of tolerance procedure to a highly effective biological agent for multiple sclerosis, in patients with allergic reactions to natalizumab.

Cell population structure prior to bifurcation predicts efficiency of directed differentiation in human induced pluripotent cells

PubMed Central

Bargaje, Rhishikesh; Trachana, Kalliopi; Shelton, Martin N.; McGinnis, Christopher S.; Zhou, Joseph X.; Chadick, Cora; Cook, Savannah; Cavanaugh, Christopher; Huang, Sui; Hood, Leroy

2017-01-01

Steering the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) toward specific cell types is crucial for patient-specific disease modeling and drug testing. This effort requires the capacity to predict and control when and how multipotent progenitor cells commit to the desired cell fate. Cell fate commitment represents a critical state transition or “tipping point” at which complex systems undergo a sudden qualitative shift. To characterize such transitions during iPSC to cardiomyocyte differentiation, we analyzed the gene expression patterns of 96 developmental genes at single-cell resolution. We identified a bifurcation event early in the trajectory when a primitive streak-like cell population segregated into the mesodermal and endodermal lineages. Before this branching point, we could detect the signature of an imminent critical transition: increase in cell heterogeneity and coordination of gene expression. Correlation analysis of gene expression profiles at the tipping point indicates transcription factors that drive the state transition toward each alternative cell fate and their relationships with specific phenotypic readouts. The latter helps us to facilitate small molecule screening for differentiation efficiency. To this end, we set up an analysis of cell population structure at the tipping point after systematic variation of the protocol to bias the differentiation toward mesodermal or endodermal cell lineage. We were able to predict the proportion of cardiomyocytes many days before cells manifest the differentiated phenotype. The analysis of cell populations undergoing a critical state transition thus affords a tool to forecast cell fate outcomes and can be used to optimize differentiation protocols to obtain desired cell populations. PMID:28167799

Cell population structure prior to bifurcation predicts efficiency of directed differentiation in human induced pluripotent cells.

PubMed

Bargaje, Rhishikesh; Trachana, Kalliopi; Shelton, Martin N; McGinnis, Christopher S; Zhou, Joseph X; Chadick, Cora; Cook, Savannah; Cavanaugh, Christopher; Huang, Sui; Hood, Leroy

2017-02-28

Steering the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) toward specific cell types is crucial for patient-specific disease modeling and drug testing. This effort requires the capacity to predict and control when and how multipotent progenitor cells commit to the desired cell fate. Cell fate commitment represents a critical state transition or "tipping point" at which complex systems undergo a sudden qualitative shift. To characterize such transitions during iPSC to cardiomyocyte differentiation, we analyzed the gene expression patterns of 96 developmental genes at single-cell resolution. We identified a bifurcation event early in the trajectory when a primitive streak-like cell population segregated into the mesodermal and endodermal lineages. Before this branching point, we could detect the signature of an imminent critical transition: increase in cell heterogeneity and coordination of gene expression. Correlation analysis of gene expression profiles at the tipping point indicates transcription factors that drive the state transition toward each alternative cell fate and their relationships with specific phenotypic readouts. The latter helps us to facilitate small molecule screening for differentiation efficiency. To this end, we set up an analysis of cell population structure at the tipping point after systematic variation of the protocol to bias the differentiation toward mesodermal or endodermal cell lineage. We were able to predict the proportion of cardiomyocytes many days before cells manifest the differentiated phenotype. The analysis of cell populations undergoing a critical state transition thus affords a tool to forecast cell fate outcomes and can be used to optimize differentiation protocols to obtain desired cell populations.

Histological characterization of Passiflora pohlii Mast. root tips cryopreserved using the V-Cryo-plate technique.

PubMed

Simão, Mariela J; Collin, Myriam; Garcia, Renata O; Mansur, Elisabeth; Pacheco, Georgia; Engelmann, Florent

2018-05-01

Cryopreservation stands out as the main strategy to ensure safe and cost efficient long-term conservation of plant germplasm, especially for biotechnological materials. However, the injuries associated with the procedure may result in structural damage and low recovery rates after cooling. Histological analysis provides useful information on the effects of osmotic dehydration, LN exposure, and recovery conditions on cellular integrity and tissue organization, allowing the determination of the critical steps of the cryopreservation protocol and, thus, the use of optimized treatments. Passiflora pohlii Mast. (Passifloraceae) is a native species from Brazil with potential agronomic interest. Recent studies showed the presence of saponins in its roots, which presented antioxidant activity. The goal of this work was to develop a cryopreservation technique for root tips of in vitro-derived plants of P. pohlii using the V-Cryo-plate technique and to characterize the anatomical alterations that occurred during the successive steps of the protocol. Root tips were excised from in vitro plants and precultured before adhesion to cryo-plates and then treated for different periods with the plant vitrification solutions PVS2 or PVS3. Treatment with PVS2 for 45 min resulted in higher recovery (79%) when compared with PVS3 (43%). The greatest number of adventitious roots per cryopreserved explant was also observed after a 45-min exposure to PVS2. Plasmolysis levels were higher in cortical cells of cryopreserved explants treated with PVS2, while pericycle and central cylinder cells were not damaged after this treatment. Thirty days after rewarming, no plasmolysis could be detected, regardless of the experimental conditions.

Generation and Long-term Maintenance of Nerve-free Hydra.

PubMed

Tran, Cassidy M; Fu, Sharon; Rowe, Trevor; Collins, Eva-Maria S

2017-07-07

The interstitial cell lineage of Hydra includes multipotent stem cells, and their derivatives: gland cells, nematocytes, germ cells, and nerve cells. The interstitial cells can be eliminated through two consecutive treatments with colchicine, a plant-derived toxin that kills dividing cells, thus erasing the potential for renewal of the differentiated cells that are derived from the interstitial stem cells. This allows for the generation of Hydra that lack nerve cells. A nerve-free polyp cannot open its mouth to feed, egest, or regulate osmotic pressure. Such animals, however, can survive and be cultured indefinitely in the laboratory if regularly force-fed and burped. The lack of nerve cells allows for studies of the role of the nervous system in regulating animal behavior and regeneration. Previously published protocols for nerve-free Hydra maintenance involve outdated techniques such as mouth-pipetting with hand-pulled micropipette tips to feed and clean the Hydra. Here, an improved protocol for maintenance of nerve-free Hydra is introduced. Fine-tipped forceps are used to force open the mouth and insert freshly killed Artemia. Following force-feeding, the body cavity of the animal is flushed with fresh medium using a syringe and hypodermic needle to remove undigested material, referred to here as "burping". This new method of force-feeding and burping nerve-free Hydra through the use of forceps and syringes eliminates the need for mouth-pipetting using hand-pulled micropipette tips. It thus makes the process safer and significantly more time efficient. To ensure that the nerve cells in the hypostome have been eliminated, immunohistochemistry using anti-tyrosine-tubulin is conducted.

Electronic data collection for the analysis of surgical maneuvers on patients submitted to rhinoplasty

PubMed Central

Berger, Cezar; Freitas, Renato; Malafaia, Osvaldo; Pinto, José Simão de Paula; Mocellin, Marcos; Macedo, Evaldo; Fagundes, Marina Serrato Coelho

2012-01-01

Summary Introduction: In the health field, computerization has become increasingly necessary in professional practice, since it facilitates data recovery and assists in the development of research with greater scientific rigor. Objective: the present work aimed to develop, apply, and validate specific electronic protocols for patients referred for rhinoplasty. Methods: The prospective research had 3 stages: (1) preparation of theoretical data bases; (2) creation of a master protocol using Integrated System of Electronic Protocol (SINPE©); and (3) elaboration, application, and validation of a specific protocol for the nose and sinuses regarding rhinoplasty. Results: After the preparation of the master protocol, which dealt with the entire field of otorhinolaryngology, we idealized a specific protocol containing all matters related to the patient. In particular, the aesthetic and functional nasal complaints referred for surgical treatment (i.e., rhinoplasty) were organized into 6 main hierarchical categories: anamnesis, physical examination, complementary exams, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. This protocol utilized these categories and their sub-items: finality; access; surgical maneuvers on the nasal dorsum, tip, and base; clinical evolution after 3, 6, and 12 months; revisional surgery; and quantitative and qualitative evaluations. Conclusion: The developed electronic-specific protocol is feasible and important for information registration from patients referred to rhinoplasty. PMID:25991979

A Simple Bioconjugate Attachment Protocol for Use in Single Molecule Force Spectroscopy Experiments Based on Mixed Self-Assembled Monolayers

PubMed Central

Attwood, Simon J.; Simpson, Anna M. C.; Stone, Rachael; Hamaia, SamirW.; Roy, Debdulal; Farndale, RichardW.; Ouberai, Myriam; Welland, Mark E.

2012-01-01

Single molecule force spectroscopy is a technique that can be used to probe the interaction force between individual biomolecular species. We focus our attention on the tip and sample coupling chemistry, which is crucial to these experiments. We utilised a novel approach of mixed self-assembled monolayers of alkanethiols in conjunction with a heterobifunctional crosslinker. The effectiveness of the protocol is demonstrated by probing the biotin-avidin interaction. We measured unbinding forces comparable to previously reported values measured at similar loading rates. Specificity tests also demonstrated a significant decrease in recognition after blocking with free avidin. PMID:23202965

Transient Expression of Chimeric Fluorescent Reporter Proteins in Pollen Tubes to Study Protein Polar Secretion and Dynamics.

PubMed

Zhong, Guitao; Liu, Ronghe; Zhuang, Menglong; Wang, Hao

2017-01-01

Transient expression of chimeric fluorescent reporter proteins by biolistic bombardment is a quick and useful procedure for studying subcellular protein localization and dynamics in plants. It is especially beneficial in specific plant cells which are not suitable for protoplast-based and Agrobacterium-mediated protein transient expression. Polar protein secretion and vesicular trafficking play essential functions for cell polarization and tip growth. The growing pollen tube is regarded as an ideal model plant cell system to study the machinery and regulation of polar protein trafficking and targeting. A large amount of newly synthesized proteins are packed and polarly transported to the apical region to support the rapid and highly polarized tip growth. Here, we described a detailed step-by-step protocol for the transient expression of chimeric fluorescent reporter proteins in growing Arabidopsis and tobacco pollen tubes to study polar transportation logistics and mechanisms. In addition, we have optimized the Arabidopsis and tobacco in vitro pollen germination medium and the conditions to maximize the efficiency of protein expression. As a proof of concept, we have used this protocol to express actin microfilament and late endosomal fluorescent markers in Arabidopsis and tobacco pollen tubes.

Confronting Therapeutic Failure: A Conversation Guide

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We reflect on the impact of bad news on both clinician and patient in the setting of cancer treatment failure. We review the classic six-step SPIKES (setting, perception, invitation for information, knowledge, empathy, summarize and strategize) protocol for giving bad news that has been widely adopted since it was first published in this journal in 2005. The goal of such a conversation guide is to describe both the process and the tasks that constitute vital steps for clinicians and to comment on the emotional impact of the conversation on the clinician. Confronting therapeutic failure is the hardest task for oncologists. We offer practical tips derived from a thorough review of the evidence and our clinical experience. Implications for Practice: Discussing the failure of anticancer therapy remains a very difficult conversation for oncologists and their patients. In this article, the process of confronting this failure is broken down into various components, and practical tips are provided for clinicians following a classic protocol for breaking bad news. Also addressed are the emotions of the oncologist and the reasons why these conversations are typically so hard. These insights are based on solid research intended to deepen the therapeutic connection between physician and patient. PMID:26099747

Wind tunnel research comparing lateral control devices, particularly at high angles of attack XI : various floating tip ailerons on both rectangular and tapered wings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weick, Fred E; Harris, Thomas A

1933-01-01

Discussed here are a series of systematic tests being conducted to compare different lateral control devices with particular reference to their effectiveness at high angles of attack. The present tests were made with six different forms of floating tip ailerons of symmetrical section. The tests showed the effect of the various ailerons on the general performance characteristics of the wing, and on the lateral controllability and stability characteristics. In addition, the hinge moments were measured for the most interesting cases. The results are compared with those for a rectangular wing with ordinary ailerons and also with those for a rectangular wing having full-chord floating tip ailerons. Practically all the floating tip ailerons gave satisfactory rolling moments at all angles of attack and at the same time gave no adverse yawing moments of appreciable magnitude. The general performance characteristics with the floating tip ailerons, however, were relatively poor, especially the rate of climb. None of the floating tip ailerons entirely eliminated the auto rotational moments at angles of attack above the stall, but all of them gave lower moments than a plain wing. Some of the floating ailerons fluttered if given sufficiently large deflection, but this could have been eliminated by moving the hinge axis of the ailerons forward. Considering all points including hinge moments, the floating tip ailerons on the wing with 5:1 taper are probably the best of those which were tested.

Using semantics for representing experimental protocols.

PubMed

Giraldo, Olga; García, Alexander; López, Federico; Corcho, Oscar

2017-11-13

An experimental protocol is a sequence of tasks and operations executed to perform experimental research in biological and biomedical areas, e.g. biology, genetics, immunology, neurosciences, virology. Protocols often include references to equipment, reagents, descriptions of critical steps, troubleshooting and tips, as well as any other information that researchers deem important for facilitating the reusability of the protocol. Although experimental protocols are central to reproducibility, the descriptions are often cursory. There is the need for a unified framework with respect to the syntactic structure and the semantics for representing experimental protocols. In this paper we present "SMART Protocols ontology", an ontology for representing experimental protocols. Our ontology represents the protocol as a workflow with domain specific knowledge embedded within a document. We also present the S ample I nstrument R eagent O bjective (SIRO) model, which represents the minimal common information shared across experimental protocols. SIRO was conceived in the same realm as the Patient Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICO) model that supports search, retrieval and classification purposes in evidence based medicine. We evaluate our approach against a set of competency questions modeled as SPARQL queries and processed against a set of published and unpublished protocols modeled with the SP Ontology and the SIRO model. Our approach makes it possible to answer queries such as Which protocols use tumor tissue as a sample. Improving reporting structures for experimental protocols requires collective efforts from authors, peer reviewers, editors and funding bodies. The SP Ontology is a contribution towards this goal. We build upon previous experiences and bringing together the view of researchers managing protocols in their laboratory work. Website: https://smartprotocols.github.io/ .

Hit to lead account of the discovery of bisbenzamide and related ureidobenzamide inhibitors of Rho kinase.

PubMed

Morwick, Tina; Büttner, Frank H; Cywin, Charles L; Dahmann, Georg; Hickey, Eugene; Jakes, Scott; Kaplita, Paul; Kashem, Mohammed A; Kerr, Steven; Kugler, Stanley; Mao, Wang; Marshall, Daniel; Paw, Zofia; Shih, Cheng-Kon; Wu, Frank; Young, Erick

2010-01-28

A highly selective series of bisbenzamide inhibitors of Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) and a related ureidobenzamide series, both identified by high throughput screening (HTS), are described. Details of the hit validation and lead generation process, including structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, a selectivity assessment, target-independent profiling (TIP) results, and an analysis of functional activity using a rat aortic ring assay are discussed.

Alar setback technique: a controlled method of nasal tip deprojection.

PubMed

Foda, H M

2001-11-01

To describe an alar cartilage-modifying technique aimed at decreasing nasal tip projection in cases with overdeveloped alar cartilages and to compare it with other deprojection techniques used to correct such deformity. Selected case series. University and private practice settings in Alexandria, Egypt. Twenty patients presenting for rhinoplasty who had overprojected nasal tips primarily due to overdeveloped alar cartilages. All cases were primary cases except for one patient, who had undergone 2 previous rhinoplasties. An external rhinoplasty approach was used to set back the alar cartilages by shortening their medial and lateral crura. The choice of performing a high or low setback depended on the preexisting lobule-to-columella ratio. Following the setback, the alar cartilages were reconstructed in a fashion that increased the strength and stability of the tip complex. Subjective evaluation included clinical examination, analysis of preoperative and postoperative photographs, and patient satisfaction. Objective evaluation of nasal tip projection, using the Goode ratio and the nasofacial angle, was performed preoperatively and repeated at least 6 months postoperatively. A low setback was performed in 16 cases (80%) and a high setback in 4 (20%). The mean follow-up period was 18 months (range, 6-36 months). The technique effectively deprojected the nasal tip as evidenced by the considerable postoperative decrease in values of the Goode ratio and the nasofacial angle. No complications were encountered and no revision surgical procedures were required. The alar setback technique has many advantages; it results in precise predictable amounts of deprojection, controls the degree of tip rotation, preserves the natural contour of the nasal tip, respects the tip support mechanisms, increases the strength and stability of nasal tip complex, preserves or restores the normal lobule-to-columella proportion, and does not lead to alar flaring. However, the technique requires an external rhinoplasty approach and fine technical precision.

Effect of Solute Diffusion on Dendrite Growth in the Molten Pool of Al-Cu Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Xiaohong; Gu, Cheng; Liu, Yun; Wei, Yanhong

2017-10-01

A cellular automaton (CA)-finite difference model is developed to simulate dendrite growth and solute diffusion during solidification process in the molten pool of Al-Cu alloy. In order to explain the interaction between the dendritic growth and solute distribution, a series of CA simulations with different solute diffusion velocity coefficients are carried out. It is concluded that the solute concentration increases with dendrite growing and solute accumulation in the dendrite tip. Converged value of the dendrite tip growth velocity is about 480 μm/s if the mesh size is refined to 2 μm or less. Growth of the primary dendrite and the secondary dendrite is mainly influenced by solute diffusion at the dendrite tips. And growth of secondary and tertiary dendrites is mainly influenced by solute diffusion at interdendrite.

Elimination of two viruses which interact synergistically from sweetpotato by shoot tip culture and cryotherapy.

PubMed

Wang, Q C; Valkonen, J P T

2008-12-01

Sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV; Closteroviridae) and Sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV; Potyviridae) interact synergistically and cause severe diseases in co-infected sweetpotato plants (Ipomoea batatas). Sweetpotato is propagated vegetatively and virus-free planting materials are pivotal for sustainable production. Using cryotherapy, SPCSV and SPCSV were eliminated from all treated single-virus-infected and co-infected shoot tips irrespective of size (0.5-1.5mm including 2-4 leaf primordia). While shoot tip culture also eliminated SPCSV, elimination of SPFMV failed in 90-93% of the largest shoot tips (1.5mm) using this technique. Virus distribution to different leaf primordia and tissues within leaf primordia in the shoot apex and petioles was not altered by co-infection of the viruses in the fully virus-susceptible sweetpotato genotype used. SPFMV was immunolocalized to all types of tissues and up to the fourth-youngest leaf primordium. In contrast, SPCSV was detected only in the phloem and up to the fifth leaf primordium. Because only cells in the apical dome of the meristem and the two first leaf primordia survived cryotherapy, all data taken together could explain the results of virus elimination. The simple and efficient cryotherapy protocol developed for virus elimination can also be used for preparation of sweetpotato materials for long-term preservation.

Submicrometer Emitter ESI Tips for Native Mass Spectrometry of Membrane Proteins in Ionic and Nonionic Detergents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Susa, Anna C.; Lippens, Jennifer L.; Xia, Zijie; Loo, Joseph A.; Campuzano, Iain D. G.; Williams, Evan R.

2018-01-01

Native mass spectrometry (native-MS) of membrane proteins typically requires a detergent screening protocol, protein solubilization in the preferred detergent, followed by protein liberation from the micelle by collisional activation. Here, submicrometer nano-ESI emitter tips are used for native-MS of membrane proteins solubilized in both nonionic and ionic detergent solutions. With the submicrometer nano-ESI emitter tips, resolved charge-state distributions of membrane protein ions are obtained from a 150 mM NaCl, 25 mM Tris-HCl with 1.1% octyl glucoside solution. The relative abundances of NaCl and detergent cluster ions at high m / z are significantly reduced with the submicrometer emitters compared with larger nano-ESI emitters that are commonly used. This technique is beneficial for significantly decreasing the abundances (by two to three orders of magnitude compared with the larger tip size: 1.6 μm) of detergent cluster ions formed from aqueous ammonium acetate solutions containing detergents that can overlap with the membrane protein ion signal. Resolved charge-state distributions of membrane protein ions from aqueous ammonium acetate solutions containing ionic detergents were obtained with the submicrometer nano-ESI emitters; this is the first report of native-MS of membrane proteins solubilized by ionic detergents. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Submicrometer Emitter ESI Tips for Native Mass Spectrometry of Membrane Proteins in Ionic and Nonionic Detergents.

PubMed

Susa, Anna C; Lippens, Jennifer L; Xia, Zijie; Loo, Joseph A; Campuzano, Iain D G; Williams, Evan R

2018-01-01

Native mass spectrometry (native-MS) of membrane proteins typically requires a detergent screening protocol, protein solubilization in the preferred detergent, followed by protein liberation from the micelle by collisional activation. Here, submicrometer nano-ESI emitter tips are used for native-MS of membrane proteins solubilized in both nonionic and ionic detergent solutions. With the submicrometer nano-ESI emitter tips, resolved charge-state distributions of membrane protein ions are obtained from a 150 mM NaCl, 25 mM Tris-HCl with 1.1% octyl glucoside solution. The relative abundances of NaCl and detergent cluster ions at high m /z are significantly reduced with the submicrometer emitters compared with larger nano-ESI emitters that are commonly used. This technique is beneficial for significantly decreasing the abundances (by two to three orders of magnitude compared with the larger tip size: 1.6 μm) of detergent cluster ions formed from aqueous ammonium acetate solutions containing detergents that can overlap with the membrane protein ion signal. Resolved charge-state distributions of membrane protein ions from aqueous ammonium acetate solutions containing ionic detergents were obtained with the submicrometer nano-ESI emitters; this is the first report of native-MS of membrane proteins solubilized by ionic detergents. Graphical Abstract.

Single-operator real-time ultrasound-guided spinal injection using SonixGPS™: a case series.

PubMed

Brinkmann, Silke; Tang, Raymond; Sawka, Andrew; Vaghadia, Himat

2013-09-01

The SonixGPS™ is a novel needle tracking system that has recently been approved in Canada for ultrasound-guided needle interventions. It allows optimization of needle-beam alignment by providing a real-time display of current and predicted needle tip position. Currently, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of this technique for performance of real-time spinal anesthesia. This case series reports performance of the SonixGPS system for real-time ultrasound-guided spinal anesthesia in elective patients scheduled for joint arthroplasty. In this single-centre case series, 20 American Society of Anesthesiologists' class I-II patients scheduled for lower limb joint arthroplasty were recruited to undergo real-time ultrasound-guided spinal anesthesia with the SonixGPS after written informed consent. The primary outcome for this clinical cases series was the success rate of spinal anesthesia, and the main secondary outcome was time required to perform spinal anesthesia. Successful spinal anesthesia for joint arthroplasty was achieved in 18/20 patients, and 17 of these required only a single skin puncture. In 7/20 (35%) patients, dural puncture was achieved on the first needle pass, and in 11/20 (55%) patients, dural puncture was achieved with two or three needle redirections. Median (range) time taken to perform the block was 8 (5-14) min. The study procedure was aborted in two cases because our clinical protocol dictated using a standard approach if spinal anesthesia was unsuccessful after three ultrasound-guided insertion attempts. These two cases were classified as failures. No complications, including paresthesia, were observed during the procedure. All patients with successful spinal anesthesia found the technique acceptable and were willing to undergo a repeat procedure if deemed necessary. This case series shows that real-time ultrasound-guided spinal anesthesia with the SonixGPS system is possible within an acceptable time frame. It proved effective with a low rate of failure and a low rate of complications. Our clinical experience suggests that a randomized trial is warranted to compare the SonixGPS with a standard block technique.

Performance of post-processing algorithms for rainfall intensity using measurements from tipping-bucket rain gauges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stagnaro, Mattia; Colli, Matteo; Lanza, Luca Giovanni; Chan, Pak Wai

2016-11-01

Eight rainfall events recorded from May to September 2013 at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) have been selected to investigate the performance of post-processing algorithms used to calculate the rainfall intensity (RI) from tipping-bucket rain gauges (TBRGs). We assumed a drop-counter catching-type gauge as a working reference and compared rainfall intensity measurements with two calibrated TBRGs operated at a time resolution of 1 min. The two TBRGs differ in their internal mechanics, one being a traditional single-layer dual-bucket assembly, while the other has two layers of buckets. The drop-counter gauge operates at a time resolution of 10 s, while the time of tipping is recorded for the two TBRGs. The post-processing algorithms employed for the two TBRGs are based on the assumption that the tip volume is uniformly distributed over the inter-tip period. A series of data of an ideal TBRG is reconstructed using the virtual time of tipping derived from the drop-counter data. From the comparison between the ideal gauge and the measurements from the two real TBRGs, the performances of different post-processing and correction algorithms are statistically evaluated over the set of recorded rain events. The improvement obtained by adopting the inter-tip time algorithm in the calculation of the RI is confirmed. However, by comparing the performance of the real and ideal TBRGs, the beneficial effect of the inter-tip algorithm is shown to be relevant for the mid-low range (6-50 mmh-1) of rainfall intensity values (where the sampling errors prevail), while its role vanishes with increasing RI in the range where the mechanical errors prevail.

Helping Your Child through Early Adolescence -- Helping Your Child Series

MedlinePlus

... Bibliography Acknowledgements Tips to Help Your Child through Early Adolescence No Child Left Behind < Previous page | ^ Top ^ | Next page > Printable ... Information About... Transforming Teaching Family and Community Engagement Early Learning Helping Your Child Our mission is to promote student achievement and ...

Thyroid Scan and Uptake

MedlinePlus

... minutes prior to the test. When it is time for the imaging to begin, you will lie down on a moveable examination table with your head tipped backward and neck extended. The gamma camera will then take a series of images, capturing images of the thyroid gland ...

OVERVIEW, PRACTICAL TIPS AND POTENTIAL PITFALLS OF USING AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE CONTROL IN CT: SIEMENS CARE DOSE 4D.

PubMed

Söderberg, Marcus

2016-06-01

Today, computed tomography (CT) systems routinely use automatic exposure control (AEC), which modulates the tube current. However, for optimal use, there are several aspects of an AEC system that need to be considered. The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of the Siemens CARE Dose 4D AEC system, discuss practical tips and demonstrate potential pitfalls. Two adult anthropomorphic phantoms were examined using two different Siemens CT systems. When optimising the CT radiation dose and image quality, the projection angle of the localiser, patient centring, protocol selection, scanning direction and the use of protective devices requires special attention. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Developing the teaching instinct, 1: feedback.

PubMed

Hesketh, E A; Laidlaw, J M

2002-05-01

The first in a new series of short educational programmes covering a range of important topics in medical education. Each programme defines the topic, provides some background information, presents some practical tips, gives some theoretical underpinning where relevant, provides some further reading and suggests an activity which can be carried out independently or with colleagues. The series has been designed in collaboration with NHS Education for Scotland as an aid to all engaged as trainers or teachers in the healthcare professions.

Vitamins C and E improve regrowth and reduce lipid peroxidation of blackberry shoot tips following cryopreservation.

PubMed

Uchendu, Esther E; Leonard, Scott W; Traber, Maret G; Reed, Barbara M

2010-01-01

Oxidative processes involved in cryopreservation protocols may be responsible for the reduced viability of tissues after liquid nitrogen exposure. Antioxidants that counteract these reactions should improve recovery. This study focused on oxidative lipid injury and the effects of exogenous vitamin E (tocopherol, Vit E) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid, Vit C) treatments on regrowth at four critical steps of the plant vitrification solution number 2 (PVS2) vitrification cryopreservation technique; pretreatment, loading, rinsing, and regrowth. Initial experiments showed that Vit E at 11-15 mM significantly increased regrowth (P < 0.001) when added at any of the four steps. There was significantly more malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation product, at each of the steps than in fresh untreated shoot tips. Vit E uptake was assayed at each step and showed significantly more alpha- and gamma-tocopherols in treated shoots than those without Vit E. Vit E added at each step significantly reduced MDA formation and improved shoot regrowth. Vit C (0.14-0.58 mM) also significantly improved regrowth of shoot tips at each step compared to the controls. Regrowth medium with high iron concentrations and Vit C decreased recovery. However, in iron-free medium, Vit C significantly improved recovery. Treatments with Vit E (11 mM) and Vit C (0.14 mM) combined were not significantly better than Vit C alone. We recommend adding Vit C (0.28 mM) to the pretreatment medium, the loading solution or the rinse solution in the PVS2 vitrification protocol. This is the first report of the application of vitamins for improving cryopreservation of plant tissues by minimizing oxidative damage.

Cultural Evolutionary Tipping Points in the Storage and Transmission of Information

PubMed Central

Bentley, R. Alexander; O’Brien, Michael J.

2012-01-01

Human culture has evolved through a series of major tipping points in information storage and communication. The first was the appearance of language, which enabled communication between brains and allowed humans to specialize in what they do and to participate in complex mating games. The second was information storage outside the brain, most obviously expressed in the “Upper Paleolithic Revolution” – the sudden proliferation of cave art, personal adornment, and ritual in Europe some 35,000–45,000 years ago. More recently, this storage has taken the form of writing, mass media, and now the Internet, which is arguably overwhelming humans’ ability to discern relevant information. The third tipping point was the appearance of technology capable of accumulating and manipulating vast amounts of information outside humans, thus removing them as bottlenecks to a seemingly self-perpetuating process of knowledge explosion. Important components of any discussion of cultural evolutionary tipping points are tempo and mode, given that the rate of change, as well as the kind of change, in information storage and transmission has not been constant over the previous million years. PMID:23267338

Cultural evolutionary tipping points in the storage and transmission of information.

PubMed

Bentley, R Alexander; O'Brien, Michael J

2012-01-01

Human culture has evolved through a series of major tipping points in information storage and communication. The first was the appearance of language, which enabled communication between brains and allowed humans to specialize in what they do and to participate in complex mating games. The second was information storage outside the brain, most obviously expressed in the "Upper Paleolithic Revolution" - the sudden proliferation of cave art, personal adornment, and ritual in Europe some 35,000-45,000 years ago. More recently, this storage has taken the form of writing, mass media, and now the Internet, which is arguably overwhelming humans' ability to discern relevant information. The third tipping point was the appearance of technology capable of accumulating and manipulating vast amounts of information outside humans, thus removing them as bottlenecks to a seemingly self-perpetuating process of knowledge explosion. Important components of any discussion of cultural evolutionary tipping points are tempo and mode, given that the rate of change, as well as the kind of change, in information storage and transmission has not been constant over the previous million years.

Tips on hybridizing, washing, and scanning affymetrix microarrays.

PubMed

Ares, Manuel

2014-02-01

Starting in the late 1990s, Affymetrix, Inc. produced a commercial system for hybridizing, washing, and scanning microarrays that was designed to be easy to operate and reproducible. The system used arrays packaged in a plastic cassette or chamber in which the prefabricated array was mounted and could be filled with fluid through resealable membrane ports either by hand or by an automated "fluidics station" specially designed to handle the arrays. A special rotating hybridization oven and a specially designed scanner were also required. Primarily because of automation and standardization the Affymetrix system was and still remains popular. Here, we provide a skeleton protocol with the potential pitfalls identified. It is designed to augment the protocols provided by Affymetrix.

Conducting a successful residency research project.

PubMed

Barletta, Jeffrey F

2008-08-15

The residency research project can be a challenging endeavor for pharmacy residents since they typically have limited experience in this area. Furthermore, as the number of accredited residency programs has increased, so has the demand for preceptors with research experience. This review is intended to assist the resident and preceptor by providing steps and guidance with conducting a successful residency research project. Items such as idea generation, proposing the right type of project, departmental review, and project management skills are discussed and guidance with writing the research protocol is provided. Items that must be addressed in every research protocol are described and a generalized protocol template is presented. In addition, the institutional review board review process is described and tips and pointers for obtaining approval are included. Finally, useful tools and resources are provided that can be used up front or throughout each phase of the research project.

DNA stable-isotope probing (DNA-SIP).

PubMed

Dunford, Eric A; Neufeld, Josh D

2010-08-02

DNA stable-isotope probing (DNA-SIP) is a powerful technique for identifying active microorganisms that assimilate particular carbon substrates and nutrients into cellular biomass. As such, this cultivation-independent technique has been an important methodology for assigning metabolic function to the diverse communities inhabiting a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic environments. Following the incubation of an environmental sample with stable-isotope labelled compounds, extracted nucleic acid is subjected to density gradient ultracentrifugation and subsequent gradient fractionation to separate nucleic acids of differing densities. Purification of DNA from cesium chloride retrieves labelled and unlabelled DNA for subsequent molecular characterization (e.g. fingerprinting, microarrays, clone libraries, metagenomics). This JoVE video protocol provides visual step-by-step explanations of the protocol for density gradient ultracentrifugation, gradient fractionation and recovery of labelled DNA. The protocol also includes sample SIP data and highlights important tips and cautions that must be considered to ensure a successful DNA-SIP analysis.

Retrieving microcatheters from Onyx casts in a series of brain arteriovenous malformations: a technical report.

PubMed

Alamri, A; Hyodo, A; Suzuki, K; Tanaka, Y; Uchida, T; Takano, I; Kowata, K; Iwatate, K; Suzuki, R

2012-11-01

To date, the "monorail snare technique" for the retrieval of entombed microcatheter tips during Onyx(TM) (ev3, Irvine, CA) embolisation of brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVM) has not been described. We report our experiences and some technical aspects in using this technique for the retrieval of entombed Marathon(TM) microcatheter (ev3, Plymouth, MN) tips during Onyx embolisation of BAVM treatment. Onyx was used in the embolisation of 11 patients using 25 feeders over 14 sessions. The 'monorail snare technique' was employed for 14 feeders. Each time, an Amplatz 4 mm Gooseneck Microsnare(TM) (ev3, Plymouth, MN) was loaded into an Excelsior 1018(TM) microcatheter (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA). The Marathon microcatheter was cut just distal to the hub, and the Amplatz/Excelsior combination was introduced along the length of the Marathon microcatheter towards its distal end, as far as possible. The embedded catheter was ensnared and both catheters were pulled free. Microcatheter tip removal was successful in all cases, except for one microcatheter tip becoming detached and needing no further intervention. There were no complications as a direct result of the snare technique. The monorail snare technique is a safe and easy technique for retrieving Onyx-encased microcatheter tips in the treatment of BAVM.

Combined low-temperature scanning tunneling/atomic force microscope for atomic resolution imaging and site-specific force spectroscopy

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

Schwarz, Udo; Albers, Boris J.; Liebmann, Marcus

2008-02-27

The authors present the design and first results of a low-temperature, ultrahigh vacuum scanning probe microscope enabling atomic resolution imaging in both scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and noncontact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM) modes. A tuning-fork-based sensor provides flexibility in selecting probe tip materials, which can be either metallic or nonmetallic. When choosing a conducting tip and sample, simultaneous STM/NC-AFM data acquisition is possible. Noticeable characteristics that distinguish this setup from similar systems providing simultaneous STM/NC-AFM capabilities are its combination of relative compactness (on-top bath cryostat needs no pit), in situ exchange of tip and sample at low temperatures, short turnaroundmore » times, modest helium consumption, and unrestricted access from dedicated flanges. The latter permits not only the optical surveillance of the tip during approach but also the direct deposition of molecules or atoms on either tip or sample while they remain cold. Atomic corrugations as low as 1 pm could successfully be resolved. In addition, lateral drifts rates of below 15 pm/h allow long-term data acquisition series and the recording of site-specific spectroscopy maps. Results obtained on Cu(111) and graphite illustrate the microscope's performance.« less

Electrospray ionization from nanopipette emitters with tip diameters of less than 100 nm.

PubMed

Yuill, Elizabeth M; Sa, Niya; Ray, Steven J; Hieftje, Gary M; Baker, Lane A

2013-09-17

Work presented here demonstrates application of nanopipettes pulled to orifice diameters of less than 100 nm as electrospray ionization emitters for mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometric analysis of a series of peptides and proteins electrosprayed from pulled-quartz capillary nanopipette emitters with internal diameters ranging from 37 to 70 nm is detailed. Overall, the use of nanopipette emitters causes a shift toward the production of ions of higher charge states and leads to a reduction in width of charge-state distribution as compared to typical nanospray conditions. Further, nanopipettes show improved S/N and the same signal precision as typical nanospray, despite the much smaller dimensions. As characterized by SEM images acquired before and after spray, nanopipettes are shown to be robust under conditions employed. Analytical calculations and numerical simulations are used to calculate the electric field at the emitter tip, which can be significant for the small diameter tips used.

Evolution of Residual-Strain Distribution through an Overload-Induced Retardation Period during Fatigue Crack Growth

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

Lee, S. Y.; Sun, Yinan; An, Ke

2010-01-01

Neutron diffraction was employed to investigate the crack-growth retardation phenomenon after a single tensile overload by mapping both one-dimensional and two-dimensional residual-strain distributions around the crack tip in a series of compact-tension specimens representing various crack-growth stages through an overload-induced retardation period. The results clearly show a large compressive residual-strain field near the crack tip immediately after the overload. As the fatigue crack propagates through the overload-induced plastic zone, the compressive residual strains are gradually relaxed, and a new compressive residual-strain field is developed around the propagating crack tip, illustrating that the subsequent fatigue-induced plastic zone grows out of themore » large plastic zone caused by the overloading. The relationship between the overload-induced plastic zone and subsequent fatigue-induced plastic zone, and its influence on the residual-strain distributions in the perturbed plastic zone are discussed.« less

Rotor redesign for a highly loaded 1800 ft/sec tip speed fan, 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bolt, C. R.

1980-01-01

Tests were conducted on a 0.5 hub/tip ratio single-stage fan designed to produce a pressure ratio of 2.280 at an efficiency of 83.8 percent with a rotor tip speed of 548.6 m/sec (1800 ft/sec). The rotor was designed utilizing a quasi three dimensional design system and four-part, multiple-circular-arc airfoil sections. The rotor is the third in a series of single-stage fans that have included a precompression airfoil design and a multiple-circular-arc airfoil design. The stage achieved a peak efficiency of 82.8 percent after performance had deteriorated by 0.6 of a point. The design mass flow was achieved at the peak efficiency point, and the stage total pressure ratio was 2.20, which is lower than the design goal of 2.28. The surge margin of 13% from the peak efficiency point exceeded the design goal of 7%.

Risk of Deep vein thrombosis in neurosurgery: State of the art on prophylaxis protocols and best clinical practices.

PubMed

Ganau, Mario; Prisco, Lara; Cebula, Helene; Todeschi, Julien; Abid, Houssem; Ligarotti, Gianfranco; Pop, Raoul; Proust, Francois; Chibbaro, Salvatore

2017-11-01

To analytically discuss some protocols in Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)/pulmonary Embolism (PE) prophylaxis currently use in Neurosurgical Departments around the world. Analysis of the prophylaxis protocols in the English literature: An analytical and narrative review of literature concerning DVT prophylaxis protocols in Neurosurgery have been conducted by a PubMed search (back to 1978). 80 abstracts were reviewed, and 74 articles were extracted. The majority of DVT seems to develop within the first week after a neurosurgical procedure, and a linear correlation between the duration of surgery and DVT occurrence has been highlighted. The incidence of DVT seems greater for cranial (7.7%) than spinal procedures (1.5%). Although intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices provided adequate reduction of DVT/PE in some cranial and combined cranial/spinal series, low-dose subcutaneous unfractionated heparin (UFH) or low molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) further reduced the incidence, not always of DVT, but of PE. Nevertheless, low-dose heparin-based prophylaxis in cranial and spinal series risks minor and major postoperative haemorrhages: 2-4% in cranial series, 3.4% minor and 3.4% major haemorrhages in combined cranial/spinal series, and a 0.7% incidence of major/minor haemorrhages in spinal series. This analysis showed that currently most of the articles are represented by case series and case reports. As long as clear guidelines will not be defined and universally applied to this diverse group of patients, any prophylaxis for DVT and PE should be tailored to the individual patient with cautious assessment of benefits versus risks. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Using the Real-Ear-to-Coupler Difference within the American Academy of Audiology Pediatric Amplification Guideline: Protocols for Applying and Predicting Earmold RECDs.

PubMed

Moodie, Sheila; Pietrobon, Jonathan; Rall, Eileen; Lindley, George; Eiten, Leisha; Gordey, Dave; Davidson, Lisa; Moodie, K Shane; Bagatto, Marlene; Haluschak, Meredith Magathan; Folkeard, Paula; Scollie, Susan

2016-03-01

Real-ear-to-coupler difference (RECD) measurements are used for the purposes of estimating degree and configuration of hearing loss (in dB SPL ear canal) and predicting hearing aid output from coupler-based measures. Accurate measurements of hearing threshold, derivation of hearing aid fitting targets, and predictions of hearing aid output in the ear canal assume consistent matching of RECD coupling procedure (i.e., foam tip or earmold) with that used during assessment and in verification of the hearing aid fitting. When there is a mismatch between these coupling procedures, errors are introduced. The goal of this study was to quantify the systematic difference in measured RECD values obtained when using a foam tip versus an earmold with various tube lengths. Assuming that systematic errors exist, the second goal was to investigate the use of a foam tip to earmold correction for the purposes of improving fitting accuracy when mismatched RECD coupling conditions occur (e.g., foam tip at assessment, earmold at verification). Eighteen adults and 17 children (age range: 3-127 mo) participated in this study. Data were obtained using simulated ears of various volumes and earmold tubing lengths and from patients using their own earmolds. Derived RECD values based on simulated ear measurements were compared with RECD values obtained for adult and pediatric ears for foam tip and earmold coupling. Results indicate that differences between foam tip and earmold RECDs are consistent across test ears for adults and children which support the development of a correction between foam tip and earmold couplings for RECDs that can be applied across individuals. The foam tip to earmold correction values developed in this study can be used to provide improved estimations of earmold RECDs. This may support better accuracy in acoustic transforms related to transforming thresholds and/or hearing aid coupler responses to ear canal sound pressure level for the purposes of fitting behind-the-ear hearing aids. American Academy of Audiology.

Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Cholangiography: Practical Tips and Clinical Indications for Biliary Disease Management.

PubMed

Palmucci, Stefano; Roccasalva, Federica; Piccoli, Marina; Fuccio Sanzà, Giovanni; Foti, Pietro Valerio; Ragozzino, Alfonso; Milone, Pietro; Ettorre, Giovanni Carlo

2017-01-01

Since its introduction, MRCP has been improved over the years due to the introduction of several technical advances and innovations. It consists of a noninvasive method for biliary tree representation, based on heavily T2-weighted images. Conventionally, its protocol includes two-dimensional single-shot fast spin-echo images, acquired with thin sections or with multiple thick slabs. In recent years, three-dimensional T2-weighted fast-recovery fast spin-echo images have been added to the conventional protocol, increasing the possibility of biliary anatomy demonstration and leading to a significant benefit over conventional 2D imaging. A significant innovation has been reached with the introduction of hepatobiliary contrasts, represented by gadoxetic acid and gadobenate dimeglumine: they are excreted into the bile canaliculi, allowing the opacification of the biliary tree. Recently, 3D interpolated T1-weighted spoiled gradient echo images have been proposed for the evaluation of the biliary tree, obtaining images after hepatobiliary contrast agent administration. Thus, the acquisition of these excretory phases improves the diagnostic capability of conventional MRCP-based on T2 acquisitions. In this paper, technical features of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance cholangiography are briefly discussed; main diagnostic tips of hepatobiliary phase are showed, emphasizing the benefit of enhanced cholangiography in comparison with conventional MRCP.

Kinetics-Driven Crystal Facets Evolution at the Tip of Nanowires: A New Implementation of the Ostwald-Lussac Law.

PubMed

Yin, Xin; Wang, Xudong

2016-11-09

Nanocrystal facets evolution is critical for designing nanomaterial morphology and controlling their properties. In this work, we report a unique high-energy crystal facets evolution phenomenon at the tips of wurtzite zinc oxide nanowires (NWs). As the zinc vapor supersaturation decreased at the NW deposition region, the NW tip facets evolved from the (0001) surface to the {101̅3} surface and subsequently to the {112̅2} surface and eventually back to the flat (0001) surface. A series of NW tip morphology was observed in accordance to the different combinations of exposed facets. Exposure of the high-energy facets was attributed to the fluctuation of the energy barriers for the formation of different crystal facets during the layer-by-layer growth of the NW tip. The energy barrier differences between these crystal facets were quantified from the surface area ratios as a function of supersaturation. On the basis of the experimental observation and kinetics analysis, we argue that at appropriate deposition conditions exposure of the crystal facets at NW growth front is not merely determined by the surface energy. Instead, the NW may choose to expose the facets with minimal formation energy barrier, which can be determined by the Ehrlich-Schwoebel barrier variation. This empirical law for the NW tip facet formation was in analogy to the Ostwald-Lussac law of phase transformation, which brings a new insight toward nanostructure design and controlled synthesis.

Computer simulations suggest direct and stable tip to tip interaction between the outer membrane channel TolC and the isolated docking domain of the multidrug RND efflux transporter AcrB.

PubMed

Schmidt, Thomas H; Raunest, Martin; Fischer, Nadine; Reith, Dirk; Kandt, Christian

2016-07-01

One way by which bacteria achieve antibiotics resistance is preventing drug access to its target molecule for example through an overproduction of multi-drug efflux pumps of the resistance nodulation division (RND) protein super family of which AcrAB-TolC in Escherichia coli is a prominent example. Although representing one of the best studied efflux systems, the question of how AcrB and TolC interact is still unclear as the available experimental data suggest that either both proteins interact in a tip to tip manner or do not interact at all but are instead connected by a hexamer of AcrA molecules. Addressing the question of TolC-AcrB interaction, we performed a series of 100 ns - 1 µs-molecular dynamics simulations of membrane-embedded TolC in presence of the isolated AcrB docking domain (AcrB(DD)). In 5/6 simulations we observe direct TolC-AcrB(DD) interaction that is only stable on the simulated time scale when both proteins engage in a tip to tip manner. At the same time we find TolC opening and closing freely on extracellular side while remaining closed at the inner periplasmic bottleneck region, suggesting that either the simulated time is too short or additional components are required to unlock TolC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Does self-directed and web-based support for parents enhance the effects of viewing a reality television series based on the Triple P-Positive Parenting Programme?

PubMed

Sanders, Matthew; Calam, Rachel; Durand, Marianne; Liversidge, Tom; Carmont, Sue Ann

2008-09-01

This study investigated whether providing self-directed and web-based support for parents enhanced the effects of viewing a reality television series based on the Triple P - Positive Parenting Programme. Parents with a child aged 2 to 9 (N = 454) were randomly assigned to either a standard or enhanced intervention condition. In the standard television alone viewing condition, parents watched the six-episode weekly television series, 'Driving Mum and Dad Mad'. Parents in the enhanced television viewing condition received a self-help workbook, extra web support involving downloadable parenting tip sheets, audio and video streaming of positive parenting messages and email support, in addition to viewing the television series. Parents in both conditions reported significant improvements in their child's disruptive behaviour and improvements in dysfunctional parenting practices. Effects were greater for the enhanced condition as seen on the ECBI, two of the three parenting indicators and overall programme satisfaction. However, no significant differences were seen on other measures, including parent affect indicators. The level of improvement was related to number of episodes watched, with greatest changes occurring in families who watched each episode. Improvements achieved at post-intervention by parents in both groups were maintained at six-month follow-up. Online tip sheets were frequently accessed; uptake of web-based resources was highest early in the series. The value of combining self-help approaches, technology and media as part of a comprehensive public health approach to providing parenting support is discussed.

Micro-mechanical analysis of damage growth and fracture in discontinuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goree, James G.; Richardson, David E.

1990-01-01

The near-crack-tip stresses in any planar coupon of arbitrary geometry subjected to mode 1 loading may be equated to those in an infinite center-cracked panel subjected to the appropriate equivalent remote biaxial stresses (ERBS). Since this process can be done for all such mode 1 coupons, attention may be focused on the behavior of the equivalent infinite cracked panel. To calculate the ERBS, the constant term in the series expansion of the crack-tip stress must be retained. It is proposed that the ERBS may be used quantitatively to explain different fracture phenomena such as crack branching.

Personal Consumerism. Courseware Evaluation for Vocational and Technical Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smizer, Janet; And Others

This courseware evaluation rates the "Personal Consumerism" program developed by Aquarius People Materials. (The eight-program series--not contained in this document--includes understanding labels, consumer help, consumer fraud, consumer law, comparative shopping, consumerism and you, reading an advertisement, and tips on buying a used…

Growing Ideas, 1990-1993.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pranis, Eve, Ed.

1993-01-01

This series of journals includes volumes 1-4 of "Growing Ideas," a journal of garden-based learning. Each issue provides instructional ideas, horticultural information and a forum for exchange among teachers using classroom gardening to stimulate learning. Ideas in each issue are separated into three sections. The "Green Tips"…

Living in Japan. Intercultural Exchange Series. Revised.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hawkinson, Annie

The guide provides a brief introduction to the culture and language of Japan, and is designed for visitors, students, and business travelers. It offers practical information on various aspects of daily living, including: money; banks; food; restaurants; hotels; tipping; postal and telecommunications services; transportation; shopping; health and…

Buyer's Guide to Classroom Furniture.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neugebauer, Roger

1996-01-01

Provides advice to child care center directors on purchasing the center's furniture. Contains a series of questions that directors should ask related to purchasing furniture, based on advice from manufacturers and dealers. Summarizes the key factors needed to consider when purchasing classroom furniture and includes tips on buying from catalogs…

Semi-Structured Interview Protocol for Constructing Logic Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gugiu, P. Cristian; Rodriguez-Campos, Liliana

2007-01-01

This paper details a semi-structured interview protocol that evaluators can use to develop a logic model of a program's services and outcomes. The protocol presents a series of questions, which evaluators can ask of specific program informants, that are designed to: (1) identify key informants basic background and contextual information, (2)…

Development of Research-Based Protocol Aligned to Predict High Levels of Teaching Quality

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schumacher, Gary; Grigsby, Bettye; Vesey, Winona

2011-01-01

This study proposes a research-based teacher selection protocol. The protocol is intended to offer school district hiring authorities a tool to identify teacher candidates with the behaviors expected to predict effective teaching. It is hypothesized that a particular series of research-based interview questions focusing on teaching behaviors in…

Exposure to the Tips From Former Smokers Campaign Among Adolescents in the United States.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaoquan; Cai, Xiaomei

2016-05-01

Evaluation of the Tips from Former Smokers (Tips) campaign in the United States so far has focused exclusively on adult smokers. This study provides evidence on the level of exposure to Tips among adolescents in the United States, an important secondary audience for the campaign. Data came from the 2013 National Youth Tobacco Survey (N = 18 406). Exposure to Tips was measured by ad recall. Characteristics of adolescents reporting exposure versus no exposure were examined through a series of bivariate analysis linking exposure to smoking status, demographics, and important risk factors. Most adolescents in the United States (63%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 60.6%, 65.3%) were exposed to at least one Tips ad. Current smokers (70.6%, 95% CI = 67.7%, 73.4%), noncurrent smokers (67.7%, 95% CI = 65.5%, 69.7%), and high-risk never-smokers (63.8%, 95% CI = 60.2%, 67.2%) reported greater exposure than low-risk never-smokers (60.7%, 95% CI = 57.8%, 63.5%; all P < .05). Those who reported exposure were more likely to be female; be older in age; be white (vs. Hispanic); live with a smoker; have less firm smoking rules in the family; have one or more friends using tobacco or are not sure; have been exposed to tobacco advertising from one or more sources; and have skipped classes in the past 30 days. Tips has significant reach among adolescents in the United States, particularly among those with smoking experience and those whose life environments include more pro-smoking influences. Close monitoring of the Tips' impact on this important population is needed. This study shows substantial adolescent awareness of the Tips campaign in the United States. This evidence has important implications for the comprehensive evaluation of the public health impact of Tips. So far research on Tips has focused almost entirely on adult smokers. Findings of this study suggest that the potential impact of Tips on adolescents, particularly those at high risk of smoking, should become an integral part of the evaluation research agenda. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, John D. (Editor); Race, Margaret S. (Editor); Acevedo, Sara (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

This document is the report resulting from the first workshop of the series on development of the criteria for a Mars sample handling protocol. Workshop 1 was held in Bethesda, Maryland on March 20-22, 2000. This report serves to document the proceedings of Workshop 1; it summarizes relevant background information, provides an overview of the deliberations to date, and helps frame issues that will need further attention or resolution in upcoming workshops. Specific recommendations are not part of this report.

Planning and conducting meetings effectively, part I: planning a meeting.

PubMed

Harolds, Jay

2011-12-01

Meetings are held by leaders for many purposes, including conveying information, raising morale, asking for opinions, brain storming, making people part of the problem-solving process, building trust, getting to a consensus, and making decisions. However, many meetings waste time, some undermine the leader's power, and some decrease morale. Part I of this series of articles gives some tips on basic planning for decision-making meetings. Part II of this series of articles analyzes selected components of decision-making meetings. Part III of this series will be on how the chairperson keeps decision-making meetings on track to make them efficient and productive.

[Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting with covered stents in children: a preliminary study of safety and patency].

PubMed

Zurera, L J; Espejo, J J; Canis, M; Bueno, A; Vicente, J; Gilbert, J J

2014-01-01

To retrospectively analyze the safety and efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) using covered stents in children. We present 6 children (mean age, 10.6 years; mean weight, 33.5kg) who underwent TIPS with 8mm diameter Viatorr(®) covered stents for acute (n=4) or recurrent (n=2) upper digestive bleeding that could not be controlled by endoscopic measures. Five of the children had cirrhosis and the other had portal vein thrombosis with cavernous transformation. We analyzed the relapse of upper digestive bleeding, the complications that appeared, and the patency of the TIPS shunt on sequential Doppler ultrasonography or until transplantation. A single stent was implanted in a single session in each child; none of the children died. The mean transhepatic gradient decreased from 16mmHg (range: 12-21mmHg) before the procedure to 9mmHg (range: 1-15mmHg) after TIPS. One patient developed mild encephalopathy, and the girl who had portal vein thrombosis with cavernous transformation developed an acute occlusion of the TIPS that resolved after the implantation of a coaxial stent. Three children received transplants (7, 9, and 10 months after the procedure, respectively), and the patency of the TIPS was confirmed at transplantation. In the three remaining children, patency was confirmed with Doppler ultrasonography 1, 3, and 5 months after implantation. None of the children had new episodes of upper digestive bleeding during follow-up after implantation (mean: 8.1 months). Our results indicate that TIPS with 8mm diameter Viatorr(®) covered stents can be safe and efficacious for the treatment of upper digestive bleeding due to gastroesophageal varices in cirrhotic children; our findings need to be corroborated in larger series. Copyright © 2011 SERAM. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

In-planta detection and monitorization of endophytic colonization by a Beauveria bassiana strain using a new-developed nested and quantitative PCR-based assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy.

PubMed

Landa, B B; López-Díaz, C; Jiménez-Fernández, D; Montes-Borrego, M; Muñoz-Ledesma, F J; Ortiz-Urquiza, A; Quesada-Moraga, E

2013-10-01

Beauveria bassiana strain 04/01-Tip obtained from larvae of the opium poppy stem gall Iraella luteipes endophytically colonizes opium poppy plants and protect it against this pest. Development of a specific, rapid and sensitive technique that allows accurately determining the process and factors leading to the establishment of this strain in opium poppy plants would be essential to achieve its efficient control in a large field scale. For that purpose in the present study, species-specific primers that can be used in conventional or quantitative PCR protocols were developed for specifically identification and detection of B. bassiana in plant tissues. The combination of the designed BB.fw/BB.rv primer set with the universal ITS1-F/ITS4 primer set in a two-step nested-PCR approach, has allowed the amplification of up to 10fg of B. bassiana. This represented an increase in sensitivity of 10000- and 1000-fold of detection than when using the BB.fw/BB.rv primers in a single or single-tube semi-nested PCR approaches, respectively. The BB.fw and BB.rv primer set were subsequently optimized to be used in real time quantitative PCR assays and allowed to accurately quantify B. bassiana DNA in different plant DNA backgrounds (leaves and seeds) without losing accuracy and efficiency. The qPCR protocol was used to monitor the endophytic colonization of opium poppy leaves byB. bassiana after inoculation with the strain EABb 04/01-Tip, detecting as low as 26fg of target DNA in leaves and a decrease in fungal biomass over time. PCR quantification data were supported in parallel with CLMS by the monitoring of spatial and temporal patterns of leaf and stem colonization using a GFP-tagged transformant of the B. bassiana EABb 04/01-Tip strain, which enabled to demonstrate that B. bassiana effectively colonizes aerial tissues of opium poppy plants mainly through intercellular spaces and even leaf trichomes. A decline in endophytic colonization was also observed by the last sampling times, i.e. from 10 to 15days after inoculation, although fungal structures still remained present in the leaf tissues. These newly developed molecular protocols should facilitate the detection, quantification and monitoring of endophytic B. bassiana strains in different tissues and host plants and would help to unravel the factors and process governing the specific endophytic association between opium poppy and strain EABb 04/01-Tip providing key insights to formulate a sustainable strategy for I. luteipes management in the host. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A model for growth of a single fungal hypha based on well-mixed tanks in series: simulation of nutrient and vesicle transport in aerial reproductive hyphae.

PubMed

Balmant, Wellington; Sugai-Guérios, Maura Harumi; Coradin, Juliana Hey; Krieger, Nadia; Furigo Junior, Agenor; Mitchell, David Alexander

2015-01-01

Current models that describe the extension of fungal hyphae and development of a mycelium either do not describe the role of vesicles in hyphal extension or do not correctly describe the experimentally observed profile for distribution of vesicles along the hypha. The present work uses the n-tanks-in-series approach to develop a model for hyphal extension that describes the intracellular transport of nutrient to a sub-apical zone where vesicles are formed and then transported to the tip, where tip extension occurs. The model was calibrated using experimental data from the literature for the extension of reproductive aerial hyphae of three different fungi, and was able to describe different profiles involving acceleration and deceleration of the extension rate. A sensitivity analysis showed that the supply of nutrient to the sub-apical vesicle-producing zone is a key factor influencing the rate of extension of the hypha. Although this model was used to describe the extension of a single reproductive aerial hypha, the use of the n-tanks-in-series approach to representing the hypha means that the model has the flexibility to be extended to describe the growth of other types of hyphae and the branching of hyphae to form a complete mycelium.

Texas Wills. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 14, Spring 1987.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the different types of wills recognized in Texas, their preparation, provisions, and execution. First, information about wills is presented, including definitions of relevant terms and a…

Physical Education for Students with Special Needs. Curriculum Support Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mahon, Michael J.

The guide is intended to assist Manitoba physical education teachers in the process of integrating students with disabilities into regular physical education classes. The manual provides an introduction to students with special needs, stresses the need to create an accepting environment, discusses various teaching tips, and highlights resources…

What To Do When the Micro Fails.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Corwin, John K.; Sandiford, Janice R.

This brief description of the microcomputer service and maintenance system at Miami Dade Community College/North includes a series of hints, tips, and lists of information sources, suppliers, and regulatory codes that could prove helpful to school districts that wish to conduct on-site repair of computers. These include: (1) cleaning materials…

Comparison of test protocols for standard room/corner tests

Treesearch

R. H. White; M. A. Dietenberger; H. Tran; O. Grexa; L. Richardson; K. Sumathipala; M. Janssens

1998-01-01

As part of international efforts to evaluate alternative reaction-to-fire tests, several series of room/comer tests have been conducted. This paper reviews the overall results of related projects in which different test protocols for standard room/corner tests were used. Differences in the test protocols involved two options for the ignition burner scenario and whether...

Modelling Laccoliths: Fluid-Driven Fracturing in the Lab

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ball, T. V.; Neufeld, J. A.

2017-12-01

Current modelling of the formation of laccoliths neglects the necessity to fracture rock layers for propagation to occur [1]. In magmatic intrusions at depth the idea of fracture toughness is used to characterise fracturing, however an analogue for near surface intrusions has yet to be explored [2]. We propose an analytical model for laccolith emplacement that accounts for the energy required to fracture at the tip of an intrusion. For realistic physical parameters we find that a lag region exists between the fluid magma front and the crack tip where large negative pressures in the tip cause volatiles to exsolve from the magma. Crucially, the dynamics of this tip region controls the spreading due to the competition between viscous forces and fracture energy. We conduct a series of complementary experiments to investigate fluid-driven fracturing of adhered layers and confirm the existence of two regimes: viscosity dominant spreading, controlled by the pressure in the lag region, and fracture energy dominant spreading, controlled by the energy required to fracture layers. Our experiments provide the first observations, and evolution, of a vapour tip. These experiments and our simplified model provide insight into the key physical processes in near surface magmatic intrusions with applications to fluid-driven fracturing more generally. Michaut J. Geophys. Res. 116(B5), B05205. Bunger & Cruden J. Geophys. Res. 116(B2), B02203.

Blade-to-Blade Variations in Shocks Upstream of Both a Forward-Swept and an Aft-Swept Fan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Podboy, Gary G.; Krupar, Martin J.

2006-01-01

Detailed laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) flow field measurements were made upstream of two fans, one forward-swept and one aft-swept, in order to learn more about the shocks which propagate upstream of these rotors when they are operated at supersonic tip speeds. The blade-to-blade variations in the flows associated with these shocks are thought to be responsible for generating Multiple Pure Tone (MPT) noise. The measured blade-to-blade variations are documented in this report through a series of slideshows which show relative Mach number contours computed from the velocity measurements. Data are presented for the forward-swept fan operating at three speeds (corresponding to tip relative Mach numbers of 0.817, 1.074, and 1.189), and for the aft-swept fan operating at two (tip relative Mach numbers of 1.074 and 1.189). These LDV data illustrate how the perturbations in the upstream flow field created by the rotating blades vary with axial position, radial position and rotor speed. As expected, at the highest tested speed the forward-swept fan swallowed the shocks which occur in the tip region, whereas the aftswept fan did not. This resulted in a much smaller flow disturbance just upstream of the tip of the forward-swept fan. Nevertheless, further upstream the two fan flows were much more similar.

Mn/ROAD testing protocols : vol. 1

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-12-01

This report presents a series of testing protocols used at the Minnesota Road Research Project (Mn/ROAD), the Minnesota Department of Transportation's (Mn/DOT) pavement testing facility. This report helps establish a history of the tests conducted an...

Benchmarking the ERG valve tip and MRI Interventions Smart Flow neurocatheter convection-enhanced delivery system's performance in a gel model of the brain: employing infusion protocols proposed for gene therapy for Parkinson's disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sillay, Karl; Schomberg, Dominic; Hinchman, Angelica; Kumbier, Lauren; Ross, Chris; Kubota, Ken; Brodsky, Ethan; Miranpuri, Gurwattan

2012-04-01

Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is an advanced infusion technique used to deliver therapeutic agents into the brain. CED has shown promise in recent clinical trials. Independent verification of published parameters is warranted with benchmark testing of published parameters in applicable models such as gel phantoms, ex vivo tissue and in vivo non-human animal models to effectively inform planned and future clinical therapies. In the current study, specific performance characteristics of two CED infusion catheter systems, such as backflow, infusion cloud morphology, volume of distribution (mm3) versus the infused volume (mm3) (Vd/Vi) ratios, rate of infusion (µl min-1) and pressure (mmHg), were examined to ensure published performance standards for the ERG valve-tip (VT) catheter. We tested the hypothesis that the ERG VT catheter with an infusion protocol of a steady 1 µl min-1 functionality is comparable to the newly FDA approved MRI Interventions Smart Flow (SF) catheter with the UCSF infusion protocol in an agarose gel model. In the gel phantom models, no significant difference was found in performance parameters between the VT and SF catheter. We report, for the first time, such benchmark characteristics in CED between these two otherwise similar single-end port VT with stylet and end-port non-stylet infusion systems. Results of the current study in agarose gel models suggest that the performance of the VT catheter is comparable to the SF catheter and warrants further investigation as a tool in the armamentarium of CED techniques for eventual clinical use and application.

Metallic Electrode: Semiconducting Nanotube Junction Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamada, Toshishige; Biegel, Bryon (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

A model is proposed for two observed current-voltage (I-V) patterns in an experiment with a scanning tunneling microscope tip and a carbon nanotube [Collins et al., Science 278, 100 ('97)]. We claim that there are two contact modes for a tip (metal) -nanotube semi conductor) junction depending whether the alignment of the metal and semiconductor band structure is (1) variable (vacuum-gap) or (2) fixed (touching) with V. With the tip grounded, the tunneling case in (1) would produce large dI/dV with V > 0, small dI/dV with V < 0, and I = 0 near V = 0 for an either n- or p-nanotube. However, the Schottky mechanism in (2) would result in forward current with V < 0 for an n-nanotube, while with V > 0 for an p-nanotube. The two observed I-V patterns are thus entirely explained by a tip-nanotube contact of the two types, where the nanotube must be n-type. We apply this picture to the source-drain I-V characteristics in a long nanotube-channel field-effect-transistor (Zhou et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 76, 1597 ('00)], and show that two independent metal-semiconductor junctions connected in series are responsible for the observed behavior.

Algorithmic localisation of noise sources in the tip region of a low-speed axial flow fan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tóth, Bence; Vad, János

2017-04-01

An objective and algorithmised methodology is proposed to analyse beamform data obtained for axial fans. Its application is demonstrated in a case study regarding the tip region of a low-speed cooling fan. First, beamforming is carried out in a co-rotating frame of reference. Then, a distribution of source strength is extracted along the circumference of the rotor at the blade tip radius in each analysed third-octave band. The circumferential distributions are expanded into Fourier series, which allows for filtering out the effects of perturbations, on the basis of an objective criterion. The remaining Fourier components are then considered as base sources to determine the blade-passage-periodic flow mechanisms responsible for the broadband noise. Based on their frequency and angular location, the base sources are grouped together. This is done using the fuzzy c-means clustering method to allow the overlap of the source mechanisms. The number of clusters is determined in a validity analysis. Finally, the obtained clusters are assigned to source mechanisms based on the literature. Thus, turbulent boundary layer - trailing edge interaction noise, tip leakage flow noise, and double leakage flow noise are identified.

Management of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)-associated Refractory Hepatic Encephalopathy by Shunt Reduction Using the Parallel Technique: Outcomes of a Retrospective Case Series

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

Cookson, Daniel T., E-mail: danielthomascookson@yahoo.co.uk; Zaman, Zubayr; Gordon-Smith, James

2011-02-15

Purpose: To investigate the reproducibility and technical and clinical success of the parallel technique of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) reduction in the management of refractory hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Materials and Methods: A 10-mm-diameter self-expanding stent graft and a 5-6-mm-diameter balloon-expandable stent were placed in parallel inside the existing TIPS in 8 patients via a dual unilateral transjugular approach. Changes in portosystemic pressure gradient and HE grade were used as primary end points. Results: TIPS reduction was technically successful in all patients. Mean {+-} standard deviation portosystemic pressure gradient before and after shunt reduction was 4.9 {+-} 3.6 mmHg (range,more » 0-12 mmHg) and 10.5 {+-} 3.9 mmHg (range, 6-18 mmHg). Duration of follow-up was 137 {+-} 117.8 days (range, 18-326 days). Clinical improvement of HE occurred in 5 patients (62.5%) with resolution of HE in 4 patients (50%). Single episodes of recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage occurred in 3 patients (37.5%). These were self-limiting in 2 cases and successfully managed in 1 case by correction of coagulopathy and blood transfusion. Two of these patients (25%) died, one each of renal failure and hepatorenal failure. Conclusion: The parallel technique of TIPS reduction is reproducible and has a high technical success rate. A dual unilateral transjugular approach is advantageous when performing this procedure. The parallel technique allows repeat bidirectional TIPS adjustment and may be of significant clinical benefit in the management of refractory HE.« less

Outcomes of torsional microcoaxial phacoemulsification performed by 12-degree and 22-degree bent tips.

PubMed

Helvacioglu, Firat; Yeter, Celal; Tunc, Zeki; Sencan, Sadik

2013-08-01

To compare the safety and efficacy of Ozil Intelligent Phaco torsional microcoaxial phacoemulsification surgeries performed with 12-degree and 22-degree bent tips using the Infiniti Vision System. Maltepe University School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology, Istanbul, Turkey. Comparative case series. Eyes were assigned to 2.2 mm microcoaxial phacoemulsification using the torsional mode with a 22-degree bent tip (Group 1) or a 12-degree bent tip (Group 2). The primary outcome measures were ultrasound time (UST), cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), longitudinal and torsional ultrasound (US) amplitudes, mean surgical time, mean volume of balanced salt solution used, and surgical complications. Both groups included 45 eyes. The mean UST, CDE, longitudinal US amplitude, and torsional US amplitude were 65 seconds ± 27.23 (SD), 11.53 ± 6.99, 0.22 ± 0.26, and 42.86 ± 15.64, respectively, in Group 1 and 84 ± 45.04 seconds, 16.68 ± 10.66, 0.48 ± 0.68, and 46.27 ± 14.74, respectively, in Group 2. The mean UST, CDE, and longitudinal amplitudes were significantly lower in Group 1 (P=.003, P=.008, and P=.022, respectively). The mean volume of balanced salt solution was 73.33 ± 28.58 cc in Group 1 and 82.08 ± 26.21 cc in Group 2 (P=.134). Torsional phacoemulsification performed with 22-degree bent tips provided more effective lens removal than 12-degree bent tips, with a lower UST and CDE. Copyright © 2013 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differences between the family-centered "COPCA" program and traditional infant physical therapy based on neurodevelopmental treatment principles.

PubMed

Dirks, Tineke; Blauw-Hospers, Cornill H; Hulshof, Lily J; Hadders-Algra, Mijna

2011-09-01

Evidence for effectiveness of pediatric physical therapy in infants at high risk for developmental motor disorders is limited. Therefore, "Coping With and Caring for Infants With Special Needs" (COPCA), a family-centered, early intervention program, was developed. The COPCA program is based on 2 components: (1) family involvement and educational parenting and (2) the neuromotor principles of the neuronal group selection theory. The COPCA coach uses principles of coaching to encourage the family's own capacities for solving problems of daily care and incorporating variation, along with trial and error in daily activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the content of sessions of the home-based, early intervention COPCA program differs from that of traditional infant physical therapy (TIP) sessions, which in the Netherlands are largely based on neurodevelopmental treatment. The study was conducted at the University Medical Center Groningen in the Netherlands. A quantitative video analysis of therapy sessions was conducted with infants participating in a 2-arm randomized trial. Forty-six infants at high risk for developmental motor disorders were randomly assigned to receive COPCA (n=21) or TIP (n=25) between 3 and 6 months corrected age. Intervention sessions were videotaped at 4 and 6 months corrected age and analyzed with a standardized observation protocol for the classification of physical therapy actions. Outcome parameters were relative amounts of time spent on specific physical therapy actions. The content of COPCA and TIP differed substantially. For instance, in TIP sessions, more time was spent on facilitation techniques, including handling, than in COPCA sessions (29% versus 3%, respectively). During COPCA, more time was spent on family coaching and education than during TIP (16% versus 4%, respectively). The major limitation of the study was its restriction to the Netherlands, implying that findings cannot be generalized automatically to other countries. The COPCA program differs broadly from TIP as applied in the Netherlands. Studies on the effectiveness of this family-centered program are needed.

Imaging of Lipids and Metabolites Using Nanospray Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

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

Lanekoff, Ingela; Laskin, Julia

In recent years, mass spectroscopy imaging (MSI) has emerged as a foundational technique in metabolomics and drug screening providing deeper understanding of complex mechanistic pathways within biochemical systems and biological organisms. We have been invited to contribute a chapter to a new Springer series volume, entitled “Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Small Molecules”. The volume is planned for the highly successful lab protocol series Methods in Molecular Biology, published by Humana Press, USA. The volume is aimed to equip readers with step-by-step mass spectrometric imaging protocols and bring rapidly maturing methods of MS imaging to life science researchers. The chapter willmore » provide a detailed protocol of ambient MSI by use of nanospray desorption electrospray ionization.« less

Dynamic helical computed tomography of the pituitary gland in healthy dogs.

PubMed

Van der Vlugt-Meijer, Roselinda H; Meij, Björn P; Voorhout, George

2007-01-01

Dynamic helical computed tomography (CT) of the pituitary gland can be used to image the three-dimensional shape and dimensions of abnormalities within the pituitary gland. The aim of this study was to develop a protocol for dynamic helical CT of the pituitary gland in healthy dogs as a future reference study for patients with pituitary disease. Dynamic helical series of nine scans of the pituitary gland during and following contrast medium injection were performed in six healthy dogs using the following protocols: a series with 1 mm collimation and a table feed per X-ray tube rotation of 2 mm (pitch of 2) in six dogs, a series with 2 mm collimation and pitch of 2 in three dogs, and a series with 1 mm collimation and pitch of 1 in three other dogs. Multiplanar reconstructions of the images were made using a reconstruction index of 0.5. Images of all series were assessed visually for enhancement of the arteries, the neurohypophysis, and the adenohypophysis. The enhancement pattern of the neurohypophysis was distinguished adequately from that of the adenohypophysis in five dogs that were scanned with 1 mm collimation and pitch of 2, but the difference was less discernable when the other protocols were used. The carotid artery, its trifurcation, and the arterial cerebral circle were best visualized in dorsal reconstructions. Dynamic helical CT of the pituitary gland in healthy dogs can be performed with 1 mm collimation and pitch of 2, and a scan length that includes the entire pituitary region. Using this protocol, with the specific scanner used, the neurohypophysis, the adenohypophysis, and the surrounding vascular structures are adequately visualized.

Effect of axial load on mode shapes and frequencies of beams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shaker, F. J.

1975-01-01

An investigation of the effect of axial load on the natural frequencies and mode shapes of uniform beams and of a cantilevered beam with a concentrated mass at the tip is presented. Characteristic equations which yield the frequencies and mode shape functions for the various cases are given. The solutions to these equations are presented by a series of graphs so that frequency as a function of axial load can readily be determined. The effect of axial load on the mode shapes are also depicted by another series of graphs.

Dioxygen Reactivity of Biomimetic Fe(II) Complexes with Noninnocent Catecholate, o-Aminophenolate, and o-Phenylenediamine Ligands

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

This study describes the O2 reactivity of a series of high-spin mononuclear Fe(II) complexes each containing the facially coordinating tris(4,5-diphenyl-1-methylimidazol-2-yl)phosphine (Ph2TIP) ligand and one of the following bidentate, redox-active ligands: 4-tert-butylcatecholate (tBuCatH–), 4,6-di-tert-butyl-2-aminophenolate (tBu2APH–), or 4-tert-butyl-1,2-phenylenediamine (tBuPDA). The preparation and X-ray structural characterization of [Fe2+(Ph2TIP)(tBuCatH)]OTf, [3]OTf and [Fe2+(Ph2TIP)(tBuPDA)](OTf)2, [4](OTf)2 are described here, whereas [Fe2+(Ph2TIP)(tBu2APH)]OTf, [2]OTf was reported in our previous paper [Bittner et al., Chem.—Eur. J.2013,19, 9686–9698]. These complexes mimic the substrate-bound active sites of nonheme iron dioxygenases, which catalyze the oxidative ring-cleavage of aromatic substrates like catechols and aminophenols. Each complex is oxidized in the presence of O2, and the geometric and electronic structures of the resulting complexes were examined with spectroscopic (absorption, EPR, Mössbauer, resonance Raman) and density functional theory (DFT) methods. Complex [3]OTf reacts rapidly with O2 to yield the ferric-catecholate species [Fe3+(Ph2TIP)(tBuCat)]+ (3ox), which undergoes further oxidation to generate an extradiol cleavage product. In contrast, complex [4]2+ experiences a two-electron (2e–), ligand-based oxidation to give [Fe2+(Ph2TIP)(tBuDIBQ)]2+ (4ox), where DIBQ is o-diiminobenzoquinone. The reaction of [2]+ with O2 is also a 2e– process, yet in this case both the Fe center and tBu2AP ligand are oxidized; the resulting complex (2ox) is best described as [Fe3+(Ph2TIP)(tBu2ISQ)]+, where ISQ is o-iminobenzosemiquinone. Thus, the oxidized complexes display a remarkable continuum of electronic structures ranging from [Fe3+(L2–)]+ (3ox) to [Fe3+(L•–)]2+ (2ox) to [Fe2+(L0)]2+ (4ox). Notably, the O2 reaction rates vary by a factor of 105 across the series, following the order [3]+ > [2]+ > [4]2+, even though the complexes have similar structures and Fe3+/2+ redox potentials. To account for the kinetic data, we examined the relative abilities of the title complexes to bind O2 and participate in H-atom transfer reactions. We conclude that the trend in O2 reactivity can be rationalized by accounting for the role of proton transfer(s) in the overall reaction. PMID:24697567

Observation of an electrical signal from a single molecule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aslan, Arooj; Shaheen, Noor; Dobiszewski, Kyle; Kanwal, Alokik; Farrow, Reginald; Thomas, Gordon

We have attached a folded protein molecule to the tip of a carbon nanotube using electrophoresis. We have then measured the electrons produced when the protein catalyzes a series of reactions. As an initial example of the reactions, we have used the catalysis by glucose-oxidase of glucose. We can show that the characteristic dynamic signals from the molecule scale with the glucose concentration. The molecule on the carbon nanotube tip is stable with respect to time under controlled conditions. The signals also indicate the glucose diffusion as its concentration is locally depleted at the nanotube by the catalysis. We use a second carbon nanotube with a laccase molecule on its tip to complete the circuit with an oxygen reaction. In a previous stage of this process, the other end of the nanotube is attached with a low-impedance electrical connection to a Ti thin film and the measuring circuitry. This work is an early step toward investigating the feasibility of an implantable glucose monitor to help treat diabetes.

A Microwave Blade Tip Clearance Sensor for Propulsion Health Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woike, Mark R.; Abdul-Aziz, Ali; Bencic, Timothy J.

2010-01-01

Microwave sensor technology is being investigated by the NASA Glenn Research Center as a means of making non-contact structural health measurements in the hot sections of gas turbine engines. This type of sensor technology is beneficial in that it is accurate, it has the ability to operate at extremely high temperatures, and is unaffected by contaminants that are present in turbine engines. It is specifically being targeted for use in the High Pressure Turbine (HPT) and High Pressure Compressor (HPC) sections to monitor the structural health of the rotating components. It is intended to use blade tip clearance to monitor blade growth and wear and blade tip timing to monitor blade vibration and deflection. The use of microwave sensors for this application is an emerging concept. Techniques on their use and calibration needed to be developed. As a means of better understanding the issues associated with the microwave sensors, a series of experiments have been conducted to evaluate their performance for aero engine applications. This paper presents the results of these experiments.

Aerodynamic Comparison of Hyper-Elliptic Cambered Span (HECS) Wings with Conventional Configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lazos, Barry S.; Visser, Kenneth D.

2006-01-01

An experimental study was conducted to examine the aerodynamic and flow field characteristics of hyper-elliptic cambered span (HECS) wings and compare results with more conventional configurations used for induced drag reduction. Previous preliminary studies, indicating improved L/D characteristics when compared to an elliptical planform prompted this more detailed experimental investigation. Balance data were acquired on a series of swept and un-swept HECS wings, a baseline elliptic planform, two winglet designs and a raked tip configuration. Seven-hole probe wake surveys were also conducted downstream of a number of the configurations. Wind tunnel results indicated aerodynamic performance levels of all but one of the HECS wings exceeded that of the other configurations. The flow field data surveys indicate the HECS configurations displaced the tip vortex farther outboard of the wing than the Baseline configuration. Minimum drag was observed on the raked tip configuration and it was noted that the winglet wake lacked the cohesive vortex structure present in the wakes of the other configurations.

Let's Team Up! A Checklist for Paraeducators, Teachers and Principals. NEA Checklist Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerlach, Kent

This checklist is designed to help paraeducators, teachers, and principals understand their roles and responsibilities as they relate to each other. It offers tips for teachers on working effectively with paraeducators, practical suggestions for paraeducators on clarifying their jobs and relationships with students and school staff, and advice for…

Guide to Alternative Mortgage Instruments. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 4, Spring 1985.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the various alternative mortgage instruments, including their major advantages and disadvantages. First, an evaluation form for the packet is presented. Next, a summary presentation on four basic…

Health Rocks! Beginning Level. 4-H Healthy Life Series. Revised

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Marilyn

2012-01-01

Written for 8 to 12 year olds. The 21 activities use hands-on experience to facilitate youth learning, including concepts review and learning assessment at each chapter's end. A retrospective impact evaluation is included in the appendices along with additional resources, glossary, training outline and teaching tips. An accompanying cd-rom…

Portfolio Assessment: A Handbook for Educators. Assessment Bookshelf Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barton, James, Ed.; Collins, Angelo, Ed.

This guide contains practical steps for integrating portfolios into any K-12 classroom and tips for effective classroom management of portfolios. It also contains actual examples of portfolios in action in a variety of subject areas. The chapters are: (1) "Starting Out: Designing Your Portfolio" (James Barton and Angelo Collins); (2) "Preparing…

Investing in Undeveloped Land. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 9, Spring 1986.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the opportunities and pitfalls associated with investments in undeveloped land, and ways to reduce the risk of ownership. A summary instructor's presentation is provided, which: (1) defines…

Health Rocks! Intermediate Level. 4-H Healthy Life Series

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Marilyn

2009-01-01

Written for 12 to 14 year olds. The 25 activities use hands-on experience to facilitate youth learning, including concepts review and learning assessment at each chapter's end. A retrospective impact evaluation is included in the appendices along with additional resources, glossary, training outline and teaching tips. An accompanying cd-rom…

Preventing, identifying, and managing cosmetic procedure complications, part 2: lasers and chemical peels.

PubMed

Brown, Megan

2016-08-01

Part 1 of this series highlighted some of the potential complications that have been associated with soft tissue augmentation and botulinum toxin injections. In part 2, tips for how dermatology residents may prevent, identify, and manage complications from lasers and chemical peels for optimal patient outcomes are provided.

Ten Time-Saving Tips for Undergraduate Research Mentors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coker, Jeffrey Scott; Davies, Eric

2006-01-01

Undergraduate research experiences can be extremely valuable for students, but can also be very time-consuming for mentors. A series of surveys were administered to plant biologists during the last 4 years to understand the perspectives of mentors on training undergraduate and high school student researchers. The survey responses provided a wealth…

How to Publish: Tips from Two Centurions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, David W.; Johnson, Roger T.

2016-01-01

There are no easy guidelines to follow in submitting articles to journals, but based on our perspective and experience, we do have a few suggestions. Conduct research that tests a well-formulated, strategic, powerful, and profound theory and contains enough data to compute an effect size. Create a body of knowledge by conducting a series of…

Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Passenger Safety, Grade 3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains four lessons and an appendix of school bus safety tips for use in grade 3. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing…

Innovative Teaching Ideas. A Sharing of Teaching Tips, Ideas and Methods.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tenney, Richard W., Ed.; And Others

Compiled from materials collected from 150 teachers of agriculture across New York State who participated in a series of 11 regional agriculture inservice workshops, this resource guide contains innovative techniques for classroom operation as well as suggestions for using available resources. The ideas have been organized into the following eight…

Online immunoaffinity LC/MS/MS. A general method to increase sensitivity and specificity: How do you do it and what do you need?

PubMed

Dufield, Dawn R; Radabaugh, Melissa R

2012-02-01

There is an increased emphasis on hyphenated techniques such as immunoaffinity LC/MS/MS (IA-LC/MS/MS) or IA-LC/MRM. These techniques offer competitive advantages with respect to sensitivity and selectivity over traditional LC/MS and are complementary to ligand binding assays (LBA) or ELISA's. However, these techniques are not entirely straightforward and there are several tips and tricks to routine sample analysis. We describe here our methods and procedures for how to perform online IA-LC/MS/MS including a detailed protocol for the preparation of antibody (Ab) enrichment columns. We have included sample trapping and Ab methods. Furthermore, we highlight tips, tricks, minimal and optimal approaches. This technology has been shown to be viable for several applications, species and fluids from small molecules to proteins and biomarkers to PK assays. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Large Volume, Behaviorally-relevant Illumination for Optogenetics in Non-human Primates.

PubMed

Acker, Leah C; Pino, Erica N; Boyden, Edward S; Desimone, Robert

2017-10-03

This protocol describes a large-volume illuminator, which was developed for optogenetic manipulations in the non-human primate brain. The illuminator is a modified plastic optical fiber with etched tip, such that the light emitting surface area is > 100x that of a conventional fiber. In addition to describing the construction of the large-volume illuminator, this protocol details the quality-control calibration used to ensure even light distribution. Further, this protocol describes techniques for inserting and removing the large volume illuminator. Both superficial and deep structures may be illuminated. This large volume illuminator does not need to be physically coupled to an electrode, and because the illuminator is made of plastic, not glass, it will simply bend in circumstances when traditional optical fibers would shatter. Because this illuminator delivers light over behaviorally-relevant tissue volumes (≈ 10 mm 3 ) with no greater penetration damage than a conventional optical fiber, it facilitates behavioral studies using optogenetics in non-human primates.

Tailoring protocols for chest CT applications: when and how?

PubMed Central

Iezzi, Roberto; Larici, Anna Rita; Franchi, Paola; Marano, Riccardo; Magarelli, Nicola; Posa, Alessandro; Merlino, Biagio; Manfredi, Riccardo; Colosimo, Cesare

2017-01-01

In the medical era of early detection of diseases and tailored therapies, an accurate characterization and staging of the disease is pivotal for treatment planning. The widespread use of computed tomography (CT)—often with the use of contrast material (CM)—probably represents the most important advance in diagnostic radiology. The result is a marked increase in radiation exposure of the population for medical purposes, with its intrinsic carcinogenic potential, and CM affecting kidney function. The radiologists should aim to minimize patient’s risk by reducing radiation exposure and CM amount, while maintaining the highest image quality. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to perform “patient-centric imaging”. The purpose of this review is to provide radiologists with “tips and tricks” to control radiation dose at CT, summarizing technical artifices in order to reduce image noise and increase image contrast. Also chest CT tailored protocols are supplied, with particular attention to three most common thoracic CT protocols: aortic/cardiac CT angiography (CTA), pulmonary CTA, and routine chest CT. PMID:29097345

A new protocol for functional analysis of adipogenesis using reverse transfection technology and time-lapse video microscopy.

PubMed

Grönniger, Elke; Wessel, Sonja; Kühn, Sonja Christin; Söhle, Jörn; Wenck, Horst; Stäb, Franz; Winnefeld, Marc

2010-07-01

Since the worldwide increase in obesity represents a growing challenge for healthcare systems, research focusing on fat cell metabolism has become a focal point of interest. Here, we describe a small interfering RNA (siRNA)-technology-based screening method to study fat cell differentiation in human primary preadipocytes that could be further developed towards an automated middle-throughput screening procedure. First, we established optimal conditions for the reverse transfection of human primary preadipocytes demonstrating that an efficient reverse transfection of preadipocytes is technically feasible. Aligning the processes of reverse transfection and fat cell differentiation utilizing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma)-siRNA, we showed that preadipocyte differentiation was suppressed by knock-down of PPAR gamma, the key regulator of fat cell differentiation. The use of fluorescently labelled fatty acids in combination with fluorescence time-lapse microscopy over a longer period of time enabled us to quantify the PPAR gamma phenotype. Additionally, our data demonstrate that reverse transfection of human cultured preadipocytes with TIP60 (HIV-1 Tat-interacting protein 60)-siRNA lead to a TIP60 knock-down and subsequently inhibits fat cell differentiation, suggesting a role of this protein in human adipogenesis. In conclusion, we established a protocol that allows for an efficient functional and time-dependent analysis by quantitative time-lapse microscopy to identify novel adipogenesis-associated genes.

Environmental triggers of Past Ebola Outbreaks in Africa, 1981 - 2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dartevelle, S.; NguyRobertson, A. L.

2016-12-01

Ebola virus, especially its most common and lethal form, Zaire Ebolavirus, has eluded scientists nearly 50 years. What is its primary host? Why does it go dormant to suddenly to reappear full force years later? What are the driving forces behind its intriguing dynamic? It has been surmised that local environmental factors (such as droughts, seasons) might be at play behind the on-and-off Ebola outbreak outbursts. However, so far, no clear lead has been demonstrated making Ebola a constant hidden lethal menace lurking in the environment for many African communities. We have analyzed long-term time-series of three environmental variables that influence the controlling factor behind the cycle of Ebola virus outbreaks: (i) vegetation health, as determined from the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) collected by AVHRR and MODIS satellite sensors, and the weather variables (ii) temperature and (iii) precipitation from the Climate Forecast System ver. 2. Time series data were averaged monthly and spatially over a 100 km grid around past known outbreak locations. Seasonal effects were removed from these time series before applying statistical analyses identifying causal linkages between NDVI, temperature, precipitation and Ebola outbreaks. Likewise, possible tipping-points prior to outbreaks (i.e., early warning signals of an upcoming outbreak) were identified. Our results indicate that there is a causal dynamic link between outbreaks and the three environmental variables examined months prior to an outbreak. This was likely due to an abnormal change in the local precipitation pattern which influence NDVI values and to a lesser extent temperature. Furthermore, our results provide evidence that these factors demonstrate early warning signals of a dynamical system at a tipping-point, prior to a future outbreak. These tipping-point or early warning models may open new ways to furthermore develop forecast models of future Ebola outbreaks. [US Government — Approved for Public Release 16-560].

Innovations for Evaluation Research: Multiform Protocols, Visual Analog Scaling, and the Retrospective Pretest-Posttest Design.

PubMed

Chang, Rong; Little, Todd D

2018-06-01

In this article, we review three innovative methods: multiform protocols, visual analog scaling, and the retrospective pretest-posttest design that can be used in evaluation research. These three techniques have been proposed for decades, but unfortunately, they are still not utilized readily in evaluation research. Our goal is to familiarize researchers with these underutilized research techniques that could reduce personnel effort and costs for data collection while producing better inferences for a study. We begin by discussing their applications and special unique features. We then discuss each technique's strengths and limitations and offer practical tips on how to better implement these methods in evaluation research. We then showcase two recent empirical studies that implement these methods in real-world evaluation research applications.

75 FR 63841 - Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-18

...; [email protected] . Signal-to-Noise Enhancement in Imaging Applications Using a Time-Series of Images... reduction in imaging applications that use a time-series of images. In one embodiment of the invention, a time-series of images is acquired using a same imaging protocol of the same subject area, but the...

Examining Relay Ramp Evolution Through Paleo-shoreline Deformation Analysis, Warner Valley Fault, Oregon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, C. S.; Dawers, N. H.

2017-12-01

Fault growth is often accomplished by linking a series of en echelon faults through relay ramps. A relay ramp is the area between two overlapping fault segments that tilts and deforms as the faults accrue displacement. The structural evolution of breached normal fault relay ramps remains poorly understood because of the difficulty in defining how slip is partitioned between the most basinward fault (known as the outboard fault), the overlapping fault (inboard fault), and any ramp-breaching linking faults. Along the Warner Valley fault in south-central Oregon, two relay ramps displaying different fault linkage geometries are lined with a series of paleo-lacustrine shorelines that record a Pleistocene paleolake regression. The inner edges of these shorelines act as paleo-horizontal datums that have been deformed by fault activity, and are used to measure relative slip variations across the relay ramp bounding faults. By measuring the elevation changes using a 10m digital elevation model (DEM) of shoreline inner edges, we estimate the amount of slip partitioned between the inboard, outboard and ramp-breaching linking faults. In order to attribute shoreline deformation to fault activity we identify shoreline elevation anomalies, where deformation exceeds a ± 3.34 m window, which encompass our conservative estimates of natural variability in the shoreline geomorphology and the error associated with the data collection. Fault activity along the main length of the fault for each ramp-breaching style is concentrated near the intersection of the linking fault and the outboard portion of the main fault segment. However, fault activity along the outboard fault tip varies according to breaching style. At a footwall breach the entire outboard fault tip appears relatively inactive. At a mid-ramp breach the outboard fault tip remains relatively active because of the proximity of the linking fault to this fault tip.

The transverse musculo-cutaneous gracilis flap for breast reconstruction: How to avoid complications.

PubMed

Bodin, Frédéric; Dissaux, Caroline; Dupret-Bories, Agnes; Schohn, Thomas; Fiquet, Caroline; Bruant-Rodier, Catherine

2016-01-01

The transverse musculocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap has become a common solution for breast reconstruction. However, the safe skin paddle limits are not yet understood. In this study, we attempted to address this issue based on our experiences with inferior and posterior skin paddle extension. Forty-four breast reconstructions with TMG flaps performed between November 2010 and January 2014 were analyzed retrospectively. For the first 20 cases, the flap skin paddle was extended 3 cm posteriorly to the middle thigh (group 1). For the next 20 flaps (group 2), the posterior tip was limited to this line, whereas more fat was recruited inferiorly. In the four cases of group 3, the skin flap was extended posteriorly with a second vascular pedicle from the profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap. The weights and the dimensions of the flaps, operating durations, and postoperative complications of the entire series were analyzed. Groups 1 and 2 were statistically compared. Flap complications were statistically more frequent in group 1 compared with group 2 (45 vs. 0%, P = 0.0012); 40% posterior flap tip necrosis was observed in group 1. Conversely, donor site complications were statistically more frequent in group 2 than in group 1 (40 vs. 5%, P = 0.019) with 35% inner thigh dehiscence. In the TMG with extended PAP flap group, the operating duration was 77 min longer compared with the rest of the series with no donor site complications. In one case, limited necrosis occurred at the anterior skin tip. Harvesting the posterior portion of the TMG up to the middle of the posterior thigh may lead to partial flap necrosis. Extending subcutaneous fat removal under the inferior skin incision may increase the risk of donor site complications. Adding a second vascular pedicle from the PAP flap may improve posterior TMG tip perfusion at the expense of a longer operation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes computation on tip clearance flow in a compressor cascade using an unstructured grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Sangmook

2001-07-01

A three-dimensional unstructured incompressible RANS code has been developed using artificial compressibility and Spalart-Allmaras eddy viscosity model. A node-based finite volume method is used in which all flow variables are defined at the vertices of tetrahedrons in an unstructured grid. The inviscid fluxes are computed by using the Roe's flux difference splitting method, and higher order accuracy is attained by data reconstruction based on Taylor series expansion. Gauss theorem is used to formulate necessary gradients. For time integration, an implicit scheme based on linearized Euler backward method is used. A tetrahedral unstructured grid generation code has been also developed and applied to the tip clearance flow in a highly staggered cascade. Surface grids are first generated in the flow passage and blade tip by using several triangulation methods including Delaunay triangulation, advancing front method and advancing layer method. Then the whole computational domain including tip gap region is filled with prisms using the surface grids. The code has been validated by comparisons with available computational and experimental results for several test cases: inviscid flow around NACA section, laminar and turbulent flow over a flat plate, turbulent flow through double-circular arc cascade and laminar flow through a square duct with 90° bend. Finally the code is applied to a linear cascade that has GE rotor B section with tip clearance and a high stagger angle of 56.9°. The overall structure of the tip clearance flow is well predicted. Loss of loading due to tip leakage flow and reloading due to tip leakage vortex are presented. On the end wall, separation line of the tip leakage vortex and reattachment line of passage vortex are identified. Prediction of such an interaction presents a challenge to RANS computations. The effects of blade span on the flow structure have been also investigated. Two cascades with blades of aspect ratios of 0.5 and 1.0 are considered. By comparing pressure distributions on the blade, it is shown that the aspect ratio has strong effects on loading distribution on the blade although the tip gap height is very small (0.016 chord). Grid convergence study has been carried out with three different grids for pressure distributions and limiting streamlines on the end wall. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING PROTOCOLS FOR ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS USING ESTUARINE CRUSTACEANS

EPA Science Inventory

The objective of this research is to develop in vivo screening protocols for endocrine disruption in marine crustaceans, invertebrates of ecological and economic importance. A series of comparative developmental and reproductive studies were performed on several species of estuar...

Nanoindentation cannot accurately predict the tensile strength of graphene or other 2D materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Jihoon; Pugno, Nicola M.; Ryu, Seunghwa

2015-09-01

Due to the difficulty of performing uniaxial tensile testing, the strengths of graphene and its grain boundaries have been measured in experiments by nanoindentation testing. From a series of molecular dynamics simulations, we find that the strength measured in uniaxial simulation and the strength estimated from the nanoindentation fracture force can differ significantly. Fracture in tensile loading occurs simultaneously with the onset of crack nucleation near 5-7 defects, while the graphene sheets often sustain the indentation loads after the crack initiation because the sharply concentrated stress near the tip does not give rise to enough driving force for further crack propagation. Due to the concentrated stress, strength estimation is sensitive to the indenter tip position along the grain boundaries. Also, it approaches the strength of pristine graphene if the tip is located slightly away from the grain boundary line. Our findings reveal the limitations of nanoindentation testing in quantifying the strength of graphene, and show that the loading-mode-specific failure mechanism must be taken into account in designing reliable devices from graphene and other technologically important 2D materials.Due to the difficulty of performing uniaxial tensile testing, the strengths of graphene and its grain boundaries have been measured in experiments by nanoindentation testing. From a series of molecular dynamics simulations, we find that the strength measured in uniaxial simulation and the strength estimated from the nanoindentation fracture force can differ significantly. Fracture in tensile loading occurs simultaneously with the onset of crack nucleation near 5-7 defects, while the graphene sheets often sustain the indentation loads after the crack initiation because the sharply concentrated stress near the tip does not give rise to enough driving force for further crack propagation. Due to the concentrated stress, strength estimation is sensitive to the indenter tip position along the grain boundaries. Also, it approaches the strength of pristine graphene if the tip is located slightly away from the grain boundary line. Our findings reveal the limitations of nanoindentation testing in quantifying the strength of graphene, and show that the loading-mode-specific failure mechanism must be taken into account in designing reliable devices from graphene and other technologically important 2D materials. Electronic ESI (ESI) available: Modelling of polycrystalline graphene, verification of loading speed, biaxial tensile simulations, comparison of stress distribution, size effects of indenter radius, force-deflection curves, and stability analysis of crack propagation. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04134a

A Model for Growth of a Single Fungal Hypha Based on Well-Mixed Tanks in Series: Simulation of Nutrient and Vesicle Transport in Aerial Reproductive Hyphae

PubMed Central

Balmant, Wellington; Sugai-Guérios, Maura Harumi; Coradin, Juliana Hey; Krieger, Nadia; Furigo Junior, Agenor; Mitchell, David Alexander

2015-01-01

Current models that describe the extension of fungal hyphae and development of a mycelium either do not describe the role of vesicles in hyphal extension or do not correctly describe the experimentally observed profile for distribution of vesicles along the hypha. The present work uses the n-tanks-in-series approach to develop a model for hyphal extension that describes the intracellular transport of nutrient to a sub-apical zone where vesicles are formed and then transported to the tip, where tip extension occurs. The model was calibrated using experimental data from the literature for the extension of reproductive aerial hyphae of three different fungi, and was able to describe different profiles involving acceleration and deceleration of the extension rate. A sensitivity analysis showed that the supply of nutrient to the sub-apical vesicle-producing zone is a key factor influencing the rate of extension of the hypha. Although this model was used to describe the extension of a single reproductive aerial hypha, the use of the n-tanks-in-series approach to representing the hypha means that the model has the flexibility to be extended to describe the growth of other types of hyphae and the branching of hyphae to form a complete mycelium. PMID:25785863

Study and Sub-System Optimization of Propulsion and Drive Systems for the Large Civil TiltRotor (LCTR2) Rotorcraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robuck, Mark; Wilkerson, Joseph; Snyder, Christopher A.; Zhang, Yiyi; Maciolek, Bob

2013-01-01

In a series of study tasks conducted as a part of NASA's Fundamental Aeronautics Program, Rotary Wing Project, Boeing and Rolls-Royce explored propulsion, drive, and rotor system options for the NASA Large Civil Tilt Rotor (LCTR2) concept vehicle. The original objective of this study was to identify engine and drive system configurations to reduce rotor tip speed during cruise conditions and quantify the associated benefits. Previous NASA studies concluded that reducing rotor speed (from 650 fps hover tip speed) during cruise would reduce vehicle gross weight and fuel burn. Initially, rotor cruise speed ratios of 54% of the hover tip speed were of most interest during operation at cruise air speed of 310 ktas. Interim results were previously reported1 for cruise tip speed ratios of 100%, 77%, and 54% of the hover tip speed using engine and/or gearbox features to achieve the reduction. Technology levels from commercial off-the-shelf (COTS), through entry-in-service (EIS) dates of 2025 and 2035 were considered to assess the benefits of advanced technology on vehicle gross weight and fuel burn. This technical paper presents the final study results in terms of vehicle sizing and fuel burn as well as Operational and Support (O&S) costs. New vehicle sizing at rotor tip speed reduced to 65% of hover is presented for engine performance with an EIS 2035 fixed geometry variable speed power turbine. LCTR2 is also evaluated for missions range cases of 400, 600, 800, 1000, and 1200 nautical miles and cruise air speeds of 310, 350 and 375 ktas.

Scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of a maxillectomy defect: A minimally invasive transaxillary approach.

PubMed

Park, Sung Joon; Jeong, Woo-Jin; Ahn, Soon-Hyun

2017-11-01

The purpose of this study was to propose a novel, minimally invasive transaxillary approach for harvesting the scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of a maxillectomy defect. A retrospective case series study of 4 patients who underwent reconstruction using a scapular tip composite free flap through the transaxillary approach was conducted. The data (age, sex, pathology, previous treatment and adjuvant treatment) were collected and analysed. Total operation time, number of hospital days and the cosmetic and functional outcome of reconstruction were analysed. Two male and two female patients were enrolled in this study. The patients' ages ranged from 52 to 59 years. All the patients had maxillectomy defects, with at least a classification of Okay type II, which were successfully reconstructed using a scapular tip and latissimus dorsi free flap through a minimally invasive transaxillary approach. The entire operation time for the primary tumour surgery and reconstruction ranged from 6.2 to 12.1 h (mean, 11.1 h). The average length of the hospital stay was 13 days (range, 10-16 days). No major donor site morbidity was observed, and there was no graft failure that required revision or exploration surgery. The minimally invasive transaxillary approach for harvesting the scapular tip and latissimus dorsi osteomyogenous free flap for the reconstruction of maxillectomy defect is a promising approach for more favourable functional and aesthetic outcomes when compared to the use of other bone containing free flaps and the classic approach for harvesting scapular tip and latissimus dorsi free flap. Copyright © 2017 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of effectiveness of Er,Cr:YSGG laser for root canal disinfection: theoretical simulation of temperature elevations in root dentin.

PubMed

Zhu, L; Tolba, M; Arola, D; Salloum, M; Meza, F

2009-07-01

Erbium, chromium: yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) lasers are currently being investigated for disinfecting the root canal system. Prior to using laser therapy, it is important to understand the temperature distribution and to assess thermal damage to the surrounding tissue. In this study, a theoretical simulation using the Pennes bioheat equation is conducted to evaluate how heat spreads from the canal surface using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Results of the investigation show that some of the proposed treatment protocols for killing bacteria in the deep dentin are ineffective, even for long heating durations. Based on the simulation, an alternative treatment protocol is identified that has improved effectiveness and is less likely to introduce collateral damage to the surrounding tissue. The alternative protocol uses 350 mW laser power with repeating laser tip movement to achieve bacterial disinfection in the deep dentin (800 microm lateral from the canal surface), while avoiding thermal damage to the surrounding tissue (T<47 degrees C). The alternative treatment protocol has the potential to not only achieve bacterial disinfection of deep dentin but also shorten the treatment time, thereby minimizing potential patient discomfort during laser procedures.

Fan Noise Source Diagnostic Test: LDV Measured Flow Field Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Podboy, Gary C.; Krupar, Martin J.; Hughes, Christopher E.; Woodward, Richard P.

2003-01-01

Results are presented of an experiment conducted to investigate potential sources of noise in the flow developed by two 22-in. diameter turbofan models. The R4 and M5 rotors that were tested were designed to operate at nominal take-off speeds of 12,657 and 14,064 RPMC, respectively. Both fans were tested with a common set of swept stators installed downstream of the rotors. Detailed measurements of the flows generated by the two were made using a laser Doppler velocimeter system. The wake flows generated by the two rotors are illustrated through a series of contour plots. These show that the two wake flows are quite different, especially in the tip region. These data are used to explain some of the differences in the rotor/stator interaction noise generated by the two fan stages. In addition to these wake data, measurements were also made in the R4 rotor blade passages. These results illustrate the tip flow development within the blade passages, its migration downstream, and (at high rotor speeds) its merging with the blade wake of the adjacent (following) blade. Data also depict the variation of this tip flow with tip clearance. Data obtained within the rotor blade passages at high rotational speeds illustrate the variation of the mean shock position across the different blade passages.

The fiber walk: a model of tip-driven growth with lateral expansion.

PubMed

Bucksch, Alexander; Turk, Greg; Weitz, Joshua S

2014-01-01

Tip-driven growth processes underlie the development of many plants. To date, tip-driven growth processes have been modeled as an elongating path or series of segments, without taking into account lateral expansion during elongation. Instead, models of growth often introduce an explicit thickness by expanding the area around the completed elongated path. Modeling expansion in this way can lead to contradictions in the physical plausibility of the resulting surface and to uncertainty about how the object reached certain regions of space. Here, we introduce fiber walks as a self-avoiding random walk model for tip-driven growth processes that includes lateral expansion. In 2D, the fiber walk takes place on a square lattice and the space occupied by the fiber is modeled as a lateral contraction of the lattice. This contraction influences the possible subsequent steps of the fiber walk. The boundary of the area consumed by the contraction is derived as the dual of the lattice faces adjacent to the fiber. We show that fiber walks generate fibers that have well-defined curvatures, and thus enable the identification of the process underlying the occupancy of physical space. Hence, fiber walks provide a base from which to model both the extension and expansion of physical biological objects with finite thickness.

Modeling of Current-Voltage Characteristics in Large Metal-Semiconducting Carbon Nanotube Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamada, Toshishige; Biegel, Bryon A. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

A model is proposed for two observed current-voltage (I-V) patterns in recent experiment with a scanning tunneling microscope tip and a carbon nanotube [Collins et al., Science 278, 100 (1997)]. We claim that there are two contact modes for a tip (metal)-nanotube (semiconductor) junction depending whether the alignment of the metal and the semiconductor band structures is (1) variable (vacuum-gap) or (2) fixed (touching) with V. With the tip grounded, the tunneling case in (1) would produce large dI/dV with V > 0, small dI/dV with V < 0, and I = 0 near V = 0 for an either n- or p-nanotube. However, the Schottky mechanism in (2) would result in forward current with V < 0 for an n-nanotube, while with V > 0 for an p-nanotube. The two observed I-V patterns are thus entirely explained by a tip-nanotube contact of the two types, where the nanotube must be n-type. We apply this model to the source-drain I-V characteristics in a long nanotube-channel field-effect-transistor with metallic electrodes at low temperature [Zhou et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 76, 1597 (2000)], and show that two independent metal-semiconductor junctions in series are responsible for the observed behavior.

Fundamental Study of a Single Point Lean Direct Injector. Part I: Effect of Air Swirler Angle and Injector Tip Location on Spray Characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tedder, Sarah A.; Hicks, Yolanda R.; Tacina, Kathleen M.; Anderson, Robert C.

2014-01-01

Lean direct injection (LDI) is a combustion concept to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) for next generation aircraft gas turbine engines. These newer engines have cycles that increase fuel efficiency through increased operating pressures, which increase combustor inlet temperatures. NOx formation rates increase with higher temperatures; the LDI strategy avoids high temperature by staying fuel lean and away from stoichiometric burning. Thus, LDI relies on rapid and uniform fuel/air mixing. To understand this mixing process, a series of fundamental experiments are underway in the Combustion and Dynamics Facility at NASA Glenn Research Center. This first set of experiments examines cold flow (non-combusting) mixing using air and water. Using laser diagnostics, the effects of air swirler angle and injector tip location on the spray distribution, recirculation zone, and droplet size distribution are examined. Of the three swirler angles examined, 60 deg is determined to have the most even spray distribution. The injector tip location primarily shifts the flow without changing the structure, unless the flow includes a recirculation zone. When a recirculation zone is present, minimum axial velocity decreases as the injector tip moves downstream towards the venturi exit; also the droplets become more uniform in size and angular distribution.

Mechanical Model of Dexterous Continuum Manipulators with Compliant Joints and Tendon/External Force Interactions

PubMed Central

Murphy, Ryan J.; Liu, Hao; Iordachita, Iulian I.; Armand, Mehran

2017-01-01

Dexterous continuum manipulators (DCMs) have been widely adopted for minimally- and less-invasive surgery. During the operation, these DCMs interact with surrounding anatomy actively or passively. The interaction force will inevitably affect the tip position and shape of DCMs, leading to potentially inaccurate control near critical anatomy. In this paper, we demonstrated a 2D mechanical model for a tendon actuated, notched DCM with compliant joints. The model predicted deformation of the DCM accurately in the presence of tendon force, friction force, and external force. A partition approach was proposed to describe the DCM as a series of interconnected rigid and flexible links. Beam mechanics, taking into consideration tendon interaction and external force on the tip and the body, was applied to obtain the deformation of each flexible link of the DCM. The model results were compared with experiments for free bending as well as bending in the presence of external forces acting at either the tip or body of the DCM. The overall mean error of tip position between model predictions and all of the experimental results was 0.62±0.41mm. The results suggest that the proposed model can effectively predict the shape of the DCM. PMID:28989273

The Fiber Walk: A Model of Tip-Driven Growth with Lateral Expansion

PubMed Central

Bucksch, Alexander; Turk, Greg; Weitz, Joshua S.

2014-01-01

Tip-driven growth processes underlie the development of many plants. To date, tip-driven growth processes have been modeled as an elongating path or series of segments, without taking into account lateral expansion during elongation. Instead, models of growth often introduce an explicit thickness by expanding the area around the completed elongated path. Modeling expansion in this way can lead to contradictions in the physical plausibility of the resulting surface and to uncertainty about how the object reached certain regions of space. Here, we introduce fiber walks as a self-avoiding random walk model for tip-driven growth processes that includes lateral expansion. In 2D, the fiber walk takes place on a square lattice and the space occupied by the fiber is modeled as a lateral contraction of the lattice. This contraction influences the possible subsequent steps of the fiber walk. The boundary of the area consumed by the contraction is derived as the dual of the lattice faces adjacent to the fiber. We show that fiber walks generate fibers that have well-defined curvatures, and thus enable the identification of the process underlying the occupancy of physical space. Hence, fiber walks provide a base from which to model both the extension and expansion of physical biological objects with finite thickness. PMID:24465607

Improving needle tip identification during ultrasound-guided procedures in anaesthetic practice.

PubMed

Scholten, H J; Pourtaherian, A; Mihajlovic, N; Korsten, H H M; A Bouwman, R

2017-07-01

Ultrasound guidance is becoming standard practice for needle-based interventions in anaesthetic practice, such as vascular access and peripheral nerve blocks. However, difficulties in aligning the needle and the transducer can lead to incorrect identification of the needle tip, possibly damaging structures not visible on the ultrasound screen. Additional techniques specifically developed to aid alignment of needle and probe or identification of the needle tip are now available. In this scoping review, advantages and limitations of the following categories of those solutions are presented: needle guides; alterations to needle or needle tip; three- and four-dimensional ultrasound; magnetism, electromagnetic or GPS systems; optical tracking; augmented (virtual) reality; robotic assistance; and automated (computerised) needle detection. Most evidence originates from phantom studies, case reports and series, with few randomised clinical trials. Improved first-pass success and reduced performance time are the most frequently cited benefits, whereas the need for additional and often expensive hardware is the greatest limitation to widespread adoption. Novice ultrasound users seem to benefit most and great potential lies in education. Future research should focus on reporting relevant clinical parameters to learn which technique will benefit patients most in terms of success and safety. © 2017 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

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

Mohamad, Khairul Anuar; Rusnan, Fara Naila; Seria, Dzulfahmi Mohd Husin

Investigation on the physical characterization and comparison of organic thin film based on a soluble 6,13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl) (TIPS) pentacene is reported. Oriented thin-films of pentacene have been successfully deposited by flow-coating method, in which the chloroform solution is sandwiched between a transparent substrate and a slide glass, followed by slow-drawing of the substrate with respect to the slide glass. Molecular orientation of flow-coated TIPS-pentacene is comparable to that of the thermal-evaporated pentacene thin film by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) results. XRD results showed that the morphology of flow-coated soluble pentacene is similar to that of the thermal-evaporated pentacene thin films inmore » series of (00l) diffraction peaks where the (001) diffraction peaks are strongest in the nominally out-of-plane intensity and interplanar spacing located at approximately 2θ = 5.33° (d-spacing, d{sub 001} = 16 Å). Following that, ITO/p-TIPS-pentacene/n-ZnO/Au vertical diode was fabricated. The diode exhibited almost linear characteristics at low voltage with nonlinear characteristics at higher voltage which similar to a pn junction behavior. The results indicated that the TIPS-pentacene semiconductor active thin films can be used as a hole injection layer for fabrication of a vertical organic transistor.« less

Fundamental Study of a Single Point Lean Direct Injector. Part I: Effect of Air Swirler Angle and Injector Tip Location on Spray Characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tedder, Sarah A.; Hicks, Yolanda R.; Tacina, Kathleen M.; Anderson, Robert C.

2015-01-01

Lean direct injection (LDI) is a combustion concept to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) for next generation aircraft gas turbine engines. These newer engines have cycles that increase fuel efficiency through increased operating pressures, which increase combustor inlet temperatures. NOx formation rates increase with higher temperatures; the LDI strategy avoids high temperature by staying fuel lean and away from stoichiometric burning. Thus, LDI relies on rapid and uniform fuel/air mixing. To understand this mixing process, a series of fundamental experiments are underway in the Combustion and Dynamics Facility at NASA Glenn Research Center. This first set of experiments examines cold flow (non-combusting) mixing using air and water. Using laser diagnostics, the effects of air swirler angle and injector tip location on the spray distribution, recirculation zone, and droplet size distribution are examined. Of the three swirler angles examined, 60 degrees is determined to have the most even spray distribution. The injector tip location primarily shifts the flow without changing the structure, unless the flow includes a recirculation zone. When a recirculation zone is present, minimum axial velocity decreases as the injector tip moves downstream towards the venturi exit; also the droplets become more uniform in size and angular distribution.

Teaching Concepts to Young Children Through Cultural Cooking Experiences. Bilingual/Bicultural Child Development Associate Pilot Project: Module XIV.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Teresa R.

This Child Development Associate (CDA) module, the fourteenth in a series of 16, suggests ways concepts can be taught by involving preschool children in carefully planned classroom cooking activities. Designed for bilingual/bicultural preschool teacher trainees, the module provides tips on food preparation as a learning experience. Required…

Super Searchers Go to School: Sharing Online Strategies with K-12 Students, Teachers, and Librarians

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valenza, Joyce Kasman

2005-01-01

Twelve prominent K-12 educators and educator librarians share their techniques and tips for helping students become effective, life-long information users. Through a series of skillful interviews, Joyce Kasman Valenza--techlife@school columnist for the "Philadelphia Inquirer" and herself a tech-savvy high school librarian--gets the experts to…

Critical Care Coding for Neurologists.

PubMed

Nuwer, Marc R; Vespa, Paul M

2015-10-01

Accurate coding is an important function of neurologic practice. This contribution to Continuum is part of an ongoing series that presents helpful coding information along with examples related to the issue topic. Tips for diagnosis coding, Evaluation and Management coding, procedure coding, or a combination are presented, depending on which is most applicable to the subject area of the issue.

Coding of Neuroinfectious Diseases.

PubMed

Barkley, Gregory L

2015-12-01

Accurate coding is an important function of neurologic practice. This contribution to Continuum is part of an ongoing series that presents helpful coding information along with examples related to the issue topic. Tips for diagnosis coding, Evaluation and Management coding, procedure coding, or a combination are presented, depending on which is most applicable to the subject area of the issue.

Diagnostic Coding for Epilepsy.

PubMed

Williams, Korwyn; Nuwer, Marc R; Buchhalter, Jeffrey R

2016-02-01

Accurate coding is an important function of neurologic practice. This contribution to Continuum is part of an ongoing series that presents helpful coding information along with examples related to the issue topic. Tips for diagnosis coding, Evaluation and Management coding, procedure coding, or a combination are presented, depending on which is most applicable to the subject area of the issue.

Using rainfall simulators to test wood shreddings for erosion control

Treesearch

James Gronier; Randy Foltz; Charlie Showers

2005-01-01

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service is considering alternative methods of erosion control when constructing roads, decommissioning roads, protecting lands burned by wildland fires, and reclaiming lands disturbed by other activities. This article is the second in a series of tech tips that discuss the use of wood shreddings for erosion control. The first...

How to design an outstanding poster.

PubMed

Gemayel, Rita

2018-04-01

Poster sessions are an important forum for getting feedback on your results and engaging with the scientific community. In this instalment of the Words of Advice series, we provide you with a guide to designing an outstanding poster and offer tips on how to effectively communicate your results using your poster. © 2018 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

The Texas Real Estate Licensee 1984: A Profile. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 13, Spring 1987.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the characteristics of Texas real estate licensees based on a 1984 state survey which focused on the demographic, educational, business, career, income, and job specialization characteristics of a…

A Profile of 1984 Homebuyers. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP-2A, Spring 1987.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the characteristics of Texas homebuyers. First, a summary profile of homebuyers is presented, indicating that: (1) the typical 1984 Texas homebuyer was married, was between 25 and 34 years old,…

The Internet Resource Directory for K-12 Teachers and Librarians. 97/98 Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Elizabeth B.

This directory is the fourth in an annual series of Internet guides for educators, librarians, and school administrators, and provides tips on access to, as well as addresses for, online resources that support and enrich the K-12 curriculum and supplement the school library core collection. Sites that help educators develop professionally are also…

Tips on Finding and Getting a Job...Searching for, Writing a Resume, and Interviewing. ICPAC Information Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Indiana Career and Postsecondary Advancement Center, Bloomington.

This packet documents suggestions for conducting a job search, writing a resume, and interviewing. Suggestions for a job search include the following: knowing one's skills, knowing what one is looking for, and knowing where to look for jobs, including newspaper advertisements, employment centers, employment firms, networking, and blind attempts.…

Next Generation Sequence Assembly with AMOS

PubMed Central

Treangen, Todd J; Sommer, Dan D; Angly, Florent E; Koren, Sergey; Pop, Mihai

2011-01-01

A Modular Open-Source Assembler (AMOS) was designed to offer a modular approach to genome assembly. AMOS includes a wide range of tools for assembly, including lightweight de novo assemblers Minimus and Minimo, and Bambus 2, a robust scaffolder able to handle metagenomic and polymorphic data. This protocol describes how to configure and use AMOS for the assembly of Next Generation sequence data. Additionally, we provide three tutorial examples that include bacterial, viral, and metagenomic datasets with specific tips for improving assembly quality. PMID:21400694

Collaborative writing: Tools and tips.

PubMed

Eapen, Bell Raj

2007-01-01

Majority of technical writing is done by groups of experts and various web based applications have made this collaboration easy. Email exchange of word processor documents with tracked changes used to be the standard technique for collaborative writing. However web based tools like Google docs and Spreadsheets have made the process fast and efficient. Various versioning tools and synchronous editors are available for those who need additional functionality. Having a group leader who decides the scheduling, communication and conflict resolving protocols is important for successful collaboration.

U.S.-Russian Cooperation in Science and Technology: A Case Study of the TOPAZ Space-Based Nuclear Reactor International Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dabrowski, Richard S.

2014-08-01

The TOPAZ International Program (TIP) was the final name given to a series of projects to purchase and test the TOPAZ-II, a space-based nuclear reactor of a type that had been further developed in the Soviet Union than in the United States. In the changing political situation associated with the break-up of the Soviet Union it became possible for the United States to not just purchase the system, but also to employ Russian scientists, engineers and testing facilities to verify its reliability. The lessons learned from the TIP illuminate some of the institutional and cultural challenges to U.S. - Russian cooperation in technology research which remain true today.

Negative differential conductance in InAs wire based double quantum dot induced by a charged AFM tip

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

Zhukov, A. A., E-mail: azhukov@issp.ac.ru; Volk, Ch.; Winden, A.

We investigate the conductance of an InAs nanowire in the nonlinear regime in the case of low electron density where the wire is split into quantum dots connected in series. The negative differential conductance in the wire is initiated by means of a charged atomic force microscope tip adjusting the transparency of the tunneling barrier between two adjoining quantum dots. We confirm that the negative differential conductance arises due to the resonant tunneling between these two adjoining quantum dots. The influence of the transparency of the blocking barriers and the relative position of energy states in the adjoining dots onmore » a decrease of the negative differential conductance is investigated in detail.« less

Diagnostics of cathode material loss in cutting plasma torch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruber, J.; Šonský, J.; Hlína, J.

2014-07-01

A cutting plasma torch was observed in several ways by a high-speed camera with a focus on the cathode area. In the first experiment, the plasma arc between the nozzle tip and anode was recorded in a series of duty cycles ranging from new unworn cathodes to cathode failure due to wear and material loss. In the second experiment, we used a specially modified nozzle to observe the inside area between the cathode and the nozzle exit through a fused silica window. Finally, using tilted view, we observed a pool of molten hafnium at the cathode tip during the plasma torch operation. The process of cathode material melting, droplet formation, their expulsion and rate of cathode material loss was examined.

A New Method for Determining Hamaker Constants of Solids Based on the Dynamic Approach Behavior of an Atomic Force Microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fronczak, Sean G.

The Hamaker constant, A, is a quantitative measure of the fundamental attractive van der Waals (vdW) interaction for microscale and nanoscale materials. This parameter captures each material's compositional effects on the vdW force, which is often needed as input for predicting the vdW interactions between particles and surfaces. Experimental attempts to determine A using an atomic force microscope (AFM) are typically hindered by issues inherent to the cantilever-tip-surface contact regime, such as surface roughness and deformation, and contact separation distance. Thus, we developed a new method for estimating Hamaker constants from the non-contact approach regime of an AFM experiment (Fronczak et al., 2017, Langmuir 33, 714-725). This method invokes a quasi-dynamic description of the cantilever tip's approach to contact, in which the inertial effects of the tip motion are accounted for when analyzing the trajectory of the tip's approach towards the substrate. The method was tested experimentally using silica, alumina and polystyrene substrates, and was demonstrated to yield estimates of A for these materials that were in very good agreement with previously published Lifshitz calculations. As with various other approaches to determining A, our new method relies heavily on the accuracy of the geometric model used to predict the interaction between the AFM tip and the substrate. For the initial validation experiments of our new method, we therefore focused on describing the shape of the cantilever tip as closely as possible, utilizing a complex model of a truncated pyramid with a spherical cap. Although this pyramidal geometry can be confirmed and the dimensions estimated via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), even high-resolution SEM images of the tip cannot provide sufficient detail to allow precise enough determination of the tip's geometric parameters. Consequently, we also propose an adaptation of the method, in which these difficult to quantify geometric effects are still fully captured via the convenient description of the tip as an 'effective' perfect sphere. Hence, the geometric complexity of the cantilever tip is no longer explicitly required for the determination of A. First, a tip is 'calibrated', whereby the deflection at first contact between the cantilever tip and a smooth surface of known vdW properties is determined and an effective radius, Reff, of the tip is calculated. The tip's approach to contact toward other similarly smooth surfaces can then be well-described by using only this single geometric parameter. We demonstrate the practicality and accuracy of this updated method by comparing the results with both the original pyramid model and Lifshitz approximations (when available) for flat substrates composed of silica, polystyrene, highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), sapphire (alpha-Al3O2), Plexiglas (PMMA), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Then, the modified quasi-dynamic model was employed to study the strength of the adhesive interaction between TNT and several swab materials which are used as explosive detection devices at security checkpoints. This information is crucial for the development and improvement of next-generation swab detection protocols to further advance this field. Finally, we also include the effects of thermal noise into our quasi-dynamic description of the cantilever motion to better understand how such noise might influence the accuracy of our method. We likewise determine, for the first time, the effects of instrument noise on the accuracy of other approach-to-contact methodologies for determining A.

TH-C-18A-08: A Management Tool for CT Dose Monitoring, Analysis, and Protocol Review

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

Wang, J; Chan, F; Newman, B

2014-06-15

Purpose: To develop a customizable tool for enterprise-wide managing of CT protocols and analyzing radiation dose information of CT exams for a variety of quality control applications Methods: All clinical CT protocols implemented on the 11 CT scanners at our institution were extracted in digital format. The original protocols had been preset by our CT management team. A commercial CT dose tracking software (DoseWatch,GE healthcare,WI) was used to collect exam information (exam date, patient age etc.), scanning parameters, and radiation doses for all CT exams. We developed a Matlab-based program (MathWorks,MA) with graphic user interface which allows to analyze themore » scanning protocols with the actual dose estimates, and compare the data to national (ACR,AAPM) and internal reference values for CT quality control. Results: The CT protocol review portion of our tool allows the user to look up the scanning and image reconstruction parameters of any protocol on any of the installed CT systems among about 120 protocols per scanner. In the dose analysis tool, dose information of all CT exams (from 05/2013 to 02/2014) was stratified on a protocol level, and within a protocol down to series level, i.e. each individual exposure event. This allows numerical and graphical review of dose information of any combination of scanner models, protocols and series. The key functions of the tool include: statistics of CTDI, DLP and SSDE, dose monitoring using user-set CTDI/DLP/SSDE thresholds, look-up of any CT exam dose data, and CT protocol review. Conclusion: our inhouse CT management tool provides radiologists, technologists and administration a first-hand near real-time enterprise-wide knowledge on CT dose levels of different exam types. Medical physicists use this tool to manage CT protocols, compare and optimize dose levels across different scanner models. It provides technologists feedback on CT scanning operation, and knowledge on important dose baselines and thresholds.« less

Security of the arbitrated quantum signature protocols revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kejia, Zhang; Dan, Li; Qi, Su

2014-01-01

Recently, much attention has been paid to the study of arbitrated quantum signature (AQS). Among these studies, the cryptanalysis of some AQS protocols and a series of improved ideas have been proposed. Compared with the previous analysis, we present a security criterion, which can judge whether an AQS protocol is able to prevent the receiver (i.e. one participant in the signature protocol) from forging a legal signature. According to our results, it can be seen that most AQS protocols which are based on the Zeng and Keitel (ZK) model are susceptible to a forgery attack. Furthermore, we present an improved idea of the ZK protocol. Finally, some supplement discussions and several interesting topics are provided.

Predicting critical transitions in dynamical systems from time series using nonstationary probability density modeling.

PubMed

Kwasniok, Frank

2013-11-01

A time series analysis method for predicting the probability density of a dynamical system is proposed. A nonstationary parametric model of the probability density is estimated from data within a maximum likelihood framework and then extrapolated to forecast the future probability density and explore the system for critical transitions or tipping points. A full systematic account of parameter uncertainty is taken. The technique is generic, independent of the underlying dynamics of the system. The method is verified on simulated data and then applied to prediction of Arctic sea-ice extent.

Altered Mental Status: Current Evidence-based Recommendations for Prehospital Care.

PubMed

Sanello, Ashley; Gausche-Hill, Marianne; Mulkerin, William; Sporer, Karl A; Brown, John F; Koenig, Kristi L; Rudnick, Eric M; Salvucci, Angelo A; Gilbert, Gregory H

2018-05-01

In the United States emergency medical services (EMS) protocols vary widely across jurisdictions. We sought to develop evidence-based recommendations for the prehospital evaluation and treatment of a patient with an acute change in mental status and to compare these recommendations against the current protocols used by the 33 EMS agencies in the State of California. We performed a literature review of the current evidence in the prehospital treatment of a patient with altered mental status (AMS) and augmented this review with guidelines from various national and international societies to create our evidence-based recommendations. We then compared the AMS protocols of each of the 33 EMS agencies for consistency with these recommendations. The specific protocol components that we analyzed were patient assessment, point-of-care tests, supplemental oxygen, use of standardized scoring, evaluating for causes of AMS, blood glucose evaluation, toxicological treatment, and pediatric evaluation and management. Protocols across 33 EMS agencies in California varied widely. All protocols call for a blood glucose check, 21 (64%) suggest treating adults at <60mg/dL, and half allow for the use of dextrose 10%. All the protocols recommend naloxone for signs of opioid overdose, but only 13 (39%) give specific parameters. Half the agencies (52%) recommend considering other toxicological causes of AMS, often by using the mnemonic AEIOU TIPS. Eight (24%) recommend a 12-lead electrocardiogram; others simply suggest cardiac monitoring. Fourteen (42%) advise supplemental oxygen as needed; only seven (21%) give specific parameters. In terms of considering various etiologies of AMS, 25 (76%) give instructions to consider trauma, 20 (61%) to consider stroke, and 18 (55%) to consider seizure. Twenty-three (70%) of the agencies have separate pediatric AMS protocols; others include pediatric considerations within the adult protocol. Protocols for patients with AMS vary widely across the State of California. The evidence-based recommendations that we present for the prehospital diagnosis and treatment of this condition may be useful for EMS medical directors tasked with creating and revising these protocols.

Physical therapy clinic therapeutic ultrasound equipment as a source for bacterial contamination.

PubMed

Spratt, Henry G; Levine, David; Tillman, Larry

2014-10-01

A procedure commonly used in physical therapy (PT) clinics is therapeutic ultrasound (US). This equipment and associated gel comes in contact with patient skin, potentially serving as a reservoir for bacteria. In this study, we sampled US heads, gel bottle tips and gel from nine outpatient PT clinics in Southeastern Tennessee. Samples were collected using sterile swabs. At the microbiology laboratory, these swabs were used to inoculate mannitol salt agar and CHROM-MRSA agar (for Staphylococcal species) and tryptic soy broth to determine non-specific bacterial contamination. US heads, gel bottle tips and gel had variable levels of contamination. Tips of gel bottles had the highest contamination, with 52.7% positive for non-specific bacterial contamination and 3.6% positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Contamination of gel by non-specific bacteria was found in 14.5% of bottles sampled. US heads (35.5% of those sampled) had non-specific bacterial contamination, with no MRSA detected. Disinfecting US heads after initial swabbing resulted in removal of 90.9% of non-specific contamination. Gel storage at temperatures below 40 °C was found to encourage the growth of mesophilic bacteria. This study demonstrates the need for better cleaning and storage protocols for US heads and gel bottles in PT clinics.

Shortened acquisition protocols for the quantitative assessment of the 2-tissue-compartment model using dynamic PET/CT 18F-FDG studies.

PubMed

Strauss, Ludwig G; Pan, Leyun; Cheng, Caixia; Haberkorn, Uwe; Dimitrakopoulou-Strauss, Antonia

2011-03-01

(18)F-FDG kinetics are quantified by a 2-tissue-compartment model. The routine use of dynamic PET is limited because of this modality's 1-h acquisition time. We evaluated shortened acquisition protocols up to 0-30 min regarding the accuracy for data analysis with the 2-tissue-compartment model. Full dynamic series for 0-60 min were analyzed using a 2-tissue-compartment model. The time-activity curves and the resulting parameters for the model were stored in a database. Shortened acquisition data were generated from the database using the following time intervals: 0-10, 0-16, 0-20, 0-25, and 0-30 min. Furthermore, the impact of adding a 60-min uptake value to the dynamic series was evaluated. The datasets were analyzed using dedicated software to predict the results of the full dynamic series. The software is based on a modified support vector machines (SVM) algorithm and predicts the compartment parameters of the full dynamic series. The SVM-based software provides user-independent results and was accurate at predicting the compartment parameters of the full dynamic series. If a squared correlation coefficient of 0.8 (corresponding to 80% explained variance of the data) was used as a limit, a shortened acquisition of 0-16 min was accurate at predicting the 60-min 2-tissue-compartment parameters. If a limit of 0.9 (90% explained variance) was used, a dynamic series of at least 0-20 min together with the 60-min uptake values is required. Shortened acquisition protocols can be used to predict the parameters of the 2-tissue-compartment model. Either a dynamic PET series of 0-16 min or a combination of a dynamic PET/CT series of 0-20 min and a 60-min uptake value is accurate for analysis with a 2-tissue-compartment model.

A simple graphene-based pipette tip solid-phase extraction of malondialdehyde from human plasma and its determination by spectrofluorometry.

PubMed

Kaykhaii, Massoud; Yahyavi, Hossain; Hashemi, Mohammad; Khoshroo, Mohammad Reza

2016-07-01

Determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) in human blood plasma is important because of its role as a biomarker of lipid peroxidation in biological and medical sciences. In this work, a miniaturized graphene-based pipette tip solid-phase extraction technique was developed for very efficient extraction of MDA as its dithiobarbituric acid (TBA) adduct from human plasma. Two milligrams of graphene as sorbent were placed into a pipette tip and MDA-TBA compound was extracted and preconcentrated by it, after 4 repeated aspirating/dispensing cycles, then the column was eluted with 80 μL of dimethyl sulfoxide by 4 repeated aspirating/dispensing cycles and elusion was measured spectrofluorimetrically. Various effective parameters such as type and volume of eluent solvent, temperature, sample volume, number of cycles of extraction and desorption, derivatization reaction time, and pH of the sample solution were investigated and optimized. Under optimum conditions, a linear calibration curve was obtained in the range of 0.5-90 μg L(-1) (r (2) = 0.991) with a detection limit of 0.3 μg L(-1). The relative standard deviations for 8 replicate measurements of 10 and 40 μg L(-1) of MDA were found to be 4.51 and 3.78 % respectively. The developed protocol was successfully applied to the determination of MDA in a human blood plasma sample. Graphical Abstract A simple graphene-based pipette tip solid-phase extraction of malondialdehyde from human plasma and its determination by spectrofluorometry.

Elimination of PPV and PNRSV through thermotherapy and meristem-tip culture in nectarine.

PubMed

Manganaris, G A; Economou, A S; Boubourakas, I N; Katis, N I

2003-10-01

The plum pox virus (PPV) and prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) cause serious disease problems in stone-fruit trees. In this work, the possibility of obtaining plant material free from these viruses through thermotherapy and meristem-tip culture from infected nectarine shoots (Prunus persica var. nectarina Max, cv. 'Arm King') was studied. In addition, the detection of these viruses in in vitro cultures and young acclimatized plantlets with double antibody sandwich-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) and multiplex reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was studied. Meristem-tip explants (0.8-1.3 mm) derived from sprouted buds of winter wood and spring shoots from field grown plants had a 2-5% regeneration response. However, application of thermotherapy to potted nectarine trees (3 weeks at a maximum temperature of 35 degrees C) facilitated excision of longer meristem tips (1.3-2.0 mm) that resulted in a significantly higher regeneration response (38%) in woody plant medium (WPM) without plant growth regulators. Such explants formed multiple shoots with the addition of 8 microM benzylaminopurine and 0.8 microM indoleacetic acid. When they were tested for the presence of PPV and PNRSV, 86% and 81% were found to be virus-free as detected by DAS-ELISA and multiplex RT-PCR, respectively. Individual shoots excised from virus-free cultures readily rooted in vitro (half-strength WPM plus 2 microM indolebutyric acid) and grew to plantlets. The combination of an efficient protocol for virus elimination and the establishment of highly sensitive diagnostics resulted in the production of nectarine plants free from PPV and PNRSV.

Y stenting assisted coiling using a new low profile visible intraluminal support device for wide necked basilar tip aneurysms: a technical report.

PubMed

Conrad, Marcelo D; Brasiliense, Leonardo B C; Richie, Alexa N; Hanel, Ricardo A

2014-05-01

Many endovascular techniques have been described in recent years for the management of wide necked aneurysms. The Y stent assisted technique has been generally used for coil embolization of wide necked bifurcation aneurysms. This technique was first described for the treatment of basilar tip aneurysms in combination with several different devices, demonstrating encouraging results. We report the results of the first two cases of wide necked basilar tip aneurysms treated with Y stent assisted coil embolization using a new low profile visible intraluminal stent (LVIS Jr; MicroVention, Tustin, California, USA) delivered through a 0.017 inch microcatheter. We also reviewed the literature comparing other endovascular techniques (coiling alone, stent assisted coiling, and Y stent assisted coiling) for wide necked aneurysms. The LVIS Jr device offers a new option for the treatment of these challenging lesions, with clear advantages over currently available intracranial stents. Larger series and long term results are needed to confirm the applicability and durability of this technique/technology.

X-ray emission scaling law from a plasma focus with different anode tip materials (Cu, Mo, and W)

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

Sharif, M.; Ahmad, S.; Zakaullah, M.

X-ray emission from a 2.3-5.3 kJ Mather-type plasma focus [Phys. Fluids 7, 5 (1964)] employing copper, molybdenum, and tungsten anode tip is studied. Argon is used as a working gas. Characteristic Cu K{alpha} and Mo K-series emission and their ratio to the continuous x-rays are determined. From the variation of the x-ray yield data with filling pressure at different charging voltages, scaling laws are obtained. X-ray pinhole images demonstrate that a significant amount of x-ray emission is from the anode tip. The comparison of the ratio of characteristic to continuum radiation for copper anode with typical x-ray tube data revealsmore » that the contribution of very high energy electron beam from the focus region for x-ray generation through thick target bremsstrahlung mechanism is not significant. Rather, electrons with energy of the order of, or even less than, the charging voltage are responsible for bulk of the x-ray emission.« less

Easements in Texas. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 5, Spring 1985.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand public and private easements, which most commonly entail the right of a person (or the public) to use the land of another in a certain manner. Following an evaluation form for the packet, a…

Hispanics in U.S. History. Volume 1: Through 1865. Volume 2: 1865 to the Present. The Newcomers Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Varona, Frank; And Others

Each of these two textbooks on Hispanic-American history contains 4 units divided into 20 chapters. Each chapter includes an overarching question; text; reading comprehension questions; study tips; an activity involving geography skills, links between past and present, or daily life; an activity involving arts and technology or using primary…

The Internet Resource Directory for K-12 Teachers and Librarians, 95/96 Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Elizabeth B.

This directory is the second in an annual series of Internet guides for educators and librarians, and provides tips on access to, as well as addresses for, online resources that support the K-12 curriculum and supplement school library core collections. The listings in the catalog are limited to free and frequently updated resources; over 300 new…

Football Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gay, Timothy

2006-05-01

This talk discusses a series of one-minute physics lectures given to the ˜ 8 x 10^4 fans that attend the University of Nebraska home football games. The lecture topics range from gyroscopic motion to ionizing collisions between linebackers and I-backs. The problem of simultaneous edification and amusement of the fan in the stands is considered. Several physics tips for the Vols will be proffered.

How to Help Children with Learning Differences Reach Their Full Potential

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lavoie, Theresa

2008-01-01

This article is the third part of a 10-part series that explores Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It offers and discusses tips on how to help children with learning differences reach their full potential. These include: (1) start with good nutrition; (2) be sure your child is exercising; (3) make sure your child is getting enough…

Negotiating an Oil and Gas Lease. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 6, Spring 1985.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the more common provisions and the legal significance of an oil and gas lease, as well as some provisions landowners may wish to insert for personal benefit and protection. Following an evaluation…

Practical Tips and Tools--Using Stories from the Field for Professional Development: "How-To" Guidelines from Reading to Reflection and Practice Integration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Talmi, Ayelet

2013-01-01

Case studies provide numerous opportunities for professional development and can be particularly helpful in transdiciplinary training. This article offers suggestions for how to use the "Zero to Three" Journal's "Stories From the Field" series of articles across a variety of settings and roles such as clinical practice, program…

Characteristics of the High Performance Real Estate Salesperson. Teachers Instructional Packet, TIP No. 12, Spring 1987.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was developed to help real estate students understand the characteristics of Texas real estate salespersons based on a 1983 state survey. First, questions for class discussion are presented, followed by a summary presentation on the survey findings,…

The Real Estate Inspector. Teachers Instructional Packet (TIP) No. 11, Spring 1986.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Texas Real Estate Research Center.

Part of a series of classroom aids designed for real estate instructors, this instructional packet was designed to help real estate students understand legal requirements for real estate inspectors in Texas. The material is based on Section 18C of the Real Estate License Act, as amended by the 1985 Texas Legislature. Following a presentation on…

Beyond the Book: Technology Integration into the Secondary School Library Media Curriculum. Library and Information Problem-Solving Skills Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doggett, Sandra L.

After exploring the pros and cons of using various technologies in secondary schools, as well as the development of an Acceptable Use Policy, this book describes how technology affects the role and interaction of media specialists, teachers, students, administrators, and parents. Technology planning tips are given on methods to research trends,…

Tip-to-Tail: Developing a Conceptual Model of Magnetism with Kindergartners Using Inquiry-Based Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Hook, Stephen J.; Huziak-Clark, Tracy L.

2007-01-01

This study reports changes in kindergarten students' understanding of magnets after participating in a series of hands-on, inquiry-based lessons. The lessons focused on the dipole nature of magnets and employed a visual representation of a magnet as an arrow for the kindergarten students. This dipole model was used to describe how magnets interact…

Dynamical Interpolation of Mesoscale Flows in the TOPEX/ Poseidon Diamond Surrounding the U.S. Joint Global Ocean Flux Study Bermuda Atlantic Time-Series Study Site

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGillicuddy, D. J.; Kosnyrev, V. K.

2001-01-01

An open boundary ocean model is configured in a domain bounded by the four TOPEX/Poseidon (TIP) ground tracks surrounding the U.S. Joint Global Ocean Flux Study Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) site. This implementation facilitates prescription of model boundary conditions directly from altimetric measurements (both TIP and ERS-2). The expected error characteristics for a domain of this size with periodically updated boundary conditions are established with idealized numerical experiments using simulated data. A hindcast simulation is then constructed using actual altimetric observations during the period October 1992 through September 1998. Quantitative evaluation of the simulation suggests significant skill. The correlation coefficient between predicted sea level anomaly and ERS observations in the model interior is 0.89; that for predicted versus observed dynamic height anomaly based on hydrography at the BATS site is 0.73. Comparison with the idealized experiments suggests that the main source of error in the hindcast is temporal undersampling of the boundary conditions. The hindcast simulation described herein provides a basis for retrospective analysis of BATS observations in the context of the mesoscale eddy field.

Cyclic Nucleotide-gated Channel α-3 (CNGA3) Interacts with Stereocilia Tip-Link Cadherin 23 + Exon 68 or Alternatively with Myosin VIIa, Two Proteins Required for Hair Cell Mechanotransduction*

PubMed Central

Selvakumar, Dakshnamurthy; Drescher, Marian J.; Drescher, Dennis G.

2013-01-01

Previously, we obtained evidence for a photoreceptor/olfactory type of CNGA3 transcript in a purified teleost vestibular hair cell preparation with immunolocalization of CNGA3 protein to stereocilia of teleost vestibular and mammalian cochlear hair cells. The carboxyl terminus of highly Ca2+-permeable CNGA3 expressed in the mammalian organ of Corti and saccular hair cells was found to interact with an intracellular domain of microfibril interface-located protein 1 (EMILIN 1), a member of the elastin superfamily, also immunolocalizd to hair cell stereocilia (Selvakumar, D., Drescher, M. J., Dowdall, J. R., Khan, K. M., Hatfield, J. S., Ramakrishnan, N. A., and Drescher, D. G. (2012) Biochem. J. 443, 463–476). Here, we provide evidence for organ of Corti proteins, of Ca2+-dependent binding of the amino terminus of CNGA3 specifically to the carboxyl terminus of stereocilia tip-link protein CDH23 +68 (cadherin 23 with expressed exon 68) by yeast two-hybrid mating and co-transformation protocols, pulldown assays, and surface plasmon resonance analysis. Myosin VIIa, required for adaptation of hair cell mechanotransduction (MET) channel(s), competed with CDH23 +68, with direct Ca2+-dependent binding to the amino terminus of CNGA3. Based upon the premise that hair cell stereocilia tip-link proteins are closely coupled with MET, these results are consistent with the possibility that CNGA3 participates in hair-cell MET. Together with the demonstration of protein-protein interaction between HCN1 and tip-link protein protocadherin 15 CD3 (Ramakrishnan, N. A., Drescher, M. J., Barretto, R. L., Beisel, K. W., Hatfield, J. S., and Drescher, D. G. (2009) J. Biol. Chem. 284, 3227–3238; Ramakrishnan, N. A., Drescher, M. J., Khan, K. M., Hatfield, J. S., and Drescher, D. G. (2012) J. Biol. Chem. 287, 37628–37646), a protein-protein interaction for CNGA3 and a second tip-link protein, CDH23 +68, further suggests possible association of two different channels with a single stereocilia tip link. PMID:23329832

Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel α-3 (CNGA3) interacts with stereocilia tip-link cadherin 23 + exon 68 or alternatively with myosin VIIa, two proteins required for hair cell mechanotransduction.

PubMed

Selvakumar, Dakshnamurthy; Drescher, Marian J; Drescher, Dennis G

2013-03-08

Previously, we obtained evidence for a photoreceptor/olfactory type of CNGA3 transcript in a purified teleost vestibular hair cell preparation with immunolocalization of CNGA3 protein to stereocilia of teleost vestibular and mammalian cochlear hair cells. The carboxyl terminus of highly Ca(2+)-permeable CNGA3 expressed in the mammalian organ of Corti and saccular hair cells was found to interact with an intracellular domain of microfibril interface-located protein 1 (EMILIN 1), a member of the elastin superfamily, also immunolocalizd to hair cell stereocilia (Selvakumar, D., Drescher, M. J., Dowdall, J. R., Khan, K. M., Hatfield, J. S., Ramakrishnan, N. A., and Drescher, D. G. (2012) Biochem. J. 443, 463-476). Here, we provide evidence for organ of Corti proteins, of Ca(2+)-dependent binding of the amino terminus of CNGA3 specifically to the carboxyl terminus of stereocilia tip-link protein CDH23 +68 (cadherin 23 with expressed exon 68) by yeast two-hybrid mating and co-transformation protocols, pulldown assays, and surface plasmon resonance analysis. Myosin VIIa, required for adaptation of hair cell mechanotransduction (MET) channel(s), competed with CDH23 +68, with direct Ca(2+)-dependent binding to the amino terminus of CNGA3. Based upon the premise that hair cell stereocilia tip-link proteins are closely coupled with MET, these results are consistent with the possibility that CNGA3 participates in hair-cell MET. Together with the demonstration of protein-protein interaction between HCN1 and tip-link protein protocadherin 15 CD3 (Ramakrishnan, N. A., Drescher, M. J., Barretto, R. L., Beisel, K. W., Hatfield, J. S., and Drescher, D. G. (2009) J. Biol. Chem. 284, 3227-3238; Ramakrishnan, N. A., Drescher, M. J., Khan, K. M., Hatfield, J. S., and Drescher, D. G. (2012) J. Biol. Chem. 287, 37628-37646), a protein-protein interaction for CNGA3 and a second tip-link protein, CDH23 +68, further suggests possible association of two different channels with a single stereocilia tip link.

Study on design and cutting parameters of rotating needles for core biopsy.

PubMed

Giovannini, Marco; Ren, Huaqing; Cao, Jian; Ehmann, Kornel

2018-06-15

Core needle biopsies are widely adopted medical procedures that consist in the removal of biological tissue to better identify a lesion or an abnormality observed through a physical exam or a radiology scan. These procedures can provide significantly more information than most medical tests and they are usually performed on bone lesions, breast masses, lymph nodes and the prostate. The quality of the samples mainly depends on the forces exerted by the needle during the cutting process. The reduction of these forces is critical to extract high-quality tissue samples. The most critical factors that affect the cutting forces are the geometry of the needle tip and its motion while it is penetrating the tissue. However, optimal needle tip configurations and cutting parameters are not well established for rotating insertions. In this paper, the geometry and cutting forces of hollow needles are investigated. The fundamental goal of this study is to provide a series of guidelines for clinicians and surgeons to properly select the optimal tip geometries and speeds. Analytical models related to the cutting angles of several needle tip designs are presented and compared. Several needle tip geometries were manufactured from a 14-gauge cannula, commonly adopted during breast biopsies. The needles were then tested at different speeds and on different phantom tissues. According to these experimental measurements recommendations were formulated for rotating needle insertions. The findings of this study can be applied and extended to several biopsy procedures in which a cannula is used to extract tissue samples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Measurement of Kirchhoff's stress intensity factors in bending plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bäcker, D.; Kuna, M.; Häusler, C.

2014-03-01

A measurement method of the stress intensity factors defined by KIRCHHOFF's theory for a crack in a bending plate is shown. For this purpose, a thin piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride film (PVDF) is attached to the surface of the cracked plate. The measured electrical voltages are coupled with the load type and the crack tip position relative to the sensor film. Stress intensity factors and the crack tip position can be determined by solving the non-linear inverse problem based on the measured signals. To guarantee solvability of the problem, more measuring electrodes on the film have to be taken in to account. To the developed sensor concept the KIRCHHOFF's plate theory has been applied. In order to connect the electrical signals and the stress intensity factors the stresses near the crack tip have to be written in eigenfunctions (see WILLIAMS [1]). The presented method was verified by means of the example of a straight crack of the length 2a in an infinite isotropic plate under all- side bending. It was found that the positioning of the electrodes is delimited by two radii. On one hand, the measurement points should not be too close to the crack tip. In this area, the Kirchhoff's plate theory cannot be used effectively. On the other hand, the measuring electrodes should be placed at a smaller distance to each other and not too far from the crack tip regarding the convergence radius of the WILLIAMS series expansion. Test calculations on a straight crack in an infinite isotropic plate showed the general applicability of the measurement method.

[Second toe transfer in congenital hand differences].

PubMed

Dautel, G; Barbary, S

2008-12-01

In congenital hand differences, microsurgical toe transfer involves the creation of one or several rays in a child that never possessed them before. Second toe transplantation was uniformly used in this series that include 65 consecutive cases. Etiologies were represented by symbrachydactyly, constriction band syndrome or central cleft hand. Second toe transfer was performed with or without the MTP joint and followed by proximal ray resection of the donor toe. In the vast majority of theses cases, transplantation was performed in adactylic or monodactylic hand, the ultimate functional goal was the creation of a "tip-to-tip" two fingers pinch. Implantation site was chosen according to the situation of the existing finger(s). The existence of a functioning recipient MCP joint was one of the key factors of the final functional outcome. There were two vascular failures in this series with complete necrosis of the transplanted toe. Two additional toes appeared mediocre with respect to the overall transfer integration. The final mobility of the fingers reconstructed was measured using the total active motion score. Average TAM was poor (42 degrees +/-24 degrees ). In 12 out of 15 patients that were evaluated with a follow-up of at least five years, the static two-point discrimination was found to be excellent (less than 6mm). Our series did not allow us to establish a firm correlation between the type of nerve suture used and the quality of sensory recovery. Growth was measured as a percentage of the intact second toe (68 to 95%). All children on a long term basis had a normal gait without any impediment during sports or leisure activities. Clinical results obtained in this series lead to think that the cerebral cortex has got some plasticity which allows the integration of the transplants.

Basics of compounding: Tips and hints: powders, capsules, tablets, suppositories, and sticks, part 1.

PubMed

Allen, Loyd V

2014-01-01

No matter the profession, professionals should never stop learning. This is especially true and important in the profession of compounding pharmacy. Compounding pharmacists are continuously faced with the challenge of finding new and inventive ways to assist patients with their individual and specific drug requirements. As compounding pharmacists learn, be it through formal continuing education or experience, they should be willing to share their knowledge with other compounders. In our goal of providing compounding pharmacists with additional knowledge to improve their skills in the art and practice of compounding, this article, which provides tips and hits on compounding with powders, capsules, tablets, suppositories, and sticks, represents the first in a series of articles to assist compounding pharmacists in the preparation of compounded medications.

The Power of Protocols: An Educator's Guide to Better Practice. The Series on School Reform.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDonald, Joseph P.; Mohr, Nancy; Dichter, Alan; McDonald, Elizabeth C.

This book describes nearly 30 protocols or "scripts" for conducting meetings, conversations, and other learning experiences among educators. Chapter 1, "The Basic Ideas," explains the basic ideas underlying the rest of the book, discussing why educators should educate themselves and making the case for exploring student work as…

ACTS 118x: High Speed TCP Interoperability Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brooks, David E.; Buffinton, Craig; Beering, Dave R.; Welch, Arun; Ivancic, William D.; Zernic, Mike; Hoder, Douglas J.

1999-01-01

With the recent explosion of the Internet and the enormous business opportunities available to communication system providers, great interest has developed in improving the efficiency of data transfer over satellite links using the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) of the Internet Protocol (IP) suite. The NASA's ACTS experiments program initiated a series of TCP experiments to demonstrate scalability of TCP/IP and determine to what extent the protocol can be optimized over a 622 Mbps satellite link. Through partnerships with the government technology oriented labs, computer, telecommunication, and satellite industries NASA Glenn was able to: (1) promote the development of interoperable, high-performance TCP/IP implementations across multiple computing / operating platforms; (2) work with the satellite industry to answer outstanding questions regarding the use of standard protocols (TCP/IP and ATM) for the delivery of advanced data services, and for use in spacecraft architectures; and (3) conduct a series of TCP/IP interoperability tests over OC12 ATM over a satellite network in a multi-vendor environment using ACTS. The experiments' various network configurations and the results are presented.

Flexion and extension views are not cost-effective in a cervical spine clearance protocol for obtunded trauma patients.

PubMed

Anglen, Jeff; Metzler, Michael; Bunn, Paul; Griffiths, Harry

2002-01-01

Between 1994 and 1999, 837 flexion-extension cervical spine films (F/E) were ordered as part of a protocol to evaluate cervical stability in blunt trauma victims, particularly obtunded patients with otherwise normal films. After 5 years' experience with this protocol, a review of its efficiency and cost-effectiveness was performed. The radiology reports and charts were reviewed for positive or suggestive F/E series. Nearly a third of all series were inadequate to rule out instability. Only four patients were identified who had decreased admission Glasgow Coma Scale score, normal plain films and/or CT, and positive or suggestive findings on F/E. One was felt to be a false positive, and the others had minor or borderline findings; all were treated with continuation of the cervical collar. Although one patient was lost to follow-up, none of the other three required subsequent surgery or developed deformity or neurologic injury. Flexion-extension studies were not a cost-effective part of the protocol, and they were dropped.

In vitro propagation of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) by shoot tip culture.

PubMed

Ozudogru, Elif Aylin; Kaya, Ergun; Lambardi, Maurizio

2013-01-01

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), also known as groundnut, is the most important species of Arachis genus, originating from Brazil and Peru. Peanut seeds contain high seed oil, proteins, amino acids, and vitamin E, and are consumed worldwide as edible nut, peanut butter, or candy, and peanut oil extracted from the seeds. The meal remaining after oil extraction is also used for animal feed. However, its narrow germplasm base, together with susceptibility to diseases, pathogens, and weeds, decreases yield and seed quality and causes great economic losses annually. Hence, the optimization of efficient in vitro propagation procedures would be highly effective for peanut propagation, as it would raise yield and improve seed quality and flavor. Earlier reports on traditional micropropagation methods, based on axillary bud proliferation which guarantees the multiplication of true-to-type plants, are still limited. This chapter describes a micropropagation protocol to improve multiple shoot formation from shoot-tip explants by using AgNO(3) in combination with plant growth regulators.

In Vitro Conservation of Date Palm Shoot-Tip Explants and Callus Cultures Under Minimal Growth Conditions.

PubMed

El-Dawayati, Maiada M

2017-01-01

Date palm fruit production has great economic significance for many countries. There is a fundamental necessity to conserve valuable date palm germplasm, but there are various problems with in vivo and ex situ conservation. In vitro storage has several advantages over conventional germplasm conservation methods. The in vitro technique offers a developed method of slow-growth storage, which is considered as an alternate solution for short- and medium-term storage of date palm germplasm under controlled conditions. Minimal growth conditions for germplasm conservation are generally achieved by reducing growth rate through modification of environmental growing conditions and culture, by using low temperatures, and the addition of growth retardants and osmotic agents. This chapter describes a protocol for short-term in vitro conservation of date palm shoot-tip and callus cultures under slow-growth storage conditions, using sucrose as an osmotic agent and abscisic acid (ABA) as a growth retardant at 15 °C for 12 months.

Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series: Workshop 2a (Sterilization)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, John D. (Editor); Brunch, Carl W. (Editor); Setlow, Richard B. (Editor); DeVincenzi, Donald L. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The Space Studies Board of the National Research Council provided a series of recommendations to NASA on planetary protection requirements for future Mars sample return missions. One of the Board's key findings suggested, although current evidence of the martian surface suggests that life as we know it would not tolerate the planet's harsh environment, there remain 'plausible scenarios for extant microbial life on Mars.' Based on this conclusion, all samples returned from Mars should be considered potentially hazardous until it has been demonstrated that they are not. In response to the National Research Council's findings and recommendations, NASA has undertaken a series of workshops to address issues regarding NASA's proposed sample return missions. Work was previously undertaken at the Mars Sample Handling and Protocol Workshop 1 (March 2000) to formulate recommendations on effective methods for life detection and/or biohazard testing on returned samples. The NASA Planetary Protection Officer convened the Mars Sample Sterilization Workshop, the third in the Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series, on November 28-30, 2000 at the Holiday Inn Rosslyn Westpark, Arlington, Virginia. Because of the short timeframe between this Workshop and the second Workshop in the Series, which was convened in October 2000 in Bethesda, Maryland, they were developed in parallel, so the Sterilization Workshop and its report have therefore been designated as '2a'). The focus of Workshop 2a was to make recommendations for effective sterilization procedures for all phases of Mars sample return missions, and to answer the question of whether we can sterilize samples in such a way that the geological characteristics of the samples are not significantly altered.

The acute effects of heavy back squats on mechanical variables during a series of bilateral hops.

PubMed

Moir, Gavin L; Dale, Jonathan R; Dietrich, Wendy W

2009-07-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the acute effects of performing a heavy resistance exercise (HRE) protocol on the mechanical variables during a series of bilateral hops. In a block-randomized design, 10 strength trained men performed an HRE or a control treatment before performing 5 series of bilateral hops separated by 2 minutes of passive recovery. Each series of bilateral hops was performed for 15 seconds on a force platform with the subject hopping at a frequency of 2.0 Hz. From the vertical force trace, the vertical force during the countermovement phase of each hop, the negative displacement during the countermovement phase, and the vertical stiffness were calculated. The HRE treatment consisted of performing parallel back squats with 40, 50, 60, and 80% of each subject's 1-repetition maximum after a series of dynamic stretches. The control treatment consisted of the dynamic stretches only. No significant differences in any of the mechanical variables were reported after the 2 treatments (p > 0.05). There were no significant correlations between the absolute maximal strength values and the percent change in any of the mechanical variables after the 2 treatments. Despite the lack of significant changes reported for the group, there were some notable individual responses. It is possible that increases in vertical stiffness during bilateral hops can be achieved after an HRE protocol in certain individuals. However, practitioners should be aware of the specificity issues and the individual nature of the responses to such protocols.

Single stage experimental evaluation of tandem-airfoil rotor and stator blading for compressors. Part 4: Data and performance for stage B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brent, J. A.; Cheatham, J. G.

1973-01-01

Stage B, composed of tandem-airfoil rotor B and stator B, was tested with uniform inlet flow and with hub radial, tip radial and 90 degree one-per-revolution circumferential distortion of the inlet flow as part of an overall program to evaluate the effectiveness of tandem airfoils for increasing the design point loading capability and stable operating range of rotor and stator blading. The results of this series of tests provide overall performance and blade element data for evaluating: (1) the potential of tandem blading for extending the loading limit and stable operating range of a stage representative of a middle stage of an advanced high pressure compressor, (2) the effect of loading split between the two airfoils in tandem on the performance of tandem blading, and (3) the effects of inlet flow distortion on the stage performance. The rotor had an inlet hub/tip ratio of 0.8 and a design tip velocity of 757 ft/sec. With uniform inlet flow, rotor B achieved a maximum adiabatic efficiency of 88.4% at design equivalent rotor speed and a pressure ratio of 1.31. The stage maximum adiabatic efficiency at design equivalent rotor speed with uniform inlet flow was 82.5% at a pressure ratio of 1.28. Tip radial and circumferential distortion of the inlet flow caused substantial reductions in surge margin.

The role of tip deflection on the thrust produced by rigid flapping fins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huera-Huarte, Francisco; Gharib, Morteza

2015-11-01

It is well known that flexibility plays an important role in the propulsion performance and efficiency of oscillating fin based propulsion systems. Compliance is one of the aspects that has received more attention, as it seems to be a common feature in nature's flyers and swimmers. Active control strategies are also common in nature. We will show how by deflecting only the last 10% of length of a rigid fin, at the tip, the thrust can be changed dramatically. This can be thought as an alternative to passive flexibility for controlling very efficiently the momentum transfer in the wake and therefore the thrust generation when flapping. A series of experiments have been carried with a robotic fin that allowed the control of its flapping kinematics as well as the control of the motions of its tip independently. We will be showing situations in which the tip was kept at a certain fixed position during a power stroke, and others in which it moved either in-phase or out-of-phase with the fin. The observed thrust and wake dynamics will be discussed for all these situations. The authors would like to acknowledge the financial support provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and by the Spanish Ministerio de Economia y competitividad (MINECO) through grant DPI2012-37904. Visiting Associate in Aerospace, California Institute of Technology.

Critical slowing down as early warning for the onset of collapse in mutualistic communities.

PubMed

Dakos, Vasilis; Bascompte, Jordi

2014-12-09

Tipping points are crossed when small changes in external conditions cause abrupt unexpected responses in the current state of a system. In the case of ecological communities under stress, the risk of approaching a tipping point is unknown, but its stakes are high. Here, we test recently developed critical slowing-down indicators as early-warning signals for detecting the proximity to a potential tipping point in structurally complex ecological communities. We use the structure of 79 empirical mutualistic networks to simulate a scenario of gradual environmental change that leads to an abrupt first extinction event followed by a sequence of species losses until the point of complete community collapse. We find that critical slowing-down indicators derived from time series of biomasses measured at the species and community level signal the proximity to the onset of community collapse. In particular, we identify specialist species as likely the best-indicator species for monitoring the proximity of a community to collapse. In addition, trends in slowing-down indicators are strongly correlated to the timing of species extinctions. This correlation offers a promising way for mapping species resilience and ranking species risk to extinction in a given community. Our findings pave the road for combining theory on tipping points with patterns of network structure that might prove useful for the management of a broad class of ecological networks under global environmental change.

Next generation sequence assembly with AMOS.

PubMed

Treangen, Todd J; Sommer, Dan D; Angly, Florent E; Koren, Sergey; Pop, Mihai

2011-03-01

A Modular Open-Source Assembler (AMOS) was designed to offer a modular approach to genome assembly. AMOS includes a wide range of tools for assembly, including the lightweight de novo assemblers Minimus and Minimo, and Bambus 2, a robust scaffolder able to handle metagenomic and polymorphic data. This protocol describes how to configure and use AMOS for the assembly of Next Generation sequence data. Additionally, we provide three tutorial examples that include bacterial, viral, and metagenomic datasets with specific tips for improving assembly quality. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Method for somatic cell nuclear transfer in zebrafish.

PubMed

Siripattarapravat, Kannika; Cibelli, Jose B

2011-01-01

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) has been a well-known technique for decades and widely applied to generate identical animals, including ones with genetic alterations. The system has been demonstrated successfully in zebrafish. The elaborated requirements of SCNT, however, limit reproducibility of the established model to a few groups in zebrafish research community. In this chapter, we meticulously outline each step of the published protocol as well as preparations of equipments and reagents used in zebrafish SCNT. All describable detailed-tips are elaborated in texts and figures. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Students Living with Caregivers: Tips for Local Liaisons and School Personnel. Best Practices in Homeless Education Brief Series

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center for Homeless Education at SERVE, 2014

2014-01-01

Each year, thousands of students stay with someone who serves as a caregiver, instead of living with a parent or legal guardian. The caregiver may be a relative, friend, school employee, or other individual. Some caregivers provide little to no support for youth staying with them, while others, especially with younger children, often assume more…

76 FR 64293 - Airworthiness Directives; CFM International, S. A. Model CFM56-5B Series Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-18

... serial number (S/N) fan blades, part number (P/N) 338- 002-114-0. This proposed AD was prompted by a normal quality sampling at CFM that isolated a production batch of fan blades with nonconforming geometry of mid-span shroud tips of the fan blades. This defect would cause the upper panel of the fan blade...

A Guide to Inservice Educators: Tips for Obtaining and Utilizing Consultants in Public Schools. Teacher Education Forum Series. Vol. 2, No. 10.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harty, Harold; Bonwit, Toby

This guide to inservice education is designed to help people in school systems (teachers, administrators, counselors, evaluators, and paraprofessionals) with the selection and use of the skills and knowledge of those university faculty committed to inservice education. Consultants are listed who are willing to serve as leaders of workshops,…

Teaching the Internet to Library Staff and Users: 10 Ready-To-Go Workshops That Work. Neal-Schuman NetGuide Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hollands, William D.

This guide features 10 customizable, ready-to-run workshops for librarians wishing to establish or refine ongoing Internet training for staff members or patrons. Each workshop in the book includes an introduction, an objective, a timed lesson plan, tips, a sample script, and reproducible handouts. In order to provide for the variety of settings…

Optimization of a Sample Processing Protocol for Recovery of ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Journal Article Following a release of Bacillus anthracis spores into the environment, there is a potential for lasting environmental contamination in soils. There is a need for detection protocols for B. anthracis in environmental matrices. However, identification of B. anthracis within a soil is a difficult task. Processing soil samples helps to remove debris, chemical components, and biological impurities that can interfere with microbiological detection. This study aimed to optimize a previously used indirect processing protocol, which included a series of washing and centrifugation steps.

Device USB interface and software development for electric parameter measuring instrument

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Deshi; Chen, Jian; Wu, Yadong

2003-09-01

Aimed at general devices development, this paper discussed the development of USB interface and software development. With an example, using PDIUSBD12 which support parallel interface, the paper analyzed its technical characteristics. Designed different interface circuit with 80C52 singlechip microcomputer and TMS320C54 series digital signal processor, analyzed the address allocation, register access. According to USB1.1 standard protocol, designed the device software and application layer protocol. The paper designed the data exchange protocol, and carried out system functions.

Low-cost Cognitive Electronics Technology for Enhanced Communications and Situational Awareness for Networks of Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

series of checkpoints in a complex route network,” while observing standard traffic etiquette and regulations [17]. The rules for the 2012 RoboCup...structure or protocols above the PHY. To support AVEP operation, we developed a packet structure based on the transmission control protocol (TCP...Control Protocol .” 1981. [37] F. Ge, Q. Chen, Y. Wang, C. W. Bostian, T. W. Rondeau, and B. Le, “Cognitive radio: from spectrum sharing to adaptive

MRI features after radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma with cooled probes and impedance-control energy delivery.

PubMed

Cantwell, Colin P; Kerr, Jennifer; O'Byrne, John; Eustace, Stephen

2006-05-01

The purposes of our study were to determine the temporal changes in MR signal in bone after radiofrequency ablation of osteoid osteoma and the size of the zone of marrow signal change produced by the radiofrequency technique and to compare the size of the zone with published data for radiofrequency ablation with manual-control protocols. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 10 patients with a clinical and radiologic diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. A cooled radiofrequency probe was inserted in the nidus. Twelve minutes of radiofrequency energy was applied from a 200-W radiofrequency generator in an impedance-control setting. MRI with multiplanar turbo spin-echo T1-weighted and STIR sequences was performed at 1, 7, and 28 days after the procedure in seven patients. The three remaining patients had follow-up imaging at 28 days only. The images were reviewed by two radiologists who categorized the imaging features and measured the marrow zone of signal alteration when visible. The size of the zone of marrow signal change produced by the radiofrequency technique was compared with published data for radiofrequency ablation with manual-control protocols. A 1-mm band of homogeneous altered marrow signal distributed symmetrically parallel to the entire probe tract was seen earliest, at 1 day, in the femoral neck lesion treated with the 2-cm probe. The band was low signal on the T1 sequence and high signal on the STIR sequence, and the diameter of the zone was 27 mm. By 7 days, five of the seven treated bones showed a band of marrow signal alteration. By 28 days, all 10 treated bones had a band of marrow signal alteration. The interband distance at 90 degrees to the probe measured on STIR images at 28 days was a mean of 20.9 mm (confidence interval, 16.1-25.7 mm [p < 0.05]; range +/- measurement error, 10.5-35 +/- 1.64 mm) with a 1-cm probe and 30.5 mm (measurement error, +/- 0.78 mm) on T1 images without contrast material when a 2-cm exposed-tip probe was used. Higher-output generators with impedance-control software and internally cooled radiofrequency probes with longer exposed tips produce larger zones of marrow signal change than expected with manual-control protocols. MRI allows detection of temporal marrow signal change after radiofrequency ablation. The marrow signal change with a high-energy delivery protocol is larger than manual-control protocols.

Evaluating anesthetic protocols for functional blood flow imaging in the rat eye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moult, Eric M.; Choi, WooJhon; Boas, David A.; Baumann, Bernhard; Clermont, Allen C.; Feener, Edward P.; Fujimoto, James G.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the suitability of five different anesthetic protocols (isoflurane, isoflurane-xylazine, pentobarbital, ketamine-xylazine, and ketamine-xylazine-vecuronium) for functional blood flow imaging in the rat eye. Total retinal blood flow was measured at a series of time points using an ultrahigh-speed Doppler OCT system. Additionally, each anesthetic protocol was qualitatively evaluated according to the following criteria: (1) time-stability of blood flow, (2) overall rate of blood flow, (3) ocular immobilization, and (4) simplicity. We observed that different anesthetic protocols produced markedly different blood flows. Different anesthetic protocols also varied with respect to the four evaluated criteria. These findings suggest that the choice of anesthetic protocol should be carefully considered when designing and interpreting functional blood flow studies in the rat eye.

Glans size is an independent risk factor for urethroplasty complications after hypospadias repair.

PubMed

Bush, Nicol C; Villanueva, Carlos; Snodgrass, Warren

2015-12-01

We hypothesized small glans size could increase urethroplasty complications (UC) following hypospadias repair. To test this, we measured glans width at its widest point in consecutive patients with hypospadias, and following a protocol for surgical decision-making, we then assessed post-operative UC using pre-determined definitions. We now report analysis of glans size as a potential additional independent risk factor for UC after hypospadias repair. Consecutive prepubertal patients undergoing hypospadias repair (2009-2013) had maximum glans width measured using calipers (Fig. 1). There were no differences in surgical technique for urethroplasty or glansplasty in this series based on the measured size of the glans. Multivariate logistic regression analyzed UC (fistula, glans dehiscence, diverticulum, stricture and/or meatal stenosis) based on glans size while adjusting for patient age, meatus (distal or midshaft/proximal), type of repair (TIP, inlay, 2-stage), surgeon, and primary or reoperative repair. Glans size was analyzed as both a continuous and dichotomous variable, with small glans defined as <14 mm. Mean glans size was 15 mm (10-27 mm) in 490 boys (mean 1.5 years) undergoing 432 primary repairs (380d/19mid/33prox), and 58 reoperations (28d/7mid/23prox). Increasing age between 3 months and 10 years did not correlate with increasing glans size (R = 0.01, p = 0.18). 17% had small glans <14 mm. UC occurred in 61 (13%) primary TIP, 2-stage, and reoperative repairs, including 20/81 (25%) patients with small glans <14 mm, versus 41/409 (10%) in patients with glans width ≥14 mm (p = 0.0003). On multivariate analysis, small glans size (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.8-6.8), reoperations (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.5) and mid/proximal meatus (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.6-6.2) were independent risk factors for UC. Surgeon, repair type, and patient age did not impact risk for UC. Analysis with glans size as a continuous variable demonstrated each 1 mm increase in size decreased odds of UC (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7-0.9). Our analysis of prospectively-collected data from a standardized management protocol in 490 consecutive boys undergoing hypospadias repair adds small glans size, defined as width <14 mm, to proximal meatal location and reoperation as an independent risk factor for UC. Best means to modify this factor remain to be determined. Our data suggest that others analyzing potential risks for hypospadias UC should similarly measure and report glans width. Copyright © 2015 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tips pentacene crystal alignment for improving performance of solution processed organic thin film transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Zhengran

A newly-developed p-type organic semiconductor 6,13-bis (triisopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene (TIPS pentacene) demonstrates various advantages such as high mobility, air stability and solution processibility, but at the same time its application is restricted by major issues, such as crystal misorientation and performance variation of organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs). This dissertation demonstrates several different approaches to address these issues. As a result, both crystal orientation and areal coverage can be effectively improved, leading to an enhancement of average mobility and performance consistency of OTFTs. Chapter 1 presents an introduction and background of this dissertation. Chapter 2 explores the usage of inorganic silica nanoparticles to manipulate the morphology of TIPS pentacene thin films and the performance of solution-processed organic OTFTs. The resultant drop-cast films yield improved morphological uniformity at ~10% SiO2 loading, which also leads to a 3-fold increase in average mobility and nearly 4-times reduction in the ratio of standard deviation of mobility (μStdev) to average mobility (μAvg). The experimental results suggest that the SiO2 nanoparticles mostly aggregate at TIPS pentacene grain boundaries, and that 10% nanoparticle concentration effectively reduces the undesirable crystal misorientation without considerably compromising TIPS pentacene crystallinity. Chapter 3 discusses the utilization of air flow to effectively reduce the TIPS pentacene crystal anisotropy and enhance performance consistency in OTFTs. Under air-flow navigation (AFN), TIPS pentacene forms thin films with improved crystal orientation and increased areal coverage, which subsequently lead to a four-fold increase of average hole mobility and one order of magnitude enhancement in performance consistency. Chapter 4 investigates the critical roles of lateral and vertical phase separation in the performance of the next-generation organic and hybrid electronic devices. A novel method is demonstrated here to switch between lateral and vertical phase separation in semiconducting TIPS pentacene/ polymer blend films by simply varying the alkyl length of the polyacrylate polymer component. The phase separation modes depend on intermolecular interactions between small molecule TIPS pentacene and polymer additives. The blend film with a dominant vertical phase separation exhibits a significant enhancement in average mobility and performance consistency of organic OTFTs. Chapter 5 demonstrates an effective approach to improve both charge transport and performance consistency in solution-processed OTFTs by blending TIPS pentacene with a series of small-molecule additives: 4-butylbenzoic acid (BBA), 4-hexylbenzoic acid (HBA), and 4-octylbenzoic acid (OBA). These three small molecules share a benzoic acid moiety, but have different length of hydrophobic tails. The self-assembled interfacial layer of small molecules on the gate oxide surface leads to uniform deposition of TIPS pentacene crystal seeds and facilitates TIPS pentacene to grow along the tilted orientation of substrate, which results in a film of enhanced crystal orientation and areal coverage. OTFTs based on TIPS pentacene/small molecule blends demonstrate greatly improved average hole mobility and performance consistency, which correlates with the length of hydrophobic tail of the small-molecule additives. Chapter 6 summarizes the conclusions of this dissertation and the related future work.

Does adopting a prenatal substance use protocol reduce racial disparities in CPS reporting related to maternal drug use? A California case study.

PubMed

Roberts, S C M; Zahnd, E; Sufrin, C; Armstrong, M A

2015-02-01

This study examined whether adopting a standardized prenatal substance use protocol (protocol) in a hospital labor and delivery unit reduced racial disparities in reporting to child protective services (CPS) related to maternal drug use during pregnancy. This study used an interrupted time series design with a non-equivalent control. One hospital adopted a protocol and another hospital group serving a similar geographic population did not change protocols. Data on CPS reporting disparities from these hospitals over 3.5 years were analyzed using segmented regression. In the hospital that adopted the protocol, almost five times more black than white newborns were reported during the study period. Adopting the protocol was not associated with reduced disparities. Adopting a protocol cannot be assumed to reduce CPS reporting disparities. Efforts to encourage hospitals to adopt protocols as a strategy to reduce disparities may be misguided. Other strategies to reduce disparities are needed.

Evaluation plan for space station network interface units

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weaver, Alfred C.

1990-01-01

Outlined here is a procedure for evaluating network interface units (NIUs) produced for the Space Station program. The procedures should be equally applicable to the data management system (DMS) testbed NIUs produced by Honeywell and IBM. The evaluation procedures are divided into four areas. Performance measurement tools are hardware and software that must be developed in order to evaluate NIU performance. Performance tests are a series of tests, each of which documents some specific characteristic of NIU and/or network performance. In general, these performance tests quantify the speed, capacity, latency, and reliability of message transmission under a wide variety of conditions. Functionality tests are a series of tests and code inspections that demonstrate the functionality of the particular subset of ISO protocols which have been implemented in a given NIU. Conformance tests are a series of tests which would expose whether or not selected features within the ISO protocols are present and interoperable.

Prophylactic Efficacy of Hyperimmune Bovine Colostral Antiadhesin Antibodies Against Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Diarrhea: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 1 Trial.

PubMed

Savarino, Stephen J; McKenzie, Robin; Tribble, David R; Porter, Chad K; O'Dowd, Aisling; Cantrell, Joyce A; Sincock, Stephanie A; Poole, Steven T; DeNearing, Barbara; Woods, Colleen M; Kim, Hye; Grahek, Shannon L; Brinkley, Carl; Crabb, Joseph H; Bourgeois, A Louis

2017-07-01

Tip-localized adhesive proteins of bacterial fimbriae from diverse pathogens confer protection in animal models, but efficacy in humans has not been reported. Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) commonly elaborate colonization factors comprising a minor tip adhesin and major stalk-forming subunit. We assessed the efficacy of antiadhesin bovine colostral IgG (bIgG) antibodies against ETEC challenge in volunteers. Adults were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to take oral hyperimmune bIgG raised against CFA/I minor pilin subunit (CfaE) tip adhesin or colonization factor I (CFA/I) fimbraie (positive control) or placebo. Two days before challenge, volunteers began a thrice-daily, 7-day course of investigational product administered in sodium bicarbonate 15 minutes after each meal. On day 3, subjects drank 1 × 109 colony-forming units of colonization factor I (CFA/I)-ETEC strain H10407 with buffer. The primary efficacy endpoint was diarrhea within 120 hours of challenge. After enrollment and randomization, 31 volunteers received product, underwent ETEC challenge, and were included in the per protocol efficacy analysis. Nine of 11 placebos developed diarrhea, 7 experiencing moderate to severe disease. Protective efficacy of 63% (P = .03) and 88% (P = .002) was observed in the antiadhesin bIgG and positive control groups, respectively. Oral administration of anti-CFA/I minor pilin subunit (CfaE) antibodies conferred significant protection against ETEC, providing the first clinical evidence that fimbrial tip adhesins function as protective antigens. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Imaging and analysis of individual cavitation microbubbles around dental ultrasonic scalers.

PubMed

Vyas, N; Dehghani, H; Sammons, R L; Wang, Q X; Leppinen, D M; Walmsley, A D

2017-11-01

Cavitation is a potentially effective and less damaging method of removing biofilm from biomaterial surfaces. The aim of this study is to characterise individual microbubbles around ultrasonic scaler tips using high speed imaging and image processing. This information will provide improved understanding on the disruption of dental biofilm and give insights into how the instruments can be optimised for ultrasonic cleaning. Individual cavitation microbubbles around ultrasonic scalers were analysed using high speed recordings up to a million frames per second with image processing of the bubble movement. The radius and rate of bubble growth together with the collapse was calculated by tracking multiple points on bubbles over time. The tracking method to determine bubble speed demonstrated good inter-rater reliability (intra class correlation coefficient: 0.993) and can therefore be a useful method to apply in future studies. The bubble speed increased over its oscillation cycle and a maximum of 27ms -1 was recorded during the collapse phase. The maximum bubble radii ranged from 40 to 80μm. Bubble growth was observed when the ultrasonic scaler tip receded from an area and similarly bubble collapse was observed when the tip moved towards an area, corresponding to locations of low pressure around the scaler tip. Previous work shows that this cavitation is involved in biofilm removal. Future experimental work can be based on these findings by using the protocols developed to experimentally analyse cavitation around various clinical instruments and comparing with theoretical calculations. This will help to determine the main cleaning mechanisms of cavitation and how clinical instruments such as ultrasonic scalers can be optimised. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Clonal propagation of Phyllanthus amarus: A hepatoprotector

PubMed Central

Xavier, Janifer R.; Gnanam, Ramaswamy; Murugan, Muthiah P.; Pappachan, Anju

2012-01-01

Background: The micropropagation protocol for Phyllanthus amarus, an important medicinal herb used widely for the treatment of hepatitis in ethnomedicinal systems, was standardized with shoot tip and single node explants. Materials and Methods: The micropropagation was carried out for the hyperproducing ecotype (phyllanthin content 463.828 ppm; hypophyllanthin content: 75.469 ppm) collected from Aanaikatti, Coimbatore, and grown in mist chamber, CPMB, TNAU. For micropropagation studies, the leaves were trimmed off and the shoot tips (6 mm long) and nodal segments (single node) were used for initiation. Results: Shoot tips and single node explants gave a maximum of 6.00 and 7.00 multiple shoots per explant with Benzyl Amino Purine (BAP) (1.0mg/L mg/L). Upon subculturing, a shoot length of around 7 cm with an average of eight internodes per shoot was observed after 20 days in the elongation medium supplemented with BAP (0.2 mg/Lmg/L) and Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) (2.0 mg/L). Seven to ten adventitious roots developed when the elongated microshoots were cultured in half strength MS medium with Indole Butyric Acid (IBA) (2.0 mg/Lmg/L) and NAA (1.0 mg/L mg/L) in 15-20 days after transfer. The rooted shoots acclimatized successfully to field conditions. Conclusion: A method for successful micropropagation of the valuable medicinal plant was established which will provide a better source for continuous supply of plants for manufacturing drugs. PMID:22438668

The Value of Rotational Venography Versus Anterior–Posterior Venography in 100 Consecutive IVC Filter Retrievals

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

Kiefer, Ryan M., E-mail: rkiefer11@gmail.com; Pandey, Nirnimesh; Trerotola, Scott O.

PurposeAccurately detecting inferior vena cava (IVC) filter complications is important for safe and successful retrieval as tip-embedded filters require removal with non-standard techniques. Venography prior to IVC filter retrieval has traditionally used a single anterior–posterior (AP) projection. This study compares the utility of rotational venography to AP venography prior to IVC filter removal.Materials and MethodsThe rotational venograms from 100 consecutive IVC filter retrievals over a 35-month period were evaluated retrospectively. The AP view of the rotational venogram was examined separately from the full series by a radiologist blinded to alternative imaging and operative findings. The venograms were evaluated for tipmore » embedding, filter fracture, filter thrombus, and IVC thrombus. Statistical analysis was performed.ResultsUsing operative findings and peri-procedural imaging as the reference standard, tip embedding occurred in 59 of the 100 filters (59 %). AP venography was used to correctly identify 31 tip-embedded filters (53 % sensitivity) with two false positives (95 % specificity) for an accuracy of 70 %. Rotational venography was used to correctly identify 58 tip-embedded filters (98 % sensitivity) with one false positive (98 % specificity) for an accuracy of 98 %. A significant difference was found in the sensitivities of the two diagnostic approaches (P < .01). Other findings of thrombus and filter fracture were not significantly different between the two groups.ConclusionRotational venograms allow for more accurate detection of tip-embedded IVC filters compared to AP views alone. As this determines the approach taken, rotational venograms are helpful if obtained prior to IVC filter retrieval.« less

Design and synthesis of diverse functional kinked nanowire structures for nanoelectronic bioprobes.

PubMed

Xu, Lin; Jiang, Zhe; Qing, Quan; Mai, Liqiang; Zhang, Qingjie; Lieber, Charles M

2013-02-13

Functional kinked nanowires (KNWs) represent a new class of nanowire building blocks, in which functional devices, for example, nanoscale field-effect transistors (nanoFETs), are encoded in geometrically controlled nanowire superstructures during synthesis. The bottom-up control of both structure and function of KNWs enables construction of spatially isolated point-like nanoelectronic probes that are especially useful for monitoring biological systems where finely tuned feature size and structure are highly desired. Here we present three new types of functional KNWs including (1) the zero-degree KNW structures with two parallel heavily doped arms of U-shaped structures with a nanoFET at the tip of the "U", (2) series multiplexed functional KNW integrating multi-nanoFETs along the arm and at the tips of V-shaped structures, and (3) parallel multiplexed KNWs integrating nanoFETs at the two tips of W-shaped structures. First, U-shaped KNWs were synthesized with separations as small as 650 nm between the parallel arms and used to fabricate three-dimensional nanoFET probes at least 3 times smaller than previous V-shaped designs. In addition, multiple nanoFETs were encoded during synthesis in one of the arms/tip of V-shaped and distinct arms/tips of W-shaped KNWs. These new multiplexed KNW structures were structurally verified by optical and electron microscopy of dopant-selective etched samples and electrically characterized using scanning gate microscopy and transport measurements. The facile design and bottom-up synthesis of these diverse functional KNWs provides a growing toolbox of building blocks for fabricating highly compact and multiplexed three-dimensional nanoprobes for applications in life sciences, including intracellular and deep tissue/cell recordings.

Influence of minor geometric features on Stirling pulse tube cryocooler performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, T.; Spoor, P. S.; Ghiaasiaan, S. M.; Perrella, M.

2017-12-01

Minor geometric features and imperfections are commonly introduced into the basic design of multi-component systems to simplify or reduce the manufacturing expense. In this work, the cooling performance of a Stirling type cryocooler was tested in different driving powers, cold-end temperatures and inclination angles. A series of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations based on a prototypical cold tip was carried out. Detailed CFD model predictions were compared with the experiment and were used to investigate the impact of such apparently minor geometric imperfections on the performance of Stirling type pulse tube cryocoolers. Predictions of cooling performance and gravity orientation sensitivity were compared with experimental results obtained with the cryocooler prototypes. The results indicate that minor geometry features in the cold tip assembly can have considerable negative effects on the gravity orientation sensitivity of a pulse tube cryocooler.

A standardised protocol for the validation of banking methodologies for arterial allografts.

PubMed

Lomas, R J; Dodd, P D F; Rooney, P; Pegg, D E; Hogg, P A; Eagle, M E; Bennett, K E; Clarkson, A; Kearney, J N

2013-09-01

The objective of this study was to design and test a protocol for the validation of banking methodologies for arterial allografts. A series of in vitro biomechanical and biological assessments were derived, and applied to paired fresh and banked femoral arteries. The ultimate tensile stress and strain, suture pullout stress and strain, expansion/rupture under hydrostatic pressure, histological structure and biocompatibility properties of disinfected and cryopreserved femoral arteries were compared to those of fresh controls. No significant differences were detected in any of the test criteria. This validation protocol provides an effective means of testing and validating banking protocols for arterial allografts.

Altered Mental Status: Current Evidence-based Recommendations for Prehospital Care

PubMed Central

Sanello, Ashley; Mulkerin, William; Sporer, Karl A.; Brown, John F.; Koenig, Kristi L.; Rudnick, Eric M.; Salvucci, Angelo A.; Gilbert, Gregory H.

2018-01-01

Introduction In the United States emergency medical services (EMS) protocols vary widely across jurisdictions. We sought to develop evidence-based recommendations for the prehospital evaluation and treatment of a patient with an acute change in mental status and to compare these recommendations against the current protocols used by the 33 EMS agencies in the State of California. Methods We performed a literature review of the current evidence in the prehospital treatment of a patient with altered mental status (AMS) and augmented this review with guidelines from various national and international societies to create our evidence-based recommendations. We then compared the AMS protocols of each of the 33 EMS agencies for consistency with these recommendations. The specific protocol components that we analyzed were patient assessment, point-of-care tests, supplemental oxygen, use of standardized scoring, evaluating for causes of AMS, blood glucose evaluation, toxicological treatment, and pediatric evaluation and management. Results Protocols across 33 EMS agencies in California varied widely. All protocols call for a blood glucose check, 21 (64%) suggest treating adults at <60mg/dL, and half allow for the use of dextrose 10%. All the protocols recommend naloxone for signs of opioid overdose, but only 13 (39%) give specific parameters. Half the agencies (52%) recommend considering other toxicological causes of AMS, often by using the mnemonic AEIOU TIPS. Eight (24%) recommend a 12-lead electrocardiogram; others simply suggest cardiac monitoring. Fourteen (42%) advise supplemental oxygen as needed; only seven (21%) give specific parameters. In terms of considering various etiologies of AMS, 25 (76%) give instructions to consider trauma, 20 (61%) to consider stroke, and 18 (55%) to consider seizure. Twenty-three (70%) of the agencies have separate pediatric AMS protocols; others include pediatric considerations within the adult protocol. Conclusion Protocols for patients with AMS vary widely across the State of California. The evidence-based recommendations that we present for the prehospital diagnosis and treatment of this condition may be useful for EMS medical directors tasked with creating and revising these protocols. PMID:29760852

A novel design of a scanning probe microscope integrated with an ultramicrotome for serial block-face nanotomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Efimov, Anton E.; Agapov, Igor I.; Agapova, Olga I.; Oleinikov, Vladimir A.; Mezin, Alexey V.; Molinari, Michael; Nabiev, Igor; Mochalov, Konstantin E.

2017-02-01

We present a new concept of a combined scanning probe microscope (SPM)/ultramicrotome apparatus. It enables "slice-and-view" scanning probe nanotomography measurements and 3D reconstruction of the bulk sample nanostructure from series of SPM images after consecutive ultrathin sections. The sample is fixed on a flat XYZ scanning piezostage mounted on the ultramicrotome arm. The SPM measuring head with a cantilever tip and a laser-photodiode tip detection system approaches the sample for SPM measurements of the block-face surface immediately after the ultramicrotome sectioning is performed. The SPM head is moved along guides that are also fixed on the ultramicrotome arm. Thereby, relative dysfunctional displacements of the tip, the sample, and the ultramicrotome knife are minimized. The design of the SPM head enables open frontal optical access to the sample block-face adapted for high-resolution optical lenses for correlative SPM/optical microscopy applications. The new system can be used in a wide range of applications for the study of 3D nanostructures of biological objects, biomaterials, polymer nanocomposites, and nanohybrid materials in various SPM and optical microscopy measuring modes.

External rhinoplasty: a critical analysis of 500 cases.

PubMed

Foda, Hossam M T

2003-06-01

The study presents a comprehensive statistical analysis of a series of 500 consecutive rhinoplasties of which 380 (76 per cent) were primary and 120 (24 per cent) were secondary cases. All cases were operated upon using the external rhinoplasty technique; simultaneous septal surgery was performed in 350 (70 per cent) of the cases. Deformities of the upper two-thirds of the nose that occurred significantly more in the secondary cases included; dorsal saddling, dorsal irregularities, valve collapse, open roof and pollybeak deformities. In the lower third of the nose; secondary cases showed significantly higher incidences of depressed tip, tip over-rotation, tip asymmetry, retracted columella, and alar notching. Suturing techniques were used significantly more in primary cases, while in secondary cases grafting techniques were used significantly more. The complications encountered intra-operatively included; septal flap tears (2.8 per cent) and alar cartilage injury (1.8 per cent), while post-operative complications included; nasal trauma (one per cent), epistaxis (two per cent), infection (2.4 per cent), prolonged oedema (17 per cent), and nasal obstruction (0.8 per cent). The overall patient satisfaction rate was 95.6 per cent and the transcolumellar scar was found to be unacceptable in only 0.8 per cent of the patients.

Teaching Surgical Procedures with Movies: Tips for High-quality Video Clips.

PubMed

Jacquemart, Mathieu; Bouletreau, Pierre; Breton, Pierre; Mojallal, Ali; Sigaux, Nicolas

2016-09-01

Video must now be considered as a precious tool for learning surgery. However, the medium does present production challenges, and currently, quality movies are not always accessible. We developed a series of 7 surgical videos and made them available on a publicly accessible internet website. Our videos have been viewed by thousands of people worldwide. High-quality educational movies must respect strategic and technical points to be reliable.

Synchronizable Series Expressions. Part 1. User’s Manual for the OSS Macro Package.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-01

and prognS are often used in such a wav that ant Oss serlv, grat uitonisl% ends tip as, the ret urn valute. For examiple. the iii ai itI rit ent of...as j)0sSIbI1l. -11hi akes it straighitforwa~rd to midi (ert arid thle interaction of the, jIe-cffect,, wilit a sigeniapi)ed subexpression. Several

Peer Observations among Faculty in a College of Education: Investigating the Summative and Formative Uses of the Reformed Teaching Observation Protocol (RTOP)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Amrein-Beardsley, Audrey; Osborn Popp, Sharon E.

2012-01-01

Teacher educators piloted the use of the Reformed Teaching Observation Protocol (RTOP), a peer observation instrument associated with increases in learning in science and mathematics teacher education courses. Faculty participants received a series of trainings in RTOP use and rated each other's teaching during multiple peer observations. The…

Reducing Tobacco Use among Youth: Community-Based Approaches. A Guideline for Prevention Practitioners. Prevention Enhancement Protocols System (PEPS) Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birch & Davis Associates, Inc., Silver Spring, MD.

A substantial knowledge base exists on reduction of tobacco use by youth. Effective prevention in this area can have major health and economic benefits. Information from research and prevention practice, organized by means of the Prevention Enhancement Protocols System (PEPS), is provided in the form of guidelines and recommendations for planning…

A Novel Method for Reducing Rotor Blade-Vortex Interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glinka, A. T.

2000-01-01

One of the major hindrances to expansion of the rotorcraft market is the high-amplitude noise they produce, especially during low-speed descent, where blade-vortex interactions frequently occur. In an attempt to reduce the noise levels caused by blade-vortex interactions, the flip-tip rotor blade concept was devised. The flip-tip rotor increases the miss distance between the shed vortices and the rotor blades, reducing BVI noise. The distance is increased by rotating an outboard portion of the rotor tip either up or down depending on the flight condition. The proposed plan for the grant consisted of a computational simulation of the rotor aerodynamics and its wake geometry to determine the effectiveness of the concept, coupled with a series of wind tunnel experiments exploring the value of the device and validating the computer model. The computational model did in fact show that the miss distance could be increased, giving a measure of the effectiveness of the flip-tip rotor. However, the wind experiments were not able to be conducted. Increased outside demand for the 7'x lO' wind tunnel at NASA Ames and low priority at Ames for this project forced numerous postponements of the tests, eventually pushing the tests beyond the life of the grant. A design for the rotor blades to be tested in the wind tunnel was completed and an analysis of the strength of the model blades based on predicted loads, including dynamic forces, was done.

From Graphite to Graphene via Scanning Tunneling Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Dejun

The primary objective of this dissertation is to study both graphene on graphite and pristine freestanding grapheme using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT) simulation technique. In the experiment part, good quality tungsten metalic tips for experiment were fabricated using our newly developed tip making setup. Then a series of measurements using a technique called electrostatic-manipulation scanning tunneling microscopy (EM-STM) of our own development were performed on a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) surface. The electrostatic interaction between the STM tip and the sample can be tuned to produce both reversible and irreversible large-scale movement of the graphite surface. Under this influence, atomic-resolution STM images reveal that a continuous electronic transition between two distinct patterns can be systematically controlled. DFT calculations reveal that this transition can be related to vertical displacements of the top layer of graphite relative to the bulk. Evidence for horizontal shifts in the top layer of graphite is also presented. Excellent agreement is found between experimental STM images and those simulated using DFT. In addition, the EM-STM technique was also used to controllably and reversibly pull freestanding graphene membranes up to 35 nm from their equilibrium height. Atomic-scale corrugation amplitudes 20 times larger than the STM electronic corrugation for graphene on a substrate were observed. The freestanding graphene membrane responds to a local attractive force created at the STM tip as a highly conductive yet flexible grounding plane with an elastic restoring force.

A quarantine protocol for analysis of returned extraterrestrial samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bagby, J. R.; Sweet, H. C.; Devincenzi, D. L.

1983-01-01

A protocol is presented for the analysis at an earth-orbiting quarantine facility of return samples of extraterrestrial material that might contain (nonterrestrial) life forms. The protocol consists of a series of tests designed to determine whether the sample, conceptualized as a 1-kg sample of Martian soil, is free from nonterrestrial biologically active agents and so may safely be sent to a terrestrial containment facility, or it exhibits biological activity requiring further (second-order) testing outside the biosphere. The first-order testing procedure seeks to detect the presence of any replicating organisms or toxic substances through a series of experiments including gas sampling, analysis of radioactivity, stereomicroscopic inspection, chemical analysis, microscopic examination, the search for metabolic products under growth conditions, microbiologicl assays, and the challenge of cultured cells with any agents found or with the extraterrestrial material as is. Detailed plans for the second-order testing would be developed in response to the actual data received from primary testing.

Subsonic flutter analysis addition to NASTRAN. [for use with CDC 6000 series digital computers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doggett, R. V., Jr.; Harder, R. L.

1973-01-01

A subsonic flutter analysis capability has been developed for NASTRAN, and a developmental version of the program has been installed on the CDC 6000 series digital computers at the Langley Research Center. The flutter analysis is of the modal type, uses doublet lattice unsteady aerodynamic forces, and solves the flutter equations by using the k-method. Surface and one-dimensional spline functions are used to transform from the aerodynamic degrees of freedom to the structural degrees of freedom. Some preliminary applications of the method to a beamlike wing, a platelike wing, and a platelike wing with a folded tip are compared with existing experimental and analytical results.

Surgical site infections after elective neurosurgery: a survey of 1747 patients.

PubMed

Valentini, Laura G; Casali, Cecilia; Chatenoud, Liliane; Chiaffarino, Francesca; Uberti-Foppa, Caterina; Broggi, Giovanni

2008-01-01

To evaluate the incidence and risk factors of postsurgical site infections (SSIs) in elective neurosurgical procedures in patients treated with an ultrashort antibiotic protocol. In this consecutive series of 1747 patients treated with elective neurosurgery and ultrashort prophylactic antibiotic therapy at the Fondazione Istituto Nazionale Neurologico "Carlo Besta" in Milan, the rate of SSIs was 0.7% (13 patients). When only clean neurosurgery was considered, there were 11 such SSIs (1.52%) in 726 craniotomies and one SSI (0.15) in 663 spinal operations. The antibiotic protocol was prolonged in every case of external communication as cerebrospinal fluid leaks or external drainages. The infection rate of the whole series was low (0.72%), and a risk factor identified for SSIs in clean neurosurgery was longer surgery duration. The relative risk estimate was 12.6 for surgeries lasting 2 hours and 24.3 for surgeries lasting 3 or more hours. Patients aged older than 50 years had a lower risk of developing SSI with a relative risk of 0.23 when compared with patients aged younger than 50 years. The present series reports a low incidence of SSIs for elective neurosurgery, even for high-risk complex craniotomies performed for tumor removal. Given that an antibiotic protocol prolongation was used to pretreat any early signs of infection and external communication, the protocol was appropriate for the case mix. The two identified risk factors (surgical duration > 2 hours and middle-aged patients [16-50 yr]) may be indicators of other factors, such as the level of surgical complexity and poor neurological outcome.

Protocol for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Is it rocket science?

PubMed

Hori, Tomohide; Oike, Fumitaka; Furuyama, Hiroaki; Machimoto, Takafumi; Kadokawa, Yoshio; Hata, Toshiyuki; Kato, Shigeru; Yasukawa, Daiki; Aisu, Yuki; Sasaki, Maho; Kimura, Yusuke; Takamatsu, Yuichiro; Naito, Masato; Nakauchi, Masaya; Tanaka, Takahiro; Gunji, Daigo; Nakamura, Kiyokuni; Sato, Kiyoko; Mizuno, Masahiro; Iida, Taku; Yagi, Shintaro; Uemoto, Shinji; Yoshimura, Tsunehiro

2016-12-21

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) does not require advanced techniques, and its performance has therefore rapidly spread worldwide. However, the rate of biliary injuries has not decreased. The concept of the critical view of safety (CVS) was first documented two decades ago. Unexpected injuries are principally due to misidentification of human factors. The surgeon's assumption is a major cause of misidentification, and a high level of experience alone is not sufficient for successful LC. We herein describe tips and pitfalls of LC in detail and discuss various technical considerations. Finally, based on a review of important papers and our own experience, we summarize the following mandatory protocol for safe LC: (1) consideration that a high level of experience alone is not enough; (2) recognition of the plateau involving the common hepatic duct and hepatic hilum; (3) blunt dissection until CVS exposure; (4) Calot's triangle clearance in the overhead view; (5) Calot's triangle clearance in the view from underneath; (6) dissection of the posterior right side of Calot's triangle; (7) removal of the gallbladder body; and (8) positive CVS exposure. We believe that adherence to this protocol will ensure successful and beneficial LC worldwide, even in patients with inflammatory changes and rare anatomies.

Gene delivery by direct injection (microinjection) using a controlled-flow system.

PubMed

Dean, David A

2006-12-01

INTRODUCTIONThis protocol describes a method for constant-flow microinjection using the Pneumatic PicoPump (World Precision Instruments). This type of system is very simple and can be assembled on a relatively low budget. In this method, a constant flow of sample is delivered from the tip of the pipette, and the amount of sample injected into the cell is determined by how long the pipette remains in the cell. A typical system is composed of a pressure regulator that can be adjusted for two pressures (back pressure and injection pressure), a capillary holder, and a coarse and fine micromanipulator.

Antibonding ground state of adatom molecules in bulk Dirac semimetals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marques, Y.; Obispo, A. E.; Ricco, L. S.; de Souza, M.; Shelykh, I. A.; Seridonio, A. C.

2017-07-01

The ground state of the diatomic molecules in nature is inevitably bonding, and its first excited state is antibonding. We demonstrate theoretically that, for a pair of distant adatoms placed buried in three-dimensional-Dirac semimetals, this natural order of the states can be reversed and an antibonding ground state occurs at the lowest energy of the so-called bound states in the continuum. We propose an experimental protocol with the use of a scanning tunneling microscope tip to visualize the topographic map of the local density of states on the surface of the system to reveal the emerging physics.

Moving beyond the udorthent - a proposed protocol for surveying urban soils to service data needs for contemporary urban ecosystem management

EPA Science Inventory

County-level, Order 2 soil surveys have been used for decades to illustrate the spatial distribution of soils and communicate the utility and limitations of soil series. For the vast majority of these soil surveys, however, there is a distinct lack of resolution of soil series an...

Clinical Practice as Natural Laboratory for Psychotherapy Research: A Guide to Case-Based Time-Series Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Borckardt, Jeffrey J.; Nash, Michael R.; Murphy, Martin D.; Moore, Mark; Shaw, Darlene; O'Neil, Patrick

2008-01-01

Both researchers and practitioners need to know more about how laboratory treatment protocols translate to real-world practice settings and how clinical innovations can be systematically tested and communicated to a skeptical scientific community. The single-case time-series study is well suited to opening a productive discourse between practice…

Evaluation of the University of Florida lomustine, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone chemotherapy protocol for the treatment of relapsed lymphoma in dogs: 33 cases (2003-2009).

PubMed

Fahey, Christine E; Milner, Rowan J; Barabas, Karri; Lurie, David; Kow, Kelvin; Parfitt, Shannon; Lyles, Sarah; Clemente, Monica

2011-07-15

To evaluate the toxicity and efficacy of a modification of a previously evaluated combination of lomustine, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (LOPP) as a rescue protocol for refractory lymphoma in dogs. Retrospective case series. Animals-33 dogs with a cytologic or histologic diagnosis of lymphoma that developed resistance to their induction chemotherapy protocol. Lomustine was administered on day 0 of the protocol. Vincristine was administered on day 0 and again 1 time on day 14. Procarbazine and prednisone were administered on days 0 through 13 of the protocol. This cycle was repeated every 28 days. Median time from initiation to discontinuation of the University of Florida LOPP protocol was 84 days (range, 10 to 308 days). Overall median survival time was 290 days (range, 51 to 762 days). Overall response rate with this protocol was 61% (20/33), with 36% (12) having a complete response and 24% (8) having a partial response. Toxicosis rates were lower than for the previously published LOPP protocol. The University of Florida LOPP protocol may be an acceptable alternative to the mechlorethamine, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone protocol as a rescue protocol for dogs with lymphoma.

The importance of the Montreal Protocol in protecting climate.

PubMed

Velders, Guus J M; Andersen, Stephen O; Daniel, John S; Fahey, David W; McFarland, Mack

2007-03-20

The 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is a landmark agreement that has successfully reduced the global production, consumption, and emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs). ODSs are also greenhouse gases that contribute to the radiative forcing of climate change. Using historical ODSs emissions and scenarios of potential emissions, we show that the ODS contribution to radiative forcing most likely would have been much larger if the ODS link to stratospheric ozone depletion had not been recognized in 1974 and followed by a series of regulations. The climate protection already achieved by the Montreal Protocol alone is far larger than the reduction target of the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. Additional climate benefits that are significant compared with the Kyoto Protocol reduction target could be achieved by actions under the Montreal Protocol, by managing the emissions of substitute fluorocarbon gases and/or implementing alternative gases with lower global warming potentials.

The importance of the Montreal Protocol in protecting climate

PubMed Central

Velders, Guus J. M.; Andersen, Stephen O.; Daniel, John S.; Fahey, David W.; McFarland, Mack

2007-01-01

The 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is a landmark agreement that has successfully reduced the global production, consumption, and emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs). ODSs are also greenhouse gases that contribute to the radiative forcing of climate change. Using historical ODSs emissions and scenarios of potential emissions, we show that the ODS contribution to radiative forcing most likely would have been much larger if the ODS link to stratospheric ozone depletion had not been recognized in 1974 and followed by a series of regulations. The climate protection already achieved by the Montreal Protocol alone is far larger than the reduction target of the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. Additional climate benefits that are significant compared with the Kyoto Protocol reduction target could be achieved by actions under the Montreal Protocol, by managing the emissions of substitute fluorocarbon gases and/or implementing alternative gases with lower global warming potentials. PMID:17360370

Milrinone and homeostasis to treat cerebral vasospasm associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage: the Montreal Neurological Hospital protocol.

PubMed

Lannes, Marcelo; Teitelbaum, Jeanne; del Pilar Cortés, Maria; Cardoso, Mauro; Angle, Mark

2012-06-01

For the treatment of cerebral vasospasm, current therapies have focused on increasing blood flow through blood pressure augmentation, hypervolemia, the use of intra-arterial vasodilators, and angioplasty of proximal cerebral vessels. Through a large case series, we present our experience of treating cerebral vasospasm with a protocol based on maintenance of homeostasis (correction of electrolyte and glucose disturbances, prevention and treatment of hyperthermia, replacement of fluid losses), and the use of intravenous milrinone to improve microcirculation (the Montreal Neurological Hospital protocol). Our objective is to describe the use milrinone in our practice and the neurological outcomes associated with this approach. Large case series based on the review of all patients diagnosed with delayed ischemic neurologic deficits after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage between April 1999 and April 2006. 88 patients were followed for a mean time of 44.6 months. An intravenous milrinone infusion was used for a mean of 9.8 days without any significant side effects. No medical complications associated with this protocol were observed. There were five deaths; of the surviving patients, 48.9 % were able to go back to their previous baseline and 75 % had a good functional outcome (modified Rankin scale ≤ 2). A protocol using intravenous milrinone, and the maintenance of homeostasis is simple to use and requires less intensive monitoring and resources than the standard triple H therapy. Despite the obvious limitations of this study's design, we believe that it would be now appropriate to proceed with formal prospective studies of this protocol.

Modified tube gastropexy using a mushroom-tipped silicone catheter for management of gastric dilatation-volvulus in dogs.

PubMed

Belch, A; Rubinos, C; Barnes, D C; Nelissen, P

2017-02-01

To report the short- and long-term complications and clinical outcomes of a cohort of dogs managed for gastric dilatation-volvulus using a modified right-sided tube gastropexy technique. Retrospective case series. Of 31 dogs treated, 29 (93·5%) had an excellent short-term outcome, and gastric dilatation-volvulus did not recur in any dog. Twenty-six dogs (84%) were initially fed via the gastrostomy tube postoperatively; three (9·7%) suffered a major complication including septic peritonitis (n=1), and premature tube removal (n=2). Fourteen dogs (45·1%) had minor complications including mild, self-limiting discharge from the stoma site in 13. Modified tube gastropexy using a mushroom-tipped silicone catheter is an effective and safe surgical method for the management of gastric dilatation-volvulus. The gastrostomy tube allowed early enteral feeding and easy administration of medications, including gastroprotectants. © 2017 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.

Twelve tips for developing and delivering a massive open online course in medical education.

PubMed

Pickering, James D; Henningsohn, Lars; DeRuiter, Marco C; de Jong, Peter G M; Reinders, Marlies E J

2017-07-01

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are a novel mode of online learning. They are typically based on higher education courses and can attract a high number of learners, often in the thousands. They are distinct from on-campus education and deliver the learning objectives through a series of short videos, recommended readings and discussion fora, alongside automated assessments. Within medical education the role of MOOCs remains unclear, with recent proposals including continuing professional development, interprofessional education or integration into campus-based blended learning curricula. In this twelve tips article, we aim to provide a framework for readers to use when developing, delivering and evaluating a MOOC within medical education based on the literature and our own experience. Practical advice is provided on how to design the appropriate curriculum, engage with learners on the platform, select suitable assessments, and comprehensively evaluate the impact of your course.

Flight Investigation of Control-stick Vibration of the YG-1B Autogiro

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, F J , Jr

1940-01-01

As a preliminary step in an investigation of control-stick vibration in direct-control autogiros, the periodic variations in the moments transmitted through the control system of a YG-1B autogiro were recorded in flight. The results of the measurements are presented in the form of coefficients of Fourier series expressing the varying part of the lateral and the longitudinal moments acting between rotor and fuselage at the control trunnions. The most important component of the variation in stick force was found to have frequency of three times the rotor speed and an amplitude that rose from negligible values at tip-speed ratio below 0.20 to +/-5.2 pounds longitudinally and +/-3.2 pounds laterally at tip-speed ratios of 0.35. Variations in stick force at all other frequencies were small in comparison with those at three times the rotor speed.

Tips for leaders, part I: basic principles of leadership.

PubMed

Harolds, Jay A

2011-08-01

There are many important leadership skills that can be learned from experience, mentoring, reading, discussions, lectures, etc. The subjects include not only business topics and communication skills but also a variety of tips on what to do and what not to do. These include desirable styles of leadership, how to gain the trust of others in the organization, the significance of the appropriate delegation of tasks, the importance of teams, how to manage change, how to win during a crisis, what to do in the early days of becoming a new leader, preventing the loss of one's practice to a rival organization, improving quality, and others. There are also many important attributes of leaders, including having a strong moral compass. Although each of these topics could be a book in of itself, this short series of articles will briefly examine these issues and others.

Anatomical and functional characteristics of carotid sinus stimulation in humans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Querry, R. G.; Smith, S. A.; Stromstad, M.; Ide, K.; Secher, N. H.; Raven, P. B.

2001-01-01

Transmission characteristics of pneumatic pressure to the carotid sinus were evaluated in 19 subjects at rest and during exercise. Either a percutaneous fluid-filled (n = 12) or balloon-tipped catheter (n = 7) was placed at the carotid bifurcation to record internal transmission of external neck pressure/neck suction (NP/NS). Sustained, 5-s pulses, and rapid ramping pulse protocols (+40 to -80 Torr) were recorded. Transmission of pressure stimuli was less with the fluid-filled catheter compared with that of the balloon-tipped catheter (65% vs. 82% negative pressure, 83% vs. 89% positive pressure; P < 0.05). Anatomical location of the carotid sinus averaged 3.2 cm (left) and 3.6 cm (right) from the gonion of the mandible with a range of 0-7.5 cm. Transmission was not altered by exercise or Valsalva maneuver, but did vary depending on the position of the carotid sinus locus beneath the sealed chamber. These data indicate that transmission of external NP/NS was higher than previously recorded in humans, and anatomical variation of carotid sinus location and equipment design can affect transmission results.

Vasopressin attenuates TNF-mediated inflammation in the rat cremaster microcirculation.

PubMed

McMahon, Paul J; Proctor, Kenneth G

2009-09-01

Our previous study in a swine polytrauma model suggested that equieffective systemic pressor doses of arginine vasopressin (AVP) versus phenylephrine (PE) have differential effects on the systemic and cerebral microcirculation. The purpose of this study was to directly observe the effects of AVP versus PE on inflammatory changes evoked by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) in the skeletal muscle microcirculation. Seventy-five male rats (180-250 g) were anesthetized with isoforane, intubated and mechanically ventilated with 100% oxygen. The cremaster muscle microcirculation was prepared for intravital video microscopy while being suffused with a heated hetastarch-electrolyte solution. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled albumin (100 mg/kg) was administered intravenously (i.v.) before one of five protocols. In series 1 (n = 20), either AVP (0.2 U/mL) or its vehicle was added to the suffusate for 10 minutes, washed out for 30 minutes, then TNF was suffused (5 ng/mL) for 30 minutes. In series 2 (n = 16), the protocol was similar, except AVP (0.2 U/mL) or an equieffective dose of PE (0.04 mg/mL) was administered i.v. (4.5 mL/h) for 15 minutes before, during, and 45 minutes after TNF suffusion. In series 3 (n = 12), the protocol was similar to series 2, except venous hemorrhage preceded i.v. AVP or PE. In series 4 (n = 15), the protocol was similar to series 3, except an AVP antagonist (vaprisol, 1 mg/kg i.v.) or its vehicle was administered after hemorrhage. In the control series (n = 13), inflammation was evaluated either with a different suffusate (lactated Ringers instead of hetastarch solution), different antigen (histamine instead of TNF), or hemorrhage with no antigen. In series 1, the TNF-evoked increase in leukocyte infiltration (i.e., rolling), leukocyte activation (i.e., sticking), and macromolecular permeability (i.e., albumin extravasation) were attenuated with topical AVP versus vehicle (both p < 0.05), with no effect on venular blood flow (which determines sheer stress). In series 2, the TNF-evoked increase in infiltration, activation, and permeability were all attenuated, and arteriolar blood flow (which determines perfused capillary surface area and hydrostatic pressure) was reduced with i.v. AVP versus i.v. PE (all p < 0.05). In series 3, after hemorrhage to mean arterial pressure <50 mm Hg for 30 minutes, the TNF-evoked increase in infiltration and activation was attenuated, and arteriolar and venular blood flow were both reduced with i.v. AVP versus PE (all p < 0.05). In series 4, after hemorrhage, the TNF-evoked increase in leukocyte activation was potentiated with the vaprisol versus vehicle (p < 0.05) with no effect on arteriolar or venular blood flow. In series 5 (controls), suffusion with lactated Ringers' versus hetastarch solution more than doubled the TNF-evoked increase in activation (p < 0.05). (1) AVP can attenuate TNF-evoked leukocyte infiltration, activation or permeability changes in the skeletal muscle microcirculation. (2) The mechanism is probably receptor mediated and does not entirely depend on sheer stress in venules or Starling forces in capillaries. (3) The magnitude of this anti-inflammatory effect is influenced by several conditions, including volume status, the colloid or crystalloid suffusion fluid, and is possibly specific to the antigenic stimulus (TNF vs. histamine).

Teaching Surgical Procedures with Movies: Tips for High-quality Video Clips

PubMed Central

Jacquemart, Mathieu; Bouletreau, Pierre; Breton, Pierre; Mojallal, Ali

2016-01-01

Summary: Video must now be considered as a precious tool for learning surgery. However, the medium does present production challenges, and currently, quality movies are not always accessible. We developed a series of 7 surgical videos and made them available on a publicly accessible internet website. Our videos have been viewed by thousands of people worldwide. High-quality educational movies must respect strategic and technical points to be reliable. PMID:27757342

BETTER DUCT SYSTEMS FOR HOME HEATING AND COOLING.

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

ANDREWS,J.

This is a series of six guides intended to provide a working knowledge of residential heating and cooling duct systems, an understanding of the major issues concerning efficiency, comfort, health, and safety, and practical tips on installation and repair of duct systems. These guides are intended for use by contractors, system designers, advanced technicians, and other HVAC professionals. The first two guides are also intended to be accessible to the general reader.

Disruptive technology: new medical advances are troublesome for even the most successful health systems and innovator health companies.

PubMed

Michaelis, Lawrence; Vaul, Joanne; Chumer, Kathleen; Faul, Maureen; Sheehan, Lisa; DeCerce, Jack

2004-01-01

An independent expert panel conducted a multi-year research/education/advocacy initiative on the impact of the new drug-eluting stent technology. They conclude that this technology represents a "tipping point" in a series of transformative drugs and medical devices, often used in combination, and recommend that healthcare decision makers develop careful, data-based strategies to avoid the disruptiveness of these medical advances.

Progressing single biomolecule force spectroscopy measurements for the screening of DNA binding agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenke; Barbagallo, Romina; Madden, Claire; Roberts, Clive J.; Woolford, Alison; Allen, Stephanie

2005-10-01

Recent studies have indicated that the force-extension properties of single molecules of double stranded (ds) DNA are sensitive to the presence of small molecule DNA binding agents, and also to their mode of binding. These observations raise the possibility of using this approach as a highly sensitive tool for the screening of such agents. However, particularly for studies employing the atomic force microscope (AFM), several non-trivial barriers hinder the progress of this approach to the non-specialist arena and hence also the full realization of this possibility. In this paper, we therefore address a series of key reproducibility and metrological issues associated with this type of measurement. Specifically, we present an improved immobilization method that covalently anchors one end (5' end) of a dual labelled (5'-thiol, 3'-biotin) p53 DNA molecule onto a gold substrate via gold-thiol chemistry, whilst the biotinylated 3' end is available for 'pick-up' using a streptavidin modified AFM tip. We also show that co-surface immobilization of DNA with 6-mercapto-1-hexanol (MCH) can also lead to a further increase the measured contour length. We demonstrate the impact of these improved protocols through the observation of the cooperative transition plateau in a DNA fragment of approximately 118 bp, a significantly smaller fragment than previously investigated. The results of a comparative study of the effects of a model minor groove binder (Hoechst 33258) and an intercalating drug (proflavine), alone, as a mixture and under different buffer conditions, are also presented.

Isolation, Characterization, and Purification of Macrophages from Tissues Affected by Obesity-related Inflammation.

PubMed

Allen, Joselyn N; Dey, Adwitia; Nissly, Ruth; Fraser, James; Yu, Shan; Balandaram, Gayathri; Peters, Jeffrey M; Hankey-Giblin, Pamela A

2017-04-03

Obesity promotes a chronic inflammatory state that is largely mediated by tissue-resident macrophages as well as monocyte-derived macrophages. Diet-induced obesity (DIO) is a valuable model in studying the role of macrophage heterogeneity; however, adequate macrophage isolations are difficult to acquire from inflamed tissues. In this protocol, we outline the isolation steps and necessary troubleshooting guidelines derived from our studies for obtaining a suitable population of tissue-resident macrophages from mice following 18 weeks of high-fat (HFD) or high-fat/high-cholesterol (HFHCD) diet intervention. This protocol focuses on three hallmark tissues studied in obesity and atherosclerosis including the liver, white adipose tissues (WAT), and the aorta. We highlight how dualistic usage of flow cytometry can achieve a new dimension of isolation and characterization of tissue-resident macrophages. A fundamental section of this protocol addresses the intricacies underlying tissue-specific enzymatic digestions and macrophage isolation, and subsequent cell-surface antibody staining for flow cytometric analysis. This protocol addresses existing complexities underlying fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) and presents clarifications to these complexities so as to obtain broad range characterization from adequately sorted cell populations. Alternate enrichment methods are included for sorting cells, such as the dense liver, allowing for flexibility and time management when working with FACS. In brief, this protocol aids the researcher to evaluate macrophage heterogeneity from a multitude of inflamed tissues in a given study and provides insightful troubleshooting tips that have been successful for favorable cellular isolation and characterization of immune cells in DIO-mediated inflammation.

Clopidogrel (Plavix) desensitization: a case series.

PubMed

Camara, Miguel G; Almeda, Francis Q

2005-08-01

Clopidogrel (Plavix) is a thiopyridine that inhibits the ADP-dependent pathway for platelet activation and has been shown in numerous trials to be effective for a wide variety of patients with cardiovascular disease, particularly those who have undergone coronary stent implantation and who present with acute coronary syndromes. Allergic rashes are one of the common side effects of clopidogrel, which leads to its discontinuation. Type I (Gell and Combs classification) allergic reactions to drugs may be amenable to drug desensitization, allowing safe and prolonged use of the drug. This case series describes a protocol for clopidogrel desensitization over an 8-hr period using 15 doubling doses of clopidogrel given by mouth to achieve a maintenance dose of 75 mg a day. This case series suggests that patients who have had type I drug allergy to clopidogrel may be rapidly desensitized using this protocol. Further studies enrolling a larger number of patients are indicated to confirm the safety and efficacy of this regimen.

Evaluation of peak force of a manually operated chiropractic adjusting instrument with an adapter for use in animals.

PubMed

Duarte, Felipe Coutinho Kullmann; Kolberg, Carolina; Barros, Rodrigo R; Silva, Vivian G A; Gehlen, Günter; Vassoler, Jakson M; Partata, Wania A

2014-05-01

This study was designed to assess the peak force of a manually operated chiropractic adjusting instrument, the Activator Adjusting Instrument 4 (AAI 4), with an adapter for use in animals, which has a 3- to 4-fold smaller contact surface area than the original rubber tip. Peak force was determined by thrusting the AAI 4 with the adapter or the original rubber tip onto a load cell. First, the AAI 4 was applied perpendicularly by a doctor of chiropractic onto the load cell. Then, the AAI 4 was fixed in a rigid framework and applied to the load cell. This procedure was done to prevent any load on the load cell before the thrust impulse. In 2 situations, trials were performed with the AAI 4 at all force settings (settings I, II, III, and IV, minimum to maximum, respectively). A total of 50000 samples per second over a period of 3 seconds were collected. In 2 experimental protocols, the use of the adapter in the AAI 4 increased the peak force only with setting I. The new value was around 80% of the maximum value found for the AAI 4. Nevertheless, the peak force values of the AAI 4 with the adapter and with the original rubber tip in setting IV were similar. The adapter effectively determines the maximum peak force value at force setting I of AAI 4. Copyright © 2014 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Longitudinal eruptive and posteruptive tooth movements, studied on oblique and lateral cephalograms with implants.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoyun; Baumrind, Sheldon; Chen, Gui; Chen, Huizhong; Liang, Yi; Xu, Tianmin

2018-05-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the eruptive and posteruptive tooth displacements of untreated growing subjects longitudinally and the potential connections between posteruptive displacement of the maxillary and mandibular first molars and skeletal facial growth. The sample comprised 11 series of right 45° oblique cephalograms and lateral cephalograms of untreated children with metallic implants of the Björk type obtained from the archives of a growth study. Cephalograms generated at approximately 2-year intervals between the ages of 8.5 and 16 years were selected and traced. Superimpositions of serial tracings of oblique cephalograms on stable intraosseous implants were made to determine the displacements of buccal segment teeth in both arches, and superimpositions of serial tracings of lateral cephalograms were used to evaluate growth of the jaws. Continuous mesial tipping of the maxillary molars was observed from 8.5 to 16 years of age, averaging 8.2° ± 5.5° for the first molars and 18.3°± 8.5° for the second molars. Compared with the maxillary molars, the mandibular first molars showed less change in angulation except in the later mixed dentition when more than half of the subjects had accelerated forward tipping of the first molar in the late mixed dentition associated with migration into the leeway space. Average amounts of cumulative eruption from 8.5 to 16 years of age were 12.1 ± 2.1 mm downward and 3.8 ± 1.7 mm forward for the maxillary first molar. The mandibular first molar showed 8.6 ± 2.3 mm of eruption and 4.4 ± 1.9 mm of mesial migration. Peak velocity of vertical eruption of the maxillary and mandibular first molars corresponded to the skeletal vertical growth spurt. The maxillary canines and first premolars showed remarkable and continuous uprighting migration during eruption, averaging 9.5° ± 5.0° and 10.5° ± 6.7°, respectively. However, when they erupted into the occlusion, their changes in angulation reverted to forward tipping. The same tendency was also found in the mandibular canines and first premolars. Remarkable eruption and migration occur to the teeth of both arches during childhood and adolescence. Rates of first molar eruption during adolescence follow the general pattern of somatic growth. We infer that maintaining the original distal crown angulation of the maxillary molars may be an effective protocol for preservation of anchorage. Copyright © 2018 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Doppler-guided retrograde catheterization system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frazin, Leon J.; Vonesh, Michael J.; Chandran, Krishnan B.; Khasho, Fouad; Lanza, George M.; Talano, James V.; McPherson, David D.

1991-05-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate a Doppler guided catheterization system as an adjunctive or alternative methodology to overcome the disadvantages of left heart catheterization and angiography. These disadvantages include the biological effects of radiation and the toxic and volume effects of iodine contrast. Doppler retrograde guidance uses a 20 MHz circular pulsed Doppler crystal incorporated into the tip of a triple lumen multipurpose catheter and is advanced retrogradely using the directional flow information provided by the Doppler waveform. The velocity detection limits are either 1 m/second or 4 m/second depending upon the instrumentation. In a physiologic flow model of the human aortic arch, multiple data points revealed a positive wave form when flow was traveling toward the catheter tip indicating proper alignment for retrograde advancement. There was a negative wave form when flow was traveling away from the catheter tip if the catheter was in a branch or bent upon itself indicating improper catheter tip position for retrograde advancement. In a series of six dogs, the catheter was able to be accurately advanced from the femoral artery to the left ventricular chamber under Doppler signal guidance without the use of x-ray. The potential applications of a Doppler guided retrograde catheterization system include decreasing time requirements and allowing safer catheter guidance in patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease and suspected aortic dissection. The Doppler system may allow left ventricular pressure monitoring in the intensive care unit without the need for x-ray and it may allow left sided contrast echocardiography. With pulse velocity detection limits of 4 m/second, this system may allow catheter direction and passage into the aortic root and left ventricle in patients with aortic stenosis. A modification of the Doppler catheter may include transponder technology which would allow precise catheter tip localization once the catheter tip is placed in the aortic root. Such technology may conceivably assist in allowing selective coronary catheterization. These studies have demonstrated that Doppler guided retrograde catheterization provides an accurate method to catheterization the aortic root and left ventricular chamber without x-ray. In humans, it may prove useful in a variety of settings including the development of invasive ultrasonic diagnostic and therapeutic technology.

Compositional mining of multiple object API protocols through state abstraction.

PubMed

Dai, Ziying; Mao, Xiaoguang; Lei, Yan; Qi, Yuhua; Wang, Rui; Gu, Bin

2013-01-01

API protocols specify correct sequences of method invocations. Despite their usefulness, API protocols are often unavailable in practice because writing them is cumbersome and error prone. Multiple object API protocols are more expressive than single object API protocols. However, the huge number of objects of typical object-oriented programs poses a major challenge to the automatic mining of multiple object API protocols: besides maintaining scalability, it is important to capture various object interactions. Current approaches utilize various heuristics to focus on small sets of methods. In this paper, we present a general, scalable, multiple object API protocols mining approach that can capture all object interactions. Our approach uses abstract field values to label object states during the mining process. We first mine single object typestates as finite state automata whose transitions are annotated with states of interacting objects before and after the execution of the corresponding method and then construct multiple object API protocols by composing these annotated single object typestates. We implement our approach for Java and evaluate it through a series of experiments.

Compositional Mining of Multiple Object API Protocols through State Abstraction

PubMed Central

Mao, Xiaoguang; Qi, Yuhua; Wang, Rui; Gu, Bin

2013-01-01

API protocols specify correct sequences of method invocations. Despite their usefulness, API protocols are often unavailable in practice because writing them is cumbersome and error prone. Multiple object API protocols are more expressive than single object API protocols. However, the huge number of objects of typical object-oriented programs poses a major challenge to the automatic mining of multiple object API protocols: besides maintaining scalability, it is important to capture various object interactions. Current approaches utilize various heuristics to focus on small sets of methods. In this paper, we present a general, scalable, multiple object API protocols mining approach that can capture all object interactions. Our approach uses abstract field values to label object states during the mining process. We first mine single object typestates as finite state automata whose transitions are annotated with states of interacting objects before and after the execution of the corresponding method and then construct multiple object API protocols by composing these annotated single object typestates. We implement our approach for Java and evaluate it through a series of experiments. PMID:23844378

Prognosis of atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) treated with multimodal therapy protocols. Report of our series.

PubMed

Valencia-Moya, Alfonso; González-García, Laura; Ros-López, Bienvenido; Acha-García, Tomás; Weil-Lara, Bernardo; Obando-Pacheco, Pablo; Arráez-Sánchez, Miguel Ángel

2016-01-01

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) of the central nervous system are rare, very aggressive embryological tumors, typically diagnosed in young patients and having a low survival rate after diagnosis. The aim of this study was to emphasize, based on the latest results in the literature, the need for protocols for multidisciplinary treatment in these patients. We report our series of 3 cases treated, diagnosed and followed up between 2009 and 2014. They were treated with multimodal therapy protocols (Rhabdoid SIOP-2007 and European Rhabdoid Registry EU-RHAB-2010). In addition, we carried out a literature review. Two of our 3 cases (supratentorial and spinal tumors) did not show any progression of the disease after long follow-up, in contrast with most of the cases available in the literature. The second patient had a shorter survival. Patient age at the time of diagnosis, supratentorial location of the mass and fewer complications with adjuvant treatments seem to be factors yielding good prognosis for AT/RT tumors. In agreement with the latest international protocols, multidisciplinary treatment is the ideal treatment, consisting of radiotherapy and chemotherapy after complete tumor resection. Copyright © 2014 Sociedad Española de Neurocirugía. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Lakes and reservoirs—Guidelines for study design and sampling

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

2015-09-29

The “National Field Manual for the Collection of Water-Quality Data” (NFM) is an online report with separately published chapters that provides the protocols and guidelines by which U.S. Geological Survey personnel obtain the data used to assess the quality of the Nation’s surface-water and groundwater resources. Chapter A10 reviews limnological principles, describes the characteristics that distinguish lakes from reservoirs, and provides guidance for developing temporal and spatial sampling strategies and data-collection approaches to be used in lake and reservoir environmental investigations.Within this chapter are references to other chapters of the NFM that provide more detailed guidelines related to specific topics and more detailed protocols for the quality assurance and assessment of the lake and reservoir data. Protocols and procedures to address and document the quality of lake and reservoir investigations are adapted from, or referenced to, the protocols and standard operating procedures contained in related chapters of this NFM.Before 2017, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) “National Field Manual for the Collection of Water-Quality Data” (NFM) chapters were released in the USGS Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations series. Effective in 2018, new and revised NFM chapters are being released in the USGS Techniques and Methods series; this series change does not affect the content and format of the NFM. More information is in the general introduction to the NFM (USGS Techniques and Methods, book 9, chapter A0, 2018) at https://doi.org/10.3133/tm9A0. The authoritative current versions of NFM chapters are available in the USGS Publications Warehouse at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov. Comments, questions, and suggestions related to the NFM can be addressed to nfm-owq@usgs.gov.

Arthroscopic synovectomy, irrigation, and debridement for treatment of septic ankle arthrosis: a systematic review and case series.

PubMed

Mankovecky, Michael R; Roukis, Thomas S

2014-01-01

Septic arthrosis of the ankle is a rare, often devastating, infection, with a high potential for morbidity and mortality. Delay in treatment can lead to cartilage erosion, painful synovitis, and osteomyelitis. Septic ankle arthrosis deserves prompt recognition and intervention. However, quality, sound, protocol-directed arthroscopic treatment of septic ankle arthrosis of the ankle has not yet been reported. We performed a systematic review of the electronic databases and other relevant peer-reviewed sources to determine the outcomes and treatment protocols associated with septic ankle arthrosis treated with arthroscopic synovectomy, irrigation, and debridement. Nine studies, involving a total of 15 ankles, met our inclusion criteria. In addition, we present the short-term outcomes of a protocol-driven arthroscopic synovial biopsy, deep culture procurement, synovectomy, irrigation, and debridement approach for 8 ankles (8 patients). To our knowledge, this would be the largest individual case series specific to arthroscopic treatment of septic ankle arthrosis. The most common infectious organism reported in the systematic review and in our case series was methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Arthroscopic synovectomy, irrigation, and debridement represents an acceptable treatment method for septic ankle arthrosis and demonstrated outcomes similar to the more traditional open approach, with fewer complications. Additional, appropriately weighted, randomized controlled studies with long-term follow-up are warranted. Copyright © 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Implant salvage in breast reconstruction with severe peri-prosthetic infection.

PubMed

Meybodi, Farid; Sedaghat, Negin; French, James; Keighley, Caitlin; Mitchell, David; Elder, Elisabeth

2017-12-01

Although treatment of mild peri-prosthetic infection in implant-based breast reconstruction results in high rates of resolution, successful management of severe peri-prosthetic infection remains a significant challenge. In this case series, a protocol utilizing a novel dressing - negative pressure wound therapy with instillation (NPWTi) - for the management of severe peri-prosthetic infection in breast reconstruction patients is described. This is an operative technique involving: (i) explantation of the breast prosthesis and application of the NPWTi dressing to the implant pocket; (ii) change of the NPWTi dressing; (iii) intraoperative fluid/tissue cultures; and (iv) reimplantation of the breast prosthesis when cultures yield no growth. This protocol was utilized in six cases of severe peri-prosthetic infection in five patients with immediate breast reconstruction for breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery. Cultures of fluid/tissue grew typical and/or unusual organisms. Only one case did not yield an organism. The hospital length of stay upon completion of the protocol ranged from 7-16 days (mean, 12 days). Successful implant salvage was achieved in five of six cases. The protocol was aborted in one case to allow for completion of adjuvant chemotherapy. Early findings from this case series suggest that in cases of severe peri-prosthetic infection this novel operative protocol may result in successful implant salvage for breast reconstruction patients. Further studies are needed to more fully elaborate the role of NPWTi to achieve implant salvage in challenging cases of peri-prosthetic infection. © 2015 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Assessment of Airborne Instrument Uncertainty via Measurement Comparisons Conducted During the DC3 and SEAC4RS Field Campaigns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silverman, M. L.; Chen, G.; Shook, M.

2016-12-01

Airborne field campaigns have long understood the importance of well-defined measurement uncertainties and their impact on scientific research. Measurement comparisons are an effective way to assess the uncertainty of different techniques as well as gain insight into instrument performance. As part of the NASA DC3 (Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry) airborne field campaign, there were several wing-tip-to-wing-tip formation flight segments designed for measurement comparison of the instruments onboard the NASA DC-8 and NSF/NCAR Gulfstream-V aircraft. This provides the opportunity to evaluate the consistency between multiple measurements of the same species/parameters on different platforms and based on different measurement techniques. The DC-8 aircraft was also instrumented with duplicate measurements of the same species, allowing for intraplatform comparisons. The NASA DC-8 was also used during the NASA SEAC4RS (Studies of Emission and Atmospheric Composition, Clouds, and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys) airborne field campaign. While no wing-tip to wing-tip flights were flown, several instruments measuring the same species were aboard the DC-8 providing intraplatform comparisons. Time series and correlations are produced to show the relative agreement between the measurements both on a daily basis and over the course of the five inter-comparison days. We have also used a data-driven approach to analyze the instrument precisions as an important part of measurement uncertainty assessment. By conducting these analyses we provide insight to users on the quality of the measurements.

Tunnel widening prevention with the allo-Achilles tendon graft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Surgical tips and short term followup

PubMed Central

Suh, Dong Won; Han, Seung Beom; Yeo, Woo Jin; Lee, Won Hee; Kwon, Jae Ho; Kyung, Bong Soo

2017-01-01

Background: Tunnel widening (TW) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can be a serious complication, and there is controversy over how to prevent it. This study aimed to suggest surgical approaches to prevent TW using an allo-Achilles tendon graft, and then to evaluate TW after these surgical tips were applied. Materials and Methods: Sixty two patients underwent ACL reconstruction with an allo-Achilles tendon graft. Four surgical approaches were used: Making a tibial tunnel by bone impaction, intraarticular reamer application, bone portion application for the femoral tunnel, and an additional bone plug application for the tibial tunnel. After more than 1-year, followup radiographs including anteroposterior and lateral views were taken in 29 patients encompassing thirty knees. The diameter of the tunnels at postoperation day 1 (POD1) and at followup was measured and compared. Results: In 18 knees (60%), there were no visible femoral tunnel margins on the radiographs at POD1 or followup. In the other 12 cases, which had visible femoral tunnel margins on followup radiographs, the mean femoral tunnel diameter was 8.6 mm. In the tibial tunnel, the mean diameters did not increase on all three levels (proximal, middle, and distal), and there was no statistically significant difference between the diameters at POD1 and followup. Conclusion: The suggested tips for surgery involving an allo-Achilles tendon graft can effectively prevent TW after ACL reconstruction according to this case series. These surgical tips can prevent TW. PMID:28400663

Sub-millisecond ligand probing of cell receptors with multiple solution exchange

PubMed Central

Sylantyev, Sergiy; Rusakov, Dmitri A

2013-01-01

The accurate knowledge of receptor kinetics is crucial to our understanding of cell signal transduction in general and neural function in particular. The classical technique of probing membrane receptors on a millisecond scale involves placing a recording micropipette with a membrane patch in front of a double-barrel (θ-glass) application pipette mounted on a piezo actuator. Driven by electric pulses, the actuator can rapidly shift the θ-glass pipette tip, thus exposing the target receptors to alternating ligand solutions. However, membrane patches survive for only a few minutes, thus normally restricting such experiments to a single-application protocol. In order to overcome this deficiency, we have introduced pressurized supply microcircuits in the θ-glass channels, thus enabling repeated replacement of application solutions within 10–15 s. this protocol, which has been validated in our recent studies and takes 20–60 min to implement, allows the characterization of ligand-receptor interactions with high sensitivity, thereby also enabling a powerful paired-sample statistical design. PMID:23744290

Six years' experience of tolerance induction in renal transplantation using stem cell therapy.

PubMed

Vanikar, Aruna V; Trivedi, Hargovind L; Thakkar, Umang G

2018-02-01

Tolerance induction (TI) has been attempted with chimerism/clonal deletion. We report results of TI protocol (TIP) using stem cell therapy (SCT) included adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSC) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) in 10 living-donor related renal transplantation (LDRT) patients under non-myeloablative conditioning with Bortezomib, Methylprednisone, rabbit-anti-thymoglobulin and Rituximab, without using conventional immunosuppression. Transplantation was performed following acceptable lymphocyte cross-match, flow cross-match, single antigen assay and negative mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). Monitoring included serum creatinine (SCr), donor specific antibodies (DSA) and MLR. Protocol biopsies were planned after 100days and yearly in willing patients. Rescue immunosuppression was planned for rejection/DSA/positive MLR. Over mean 6±0.37year follow-up patient survival was 80% and death-censored graft survival was 90%. Mean SCr was 1.44±0.41mg/dL. This is the first clinical report of sustained TI in LDRT for 6years using SCT. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessing Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Isolated Mitochondria from Various Mouse Tissues Using Seahorse XF96 Analyzer.

PubMed

Iuso, Arcangela; Repp, Birgit; Biagosch, Caroline; Terrile, Caterina; Prokisch, Holger

2017-01-01

Working with isolated mitochondria is the gold standard approach to investigate the function of the electron transport chain in tissues, free from the influence of other cellular factors. In this chapter, we outline a detailed protocol to measure the rate of oxygen consumption (OCR) with the high-throughput analyzer Seahorse XF96. More importantly, this protocol wants to provide practical tips for handling many different samples at once, and take a real advantage of using a high-throughput system. As a proof of concept, we have isolated mitochondria from brain, heart, liver, muscle, kidney, and lung of a wild-type mouse, and measured basal respiration (State II), ADP-stimulated respiration (State III), non-ADP-stimulated respiration (State IV o ), and FCCP-stimulated respiration (State III u ) using respiratory substrates specific to the respiratory chain complex I (RCCI) and complex II (RCCII). Mitochondrial purification and Seahorse runs were performed in less than eight working hours.

Correlative and integrated light and electron microscopy of in-resin GFP fluorescence, used to localise diacylglycerol in mammalian cells

PubMed Central

Peddie, Christopher J.; Blight, Ken; Wilson, Emma; Melia, Charlotte; Marrison, Jo; Carzaniga, Raffaella; Domart, Marie-Charlotte; O׳Toole, Peter; Larijani, Banafshe; Collinson, Lucy M.

2014-01-01

Fluorescence microscopy of GFP-tagged proteins is a fundamental tool in cell biology, but without seeing the structure of the surrounding cellular space, functional information can be lost. Here we present a protocol that preserves GFP and mCherry fluorescence in mammalian cells embedded in resin with electron contrast to reveal cellular ultrastructure. Ultrathin in-resin fluorescence (IRF) sections were imaged simultaneously for fluorescence and electron signals in an integrated light and scanning electron microscope. We show, for the first time, that GFP is stable and active in resin sections in vacuo. We applied our protocol to study the subcellular localisation of diacylglycerol (DAG), a modulator of membrane morphology and membrane dynamics in nuclear envelope assembly. We show that DAG is localised to the nuclear envelope, nucleoplasmic reticulum and curved tips of the Golgi apparatus. With these developments, we demonstrate that integrated imaging is maturing into a powerful tool for accurate molecular localisation to structure. PMID:24637200

Preparation and Fluorescent Analysis of Plant Metaphase Chromosomes.

PubMed

Schwarzacher, Trude

2016-01-01

Good preparations are essential for informative analysis of both somatic and meiotic chromosomes, cytogenetics, and cell divisions. Fluorescent chromosome staining allows even small chromosomes to be visualized and counted, showing their morphology. Aneuploidies and polyploidies can be established for species, populations, or individuals while changes occurring in breeding lines during hybridization or tissue culture and transformation protocols can be assessed. The process of division can be followed during mitosis and meiosis including pairing and chiasma distribution, as well as DNA organization and structure during the evolution of chromosomes can be studied. This chapter presents protocols for pretreatment and fixation of material, including tips of how to grow plants to get good and healthy meristem with many divisions. The chromosome preparation technique is described using proteolytic enzymes, but acids can be used instead. Chromosome slide preparations are suitable for fluorochrome staining for fast screening (described in the chapter) or fluorescent in situ hybridization (see Schwarzacher and Heslop-Harrison, In situ hybridization. BIOS Scientific Publishers, Oxford, 2000).

Microneedle-based analysis of the micromechanics of the metaphase spindle assembled in Xenopus laevis egg extracts

PubMed Central

Shimamoto, Yuta; Kapoor, Tarun M.

2014-01-01

SUMMARY To explain how micron-sized cellular structures generate and respond to forces we need to characterize their micromechanical properties. Here we provide a protocol to build and use a dual force-calibrated microneedle-based set-up to quantitatively analyze the micromechanics of a metaphase spindle assembled in Xenopus laevis egg extracts. This cell-free extract system allows for controlled biochemical perturbations of spindle components. We describe how the microneedles are prepared and how they can be used to apply and measure forces. A multi-mode imaging system allows tracking of microtubules, chromosomes and needle tips. This set-up can be used to analyze the viscoelastic properties of the spindle on time-scales ranging from minutes to sub-seconds. A typical experiment, along with data analysis, is also detailed. We anticipate that our protocol can be readily extended to analyze the micromechanics of other cellular structures assembled in cell-free extracts. The entire procedure can take 3-4 days. PMID:22538847

Digital image processing techniques for the analysis of fuel sprays global pattern

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakaria, Rami; Bryanston-Cross, Peter; Timmerman, Brenda

2017-12-01

We studied the fuel atomization process of two fuel injectors to be fitted in a new small rotary engine design. The aim was to improve the efficiency of the engine by optimizing the fuel injection system. Fuel sprays were visualised by an optical diagnostic system. Images of fuel sprays were produced under various testing conditions, by changing the line pressure, nozzle size, injection frequency, etc. The atomisers were a high-frequency microfluidic dispensing system and a standard low flow-rate fuel injector. A series of image processing procedures were developed in order to acquire information from the laser-scattering images. This paper presents the macroscopic characterisation of Jet fuel (JP8) sprays. We observed the droplet density distribution, tip velocity, and spray-cone angle against line-pressure and nozzle-size. The analysis was performed for low line-pressure (up to 10 bar) and short injection period (1-2 ms). Local velocity components were measured by applying particle image velocimetry (PIV) on double-exposure images. The discharge velocity was lower in the micro dispensing nozzle sprays and the tip penetration slowed down at higher rates compared to the gasoline injector. The PIV test confirmed that the gasoline injector produced sprays with higher velocity elements at the centre and the tip regions.

Investigation of Shock Diffusers at Mach Number 1.85. 2 - Projecting Double-Shock Cones

DTIC Science & Technology

1947-06-17

pitot - static rake located as shown in figure 1(a). Total-pressure recoveries were measured for a series of tip projections varied in minimum steps...is shown. The position of the pitot -static rake with which these distributions were .measured is shown in figure 1(a). The data points correspond...Schroeder SUMMARY An Investigation has "been undertaken in the Cleveland 18- by 18-Inch, supersonic tunnel to determine the total-pressure

Design of a 1500 Ft/Sec, Transonic, High-through-Flow, Single-Stage Axial-Flow Compressor with Low Hub/Tip Ratio

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-10-01

aerodynamic flow field pertaining to the design point is defined on twenty-one stream surfaces, and radial and meridional distributions of significant...full radial equilibrium analysis of the compressor flow field using the streamline curvature solution technique. Through a series of iterations, it...one can assume the blade geometry, solving for the equilibriwn flow field using specified relative flow aigles as input to the aerodynamic program. In

Mayolenes: Labile defensive lipids from the glandular hairs of a caterpillar (Pieris rapae)

PubMed Central

Smedley, Scott R.; Schroeder, Frank C.; Weibel, Douglas B.; Meinwald, Jerrold; Lafleur, Katie A.; Renwick, J. Alan; Rutowski, Ronald; Eisner, Thomas

2002-01-01

Larvae of the European cabbage butterfly, Pieris rapae (Pieridae), are beset with glandular hairs, bearing droplets of a clear oily secretion at their tip. The fluid consists primarily of a series of chemically labile, unsaturated lipids, the mayolenes, which are derived from 11-hydroxylinolenic acid. In bioassays with the ant Crematogaster lineolata, the secretion was shown to be potently deterrent, indicating that the fluid plays a defensive role in nature. PMID:11997469

How to conduct a workshop on medical writing: Tips, advice and experience sharing.

PubMed

Rathore, Farooq Azam; Mansoor, Sahibzada Nasir

2015-06-01

Medical writing has become an essential skill for anybody in academia and engaged in teaching. Workshops on medical writing are an effective way to teach the essential skills of medical writing to students and faculty members. There is a huge demand for these workshops all around the globe. Usually there is no curriculum of medical writing for the undergraduates or dedicated structured training sessions for the faculty members. One of the authors won an Author AID grant to conduct a series of workshops on medical writing. Eight workshops were conducted in three months, benefitting more than 200 students and faculty staff. We share our experience of holding this successful series of workshops with the aim that it might serve as a guide for researchers and faculty members who are eager to share and transfer their skills and knowledge. We also offer lessons learnt during this educational activity, tips to improve the quality and delivery of the content with limited resources and maximizing the impact. Experienced medical writers need to conduct these workshops to transfer their skills and to facilitate their colleagues and students to become better medical writers. Planning, rehearsal, motivation, resource management, good team work, audience analysis and feedback can make a workshop successful. Well prepared workshop content delivered in an interactive way with a variety of activities makes the workshop an engaging and interesting educational activity.

Regenerative endodontics.

PubMed

Simon, S; Smith, A J

2014-03-01

Significant advances in our understanding of the biological processes involved in tooth development and repair at the cellular and molecular levels have underpinned the newly emerging area of regenerative endodontics. Development of treatment protocols based on exploiting the natural wound healing properties of the dental pulp and applying tissue engineering principles has allowed reporting of case series showing preservation of tissue vitality and apexogenesis. To review current case series reporting regenerative endodontics. Current treatment approaches tend to stimulate more reparative than regenerative responses in respect of the new tissue generated, which often does not closely resemble the physiological structure of dentine-pulp. However, despite these biological limitations, such techniques appear to offer significant promise for improved treatment outcomes. Improved biological outcomes will likely emerge from the many experimental studies being reported and will further contribute to improvements in clinical treatment protocols.

Secure Data Aggregation Protocol for M2M Communications

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-03-24

networking and collaboration among various devices has experienced tremendous growth. To adapt to the trend, the concept of Internet of Things ( IoT ... IoTs ): Models, Algorithms, and Implementations, accepted Title: “Privacy-Preserving Time-Series Data Aggregation for Internet of Things ” Date...public release; distribution is unlimited. (5) Privacy-Preserving Time-Series Data Aggregation for Internet of Things Abstract In recent years, the

Mathematical Sciences Division 1992 Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-10-01

statistical theory that underlies modern signal analysis . There is a strong emphasis on stochastic processes and time series , particularly those which...include optimal resource planning and real- time scheduling of stochastic shop-floor processes. Scheduling systems will be developed that can adapt to...make forecasts for the length-of-service time series . Protocol analysis of these sessions will be used to idenify relevant contextual features and to

Correlation and Stacking of Relative Paleointensity and Oxygen Isotope Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lurcock, P. C.; Channell, J. E.; Lee, D.

2012-12-01

The transformation of a depth-series into a time-series is routinely implemented in the geological sciences. This transformation often involves correlation of a depth-series to an astronomically calibrated time-series. Eyeball tie-points with linear interpolation are still regularly used, although these have the disadvantages of being non-repeatable and not based on firm correlation criteria. Two automated correlation methods are compared: the simulated annealing algorithm (Huybers and Wunsch, 2004) and the Match protocol (Lisiecki and Lisiecki, 2002). Simulated annealing seeks to minimize energy (cross-correlation) as "temperature" is slowly decreased. The Match protocol divides records into intervals, applies penalty functions that constrain accumulation rates, and minimizes the sum of the squares of the differences between two series while maintaining the data sequence in each series. Paired relative paleointensity (RPI) and oxygen isotope records, such as those from IODP Site U1308 and/or reference stacks such as LR04 and PISO, are warped using known warping functions, and then the un-warped and warped time-series are correlated to evaluate the efficiency of the correlation methods. Correlations are performed in tandem to simultaneously optimize RPI and oxygen isotope data. Noise spectra are introduced at differing levels to determine correlation efficiency as noise levels change. A third potential method, known as dynamic time warping, involves minimizing the sum of distances between correlated point pairs across the whole series. A "cost matrix" between the two series is analyzed to find a least-cost path through the matrix. This least-cost path is used to nonlinearly map the time/depth of one record onto the depth/time of another. Dynamic time warping can be expanded to more than two dimensions and used to stack multiple time-series. This procedure can improve on arithmetic stacks, which often lose coherent high-frequency content during the stacking process.

Tipping point analysis of seismological data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Livina, Valerie N.; Tolkova, Elena

2014-05-01

We apply the tipping point toolbox [1-7] to study sensor data of pressure variations and vertical velocity of the sea floor after two seismic events: 21 October 2010, M6.9, D10km (California) and 11 March 2011, M9.0, D30km (Japan). One type of datasets was measured by nano-resolution pressure sensor [8], while the other, for comparison, by a co-located ocean bottom seismometer. Both sensors registered the seismic wave, and we investigated the early warning and detection signals of the wave arrival for possible application with a remote and cabled tsunami warning detector network (NOAA DART system and Japan Trench Tsunami Observation System). We study the early warning and detection signals of the wave arrival using methodology that combines degenerate fingerprinting and potential analysis techniques for anticipation, detection and forecast of tipping points in a dynamical system. Degenerate fingerprinting indicator is a dynamically derived lag-1 autocorrelation, ACF (or, alternatively, short-range scaling exponent of Detrended Fluctuation Analysis, DFA [1]), which shows short-term memory in a series. When such values rise monotonically, this indicates an upcoming transition or bifurcation in a series and can be used for early warning signals analysis. The potential analysis detects a transition or bifurcation in a series at the time when it happens, which is illustrated in a special contour plot mapping the potential dynamics of the system [2-6]. The methodology has been extensively tested on artificial data and on various geophysical, ecological and industrial sensor datasets [2-5,7], and proved to be applicable to trajectories of dynamical systems of arbitrary origin [9]. In this seismological application, we have obtained early warning signals in the described series using ACF- and DFA-indicators and detected the Rayleigh wave arrival in the potential contour plots. In the case of the event in 2010, the early warning signal starts appearing about 2 min before the first peak of the Rayleigh train is detected by the sensor, whereas in the case of event of 2011, the early warning signal appears closer to the peak arrival, within 1 min. The different strength of early warning signals of the Rayleigh trains may be due to different depths of the events (10 and 30 km), which we plan to test in further analysis. References: [1] Livina and Lenton, GRL 2007; [2] Livina et al, Climate of the Past 2010; [3] Livina et al, Climate Dynamics 2011; [4] Livina et al, Physica A 2012; [5] Livina and Lenton, Cryosphere 2013; [6] Livina et al, Physica A 2013; [7] Livina et al, Journal of Civil Structural Health Monitoring, in press; [8] Tolkova and Schaad, arXiv:1401.0096v1; [9] Vaz Martins et al, PRE 2010.

Gerbera micropropagation.

PubMed

Cardoso, Jean C; Teixeira da Silva, Jaime A

2013-12-01

Gerbera jamesonii (gerbera) is an important cut-flower in the global floricultural industry. Micropropagation is the main system used to clonally propagate gerbera in vitro resulting in the production of millions of plantlets each year. Numerous types of explants and protocols for micropropagation have been established and used for gerbera. Shoot tips are the commonly used explant while adventitious shoot induction from the capitulum is also a popular method. Most papers in the literature have focused on testing the influence of different types and combinations of plant growth regulators with the aim of improving the regeneration and multiplication stage of one or few cultivars. Genotype is one of the most influential factors on the response of gerbera in vitro. Despite this, no successful universal protocol has yet been developed for multiple cultivars, limiting the usefulness of current protocols for commercial biotechnology labs. Slow-growing endogenous bacteria are one of the most important problems in gerbera micropropagation but require more studies on control and prevention. Individual shoots are normally easy to root, usually in excess of 90% of plantlets, but the acclimatization stage requires improvements and new technologies to increase the survival of plants. Epigenetic variations in micropropagated gerbera are frequently observed only with high concentrations of cytokinins in the culture medium but somaclonal variation is rare. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A protocol for rheological characterization of hydrogels for tissue engineering strategies.

PubMed

Zuidema, Jonathan M; Rivet, Christopher J; Gilbert, Ryan J; Morrison, Faith A

2014-07-01

Hydrogels are studied extensively for many tissue engineering applications, and their mechanical properties influence both cellular and tissue compatibility. However, it is difficult to compare the mechanical properties of hydrogels between studies due to a lack of continuity between rheological protocols. This study outlines a straightforward protocol to accurately determine hydrogel equilibrium modulus and gelation time using a series of rheological tests. These protocols are applied to several hydrogel systems used within tissue engineering applications: agarose, collagen, fibrin, Matrigel™, and methylcellulose. The protocol is outlined in four steps: (1) Time sweep to determine the gelation time of the hydrogel. (2) Strain sweep to determine the linear-viscoelastic region of the hydrogel with respect to strain. (3) Frequency sweep to determine the linear equilibrium modulus plateau of the hydrogel. (4) Time sweep with values obtained from strain and frequency sweeps to accurately report the equilibrium moduli and gelation time. Finally, the rheological characterization protocol was evaluated using a composite Matrigel™-methylcellulose hydrogel blend whose mechanical properties were previously unknown. The protocol described herein provides a standardized approach for proper analysis of hydrogel rheological properties. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Brokering Protocol for Agent-Based Grid Resource Discovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Jaeyong; Sim, Kwang Mong

Resource discovery is one of the basic and key aspects in grid resource management, which aims at searching for the suitable resources for satisfying the requirement of users' applications. This paper introduces an agent-based brokering protocol which connects users and providers in grid environments. In particular, it focuses on addressing the problem of connecting users and providers. A connection algorithm that matches advertisements of users and requests from providers based on pre-specified multiple criteria is devised and implemented. The connection algorithm mainly consists of four stages: selection, evaluation, filtering, and recommendation. A series of experiments that were carried out in executing the protocol, and favorable results were obtained.

Quantum anonymous ranking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei; Wen, Qiao-Yan; Liu, Bin; Su, Qi; Qin, Su-Juan; Gao, Fei

2014-03-01

Anonymous ranking is a kind of privacy-preserving ranking whereby each of the involved participants can correctly and anonymously get the rankings of his data. It can be utilized to solve many practical problems, such as anonymously ranking the students' exam scores. We investigate the issue of how quantum mechanics can be of use in maintaining the anonymity of the participants in multiparty ranking and present a series of quantum anonymous multiparty, multidata ranking protocols. In each of these protocols, a participant can get the correct rankings of his data and nobody else can match the identity to his data. Furthermore, the security of these protocols with respect to different kinds of attacks is proved.

Lindgren during EVA 32

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-10-28

ISS045E082789 (10/28/2015) --- NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren is photographed through a window during a night pass while on his first spacewalk on Oct. 28, 2015. Lindgren and NASA astronaut Scott Kelly worked outside for seven hours and 16 minutes on a series of tasks to service and upgrade the International Space Station. They wrapped a dark matter detection experiment in a thermal blanket, lubricated the tip of the Canadarm2 robotic arm and then routed power and data cables for a future docking port.

View of Kelly outside the A/L during EVA 32

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-10-28

ISS045E082968 (10/28/2015) --- NASA astronaut Scott Kelly is photographed just outside the airlock during his first ever spacewalk on Oct 28, 2015. Kelly and NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren worked outside for seven hours and 16 minutes on a series of tasks to service and upgrade the International Space Station. They wrapped a dark matter detection experiment in a thermal blanket, lubricated the tip of the Canadarm2 robotic arm and then routed power and data cables for a future docking port.

Kelly takes a Self-Portrait during EVA 32

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-10-28

ISS045E082998 (10/28/2015) --- NASA astronaut Scott Kelly snaps a quick space selfie during his first ever spacewalk on Oct 28, 2015. Kelly and NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren worked outside for seven hours and 16 minutes on a series of tasks to service and upgrade the International Space Station. They wrapped a dark matter detection experiment in a thermal blanket, lubricated the tip of the Canadarm2 robotic arm and then routed power and data cables for a future docking port.

Finite Element Analysis of Multilayered and Functionally Gradient Tribological Coatings With Measured Material Properties (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

gradient coatings with diamond like carbon (DLC) coating on 440C stainless steel substrate were assumed as a series of perfectly bonded layers with...resistance and low friction. Ti1-xCx (0≤ x ≤1) gradient coatings with diamond like carbon (DLC) coating on 440C stainless steel substrate were...indenter tip was used for the FEA model. Each coating sample consists of 1 μm thick coating and 440C stainless steel substrate. The area function for

Writing for professional publication. Part 2: Subject matter.

PubMed

Fowler, John

Motivation is the first step in writing for professional publication: the next question is, what should you write about? Whatever your area of practice or level of experience, your writing will be suitable for one of the wealth of journals covering all aspects of healthcare and nursing. In this second part of a series of articles, John Fowler, an experienced nursing lecturer and author, presents some tips and suggestions to inspire you as you take your first steps on the road to writing for professional publication.

Writing for professional publication. Part 1: Motivation.

PubMed

Fowler, Dr John

Writing for professional publication can be a daunting prospect, but, with a little effort and the right motivation, it can be a rewarding and career-enhancing experience. And the good news is, it's not as difficult as it may sound. In this first part of a series of articles on writing for professional publication, John Fowler, an experienced nursing lecturer and author, discusses perhaps the most important factor in seeing your work published: motivation. Forthcoming issues will explore different aspects of publication and include advice and practical tips.

[Audit of artificial nutrition in an intensive care unit].

PubMed

Blesa Malpica, A L; Salaverría Garzón, I; Prado López, L M; Simón García, M J; Reta Pérez, O; Ramos Polo, J

2001-01-01

To study compliance with an artificial nutrition protocol at an Intensive Care Unit. During a second stage and after introducing the modifications considered appropriate in the protocol, to verify its implementation and compare both series. REFERENCE POPULATION: All patients with artificial nutrition support were included. Artificial nutrition (AN) was deemed to be the dispensation of commercial preparations for enteral nutrition, formulas with amino acids and glucose and the parenteral provision of fat, including propofol in this case, even where it was the only source of energy. The provision of crystalloid solutions was not considered to be AN. The period of observation was two months in both cases. The provision of AN to all such patients was systematically recorded on a daily basis. After analysis of the first series, the members at the unit agreed to increase the nitrogen provision. A second series was recorded, with the data being collected for patients with AN during a similar period. The study of the first series revealed the provisions of energy and nitrogen were below theoretical levels (both in the corrected Harris-Benedict test and at the fixed prescription of 25 kcal/kg). In the second series, there was greater agreement between the theoretical values and the amounts actually received. The deviation in energy and nitrogen was significantly less in the second series. And although the total nitrogen load per patient did not reveal any differences, there were discrepancies in the daily provision per patient. On most days, the diet provided covered over 75% of the energy requirements. With parenteral nutrition on its own or in combination with enteral nutrition, the requirements of energy and nitrogen were exceeded. There were no differences between the two series. The type of provision was enteral on 55% of the days and parenteral on 18%. There was no difference in the type of provision between the two series, although there was a difference in the type of diet administered in that the second series saw a significant increase in the provision of hyperproteic diets, both enterally and through patenteral formulations, rising from 9-13 grammes to 18-20 grammes of nitrogen. Using the enteral route on its own, there was a discreet increase in the energy load in the second series, but this did not occur in the other types of provision. Both series revealed over-nutrition in terms of both calories and nitrogen when enteral and parenteral nutrition were used together, although there was no difference between the series. Early enteral nutrition is possible in critically-ill patients, while artificial nutrition was used most frequently and for longer in our patients. The existence of nutrition protocols allow acceptable levels of nutritional provision. Their controlled use allows the correction of deviations between real and theoretical provisions, customizing the nutrition for each patient. The use of parenteral formulas with high levels of nitrogen requires more accurate adjustment in order to avoid over-nutrition.

Optimization of a sample processing protocol for recovery of Bacillus anthracis spores from soil

USGS Publications Warehouse

Silvestri, Erin E.; Feldhake, David; Griffin, Dale; Lisle, John T.; Nichols, Tonya L.; Shah, Sanjiv; Pemberton, A; Schaefer III, Frank W

2016-01-01

Following a release of Bacillus anthracis spores into the environment, there is a potential for lasting environmental contamination in soils. There is a need for detection protocols for B. anthracis in environmental matrices. However, identification of B. anthracis within a soil is a difficult task. Processing soil samples helps to remove debris, chemical components, and biological impurities that can interfere with microbiological detection. This study aimed to optimize a previously used indirect processing protocol, which included a series of washing and centrifugation steps. Optimization of the protocol included: identifying an ideal extraction diluent, variation in the number of wash steps, variation in the initial centrifugation speed, sonication and shaking mechanisms. The optimized protocol was demonstrated at two laboratories in order to evaluate the recovery of spores from loamy and sandy soils. The new protocol demonstrated an improved limit of detection for loamy and sandy soils over the non-optimized protocol with an approximate matrix limit of detection at 14 spores/g of soil. There were no significant differences overall between the two laboratories for either soil type, suggesting that the processing protocol will be robust enough to use at multiple laboratories while achieving comparable recoveries.

Point-of-care ultrasound leads to diagnostic shifts in patients with undifferentiated hypotension.

PubMed

Shokoohi, Hamid; Boniface, Keith S; Zaragoza, Michelle; Pourmand, Ali; Earls, James P

2017-12-01

To assess the impact of an ultrasound hypotension protocol in identifying life-threatening diagnoses that were missed in the initial evaluation of patients with hypotension and shock. A subset of cases from a previously published prospective study of hypotensive patients who presented at the Emergency Department in a single, academic tertiary care hospital is described. An ultrasound-trained emergency physician performed an ultrasound on each patient using a standardized hypotension protocol. In each case, the differential diagnosis and management plan was solicited from the treating physician immediately before and after the ultrasound. This is a case series of patients with missed diagnoses in whom ultrasound led to a dramatic shift in diagnosis and management by detecting life threatening pathologies. Following a published prospective study of the effect on an ultrasound protocol in 118 hypotensive patients, we identified a series of cases that ultrasound protocol unexpectedly determined serious life threatening diagnoses such as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, pulmonary embolism, pericardial effusion with tamponade physiology, abdominal aortic aneurysm and perforated viscus resulting in proper diagnoses and management. These hypotensive patients had completely unsuspected but critical diagnoses explaining their hypotension, who in every case had their management altered to target the newly identified life-threatening condition. A hypotension protocol is an optimal use of ultrasound that exemplifies "right time, right place", and impacts decision-making at the bedside. In cases with undifferentiated hypotension, ultrasound is often the most readily available option to ensure that the most immediate life-threatening conditions are quickly identified and addressed in the order of their risk potential. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Achieving the Holevo bound via a bisection decoding protocol

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

Rosati, Matteo; Giovannetti, Vittorio

2016-06-15

We present a new decoding protocol to realize transmission of classical information through a quantum channel at asymptotically maximum capacity, achieving the Holevo bound and thus the optimal communication rate. At variance with previous proposals, our scheme recovers the message bit by bit, making use of a series of “yes-no” measurements, organized in bisection fashion, thus determining which codeword was sent in log{sub 2} N steps, N being the number of codewords.

Multiprocessor Real-Time Locking Protocols for Replicated Resources

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-01

circular buffer of slots, each representing a discrete segment of time . For example, if the maintenance of a timing wheel occurs af- ter an interrupt ...Experimental Evaluation To evaluate Algs. 2, 3, and 4, we conducted a series of ex- periments in which we measured relevant overheads and blocking times . We...Multiprocessor Real- Time Locking Protocols for Replicated Resources ∗ Catherine E. Jarrett1, Kecheng Yang1, Ming Yang1, Pontus Ekberg2, and James H

Small diameter carbon nanopipettes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singhal, Riju; Bhattacharyya, Sayan; Orynbayeva, Zulfiya; Vitol, Elina; Friedman, Gary; Gogotsi, Yury

2010-01-01

Nanoscale multifunctional carbon probes facilitate cellular studies due to their small size, which makes it possible to interrogate organelles within living cells in a minimally invasive fashion. However, connecting nanotubes to macroscopic devices and constructing an integrated system for the purpose of fluid and electrical signal transfer is challenging, as is often the case with nanoscale components. We describe a non-catalytic chemical vapor deposition based method for batch fabrication of integrated multifunctional carbon nanopipettes (CNPs) with tip diameters much smaller (10-30 nm) than previously reported (200 nm and above) and approaching those observed for multiwalled carbon nanotubes. This eliminates the need for complicated attachment/assembly of nanotubes into nanofluidic devices. Variable tip geometries and structures were obtained by controlled deposition of carbon inside and outside quartz pipettes. We have shown that the capillary length and gas flow rate have a marked effect on the carbon deposition. This gives us a flexible protocol, useful for growing carbon layers of different thicknesses at selective locations on a glass pipette to yield a large variety of cellular probes in bulk quantities. The CNPs possess an open channel for fluid transfer with the carbon deposited inside at 875 °C behaving like an amorphous semiconductor. Vacuum annealing of the CNP tips at temperatures up to 2000 °C yields graphitic carbon structures with an increase in conductivity of two orders of magnitude. Penetration of the integrated carbon nanoprobes into cells was shown to produce minimal Ca2+ signals, fast recovery of basal Ca2+ levels and no adverse activation of the cellular metabolism during interrogation times as long as 0.5-1 h.

Small diameter carbon nanopipettes.

PubMed

Singhal, Riju; Bhattacharyya, Sayan; Orynbayeva, Zulfiya; Vitol, Elina; Friedman, Gary; Gogotsi, Yury

2010-01-08

Nanoscale multifunctional carbon probes facilitate cellular studies due to their small size, which makes it possible to interrogate organelles within living cells in a minimally invasive fashion. However, connecting nanotubes to macroscopic devices and constructing an integrated system for the purpose of fluid and electrical signal transfer is challenging, as is often the case with nanoscale components. We describe a non-catalytic chemical vapor deposition based method for batch fabrication of integrated multifunctional carbon nanopipettes (CNPs) with tip diameters much smaller (10-30 nm) than previously reported (200 nm and above) and approaching those observed for multiwalled carbon nanotubes. This eliminates the need for complicated attachment/assembly of nanotubes into nanofluidic devices. Variable tip geometries and structures were obtained by controlled deposition of carbon inside and outside quartz pipettes. We have shown that the capillary length and gas flow rate have a marked effect on the carbon deposition. This gives us a flexible protocol, useful for growing carbon layers of different thicknesses at selective locations on a glass pipette to yield a large variety of cellular probes in bulk quantities. The CNPs possess an open channel for fluid transfer with the carbon deposited inside at 875 degrees C behaving like an amorphous semiconductor. Vacuum annealing of the CNP tips at temperatures up to 2000 degrees C yields graphitic carbon structures with an increase in conductivity of two orders of magnitude. Penetration of the integrated carbon nanoprobes into cells was shown to produce minimal Ca(2+) signals, fast recovery of basal Ca(2+) levels and no adverse activation of the cellular metabolism during interrogation times as long as 0.5-1 h.

Operation of the HP2250 with the HP9000 series 200 using PASCAL 3.0

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, John; Stroud, C. W.

1986-01-01

A computer program has been written to provide an interface between the HP Series 200 desktop computers, operating under HP Standard Pascal 3.0, and the HP2250 Data Acquisition and Control System. Pascal 3.0 for the HP9000 desktop computer gives a number of procedures for handling bus communication at various levels. It is necessary, however, to reach the lowest possible level in Pascal to handle the bus protocols required by the HP2250. This makes programming extremely complex since these protocols are not documented. The program described solves those problems and allows the user to immediately program, simply and efficiently, any measurement and control language (MCL/50) application with a few procedure calls. The complete set of procedures is available on a 5 1/4 inch diskette from Cosmic. Included in this group of procedures is an Exerciser which allows the user to exercise his HP2250 interactively. The exerciser operates in a fashion similar to the Series 200 operating system programs, but is adapted to the requirements of the HP2250. The programs on the diskette and the user's manual assume the user is acquainted with both the MCL/50 programming language and HP Standard Pascal 3.0 for the HP series 200 desktop computers.

Summary of: Regenerative endodontics.

PubMed

Clark, Stephen J

2014-03-01

Significant advances in our understanding of the biological processes involved in tooth development and repair at the cellular and molecular levels have underpinned the newly emerging area of regenerative endodontics. Development of treatment protocols based on exploiting the natural wound healing properties of the dental pulp and applying tissue engineering principles has allowed reporting of case series showing preservation of tissue vitality and apexogenesis. To review current case series reporting regenerative endodontics. Current treatment approaches tend to stimulate more reparative than regenerative responses in respect of the new tissue generated, which often does not closely resemble the physiological structure of dentine-pulp. However, despite these biological limitations, such techniques appear to offer significant promise for improved treatment outcomes. Improved biological outcomes will likely emerge from the many experimental studies being reported and will further contribute to improvements in clinical treatment protocols.

Stereoelectroencephalography Using Magnetic Resonance Angiography for Avascular Trajectory Planning: Technical Report.

PubMed

Minkin, Krasimir; Gabrovski, Kaloyan; Penkov, Marin; Todorov, Yuri; Tanova, Rositsa; Milenova, Yoana; Romansky, Kiril; Dimova, Petia

2017-10-01

Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) requires high-quality angiographic studies because avascular trajectory planning is a prerequisite for the safety of this procedure. Some epilepsy surgery groups have begun to use computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance T1-weighted sequence with contrast enhancement for this purpose. To present the first series of patients with avascular trajectory planning of SEEG based on magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Thirty-six SEEG explorations for drug-resistant focal epilepsy were performed from January 2013 to December 2015. A retrospective analysis of this consecutive surgical series was then performed. Magnetic resonance imaging included MRA with a modified contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography (MRV) protocol with a short acquisition delay, which allowed simultaneous arterial and venous visualization. Our criteria for satisfactory MRA were the visualization of at least first-order branches of the angular artery, paracentral and calcarine artery, and third-order tributaries of the superficial Sylvian vein, vein of Labbe, and vein of Trolard. Thirty-four patients underwent 36 SEEG explorations with 369 electrodes carrying 4321 contacts. Contrast-enhanced MRA using the MRV protocol was judged satisfactory for SEEG planning in all explorations. Postoperative complications were not observed in our series of 36 SEEG explorations, which included 50 transopercular insular trajectories. MRA using an MRV protocol may be applied for avascular trajectory planning during SEEG procedures. This technique provides a simultaneous visualization of cortical arteries and veins without the need for additional radiation exposure or intra-arterial catheter placement. Copyright © 2017 by the Congress of Neurological Surgeons

Comparison of NACA 6-series and 4-digit airfoils for Darrieus wind turbines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Migliore, P. G.

1983-08-01

The aerodynamic efficiency of Darrieus wind turbines as effected by blade airfoil geometry was investigated. Analysis was limited to curved-bladed machines having rotor solidities of 7-21 percent and operating at a Reynolds number of 3 x 10 to the 6th. Ten different airfoils, having thickness-to-chord ratios of 12, 15, and 18 percent, were studied. Performance estimates were made using a blade element/momentum theory approach. Results indicated that NACA 6-series airfoils yield peak power coefficients as great as NACA 4-digit airfoils and have broader and flatter power coefficient-tip speed ratio curves. Sample calculations for an NACA 63(2)-015 airfoil showed an annual energy output increase of 17-27 percent, depending on rotor solidity, compared to an NACA 0015 airfoil.

Darrieus wind-turbine airfoil configurations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Migliore, P. G.; Fritschen, J. R.

1982-06-01

The purpose was to determine what aerodynamic performance improvement, if any, could be achieved by judiciously choosing the airfoil sections for Darrieus wind turbine blades. Ten different airfoils, having thickness to chord ratios of twelve, fifteen and eighteen percent, were investigated. Performance calculations indicated that the NACA 6-series airfoils yield peak power coefficients at least as great as the NACA. Furthermore, the power coefficient-tip speed ratio curves were broader and flatter for the 6-series airfoils. Sample calculations for an NACA 63 sub 2-015 airfoil showed an annual energy output increase of 17 to 27% depending upon rotor solidity, compared to an NACA 0015 airfoil. An attempt was made to account for the flow curvature effects associated with Darrieus turbines by transforming the NACA 63 sub 2-015 airfoil to an appropriate shape.

DC-driven plasma gun: self-oscillatory operation mode of atmospheric-pressure helium plasma jet comprised of repetitive streamer breakdowns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xingxing; Shashurin, Alexey

2017-02-01

This paper presents and studies helium atmospheric pressure plasma jet comprised of a series of repetitive streamer breakdowns, which is driven by pure DC high voltage (self-oscillatory behavior). The repetition frequency of the breakdowns is governed by the geometry of discharge electrodes/surroundings and gas flow rate. Each next streamer is initiated when the electric field on the anode tip recovers after the previous breakdown and reaches the breakdown threshold value of about 2.5 kV cm-1. One type of the helium plasma gun designed using this operational principle is demonstrated. The gun operates on about 3 kV DC high voltage and is comprised of the series of the repetitive streamer breakdowns at a frequency of about 13 kHz.

Simple resection arthroplasty for treatment of 4th and 5th tarsometatarsal joint problems. A technical tip and a small case series.

PubMed

Koenis, M J J; Louwerens, J W K

2015-03-01

Osteoarthritis, primary or secondary, of the fourth and/or fifth tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint is a rare condition. When conservative treatment fails or proves to be unacceptable for the patient, operative treatment is an option. In this article the technique of resection arthroplasty is described and a retrospective case series of 6 patients is presented. Three patients underwent tendon interposition arthroplasty after resection of the two joints and in the last three cases no interposition at all was performed. Results suggest that resection arthroplasty without interposition may be as effective as other operative treatment options for patients with fourth and fifth TMT pathology. Copyright © 2014 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimal early active mobilisation protocol after extensor tendon repairs in zones V and VI: A systematic review of literature.

PubMed

Collocott, Shirley Jf; Kelly, Edel; Ellis, Richard F

2018-03-01

Early mobilisation protocols after repair of extensor tendons in zone V and VI provide better outcomes than immobilisation protocols. This systematic review investigated different early active mobilisation protocols used after extensor tendon repair in zone V and VI. The purpose was to determine whether any one early active mobilisation protocol provides superior results. An extensive literature search was conducted to identify articles investigating the outcomes of early active mobilisation protocols after extensor tendon repair in zone V and VI. Databases searched were AMED, Embase, Medline, Cochrane and CINAHL. Studies were included if they involved participants with extensor tendon repairs in zone V and VI in digits 2-5 and described a post-operative rehabilitation protocol which allowed early active metacarpophalangeal joint extension. Study designs included were randomised controlled trials, observational studies, cohort studies and case series. The Structured Effectiveness Quality Evaluation Scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria. Two types of early active mobilisation protocols were identified: controlled active motion protocols and relative motion extension splinting protocols. Articles describing relative motion extension splinting protocols were more recent but of lower methodological quality than those describing controlled active motion protocols. Participants treated with controlled active motion and relative motion extension splinting protocols had similar range of motion outcomes, but those in relative motion extension splinting groups returned to work earlier. The evidence reviewed suggested that relative motion extension splinting protocols may allow an earlier return to function than controlled active motion protocols without a greater risk of complication.

Lack of Critical Slowing Down Suggests that Financial Meltdowns Are Not Critical Transitions, yet Rising Variability Could Signal Systemic Risk.

PubMed

Guttal, Vishwesha; Raghavendra, Srinivas; Goel, Nikunj; Hoarau, Quentin

2016-01-01

Complex systems inspired analysis suggests a hypothesis that financial meltdowns are abrupt critical transitions that occur when the system reaches a tipping point. Theoretical and empirical studies on climatic and ecological dynamical systems have shown that approach to tipping points is preceded by a generic phenomenon called critical slowing down, i.e. an increasingly slow response of the system to perturbations. Therefore, it has been suggested that critical slowing down may be used as an early warning signal of imminent critical transitions. Whether financial markets exhibit critical slowing down prior to meltdowns remains unclear. Here, our analysis reveals that three major US (Dow Jones Index, S&P 500 and NASDAQ) and two European markets (DAX and FTSE) did not exhibit critical slowing down prior to major financial crashes over the last century. However, all markets showed strong trends of rising variability, quantified by time series variance and spectral function at low frequencies, prior to crashes. These results suggest that financial crashes are not critical transitions that occur in the vicinity of a tipping point. Using a simple model, we argue that financial crashes are likely to be stochastic transitions which can occur even when the system is far away from the tipping point. Specifically, we show that a gradually increasing strength of stochastic perturbations may have caused to abrupt transitions in the financial markets. Broadly, our results highlight the importance of stochastically driven abrupt transitions in real world scenarios. Our study offers rising variability as a precursor of financial meltdowns albeit with a limitation that they may signal false alarms.

The N-terminus of IpaB provides a potential anchor to the Shigella type III secretion system tip complex protein IpaD

PubMed Central

Dickenson, Nicholas E.; Arizmendi, Olivia; Patil, Mrinalini K.; Toth, Ronald T.; Middaugh, C. Russell; Picking, William D.; Picking, Wendy L.

2014-01-01

The type III secretion system (T3SS) is an essential virulence factor for Shigella flexneri, providing a conduit through which host-altering effectors are injected directly into a host cell to promote uptake. The type III secretion apparatus (T3SA) is comprised of a basal body, external needle, and regulatory tip complex. The nascent needle is a polymer of MxiH capped by a pentamer of invasion plasmid antigen D (IpaD). Exposure to bile salts (e.g. deoxycholate) causes a conformational change in IpaD and promotes recruitment of IpaB to the needle tip. It has been proposed that IpaB senses contact with host cell membranes, recruiting IpaC and inducing full secretion of T3SS effectors. While the steps of T3SA maturation and their external triggers have been identified, details of specific protein interactions and mechanisms have remained difficult to study due to the hydrophobic nature of the IpaB and IpaC translocator proteins. Here we explored the ability for a series of soluble N-terminal IpaB peptides to interact with IpaD. We found that DOC is required for the interaction and that a region of IpaB between residues 11–27 is required for maximum binding, which was confirmed in vivo. Furthermore, intramolecular FRET measurements indicated that movement of the IpaD distal domain away from the protein core accompanied the binding of IpaB11-226. Together these new findings provide important new insight into the interactions and potential mechanisms that define the maturation of the Shigella T3SA needle tip complex and provide a foundation for further studies probing T3SS activation. PMID:24236510

A Parametric Study for the Design of an Optimized Ultrasonic Percussive Planetary Drill Tool.

PubMed

Li, Xuan; Harkness, Patrick; Worrall, Kevin; Timoney, Ryan; Lucas, Margaret

2017-03-01

Traditional rotary drilling for planetary rock sampling, in situ analysis, and sample return are challenging because the axial force and holding torque requirements are not necessarily compatible with lightweight spacecraft architectures in low-gravity environments. This paper seeks to optimize an ultrasonic percussive drill tool to achieve rock penetration with lower reacted force requirements, with a strategic view toward building an ultrasonic planetary core drill (UPCD) device. The UPCD is a descendant of the ultrasonic/sonic driller/corer technique. In these concepts, a transducer and horn (typically resonant at around 20 kHz) are used to excite a toroidal free mass that oscillates chaotically between the horn tip and drill base at lower frequencies (generally between 10 Hz and 1 kHz). This creates a series of stress pulses that is transferred through the drill bit to the rock surface, and while the stress at the drill-bit tip/rock interface exceeds the compressive strength of the rock, it causes fractures that result in fragmentation of the rock. This facilitates augering and downward progress. In order to ensure that the drill-bit tip delivers the greatest effective impulse (the time integral of the drill-bit tip/rock pressure curve exceeding the strength of the rock), parameters such as the spring rates and the mass of the free mass, the drill bit and transducer have been varied and compared in both computer simulation and practical experiment. The most interesting findings and those of particular relevance to deep drilling indicate that increasing the mass of the drill bit has a limited (or even positive) influence on the rate of effective impulse delivered.

Lack of Critical Slowing Down Suggests that Financial Meltdowns Are Not Critical Transitions, yet Rising Variability Could Signal Systemic Risk

PubMed Central

Hoarau, Quentin

2016-01-01

Complex systems inspired analysis suggests a hypothesis that financial meltdowns are abrupt critical transitions that occur when the system reaches a tipping point. Theoretical and empirical studies on climatic and ecological dynamical systems have shown that approach to tipping points is preceded by a generic phenomenon called critical slowing down, i.e. an increasingly slow response of the system to perturbations. Therefore, it has been suggested that critical slowing down may be used as an early warning signal of imminent critical transitions. Whether financial markets exhibit critical slowing down prior to meltdowns remains unclear. Here, our analysis reveals that three major US (Dow Jones Index, S&P 500 and NASDAQ) and two European markets (DAX and FTSE) did not exhibit critical slowing down prior to major financial crashes over the last century. However, all markets showed strong trends of rising variability, quantified by time series variance and spectral function at low frequencies, prior to crashes. These results suggest that financial crashes are not critical transitions that occur in the vicinity of a tipping point. Using a simple model, we argue that financial crashes are likely to be stochastic transitions which can occur even when the system is far away from the tipping point. Specifically, we show that a gradually increasing strength of stochastic perturbations may have caused to abrupt transitions in the financial markets. Broadly, our results highlight the importance of stochastically driven abrupt transitions in real world scenarios. Our study offers rising variability as a precursor of financial meltdowns albeit with a limitation that they may signal false alarms. PMID:26761792

Controlling the electric charge of gold nanoplatelets on an insulator by field emission nc-AFM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baris, Bulent; Alchaar, Mohanad; Prasad, Janak; Gauthier, Sébastien; Dujardin, Erik; Martrou, David

2018-03-01

Charging of 2D Au nanoplatelets deposited on an insulating SiO2 substrate to or from the tip of a non-contact atomic force microscope (nc-AFM) is demonstrated. Charge transfer is controlled by monitoring the resonance frequency shift Δf(V) during the bias voltage ramp V applied to the tip-back electrode junction. The onset of charge transfer is revealed by a transition from a capacitive parabolic behavior to a constant Δf(V) region for both polarities. An analytical model, based on charging by electron field emission, shows that the field-emitted current saturates shortly after the onset of the charging, due to the limiting effect of the charge-induced rise of the Au platelet potential. The value of this current plateau depends only on the rate of the bias voltage ramp and on the value of the platelet/SiO2/back electrode capacitance. This analysis is confirmed by numerical simulations based on a virtual nc-AFM model that faithfully matches the experimental data. Our charging protocol could be used to tune the potential of the platelets at the single charge level.

In vitro plantlet regeneration from nodal segments and shoot tips of Capsicum chinense Jacq. cv. Naga King Chili.

PubMed

Kehie, Mechuselie; Kumaria, Suman; Tandon, Pramod

2012-03-01

An in vitro regeneration protocol was developed for Capsicum chinense Jacq. cv. Naga King Chili, a very pungent chili cultivar and an important horticultural crop of Nagaland (Northeast India). Maximum number of shoot (13 ± 0.70) was induced with bud-forming capacity (BFC) index of 10.8, by culturing nodal segments in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 18.16 μM Thidiazuron (TDZ) followed by 35.52 μM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Using shoot tips as explants, multiple shoot (10 ± 0.37) (BFC 8.3) was also induced in MS medium fortified with either 18.16 μM TDZ or 35.52 μM BAP. Elongated shoots were best rooted in MS medium containing 5.70 μM indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Rooted plantlets thus developed were hardened in 2-3 weeks time in plastic cups containing potting mixture of a 1:1 mix of soil and cow dung manure and then subsequently transferred to earthen pots. The regenerated plants did not show any variation in the morphology and growth as compared to the parent plant.

Twelve tips for a successful interprofessional team-based high-fidelity simulation education session

PubMed Central

Bould, M. Dylan; Layat Burn, Carine; Reeves, Scott

2014-01-01

Simulation-based education allows experiential learning without risk to patients. Interprofessional education aims to provide opportunities to different professions for learning how to work effectively together. Interprofessional simulation-based education presents many challenges, including the logistics of setting up the session and providing effective feedback to participants with different backgrounds and mental models. This paper aims to provide educators with a series of practical and pedagogical tips for designing, implementing, assessing, and evaluating a successful interprofessional team-based simulation session. The paper is organized in the sequence that an educator might use in developing an interprofessional simulation-based education session. Collectively, this paper provides guidance from determining interprofessional learning objectives and curricular design to program evaluation. With a better understanding of the concepts and pedagogical methods underlying interprofessional education and simulation, educators will be able to create conditions for a unique educational experience where individuals learn with and from other specialties and professions in a controlled, safe environment. PMID:25023765

Optical method of caustics applied in viscoelastic fracture analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Guiyun; Li, Zheng; Xu, Jie

2011-05-01

The optical method of caustics is developed here to study the fracture of viscoelastic materials. By adopting a distribution of viscoelastic stress fields near the crack tip, the method of caustics is used to determine the viscoelastic fracture parameters from the caustic patterns near the crack tip. Two viscoelastic materials are studied. These are PMMA and ternary composites of HDPE/POE-g-MA/CaCO 3. The transmitted and reflective methods of caustics are performed separately to investigate viscoelastic fracture behaviors. The stress intensity factors (SIFs) versus time is determined by a series of shadow spot patterns combined with viscoelastic parameters evaluated by creep tests. In order to understand the viscoelastic fracture mechanisms of HDPE/POE-g-MA/CaCO 3 composites, their fracture surfaces are observed by a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results indicate that the method of caustics can be used to characterize the fracture behaviors of viscoelastic materials and further to optimize the design of polymer composites.

Effect of vibration frequency on biopsy needle insertion force.

PubMed

Tan, Lei; Qin, Xuemei; Zhang, Qinhe; Zhang, Hongcai; Dong, Hongjian; Guo, Tuodang; Liu, Guowei

2017-05-01

Needle insertion is critical in many clinical medicine procedures, such as biopsy, brachytherapy, and injection therapy. A platform with two degrees of freedom was set up to study the effect of vibration frequency on needle insertion force. The gel phantom deformation at the needle cutting edge and the Voigt model are utilized to develop a dynamic model to explain the relationship between the insertion force and needle-tip velocity. The accuracy of this model was verified by performing needle insertions into phantom gel. The effect of vibration on insertion force can be explained as the vibration increasing the needle-tip velocity and subsequently increasing the insertion force. In a series of needle insertion experiments with different vibration frequencies, the peak forces were selected for comparison to explore the effect of vibration frequency on needle insertion force. The experimental results indicate that the insertion force at 500Hz increases up to 17.9% compared with the force at 50Hz. Copyright © 2017 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Moving template analysis of crack growth. 1: Procedure development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padovan, Joe; Guo, Y. H.

1994-06-01

Based on a moving template procedure, this two part series will develop a method to follow the crack tip physics in a self-adaptive manner which provides a uniformly accurate prediction of crack growth. For multiple crack environments, this is achieved by attaching a moving template to each crack tip. The templates are each individually oriented to follow the associated growth orientation and rate. In this part, the essentials of the procedure are derived for application to fatigue crack environments. Overall the scheme derived possesses several hierarchical levels, i.e. the global model, the interpolatively tied moving template, and a multilevel element death option to simulate the crack wake. To speed up computation, the hierarchical polytree scheme is used to reorganize the global stiffness inversion process. In addition to developing the various features of the scheme, the accuracy of predictions for various crack lengths is also benchmarked. Part 2 extends the scheme to multiple crack problems. Extensive benchmarking is also presented to verify the scheme.

The stress intensity factor for the double cantilever beam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fichter, W. B.

1983-01-01

Fourier transforms and the Wiener-Hopf technique are used in conjunction with plane elastostatics to examine the singular crack tip stress field in the double cantilever beam (DCB) specimen. In place of the Dirac delta function, a family of functions which duplicates the important features of the concentrated forces without introducing unmanageable mathematical complexities is used as a loading function. With terms of order h-squared/a-squared retained in the series expansion, the dimensionless stress intensity factor is found to be K (h to the 1/2)/P = 12 to the 1/2 (a/h + 0.6728 + 0.0377 h-squared/a-squared), in which P is the magnitude of the concentrated forces per unit thickness, a is the distance from the crack tip to the points of load application, and h is the height of each cantilever beam. The result is similar to that obtained by Gross and Srawley by fitting a line to discrete results from their boundary collocation analysis.

A new species of Pseudopaludicola Miranda-Ribeiro (Leiuperinae: Leptodactylidae: Anura) from the Cerrado of Southeastern Brazil.

PubMed

De Andrade, Felipe Silva; De Carvalho, Thiago Ribeiro

2013-01-22

A new species of Pseudopaludicola is described from the Cerrado of southeastern Brazil. Pseudopaludicola facureae sp. nov. is diagnosed from the P. pusilla species group by the absence of either T-shaped terminal phalanges or toe tips expanded, and distinguished from almost all recognized taxa currently assigned to Pseudopaludicola (except P. canga, P. giarettai, and P. hyleaustralis) by possessing a non-pulsed advertisement call. However, the advertisement call of the new species consists of the emission of well-defined call series, whereas the advertisement call of P. giarettai is long (117-187 ms) and with an isolated emission pattern; respecting to P. canga, the new species emits very long notes series (up to 53 notes/advertisement call), compared to the short call series of P. canga (up to 9 notes/advertisement call); considering P. hyleaustralis, the new species has a shorter note duration (15-35 ms), higher note rate per minute (480-1860), and higher dominant frequency (4076-5108).

Simultaneous Nanoscale Surface Charge and Topographical Mapping.

PubMed

Perry, David; Al Botros, Rehab; Momotenko, Dmitry; Kinnear, Sophie L; Unwin, Patrick R

2015-07-28

Nanopipettes are playing an increasingly prominent role in nanoscience, for sizing, sequencing, delivery, detection, and mapping interfacial properties. Herein, the question of how to best resolve topography and surface charge effects when using a nanopipette as a probe for mapping in scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) is addressed. It is shown that, when a bias modulated (BM) SICM scheme is used, it is possible to map the topography faithfully, while also allowing surface charge to be estimated. This is achieved by applying zero net bias between the electrode in the SICM tip and the one in bulk solution for topographical mapping, with just a small harmonic perturbation of the potential to create an AC current for tip positioning. Then, a net bias is applied, whereupon the ion conductance current becomes sensitive to surface charge. Practically this is optimally implemented in a hopping-cyclic voltammetry mode where the probe is approached at zero net bias at a series of pixels across the surface to reach a defined separation, and then a triangular potential waveform is applied and the current response is recorded. Underpinned with theoretical analysis, including finite element modeling of the DC and AC components of the ionic current flowing through the nanopipette tip, the powerful capabilities of this approach are demonstrated with the probing of interfacial acid-base equilibria and high resolution imaging of surface charge heterogeneities, simultaneously with topography, on modified substrates.

Nanoscale patterning of gold-coated optical fibers for improved plasmonic sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antohe, Iulia; Spasic, Dragana; Delport, Filip; Li, Jiaqi; Lammertyn, Jeroen

2017-05-01

Merging surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to fiber optic (FO) technology has brought remarkable achievements in the field by offering attractive advantages over the conventional prism-based SPR platforms, such as simplicity, cost-effectiveness and miniaturization. However, the performance of the existing FO-SPR instruments mainly depends on the device surface condition and in particular on the structural aspect of the thin gold (Au) plasmonic film deposited on the FO substrate. In this work, a simple cost-effective colloidal lithography technique (CLT) was adapted and applied for the first time to the micrometer-sized FO substrate, to design end reflection-type FO-SPR sensors with periodic arrays of Au triangularly-shaped nanostructures on the Au mirror FO tip distal end. The nanopatterned FO-SPR sensor tips were afterwards subjected to refractometric measurements in a sucrose dilution series and subsequently compared with their non-patterned counterparts. It was observed that the spectral dips of the nanopatterned FO-SPR sensor tips were shifted towards longer wavelengths after CLT patterning. Moreover, the sensor sensitivity was improved with up to 25% compared to the conventional non-patterned FO-SPR devices. The obtained results represent important steps in the development of a new generation of FO-SPR sensors with improved performance, which can ultimately be used in various applications, ranging from food analysis and environmental monitoring, to health control and medical diagnosis.

Regulation of Dental Enamel Shape and Hardness

PubMed Central

Simmer, J.P.; Papagerakis, P.; Smith, C.E.; Fisher, D.C.; Rountrey, A.N.; Zheng, L.; Hu, J.C.-C.

2010-01-01

Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions guide tooth development through its early stages and establish the morphology of the dentin surface upon which enamel will be deposited. Starting with the onset of amelogenesis beneath the future cusp tips, the shape of the enamel layer covering the crown is determined by five growth parameters: the (1) appositional growth rate, (2) duration of appositional growth (at the cusp tip), (3) ameloblast extension rate, (4) duration of ameloblast extension, and (5) spreading rate of appositional termination. Appositional growth occurs at a mineralization front along the ameloblast distal membrane in which amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) ribbons form and lengthen. The ACP ribbons convert into hydroxyapatite crystallites as the ribbons elongate. Appositional growth involves a secretory cycle that is reflected in a series of incremental lines. A potentially important function of enamel proteins is to ensure alignment of successive mineral increments on the tips of enamel ribbons deposited in the previous cycle, causing the crystallites to lengthen with each cycle. Enamel hardens in a maturation process that involves mineral deposition onto the sides of existing crystallites until they interlock with adjacent crystallites. Neutralization of acidity generated by hydroxyapatite formation is a key part of the mechanism. Here we review the growth parameters that determine the shape of the enamel crown as well as the mechanisms of enamel appositional growth and maturation. PMID:20675598

Restoration of the orbital aesthetic subunit with the thoracodorsal artery system of flaps in patients undergoing radiation therapy.

PubMed

Chanowski, Eric J P; Casper, Keith A; Eisbruch, Avraham; Heth, Jason A; Marentette, Lawrence J; Prince, Mark E; Moyer, Jeffrey S; Chepeha, Douglas B

2013-10-01

Objectives To demonstrate the advantages of the thoracodorsal artery scapular tip autogenous transplant (Tdast) for patients requiring restoration of the orbital aesthetic subunit. Design Prospective case series. Setting Tertiary center. Participants Ten patients (M:F,6:4) with a mean age of 56 years (range, 21 to 78 years) underwent restoration of the orbital aesthetic subunit and radiation therapy between 2001 and 2008. Main Outcome Measures The two reconstructive advantages of the thoracodorsal artery system of flaps for orbital reconstruction are a long pedicle and the suitability of the scapula tip to meet the three-dimensional requirements of the orbit. Patients were assessed 1 year or more after treatment for cosmetic outcome, work status, and socialization. Results Eight of 10 patients benefited from the three-dimensional nature of the scapula tip bone and 7 of 10 avoided vein grafting. Four of five evaluable patients reported "frequently" socializing outside their home. Four of five evaluable patients working before undergoing their treatment were able to return to work posttreatment. Seven of nine patients with postoperative photographs had minimal or no facial contour deformity. Conclusions The Tdast can restore orbital contour without osteotomy, and the thoracodorsal artery system of flaps has a long vascular pedicle that reduces vein grafting. Patients have an acceptable cosmetic result and return to preoperative work status and socialization.

Does surgical sympathectomy improve clinical outcomes in patients with refractory angina pectoris?

PubMed

Holland, Luke C; Navaratnarajah, Manoraj; Taggart, David P

2016-04-01

A best evidence topic in cardiothoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: In patients with angina pectoris refractory to medical therapy, does surgical sympathectomy improve clinical outcomes? A total of 528 papers were identified using the search protocol described, of which 6 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. There were 5 case series and 1 prospective cohort study. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. All 5 of the case series demonstrated an improvement in symptoms, exercise tolerance or quality of life in patients undergoing surgical sympathectomy. An early case series investigating an open approach had a high morbidity and mortality rate, but the 4 other series used a minimally invasive technique and had low morbidity and zero perioperative mortality rates. The cohort study compared surgical sympathectomy with transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) and concluded TMR to be superior. However, this study looked only at unilateral sympathectomy, whereas all 5 case series focused on bilateral surgery. We conclude that the best currently available evidence does suggest that patients report an improvement in their symptoms and quality of life following surgical sympathectomy, but the low level of this evidence does not allow for a statistically proved recommendation. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Bacterial molecular networks: bridging the gap between functional genomics and dynamical modelling.

PubMed

van Helden, Jacques; Toussaint, Ariane; Thieffry, Denis

2012-01-01

This introductory review synthesizes the contents of the volume Bacterial Molecular Networks of the series Methods in Molecular Biology. This volume gathers 9 reviews and 16 method chapters describing computational protocols for the analysis of metabolic pathways, protein interaction networks, and regulatory networks. Each protocol is documented by concrete case studies dedicated to model bacteria or interacting populations. Altogether, the chapters provide a representative overview of state-of-the-art methods for data integration and retrieval, network visualization, graph analysis, and dynamical modelling.

Measuring Feedforward Inhibition and Its Impact on Local Circuit Function.

PubMed

Hull, Court

2017-05-01

This protocol describes a series of approaches to measure feedforward inhibition in acute brain slices from the cerebellar cortex. Using whole-cell voltage and current clamp recordings from Purkinje cells in conjunction with electrical stimulation of the parallel fibers, these methods demonstrate how to measure the relationship between excitation and inhibition in a feedforward circuit. This protocol also describes how to measure the impact of feedforward inhibition on Purkinje cell excitability, with an emphasis on spike timing. © 2017 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

A multi-hop teleportation protocol of arbitrary four-qubit states through intermediate nodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhury, Binayak S.; Samanta, Soumen

Teleportation processes over long distances become affected by the almost inevitable existence of noise which interferes with the entangled quantum channels. In view of this, intermediate nodes are introduced in the scheme. These nodes are connected in series through quantum entanglement. In this paper, we present a protocol for transferring an entangled four-particle cluster-type state in an integrated manner through the intermediate nodes. Its efficiency and advantage over the corresponding part by part teleportation process is discussed.

The duty of care 1: compliance with directives and protocols.

PubMed

Fullbrook, Suzanne

The first three articles in this series will concentrate on the issue the legal 'duty of care'--the terms of which we as nurses have to understand. The first article examines a recent decision of the High Court of England and Wales that discusses and examines directives and protocols. I have begun with a discussion of the fact that a duty of care not only extends from healthcare providers to patients (clients) but also from employers to employees, and between healthcare providers themselves.

Ocean Optics Protocols for Satellite Ocean Color Sensor Validation. Revised

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fargion, Giulietta S.; Mueller, James L.

2000-01-01

The document stipulates protocols for measuring bio-optical and radiometric data for the Sensor Intercomparison and Merger for Biological and Interdisciplinary Oceanic Studies (SIMBIOS) Project activities and algorithm development. This document supersedes the earlier version (Mueller and Austin 1995) published as Volume 25 in the SeaWiFS Technical Report Series. This document marks a significant departure from, and improvement on, theformat and content of Mueller and Austin (1995). The authorship of the protocols has been greatly broadened to include experts specializing in some key areas. New chapters have been added to provide detailed and comprehensive protocols for stability monitoring of radiometers using portable sources, abovewater measurements of remote-sensing reflectance, spectral absorption measurements for discrete water samples, HPLC pigment analysis and fluorometric pigment analysis. Protocols were included in Mueller and Austin (1995) for each of these areas, but the new treatment makes significant advances in each topic area. There are also new chapters prescribing protocols for calibration of sun photometers and sky radiance sensors, sun photometer and sky radiance measurements and analysis, and data archival. These topic areas were barely mentioned in Mueller and Austin (1995).

Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) glove evaluation test protocol

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinman-Sweeney, E. M.

1994-01-01

One of the most critical components of a space suit is the gloves, yet gloves have traditionally presented significant design challenges. With continued efforts at glove development, a method for evaluating glove performance is needed. This paper presents a pressure-glove evaluation protocol. A description of this evaluation protocol, and its development is provided. The protocol allows comparison of one glove design to another, or any one design to bare-handed performance. Gloves for higher pressure suits may be evaluated at current and future design pressures to drive out differences in performance due to pressure effects. Using this protocol, gloves may be evaluated during design to drive out design problems and determine areas for improvement, or fully mature designs may be evaluated with respect to mission requirements. Several different test configurations are presented to handle these cases. This protocol was run on a prototype glove. The prototype was evaluated at two operating pressures and in the unpressurized state, with results compared to bare-handed performance. Results and analysis from this test series are provided, as is a description of the configuration used for this test.

MRI of penile fracture: what should be a tailored protocol in emergency?

PubMed

Esposito, Andrea Alessandro; Giannitto, Caterina; Muzzupappa, Claudia; Maccagnoni, Sara; Gadda, Franco; Albo, Giancarlo; Biondetti, Pietro Raimondo

2016-09-01

To conduct a review of literature to summarize the existing MRI protocols for penile trauma, suggesting a tailored protocol to reduce costs and time of examination. A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Cinahl databases from 1995 to 2015 to identify studies evaluating penis trauma with MRI examination. Studies were included if there was the description of MRI protocol with at least sequences and orthogonal planes used. We chose a systematic approach for data extraction and descriptive synthesis. 12 articles were included in our study. Among the list of 12 articles: 2 were case reports, 3 were clinical series, and 7 were reviews. Clinical trials were not found. There is no unanimous consensus among the authors. Summarizing the data, the most used protocol is characterized by T2 sequences in three orthogonal planes plus T1 sequences in one plane (either axial or sagittal) without contrast medium injection. There is a lack of a standard protocol. A tailored protocol to answer the diagnostic question, reducing costs and time of examination, is characterized by T2 sequences in three orthogonal planes plus at least a T1 sequence (either axial or sagittal plane).

Independent value of image fusion in unenhanced breast MRI using diffusion-weighted and morphological T2-weighted images for lesion characterization in patients with recently detected BI-RADS 4/5 x-ray mammography findings.

PubMed

Bickelhaupt, Sebastian; Tesdorff, Jana; Laun, Frederik Bernd; Kuder, Tristan Anselm; Lederer, Wolfgang; Teiner, Susanne; Maier-Hein, Klaus; Daniel, Heidi; Stieber, Anne; Delorme, Stefan; Schlemmer, Heinz-Peter

2017-02-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and applicability of solitarily reading fused image series of T2-weighted and high-b-value diffusion-weighted sequences for lesion characterization as compared to sequential or combined image analysis of these unenhanced sequences and to contrast- enhanced breast MRI. This IRB-approved study included 50 female participants with suspicious breast lesions detected in screening X-ray mammograms, all of which provided written informed consent. Prior to biopsy, all women underwent MRI including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWIBS, b = 1500s/mm 2 ). Images were analyzed as follows: prospective image fusion of DWIBS and T2-weighted images (FU), side-by-side analysis of DWIBS and T2-weighted series (CO), combination of the first two methods (CO+FU), and full contrast-enhanced diagnostic protocol (FDP). Diagnostic indices, confidence, and image quality of the protocols were compared by two blinded readers. Reading the CO+FU (accuracy 0.92; NPV 96.1 %; PPV 87.6 %) and the CO series (0.90; 96.1 %; 83.7 %) provided a diagnostic performance similar to the FDP (0.95; 96.1 %; 91.3 %; p > 0.05). FU reading alone significantly reduced the diagnostic accuracy (0.82; 93.3 %; 73.4 %; p = 0.023). MR evaluation of suspicious BI-RADS 4 and 5 lesions detected on mammography by using a non-contrast-enhanced T2-weighted and DWIBS sequence protocol is most accurate if MR images were read using the CO+FU protocol. • Unenhanced breast MRI with additional DWIBS/T2w-image fusion allows reliable lesion characterization. • Abbreviated reading of fused DWIBS/T2w-images alone decreases diagnostic confidence and accuracy. • Reading fused DWIBS/T2w-images as the sole diagnostic method should be avoided.

Differential effects of tactile high- and low-frequency stimulation on tactile discrimination in human subjects.

PubMed

Ragert, Patrick; Kalisch, Tobias; Bliem, Barbara; Franzkowiak, Stephanie; Dinse, Hubert R

2008-01-23

Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) play important roles in mediating activity-dependent changes in synaptic transmission and are believed to be crucial mechanisms underlying learning and cortical plasticity. In human subjects, however, the lack of adequate input stimuli for the induction of LTP and LTD makes it difficult to study directly the impact of such protocols on behavior. Using tactile high- and low-frequency stimulation protocols in humans, we explored the potential of such protocols for the induction of perceptual changes. We delivered tactile high-frequency and low-frequency stimuli (t-HFS, t-LFS) to skin sites of approximately 50 mm2 on the tip of the index finger. As assessed by 2-point discrimination, we demonstrate that 20 minutes of t-HFS improved tactile discrimination, while t-LFS impaired performance. T-HFS-effects were stable for at least 24 hours whereas t-LFS-induced changes recovered faster. While t-HFS changes were spatially very specific with no changes on the neighboring fingers, impaired tactile performance after t-LFS was also observed on the right middle-finger. A central finding was that for both t-LFS and t-HFS perceptual changes were dependent on the size of the stimulated skin area. No changes were observed when the stimulated area was very small (< 1 mm2) indicating special requirements for spatial summation. Our results demonstrate differential effects of such protocols in a frequency specific manner that might be related to LTP- and LTD-like changes in human subjects.

Modified CTAB and TRIzol protocols improve RNA extraction from chemically complex Embryophyta1

PubMed Central

Jordon-Thaden, Ingrid E.; Chanderbali, Andre S.; Gitzendanner, Matthew A.; Soltis, Douglas E.

2015-01-01

Premise of the study: Here we present a series of protocols for RNA extraction across a diverse array of plants; we focus on woody, aromatic, aquatic, and other chemically complex taxa. Methods and Results: Ninety-one taxa were subjected to RNA extraction with three methods presented here: (1) TRIzol/TURBO DNA-free kits using the manufacturer’s protocol with the addition of sarkosyl; (2) a combination method using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and TRIzol/sarkosyl/TURBO DNA-free; and (3) a combination of CTAB and QIAGEN RNeasy Plant Mini Kit. Bench-ready protocols are given. Conclusions: After an iterative process of working with chemically complex taxa, we conclude that the use of TRIzol supplemented with sarkosyl and the TURBO DNA-free kit is an effective, efficient, and robust method for obtaining RNA from 100 mg of leaf tissue of land plant species (Embryophyta) examined. Our protocols can be used to provide RNA of suitable stability, quantity, and quality for transcriptome sequencing. PMID:25995975

Transdiagnostic Treatment of Bipolar Disorder and Comorbid Anxiety with the Unified Protocol: A Clinical Replication Series

PubMed Central

Ellard, Kristen K.; Deckersbach, Thilo; Sylvia, Louisa G.; Nierenberg, Andrew A.; Barlow, David H.

2013-01-01

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic, debilitating disorder with recurrent manic and depressive episodes. Over 75% of bipolar patients have a current or lifetime diagnosis of a comorbid anxiety disorder. Comorbid anxiety in BD is associated with greater illness severity, greater functional impairment, and poorer illness-related outcomes. Effectively treating comorbid anxiety in individuals with BD has been recognized as one of the biggest unmet needs in the field of bipolar disorder. Recently, the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders (UP) was developed to be applicable to the full range of anxiety and mood disorders, based upon converging evidence from genetics, cognitive and affective neuroscience, and behavioral research suggesting common, core emotion-related pathology. Here, we present a preliminary evaluation of the efficacy of the UP for the treatment of BD with comorbid anxiety, in a clinical replication series consisting of three cases. PMID:22822175

Nonlinear heart rate variability measures under electromagnetic fields produced by GSM cellular phones.

PubMed

Parazzini, Marta; Ravazzani, Paolo; Thuroczy, György; Molnar, Ferenc B; Ardesi, Gianluca; Sacchettini, Alessio; Mainardi, Luca Tommaso

2013-06-01

This study was designed to assess the nonlinear dynamics of heart rate variability (HRV) during exposure to low-intensity EMFs. Twenty-six healthy young volunteers were subjected to a rest-to-stand protocol to evaluate autonomic nervous system in quiet condition (rest, vagal prevalence) and after a sympathetic activation (stand). The procedure was conducted twice in a double-blind design: once with a genuine EMFs exposure (GSM cellular phone at 900 MHz, 2 W) and once with a sham exposure (at least 24 h apart). During each session, three-lead electrocardiograms were recorded and RR series extracted off-line. The RR series were analyzed by nonlinear deterministic techniques in every phase of the protocol and during the different exposures. The analysis of the data shows there was no statistically significant effect due to GSM exposure on the nonlinear dynamics of HRV.

Tips and tricks for preparing lampbrush chromosome spreads from Xenopus tropicalis oocytes.

PubMed

Penrad-Mobayed, May; Kanhoush, Rasha; Perrin, Caroline

2010-05-01

Due to their large size and fine organization, lampbrush chromosomes (LBCs) of amphibian oocytes have been for decades one of the favorite tools of biologists for the analysis of transcriptional and post-transcriptional processes at the cytological level. The emergence of the diploid Xenopus tropicalis amphibian as a model organism for vertebrate developmental genetics and the accumulation of sequence data made available by its recent genomic sequencing, strongly revive the interest of LBCs as a powerful tool to study genes expressed during oogenesis. We describe here a detailed protocol for preparing LBCs from X. tropicalis oocyte and give practical advice to encourage a large number of researchers to become familiar with these chromosomes.

Do different maxillary expansion appliances influence the outcomes of the treatment?

PubMed

Algharbi, Muteb; Bazargani, Farhan; Dimberg, Lillemor

2018-01-23

There is no consensus in the literature regarding which rapid maxillary expansion (RME) design or activation rate benefits the patients the most. Therefore, the primary aim of this systematic review was to see whether there is a difference in the skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of different RME appliances in children and growing adolescents. The secondary aim was to see whether these effects are different when using different activation protocols for these appliances. The search was done in three databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science). The following inclusion criteria were used: randomized controlled trial, prospective controlled studies, 15 or more patients in each study, human subjects up to 18 years of age, and RME effects had to be assessed by computed tomography/cone beam computed tomography. Quality of the methodology was classified according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines as high, moderate, or low. The search resulted in 145 titles and abstracts; 109 of them were excluded based on pre-established criteria. Thirty-six full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and 18 of which satisfied the inclusion criteria. Finally, seven articles were deemed eligible for full inclusion and revealed that all appliances and protocols showed significant expansion in the mid-palatal suture. No evidence was found for the cause of dental tipping. In this systematic review, having different age groups in each study and using different anatomical landmarks and outcome measures for assessing the skeletal and dental effects made it difficult to conduct a meta-analysis. There is moderate evidence that all designs produce significant expansion at the mid-palatal suture. However, lack of studies comparing appliances and protocols has been found. Finally, no evidence-based conclusions could be drawn about the appliance effect on teeth tipping. No appliance appears to be superior when it comes to expansion in the mid-palatal suture. Therefore, the tooth-borne appliance might be preferable until further high-quality studies conclude otherwise. The project was funded through the Department of Orthodontics, Postgraduate Dental Education Center, Region Örebro County, Örebro, Sweden. This systematic review was not registered in any external databases. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Orthodontic Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

Align-and-shine photolithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrusis, Audrius; Rector, Jan H.; Smith, Kristen; de Man, Sven; Iannuzzi, Davide

2009-10-01

At the beginning of 2009, our group has introduced a new technique that allows fabrication of photolithographic patterns on the cleaved end of an optical fibre: the align-and-shine photolithography technique (see A. Petrušis et al., "The align-and-shine technique for series production of photolithography patterns on optical fibres", J. Micromech. Microeng. 19, 047001, 2009). Align-and-shine photolithography combines standard optical lithography with imagebased active fibre alignment processes. The technique adapts well to series production, opening the way to batch fabrication of fibre-top devices (D. Iannuzzi et al., "Monolithic fibre-top cantilever for critical environments and standard applications", Appl. Phys. Lett. 88, 053501, 2006) and all other devices that rely on suitable machining of engineered parts on the tip of a fibre. In this paper we review our results and briefly discuss its potential applications.

Incidence of C4d stain in protocol biopsies from renal allografts: results from a multicenter trial.

PubMed

Mengel, Michael; Bogers, Johannes; Bosmans, Jean-Louis; Serón, Daniel; Moreso, Francesc; Carrera, Marta; Gwinner, Wilfried; Schwarz, Anke; De Broe, Marc; Kreipe, Hans; Haller, Hermann

2005-05-01

C4d staining of renal allografts is regarded as an in situ marker of active humoral rejection. Few data are available about the incidence of C4d deposition in protocol biopsies compared to indication biopsies. To evaluate whether center-specific factors influence the incidence of C4d detection, we performed a multicenter study. From three European centers, 551 protocol and 377 indication biopsies were reclassified according to the updated Banff criteria and stained for C4d. C4d results were recorded as diffuse or focal positive and statistically correlated to clinical parameters, morphology and graft survival. In the protocol biopsies, a diffuse C4d stain was found in 2.0%, and a focal stain in 2.4%. In indication biopsies, 12.2% were diffusely and 8.5% focally C4d positive (protocol:indication p < 0.0001). The incidence of C4d deposition varied significantly between centers, attributable to variable numbers of presensitized patients with more C4d positive indication and protocol biopsies. Diffuse and focal C4d stain correlated with morphology of humoral rejection in protocol as well as in indication biopsies. Protocol biopsies show a significantly lower incidence of C4d deposition than indication biopsies. Subclinical C4d detection in protocol biopsies had no significant impact on allograft survival in our series.

The Myth, the Truth, the NASA IRB

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Covington, M. D.; Flores, M. P.; Neutzler, V. P.; Schlegel, T. T.; Platts, S. H.; Lioyd, C. W.

2017-01-01

The purpose of the NASA Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to review research activities involving human subjects to ensure that ethical standards for the care and protection of human subjects have been met and research activities are in compliance with all pertinent federal, state and local regulations as well as NASA policies. NASA IRB's primary role is the protection of human subjects in research studies. Protection of human subjects is the shared responsibility of NASA, the IRB, and the scientific investigators. Science investigators who plan to conduct NASA-funded human research involving NASA investigators, facilities, or funds must submit and coordinate their research studies for review and approval by the NASA IRB prior to initiation. The IRB has the authority to approve, require changes in, or disapprove research involving human subjects. Better knowledge of the NASA IRB policies, procedures and guidelines should help facilitate research protocol applications and approvals. In this presentation, the myths and truths of NASA IRB policies and procedures will be discussed. We will focus on the policies that guide a protocol through the NASA IRB and the procedures that principal investigators must take to obtain required IRB approvals for their research studies. In addition, tips to help ensure a more efficient IRB review will be provided. By understanding the requirements and processes, investigators will be able to more efficiently prepare their protocols and obtain the required NASA IRB approval in a timely manner.

Assessing Metal Mobilization from Industrially Lead-Contaminated Soils Located at an Urban Site

EPA Science Inventory

A series of leaching and partitioning tests (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP), Controlled Acidity Leaching Protocol (CALP), Acid Neutralization Capacity (ANC), and sequential extraction) were applied to three dif...

Small Aperture BPM to Quadrupole Assembly Tolerance Study

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

Fong, K. W.

2010-12-07

The LCLS injector and linac systems utilize a series of quadrupole magnets with a beam position monitor (BPM) captured in the magnet pole tips. The BPM measures the electron beam position by comparing the electrical signal from 4 electrodes and interpolating beam position from these signals. The manufacturing tolerances of the magnet and BPM are critical in determining the mechanical precision of the electrodes relative to the nominal electron beam Z-axis. This study evaluates the statistical uncertainty of the electrodes center axis relative to the nominal electron beam axis.

The mammalian blastema: regeneration at our fingertips

PubMed Central

Simkin, Jennifer; Sammarco, Mimi C.; Dawson, Lindsay A.; Schanes, Paula P.; Yu, Ling

2015-01-01

Abstract In the mouse, digit tip regeneration progresses through a series of discrete stages that include inflammation, histolysis, epidermal closure, blastema formation, and redifferentiation. Recent studies reveal how each regenerative stage influences subsequent stages to establish a blastema that directs the successful regeneration of a complex mammalian structure. The focus of this review is on early events of healing and how an amputation wound transitions into a functional blastema. The stepwise formation of a mammalian blastema is proposed to provide a model for how specific targeted treatments can enhance regenerative performance in humans. PMID:27499871

Strip Yield Model Numerical Application to Different Geometries and Loading Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hatamleh, Omar; Forman, Royce; Shivakumar, Venkataraman; Lyons, Jed

2006-01-01

A new numerical method based on the strip-yield analysis approach was developed for calculating the Crack Tip Opening Displacement (CTOD). This approach can be applied for different crack configurations having infinite and finite geometries, and arbitrary applied loading conditions. The new technique adapts the boundary element / dislocation density method to obtain crack-face opening displacements at any point on a crack, and succeeds by obtaining requisite values as a series of definite integrals, the functional parts of each being evaluated exactly in a closed form.

What Does the Evidence Say Is Best for Your Student? CLUE #3: Appraise.

PubMed

Maughan, Erin D; Yonkaitis, Catherine F

2018-03-01

School nurses are often faced with various requests from parents, teachers, and even healthcare providers. How do you know what requests should be honored? What does the current evidence indicate? This article is the third in a series of articles outlining the steps of evidence-based practice. The article explains and provides tips for accomplishing the third step: Appraise the evidence. Appraising the evidence means better understanding what the literature says and how strong the evidence is. This is an important step in evidence-based school nursing practice.

3D Reconstruction of SPM Probes by Electron Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, X.; Peng, Y.; Saghi, Z.; Gay, R.; Inkson, B. J.; Möbus, G.

2007-04-01

Three-dimensional morphological and compositional structures of tungsten tips consisting of layered amorphous oxide shell and crystalline W core are reconstructed by electron tomography using both coherent and incoherent imaging modes. The fidelity of the reconstruction is dependent on three criteria, suppression of unwanted crystal orientation contrast in the crystalline core, nonlinear intensity-thickness relations above a certain thickness limit, and artefacts due to missing angular ranges when acquiring a tilt series of images. Annular dark field (ADF), and EDX chemical mapping are discussed as alternatives to standard bright field (BF) TEM imaging.

Totally implantable venous access devices: evaluation of complications and a prospective comparative study of two different port systems.

PubMed

Hartkamp, A; van Boxtel, A J; Zonnenberg, B A; Witteveen, P O

2000-12-01

Totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) are valuable instruments in case prolonged intravenous therapy is required, but implantation and use of these devices are associated with complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate perioperative and long-term complications associated with TIVADs. In addition, we compared two different types of TIVADs with respect to implantation, care protocol and patients' comfort. In a retrospective study perioperative and long-term complications in a general oncology population were analysed. In a prospective randomized study comparison of two types of TIVADs was carried out. Perioperative complications occurred in 27 (21.4%) of 126 implanted TIVADs: catheter malposition (16.7%) in 21 patients, pneumothorax (0.8%) in one and haemorrhage (4.0%) in five. Long-term complications appeared in 31 (25.2%) out of 123 TIVADs: thrombosis in 9 (7.3%), especially associated with malposition of the tip of the catheter; infection in 10 (8.1%); extravasation in 2 (1.6%); migration of the catheter tip in 6 (4.8%); pain at reservoir in 3 (2.4%) and inaccessibility of the port in 1 (0.8%). No significant differences were found with respect to implantation, care accessibility and patients' comfort between the two TIVADs. The use of TIVADs is associated with some risk of serious perioperative and long-term complications. In case of thrombotic complications these systems can be saved with appropriate treatment. Correct positioning of the catheter tip is essential to prevent thrombotic complications. In case of TIVAD-related infectious complications, the possibility of saving the TIVAD depends on the causative microorganism and type of infection. Furthermore, to increase patients' satisfaction with TIVADs they should be well informed about the surgical procedure and possible disadvantages of these devices.

Bioacoustics reveals two new syntopic species of Adenomera Steindachner (Anura: Leptodactylidae: Leptodactylinae) in the Cerrado of central Brazil.

PubMed

De Carvalho, Thiago Ribeiro; Giaretta, Ariovaldo Antonio

2013-11-01

In this paper, we describe two syntopic species of Adenomera from the Chapada dos Veadeiros microregion, northern State of Goiás, central Brazil, recognized based on morphology, color patterns, and bioacoustics. Specimens and calls were obtained in the Municipality of Teresina de Goiás, central Brazil. Adenomera cotuba sp. nov. is diagnosed from the other 16 congeneric species by its 1) small size (adult male SVL 18.6-20.5 mm) and very robust body; 2) dorsum glandular/granular with no distinctive dorsal granular rows or dorsolateral folds; 3) black or very dark dorsal coloration with no distinctive color patterns (e.g., dorsolateral or vertebral stripes); 4) toe tips not developed into flattened disks; 5) presence of antebrachial tubercle; and 6) advertisement call consisting of a well-defined series of pulsed calls (7-32 calls/series) with progressive increment in amplitude in the first third of each call series when it reaches a sustained plateau. Adenomera juikitam sp. nov. is diagnosed from the other 16 congeneric species by its 1) dorsum profusely glandular/granular with no distinctive dorsal granular rows or dorsolateral folds; 2) dorsum with a marble-like and red coloration with no distinctive color patterns (e.g., dorsolateral or vertebral stripes); 3) toe tips not developed into flattened disks; 4) small size (adult male SVL 19.1-19.5 mm) and very robust body; and 5) long (148-202 ms) advertisement call composed of 16-21pulses. Both new taxa occur in syntopy, and our data allow us to differentiate them both in temporal (pulses/call) and spectral (frequency peaks) traits of their advertisement calls. Besides, dorsal coloration is distinctive, Adenomera cotuba sp. nov. has a black or very dark-colored dorsum, whereas Adenomera juikitam sp. nov. has a marble-like and red-colored dorsum, in addition to the presence (A. cotuba sp. nov.) or absence (A. juikitam sp. nov.) of antebrachial tubercle.

Performance of a docking/molecular dynamics protocol for virtual screening of nutlin-class inhibitors of Mdmx.

PubMed

Bharatham, Nagakumar; Finch, Kristin E; Min, Jaeki; Mayasundari, Anand; Dyer, Michael A; Guy, R Kiplin; Bashford, Donald

2017-06-01

A virtual screening protocol involving docking and molecular dynamics has been tested against the results of fluorescence polarization assays testing the potency of a series of compounds of the nutlin class for inhibition of the interaction between p53 and Mdmx, an interaction identified as a driver of certain cancers. The protocol uses a standard docking method (AutoDock) with a cutoff based on the AutoDock score (ADscore), followed by molecular dynamics simulation with a cutoff based on root-mean-square-deviation (RMSD) from the docked pose. An analysis of the experimental and computational results shows modest performance of ADscore alone, but dramatically improved performance when RMSD is also used. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Mars Sample Handling Protocol Workshop Series

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Race, Margaret S. (Editor); Nealson, Kenneth H.; Rummel, John D. (Editor); Acevedo, Sara E. (Editor); Devincenzi, Donald L. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This report provides a record of the proceedings and recommendations of Workshop 3 of the Series, which was held in San Diego, California, March 19-21, 2001. Materials such as the Workshop agenda and participant lists as well as complete citations of all references and a glossary of terms and acronyms appear in the Appendices. Workshop 3 builds on the deliberations and findings of the earlier workshops in the Series, which have been reported separately. During Workshop 3, five individual sub-groups were formed to discuss the following topics: (1) Unifying Properties of Life, (2) Morphological organization and chemical properties, (3) Geochemical and geophysical properties, (4) Chemical Method and (5) Cell Biology Methods.

Preparation of Regular Specimens for Atom Probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuhlman, Kim; Wishard, James

2003-01-01

A method of preparation of specimens of non-electropolishable materials for analysis by atom probes is being developed as a superior alternative to a prior method. In comparison with the prior method, the present method involves less processing time. Also, whereas the prior method yields irregularly shaped and sized specimens, the present developmental method offers the potential to prepare specimens of regular shape and size. The prior method is called the method of sharp shards because it involves crushing the material of interest and selecting microscopic sharp shards of the material for use as specimens. Each selected shard is oriented with its sharp tip facing away from the tip of a stainless-steel pin and is glued to the tip of the pin by use of silver epoxy. Then the shard is milled by use of a focused ion beam (FIB) to make the shard very thin (relative to its length) and to make its tip sharp enough for atom-probe analysis. The method of sharp shards is extremely time-consuming because the selection of shards must be performed with the help of a microscope, the shards must be positioned on the pins by use of micromanipulators, and the irregularity of size and shape necessitates many hours of FIB milling to sharpen each shard. In the present method, a flat slab of the material of interest (e.g., a polished sample of rock or a coated semiconductor wafer) is mounted in the sample holder of a dicing saw of the type conventionally used to cut individual integrated circuits out of the wafers on which they are fabricated in batches. A saw blade appropriate to the material of interest is selected. The depth of cut and the distance between successive parallel cuts is made such that what is left after the cuts is a series of thin, parallel ridges on a solid base. Then the workpiece is rotated 90 and the pattern of cuts is repeated, leaving behind a square array of square posts on the solid base. The posts can be made regular, long, and thin, as required for samples for atom-probe analysis. Because of their small volume and regularity, the amount of FIB-milling time can be much less than that of the method of sharp shards. Individual posts can be broken off for mounting in a manner similar to that of the method of sharp shards. Alternatively, the posts can be left intact on the base and the base can be cut to a small square (e.g., 3 by 3 mm) suitable for mounting in an atom probe of a type capable of accepting multiple-tip specimens. The advantage of multiple-tip specimens is the possibility of analyzing many tips without the time-consuming interchange of specimens.

Wind-tunnel test of an articulated helicopter rotor model with several tip shapes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berry, J. D.; Mineck, R. E.

1980-01-01

Six interchangeable tip shapes were tested: a square (baseline) tip, an ogee tip, a subwing tip, a swept tip, a winglet tip, and a short ogee tip. In hover at the lower rotational speeds the swept, ogee, and short ogee tips had about the same torque coefficient, and the subwing and winglet tips had a larger torque coefficient than the baseline square tip blades. The ogee and swept tip blades required less torque coefficient at lower rotational speeds and roughly equivalent torque coefficient at higher rotational speeds compared with the baseline square tip blades in forward flight. The short ogee tip required higher torque coefficient at higher lift coefficients than the baseline square tip blade in the forward flight test condition.

The duty of care 2: risk assessment and risk management.

PubMed

Fullbrook, Suzanne

In this second article in the series, the issue of risk assessment and management, in the context of a recent case, is revisited. The case in question is outlined in the previous article 'Compliance with directives and protocols'.

Demystifying MR Neurography of the Lumbosacral Plexus: From Protocols to Pathologies

PubMed Central

Muniz Neto, Francisco J.; Kihara Filho, Eduardo N.; Miranda, Frederico C.; Rosemberg, Laercio A.; Santos, Durval C. B.

2018-01-01

Magnetic resonance neurography is a high-resolution imaging technique that allows evaluating different neurological pathologies in correlation to clinical and the electrophysiological data. The aim of this article is to present a review on the anatomy of the lumbosacral plexus nerves, along with imaging protocols, interpretation pitfalls, and most common pathologies that should be recognized by the radiologist: traumatic, iatrogenic, entrapment, tumoral, infectious, and inflammatory conditions. An extensive series of clinical and imaging cases is presented to illustrate key-points throughout the article. PMID:29662907

Dependency of image quality on acquisition protocol and image processing in chest tomosynthesis-a visual grading study based on clinical data.

PubMed

Jadidi, Masoud; Båth, Magnus; Nyrén, Sven

2018-04-09

To compare the quality of images obtained with two different protocols with different acquisition time and the influence from image post processing in a chest digital tomosynthesis (DTS) system. 20 patients with suspected lung cancer were imaged with a chest X-ray equipment with tomosynthesis option. Two examination protocols with different acquisition times (6.3 and 12 s) were performed on each patient. Both protocols were presented with two different image post-processing (standard DTS processing and more advanced processing optimised for chest radiography). Thus, 4 series from each patient, altogether 80 series, were presented anonymously and in a random order. Five observers rated the quality of the reconstructed section images according to predefined quality criteria in three different classes. Visual grading characteristics (VGC) was used to analyse the data and the area under the VGC curve (AUC VGC ) was used as figure-of-merit. The 12 s protocol and the standard DTS processing were used as references in the analyses. The protocol with 6.3 s acquisition time had a statistically significant advantage over the vendor-recommended protocol with 12 s acquisition time for the classes of criteria, Demarcation (AUC VGC = 0.56, p = 0.009) and Disturbance (AUC VGC = 0.58, p < 0.001). A similar value of AUC VGC was found also for the class Structure (definition of bone structures in the spine) (0.56) but it could not be statistically separated from 0.5 (p = 0.21). For the image processing, the VGC analysis showed a small but statistically significant advantage for the standard DTS processing over the more advanced processing for the classes of criteria Demarcation (AUC VGC = 0.45, p = 0.017) and Disturbance (AUC VGC = 0.43, p = 0.005). A similar value of AUC VGC was found also for the class Structure (0.46), but it could not be statistically separated from 0.5 (p = 0.31). The study indicates that the protocol with 6.3 s acquisition time yields slightly better image quality than the vender-recommended protocol with acquisition time 12 s for several anatomical structures. Furthermore, the standard gradation processing  (the vendor-recommended post-processing for DTS), yields to some extent advantage over the gradation processing/multiobjective frequency processing/flexible noise control processing in terms of image quality for all classes of criteria. Advances in knowledge: The study proves that the image quality may be strongly affected by the selection of DTS protocol and that the vendor-recommended protocol may not always be the optimal choice.

75 FR 26889 - Airworthiness Directives; Arrow Falcon Exporters, Inc. (previously Utah State University) et al...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-13

... the forward tip weight retention block (tip block) or aft tip closure (tip closure), loss of the blade...) forward tip weight retention block (tip block) and the aft tip closure (tip closure) for adhesive bond... prevent loss of a tip block or tip closure, loss of a blade, and subsequent loss of control of the...

A Military-Relevant Model of Closed Concussive Head Injury: Longitudinal Studies Characterizing and Validating Single and Repetitive mTBI

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

processed at FD Neurotechnologies Inc. (Ellicott City, MD, USA). A series of coronal free floating brain sections (40 μm; 960 µm interval from +4.0...axonal damage. Another series of coronal sections was stained using FD NeuroSilverTM Kit II (FD Neurotechnologies Inc., Ellicott City, MD, USA) for... Neurotechnologies Inc for processing and staining. Tissue processing and staining protocols have been optimized for fluorescent staining of AQ4 co

Specialty pharmaceuticals: developing a management plan.

PubMed

Willcutts, Dave

2002-01-01

This is the first in a series of articles that address the complex issues associated with specialty pharmaceuticals in the development of a successful specialty pharmaceutical program, a critical component of managing this high-cost and highly fragmented sector. This article focuses on how to define specialty pharmaceuticals. Other articles in this series will explore such topics as the mechanics of developing and managing a specialty pharmaceutical program, how and when to establish clinical protocols and authorizations, the importance of data management, and the benefits from automated processes.

DESIGN ANALYSIS OF RADIAL INFLOW TURBINES

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glassman, A. J.

1994-01-01

This program performs a velocity-diagram analysis required for determining geometry and estimating performance for radial-inflow turbines. Input design requirements are power, mass flow rate, inlet temperature and pressure, and rotative rate. The design variables include stator-exit angle, rotor-exit-tip to rotor-inlet radius ratio, rotor-exit-hub to tip radius ratio, and the magnitude and radial distribution of rotor-exit tangential velocity. The program output includes diameters, total and static efficiences, all absolute and relative temperatures, pressures, and velocities, and flow angles at stator inlet, stator exit, rotor inlet, and rotor exit. Losses accounted for in this program by the internal loss model are three-dimensional (profile plus end wall) viscous losses in the stator and the rotor, the disk-friction loss on the back side of the rotor, the loss due to the clearance between the rotor tip and the outer casing, and the exit velocity loss. The flow analysis is one-dimensional at the stator inlet, stator exit, and rotor inlet, each of these calculation stations being at a constant radius. At the rotor exit where there is a variation in flow-field radius, an axisymmetric two-dimensional analysis is made using constant height sectors. Simple radial equilibrium is used to establish the static pressure gradient at the rotor exit. This program is written in FORTRAN V and has been implemented on a UNIVAC 1100 series computer with a memory requirement of approximately 22K of 36 bit words.

Closed retrograde retrieval of the distal broken segment of femoral cannulated intramedullary nail using a ball-tipped guide wire.

PubMed

Metikala, Sreenivasulu; Mohammed, Riazuddin

2011-07-01

Extracting broken segments of intramedullay nails from long bones can be an operative challenge, particularly from the distal end. We report a case series where a simple and reproducible technique of extracting broken femoral cannulated nails using a ball-tipped guide wire is described. This closed technique involves no additional equipment or instruments. Eight patients who underwent the described method were included in the study. The technique involves using a standard plain guide wire passed through the cannulated distal broken nail segment after extraction of the proximal nail fragment. The plain guide wire is then advanced distally into the knee joint carefully under fluoroscopy imaging. Over this wire, a 5-millimeter (mm) cannulated large drill bit is used to create a track up to the distal broken nail segment. Through the small knee wound, a ball-tipped guide wire is passed, smooth end first, till the ball engages the end of the nail. The guide wire is then extracted along with the broken nail through the proximal wound. The method was successfully used in all eight patients for removal of broken cannulated intramedullary nail from the femoral canal without any complications. All patients underwent exchange nailing with successful bone union in six months. None of the patients had any problems at the knee joint at the final follow-up. We report a technique for successful extraction of the distal fragment of broken femoral intramedullary nails without additional surgical approaches.

Management of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis with Plasmapheresis and Cyclosporine A: Our 10 Years’ Experience

PubMed Central

Giudice, Giuseppe; Maggio, Giulio; Bufano, Loredana; Memeo, Giuseppe

2017-01-01

Background: The management of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is controversial and there is no uniform strategy. Objective: To share our 10 years’ experience in treating severe TEN with a novel protocol based on the association of cyclosporine A and plasmapheresis. Methods: In this case series, we retrospectively collected and assessed the 12 cases of severe TEN treated from 2005 to 2015 at the Burn Unit of the University of Bari Policlinico hospital. Results: Average body surface area was 77; average SCORETEN was 4.3. The 12 patients had been treated with culprit drug withdrawal, systemic corticosteroids, and/or cyclosporine A with no response. The protocol was successfully administered in all 12 cases. Average time to response from protocol start was 4.9 days. Average time to remission from protocol start was 22 days; average hospital stay at our unit was 24.8 days. Four patients developed severe complications; 1 patient died. No complications linked to the protocol therapeutic measures were observed. The relatively small number of cases given the rarity of the condition is a limitation of this report. Conclusion: Our protocol based on the association of cyclosporine A and plasmapheresis is safe and efficacious in treating severe TEN. PMID:28280663

Verification and validation of a reliable multicast protocol

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Callahan, John R.; Montgomery, Todd L.

1995-01-01

This paper describes the methods used to specify and implement a complex communications protocol that provides reliable delivery of data in multicast-capable, packet-switching telecommunication networks. The protocol, called the Reliable Multicasting Protocol (RMP), was developed incrementally by two complementary teams using a combination of formal and informal techniques in an attempt to ensure the correctness of the protocol implementation. The first team, called the Design team, initially specified protocol requirements using a variant of SCR requirements tables and implemented a prototype solution. The second team, called the V&V team, developed a state model based on the requirements tables and derived test cases from these tables to exercise the implementation. In a series of iterative steps, the Design team added new functionality to the implementation while the V&V team kept the state model in fidelity with the implementation through testing. Test cases derived from state transition paths in the formal model formed the dialogue between teams during development and served as the vehicles for keeping the model and implementation in fidelity with each other. This paper describes our experiences in developing our process model, details of our approach, and some example problems found during the development of RMP.

Micropropagation of pear (Pyrus sp.).

PubMed

Reed, Barbara M; Denoma, Jeanine; Wada, Sugae; Postman, Joseph

2013-01-01

Elements of micropropagation include establishment of shoot tip cultures, proliferation, rooting, and acclimatization of the resulting plantlets. The wide genetic variation in Pyrus makes micropropagation challenging for many genotypes. Initiation of shoots is most successful from forced dormant shoots or from scions grafted onto seedling rootstocks to impose juvenility. Clean shoots are recovered after testing for contaminants at the initiation stage on ½ strength Murashige and Skoog 1962 medium (MS), at pH 6.9 for 1 week or by streaking on nutrient agar. Although pear species and cultivars are cultured on several well-known media, MS is the most commonly used. Our studies showed that multiplication and growth of shoots are best on Pear Medium with higher concentrations of calcium chloride, potassium phosphate, and magnesium sulfate than MS medium and 4.4 μM N(6) benzyladenine. Pear shoots are often recalcitrant to rooting; however, a 5 s dip in 10 mM indole-3-butyric acid or naphthalene acetic acid before planting on basal medium without plant growth regulators is effective for many genotypes. Pear shoots store well at 1-4°C, and can hold for as long as 4 years without reculture. Cryopreservation protocols are available for long-term storage of pear shoot tips. Acclimation of in vitro-rooted or micrografted shoots in a mist bed follows standard procedures.

Virtual reality visual feedback for hand-controlled scanning probe microscopy manipulation of single molecules.

PubMed

Leinen, Philipp; Green, Matthew F B; Esat, Taner; Wagner, Christian; Tautz, F Stefan; Temirov, Ruslan

2015-01-01

Controlled manipulation of single molecules is an important step towards the fabrication of single molecule devices and nanoscale molecular machines. Currently, scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is the only technique that facilitates direct imaging and manipulations of nanometer-sized molecular compounds on surfaces. The technique of hand-controlled manipulation (HCM) introduced recently in Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2014, 5, 1926-1932 simplifies the identification of successful manipulation protocols in situations when the interaction pattern of the manipulated molecule with its environment is not fully known. Here we present a further technical development that substantially improves the effectiveness of HCM. By adding Oculus Rift virtual reality goggles to our HCM set-up we provide the experimentalist with 3D visual feedback that displays the currently executed trajectory and the position of the SPM tip during manipulation in real time, while simultaneously plotting the experimentally measured frequency shift (Δf) of the non-contact atomic force microscope (NC-AFM) tuning fork sensor as well as the magnitude of the electric current (I) flowing between the tip and the surface. The advantages of the set-up are demonstrated by applying it to the model problem of the extraction of an individual PTCDA molecule from its hydrogen-bonded monolayer grown on Ag(111) surface.

Experimental vitrification of human compacted morulae and early blastocysts using fine diameter plastic micropipettes.

PubMed

Cremades, N; Sousa, M; Silva, J; Viana, P; Sousa, S; Oliveira, C; Teixeira da Silva, J; Barros, A

2004-02-01

Vitrification of human blastocysts has been successfully applied using grids, straws and cryoloops. We assessed the survival rate of human compacted morulae and early blastocysts vitrified in pipette tips with a smaller inner diameter and solution volume than the previously described open pulled straw (OPS) method. Excess day 5 human embryos (n = 63) were experimentally vitrified in vessels. Embryos were incubated at 37 degrees C with sperm preparation medium (SPM) for 1 min, SPM + 7.5% ethylene glycol (EG)/dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) for 3 min, and SPM + 16.5% EG + 16.5% DMSO + 0.67 mol/l sucrose for 25 s. They were then aspirated (0.5 microl) into a plastic micropipette tip (0.36 mm inner diameter), exposed to liquid nitrogen (LN(2)) vapour for 2 min before being placed into a pre-cooled cryotube, which was then closed and plunged into LN(2). Embryos were warmed and diluted using 0.33 mol/l and 0.2 mol/l sucrose. The survival rate for compacted morulae was 73% (22/30) and 82% (27/33) for early blastocysts. The survival rates of human compacted morulae and early blastocysts after vitrification with this simple technique are similar to those reported in the literature achieved by slow cooling and other vitrification protocols.

Automated scanning probe lithography with n-alkanethiol self assembled monolayers on Au(111): Application for teaching undergraduate laboratories

PubMed Central

Brown, Treva T.; LeJeune, Zorabel M.; Liu, Kai; Hardin, Sean; Li, Jie-Ren; Rupnik, Kresimir; Garno, Jayne C.

2010-01-01

Controllers for scanning probe instruments can be programmed for automated lithography to generate desired surface arrangements of nanopatterns of organic thin films, such as n-alkanethiol self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). In this report, atomic force microscopy (AFM) methods of lithography known as nanoshaving and nanografting are used to write nanopatterns within organic thin films. Commercial instruments provide software to control the length, direction, speed, and applied force of the scanning motion of the tip. For nanoshaving, higher forces are applied to an AFM tip to selectively remove regions of the matrix monolayer, exposing bare areas of the gold substrate. Nanografting is accomplished by force-induced displacement of molecules of a matrix SAM, followed immediately by the surface self-assembly of n-alkanethiol molecules from solution. Advancements in AFM automation enable rapid protocols for nanolithography, which can be accomplished within the tight time restraints of undergraduate laboratories. Example experiments with scanning probe lithography (SPL) will be described in this report that were accomplished by undergraduate students during laboratory course activities and research internships in the chemistry department of Louisiana State University. Students were introduced to principles of surface analysis and gained “hands-on” experience with nanoscale chemistry. PMID:21483651

Biodegradable 3D printed polymer microneedles for transdermal drug delivery.

PubMed

Luzuriaga, Michael A; Berry, Danielle R; Reagan, John C; Smaldone, Ronald A; Gassensmith, Jeremiah J

2018-04-17

Biodegradable polymer microneedle (MN) arrays are an emerging class of transdermal drug delivery devices that promise a painless and sanitary alternative to syringes; however, prototyping bespoke needle architectures is expensive and requires production of new master templates. Here, we present a new microfabrication technique for MNs using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing using polylactic acid, an FDA approved, renewable, biodegradable, thermoplastic material. We show how this natural degradability can be exploited to overcome a key challenge of FDM 3D printing, in particular the low resolution of these printers. We improved the feature size of the printed parts significantly by developing a post fabrication chemical etching protocol, which allowed us to access tip sizes as small as 1 μm. With 3D modeling software, various MN shapes were designed and printed rapidly with custom needle density, length, and shape. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that our method resulted in needle tip sizes in the range of 1-55 μm, which could successfully penetrate and break off into porcine skin. We have also shown that these MNs have comparable mechanical strengths to currently fabricated MNs and we further demonstrated how the swellability of PLA can be exploited to load small molecule drugs and how its degradability in skin can release those small molecules over time.

High-resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) - Simple and Robust Protocols for Processing and Visualizing Organic Materials

PubMed Central

Geyer, Stefan H.; Maurer-Gesek, Barbara; Reissig, Lukas F.; Weninger, Wolfgang J.

2017-01-01

We provide simple protocols for generating digital volume data with the high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) method. HREM is capable of imaging organic materials with volumes up to 5 x 5 x 7 mm3 in typical numeric resolutions between 1 x 1 x 1 and 5 x 5 x 5 µm3. Specimens are embedded in methacrylate resin and sectioned on a microtome. After each section an image of the block surface is captured with a digital video camera that sits on the phototube connected to the compound microscope head. The optical axis passes through a green fluorescent protein (GFP) filter cube and is aligned with a position, at which the bock holder arm comes to rest after each section. In this way, a series of inherently aligned digital images, displaying subsequent block surfaces are produced. Loading such an image series in three-dimensional (3D) visualization software facilitates the immediate conversion to digital volume data, which permit virtual sectioning in various orthogonal and oblique planes and the creation of volume and surface rendered computer models. We present three simple, tissue specific protocols for processing various groups of organic specimens, including mouse, chick, quail, frog and zebra fish embryos, human biopsy material, uncoated paper and skin replacement material. PMID:28715372

High-resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) - Simple and Robust Protocols for Processing and Visualizing Organic Materials.

PubMed

Geyer, Stefan H; Maurer-Gesek, Barbara; Reissig, Lukas F; Weninger, Wolfgang J

2017-07-07

We provide simple protocols for generating digital volume data with the high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) method. HREM is capable of imaging organic materials with volumes up to 5 x 5 x 7 mm 3 in typical numeric resolutions between 1 x 1 x 1 and 5 x 5 x 5 µm 3 . Specimens are embedded in methacrylate resin and sectioned on a microtome. After each section an image of the block surface is captured with a digital video camera that sits on the phototube connected to the compound microscope head. The optical axis passes through a green fluorescent protein (GFP) filter cube and is aligned with a position, at which the bock holder arm comes to rest after each section. In this way, a series of inherently aligned digital images, displaying subsequent block surfaces are produced. Loading such an image series in three-dimensional (3D) visualization software facilitates the immediate conversion to digital volume data, which permit virtual sectioning in various orthogonal and oblique planes and the creation of volume and surface rendered computer models. We present three simple, tissue specific protocols for processing various groups of organic specimens, including mouse, chick, quail, frog and zebra fish embryos, human biopsy material, uncoated paper and skin replacement material.

SeaWiFS technical report series. Volume 5: Ocean optics protocols for SeaWiFS validation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, James L.; Austin, Roswell W.; Hooker, Stanford B. (Editor); Firestone, Elaine R. (Editor)

1992-01-01

Protocols are presented for measuring optical properties, and other environmental variables, to validate the radiometric performance of the Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS), and to develop and validate bio-optical algorithms for use with SeaWiFS data. The protocols are intended to establish foundations for a measurement strategy to verify the challenging SeaWiFS accuracy goals of 5 percent in water-leaving radiances and 35 percent in chlorophyll alpha concentration. The protocols first specify the variables which must be measured, and briefly review rationale. Subsequent chapters cover detailed protocols for instrument performance specifications, characterizing and calibration instruments, methods of making measurements in the field, and methods of data analysis. These protocols were developed at a workshop sponsored by the SeaWiFS Project Office (SPO) and held at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California (9-12 April, 1991). This report is the proceedings of that workshop, as interpreted and expanded by the authors and reviewed by workshop participants and other members of the bio-optical research community. The protocols are a first prescription to approach unprecedented measurement accuracies implied by the SeaWiFS goals, and research and development are needed to improve the state-of-the-art in specific areas. The protocols should be periodically revised to reflect technical advances during the SeaWiFS Project cycle.

Vibration energy harvesting based on integrated piezoelectric components operating in different modes.

PubMed

Hu, Junhui; Jong, Januar; Zhao, Chunsheng

2010-01-01

To increase the vibration energy-harvesting capability of the piezoelectric generator based on a cantilever beam, we have proposed a piezoelectric generator that not only uses the strain change of piezoelectric components bonded on a cantilever beam, but also employs the weights at the tip of the cantilever beam to hit piezoelectric components located on the 2 sides of weights. A prototype of the piezoelectric generator has been fabricated and its characteristics have been measured and analyzed. The experimental results show that the piezoelectric components operating in the hit mode can substantially enhance the energy harvesting of the piezoelectric generator on a cantilever beam. Two methods are used and compared in the management of rectified output voltages from different groups of piezoelectric components. In one of them, the DC voltages from rectifiers are connected in series, and then the total DC voltage is applied to a capacitor. In another connection, the DC voltage from each group is applied to different capacitors. It is found that 22.3% of the harvested energy is wasted due to the series connection. The total output electric energy of our piezoelectric generator at nonresonance could be up to 43 nJ for one vibration excitation applied by spring, with initial vibration amplitude (0-p) of 18 mm and frequency of 18.5 Hz, when the rectified voltages from different groups of piezoelectric components are connected to their individual capacitors. In addition, the motion and impact of the weights at the tip of the cantilever beam are theoretically analyzed, which well explains the experimental phenomena and suggests the measures to improve the generator.

Vertical canaliculotomy with retrograde expression of concretions for the treatment of canaliculitis.

PubMed

Perumal, Balaji; Meyer, Dale R

2015-01-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the technique of vertical canaliculotomy with retrograde expression of concretions for the treatment of canaliculitis. This is a retrospective, interventional case series. Patients who underwent vertical canaliculotomy by 1 surgeon (D.R.M.) from August 2011 to December 2013 were identified. On initial diagnosis of canaliculitis, all patients were treated with a combination antibiotic/steroid eyedrop and an oral antibiotic. The procedure was performed 1 month later and consisted of a 2-mm vertical canaliculotomy with sharp-tipped scissors followed by retrograde expression of the canalicular contents by compressing the canaliculus medial to lateral with 2 cotton-tipped applicators. All concretion specimens were sent for pathologic examination. Pre- and postoperative subjective complaints and objective findings on examination, including eyelid thickening and probing/irrigation results, were recorded. Canalicular contents were readily expressed from all 8 patients who underwent the procedure. Pathologic analysis revealed Actinomyces species in 5 of 8 specimens and other Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria in the remaining specimens. All patients reported significant improvement in their symptoms and were patent to irrigation. Many reported surgical procedures for the treatment of canaliculitis involve the use of a curette, an instrument with sharp edges, that could potentially damage the lining of the canaliculus. Previous studies examining these procedures have reported canalicular stricture and dysfunction postoperatively. The current technique of vertical canaliculotomy with retrograde expression of canalicular contents described herein has been effective, limits iatrogenic trauma, and had a low incidence of postoperative complications in this series.

An actuated force feedback-enabled laparoscopic instrument for robotic-assisted surgery.

PubMed

Moradi Dalvand, Mohsen; Shirinzadeh, Bijan; Shamdani, Amir Hossein; Smith, Julian; Zhong, Yongmin

2014-03-01

Robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery systems not only have the advantages of traditional laparoscopic instruments but also have other important advantages, including restoring the surgeon's hand-eye coordination and improving the surgeon's precision by filtering hand tremors. Unfortunately, these benefits have come at the expense of the surgeon's ability to feel. Various solutions for restoring this feature have been proposed. An actuated modular force feedback-enabled laparoscopic instrument was proposed that is able to measure tip-tissue lateral interaction forces as well as normal grasping forces. The instrument has also the capability to adjust the grasping direction inside the patient body. In order to measure the interaction forces, strain gauges were employed. A series of finite element analyses were performed to gain an understanding of the actual magnitude of surface strains where gauges are applied. The strain gauge bridge configurations were calibrated. A series of experiments was conducted and the results were analysed. The modularity feature of the proposed instrument makes it interchangeable between various tip types of different functionalities (e.g. cutter, grasper, dissector). Calibration results of the strain gauges incorporated into the tube and at the base of the instrument presented the monotonic responses for these strain gauge configurations. Experimental results from tissue probing and tissue characterization experiments verified the capability of the proposed instrument in measuring lateral probing forces and characterizing artificial tissue samples of varying stiffness. The proposed instrument can improve the quality of palpation and characterization of soft tissues of varying stiffness by restoring sense of touch in robotic assisted minimally invasive surgery operations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effect of toughened epoxy resin on partial discharge at solid-solid interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Manping; Wu, Kai; Zhang, Zhao; Cheng, Yonghong

2017-02-01

A series of solid-solid interfaces, consisting of ceramic-epoxy resin interface samples with a tip-plate electrode, were investigated by performing partial discharge tests and real-time electrical tree observations. A toughening agent was added to the epoxy resin at different ratios for comparison. The impact strength, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dielectric properties of the cured compositions and ceramic were tested. The electric field strength at the tip was calculated based on Maxwell’s theory. The test results show that the addition of a toughener can improve the impact strength of epoxy resin but it decreases the partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV) of the interface sample. At the same time, toughening leads to complex branches of the electrical tree. The simulation result suggests that this reduction of the PDIV cannot be explained by a change of permittivity due to the addition of a toughening agent. The microstructural change caused by toughening was considered to be the key factor for lower PDIV and complex electrical tree branches. Supported by China Academy of Engineering Physics (Project 2014B05005).

Nanoscale Trapping and Squeeze-Out of Confined Alkane Monolayers.

PubMed

Gosvami, N N; O'Shea, S J

2015-12-01

We present combined force curve and conduction atomic force microscopy (AFM) data for the linear alkanes CnH2n+2 (n = 10, 12, 14, 16) confined between a gold-coated AFM tip and a graphite surface. Solvation layering is observed in the force curves for all liquids, and conduction AFM is used to study in detail the removal of the confined (mono)layer closest to the graphite surface. The squeeze-out behavior of the monolayer can be very different depending upon the temperature. Below the monolayer melting transition temperatures the molecules are in an ordered state on the graphite surface, and fast and complete removal of the confined molecules is observed. However, above the melting transition temperature the molecules are in a disordered state, and even at large applied pressure a few liquid molecules are trapped within the tip-sample contact zone. These findings are similar to a previous study for branched alkanes [ Gosvami Phys. Rev. Lett. 2008, 100, 076101 ], but the observation for the linear alkane homologue series demonstrates clearly the dependence of the squeeze-out and trapping on the state of the confined material.

Characteristics of the Swirling Flow Generated by an Axial Swirler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fu, Yongqiang; Jeng, San-Mou; Tacina, Robert

2005-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted to study the aerodynamic characteristics of the confined, non-reacting, swirling flow field. The flow was generated by a helicoidal axial-vaned swirler with a short internal convergent-divergent venturi, which was confined within 2-inch square test section. A series of helicoidal axial-vaned swirlers have been designed with tip vane angles of 40 deg., 45 deg., 50 deg., 55 deg., 60 deg. and 65 deg.. The swirler with the tip vane angle of 60 deg. was combined with several simulated fuel nozzle insertions of varying lengths. A two-component Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) system was employed to measure the three-component mean velocities and Reynolds stresses. Detailed data are provided to enhance understanding swirling flow with different swirl degrees and geometries and to support the development of more accurate physicaVnumerica1 models. The data indicated that the degree of swirl had a clear impact on the mean and turbulent flow fields. The swirling flow fields changed significantly with the addition of a variety of simulated fuel nozzle insertion lengths

Toward a better understanding of helicopter stability derivatives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, R. S.

1982-01-01

An amended six degree of freedom helicopter stability and control derivative model was developed in which body acceleration and control rate derivatives were included in the Taylor series expansion. These additional derivatives were derived from consideration of the effects of the higher order rotor flapping dynamics, which are known to be inadequately represented in the conventional six degree of freedom, quasistatic stability derivative model. The amended model was a substantial improvement over the conventional model, effectively doubling the unsable bandwidth and providing a more accurate representation of the short period and cross axis characteristics. Further investigations assessed the applicability of the two stability derivative model structures for flight test parameter identification. Parameters were identified using simulation data generated from a higher order base line model having sixth order rotor tip path plane dynamics. Three lower order models were identified: one using the conventional stability derivative model structure, a second using the amended six degree of freedom model structure, and a third model having eight degrees of freedom that included a simplified rotor tip path plane tilt representation.

Influence of blade tip rounding on tip leakage vortex cavitation of axial flow pump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, S. Q.; Shi, W. D.; Zhang, D. S.; Yao, J.; Cheng, C.

2013-12-01

Tip leakage flow in axial flow pumps is mainly caused by the tip clearance, which is the main cause of tip leakage vortex cavitation and blade tip cavitation erosion. In order to improve tip clearance flow and reduce TLV cavitation, four schemes were adopted to the round blade tip. These are: no tip rounding, one time tip clearance tip rounding, two times tip clearance tip rounding, four times tip clearance tip rounding. Using SST k-ω turbulence model and Zwart cavitation model in CFX software, this simulation obtained four kinds of inner flow field results. The numerical results indicated that with the increase of r*, NPSHc gradually increased and the cavitation performance reduced. However, corner vortex was eliminated so that cavitation in gap was restrained. But TLV vorticity increased and cavitation's range here had a little expansion. Combined with the research of this paper and the different analyses of four schemes, we recommend adopting the two times of the tip clearance rounding.

Wind-Tunnel Tests on a Series of Wing Models Through a Large Angle of Attack Range. Part I : Force Tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, Montgomery; Wenzinger, Carl J

1930-01-01

This investigation covers force tests through a large range of angle of attack on a series of monoplane and biplane wing models. The tests were conducted in the atmospheric wind tunnel of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. The models were arranged in such a manner as to make possible a determination of the effects of variations in tip shape, aspect ratio, flap setting, stagger, gap, decalage, sweep back, and airfoil profile. The arrangements represented most of the types of wing systems in use on modern airplanes. The effect of each variable is illustrated by means of groups of curves. In addition, there are included approximate autorotational characteristics in the form of calculated ranges of "rotary instability." a correction for blocking in this tunnel which applies to monoplanes at large angles of attack has been developed, and is given in an appendix. (author)

Strain Measurements within Fibre Boards. Part II: Strain Concentrations at the Crack Tip of MDF Specimens Tested by the Wedge Splitting Method

PubMed Central

Sinn, Gerhard; Müller, Ulrich; Konnerth, Johannes; Rathke, Jörn

2012-01-01

This is the second part of an article series where the mechanical and fracture mechanical properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF) were studied. While the first part of the series focused on internal bond strength and density profiles, this article discusses the fracture mechanical properties of the core layer. Fracture properties were studied with a wedge splitting setup. The critical stress intensity factors as well as the specific fracture energies were determined. Critical stress intensity factors were calculated from maximum splitting force and two-dimensional isotropic finite elements simulations of the specimen geometry. Size and shape of micro crack zone were measured with electronic laser speckle interferometry. The process zone length was approx. 5 mm. The specific fracture energy was determined to be 45.2 ± 14.4 J/m2 and the critical stress intensity factor was 0.11 ± 0.02 MPa.

Design and wind tunnel tests of winglets on a DC-10 wing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilkey, R. D.

1979-01-01

Results are presented of a wind tunnel test utilizing a 4.7 percent scale semi-span model in the Langley Research Center 8-foot transonic pressure wind tunnel to establish the cruise drag improvement potential of winglets as applied to the DC-10 wide body transport aircraft. Winglets were investigated on both the DC-10 Series 10 (domestic) and 30/40 (intercontinental) configurations and compared with the Series 30/40 configuration. The results of the investigation confirm that for the DC-10 winglets provide approximately twice the cruise drag reduction of wing-tip extensions for about the same increase in bending moment at the wing fuselage juncture. Furthermore, the winglet configurations achieved drag improvements which were in close agreement to analytical estimates. It was observed that relatively small changes in wing-winglet tailoring effected large improvements in drag and visual flow characteristics. All final winglet configurations exhibited visual flow characteristics on the wing and winglets

Preparation of isolated biomolecules for SFM observations: T4 bacteriophage as a test sample.

PubMed Central

Droz, E; Taborelli, M; Wells, T N; Descouts, P

1993-01-01

The T4 bacteriophage has been used to investigate protocols for the preparation of samples for scanning force microscopy in air, in order to obtaining reproducible images. The resolution of images and the distribution of bacteriophages on the substrate depends on the buffer type, its concentration, the surface treatment of substrate, and the method of deposition. The best imaging conditions for the phages require dilution in a volatile buffer at low ionic strength and adsorption onto hydrophilic surfaces. When imaging with the scanning force microscopy the quality of the images is influenced by the vertical and lateral forces applied on the sample and by the tip geometry. Images FIGURE 1 FIGURE 2 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6 PMID:8241398

Synthesis of gold nanoflowers using deep eutectic solvent with high surface enhanced Raman scattering properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aghakhani Mahyari, Farzaneh; Tohidi, Maryam; Safavi, Afsaneh

2016-09-01

A facile, seed-less and one-pot method was developed for synthesis of gold nanoflowers with multiple tips through reduction of HAuCl4 with deep eutectic solvent at room temperature. This solvent is eco-friendly, low-cost, non-toxic and biodegradable and can act as both reducing and shape-controlling agent. In this protocol, highly branched and stable gold nanoflowers were obtained without using any capping agent. The obtained products were characterized by different techniques including, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and UV-vis spectroscopy. The as-prepared gold nanoflowers exhibit efficient surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) properties which can be used as excellent substrates for SERS.

Development and implementation of clinical trial protocol templates at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

PubMed

Bridge, Heather; Smolskis, Mary; Bianchine, Peter; Dixon, Dennis O; Kelly, Grace; Herpin, Betsey; Tavel, Jorge

2009-08-01

A clinical research protocol document must reflect both sound scientific rationale as well as local, national and, when applicable, international regulatory and human subject protections requirements. These requirements originate from a variety of sources, undergo frequent revision and are subject to interpretation. Tools to assist clinical investigators in the production of clinical protocols could facilitate navigating these requirements and ultimately increase the efficiency of clinical research. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) developed templates for investigators to serve as the foundation for protocol development. These protocol templates are designed as tools to support investigators in developing clinical protocols. NIAID established a series of working groups to determine how to improve its capacity to conduct clinical research more efficiently and effectively. The Protocol Template Working Group was convened to determine what protocol templates currently existed within NIAID and whether standard NIAID protocol templates should be produced. After review and assessment of existing protocol documents and requirements, the group reached consensus about required and optional content, determined the format and identified methods for distribution as well as education of investigators in the use of these templates. The templates were approved by the NIAID Executive Committee in 2006 and posted as part of the NIAID Clinical Research Toolkit [1] website for broad access. These documents require scheduled revisions to stay current with regulatory and policy changes. The structure of any clinical protocol template, whether comprehensive or specific to a particular study phase, setting or design, affects how it is used by investigators. Each structure presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages. While useful, protocol templates are not stand-alone tools for creating an optimal protocol document, but must be complemented by institutional resources and support. Education and guidance of investigators in the appropriate use of templates is necessary to ensure a complete yet concise protocol document. Due to changing regulatory requirements, clinical protocol templates cannot become static, but require frequent revisions.

An experimental investigation of free-tip response to a jet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, L. A.

1986-01-01

The aerodynamic response of passively oscillating tips appended to a model helicopter rotor was investigated during a whirl test. Tip responsiveness was found to meet free-tip rotor requirements. Experimental and analytical estimates of the free-tip aerodynamic spring, mechanical spring, and aerodynamic damping were calculated and compared. The free tips were analytically demonstrated to be operating outside the tip resonant response region at full-scale tip speeds. Further, tip resonance was shown to be independent of tip speed, given the assumption that the tip forcing frequency is linearly dependent upon the rotor rotational speed.

Air pollution effects on food quality. 2nd annual progress report

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

Pell, E.J.

1979-02-01

Progress is reported in studies to determine the effect of acute, toxic exposures of ozone to alfalfa, potato, and soybean plants. The objective has been to correlate the foliar response with alterations in quality of the edible portion of the plant viz. the leaf, tuber and seed of alfalfa, potato and soybean, respectively. In 1977 we (1) modified our fumigation facilities, (2) developed protocol for studies with alfalfa and potato, and (3) conducted studies on flavonoid status of alfalfa and a series of parameters of potato tubers. In 1978 we (1) conducted more indepth studies with alfalfa, (2) repeated themore » potato study, (3) began to develop protocol for measuring additional parameters of alfalfa and potato quality, and (4) developed protocol for cultivating and exposing soybean plants.« less

The Biographical Personality Interview (BPI)--a new approach to the assessment of premorbid personality in psychiatric research. Part I: Development of the instrument.

PubMed

von Zerssen, D; Pössl, J; Hecht, H; Black, C; Garczynski, E; Barthelmes, H

1998-01-01

The Biographical Personality Interview (BPI) is a research instrument for the retrospective assessment of premorbid personality traits of psychiatric patients. Its construction is based on results of a series of investigations in which biographical data from psychiatric case notes were analysed with respect to premorbid personality traits. In order to avoid methodological shortcomings of the utilisation of clinical records, an interview technique was developed. It is applied by two independent, specially trained investigators who are kept "blind" regarding any clinical data of the subject under study. One of them has to conduct the interview of a clinically remitted patient and to provide an interview protocol, the other one has to rate personality traits from that protocol along a large series of purely descriptive items. Sum scores for six personality structures ("types") are calculated and the case is then assigned to the intra-individually dominating personality type according to the highest of these scores.

A web service system supporting three-dimensional post-processing of medical images based on WADO protocol.

PubMed

He, Longjun; Xu, Lang; Ming, Xing; Liu, Qian

2015-02-01

Three-dimensional post-processing operations on the volume data generated by a series of CT or MR images had important significance on image reading and diagnosis. As a part of the DIOCM standard, WADO service defined how to access DICOM objects on the Web, but it didn't involve three-dimensional post-processing operations on the series images. This paper analyzed the technical features of three-dimensional post-processing operations on the volume data, and then designed and implemented a web service system for three-dimensional post-processing operations of medical images based on the WADO protocol. In order to improve the scalability of the proposed system, the business tasks and calculation operations were separated into two modules. As results, it was proved that the proposed system could support three-dimensional post-processing service of medical images for multiple clients at the same moment, which met the demand of accessing three-dimensional post-processing operations on the volume data on the web.

Methods for Detecting Early Warnings of Critical Transitions in Time Series Illustrated Using Simulated Ecological Data

PubMed Central

Dakos, Vasilis; Carpenter, Stephen R.; Brock, William A.; Ellison, Aaron M.; Guttal, Vishwesha; Ives, Anthony R.; Kéfi, Sonia; Livina, Valerie; Seekell, David A.; van Nes, Egbert H.; Scheffer, Marten

2012-01-01

Many dynamical systems, including lakes, organisms, ocean circulation patterns, or financial markets, are now thought to have tipping points where critical transitions to a contrasting state can happen. Because critical transitions can occur unexpectedly and are difficult to manage, there is a need for methods that can be used to identify when a critical transition is approaching. Recent theory shows that we can identify the proximity of a system to a critical transition using a variety of so-called ‘early warning signals’, and successful empirical examples suggest a potential for practical applicability. However, while the range of proposed methods for predicting critical transitions is rapidly expanding, opinions on their practical use differ widely, and there is no comparative study that tests the limitations of the different methods to identify approaching critical transitions using time-series data. Here, we summarize a range of currently available early warning methods and apply them to two simulated time series that are typical of systems undergoing a critical transition. In addition to a methodological guide, our work offers a practical toolbox that may be used in a wide range of fields to help detect early warning signals of critical transitions in time series data. PMID:22815897

The acute effects of manipulating volume and load of back squats on countermovement vertical jump performance.

PubMed

Moir, Gavin L; Mergy, David; Witmer, Ca; Davis, Shala E

2011-06-01

The acute effects of manipulating the volume and load of back squats on subsequent countermovement vertical jump performance were investigated in the present study. Eleven National Collegiate Athletic Association division II female volleyball players performed 10 countermovement vertical jumps (CMJs) on a force platform 2 minutes after the last squat repetition of a high-load (HL) or high-volume (HV) squat protocol. Two minutes of rest was provided between each CMJ. The HL protocol culminated in the subjects having to perform 3 repetitions with a load equivalent to 90% 1 repetition maximum (1RM) back squat, whereas 12 repetitions with a load equivalent to 37% 1RM were performed in the HV protocol. During an initial familiarization session, knee angles were recorded during a series of CMJs, and these angles were used to control the depth of descent during all subsequent back squats. Jump height (JH) and vertical stiffness (VStiff) were calculated during each of the 10 CMJ, and the change in these variables after the 2 squat protocols was assessed using an analysis of variance model with repeated measures on 2 factors (Protocol [2-levels]; Time [2-levels]). There was no significant difference in JH after the HL and HV protocols (p > 0.05). A significant Protocol × Time interaction for VStiff resulted from the increase after the HL protocol being greater than that after the HV protocol (p = 0.03). The knee angles before the HL and HV protocols were significantly greater than those measured during the initial familiarization session (p = 0.001). Although neither squat protocol provided any benefit in improving JH, the heavy squat protocol produced greater increases in VStiff during the CMJ. Because of the increased VStiff caused by the HL protocol, volleyball coaches may consider using such protocols with their players to improve performance in jumps performed from a run such as the spike and on-court agility.

Comparison of Various Supersonic Turbine Tip Designs to Minimize Aerodynamic Loss and Tip Heating

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shyam, Vikram; Ameri, Ali

2012-01-01

The rotor tips of axial turbines experience high heat flux and are the cause of aerodynamic losses due to tip clearance flows, and in the case of supersonic tips, shocks. As stage loadings increase, the flow in the tip gap approaches and exceeds sonic conditions. This introduces effects such as shock-boundary layer interactions and choked flow that are not observed for subsonic tip flows that have been studied extensively in literature. This work simulates the tip clearance flow for a flat tip, a diverging tip gap and several contoured tips to assess the possibility of minimizing tip heat flux while maintaining a constant massflow from the pressure side to the suction side of the rotor, through the tip clearance. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code GlennHT was used for the simulations. Due to the strong favorable pressure gradients the simulations assumed laminar conditions in the tip gap. The nominal tip gap width to height ratio for this study is 6.0. The Reynolds number of the flow is 2.4 x 10(exp 5) based on nominal tip width and exit velocity. A wavy wall design was found to reduce heat flux by 5 percent but suffered from an additional 6 percent in aerodynamic loss coefficient. Conventional tip recesses are found to perform far worse than a flat tip due to severe shock heating. Overall, the baseline flat tip was the second best performer. A diverging converging tip gap with a hole was found to be the best choice. Average tip heat flux was reduced by 37 percent and aerodynamic losses were cut by over 6 percent.

Treatment of unwanted hair in auricular reconstruction.

PubMed

Gault, David

2009-08-01

In many microtia patients, the hairline is lower than ideal. Despite this, it is essential to position the reconstructed ear in the correct place. Here is a series of tips and tricks to deal with unwanted hair on the skin that covers an autogenous tissue reconstruction. Replacement of the skin with a fascial flap and skin graft remains the mainstay of treatment for a very-low-hairline case. Surgical removal of hair on the helical rim during the release procedure is also described. Laser depilation, surgical electrolysis, and even shaving techniques are also discussed. Copyright Thieme Medical Publishers.

Dental optical coherence domain reflectometry explorer

DOEpatents

Everett, Matthew J.; Colston, Jr., Billy W.; Sathyam, Ujwal S.; Da Silva, Luiz B.

2001-01-01

A hand-held, fiber optic based dental device with optical coherence domain reflectometry (OCDR) sensing capabilities provides a profile of optical scattering as a function of depth in the tissue at the point where the tip of the dental explorer touches the tissue. This system provides information on the internal structure of the dental tissue, which is then used to detect caries and periodontal disease. A series of profiles of optical scattering or tissue microstructure are generated by moving the explorer across the tooth or other tissue. The profiles are combined to form a cross-sectional, or optical coherence tomography (OCT), image.

Numerical simulation of VAWT on the effects of rotation cylinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Shuda; Cao, Yang; Ren, Fuji

2017-06-01

Based on Finite Element Analysis Method, studying on Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) which is added rotating cylinder in front of its air foils, especially focusing on the analysis of NACA6 series air foils about variation of lift to drag ratio. Choosing the most suitable blades with rotary cylinder added on leading edge. Analysis indicates that the front rotating cylinders on the VAWT is benefit to lift rise and drag fall. The most suitable air foil whose design lift coefficient is 0.8, the blades relative thickness is 20%, and the optimistic tip speed ratio is about 7.

Experimental Observations of a Stitched Composite with a Notch Subjected to Combined Bending and Tension Loading

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmer, Susan O.; Nettles, Alan T.; Poe, C. C.

1998-01-01

A series of tests was conducted to support development of an analytical model for predicting the failure strains of stitched warp-knit carbon/epoxy composite materials with through-thicknesss damage in the form of a crack-like notch. Measurements of strain near notch tips, crack opening displacement (COD), and applied load were monitored in all tests. The out-of-plane displacement at the center of the notch was also measured when the specimen was subjected to bending. Three types of loading were applied: pure bending, pure tension, and combined bending and tension.

Preparation and Observation of Thick Biological Samples by Scanning Transmission Electron Tomography.

PubMed

Trépout, Sylvain; Bastin, Philippe; Marco, Sergio

2017-03-12

This report describes a protocol for preparing thick biological specimens for further observation using a scanning transmission electron microscope. It also describes an imaging method for studying the 3D structure of thick biological specimens by scanning transmission electron tomography. The sample preparation protocol is based on conventional methods in which the sample is fixed using chemical agents, treated with a heavy atom salt contrasting agent, dehydrated in a series of ethanol baths, and embedded in resin. The specific imaging conditions for observing thick samples by scanning transmission electron microscopy are then described. Sections of the sample are observed using a through-focus method involving the collection of several images at various focal planes. This enables the recovery of in-focus information at various heights throughout the sample. This particular collection pattern is performed at each tilt angle during tomography data collection. A single image is then generated, merging the in-focus information from all the different focal planes. A classic tilt-series dataset is then generated. The advantage of the method is that the tilt-series alignment and reconstruction can be performed using standard tools. The collection of through-focal images allows the reconstruction of a 3D volume that contains all of the structural details of the sample in focus.

Intensive outpatient comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics: A case series

PubMed Central

Blount, Tabatha H; Lockhart, Ann-Louise T; Garcia, Rocio V; Raj, Jeslina J; Peterson, Alan L

2014-01-01

Recent randomized clinical trials have established the efficacy of Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) in treating children and adults with Tourette syndrome and persistent tic disorders. However, the standard CBIT protocol uses a weekly outpatient treatment format (i.e., 8 sessions over 10 wk), which may be inconvenient or impractical for some patients, particularly patients, who are required to travel long distances in order to receive care. In contrast, an intensive outpatient program may increase accessibility to evidence-based behavioral treatments for Tourette syndrome and other persistent tic disorders by eliminating the necessity of repeated travel. This case series evaluated the use of an intensive outpatient program CBIT (IOP CBIT) for the treatment of 2 preadolescent males (ages 10 and 14 years) with Tourette syndrome. The IOP CBIT treatment protocol included several hours of daily treatment over a 4-d period. Both children evidenced notable reductions in their tics and maintained treatment gains at follow-up. Moreover, both patients and their parents expressed treatment satisfaction with the IOP CBIT format. This case series addresses an important research gap in the behavioral treatment of tic disorders literature. The patients’ treatment outcomes indicate that IOP CBIT is a promising treatment that warrants more systematic investigation. PMID:25325069

Characterization of closely related delta-TIP genes encoding aquaporins which are differentially expressed in sunflower roots upon water deprivation through exposure to air.

PubMed

Sarda, X; Tousch, D; Ferrare, K; Cellier, F; Alcon, C; Dupuis, J M; Casse, F; Lamaze, T

1999-05-01

We isolated five sunflower (Helianthus annuus) cDNAs belonging to the TIP (tonoplast intrinsic protein) family. SunRb7 and Sun gammaTIP (partial sequence) are homologous to tobacco TobRb7 and Arabidopsis gamma-TIP, respectively. SunTIP7, 18 and 20 (SunTIPs) are closely related and homologous to Arabidopsis delta-TIP (SunTIP7 and 20 have already been presented in Sarda et al., Plant J. 12 (1997) 1103-1111). As was previously shown for SunTIP7 and 20, expression of SunTIP18 and SunRb7 in Xenopus oocytes caused an increase in osmotic water permeability demonstrating that they are aquaporins. In roots, in situ hybridization revealed that SunTIP7 and 18 mRNAs accumulate in phloem tissues. The expression of TIP-like genes was studied in roots during 24 h water deprivation through exposure to air. During the course of the treatment, each SunTIP gene displayed an individual response: SunTIP7 transcript abundance increased, SunTIP18 decreased whereas that of SunTIP20 was transitorily enhanced. By contrast, SunRb7 and Sun gammaTIP mRNA levels did not fluctuate. Due to the changes in their transcript levels, it is proposed that SUNTIP aquaporins encoded by delta-TIP-like genes play a role in the sunflower response to drought.

Plasma skin regeneration technology.

PubMed

Bogle, M A

2006-09-01

Plasma skin regeneration (PSR) technology uses energy delivered from plasma rather than light or radiofrequency. Plasma is the fourth state of matter in which electrons are stripped from atoms to form an ionized gas. The plasma is emitted in a millisecond pulse to deliver energy to target tissue upon contact without reliance on skin chromophores. The technology can be used at varying energies for different depths of effect, from superficial epidermal sloughing to deeper dermal heating. With the Portrait PSR device (Rhytec, Inc.) there are three treatment guidelines termed PSR1, PSR2, and PSR3. The PSR1 protocol uses a series of low-energy treatments (1.0,1.2 Joules) spaced 3 weeks apart. The PSR2 protocol uses one high-energy pass (3.0, 4.0 Joules) performed in a single treatment, and the PSR3 protocol uses two high-energy passes (3.0 4.0 Joules) performed in a single treatment. All protocols improve fine lines, textural irregularities, and dyspigmentation; however, skin tightening is probably more pronounced with the high-energy treatments.

Ethical dilemmas in genetic testing: examples from the Cuban program for predictive diagnosis of hereditary ataxias.

PubMed

Mariño, Tania Cruz; Armiñán, Rubén Reynaldo; Cedeño, Humberto Jorge; Mesa, José Miguel Laffita; Zaldivar, Yanetza González; Rodríguez, Raúl Aguilera; Santos, Miguel Velázquez; Mederos, Luis Enrique Almaguer; Herrera, Milena Paneque; Pérez, Luis Velázquez

2011-06-01

Predictive testing protocols are intended to help patients affected with hereditary conditions understand their condition and make informed reproductive choices. However, predictive protocols may expose clinicians and patients to ethical dilemmas that interfere with genetic counseling and the decision making process. This paper describes ethical dilemmas in a series of five cases involving predictive testing for hereditary ataxias in Cuba. The examples herein present evidence of the deeply controversial situations faced by both individuals at risk and professionals in charge of these predictive studies, suggesting a need for expanded guidelines to address such complexities.

The long pollen tube journey and in vitro pollen germination of Phalaenopsis orchids.

PubMed

Chen, Jhun-Chen; Fang, Su-Chiung

2016-06-01

Pollen biology in P. aphrodite. Orchids have a distinct reproductive program. Pollination triggers ovule development and differentiation within flowers, and fertilization occurs days to months after pollination. It is unclear how pollen tubes travel through the developing ovaries during ovule development and when pollen tubes arrive at the mature embryo sac to achieve fertilization. Here, we report a robust staining protocol to image and record the timing of pollen germination, progressive growth of pollen tubes in ovaries, and arrival of pollen tubes at embryo sacs in Phalaenopsis aphrodite. The pollen germinated and pollen tubes entered the ovary 3 days after pollination. Pollen tubes continued to grow and filled the entire cavity of the ovary as the ovary elongated and ovules developed. Pollen tubes were found to enter the matured embryo sacs at approximately 60-65 days after pollination in an acropetal manner. Moreover, these temporal changes in developmental events such as growth of pollen tubes and fertilization were associated with expression of molecular markers. In addition, we developed an in vitro pollen germination protocol, which is valuable to enable studies on pollen tube guidance and tip growth regulation in Phalaenopsis orchids and possibly in other orchid species.

Evaluating the Feasibility of RESCUE: An Adjunctive HAI-Based Intervention for Veterans with PTSD

DTIC Science & Technology

This report documents accomplishment of the following tasks: a) Completed case series, conducted qualitative interviews, and refined the protocol...Continued active recruitment of participants; currently on track with our projected recruitment targets. As of April 2018, 76 participants have been

Development of Guidelines for Identification of SCC Sites and Estimation of Re-Inspection Intervals for SCC Direct Assessment

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-05-31

This report describes the development of a series of guidelines for the identification of SCC sites and the estimation of re-inspection intervals. These SCC Guidelines are designed to complement and supplement existing SCC Direct Assessment protocols...

75 FR 10818 - Proposed Modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-09

... international Harmonized System nomenclature. The Recommendation--the fourth in a series--is part of the WCO's... amendments to the international Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (Harmonized System), and the Protocol thereto, are recommended by [[Page 10819

A simplified protocol for molecular identification of Eimeria species in field samples.

PubMed

Haug, Anita; Thebo, Per; Mattsson, Jens G

2007-05-15

This study aimed to find a fast, sensitive and efficient protocol for molecular identification of chicken Eimeria spp. in field samples. Various methods for each of the three steps of the protocol were evaluated: oocyst wall rupturing methods, DNA extraction methods, and identification of species-specific DNA sequences by PCR. We then compared and evaluated five complete protocols. Three series of oocyst suspensions of known number of oocysts from Eimeria mitis, Eimeria praecox, Eimeria maxima and Eimeria tenella were prepared and ground using glass beads or mini-pestle. DNA was extracted from ruptured oocysts using commercial systems (GeneReleaser, Qiagen Stoolkit and Prepman) or phenol-chloroform DNA extraction, followed by identification of species-specific ITS-1 sequences by optimised single species PCR assays. The Stoolkit and Prepman protocols showed insufficient repeatability, and the former was also expensive and relatively time-consuming. In contrast, both the GeneReleaser protocol and phenol-chloroform protocols were robust and sensitive, detecting less than 0.4 oocysts of each species per PCR. Finally, we evaluated our new protocol on 68 coccidia positive field samples. Our data suggests that rupturing the oocysts by mini-pestle grinding, preparing the DNA with GeneReleaser, followed by optimised single species PCR assays, makes a robust and sensitive procedure for identifying chicken Eimeria species in field samples. Importantly, it also provides minimal hands-on-time in the pre-PCR process, lower contamination risk and no handling of toxic chemicals.

Failure to Confirm the Macrophage Electrophoretic Mobility Test in Cancer

PubMed Central

Forrester, J. A.; Dando, P. M.; Smith, W. J.; Turberville, C.

1977-01-01

A series of patients with a variety of histopathologically confirmed cancers have been examined using the MOD-MEM test as described by Pritchard et al. (1973). Despite the closest possible adherence to the experimental protocols recommended by these authors, no positive reactions to the test were observed in this series: neither were we able to demonstrate the release of a “macrophage-slowing factor” by a panel of normal donors when challenged with tubercle PPD. We conclude that the test has no present application to the diagnosis of cancer.

Use of the Apollo detachable-tip microcatheter for endovascular embolization of arteriovenous malformations and arteriovenous fistulas.

PubMed

Flores, Bruno C; See, Alfred P; Weiner, Gregory M; Jankowitz, Brian T; Ducruet, Andrew F; Albuquerque, Felipe C

2018-03-23

OBJECTIVE Liquid embolic agents have revolutionized endovascular management of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs). Nonetheless, since 2005, the US FDA has received more than 100 reports of microcatheter breakage or entrapment related to Onyx embolization, including 9 deaths. In 2014, the Apollo detachable-tip microcatheter became the first of its kind available in the US. Since then, few reports on its safety have been published. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective review of endovascular cases by searching the patient databases at 2 tertiary cerebrovascular centers (Barrow Neurological Institute and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center). Patients who underwent endovascular embolization of an AVM or AVF using the Apollo microcatheter were identified. Patient demographics and lesion characteristics were collected. The authors analyzed Apollo-specific endovascular variables, such as number of microcatheterizations, sessions, and pedicles embolized; microcatheter tip detachment status; obliteration rate; and endovascular- and microcatheter-related morbidity and mortality. RESULTS From July 2014 to October 2016, a total of 177 embolizations using the Apollo microcatheter were performed in 61 patients (mean age 40.3 years). The most frequent presentation was hemorrhage (22/61, 36.1%). Most lesions were AVMs (51/61, 83.6%; mean diameter 30.6 mm). The mean Spetzler-Martin grade was 2.4. Thirty-nine (76.5%) of 51 patients with AVMs underwent resection. Microcatheterization was successful in 172 pedicles. Most patients (50/61, 82%) underwent a single embolization session. The mean number of pedicles per session was 2.5 (range 1-7). Onyx-18 was used in 103 (59.9%), N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) in 44 (25.6%), and Onyx-34 in 25 (14.5%) of the 172 embolizations. In 45.9% (28/61) of the patients, lesion obliteration of 75% or greater was achieved. Tip detachment occurred in 19.2% (33/172) of microcatheters. Fifty-three (86.9%) of the 61 patients who underwent embolization with the Apollo microcatheter had good functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2). No unintended microcatheter fractures or related morbidity was observed. One patient died of intraprocedural complications unrelated to microcatheter selection. In the univariate analysis, microcatheter tip detachment (p = 0.12), single embolized pedicles (p = 0.12), and smaller AVM nidus diameter (p = 0.17) correlated positively with high obliteration rates (> 90%). In the multivariate analysis, microcatheter tip detachment was the only independent variable associated with high obliteration rates (OR 9.5; p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS The use of the Apollo detachable-tip microcatheter for embolization of AVMs and AVFs is associated with high rates of successful catheterization and obliteration and low rates of morbidity and mortality. The microcatheter was retrieved in all cases, even after prolonged injections in distal branch pedicles, often with significant reflux. This study represents the largest case series on the application of the Apollo microcatheter for neurointerventional procedures.

Lateral Tip Control Effects in CD-AFM Metrology: The Large Tip Limit.

PubMed

Dixson, Ronald G; Orji, Ndubuisi G; Goldband, Ryan S

2016-01-25

Sidewall sensing in critical dimension atomic force microscopes (CD-AFMs) usually involves continuous lateral dithering of the tip or the use of a control algorithm and fast response piezo actuator to position the tip in a manner that resembles touch-triggering of coordinate measuring machine (CMM) probes. All methods of tip position control, however, induce an effective tip width that may deviate from the actual geometrical tip width. Understanding the influence and dependence of the effective tip width on the dither settings and lateral stiffness of the tip can improve the measurement accuracy and uncertainty estimation for CD-AFM measurements. Since CD-AFM typically uses tips that range from 15 nm to 850 nm in geometrical width, the behavior of effective tip width throughout this range should be understood. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been investigating the dependence of effective tip width on the dither settings and lateral stiffness of the tip, as well as the possibility of material effects due to sample composition. For tip widths of 130 nm and lower, which also have lower lateral stiffness, the response of the effective tip width to lateral dither is greater than for larger tips. However, we have concluded that these effects will not generally result in a residual bias, provided that the tip calibration and sample measurement are performed under the same conditions. To validate that our prior conclusions about the dependence of effective tip width on lateral stiffness are valid for large CD-tips, we recently performed experiments using a very large non-CD tip with an etched plateau of approximately 2 μm width. The effective lateral stiffness of these tips is at least 20 times greater than typical CD-AFM tips, and these results supported our prior conclusions about the expected behavior for larger tips. The bottom-line importance of these latest observations is that we can now reasonably conclude that a dither slope of 3 nm/V is the baseline response due to the induced motion of the cantilever base.

Lateral Tip Control Effects in CD-AFM Metrology: The Large Tip Limit

PubMed Central

Dixson, Ronald G.; Orji, Ndubuisi G.; Goldband, Ryan S.

2016-01-01

Sidewall sensing in critical dimension atomic force microscopes (CD-AFMs) usually involves continuous lateral dithering of the tip or the use of a control algorithm and fast response piezo actuator to position the tip in a manner that resembles touch-triggering of coordinate measuring machine (CMM) probes. All methods of tip position control, however, induce an effective tip width that may deviate from the actual geometrical tip width. Understanding the influence and dependence of the effective tip width on the dither settings and lateral stiffness of the tip can improve the measurement accuracy and uncertainty estimation for CD-AFM measurements. Since CD-AFM typically uses tips that range from 15 nm to 850 nm in geometrical width, the behavior of effective tip width throughout this range should be understood. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been investigating the dependence of effective tip width on the dither settings and lateral stiffness of the tip, as well as the possibility of material effects due to sample composition. For tip widths of 130 nm and lower, which also have lower lateral stiffness, the response of the effective tip width to lateral dither is greater than for larger tips. However, we have concluded that these effects will not generally result in a residual bias, provided that the tip calibration and sample measurement are performed under the same conditions. To validate that our prior conclusions about the dependence of effective tip width on lateral stiffness are valid for large CD-tips, we recently performed experiments using a very large non-CD tip with an etched plateau of approximately 2 μm width. The effective lateral stiffness of these tips is at least 20 times greater than typical CD-AFM tips, and these results supported our prior conclusions about the expected behavior for larger tips. The bottom-line importance of these latest observations is that we can now reasonably conclude that a dither slope of 3 nm/V is the baseline response due to the induced motion of the cantilever base. PMID:27087883

Effects of a hinged expansion screw for median mandibular distraction treatment on the lower first molars regarding tooth inclination and intermolar transverse distance.

PubMed

Muchitsch, Alfred Peter; Winsauer, Heinz; Wendl, Brigitte; Pichelmayer, Margit; Kuljuh, Elma; Navysany, Marie Therese; Muchitsch, Markus

2014-01-01

The goal of this study was to assess the extent to which median mandibular distraction via a cemented and screw-retained full-coverage splint appliance employing a hinged expansion screw causes inclination changes in the lower first molars and widens the dental arch. Our study included 17 patients (12 females and 5 males; average age 16 years and 3 months) who presented with transverse space deficits and pronounced dental crowding. Baseline and final mandibular casts reflecting the situations before and after 6 weeks of median distraction therapy were created, scanned, and matched via their coordinate systems. Perpendiculars were drawn at the geometric centers between the cusp tips of teeth 36 and 46 and projected against the frontal plane. The intersection angles yielded single-tooth and total inclination values for both molars, and the difference between the intermolar distances measured at the geometric centers of both teeth provided the amount of transverse expansion. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of >0.99 was obtained in a series of three measurements. After distraction treatment, the total inclination values between teeth 36 and 46 changed by +2.93 ± 9.14°. The corresponding single-tooth inclinations changed by +0.68 ± 6.32° and -2.25 ± 4.33°, respectively. Both molars underwent similar degrees of buccal or lingual tipping. Compared to a mean expansion of +6.9 ± 1.83 mm at the distraction screw, a distance increase of only +3.77 ± 1.27 mm along the transversal connecting teeth 36 and 46 was recorded. Pearson's correlation coefficient was 0.336 between total tipping and intermolar expansion (p=0.187) and -0.426 between total tipping and patient age (p=0.088). Expansion amounts were approximately twice as long at the expansion screw as between the first molars. This V-shaped expansion pattern was due to the hinged connections between each expansion screw and the full-coverage splints. The buccal and lingual tipping of molars measured may be due to varying heights of the posterior alveolar ridge during mixed dentition or to anatomy-related differences in the expansion-screw position. In all cases we observed a mainly parallel opening of the distraction gap on the vertical plane.

SeaWiFS technical report series. Volume 25: Ocean optics protocols for SeaWiFS validation, revision 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hooker, Stanford B. (Editor); Firestone, Elaine R. (Editor); Acker, James G. (Editor); Mueller, James L.; Austin, Roswell W.

1995-01-01

This report presents protocols for measuring optical properties, and other environmental variables, to validate the radiometric performance of the Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS), and to develop and validate bio-optical algorithms for use with SeaWiFS data. The protocols are intended to establish foundations for a measurement strategy to verify the challenging SeaWiFS uncertainty goals of 5 percent in water-leaving radiances and 35 percent in chlorophyll alpha concentration. The protocols first specify the variables which must be measured, and briefly review the rationale for measuring each variable. Subsequent chapters cover detailed protocols for instrument performance specifications, characterizing and calibrating instruments, methods of making measurements in the field, and methods of data analysis. These protocols were developed at a workshop sponsored by the SeaWiFS Project Office (SPO) and held at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California (9-12 April 1991). This report began as the proceedings of the workshop, as interpreted and expanded by the authors and reviewed by workshop participants and other members of the bio-optical research community. The protocols are an evolving prescription to allow the research community to approach the unprecedented measurement uncertainties implied by the SeaWiFS goals; research and development are needed to improve the state-of-the-art in specific areas. These protocols should be periodically revised to reflect technical advances during the SeaWiFS Project cycle. The present edition (Revision 1) incorporates new protocols in several areas, including expanded protocol descriptions for Case-2 waters and other improvements, as contributed by several members of the SeaWiFS Science Team.

The Effect of Coded Healing Abutments on Treatment Duration and Clinical Outcome: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Comparing Encode and Conventional Impression Protocols.

PubMed

Abduo, Jaafar; Chen, Chen; Le Breton, Eugene; Radu, Alexandra; Szeto, Josephine; Judge, Roy; Darby, Ivan

To compare the Encode impression protocol (Biomet 3i) with the conventional impression protocol in terms of treatment duration, clinical accuracy, and outcome up to the first postplacement review of single-implant crowns. A total of 45 implants were included in this study. The implants were randomly allocated to the Encode group (23 implants) or the conventional group (22 implants). At the time of surgery, all implants received two-piece Encode healing abutments. The implants were restored 3 months after insertion. In the conventional protocol, open-tray implant-level impressions were taken and the implants were restored with prefabricated abutments and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns. For the implants in the Encode group, closed-tray impressions of the healing abutments were taken. The generated casts were sent to the Biomet 3i scanning/milling center for custom abutment manufacturing on which PFM crowns were fabricated. Treatment duration (laboratory and clinical), clinical accuracy of occlusal and proximal contacts, and outcome (esthetics, patient satisfaction, and crown contour) were evaluated with the aid of a series of questionnaires. The Encode protocol required significantly less laboratory time (18 minutes) than the conventional protocol for adjustment of the abutments. The impression pour time, time for the laboratory to return the crown, time for crown insertion at the final appointment, and total clinical time for crown insertion did not differ significantly between the two protocols. Likewise, clinical accuracy, esthetics, and patient satisfaction were similar for the two protocols. The two protocols were clinically comparable. The Encode protocol is advantageous in reducing the laboratory time before crown fabrication.

Note: Microelectrode-shielding tip for scanning probe electron energy spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei; Li, Zhean; Xu, Chunkai; Liu, Jian; Xu, Chunye; Chen, Xiangjun

2018-04-01

We report a novel microelectrode-shielding tip (ME tip) for scanning probe electron energy spectroscopy (SPEES). The shielding effect of this tip is studied through comparing the detection efficiency with the normal tip by both experiment and simulation. The results show that the backscattering count rate detected by the SPEES instrument using the normal tip begins to decrease as the tip approaches to the sample surface within 21 μm, while that using the ME tip only starts to drop off within 1 μm. This indicates that the electron energy spectra can be measured with the ME tip at a much closer tip-sample distance. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that the ME tip can be used to obtain topography of the sample surface in situ simultaneously.