Sample records for quadruple test including

  1. Prospective study of the feasibility and effectiveness of a second-trimester quadruple test for Down syndrome in Thailand.

    PubMed

    Kaewsuksai, Peeranan; Jitsurong, Siroj

    2017-11-01

    To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a quadruple test for Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy in clinical settings in Thailand. From October 2015 to September 2016, a prospective study was undertaken in 19 hospitals in Songkhla province, Thailand. Women with a singleton pregnancy of 14-18 weeks were enrolled and underwent the quadruple test. The risk cutoff value was set at 1:250. All women with a positive test (risk ≥1:250) were offered amniocentesis. Women were followed up until delivery. Among 2375 women, 206 (8.7%) had a positive quadruple test; 98 (47.6%) of these women voluntarily underwent amniocentesis. Overall, seven pregnancies were complicated with chromosomal abnormalities (2.9 cases in 1000), including four cases of Down syndrome (1.7 in 1000) and three of other abnormalities. The detection, false-positive, and accuracy rates of the quadruple test for Down syndrome were 75.0%, 8.6%, and 91.4%, respectively. The quadruple test was found to be a feasible and efficient method for screening for Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy in a Thai clinical setting. The test should be performed for pregnant women before an invasive test for Down syndrome. © 2017 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.

  2. Quadrupling Inhaled Glucocorticoid Dose to Abort Asthma Exacerbations.

    PubMed

    McKeever, Tricia; Mortimer, Kevin; Wilson, Andrew; Walker, Samantha; Brightling, Christopher; Skeggs, Andrew; Pavord, Ian; Price, David; Duley, Lelia; Thomas, Mike; Bradshaw, Lucy; Higgins, Bernard; Haydock, Rebecca; Mitchell, Eleanor; Devereux, Graham; Harrison, Timothy

    2018-03-08

    Asthma exacerbations are frightening for patients and are occasionally fatal. We tested the concept that a plan for patients to manage their asthma (self-management plan), which included a temporary quadrupling of the dose of inhaled glucocorticoids when asthma control started to deteriorate, would reduce the incidence of severe asthma exacerbations among adults and adolescents with asthma. We conducted a pragmatic, unblinded, randomized trial involving adults and adolescents with asthma who were receiving inhaled glucocorticoids, with or without add-on therapy, and who had had at least one exacerbation in the previous 12 months. We compared a self-management plan that included an increase in the dose of inhaled glucocorticoids by a factor of 4 (quadrupling group) with the same plan without such an increase (non-quadrupling group), over a period of 12 months. The primary outcome was the time to a first severe asthma exacerbation, defined as treatment with systemic glucocorticoids or an unscheduled health care consultation for asthma. A total of 1922 participants underwent randomization, of whom 1871 were included in the primary analysis. The number of participants who had a severe asthma exacerbation in the year after randomization was 420 (45%) in the quadrupling group as compared with 484 (52%) in the non-quadrupling group, with an adjusted hazard ratio for the time to a first severe exacerbation of 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.71 to 0.92; P=0.002). The rate of adverse effects, which were related primarily to local effects of inhaled glucocorticoids, was higher in the quadrupling group than in the non-quadrupling group. In this trial involving adults and adolescents with asthma, a personalized self-management plan that included a temporary quadrupling of the dose of inhaled glucocorticoids when asthma control started to deteriorate resulted in fewer severe asthma exacerbations than a plan in which the dose was not increased. (Funded by the Health Technology

  3. Helicobacter pylori second-line rescue therapy with levofloxacin- and bismuth-containing quadruple therapy, after failure of standard triple or non-bismuth quadruple treatments.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, J P; Romano, M; Gravina, A G; Solís-Muñoz, P; Bermejo, F; Molina-Infante, J; Castro-Fernández, M; Ortuño, J; Lucendo, A J; Herranz, M; Modolell, I; Del Castillo, F; Gómez, J; Barrio, J; Velayos, B; Gómez, B; Domínguez, J L; Miranda, A; Martorano, M; Algaba, A; Pabón, M; Angueira, T; Fernández-Salazar, L; Federico, A; Marín, A C; McNicholl, A G

    2015-04-01

    The most commonly used second-line Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens are bismuth-containing quadruple therapy and levofloxacin-containing triple therapy, both offering suboptimal results. Combining bismuth and levofloxacin may enhance the efficacy of rescue eradication regimens. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a second-line quadruple regimen containing levofloxacin and bismuth in patients whose previous H. pylori eradication treatment failed. This was a prospective multicenter study including patients in whom a standard triple therapy (PPI-clarithromycin-amoxicillin) or a non-bismuth quadruple therapy (PPI-clarithromycin-amoxicillin-metronidazole, either sequential or concomitant) had failed. Esomeprazole (40 mg b.d.), amoxicillin (1 g b.d.), levofloxacin (500 mg o.d.) and bismuth (240 mg b.d.) was prescribed for 14 days. Eradication was confirmed by (13) C-urea breath test. Compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. Incidence of adverse effects was evaluated by questionnaires. 200 patients were included consecutively (mean age 47 years, 67% women, 13% ulcer). Previous failed therapy included: standard clarithromycin triple therapy (131 patients), sequential (32) and concomitant (37). A total of 96% took all medications correctly. Per-protocol and intention-to-treat eradication rates were 91.1% (95%CI = 87-95%) and 90% (95%CI = 86-94%). Cure rates were similar regardless of previous (failed) treatment or country of origin. Adverse effects were reported in 46% of patients, most commonly nausea (17%) and diarrhoea (16%); 3% were intense but none was serious. Fourteen-day bismuth- and levofloxacin-containing quadruple therapy is an effective (≥90% cure rate), simple and safe second-line strategy in patients whose previous standard triple or non-bismuth quadruple (sequential or concomitant) therapies have failed. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. Rapid resolution of toxoplasma chorioretinitis treatment using quadruple therapy

    PubMed Central

    Kartasasmita, Arief; Muntur, Wendy P; Enus, Sutarya; Iskandar, Erwin

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To compare the effectiveness of quadruple-drug therapy consisting of cotrimoxazole (trimethopin and sulfamethoxazole), clindamycin antibiotics, and oral corticosteroid versus triple therapy consisting of pyrimetamine, sulphadiazine, and oral corticosteroid in the resolution of toxoplasmic chorioretinitis. Methods This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial with repeated measures using parallel design to compare the effectiveness of quadruple-drug therapy and triple-drug therapy in patients with toxoplasmic chorioretinitis. The measurement of lesion was done using automated computer software, calculating the average of lesion size from three fundus photographs taken from the baseline and at each follow-up visit. The analytical statistics were obtained using Mann–Whitney test, comparing percentage of lesion remission test in each examination. Results The percentage of lesion remission in quadruple-drug therapy was higher than in triple-drug therapy from the first visit until the first follow-up visit, with a p-value of 0.001. In addition, the mean percentage of lesion remission from first visit to last visit was 57.5% and the median was 70.9% in the quadruple therapy group, while in the triple-drug therapy group the mean was 52.5% and the median was 54.0% (p=0.720). Conclusion We conclude that the quadruple-drug therapy has a more rapid resolution effect on chorioretinitis lesion compared to triple therapy. PMID:29238162

  5. Rapid resolution of toxoplasma chorioretinitis treatment using quadruple therapy.

    PubMed

    Kartasasmita, Arief; Muntur, Wendy P; Enus, Sutarya; Iskandar, Erwin

    2017-01-01

    To compare the effectiveness of quadruple-drug therapy consisting of cotrimoxazole (trimethopin and sulfamethoxazole), clindamycin antibiotics, and oral corticosteroid versus triple therapy consisting of pyrimetamine, sulphadiazine, and oral corticosteroid in the resolution of toxoplasmic chorioretinitis. This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial with repeated measures using parallel design to compare the effectiveness of quadruple-drug therapy and triple-drug therapy in patients with toxoplasmic chorioretinitis. The measurement of lesion was done using automated computer software, calculating the average of lesion size from three fundus photographs taken from the baseline and at each follow-up visit. The analytical statistics were obtained using Mann-Whitney test, comparing percentage of lesion remission test in each examination. The percentage of lesion remission in quadruple-drug therapy was higher than in triple-drug therapy from the first visit until the first follow-up visit, with a p -value of 0.001. In addition, the mean percentage of lesion remission from first visit to last visit was 57.5% and the median was 70.9% in the quadruple therapy group, while in the triple-drug therapy group the mean was 52.5% and the median was 54.0% ( p =0.720). We conclude that the quadruple-drug therapy has a more rapid resolution effect on chorioretinitis lesion compared to triple therapy.

  6. Quadruple cancer including Bowen's disease after arsenic injections 40 years earlier: report of a case.

    PubMed

    Murata, K; Iwazawa, T; Takayama, T; Yamashita, K; Okagawa, K

    1994-01-01

    This report describes the successful treatment of quadruple cancer including Bowen's disease in a 71-year-old man who had been given injections of salvarsan, an arsenic compound, for syphilis more than 40 years earlier. Resection of a skin lesion on his chest subsequently confirmed a diagnosis of Bowen's disease, 3 years after which he was operated on for concurrent gastric cancer and sigmoid colon cancer. A fourth cancer was discovered on his left vocal cord 2 weeks after this operation; it was resected 2 years later. A discussion of multiple malignant neoplasms and the possible relationship between arsenic and cancer is presented following this case report.

  7. Quadruple therapy for eradication of Helicobacter pylori

    PubMed Central

    Ma, Hai-Jun; Wang, Jin-Liang

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To investigate quadruple therapy with rabeprazole, amoxicillin, levofloxacin and furazolidone for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. METHODS: A total of 147 patients were divided into the experimental treatment group (n = 78) and the standard triple treatment group (n = 69). The experimental treatment group received rabeprazole 20 mg, amoxicillin 1.0 g, levofloxacin 0.2 g and furazolidone 0.1 g, twice daily. The standard triple treatment group received omeprazole 20 mg, amoxicillin 1.0 g and clarithromycin 0.5 g, twice daily. RESULTS: One month after treatment, the 13C urea breath test was carried out to detect H. pylori. The eradication rate using per-protocol analysis was 94.3% in the experimental treatment group and 73% in the standard triple treatment group (P < 0.05), and using intention to test analysis, these figures were 86% and 67% in the two groups, respectively. Side effects were observed in 34 patients, and included mild dizziness, nausea, diarrhea and increased bowel movement. Eleven of the 34 patients needed no treatment for their side effects. CONCLUSION: Rabeprazole, amoxicillin, levofloxacin and furazolidone quadruple therapy is a safe method for the eradication of H. pylori with high efficacy and good tolerability. PMID:23429422

  8. Second-line bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication and impact of diabetes

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Sung Eun; Park, Moo In; Park, Seun Ja; Moon, Won; Kim, Jae Hyun; Jung, Kyoungwon; Kim, Hae Koo; Lee, Young Dal

    2017-01-01

    AIM To investigate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication rates using second-line bismuth-containing quadruple therapy and to identify predictors of eradication failure. METHODS This study included 636 patients who failed first-line triple therapy and received 7 d of bismuth-containing quadruple therapy between January 2005 and December 2015. We retrospectively demonstrated H. pylori eradication rates with respect to the year of therapy as well as demographic and clinical factors. H. pylori eradication was confirmed by a 13C-urea breath test or a rapid urease test at least 4 wk after the completion of bismuth-based quadruple therapy: proton pump inhibitor, metronidazole, bismuth, and tetracycline. RESULTS The overall eradication rates by intention-to-treat analysis and per-protocol analysis were 73.9% (95%CI: 70.1%-77.4%) and 94.5% (95%CI: 92.4%-96.5%), respectively. Annual eradication rates from 2005 to 2015 were 100.0%, 92.9%, 100.0%, 100.0%, 100.0%, 97.4%, 100.0%, 93.8%, 84.4%, 98.9%, and 92.5%, respectively, by per-protocol analysis. A multivariate analysis showed that diabetes mellitus (OR = 3.99, 95%CI: 1.56-10.20, P = 0.004) was associated with H. pylori eradication therapy failure. CONCLUSION The second-line bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for H. pylori infection is still effective in Korea, and diabetes mellitus is suggested to be a risk factor for eradication failure. PMID:28246480

  9. [Effect of furazolidone quadruple regimen plus dental plaque removal procedures as rescue treatment of refractory Helicobacter pylori infection].

    PubMed

    Gao, Wen; Hu, Fu-lian; Wang, Xiao-min

    2011-03-29

    To observe the effect of furazolidone quadruple regimen plus dental plaque removal procedures as rescue treatment of refractory H. pylori infection. A total of 104 patients with H. pylori positive [(13)C-urea breath test (UBT) or rapid urease test positive] failing in previous treatment two or more were enrolled and divided into 2 groups. One group (n = 64) were given quadruple regimen [proton pump inhibitor (PPI) + bismuth + amoxicillin + furazolidone, 10 days] treatment and dental plaque removal treatment. And the others (n = 40) received only quadruple regimen treatment. The status of H. pylori was detected by (13)C-UBT at 4 weeks post-therapy and the eradication rates of two groups were compared. The eradication rate of quadruple regimen + dental treatment group was 85.9% (55/64) while that of the other group 72.5% (29/40) (P = 0.091). The PPI + bismuth quadruple regimen plus dental plaque removal procedures as rescue treatment may boost the eradication rate of refractory H. pylori infection patients. And the furazolidone quadruple therapy can be chosen for the treatment of refractory H. pylori infection. Oral H. pylori infection may play a role in the failure of H. pylori infection treatment.

  10. Berberine containing quadruple therapy for initial Helicobacter pylori eradication: An open-label randomized phase IV trial.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Di; Ke, Li; Ni, Zhen; Chen, Yu; Zhang, Lin-Hui; Zhu, Shao-Hua; Li, Chan-Juan; Shang, Lei; Liang, Jie; Shi, Yong-Quan

    2017-08-01

    Due to increasing antimicrobial resistance, a bismuth-based quadruple regimen has been recommended as an alternative first-line therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) eradication. However, different results are varied greatly and the availability of bismuth was limited in some countries. We assessed the efficacy and safety of 14-day berberine-containing quadruple therapy as an alternative regimen for H pylori eradication. In a randomized, open-label, non-inferiority, phase IV trial between November 25, 2014, and October 15, 2015, 612 treatment-naive patients were randomly assigned to 14-day berberine-containing (n = 308) or 14-day bismuth-containing (n = 304) quadruple therapy. The primary outcomes were eradication rates determined by the C urea breath test (C-UBT) 28 days after the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes were adverse events and compliance. The baseline demographic data including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), general condition and severity score were not statistically different in both groups. The eradication rates in bismuth and berberine groups were 86.4% (266/308) and 90.1% (274/304) in intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (P = .149), and 89.6% (266/297) and 91.3% (273/299) in per-protocol (PP) analysis (P = .470), respectively. No statistically significant difference was found in the overall incidence of adverse events between both groups (35.7% vs 28.6%, P = .060). Both regimens achieved the recommended efficacy for H pylori eradication. The berberine-containing quadruple regimen was not inferior to bismuth-containing quadruple regimen and can be recommended as an alternative regimen for H pylori eradication in the local region.

  11. Reconfigurable quadruple quantum dots in a silicon nanowire transistor

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

    Betz, A. C., E-mail: ab2106@cam.ac.uk; Broström, M.; Gonzalez-Zalba, M. F.

    2016-05-16

    We present a reconfigurable metal-oxide-semiconductor multi-gate transistor that can host a quadruple quantum dot in silicon. The device consists of an industrial quadruple-gate silicon nanowire field-effect transistor. Exploiting the corner effect, we study the versatility of the structure in the single quantum dot and the serial double quantum dot regimes and extract the relevant capacitance parameters. We address the fabrication variability of the quadruple-gate approach which, paired with improved silicon fabrication techniques, makes the corner state quantum dot approach a promising candidate for a scalable quantum information architecture.

  12. Novel catalytic properties of quadruple perovskites

    PubMed Central

    Yamada, Ikuya

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Quadruple perovskite oxides AA′3 B 4O12 demonstrate a rich variety of structural and electronic properties. A large number of constituent elements for A/A′/B-site cations can be introduced using the ultra-high-pressure synthesis method. Development of novel functional materials consisting of earth-abundant elements plays a crucial role in current materials science. In this paper, functional properties, especially oxygen reaction catalysis, for quadruple perovskite oxides CaCu3Fe4O12 and AMn7O12 (A = Ca, La) composed of earth-abundant elements are reviewed. PMID:28970864

  13. Antenatal screening for Down syndrome using serum placental growth factor with the combined, quadruple, serum integrated and integrated tests.

    PubMed

    Wald, Nicholas J; Bestwick, Jonathan P; George, Lynne M; Huttly, Wayne J

    2012-01-01

    To estimate the value of first or second trimester placental growth factor (PlGF) as an additional antenatal screening marker for Down syndrome. Nested case-control study. Antenatal screening service. 532 Down syndrome pregnancies and 1,155 matched unaffected pregnancies. Stored maternal serum samples (-40°C) were assayed for PlGF. Monte Carlo simulation was used to estimate the screening performance of PlGF with the Combined, Quadruple, serum Integrated and Integrated tests. Median PlGF levels in affected and unaffected pregnancies and screening performance (detection rates [DR] for specified false-positive rates [FPR] and vice versa). First trimester median PlGF was 15%, 28% and 39% lower in Down syndrome than unaffected pregnancies at 11, 12 and 13 completed weeks' gestation respectively (all p<0.001). Second trimester median PlGF was 31% lower at 14 weeks (p<0.001), and the difference decreased (6% lower at 17 weeks). At a 90% DR with first trimester markers measured at 13 weeks, adding PlGF decreased the FPR from 11.1 to 5.1% using the Combined test, 9.3% to 4.5% using the serum Integrated test, and 3.4% to 1.5% using the Integrated test (or 1.5 to 1.4% with first trimester markers measured at 11 weeks). Adding PlGF to the Quadruple test (measured at 15 weeks) decreased the FPR from 10.0% to 9.6% at a 90% DR. First trimester PlGF measurements improve the performance of antenatal screening for Down syndrome using the Combined, serum Integrated and Integrated tests. Second trimester PlGF measurements are of limited value.

  14. Quadruple-first line drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Vietnam: What can we learn from genes?

    PubMed

    Nguyen, Huy Quang; Nguyen, Nhung Viet; Contamin, Lucie; Tran, Thanh Hoa Thi; Vu, Thuong Thi; Nguyen, Hung Van; Nguyen, Ngoc Lan Thi; Nguyen, Son Thai; Dang, Anh Duc; Bañuls, Anne-Laure; Nguyen, Van Anh Thi

    2017-06-01

    In Vietnam, a country with high tuberculosis (137/100.000 population) and multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB burdens (7.8/100.000 population), little is known about the molecular signatures of drug resistance in general and more particularly of second line drug (SLD) resistance. This study is specifically focused on Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates resistant to four first-line drugs (FLDs) that make TB much more difficult to treat. The aim is to determine the proportion of SLD resistance in these quadruple drug resistant isolates and the genetic determinants linked to drug resistance to better understand the genetic processes leading to quadruple and extremely drug resistance (XDR). 91 quadruple (rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutol and streptomycin) FLD resistant and 55 susceptible isolates were included. Spoligotyping and 24-locus MIRU-VNTR techniques were performed and 9 genes and promoters linked to FLD and SLD resistance were sequenced. SLD susceptibility testing was carried out on a subsample of isolates. High proportion of quadruple-FLD resistant isolates was resistant to fluoroquinolones (27%) and second-line injectable drugs (30.2%) by drug susceptibility testing. The sequencing revealed high mutation diversity with prevailing mutations at positions katG315, inhA-15, rpoB531, embB306, rrs1401, rpsL43 and gyrA94. The sensitivity and specificity were high for most drug resistances (>86%), but the sensitivity was lower for injectable drug resistances (<69%). The mutation patterns revealed 23.1% of pre-XDR and 7.7% of XDR isolates, mostly belonging to Beijing family. The genotypic diversity and the variety of mutations reflect the existence of various evolutionary paths leading to FLD and SLD resistance. Nevertheless, particular mutation patterns linked to high-level resistance and low fitness costs seem to be favored. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication in Chinese regions: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

    PubMed Central

    Lin, Lien-Chieh; Hsu, Tzu-Herng; Huang, Kuang-Wei; Tam, Ka-Wai

    2016-01-01

    AIM: To evaluate the applicability of nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in Chinese regions. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was performed to evaluate the efficacy of nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy between sequential therapy or triple therapy for H. pylori eradication in Chinese regions. The defined Chinese regions include China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. The primary outcome was the H. pylori eradication rate; the secondary outcome was the compliance with therapy. The PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were searched for studies published in the period up to March 2016 with no language restriction. RESULTS: We reviewed six randomized controlled trials and 1616 patients. In 3 trials comparing concomitant quadruple therapy with triple therapy, the H. pylori eradication rate was significantly higher for 7-d nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy than for 7-d triple therapy (91.2% vs 77.9%, risk ratio = 1.17, 95%CI: 1.09-1.25). In 3 trials comparing quadruple therapy with sequential therapy, the eradication rate was not significant between groups (86.9% vs 86.0%). However, higher compliance was achieved with concomitant therapy than with sequential therapy. CONCLUSION: The H. pylori eradication rate was higher for nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy than for triple therapy. Moreover, higher compliance was achieved with nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy than with sequential therapy. Thus, nonbismuth concomitant quadruple therapy should be the first-line treatment in Chinese regions. PMID:27340362

  16. Sandwich-type tetrakis(phthalocyaninato) dysprosium-cadmium quadruple-decker SMM.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hailong; Qian, Kang; Wang, Kang; Bian, Yongzhong; Jiang, Jianzhuang; Gao, Song

    2011-09-14

    Homoleptic tetrakis[2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octa(butyloxy)phthalocyaninato] dysprosium-cadmium quadruple-decker complex 1 was isolated in relatively good yield of 43% from a simple one-pot reaction. This compound represents the first sandwich-type tetrakis(phthalocyaninato) rare earth-cadmium quadruple-decker SMM that has been structurally characterized. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

  17. Spatially Resolved Spectroscopy of the PMS Quadruple GG Tau: Evidence for a Substellar Companion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    White, R. J.; Ghez, A. M.; Schultz, G.; Reid, I. N.

    1998-05-01

    We present spatially resolved optical spectra from HST (FOS) and the Keck Telescope (HIRES & LRIS) of the components of the quadruple PMS system GG Tau. According to the latest PMS evolutionary models, the coldest component of this system, GG Tau/c B, appears to be substellar with a preliminary mass of only 50 M_J. This putative brown dwarf is especially intriguing as it shows clear signatures of accretion. The components of this quadruple, which span a wide range in mass, are used to test theoretical low mass PMS evolutionary models under the assumption that the components should be coeval.

  18. Standard triple, bismuth pectin quadruple and sequential therapies for Helicobacter pylori eradication

    PubMed Central

    Gao, Xiao-Zhong; Qiao, Xiu-Li; Song, Wen-Chong; Wang, Xiao-Feng; Liu, Feng

    2010-01-01

    AIM: To compare the effectiveness of standard triple, bismuth pectin quadruple and sequential therapies for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in a randomized, double-blinded, comparative clinical trial in China. METHODS: A total of 215 H. pylori-positive patients were enrolled in the study and randomly allocated into three groups: group A (n = 72) received a 10-d bismuth pectin quadruple therapy (20 mg rabeprazole bid, 1000 mg amoxicillin bid, 100 mg bismuth pectin qid, and 500 mg levofloxacin qd); group B (n = 72) received the sequential therapy (20 mg omeprazole bid, 1000 mg amoxicillin bid, in 5 d, followed by 20 mg omeprazole bid, 500 mg tinidazole bid, 500 mg clarithromycin bid, for another 5 d); group C (n = 71) received a standard 1-wk triple therapy (20 mg omeprazole bid, 1000 mg amoxicillin bid, 500 mg clarithromycin bid). After all these treatments, 20 mg omeprazole bid was administrated for 3 wk. H. pylori status was assessed by histology, 13C-urea breath test and rapid urease test at baseline and 4-6 wk after completion of treatment. Ulcer cicatrization was assessed by gastroscopy. χ2 test (P < 0.05) was used to compare the eradication rates and ulcer cicatrisation rates among the three groups. RESULTS: The eradication rate was 83.33% (60/72) in group A, 88.89% (64/72) in group B, and 80.56% (58/71) in group C. The ulcer cicatrisation rate was 86.44% (51/59) in group A, 90.16% (55/61) in group B, and 84.91% (45/53) in group C. The sequential therapy yielded a higher eradication rate and ulcer cicatrisation rate than the standard triple and bismuth pectin quadruple therapies. Statistically, the eradication rate of group B was significantly different from groups A and C (P < 0.05), but the difference of ulcer cicatrisation rate and side effects was not statistically significant among the three groups (P > 0.05). The three protocols were generally well tolerated. CONCLUSION: The sequential therapy has achieved a significantly higher eradication

  19. [Quadruple regimens using domestically manufactured drugs in gastritis and duodenal ulcer patients for Helicobacter pylori eradication: a perspective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial].

    PubMed

    Gao, Wen; Hu, Fulian; Cheng, Hong; Wang, Huahong; Yang, Yunsheng; Liang, Hao; Zhang, Shutian; Meng, Fandong; Cui, Meihua; Wei, Hong; Sheng, Jianqiu; An, Hejuan J; Jiang, Bo; Chen, Ye; Li, Yanqing; Zuo, Xiuli; Gong, Jun; Zhao, Ping; Dong, Lei; Wang, Bangmao; Jiang, Kai; Zhang, Guiying; Li, Jiansheng; Zhao, Ye; Gao, Hengjun; Yang, Li

    2016-01-26

    To observe the effects and safety of quadruple regimens including domestically manufactured rabeprazole used as first line/initial therapy for Helicobacter pylori(H.pylori) eradication in gastritis and duodenal ulcer patients, and to investigate the effects of extended use of bismuth after the quadruple therapy on eradication of H. pylori. From January to August 2013, 430 patients with chronic gastritis or duodenal ulcer who were confirmed as H. pylori positive in gastroscopy for upper gastrointestinal symptoms were enrolled from 12 centers in China for initial treatment using quadruple regimens for H. pylori eradication. The study was a prospective, multicenter, randomized double-blinded double-dummy parallel-controlled clinical trial. The 310 chronic gastritis patients were divided into 2 groups: group A1 was given quadruple regime (rabeprazole+ amoxicillin+ clarithromycin+ bismuth potassium citrate) for 10 days followed by bismuth-placebo for 21 days; group A2 was given the quadruple regimen for 10 days and then bismuth potassium citrate for 21 days. The duodenal ulcer patients were given the quadruple for 10 days, then rabeprazole for 14 days. All the patients took (13)C urea breath test to detect H. pylori 28 days after medicine withdrawal. Altogether 428 cases were enrolled and 404 completed the trial. The total eradication rate in the chronic gastritis patients was 85.1% (262/308, intention-to-treat (ITT)analysis), which was 81.7% (125/153, ITT) in the A1 group and 88.4% (137/155, ITT) in the A2 group; the eradication rate in the duodenal ulcer patients was 85.8% (103/120, ITT). No severe adverse effects were reported. The symptoms (pain, burning sensation, reflux, belching, nausea, and vomiting) improvement status was similar among A1 and A2 groups. The quadruple regimen using rabeprazole manufactured in China and administered for 10 days as first line/initial therapy in chronic gastritis and duodenal ulcer patients could achieve good H. pylori eradication

  20. Quadruple screen test

    MedlinePlus

    ... with a family history of birth defects Normal Results Normal levels of AFP, hCG, uE3, and inhibin ... meaning of your specific test results. What Abnormal Results Mean An abnormal test result does NOT mean ...

  1. Tidal breakup of quadruple stars in the Galactic Centre

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fragione, Giacomo

    2018-06-01

    The most likely origin of hypervelocity stars (HVSs) is the tidal disruption of a binary star by the supermassive black hole (MBH) in the Galactic Centre (GC). However, HE0437-5439, a 9 M_⊙ B-type main-sequence star moving with a heliocentric radial velocity of about 720 km s^{-1} at a distance of ˜ 60{ kpc}, and the recent discovered hypervelocity binary candidate (HVB), traveling at ˜ 570 km s^{-1}, challenge this standard scenario. Recently, Fragione & Gualandris (2018) have demonstrated that the tidal breakup of a triple star leads to an insufficient rate. Observations show that quadruple stars made up of two binaries orbiting their common center of mass (the so-called 2+2 quadruples) are ≈4% of the stars in the solar neighborhood. Although rarer than triples, 2+2 quadruple stars may have a role in ejecting HVBs as due to their larger energy reservoir. We present a numerical study of 2+2 quadruple disruptions by the MBH in the GC and find that the production of HVBs has a probability ≲ 2 - 4%, which translates into an ejection rate of ≲ 1{ Gyr}^{-1}, comparable to the triple disruption scenario. Given the low ejection rate, we suggest that alternative mechanisms are responsible for the origin of HVBs, as the ejection from the interaction of a young star cluster with the MBH in the GC and the origin in the Large Magellanic Cloud.

  2. A graphene based frequency quadrupler

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Chuantong; Huang, Beiju; Mao, Xurui; Zhang, Zanyun; Zhang, Zan; Geng, Zhaoxin; Xue, Ping; Chen, Hongda

    2017-04-01

    Benefit from exceptional electrical transport properties, graphene receives worldwide attentions, especially in the domain of high frequency electronics. Due to absence of effective bandgap causing off-state the device, graphene material is extraordinarily suitable for analog circuits rather than digital applications. With this unique ambipolar behavior, graphene can be exploited and utilized to achieve high performance for frequency multipliers. Here, dual-gated graphene field-effect transistors have been firstly used to achieve frequency quadrupling. Two Dirac points in the transfer curves of the designed GFETs can be observed by tuning top-gate voltages, which is essential to generate the fourth harmonic. By applying 200 kHz sinusoid input, arround 50% of the output signal radio frequency power is concentrated at the desired frequency of 800 kHz. Additionally, in suitable operation areas, our devices can work as high performance frequency doublers and frequency triplers. Considered both simple device structure and potential superhigh carrier mobility of graphene material, graphene-based frequency quadruplers may have lots of superiorities in regards to ultrahigh frequency electronic applications in near future. Moreover, versatility of carbon material system is far-reaching for realization of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor compatible electrically active devices.

  3. Non-orthogonal spin-adaptation of coupled cluster methods: A new implementation of methods including quadruple excitations

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

    Matthews, Devin A., E-mail: dmatthews@utexas.edu; Stanton, John F.

    2015-02-14

    The theory of non-orthogonal spin-adaptation for closed-shell molecular systems is applied to coupled cluster methods with quadruple excitations (CCSDTQ). Calculations at this level of detail are of critical importance in describing the properties of molecular systems to an accuracy which can meet or exceed modern experimental techniques. Such calculations are of significant (and growing) importance in such fields as thermodynamics, kinetics, and atomic and molecular spectroscopies. With respect to the implementation of CCSDTQ and related methods, we show that there are significant advantages to non-orthogonal spin-adaption with respect to simplification and factorization of the working equations and to creating anmore » efficient implementation. The resulting algorithm is implemented in the CFOUR program suite for CCSDT, CCSDTQ, and various approximate methods (CCSD(T), CC3, CCSDT-n, and CCSDT(Q))« less

  4. A graphene based frequency quadrupler

    PubMed Central

    Cheng, Chuantong; Huang, Beiju; Mao, Xurui; Zhang, Zanyun; Zhang, Zan; Geng, Zhaoxin; Xue, Ping; Chen, Hongda

    2017-01-01

    Benefit from exceptional electrical transport properties, graphene receives worldwide attentions, especially in the domain of high frequency electronics. Due to absence of effective bandgap causing off-state the device, graphene material is extraordinarily suitable for analog circuits rather than digital applications. With this unique ambipolar behavior, graphene can be exploited and utilized to achieve high performance for frequency multipliers. Here, dual-gated graphene field-effect transistors have been firstly used to achieve frequency quadrupling. Two Dirac points in the transfer curves of the designed GFETs can be observed by tuning top-gate voltages, which is essential to generate the fourth harmonic. By applying 200 kHz sinusoid input, arround 50% of the output signal radio frequency power is concentrated at the desired frequency of 800 kHz. Additionally, in suitable operation areas, our devices can work as high performance frequency doublers and frequency triplers. Considered both simple device structure and potential superhigh carrier mobility of graphene material, graphene-based frequency quadruplers may have lots of superiorities in regards to ultrahigh frequency electronic applications in near future. Moreover, versatility of carbon material system is far-reaching for realization of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor compatible electrically active devices. PMID:28418013

  5. Rabeprazole can overcome the impact of CYP2C19 polymorphism on quadruple therapy.

    PubMed

    Kuo, Chao-Hung; Wang, Sophie S W; Hsu, Wen-Hung; Kuo, Fu-Chen; Weng, Bi-Chuang; Li, Chia-Jung; Hsu, Ping-I; Chen, Angela; Hung, Wen-Chun; Yang, Yuan-Chieh; Wang, Wen-Ming; Wu, Deng-Chyang

    2010-08-01

    The prospective study was designed to clarify the impact of CYP2C19 on quadruple therapies and survey the efficacies of rabeprazole-based quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection after failure of standard triple therapies. From January 2007 to March 2009, 1055 H. pylori-infected patients received standard triple regimens (proton-pump inhibitor (PPI), clarithromycin, and amoxicillin). Helicobacter pylori eradication was achieved in 865 (81.9%) subjects. One hundred ninety eradication-failure patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive a 7-day eradication therapy. Ninety-six patients were treated with esomeprazole-based quadruple rescue therapies (EB), while 94 patients were treated with rabeprazole-based quadruple rescue therapies (RB). Follow-up endoscopy was done 16 weeks later to assess the treatment response. Patients' responses, CYP2C19 genotypes, and antibiotics resistances were also examined. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed that RB had better eradication rates than EB (EB: 72.9%; 95% CI: 64.9-80.9% and RB: 78.7%; 95% CI 72.5-84.9%) (p value = .543). Per-protocol results were EB = 75.3%; 95% CI: 70.3-80.3% and RB = 85.1%; 95% CI: 80.6-89.6% (p value = .0401). Both regimens had similar compliance (p value = 0.155) and adverse events (p value = 0.219). We also surveyed those patients without resistance of any antibiotics. RB still showed better outcome than EB. Our data showed that esomeprazole-based regimen and CYP2C19 Hom EM genotype were important predictors for eradication failure. In quadruple therapy, rabeprazole-based regimens had better efficacy than esomeprazole-based regimens. CYP2C19 polymorphism also played an important role in quadruple therapy. It seems advisable to change PPI to rabeprazole in second-line quadruple therapy.

  6. Second-line rescue triple therapy with levofloxacin after failure of non-bismuth quadruple "sequential" or "concomitant" treatment to eradicate H. pylori infection.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Molina-Infante, Javier; Marin, Alicia C; Vinagre, Gemma; Barrio, Jesus; McNicholl, Adrian Gerald

    2013-06-01

    Non-bismuth quadruple "sequential" and "concomitant" regimens, including a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), amoxicillin, clarithromycin and a nitroimidazole, are increasingly used as first-line treatments for Helicobacter pylori infection. Eradication with rescue regimens may be challenging after failure of key antibiotics such as clarithromycin and nitroimidazoles. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a second-line levofloxacin-containing triple regimen (PPI-amoxicillin-levofloxacin) in the eradication of H. pylori after non-bismuth quadruple-containing treatment failure. prospective multicenter study. in whom a non-bismuth quadruple regimen, administered either sequentially (PPI + amoxicillin for 5 days followed by PPI + clarithromycin + metronidazole for 5 more days) or concomitantly (PPI + amoxicillin + clarithromycin + metronidazole for 10 days) had previously failed. levofloxacin (500 mg b.i.d.), amoxicillin (1 g b.i.d.) and PPI (standard dose b.i.d.) for 10 days. eradication was confirmed with (13)C-urea breath test 4-8 weeks after therapy. Compliance and tolerance: compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. Incidence of adverse effects was evaluated by means of a questionnaire. 100 consecutive patients were included (mean age 50 years, 62% females, 12% peptic ulcer and 88% dyspepsia): 37 after "sequential", and 63 after "concomitant" treatment failure. All patients took all medications correctly. Overall, per-protocol and intention-to-treat H. pylori eradication rates were 75.5% (95% CI 66-85%) and 74% (65-83%). Respective intention-to-treat cure rates for "sequential" and "concomitant" failure regimens were 74.4% and 71.4%, respectively. Adverse effects were reported in six (6%) patients; all of them were mild. Ten-day levofloxacin-containing triple therapy constitutes an encouraging second-line strategy in patients with previous non-bismuth quadruple "sequential" or "concomitant" treatment failure.

  7. A VLT/NACO survey for triple and quadruple systems among visual pre-main sequence binaries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Correia, S.; Zinnecker, H.; Ratzka, Th.; Sterzik, M. F.

    2006-12-01

    Aims.This paper describes a systematic search for high-order multiplicity among wide visual Pre-Main Sequence (PMS) binaries. Methods: .We conducted an Adaptive Optics survey of a sample of 58 PMS wide binaries from various star-forming regions, which include 52 T Tauri systems with mostly K- and M-type primaries, with the NIR instrument NACO at the VLT. Results: .Of these 52 systems, 7 are found to be triple (2 new) and 7 quadruple (1 new). The new close companions are most likely physically bound based on their probability of chance projection and, for some of them, on their position on a color-color diagram. The corresponding degree of multiplicity among wide binaries (number of triples and quadruples divided by the number of systems) is 26.9 ± 7.2% in the projected separation range ~0.07 arcsec -12'', with the largest contribution from the Taurus-Auriga cloud. We also found that this degree of multiplicity is twice in Taurus compared to Ophiuchus and Chamaeleon for which the same number of sources are present in our sample. Considering a restricted sample composed of systems at distance 140-190 pc, the degree of multiplicity is 26.8 ± 8.1%, in the separation range 10/14 AU-1700/2300 AU (30 binaries, 5 triples, 6 quadruples). The observed frequency agrees with results from previous multiplicity surveys within the uncertainties, although a significant overabundance of quadruple systems compared to triple systems is apparent. Tentatively including the spectroscopic pairs in our restricted sample and comparing the multiplicity fractions to those measured for solar-type main-sequence stars in the solar neighborhood leads to the conclusion that both the ratio of triples to binaries and the ratio of quadruples to triples seems to be in excess among young stars. Most of the current numerical simulations of multiple star formation, and especially smoothed particles hydrodynamics simulations, over-predict the fraction of high-order multiplicity when compared to our

  8. Two-week, high-dose proton pump inhibitor, moxifloxacin triple Helicobacter pylori therapy after failure of standard triple or non-bismuth quadruple treatments.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Romano, Marco; Molina-Infante, Javier; Lucendo, Alfredo J; Medina, Enrique; Modolell, Inés; Rodríguez-Tellez, Manuel; Gomez, Blas; Barrio, Jesús; Perona, Monica; Ortuño, Juan; Ariño, Inés; Domínguez-Muñoz, Juan Enrique; Perez-Aisa, Ángeles; Bermejo, Fernando; Domínguez, Jose Luis; Almela, Pedro; Gomez-Camarero, Judith; Millastre, Judith; Martin-Noguerol, Elisa; Gravina, Antonietta G; Martorano, Marco; Miranda, Agnese; Federico, Alessandro; Fernandez-Bermejo, Miguel; Angueira, Teresa; Ferrer-Barcelo, Luis; Fernández, Nuria; Marín, Alicia C; McNicholl, Adrián G

    2015-02-01

    Aim was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a moxifloxacin-containing second-line triple regimen in patients whose previous Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment failed. Prospective multicentre study including patients in whom a triple therapy or a non-bismuth-quadruple-therapy failed. Moxifloxacin (400mg qd), amoxicillin (1g bid), and esomeprazole (40 mg bid) were prescribed for 14 days. Eradication was confirmed by (13)C-urea-breath-test. Compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. 250 patients were consecutively included (mean age 48 ± 15 years, 11% with ulcer). Previous (failed) therapy included: standard triple (n = 179), sequential (n = 27), and concomitant (n = 44); 97% of patients took all medications, 4 were lost to follow-up. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol eradication rates were 82.4% (95% CI, 77-87%) and 85.7% (95% CI, 81-90%). Cure rates were similar independently of diagnosis (ulcer, 77%; dyspepsia, 82%) and previous treatment (standard triple, 83%; sequential, 89%; concomitant, 77%). At multivariate analysis, only age was associated with eradication (OR = 0.957; 95% CI, 0.933-0.981). Adverse events were reported in 25.2% of patients: diarrhoea (9.6%), abdominal pain (9.6%), and nausea (9.2%). 14-day moxifloxacin-containing triple therapy is an effective and safe second-line strategy in patients whose previous standard triple therapy or non-bismuth quadruple (sequential or concomitant) therapy has failed, providing a simple alternative to bismuth quadruple regimen. Copyright © 2014 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. First-line treatment of Helicobacter pylori in Lebanon: Comparison of bismuth-containing quadruple therapy versus 14-days sequential therapy.

    PubMed

    Tarhini, Mahdi; Fayyad-Kazan, Mohammad; Fayyad-Kazan, Hussein; Mokbel, Mahmoud; Nasreddine, Mohammad; Badran, Bassam; Kchour, Ghada

    2018-04-01

    Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and represents a strong risk factor for gastric cancer. Treatment of H. Pylori is, therefore, a persistent need to avoid serious medical complications. Resistance to antibiotics remains to be the major challenge for H. Pylori eradication. In this study, we determined the prevalence of H. pylori infection and evaluated H. pylori eradication efficacy of bismuth-containing quadruple therapy (Pylera) versus 14-days sequential therapy in treatment naïve-Lebanese patients. 1030 patients, showing symptoms of peptic ulcer (PU) and gastritis, underwent 14 C-Urea Breath Test and esophagogastroduodenoscopy to examine H. Pylori infection and gastrointestinal disorders. Among the H. Pylori-positive patients 60 individuals were randomly selected, separated into two groups (each consisting of 30 patients) and treated with either bismuth-containing quadruple therapy or 14-days sequential therapy. We show that of the 1050 patients tested: 46.2% were H. pylori-positive, 55% had gastritis, 46.2% had both gastritis and H. pylori infection, 8.8% had gastritis but no H. pylori infection, 44.9% had neither gastritis nor H. pylori infection. Following the 14-days sequential therapy, the eradication rate was significantly higher than that obtained upon using bismuth-containing quadruple therapy [80% (24/30) versus 50% (15/30), χ 2  = 5.93, P = 0.015]. In conclusion, we determined H. pylori and gastritis prevalence among Lebanese PU-patients and showed that 14-days sequential therapy is more efficient than bismuth-containing quadruple therapy in terms of H. Pylori-eradication. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  10. Augmented Quadruple-Phase Contrast Media Administration and Triphasic Scan Protocol Increases Image Quality at Reduced Radiation Dose During Computed Tomography Urography.

    PubMed

    Saade, Charbel; Mohamad, May; Kerek, Racha; Hamieh, Nadine; Alsheikh Deeb, Ibrahim; El-Achkar, Bassam; Tamim, Hani; Abdul Razzak, Farah; Haddad, Maurice; Abi-Ghanem, Alain S; El-Merhi, Fadi

    The aim of this article was to investigate the opacification of the renal vasculature and the urogenital system during computed tomography urography by using a quadruple-phase contrast media in a triphasic scan protocol. A total of 200 patients with possible urinary tract abnormalities were equally divided between 2 protocols. Protocol A used the conventional single bolus and quadruple-phase scan protocol (pre, arterial, venous, and delayed), retrospectively. Protocol B included a quadruple-phase contrast media injection with a triphasic scan protocol (pre, arterial and combined venous, and delayed), prospectively. Each protocol used 100 mL contrast and saline at a flow rate of 4.5 mL. Attenuation profiles and contrast-to-noise ratio of the renal arteries, veins, and urogenital tract were measured. Effective radiation dose calculation, data analysis by independent sample t test, receiver operating characteristic, and visual grading characteristic analyses were performed. In arterial circulation, only the inferior interlobular arteries in both protocols showed a statistical significance (P < 0.05). Venously, the inferior vena cava, proximal and distal renal veins demonstrated a significant opacification reduction in protocol B than in protocol A (P < 0.001). Protocol B showed a significantly higher mean contrast-to-noise ratio than protocol A (protocol B: 22.68 ± 13.72; protocol A: 14.75 ± 5.76; P < 0.001). Radiation dose was significantly reduced in protocol B (7.38 ± 2.22 mSv) than in protocol A (12.28 ± 2.72 mSv) (P < 0.001). Visual grading characteristic (P < 0.027) and receiver operating characteristic (P < 0.0001) analyses demonstrated a significant preference for protocol B. In computed tomography urography, augmented quadruple-phase contrast media and triphasic scan protocol usage increases the image quality at a reduced radiation dose.

  11. [Influence of Saccharomyces boulardii Sachets combined with bismuth quadruple therapy for initial Helicobacter pylori eradication].

    PubMed

    Zhu, X Y; Du, J; Wu, J; Zhao, L W; Meng, X; Liu, G F

    2017-08-08

    Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii Sachets combined with bismuth quadruple therapy for initial Helicobacter pylori ( H . pylori ) eradication. Methods: From March 2014 to March 2015, 240 participants from the third hospital of Hebei medical university with H . pylori infection were recruited and randomized into three groups: Quadruple therapy group received bismuth potassium citrate 220 mg bid + Rabeprazole 10 mg bid + amoxicillin 1 000 mg bid+ furazolidone 100 mg bid for 10 days. Short-term group and long-term group received the same quadruple therapy for 10 days as above, as well as Saccharomyces boulardii Sachets 500 mg bid for 14 days and 28 days, respectively. H . pylori eradication was confirmed by (13)C/(14)C-UBT at least 4 weeks after completion of therapy. And side effects were investigated during the therapy. Results: The H . pylori eradication rates in quadruple therapy, short-term and long-term group were 80%, 87.5% and 87.5% by ITT analysis ( P =0.321) and 92.8%, 94.6% and 95.9% by PP analysis ( P =0.717), respectively. The overall side effect rate and occurrence of diarrhea and abdominal distension were significantly lower in short-term or long-term group as compared with quadruple therapy group( P =0.007, 0.003, 0.004), but there was no significant difference between the two probiotics groups. Conclusions: Both short and long-term Saccharomyces boulardii Sachets reduced the overall side effect rate and occurrence of diarrhea or abdominal distension when combined with bismuth quadruple therapy for initial H . pylori eradication and no difference was observed in efficacy or safety between the two groups.

  12. Filterless low-phase-noise frequency-quadrupled microwave generation based on a multimode optoelectronic oscillator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Teng, Yichao; Zhang, Pin; Zhang, Baofu; Chen, Yiwang

    2018-02-01

    A scheme to realize low-phase-noise frequency-quadrupled microwave generation without any filter is demonstrated. In this scheme, a multimode optoelectronic oscillator is mainly contributed by dual-parallel Mach-Zehnder modulators, fiber, photodetector, and microwave amplifier. The local source signal is modulated by a child MZM (MZMa), which is worked at maximum transmission point. Through properly adjusting the bias voltages of the other child MZM (MZMb) and the parent MZM (MZMc), optical carrier is effectively suppressed and second sidebands are retained, then the survived optical signal is fed back to the photodetector and MZMb to form an optoelectronic hybrid resonator and realize frequency-quadrupled signal generation. Due to the high Q-factor and mode selection effect of the optoelectronic hybrid resonator, compared with the source signal, the generated frequency-quadrupled signal has a lower phase noise. The approach has verified by experiments, and 18, 22, and 26 GHz frequency-quadrupled signal are generated by 4.5, 5.5, and 6.5 GHz local source signals. Compared with 4.5 GHz source signal, the phase noise of generated 18 GHz signal at 10 kHz frequency offset has 26.5 dB reduction.

  13. EPIC 219217635: A Doubly Eclipsing Quadruple System Containing an Evolved Binary

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Borkovits, T.; Albrecht, S.; Rappaport, S.; Nelson, L.; Vanderburg, A.; Gary, B. L.; Tan, T. G.; Justesen, A. B.; Kristiansen, M. H.; Jacobs, T. L.; LaCourse, D.; Ngo, H.; Wallack, N.; Ruane, G.; Mawet, D.; Howell, S. B.; Tronsgaard, R.

    2018-05-01

    We have discovered a doubly eclipsing, bound, quadruple star system in the field of K2 Campaign 7. EPIC 219217635 is a stellar image with Kp = 12.7 that contains an eclipsing binary (`EB') with PA = 3.59470 d and a second EB with PB = 0.61825 d. We have obtained followup radial-velocity (`RV') spectroscopy observations, adaptive optics imaging, as well as ground-based photometric observations. From our analysis of all the observations, we derive good estimates for a number of the system parameters. We conclude that (1) both binaries are bound in a quadruple star system; (2) a linear trend to the RV curve of binary A is found over a 2-year interval, corresponding to an acceleration, \\dot{γ }= 0.0024 ± 0.0007 cm s-2; (3) small irregular variations are seen in the eclipse-timing variations (`ETVs') detected over the same interval; (4) the orbital separation of the quadruple system is probably in the range of 8-25 AU; and (5) the orbital planes of the two binaries must be inclined with respect to each other by at least 25°. In addition, we find that binary B is evolved, and the cooler and currently less massive star has transferred much of its envelope to the currently more massive star. We have also demonstrated that the system is sufficiently bright that the eclipses can be followed using small ground-based telescopes, and that this system may be profitably studied over the next decade when the outer orbit of the quadruple is expected to manifest itself in the ETV and/or RV curves.

  14. Subfactors of Index Less Than 5, Part 3: Quadruple Points

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Izumi, Masaki; Jones, Vaughan F. R.; Morrison, Scott; Snyder, Noah

    2012-12-01

    One major obstacle in extending the classification of small index subfactors beyond {3 +sqrt{3}} is the appearance of infinite families of candidate principal graphs with 4-valent vertices (in particular, the "weeds" {{Q}} and {{Q}'} from Part 1 (Morrison and Snyder in Commun. Math. Phys., doi: 10.1007/s00220-012-1426-y, 2012). Thus instead of using triple point obstructions to eliminate candidate graphs, we need to develop new quadruple point obstructions. In this paper we prove two quadruple point obstructions. The first uses quadratic tangles techniques and eliminates the weed {{Q}'} immediately. The second uses connections, and when combined with an additional number theoretic argument it eliminates both weeds {{Q}} and {{Q}'} . Finally, we prove the uniqueness (up to taking duals) of the 3311 Goodman-de la Harpe-Jones subfactor using a combination of planar algebra techniques and connections.

  15. Dynamic viscoelasticity measurement under alternative torque using electromagnetically spinning method with quadruple electromagnets.

    PubMed

    Matsuura, Yusuke; Hirano, Taichi; Sakai, Keiji

    2017-07-01

    In this study, we developed a novel type of rheological measurement system. Here, a spherical probe is driven to rotate periodically by applying torques using quadruple electromagnets in a noncontact manner. Moreover, this system is an enhancement of our electromagnetically spinning (EMS) viscometer, which is widely used for measuring rheological flow curves in various industrial fields. The quadruple EMS method provides the frequency spectrum of viscoelasticity, in addition to shear viscosity, in a steady flow by switching the operation modes of the driving torque. We show the results obtained for Newtonian fluids and viscoelastic materials and demonstrate the validity of the system.

  16. Antinociceptive interactions of triple and quadruple combinations of endogenous ligands at the spinal level.

    PubMed

    Horvath, Gyongyi; Kekesi, Gabriella; Tuboly, Gabor; Benedek, Gyorgy

    2007-06-25

    A very interesting and rapidly developing field of pain research is related to the roles of different endogenous ligands. This study determined the antinociceptive interactions of triple and quadruple combinations of different endogenous ligands (endomorphin-1, adenosine, agmatine and kynurenic acid) on carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain model at the spinal level. Intrathecal infusion (60 min) of these drugs alone, in double, triple or quadruple combinations, was followed by a 60-min observation period. During the infusion, antihyperalgesic effect of 0.3 microg/min endomorphin-1 was higher in the triple combinations than those in the double combinations. After cessation of drug administration, only the combination of 0.3 microg/min endomorphin-1, 1 microg/min agmatine, and 0.3 microg/min adenosine was more effective than the double combinations. In quadruple combinations, the antinociceptive effects of both 0.1 and 0.3 microg/min endomorphin-1 were significantly potentiated by the otherwise ineffective triple combination of adenosine, agmatine, and kynurenic acid. No side effects could be observed at these doses. These results demonstrate that triple and quadruple combinations of these endogenous ligands caused more effective antihyperalgesia compared with double combinations. Accordingly, the doses of these substances could be further reduced, thus, reinforcing the view that complex activation and/or inhibition of different systems can be sufficiently effective in blocking nociception without adverse effects. Because all of these drugs had effects on various receptors and systems, the possible types of these interactions were discussed.

  17. How to Effectively Use Bismuth Quadruple Therapy: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

    PubMed Central

    Graham, David Y.; Lee, Sun-Young

    2015-01-01

    Bismuth triple therapy was the first truly effective Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. The addition of a proton pump inhibitor largely overcame the problem of metronidazole resistance. Resistance to its being the primary first line therapy have centered on convenience (the large number of tablets required) and side effects causing difficulties with patient adherence. Understanding why the regimen is less successful in some regions remains unexplained in part because of the lack of studies including susceptibility testing. A number of modifications have been proposed such as twice-a-day therapy which addresses both major criticism but the studies with susceptibility testing required to prove its effectiveness in high metronidazole resistance areas are lacking. Most publications lack the data required to understand why they were successful or failed (e.g., detailed resistance and adherence data) and are therefore of little value. We discuss and provide recommendations regarding variations including substitution of doxycycline, amoxicillin, and twice a day therapy. We describe what is known and unknown and provide suggestions regarding what is needed to rationally and effectively use bismuth quadruple therapy. Its primary use is when penicillin cannot be used or when clarithromycin and metronidazole resistance is common. Durations of therapy less than 14 days are not recommended. PMID:26314667

  18. Ternary Polymeric Composites Exhibiting Bulk and Surface Quadruple-Shape Memory Properties.

    PubMed

    Buffington, Shelby Lois; Posnick, Benjamin M; Paul, Justine Elizabeth; Mather, Patrick T

    2018-06-19

    We report the design and characterization of a multiphase quadruple shape memory composite capable of switching between 4 programmed shapes, three temporary and one permanent. Our approach combined two previously reported fabrication methods by embedding an electrospun mat of PCL in a miscible blend of epoxy monomers and PMMA as a composite matrix. As epoxy polymerization occurred the matrix underwent phase separation between the epoxy and PMMA materials. This created a multiphase composite with PCL fibers and a two-phase matrix composed of phase-separated epoxy and PMMA. The resulting composite demonstrated three separate thermal transitions and amenability to mechanical programming of three separate temporary shapes in addition to one final, equilibrium shape. In addition, quadruple surface shape memory abilities are successfully demonstrated. The versatility of this approach offers a large degree of design flexibility for multi-shape memory materials. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Ten-day bismuth-containing quadruple therapy is effective as first-line therapy for Helicobacter pylori-related chronic gastritis: a prospective randomized study in China.

    PubMed

    Wang, L; Lin, Z; Chen, S; Li, J; Chen, C; Huang, Z; Ye, B; Ding, J; Li, W; Wu, L; Jiang, Y; Meng, L; Du, Q; Si, J

    2017-06-01

    To investigate the effectiveness of 10-day bismuth-containing quadruple (B-quadruple) treatment as first-line therapy in patients with Helicobacter pylori-related chronic gastritis. A randomized controlled trial was conducted from October 2011 to December 2013 in Zhejiang, China, including patients with H. pylori-related chronic gastritis who were randomly provided either 10-day omeprazole-based triple therapy (OM-triple; omeprazole 20 mg twice daily, clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 1 g twice daily) or 10-day B-quadruple therapy (OM-triple + bismuth subcitrate 120 mg four times daily). H. pylori status, pathologic findings and dyspeptic symptoms were assessed at baseline and after 3 months. The primary outcome was H. pylori eradication rates by intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses. The secondary outcomes were the histologic and symptomatic benefits from H. pylori eradication. A total of 351 patients with H. pylori-related chronic gastritis were recruited. The eradication rates of the OM-triple and B-quadruple groups were 58.4% (108/185) and 86.1% (143/166) respectively according to ITT analysis (p <0.01). PP rates of H. pylori eradication were 63.2% (108/171) and 92.3% (143/155) respectively (p <0.01). According to the PP analysis, active and chronic inflammation in gastric mucosa was substantially improved in all treated patients (n=326). However, pathologic atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia did not regress in both groups (n=326). The reduction of dyspeptic symptoms score was significantly higher in the B-quadruple group than in the OM-triple group (0.59±0.057 vs. 0.39±0.046) (p <0.01). Ten-day B-quadruple therapy is more effective than OM-triple therapy as first-line therapy for patients with H. pylori-induced chronic gastritis in China. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  20. Simultaneous quadruple modal nonlinear optical imaging for gastric diseases diagnosis and characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zi; Zheng, Wei; Lin, Jian; Huang, Zhiwei

    2015-03-01

    We report the development of a unique simultaneous quadruple-modal nonlinear optical microscopy (i.e., stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), second-harmonic generation (SHG), two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF), and third-harmonic generation (THG)) platform for characterization of the gastric diseases (i.e., gastritis, intestinal metaplasia (IM), intestinal type adenocarcinoma). SRS highlights the goblet cells found in IM. SHG images the distribution of collagen in lamina propria. Collagen is found to aggregate for intestinal type adenocarcinoma. TPEF reveals the cell morphology and can reflect the damage inside glands caused by the diseases. THG visualizes the nuclei with high spatial resolution, which facilitates the identification of neutrophils that are usually used as a feature of inflammation. This work shows that the co-registration of quadruple-modal images can be an effective means for diagnosis and characterization of gastric diseases at the cellular and molecular levels.

  1. Light and Electrically Induced Phase Segregation and Its Impact on the Stability of Quadruple Cation High Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells.

    PubMed

    Duong, The; Mulmudi, Hemant Kumar; Wu, YiLiang; Fu, Xiao; Shen, Heping; Peng, Jun; Wu, Nandi; Nguyen, Hieu T; Macdonald, Daniel; Lockrey, Mark; White, Thomas P; Weber, Klaus; Catchpole, Kylie

    2017-08-16

    Perovskite material with a bandgap of 1.7-1.8 eV is highly desirable for the top cell in a tandem configuration with a lower bandgap bottom cell, such as a silicon cell. This can be achieved by alloying iodide and bromide anions, but light-induced phase-segregation phenomena are often observed in perovskite films of this kind, with implications for solar cell efficiency. Here, we investigate light-induced phase segregation inside quadruple-cation perovskite material in a complete cell structure and find that the magnitude of this phenomenon is dependent on the operating condition of the solar cell. Under short-circuit and even maximum power point conditions, phase segregation is found to be negligible compared to the magnitude of segregation under open-circuit conditions. In accordance with the finding, perovskite cells based on quadruple-cation perovskite with 1.73 eV bandgap retain 94% of the original efficiency after 12 h operation at the maximum power point, while the cell only retains 82% of the original efficiency after 12 h operation at the open-circuit condition. This result highlights the need to have standard methods including light/dark and bias condition for testing the stability of perovskite solar cells. Additionally, phase segregation is observed when the cell was forward biased at 1.2 V in the dark, which indicates that photoexcitation is not required to induce phase segregation.

  2. From Triple to Quadruple Aim: Care of the Patient Requires Care of the Provider

    PubMed Central

    Bodenheimer, Thomas; Sinsky, Christine

    2014-01-01

    The Triple Aim—enhancing patient experience, improving population health, and reducing costs—is widely accepted as a compass to optimize health system performance. Yet physicians and other members of the health care workforce report widespread burnout and dissatisfaction. Burnout is associated with lower patient satisfaction, reduced health outcomes, and it may increase costs. Burnout thus imperils the Triple Aim. This article recommends that the Triple Aim be expanded to a Quadruple Aim, adding the goal of improving the work life of health care providers, including clinicians and staff. PMID:25384822

  3. Dynamics of quadruple systems composed of two binaries: stars, white dwarfs, and implications for Ia supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Xiao; Thompson, Todd A.; Hirata, Christopher M.

    2018-05-01

    We investigate the long-term secular dynamics and Lidov-Kozai (LK) eccentricity oscillations of quadruple systems composed of two binaries at quadrupole and octupole orders in the perturbing Hamiltonian. We show that the fraction of systems reaching high eccentricities is enhanced relative to triple systems, over a broader range of parameter space. We show that this fraction grows with time, unlike triple systems evolved at quadrupole order. This is fundamentally because with their additional degrees of freedom, quadruple systems do not have a maximal set of commuting constants of the motion, even in secular theory at quadrupole order. We discuss these results in the context of star-star and white dwarf-white dwarf (WD) binaries, with emphasis on WD-WD mergers and collisions relevant to the Type Ia supernova problem. For star-star systems, we find that more than 30 per cent of systems reach high eccentricity within a Hubble time, potentially forming triple systems via stellar mergers or close binaries. For WD-WD systems, taking into account general relativistic and tidal precession and dissipation, we show that the merger rate is enhanced in quadruple systems relative to triple systems by a factor of 3.5-10, and that the long-term evolution of quadruple systems leads to a delay-time distribution ˜1/t for mergers and collisions. In gravitational wave-driven mergers of compact objects, we classify the mergers by their evolutionary patterns in phase space and identify a regime in about 8 per cent of orbital shrinking mergers, where eccentricity oscillations occur on the general relativistic precession time-scale, rather than the much longer LK time-scale. Finally, we generalize previous treatments of oscillations in the inner binary eccentricity (evection) to eccentric mutual orbits. We assess the merger rate in quadruple and triple systems and the implications for their viability as progenitors of stellar mergers and Type Ia supernovae.

  4. Understanding Quadruple Helix Relationships of University Technology Commercialisation: A Micro-Level Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McAdam, Maura; Miller, Kristel; McAdam, Rodney

    2018-01-01

    Given recent demands for more co-creational university technology commercialisation processes involving industry and end users, this paper adopts a micro-level approach to explore the challenges faced by universities when managing Quadruple Helix stakeholders within technology commercialisation processes. To explore this research question, a…

  5. The shortest Th-Th distance from a new type of quadruple bond.

    PubMed

    Hu, Han-Shi; Kaltsoyannis, Nikolas

    2017-02-15

    Compounds featuring unsupported metal-metal bonds between actinide elements remain highly sought after yet confined experimentally to inert gas matrix studies. Notwithstanding this paucity, actinide-actinide bonding has been the subject of extensive computational research. In this contribution, high level quantum chemical calculations at both the scalar and spin-orbit levels are used to probe the Th-Th bonding in a range of zero valent systems of general formula LThThL. Several of these compounds have very short Th-Th bonds arising from a new type of Th-Th quadruple bond with a previously unreported electronic configuration featuring two unpaired electrons in 6d-based δ bonding orbitals. H 3 AsThThAsH 3 is found to have the shortest Th-Th bond yet reported (2.590 Å). The Th 2 unit is a highly sensitive probe of ligand electron donor/acceptor ability; we can tune the Th-Th bond from quadruple to triple, double and single by judicious choice of the L group, up to 2.888 Å for singly-bonded ONThThNO.

  6. Self-aligned quadruple patterning-compliant placement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakajima, Fumiharu; Kodama, Chikaaki; Nakayama, Koichi; Nojima, Shigeki; Kotani, Toshiya

    2015-03-01

    Self-Aligned Quadruple Patterning (SAQP) will be one of the leading candidates for sub-14nm node and beyond. However, compared with triple patterning, making a feasible standard cell placement has following problems. (1) When coloring conflicts occur between two adjoining cells, they may not be solved easily since SAQP layout has stronger coloring constraints. (2) SAQP layout cannot use stitch to solve coloring conflict. In this paper, we present a framework of SAQP-aware standard cell placement considering the above problems. When standard cell is placed, the proposed method tries to solve coloring conflicts between two cells by exchanging two of three colors. If some conflicts remain between adjoining cells, dummy space will be inserted to keep coloring constraints of SAQP. We show some examples to confirm effectiveness of the proposed framework. To our best knowledge, this is the first framework of SAQP-aware standard cell placement.

  7. Ultrafast Exciton Delocalization, Localization, and Excimer Formation Dynamics in a Highly Defined Perylene Bisimide Quadruple π-Stack.

    PubMed

    Kaufmann, Christina; Kim, Woojae; Nowak-Król, Agnieszka; Hong, Yongseok; Kim, Dongho; Würthner, Frank

    2018-03-28

    An adequately designed, bay-tethered perylene bisimide (PBI) dimer Bis-PBI was synthesized by Pd/Cu-catalyzed Glaser-type oxidative homocoupling of the respective PBI building block. This newly synthesized PBI dimer self-assembles exclusively and with high binding constants of up to 10 6 M -1 into a discrete π-stack of four chromophores. Steady-state absorption and emission spectra show the signatures of H-type excitonic coupling among the dye units. Broadband fluorescence upconversion spectroscopy (FLUPS) reveals an ultrafast dynamics in the optically excited state. An initially coherent Frenkel exciton state that is delocalized over the whole quadruple stack rapidly (τ = ∼200 fs) loses its coherence and relaxes into an excimer state. Comparison with Frenkel exciton dynamics in PBI dimeric and oligomeric H-aggregates demonstrates that in the quadruple stack coherent exciton propagation is absent due to its short length of aggregates, thereby it has only one relaxation pathway to the excimer state. Furthermore, the absence of pump-power dependence in transient absorption experiments suggests that multiexciton cannot be generated in the quadruple stack, which is in line with time-resolved fluorescence measurements.

  8. TRICARE Policy and Operations: Evolving to Support the Quadruple Aim

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-01-24

    Examples of Evolution – TRICARE in Alaska – Autism Services Demonstration 2011 MHS Conference 3 Track L  Evolving to achieve the Quadruple Aim...Heidelberg MEDDAC Lessons Learned 1, 2, 3, 4 1, 2, 3, 4 2 a. TRICARE in Alaska b. Autism Services Demonstration c. A Regional View 3 1 1, 2...3, 4 3 TRICARE Pharmacy Programs 3, 4 4 TRICARE for Reserves and National Guard 1, 2, 3 5 TRICARE Dental Programs 1, 2, 4 6 a

  9. The Quadruple-lined, Doubly Eclipsing System V482 Persei

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Torres, Guillermo; Sandberg Lacy, Claud H.; Fekel, Francis C.; Wolf, Marek; Muterspaugh, Matthew W.

    2017-09-01

    We report spectroscopic and differential photometric observations of the A-type system V482 Per, which reveal it to be a rare hierarchical quadruple system containing two eclipsing binaries. One binary has the previously known orbital period of 2.4 days and a circular orbit, and the other a period of 6 days, a slightly eccentric orbit (e = 0.11), and shallow eclipses only 2.3% deep. The two binaries revolve around their common center of mass in a highly elongated orbit (e = 0.85) with a period of 16.67 yr. Radial velocities are measured for all components from our quadruple-lined spectra and are combined with the light curves and measurements of times of minimum light for the 2.4 day binary to solve for the elements of the inner and outer orbits simultaneously. The line-of-sight inclination angles of the three orbits are similar, suggesting they may be close to coplanar. The available observations appear to indicate that the 6 day binary experiences significant retrograde apsidal motion in the amount of about 60 deg per century. We derive absolute masses for the four stars good to better than 1.5%, along with radii with formal errors of 1.1% and 3.5% for the 2.4 day binary and ˜9% for the 6 day binary. A comparison of these and other physical properties with current stellar evolution models gives excellent agreement for a metallicity of [{Fe}/{{H}}]=-0.15 and an age of 360 Myr.

  10. Quadruple parallel mass Spectrometry for analysis of vitamin D and triacylglycerols in a dietary supplement

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    A ‘dilute-and-shoot’ method for vitamin D and triacylglycerols is demonstrated that employed four mass spectrometers, operating in different ionization modes, for a ‘quadruple parallel mass spectrometry’ analysis, plus three other detectors, for seven detectors overall. Sets of five samples of diet...

  11. Quadruple primary urogenital cancers - A case report.

    PubMed

    Elec, Florin-Ioan; Zaharie, Andreea; Ene, Bogdan-Mihai; Ghervan, Liviu

    2017-01-01

    Urogenital cancers are not an uncommon occurrence in daily practice. Prostate cancer is the second most frequent cancer in men, kidney cancer accounts for 2.4% of all cancers and bladder cancers represent 3.1% of cancers in both men and women [1]. However, the cases of a simultaneous development of all three cancers, including one with a neuroendocrine component, are very few and far between. Our case report involves a case of a patient with prostate adenocarcinoma, clear-cell renal carcinoma, papillary renal carcinoma and small-cell bladder cancer. The patient was treated as if he had separate pathologies by a multidisciplinary team: surgical and oncological, performing radical cystoprostatectomy with left perifascial nephroureterectomy, right ureterostomy and adjuvant chemotherapy, with excellent outcome even four years after the initial diagnosis. The distinct features of this case are the occurence of four different malignancies of the urogenital system, the family history of colon cancer, the development of small-cell carcinoma of the bladder, which is extremely rare and the good outcome, despite the quadruple malignancies and the aggresivity of the small-cell carcinoma. Mutiple primary malignancies are a relatively rare pathology, but should be considered as a possibility in patients who already had a second malignancy. Cases of patients with MPMs should be supervised by a multidisciplinary team and should be followed closely. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  12. Optical millimeter-wave signal generation by frequency quadrupling using one dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator to overcome chromatic dispersion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Zihang; Zhao, Shanghong; Yao, Zhoushi; Tan, Qinggui; Li, Yongjun; Chu, Xingchun; Shi, Lei; Zhang, Xi

    2012-06-01

    We propose a novel approach to generate quadrupling-frequency optical millimeter-wave using a dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM) in radio-over-fiber system. By properly adjusting the phase difference in the two modulation arms of MZM, the direct current (DC) bias, the modulation index and the gain of base-band signal, the quadrupling-frequency optical millimeter-wave with signal only carried by one second-order sideband is generated. As the signal is transmitted along the fiber, there is no time shift of the codes caused by chromatic dispersion. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the eye diagram keeps open and clear even when the quadrupling-frequency optical millimeter-wave are transmitted over 110 km and the power penalty is about 0.45 dB after fiber transmission distance of 60 km. Furthermore, due to another second-order sideband carrying no signals, a full duplex radio-over-fiber link based on wavelength reuse is also built to simplify the base station. The bidirectional 2.5 Gbit/s data is successfully transmitted over 40 km standard single mode fiber with less than 0.6 dB power penalty in the simulation.

  13. First quadruple-glycine bridging mono-lanthanide-substituted borotungstate hybrids.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jiancai; Yu, Jing; Han, Qing; Wen, Yue; Chen, Lijuan; Zhao, Junwei

    2016-10-18

    A class of novel organic-inorganic hybrid lanthanide (Ln)-substituted Keggin-type borotungstates K 4 Na 4 H 4 [Ln 2 (gly) 4 (α-BW 11 O 39 ) 2 ]·23H 2 O [Ln = Ce 3+ (1), Pr 3+ (2), Nd 3+ (3), Sm 3+ (4), Eu 3+ (5), Tm 3+ (6); gly = glycine] have been synthesized from the reaction of K 8 [BW 11 O 39 H]·13H 2 O, NaAc·6H 2 O and Ln(NO 3 ) 3 ·6H 2 O by employing gly ligands as structure-stabilizing agents in the conventional aqueous solution system and structurally characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric (TG) analyses, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The common prominent structural feature of isomorphic 1-6 is that all of them consist of two mono-Ln-substituted Keggin [Ln(α-BW 11 O 39 )] 6- fragments linked by four gly ligands, furnishing an intriguing dimeric assembly of the quadruple-gly-connective mono-Ln-substituted borotungstate, in which each carboxylic oxygen atom from gly ligands is bound to Ln 3+ cations in the μ 2 -O or μ 3 -O mode. To the best of our knowledge, 1-6 represent the first examples of inorganic-organic hybrid Ln-substituted borotungstates functionalized by quadruple amino acid bridges. The solid-state photoluminescence properties of 3-5 have been determined at ambient temperature and the photoluminescence emission spectra exhibit the characteristic emission bands derived from Ln 3+ centers. The thermostability of 1-6 has been studied and the thermal decomposition procedure of 3 has been comprehensively investigated with the assistance of variable-temperature PXRD patterns and variable-temperature IR spectra. Furthermore, magnetic susceptibility measurements of 1, 2 and 4 have been conducted.

  14. Integrated quadruple stress echocardiography.

    PubMed

    Picano, Eugenio; Morrone, Doralisa; Scali, Maria C; Huqi, Alda; Coviello, Katia; Ciampi, Quirino

    2018-04-11

    Stress Echocardiography (SE) is an established diagnostic technique. For 40 years, the cornerstone of the technique has been the detection of regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA), due to the underlying physiologically-relevant epicardial coronary artery stenosis. In the last decade, three new parameters (more objective than RWMA) have shown the potential to integrate and comple- ment RWMA: 1- B-lines, also known as ultrasound lung comets, as a marker of extra-vascular lung water, measured using lung ultrasound with the 4-site simplified scan symmetrically of the antero- lateral thorax on the third intercostal space, from mid-axillary to anterior axillary and mid- clavicular line; 2-left ventricular contractile reserve (LVCR), assessed as the peak stress/rest ratio of left ventricular force, also known as elastance (systolic arterial pressure by cuff sphygmomanome- ter/end-systolic volume from 2D echocardiography); 3- coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) on left anterior descending coronary artery, calculated as peak stress/rest ratio of diastolic peak flow velocity assessed using pulsed-wave Doppler. The 4 parameters (RWMA, B-lines, LVCR and CFVR) now converge conceptually, logistically, and methodologically in the Integrated Quadruple (IQ)-SE. IQ-SE optimizes the versatility of SE to include in a one-stop shop the core "ABCD" (Asynergy+B-lines+Contractile reserve+Doppler flowmetry) protocol. It allows a synoptic assess- ment of parameters mirroring the epicardial artery stenosis (RWMA), interstitial lung water (B- lines), myocardial function (LVCR) and small coronary vessels (CFVR). Each variable has a clear clinical correlate, different and complementary to all others: RWMA identify an ischemic vs non- ischemic heart; B-lines a wet vs dry lung; LVCR a strong vs weak heart; CFVR a warm vs cold heart. IQ-SE is highly feasible, with minimal increase in the imaging and analysis time, and obvi- ous diagnostic and prognostic impact also beyond coronary artery

  15. Epi-detected quadruple-modal nonlinear optical microscopy for label-free imaging of the tooth

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

    Wang, Zi; Zheng, Wei; Huang, Zhiwei, E-mail: biehzw@nus.edu.sg

    2015-01-19

    We present an epi-detected quadruple-modal nonlinear optical microscopic imaging technique (i.e., coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS), second-harmonic generation (SHG), third-harmonic generation (THG), and two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF)) based on a picosecond (ps) laser-pumped optical parametric oscillator system for label-free imaging of the tooth. We demonstrate that high contrast ps-CARS images covering both the fingerprint (500–1800 cm{sup −1}) and high-wavenumber (2500–3800 cm{sup −1}) regions can be acquired to uncover the distributions of mineral and organic biomaterials in the tooth, while high quality TPEF, SHG, and THG images of the tooth can also be acquired under ps laser excitation without damaging the samples. Themore » quadruple-modal nonlinear microscopic images (CARS/SHG/THG/TPEF) acquired provide better understanding of morphological structures and biochemical/biomolecular distributions in the dentin, enamel, and the dentin-enamel junction of the tooth without labeling, facilitating optical diagnosis and characterization of the tooth in dentistry.« less

  16. Democracy and environment as references for quadruple and quintuple helix innovation systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carayannis, Elias G.; Campbell, David F. J.; Orr, Barron J.

    2015-04-01

    arrangement). Civil society, culture-based public, quality of democracy and sustainable development, however, demonstrate convincingly, what the rationales and requirements are for conceptualizing democracy broader. This appears to be necessary for a sustainable advancement of sustainable development. In a democracy, political pluralism is necessary. Political pluralism in a democracy co-evolves with pluralism, diversity and heterogeneity of knowledge, knowledge production and innovation ("Democracy of Knowledge") (Carayannis and Campbell, 2009). This encourages and drives creativity that furthermore drives innovation (Carayannis and Campbell, 2010). The Quintuple Helix extends the Quadruple Helix by aspects of "natural environments of society and economy", "social ecology" and the "socio-ecological transition" (Carayannis, Barth and Campbell, 2012). The Quintuple Helix re-defines the ecology to a frontier for knowledge production and innovation. The proposition to-be-tested is that this environmental context of society can also be better addressed in a democracy than in non-democracies. If this is the case, then democracy and ecological progress are tied to each other, laying the groundwork for an approach to innovations systems that can increase resilience and enhance the potential for adaptation to environmental change.

  17. Broad-search algorithms for finding triple-and quadruple-satellite-aided captures at Jupiter from 2020 to 2080

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lynam, Alfred E.

    2015-04-01

    Multiple-satellite-aided capture is a -efficient technique for capturing a spacecraft into orbit at Jupiter. However, finding the times when the Galilean moons of Jupiter align such that three or four of them can be encountered in a single pass is difficult using standard astrodynamics algorithms such as Lambert's problem. In this paper, we present simple but powerful techniques that simplify the dynamics and geometry of the Galilean satellites so that many of these triple- and quadruple-satellite-aided capture sequences can be found quickly over an extended 60-year time period from 2020 to 2080. The techniques find many low-fidelity trajectories that could be used as initial guesses for future high-fidelity optimization. Results indicate the existence of approximately 3,100 unique triple-satellite-aided capture trajectories and 6 unique quadruple-satellite-aided capture trajectories during the 60-year time period. The entire search takes less than one minute of computational time.

  18. Third-line rescue therapy with bismuth-containing quadruple regimen after failure of two treatments (with clarithromycin and levofloxacin) for H. pylori infection.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, J P; Perez-Aisa, A; Rodrigo, L; Molina-Infante, J; Modolell, I; Bermejo, F; Castro-Fernández, M; Antón, R; Sacristán, B; Cosme, A; Barrio, J; Harb, Y; Gonzalez-Barcenas, M; Fernandez-Bermejo, M; Algaba, A; Marín, A C; McNicholl, A G

    2014-02-01

    Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), clarithromycin, and amoxicillin fails in >20 % of cases. A rescue therapy with PPI-amoxicillin-levofloxacin still fails in >20 % of patients. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a bismuth-containing quadruple regimen in patients with two consecutive eradication failures. Prospective multicenter study of patients in whom 1st treatment with PPI-clarithromycin-amoxicillin and 2nd with PPI-amoxicillin-levofloxacin had failed. A 3rd eradication regimen with a 7- to 14-day PPI (standard dose b.i.d.), bismuth subcitrate (120 mg q.i.d. or 240 mg b.i.d.), tetracycline (from 250 mg t.i.d. to 500 mg q.i.d.) and metronidazole (from 250 mg t.i.d. to 500 mg q.i.d.). Eradication was confirmed by (13)C-urea-breath-test 4-8 weeks after therapy. Compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. Adverse effects were evaluated by means of a questionnaire. Two hundred patients (mean age 50 years, 55 % females, 20 % peptic ulcer/80 % uninvestigated-functional dyspepsia) were initially included, and two were lost to follow-up. In all, 97 % of patients complied with the protocol. Per-protocol and intention-to-treat eradication rates were 67 % (95 % CI 60-74 %) and 65 % (58-72 %). Adverse effects were reported in 22 % of patients, the most common being nausea (12 %), abdominal pain (11 %), metallic taste (8.5 %), and diarrhea (8 %), none of them severe. A bismuth-containing quadruple regimen is an acceptable third-line strategy and a safe alternative after two previous H. pylori eradication failures with standard clarithromycin- and levofloxacin-containing triple therapies.

  19. Impact of Relational Coordination on Nurse Job Satisfaction, Work Engagement and Burnout: Achieving the Quadruple Aim.

    PubMed

    Havens, Donna Sullivan; Gittell, Jody Hoffer; Vasey, Joseph

    2018-03-01

    To explore how relational coordination, known to enhance quality and efficiency outcomes for patients and hospitals, impacts direct care nurse outcomes such as burnout, work engagement, and job satisfaction, addressing the "Quadruple Aim," to improve the experience of providing care. Hospitals are complex organizations in which multiple providers work interdependently, under conditions of uncertainty and time constraints, to deliver safe quality care despite differences in specialization, training, and status. Relational coordination-communicating and relating for the purpose of task integration-is known to improve quality, safety, and efficiency under these conditions, but less is known about its impact on the well-being of direct care providers themselves. Surveys measuring relational coordination among nurses and other types of providers as well as job-related outcomes in 5 acute care community hospitals were completed by direct care RNs. Relational coordination was significantly related to increased job satisfaction, increased work engagement, and reduced burnout. Relational coordination contributes to the well-being of direct care nurses, addressing the Quadruple Aim by improving the experience of providing care.

  20. Characterization and Modeling of Dual Stage Quadruple Pass Configurations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sellami, M.; Sellami, A.; Berrah, S.

    In this paper, the proposed system achieves a gain of 62dBs. It employs a dual-stage (DS) to enhance the amplification and a tunable band-pass filter (TBF) to filter out the backward amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) that degrades the signal amplification at the input end of the EDFA. The technique there by reduces the effect of ASE self-saturation [1]. This configuration is also useful in reducing the sensitivity of the EDFA to extra strenuous reflections caused by imperfections of the splices and other optical components [2]. as well as improving noise figure and gain. The experimental work will build up by using the active component Silica based EDF (Si-EDF) in Dual Stage Quadruple Pass (DSQP) configuration. By using Tunable Band pass Filter (TBF) in DSQP between the port 1 and port 2 of circulators (CRT2, CRT3) to filter out the unwanted ASE.

  1. Electrical quadruple hysteresis in Pd-doped vanadium pentoxide nanowires due to water adsorption

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Byung Hoon; Oh, Soon-Young; Yu, Han Young; Hong, Won G; Yun, Yong Ju; Kim, Yark Yeon; Kim, Hae Jin

    2010-01-01

    Humidity-dependent current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of Pd-doped vanadium pentoxide nanowires (Pd-VONs) were investigated. Electrical quadruple hysteresis (QH) was observed and attributed to the large amount of water molecules adsorbed on the nanowires. Using QH in Pd-VONs, the reaction of water with PdO was interpreted as the water molecules are desorbed and then dissociated with increasing bias voltage. Owing to the dissociated H+ and OH− ions, PdO is reduced and oxidized. As a result, water molecules recombine as the bias voltage is decreased. PMID:27877370

  2. Si/SiGe quadruple quantum dots with direct barrier gates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ward, Daniel; Gamble, John; Foote, Ryan; Savage, Donald; Lagally, Max; Coppersmith, Susan; Eriksson, Mark

    2014-03-01

    We have fabricated a quadruple quantum dot in a Si/SiGe heterostructure with the aim of demonstrating a two-qubit quantum gate. This device makes use of direct barrier gates, in which individual gates are placed directly over the quantum dots and tunnel barriers. This design enables rational control of both energies and tunnel rates in coupled quantum dots. In this talk we discuss the design, fabrication, and initial characterization of the device. This work was supported in part by ARO (W911NF-12-0607), NSF (DMR-1206915), and the United States Department of Defense. The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the official policies, either expressly or implied, of the US Government.

  3. First fluorescent sensor for fluoride based on 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone quadruple hydrogen-bonded AADD supramolecular assembly.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Yao-Peng; Zhao, Chun-Chang; Wu, Li-Zhu; Zhang, Li-Ping; Tung, Chen-Ho; Pan, Yuan-Jiang

    2006-03-03

    A simple, highly selective, neutral, fluorescent sensor for fluoride anions is reported. It is based on 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone quadruple hydrogen-bonded AADD supramolecular assembly, and its assembling and disassembling processes are also able to respond to external stimuli reversibly.

  4. Frustration relieved ferrimagnetism in novel A- and B-site-ordered quadruple perovskite.

    PubMed

    Chen, Wei-tin; Mizumaki, Masaichiro; Saito, Takashi; Shimakawa, Yuichi

    2013-07-28

    A novel A- and B-site-ordered quadruple perovskite CaCu3Fe2Sb2O12 was obtained and it shows ferrimagnetism below about 170 K. The B-site Fe spin sublattice adapts a tetrahedral framework in a cubic structure and the Fe(3+)-Fe(3+) antiferromagnetic interaction can result in a geometrical spin frustration as seen in a simple perovskite Ca2FeSbO6. With the introduction of Cu(2+) into the A' site, the antiferromagnetic spin frustration is relieved by the strong Cu(2+)-Fe(3+) interaction, and a ferrimagnetic ordering appears at a much higher temperature than the spin-glass transition temperature.

  5. Pattern optimizing verification of self-align quadruple patterning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamato, Masatoshi; Yamada, Kazuki; Oyama, Kenichi; Hara, Arisa; Natori, Sakurako; Yamauchi, Shouhei; Koike, Kyohei; Yaegashi, Hidetami

    2017-03-01

    Lithographic scaling continues to advance by extending the life of 193nm immersion technology, and spacer-type multi-patterning is undeniably the driving force behind this trend. Multi-patterning techniques such as self-aligned double patterning (SADP) and self-aligned quadruple patterning (SAQP) have come to be used in memory devices, and they have also been adopted in logic devices to create constituent patterns in the formation of 1D layout designs. Multi-patterning has consequently become an indispensible technology in the fabrication of all advanced devices. In general, items that must be managed when using multi-patterning include critical dimension uniformity (CDU), line edge roughness (LER), and line width roughness (LWR). Recently, moreover, there has been increasing focus on judging and managing pattern resolution performance from a more detailed perspective and on making a right/wrong judgment from the perspective of edge placement error (EPE). To begin with, pattern resolution performance in spacer-type multi-patterning is affected by the process accuracy of the core (mandrel) pattern. Improving the controllability of CD and LER of the mandrel is most important, and to reduce LER, an appropriate smoothing technique should be carefully selected. In addition, the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique is generally used to meet the need for high accuracy in forming the spacer film. Advances in scaling are accompanied by stricter requirements in the controllability of fine processing. In this paper, we first describe our efforts in improving controllability by selecting the most appropriate materials for the mandrel pattern and spacer film. Then, based on the materials selected, we present experimental results on a technique for improving etching selectivity.

  6. Pre-coding assisted generation of a frequency quadrupled optical vector D-band millimeter wave with one Mach-Zehnder modulator.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Wen; Li, Xinying; Yu, Jianjun

    2017-10-30

    We propose QPSK millimeter-wave (mm-wave) vector signal generation for D-band based on balanced precoding-assisted photonic frequency quadrupling technology employing a single intensity modulator without an optical filter. The intensity MZM is driven by a balanced pre-coding 37-GHz QPSK RF signal. The modulated optical subcarriers are directly sent into the single ended photodiode to generate 148-GHz QPSK vector signal. We experimentally demonstrate 1-Gbaud 148-GHz QPSK mm-wave vector signal generation, and investigate the bit-error-rate (BER) performance of the vector signals at 148-GHz. The experimental results show that the BER value can be achieved as low as 1.448 × 10 -3 when the optical power into photodiode is 8.8dBm. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time to realize the frequency-quadrupling vector mm-wave signal generation at D-band based on only one MZM without an optical filter.

  7. The influence of Coulomb correlations on nonequilibrium quantum transport in quadruple quantum-dot structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kagan, M. Yu.; Aksenov, S. V.

    2018-04-01

    The description of quantum transport in a quadruple quantum-dot structure (QQD) is proposed taking into account the Coulomb correlations and nonzero bias voltages. To achieve this goal the combination of nonequilibrium Green's functions and equation-of-motion technique is used. It is shown that the anisotropy of kinetic processes in the QQD leads to negative differential conductance (NDC). The reason of the effect is an interplay of the Fano resonances which are induced by the interdot Coulomb correlations. Different ways to increase the peak-to-valley ratio related to the observed NDC are discussed.

  8. 14 day sequential therapy versus 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy containing high-dose esomeprazole in the first-line and second-line treatment of Helicobacter pylori: a multicentre, non-inferiority, randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Liou, Jyh-Ming; Chen, Chieh-Chang; Fang, Yu-Jen; Chen, Po-Yueh; Chang, Chi-Yang; Chou, Chu-Kuang; Chen, Mei-Jyh; Tseng, Cheng-Hao; Lee, Ji-Yuh; Yang, Tsung-Hua; Chiu, Min-Chin; Yu, Jian-Jyun; Kuo, Chia-Chi; Luo, Jiing-Chyuan; Hsu, Wen-Feng; Hu, Wen-Hao; Tsai, Min-Horn; Lin, Jaw-Town; Shun, Chia-Tung; Twu, Gary; Lee, Yi-Chia; Bair, Ming-Jong; Wu, Ming-Shiang

    2018-05-29

    Whether extending the treatment length and the use of high-dose esomeprazole may optimize the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication remains unknown. To compare the efficacy and tolerability of optimized 14 day sequential therapy and 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy containing high-dose esomeprazole in first-line therapy. We recruited 620 adult patients (≥20 years of age) with H. pylori infection naive to treatment in this multicentre, open-label, randomized trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 14 day sequential therapy or 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy, both containing esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily. Those who failed after 14 day sequential therapy received rescue therapy with 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy and vice versa. Our primary outcome was the eradication rate in the first-line therapy. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03156855. The eradication rates of 14 day sequential therapy and 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy were 91.3% (283 of 310, 95% CI 87.4%-94.1%) and 91.6% (284 of 310, 95% CI 87.8%-94.3%) in the ITT analysis, respectively (difference -0.3%, 95% CI -4.7% to 4.4%, P = 0.886). However, the frequencies of adverse effects were significantly higher in patients treated with 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy than those treated with 14 day sequential therapy (74.4% versus 36.7% P < 0.0001). The eradication rate of 14 day sequential therapy in strains with and without 23S ribosomal RNA mutation was 80% (24 of 30) and 99% (193 of 195), respectively (P < 0.0001). Optimized 14 day sequential therapy was non-inferior to, but better tolerated than 10 day bismuth quadruple therapy and both may be used in first-line treatment in populations with low to intermediate clarithromycin resistance.

  9. A Test of Pre-Main-Sequence Evolutionary Models across the Stellar/Substellar Boundary Based on Spectra of the Young Quadruple GG Tauri

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    White, Russel J.; Ghez, A. M.; Reid, I. Neill; Schultz, Greg

    1999-08-01

    We present spatially separated optical spectra of the components of the young hierarchical quadruple GG Tau. Spectra of GG Tau Aa and Ab (separation 0.25"~35 AU) were obtained with the Faint Object Spectrograph on board the Hubble Space Telescope. Spectra of GG Tau Ba and Bb (separation 1.48"~207 AU) were obtained with both the HIRES and the LRIS spectrographs on the W. M. Keck telescopes. The components of this minicluster, which span a wide range in spectral type (K7-M7), are used to test both evolutionary models and the temperature scale for very young, low-mass stars under the assumption of coeval formation. Of the evolutionary models tested, those of Baraffe et al. yield the most consistent ages when combined with a temperature scale intermediate between that of dwarfs and giants. The version of the Baraffe et al. models computed with a mixing length nearly twice the pressure scale height is of particular interest, as it predicts masses for GG Tau Aa and Ab that are in agreement with their dynamical mass estimate. Using this evolutionary model and a coeval (at 1.5 Myr) temperature scale, we find that the coldest component of the GG Tau system, GG Tau Bb, is substellar with a mass of 0.044+/-0.006 Msolar. This brown dwarf companion is especially intriguing as it shows signatures of accretion, although this accretion is not likely to alter its mass significantly. GG Tau Bb is currently the lowest mass, spectroscopically confirmed companion to a T Tauri star, and is one of the coldest, lowest mass T Tauri objects in the Taurus-Auriga star-forming region. Based partly on observations with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, obtained at the Space Telescope Science Institute, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc., under NASA contract NAS5-26555.

  10. First-line eradication rates comparing two shortened non-bismuth quadruple regimens against Helicobacter pylori: an open-label, randomized, multicentre clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Cuadrado-Lavín, Antonio; Salcines-Caviedes, J Ramón; Diaz-Perez, Ainhoa; Carrascosa, Miguel F; Ochagavía, María; Fernandez-Forcelledo, José Luis; Cobo, Marta; Fernández-Gil, Pedro; Ayestarán, Blanca; Sánchez, Blanca; Campo, Cristina; Llorca, Javier; Lorenzo, Silvia; Illaro, Aitziber

    2015-08-01

    Helicobacter pylori eradication remains a challenge. Non-bismuth-based quadruple regimens (NBQR) have shown high eradication rates (ER) elsewhere that need to be locally confirmed. The objective of this study was to compare the first-line ER of a hybrid therapy (20 mg of omeprazole twice daily and 1 g of amoxicillin twice daily for 10 days, adding 500 mg of clarithromycin twice daily and 500 mg of metronidazole every 8 h for the last 5 days; OA-OACM) with that of a 10 day concomitant regimen consisting of taking all four drugs twice daily every day (including 500 mg of metronidazole every 12 h; OACM). A 10 day arm with standard triple therapy (OAC; 20 mg of omeprazole/12 h, 1 g of amoxicillin/12 h and 500 mg of clarithromycin/12 h) was included. Three hundred consecutive patients were randomized (1: 2: 2) into one of the three following regimens: (i) OAC (60); (ii) OA-OACM (120); and (iii) OACM (120). Eradication was generally confirmed by a [(13)C]urea breath test at least 4 weeks after the end of treatment. Adverse events and compliance were assessed. EudraCT: 2011-006258-99. ITT cure rates were: OAC, 70.0% (42/60) (95% CI: 58.3-81.7); OA-OACM, 90.8% (109/120) (95% CI: 85.6-96.0); and OACM, 90.0% (107/119) (95% CI: 84.6-95.4). PP rates were: OAC, 72.4% (42/58) (95% CI: 60.8-84.1); OA-OACM, 93.9% (108/115) (95% CI: 89.5-98.3); and OACM, 90.3% (102/113) (95% CI: 84.8-95.8). Both NBQR significantly improved ER compared with OAC (P < 0.01), but no differences were seen between them. Mean compliance was elevated [98.0% (SD = 9.8)] with no differences between groups. There were more adverse events in the quadruple arms (OACM, 65.8%; OA-OACM, 68.6%; OAC, 46.6%; P < 0.05), but no significant differences between groups in terms of severity were seen. Hybrid and concomitant regimens show good ER against H. pylori infection with an acceptable safety profile. They clearly displace OAC as first-line regimen in our area. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford

  11. Enhanced Electronic Communication and Electrochemical Sensitivity Benefiting from the Cooperation of Quadruple Hydrogen Bonding and π-π Interactions in Graphene/Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Hybrids.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qiguan; Wang, Sumin; Shang, Jiayin; Qiu, Shenbao; Zhang, Wenzhi; Wu, Xinming; Li, Jinhua; Chen, Weixing; Wang, Xinhai

    2017-02-22

    By designing a molecule labeled as UPPY with both ureidopyrimidinone (UP) and pyrene (PY) units, the supramolecular self-assembly of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was driven by the UP quadruple hydrogen-bonding and PY-based π-π interactions to form a novel hybrid of rGO-UPPY-MWNT in which the morphology of rGO-wrapped MWNT was found. Bridged by the two kinds of noncovalent bonding, enhanced electronic communication occurred in rGO-UPPY-MWNT. Also, under the cooperation of UP quadruple hydrogen-bonding and PY-based π-π interactions, higher electrical conductivity and better charge transfer were observed for rGO-UPPY-MWNT, compared with the rGO-MWNT composite without such noncovalent bonds, and that with just single PY-based π-π interaction (rGO-PY-MWNT) or UP quadruple hydrogen bond (rGO-UP-MWNT). Specifically, the electrical conductivity of rGO-PY-MWNT hybrids was increased approximately sevenfold, and the interfacial charge transfer resistance was nearly decreased by 1 order of magnitude compared with rGO-MWNT, rGO-UP-MWNT, and rGO-PY-MWNT. Resulting from its excellent electrical conductivity and charge transfer properties, the rGO-UPPY-MWNT modified electrode exhibited enhanced electrochemical activity toward dopamine with detection limit as low as 20 nM.

  12. Modeling the inhibition of quadruple mutant Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase by pyrimethamine derivatives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fogel, Gary B.; Cheung, Mars; Pittman, Eric; Hecht, David

    2008-01-01

    Modeling studies were performed on known inhibitors of the quadruple mutant Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). GOLD was used to dock 32 pyrimethamine derivatives into the active site of DHFR obtained from the x-ray crystal structure 1J3K.pdb. Several scoring functions were evaluated and the Molegro Protein-Ligand Interaction Score was determined to have one of the best correlation to experimental p K i . In conjunction with Protein-Ligand Interaction scores, predicted binding modes and key protein-ligand interactions were evaluated and analyzed in order to develop criteria for selecting compounds having a greater chance of activity versus resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. This methodology will be used in future studies for selection of compounds for focused screening libraries.

  13. Unique quadruple immunofluorescence assay demonstrates mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction in osteoblasts of aged and PolgA(-/-) mice.

    PubMed

    Dobson, Philip F; Rocha, Mariana C; Grady, John P; Chrysostomou, Alexia; Hipps, Daniel; Watson, Sharon; Greaves, Laura C; Deehan, David J; Turnbull, Doug M

    2016-08-24

    Fragility fractures caused by osteoporosis affect millions of people worldwide every year with significant levels of associated morbidity, mortality and costs to the healthcare economy. The pathogenesis of declining bone mineral density is poorly understood but it is inherently related to increasing age. Growing evidence in recent years, especially that provided by mouse models, suggest that accumulating somatic mitochondrial DNA mutations may cause the phenotypic changes associated with the ageing process including osteoporosis. Methods to study mitochondrial abnormalities in individual osteoblasts, osteoclasts and osteocytes are limited and impair our ability to assess the changes seen with age and in animal models of ageing. To enable the assessment of mitochondrial protein levels, we have developed a quadruple immunofluorescence method to accurately quantify the presence of mitochondrial respiratory chain components within individual bone cells. We have applied this technique to a well-established mouse model of ageing and osteoporosis and show respiratory chain deficiency.

  14. Influence of vitamin C and E supplementation on the eradication rates of triple and quadruple eradication regimens for Helicobacter pylori infection.

    PubMed

    Demirci, Hakan; Uygun İlikhan, Sevil; Öztürk, Kadir; Üstündağ, Yücel; Kurt, Ömer; Bilici, Muammer; Köktürk, Furuzan; Uygun, Ahmet

    2015-11-01

    In our study, we aimed to assess the effect of vitamin E and C supplementation to triple and quadruple Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens. Four hundred patients with H. pylori infection were classified into four groups. Patients in group A (n=100) received amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and lansoprazole for 2 weeks. In group B, patients (n=100) received vitamins C and E for a month, in addition to amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and lansoprazole for 2 weeks. Patients in group C (n=100) received amoxicillin, clarithromycin, lansoprazole, and bismuth subcitrate for 2 weeks, whereas those in group D (n=100) received vitamins C and E for a month, in addition to amoxicillin, clarithromycin, lansoprazole, and bismuth subcitrate for 2 weeks. H. pylori eradication was assessed with the C14 urea breath test 2 months after the end of the therapy. The eradication rate was assessed using per-protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses. Three hundred forty-eight patients finished the study. The eradication of H. pylori was achieved in 63 of 84 patients (75%) by PP and 63 of 100 (63%) by ITT analysis in group A, 60 of 84 (71.4%) by PP and 60 of 100 (60%) by ITT analysis in group B, 72 of 89 (80.9 %) by PP and 72 of 100 (72%) by ITT analysis in group C, and 76 of 91 (83.5%) by PP and 76 of 100 (76%) by ITT analysis in group D. There was no remarkable change between groups A and B (p>0.05). Similar results were also found between groups D and C (p>0.05). This study revealed that supplementing vitamins C and E to either the triple or quadruple therapies did not provide an additional advantage for achieving significantly higher eradication rates for H. pylori.

  15. Three unsuccessful treatments of Helicobacter pylori infection by a highly virulent strain with quadruple antibiotic resistance.

    PubMed

    Boyanova, Lyudmila; Evstatiev, Ivailo; Yordanov, Daniel; Markovska, Rumyana; Mitov, Ivan

    2016-07-01

    We report a case of an adult patient undergoing three unsuccessful Helicobacter pylori treatments, including proton pump inhibitor (PPI), bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline in 2012, PPI, amoxicillin and clarithromycin in 2013, and PPI, amoxicillin and rifampin in 2014. Following the first treatment, the isolate was metronidazole and ciprofloxacin/levofloxacin resistant. After the second treatment, the isolate was resistant to metronidazole, ciprofloxacin/levofloxacin and rifampin, developing secondary clarithromycin resistance by A2143G mutation and was susceptible only to tetracycline. After the third treatment, the patient still remained H. pylori positive. Patient's strain was highly virulent (cagA (+) , cagE (+) and vacA s1a/m1/i1). The evolution of the patient's disease was from gastroesophageal reflux disease in 2012 to two duodenal ulcers in 2015. Briefly, the infecting strain showed quadruple antibiotic resistance and a transient amoxicillin resistance. Triple clarithromycin-based treatment induced secondary clarithromycin resistance by A2143G mutation, while rifampin resistance caused the third treatment failure. Several options for the next treatment regimens are discussed.

  16. Generation of CMAHKO/GTKO/shTNFRI-Fc/HO-1 quadruple gene modified pigs.

    PubMed

    Kim, Geon A; Lee, Eun Mi; Jin, Jun-Xue; Lee, Sanghoon; Taweechaipaisankul, Anukul; Hwang, Jong Ik; Alam, Zahid; Ahn, Curie; Lee, Byeong Chun

    2017-08-01

    As an alternative source of organs for transplantation into humans, attention has been directed to pigs due to their similarities in biological features and organ size. However, severe immune rejection has prevented successful xenotransplantation using pig organs and tissues. To overcome immune rejection, recently developed genetic engineering systems such as TALEN coupled with somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to make embryos could be used to produce pigs compatible with xenotransplantation. We used the TALEN system to target the non-Gal antigen cytidine monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) gene in pigs that is naturally deleted in humans. Gal-deleted cells expressing both soluble human tumor necrosis factor receptor I IgG 1 -Fc (shTNFRI-Fc) and human hemagglutinin -tagged-human heme oxygenase-1 (hHO-1) were transfected with a TALEN target for CMAH. Cells lacking CMAH were negatively selected using N-glyconeuraminic acid (Neu5Gc)/magnetic beads and the level of Neu5Gc expression of isolated cells were analyzed by FACS and DNA sequencing. Cloned embryos using 3 different genetically modified cell clones were respectively transferred into 3 recipients, with 55.6% (5/9) becoming pregnant and three cloned pigs were produced. Successful genetic disruption of the CMAH gene was confirmed by sequencing, showing lack of expression of CMAH in tail-derived fibroblasts of the cloned piglets. Besides decreased expression of Neu5Gc in piglets produced by SCNT, antibody-mediated complement-dependent cytotoxicity assays and natural antibody binding for examining immuno-reactivity of the quadruple gene modified pigs derived from endothelial cells and fibroblasts were reduced significantly compared to those of wild type animals. We conclude that by combining the TALEN system and transgenic cells, targeting of multiple genes could be useful for generating organs for xenotransplantation. We produced miniature pigs with quadruple modified genes CMAHKO

  17. Nanosecond-timescale spin transfer using individual electrons in a quadruple-quantum-dot device

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

    Baart, T. A.; Jovanovic, N.; Vandersypen, L. M. K.

    2016-07-25

    The ability to coherently transport electron-spin states between different sites of gate-defined semiconductor quantum dots is an essential ingredient for a quantum-dot-based quantum computer. Previous shuttles using electrostatic gating were too slow to move an electron within the spin dephasing time across an array. Here, we report a nanosecond-timescale spin transfer of individual electrons across a quadruple-quantum-dot device. Utilizing enhanced relaxation rates at a so-called hot spot, we can upper bound the shuttle time to at most 150 ns. While actual shuttle times are likely shorter, 150 ns is already fast enough to preserve spin coherence in, e.g., silicon based quantum dots.more » This work therefore realizes an important prerequisite for coherent spin transfer in quantum dot arrays.« less

  18. Near-infrared Spectroscopy of 2M0441+2301 AabBab: A Quadruple System Spanning the Stellar to Planetary Mass Regimes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bowler, Brendan P.; Hillenbrand, Lynne A.

    2015-10-01

    We present Keck/NIRC2 and OSIRIS near-infrared imaging and spectroscopy of 2M0441+2301 AabBab, a young (1-3 Myr) hierarchical quadruple system comprising a low-mass star, two brown dwarfs, and a planetary-mass companion in Taurus. All four components show spectroscopic signs of low surface gravity, and both 2M0441+2301 Aa and Ab possess Paβ emission indicating they each harbor accretion subdisks. Astrometry spanning 2008-2014 reveals orbital motion in both the Aab (0.″23 separation) and Bab (0.″095 separation) pairs, although the implied orbital periods of >300 years mean dynamical masses will not be possible in the near future. The faintest component (2M0441+2301 Bb) has an angular H-band shape, strong molecular absorption (VO, CO, H2O, and FeH), and shallow alkali lines, confirming its young age, late spectral type (L1 ± 1), and low temperature (≈1800 K). With individual masses of {200}-50+100 MJup, 35 ± 5 MJup, 19 ± 3 MJup, and 9.8 ± 1.8 MJup, 2M0441+2301 AabBab is the lowest-mass quadruple system known. Its hierarchical orbital architecture and mass ratios imply that it formed from the collapse and fragmentation of a molecular cloud core, demonstrating that planetary-mass companions can originate from a stellar-like pathway analogous to higher-mass quadruple star systems as first speculated by Todorov et al. More generally, cloud fragmentation may be an important formation pathway for the massive exoplanets that are now regularly being imaged on wide orbits. The data presented herein were obtained at the W. M. Keck Observatory, which is operated as a scientific partnership among the California Institute of Technology, the University of California and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The Observatory was made possible by the generous financial support of the W. M. Keck Foundation.

  19. SELDI-TOF MS of quadruplicate urine and serum samples to evaluate changes related to storage conditions.

    PubMed

    Traum, Avram Z; Wells, Meghan P; Aivado, Manuel; Libermann, Towia A; Ramoni, Marco F; Schachter, Asher D

    2006-03-01

    Proteomic profiling with SELDI-TOF MS has facilitated the discovery of disease-specific protein profiles. However, multicenter studies are often hindered by the logistics required for prompt deep-freezing of samples in liquid nitrogen or dry ice within the clinic setting prior to shipping. We report high concordance between MS profiles within sets of quadruplicate split urine and serum samples deep-frozen at 0, 2, 6, and 24 h after sample collection. Gage R&R results confirm that deep-freezing times are not a statistically significant source of SELDI-TOF MS variability for either blood or urine.

  20. Solar irradiance reduction to counteract radiative forcing from a quadrupling of CO2: climate responses simulated by four earth system models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmidt, H.; Alterskjær, K.; Karam, D. Bou; Boucher, O.; Jones, A.; Kristjánsson, J. E.; Niemeier, U.; Schulz, M.; Aaheim, A.; Benduhn, F.; Lawrence, M.; Timmreck, C.

    2012-06-01

    In this study we compare the response of four state-of-the-art Earth system models to climate engineering under scenario G1 of two model intercomparison projects: GeoMIP (Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project) and IMPLICC (EU project "Implications and risks of engineering solar radiation to limit climate change"). In G1, the radiative forcing from an instantaneous quadrupling of the CO2 concentration, starting from the preindustrial level, is balanced by a reduction of the solar constant. Model responses to the two counteracting forcings in G1 are compared to the preindustrial climate in terms of global means and regional patterns and their robustness. While the global mean surface air temperature in G1 remains almost unchanged compared to the control simulation, the meridional temperature gradient is reduced in all models. Another robust response is the global reduction of precipitation with strong effects in particular over North and South America and northern Eurasia. In comparison to the climate response to a quadrupling of CO2 alone, the temperature responses are small in experiment G1. Precipitation responses are, however, in many regions of comparable magnitude but globally of opposite sign.

  1. Reduced African Easterly Wave Activity with Quadrupled CO 2 in the Superparameterized CESM

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

    Hannah, Walter M.; Aiyyer, Anantha

    African easterly wave (AEW) activity is examined in quadrupled CO 2 experiments with the superparameterized CESM (SP-CESM). The variance of 2–10-day filtered precipitation increases with warming over the West African monsoon region, suggesting increased AEW activity. The perturbation enstrophy budget is used to investigate the dynamic signature of AEW activity. The northern wave track becomes more active associated with enhanced baroclinicity, consistent with previous studies. The southern track exhibits a surprising reduction of wave activity associated with less frequent occurrence of weak waves and a slight increase in the occurrence of strong waves. These changes are connected to changes inmore » the profile of vortex stretching and tilting that can be understood as interconnected consequences of increased static stability from the lapse rate response, weak temperature gradient balance, and the fixed anvil temperature hypothesis.« less

  2. Reduced African Easterly Wave Activity with Quadrupled CO 2 in the Superparameterized CESM

    DOE PAGES

    Hannah, Walter M.; Aiyyer, Anantha

    2017-10-01

    African easterly wave (AEW) activity is examined in quadrupled CO 2 experiments with the superparameterized CESM (SP-CESM). The variance of 2–10-day filtered precipitation increases with warming over the West African monsoon region, suggesting increased AEW activity. The perturbation enstrophy budget is used to investigate the dynamic signature of AEW activity. The northern wave track becomes more active associated with enhanced baroclinicity, consistent with previous studies. The southern track exhibits a surprising reduction of wave activity associated with less frequent occurrence of weak waves and a slight increase in the occurrence of strong waves. These changes are connected to changes inmore » the profile of vortex stretching and tilting that can be understood as interconnected consequences of increased static stability from the lapse rate response, weak temperature gradient balance, and the fixed anvil temperature hypothesis.« less

  3. Force spectroscopy of quadruple H-bonded dimers by AFM: dynamic bond rupture and molecular time-temperature superposition.

    PubMed

    Zou, Shan; Schönherr, Holger; Vancso, G Julius

    2005-08-17

    We report on the application of the time-temperature superposition principle to supramolecular bond-rupture forces on the single-molecule level. The construction of force-loading rate master curves using atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) experiments carried out in situ at different temperatures allows one to extend the limited range of the experimentally accessible loading rates and hence to cross from thermodynamic nonequilibrium to quasi-equilibrium states. The approach is demonstrated for quadruple H-bonded ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone (UPy) moieties studied by variable-temperature SMFS in organic media. The unbinding forces of single quadruple H-bonding (UPy)2 complexes, which were identified based on a polymeric spacer strategy, were found to depend on the loading rate in the range of 5 nN/s to 500 nN/s at 301 K in hexadecane. By contrast, these rupture forces were independent of the loading rate from 5 to 200 nN/s at 330 K. These results indicate that the unbinding behavior of individual supramolecular complexes can be directly probed under both thermodynamic nonequilibrium and quasi-equilibrium conditions. On the basis of the time-temperature superposition principle, a master curve was constructed for a reference temperature of 301 K, and the crossover force (from loading-rate independent to -dependent regimes) was determined as approximately 145 pN (at a loading rate of approximately 5.6 nN/s). This approach significantly broadens the accessible loading-rate range and hence provides access to fine details of potential energy landscape of supramolecular complexes based on SMFS experiments.

  4. QuadCam - A Quadruple Polarimetric Camera for Space Situational Awareness

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Skuljan, J.

    A specialised quadruple polarimetric camera for space situational awareness, QuadCam, has been built at the Defence Technology Agency (DTA), New Zealand, as part of collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), United Kingdom. The design was based on a similar system originally developed at Dstl, with some significant modifications for improved performance. The system is made up of four identical CCD cameras looking in the same direction, but in a different plane of polarisation at 0, 45, 90 and 135 degrees with respect to the reference plane. A standard set of Stokes parameters can be derived from the four images in order to describe the state of polarisation of an object captured in the field of view. The modified design of the DTA QuadCam makes use of four small Raspberry Pi computers, so that each camera is controlled by its own computer in order to speed up the readout process and ensure that the four individual frames are taken simultaneously (to within 100-200 microseconds). In addition, a new firmware was requested from the camera manufacturer so that an output signal is generated to indicate the state of the camera shutter. A specialised GPS unit (also developed at DTA) is then used to monitor the shutter signals from the four cameras and record the actual time of exposure to an accuracy of about 100 microseconds. This makes the system well suited for the observation of fast-moving objects in the low Earth orbit (LEO). The QuadCam is currently mounted on a Paramount MEII robotic telescope mount at the newly built DTA space situational awareness observatory located on Whangaparaoa Peninsula near Auckland, New Zealand. The system will be used for tracking satellites in low Earth orbit and geostationary belt as well. The performance of the camera has been evaluated and a series of test images have been collected in order to derive the polarimetric signatures for selected satellites.

  5. BD -22 5866: A Low-Mass, Quadruple-lined Spectroscopic and Eclipsing Binary

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shkolnik, Evgenya; Liu, Michael C.; Reid, I. Neill; Hebb, Leslie; Cameron, Andrew C.; Torres, Carlos A.; Wilson, David M.

    2008-08-01

    We report our discovery of an extremely rare, low-mass, quadruple-lined spectroscopic binary BD -22 5866 (=NLTT 53279, integrated spectral type = M0 V), found during an ongoing search for the youngest M dwarfs in the solar neighborhood. From the cross-correlation function, we are able to measure relative flux levels, estimate the spectral types of the components, and set upper limits on the orbital periods and separations. The resulting system is hierarchical, composed of a K7 + K7 binary and an M1 + M2 binary with semimajor axes of aAsin iA <= 0.06 and aBsin iB <= 0.30 AU. A subsequent search of the SuperWASP photometric database revealed that the K7 + K7 binary is eclipsing with a period of 2.21 days and at an inclination angle of 85°. Within uncertainties of 5%, the masses and radii of both components appear to be equal (0.59 M⊙, 0.61 R⊙). These two tightly orbiting stars (a = 0.035 AU) are in synchronous rotation, causing the observed excess Ca II, Hα, X-ray, and UV emission. The fact that the system was unresolved with published adaptive optics imaging, limits the projected physical separation of the two binaries at the time of the observation to dABlesssim 4.1 AU at the photometric distance of 51 pc. The maximum observed radial velocity difference between the A and B binaries limits the orbit to aABsin iAB <= 6.1 AU. As this tight configuration is difficult to reproduce with current formation models of multiple systems, we speculate that an early dynamical process reduced the size of the system, such as the interaction of the two binaries with a circumquadruple disk. Intensive photometric, spectroscopic, and interferometric monitoring, as well as a parallax measurement of this rare quadruple system, is certainly warranted. Based on observations collected at the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). The Keck Observatory is operated as a scientific partnership between the California Institute of Technology, the University

  6. On the rates of type Ia supernovae originating from white dwarf collisions in quadruple star systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hamers, Adrian S.

    2018-04-01

    We consider the evolution of stellar hierarchical quadruple systems in the 2+2 (two binaries orbiting each other's barycentre) and 3+1 (triple orbited by a fourth star) configurations. In our simulations, we take into account the effects of secular dynamical evolution, stellar evolution, tidal evolution and encounters with passing stars. We focus on type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) driven by collisions of carbon-oxygen (CO) white dwarfs (WDs). Such collisions can arise from several channels: (1) collisions due to extremely high eccentricities induced by secular evolution, (2) collisions following a dynamical instability of the system, and (3) collisions driven by semisecular evolution. The systems considered here have initially wide inner orbits, with initial semilatus recti larger than 12 {au}, implying no interaction if the orbits were isolated. However, taking into account dynamical evolution, we find that ≈0.4 (≈0.6) of 2+2 (3+1) systems interact. In particular, Roche Lobe overflow can be triggered possibly in highly eccentric orbits, dynamical instability can ensue due to mass-loss-driven orbital expansion or secular evolution, or a semisecular regime can be entered. We compute the delay-time distributions (DTDs) of collision-induced SNe Ia, and find that they are flatter compared to the observed DTD. Moreover, our combined SNe Ia rates are (3.7± 0.7) × 10^{-6} M_⊙^{-1} and (1.3± 0.2) × 10^{-6} M_⊙^{-1} for 2+2 and 3+1 systems, respectively, three orders of magnitude lower compared to the observed rate, of order 10^{-3} M_⊙^{-1}. The low rates can be ascribed to interactions before the stars evolve to CO WDs. However, our results are lower limits given that we considered a subset of quadruple systems.

  7. On the rates of Type Ia supernovae originating from white dwarf collisions in quadruple star systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hamers, Adrian S.

    2018-07-01

    We consider the evolution of stellar hierarchical quadruple systems in the 2+2 (two binaries orbiting each other's barycentre) and 3+1 (triple orbited by a fourth star) configurations. In our simulations, we take into account the effects of secular dynamical evolution, stellar evolution, tidal evolution, and encounters with passing stars. We focus on Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) driven by collisions of carbon-oxygen (CO) white dwarfs (WDs). Such collisions can arise from several channels: (1) collisions due to extremely high eccentricities induced by secular evolution, (2) collisions following a dynamical instability of the system, and (3) collisions driven by semisecular evolution. The systems considered here have initially wide inner orbits, with initial semilatus recti larger than 12 au, implying no interaction if the orbits were isolated. However, taking into account dynamical evolution, we find that ≈0.4 (≈0.6) of 2+2 (3+1) systems interact. In particular, Roche lobe overflow can be triggered possibly in highly eccentric orbits, dynamical instability can ensue due to mass-loss-driven orbital expansion or secular evolution, or a semisecular regime can be entered. We compute the delay-time distributions (DTDs) of collision-induced SNe Ia, and find that they are flatter compared to the observed DTD. Moreover, our combined SNe Ia rates are (3.7± 0.7) × 10^{-6} M_{⊙}^{-1} and (1.3± 0.2) × 10^{-6} M_{⊙}^{-1} for 2+2 and 3+1 systems, respectively, three orders of magnitude lower compared to the observed rate, of the order of 10^{-3} M_{⊙}^{-1}. The low rates can be ascribed to interactions before the stars evolve to CO WDs. However, our results are lower limits given that we considered a subset of quadruple systems.

  8. Triple/quadruple patterning layout decomposition via linear programming and iterative rounding

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Yibo; Xu, Xiaoqing; Yu, Bei; Baldick, Ross; Pan, David Z.

    2017-04-01

    As the feature size of the semiconductor technology scales down to 10 nm and beyond, multiple patterning lithography (MPL) has become one of the most practical candidates for lithography, along with other emerging technologies, such as extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL), e-beam lithography (EBL), and directed self-assembly. Due to the delay of EUVL and EBL, triple and even quadruple patterning is considered to be used for lower metal and contact layers with tight pitches. In the process of MPL, layout decomposition is the key design stage, where a layout is split into various parts and each part is manufactured through a separate mask. For metal layers, stitching may be allowed to resolve conflicts, whereas it is forbidden for contact and via layers. We focus on the application of layout decomposition where stitching is not allowed, such as for contact and via layers. We propose a linear programming (LP) and iterative rounding solving technique to reduce the number of nonintegers in the LP relaxation problem. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithms can provide high quality decomposition solutions efficiently while introducing as few conflicts as possible.

  9. Search for Neutrinoless Quadruple-β Decay of Nd 150 with the NEMO-3 Detector

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arnold, R.; Augier, C.; Barabash, A. S.; Basharina-Freshville, A.; Blondel, S.; Blot, S.; Bongrand, M.; Boursette, D.; Brudanin, V.; Busto, J.; Caffrey, A. J.; Calvez, S.; Cascella, M.; Cerna, C.; Cesar, J. P.; Chapon, A.; Chauveau, E.; Chopra, A.; Dawson, L.; Duchesneau, D.; Durand, D.; Egorov, V.; Eurin, G.; Evans, J. J.; Fajt, L.; Filosofov, D.; Flack, R.; Garrido, X.; Gómez, H.; Guillon, B.; Guzowski, P.; Hodák, R.; Huber, A.; Hubert, P.; Hugon, C.; Jullian, S.; Klimenko, A.; Kochetov, O.; Konovalov, S. I.; Kovalenko, V.; Lalanne, D.; Lang, K.; Lemière, Y.; Le Noblet, T.; Liptak, Z.; Liu, X. R.; Loaiza, P.; Lutter, G.; Macko, M.; Macolino, C.; Mamedov, F.; Marquet, C.; Mauger, F.; Morgan, B.; Mott, J.; Nemchenok, I.; Nomachi, M.; Nova, F.; Nowacki, F.; Ohsumi, H.; Patrick, C.; Pahlka, R. B.; Perrot, F.; Piquemal, F.; Povinec, P.; Přidal, P.; Ramachers, Y. A.; Remoto, A.; Reyss, J. L.; Riddle, C. L.; Rukhadze, E.; Saakyan, R.; Salazar, R.; Sarazin, X.; Shitov, Yu.; Simard, L.; Šimkovic, F.; Smetana, A.; Smolek, K.; Smolnikov, A.; Söldner-Rembold, S.; Soulé, B.; Štefánik, D.; Štekl, I.; Suhonen, J.; Sutton, C. S.; Szklarz, G.; Thomas, J.; Timkin, V.; Torre, S.; Tretyak, Vl. I.; Tretyak, V. I.; Umatov, V. I.; Vanushin, I.; Vilela, C.; Vorobel, V.; Waters, D.; Xie, F.; Žukauskas, A.; NEMO-3 Collaboration

    2017-07-01

    We report the results of a first experimental search for lepton number violation by four units in the neutrinoless quadruple-β decay of Nd 150 using a total exposure of 0.19 kg yr recorded with the NEMO-3 detector at the Modane Underground Laboratory. We find no evidence of this decay and set lower limits on the half-life in the range T1 /2>(1.1 - 3.2 )×1 021 yr at the 90% C.L., depending on the model used for the kinematic distributions of the emitted electrons.

  10. Efficacies of different proton pump inhibitor-based 14-day bismuth-furazolidone quadruple regimens for the initial eradication of Helicobacter pylori in the southeast coastal region of China: an open-label, randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Chen, Luyi; He, Jiamin; Wang, Lan; Ge, Qiwei; Chu, Hua; Chen, Yujia; Chen, Xiaoli; Long, Yanqin; Deng, Yanyong; He, Huiqin; Li, Aiqing; Chen, Shujie

    2018-06-06

    To evaluate potency and safety of 14-day bismuth-furazolidone quadruple regimens and to compare efficacies of five proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for the initial eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), 175 eligible patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to 14-day quadruple regimens consisting of bismuth (400 mg), amoxicillin (1 g), furazolidone (100 mg), and a PPI, twice a day. PPIs used were Group A (pantoprazole capsules, 40 mg), Group B (pantoprazole tablets, 40 mg), Group C (lansoprazole, 30 mg), Group D (esomeprazole, 20 mg), and Group E (rabeprazole, 10 mg). H. pylori status was reassessed by 13 C urea breath test on day 56 as the primary outcome. Gastrointestinal symptoms, parenteral side effects, compliance, and stool type were recorded simultaneously. The total eradication rates were 86.9% (152/175 [95% CI 80.9-91.5%]) and 95.6% (152/159 [91.1-98.2%]) by intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analysis. The efficacies of Group A, B, C, D, and E by ITT analysis were 91.4% (32/35 [76.9-98.2%]), 85.7% (30/35 [69.7-95.2%]), 88.6% (31/35 [73.3-96.8%]), 85.7% (30/35 [69.7-95.2%]), and 82.9% (29/35 [66.4-93.4%]) (p > 0.05). In the PP analysis, the efficacies were 97.0% (32/33), 93.8% (30/32), 93.9% (31/33), 100% (30/30), and 93.5% (29/31) (p > 0.05). Gastrointestinal symptoms and stool type were improved significantly (p < 0.05). Total side effects rate and poor compliance rate were 15.7% (25/159) and 5.0% (8/159). Fourteen-day bismuth-furazolidone quadruple regimens are of high potency and safety for the initial eradication of H. pylori. Efficacies of different PPIs and different dosages (9-32 mg omeprazole equivalents) showed no significant difference. The appropriate PPI can thus be chosen by clinicians.

  11. Nanogold-functionalized DNAzyme concatamers with redox-active intercalators for quadruple signal amplification of electrochemical immunoassay.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Jun; Lai, Wenqiang; Zhuang, Junyang; Tang, Juan; Tang, Dianping

    2013-04-10

    A novel and in situ amplified immunoassay strategy with quadruple signal amplification was designed for highly efficient electrochemical detection of low-abundance proteins (carcinoembryonic antigen, CEA, as a model) by using nanogold-functionalized DNAzyme concatamers with redox-active intercalators. To construct such an in situ amplification system, streptavidin-labeled gold nanoparticles (AuNP-SA) were initially used for the labelling of initiator strands (S0) and detection antibody (mAb2) with a large ratio (mAb2-AuNP-S0), and then two auxiliary DNA strands S1 and S2 were designed for in situ propagation of DNAzyme concatamers with the hemin/G-quadruplex format. The quadruple signal amplification was implemented by using the avidin-biotin chemistry, nanogold labels, DNA concatamers, and DNAzymes. In the presence of target CEA, the sandwiched immunocomplex was formed between the immobilized primary antibodies on the electrode and the conjugated detection antibodies on the mAb2-AuNP-S0. The carried S0 initiator strands could progress a chain reaction of hybridization events between alternating S1/S2 DNA strands to form a nicked double-helix. Upon addition of hemin, the hemin-binding aptamers could be bound to form the hemin/G-quadruplex-based DNAzymes. The formed double-helix DNA polymers could cause the intercalation of numerous electroactive methylene blue molecules. During the electrochemical measurement, the formed DNAzymes could catalyze the reduction of H2O2 in the solution to amplify the electrochemical signal of the intercalated methylene blue. Under optimal conditions, the electrochemical immunoassay exhibited a wide dynamic range of 1.0 fg mL(-1) to 20 ng mL(-1) toward CEA standards with a low detection limit of 0.5 fg mL(-1). Intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation (CV) were less than 8.5% and 11.5%, respectively. No significant differences at the 0.05 significance level were encountered in the analysis of 14 clinical serum specimens

  12. Applying the Quadruple Process Model to Evaluate Change in Implicit Attitudinal Responses During Therapy for Panic Disorder

    PubMed Central

    Clerkin, Elise M.; Fisher, Christopher R.; Sherman, Jeffrey W.; Teachman, Bethany A.

    2013-01-01

    Objective This study explored the automatic and controlled processes that may influence performance on an implicit measure across cognitive-behavioral group therapy for panic disorder. Method The Quadruple Process model was applied to error scores from an Implicit Association Test evaluating associations between the concepts Me (vs. Not Me) + Calm (vs. Panicked) to evaluate four distinct processes: Association Activation, Detection, Guessing, and Overcoming Bias. Parameter estimates were calculated in the panic group (n=28) across each treatment session where the IAT was administered, and at matched times when the IAT was completed in the healthy control group (n=31). Results Association Activation for Me + Calm became stronger over treatment for participants in the panic group, demonstrating that it is possible to change automatically activated associations in memory (vs. simply overriding those associations) in a clinical sample via therapy. As well, the Guessing bias toward the calm category increased over treatment for participants in the panic group. Conclusions This research evaluates key tenets about the role of automatic processing in cognitive models of anxiety, and emphasizes the viability of changing the actual activation of automatic associations in the context of treatment, versus only changing a person’s ability to use reflective processing to overcome biased automatic processing. PMID:24275066

  13. Testing Intelligently Includes Double-Checking Wechsler IQ Scores

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kuentzel, Jeffrey G.; Hetterscheidt, Lesley A.; Barnett, Douglas

    2011-01-01

    The rigors of standardized testing make for numerous opportunities for examiner error, including simple computational mistakes in scoring. Although experts recommend that test scoring be double-checked, the extent to which independent double-checking would reduce scoring errors is not known. A double-checking procedure was established at a…

  14. Ablation of porcine ligamentum flavum with Ho:YAG, q-switched Ho:YAG, and quadrupled Nd:YAG lasers.

    PubMed

    Johnson, Matt R; Codd, Patrick J; Hill, Westin M; Boettcher, Tara

    2015-12-01

    Ligamentum flavum (LF) is a tough, rubbery connective tissue providing a portion of the ligamentous stability to the spinal column, and in its hypertrophied state forms a significant compressive pathology in degenerative spinal stenosis. The interaction of lasers and this biological tissue have not been thoroughly studied. Technological advances improving endoscopic surgical access to the spinal canal makes selective removal of LF using small, flexible tools such as laser-coupled fiber optics increasingly attractive for treatment of debilitating spinal stenosis. Testing was performed to assess the effect of Ho:YAG, Q-switched Ho:YAG, and frequency quadrupled Nd:YAG lasers on samples of porcine LF. The objective was to evaluate the suitability of these lasers for surgical removal of LF. LF was resected from porcine spine within 2 hours of sacrifice and stored in saline until immediately prior to laser irradiation, which occurred within an additional 2 hours. The optical absorbance of a sample was measured over the spectral band from 190 to 2,360 nm both before and after dehydration. For the experiments using the Ho:YAG (λ = 2,080 nm, tp  = 140 µs, FWHM) and Q-Switched Ho:YAG (λ = 2,080 nm, tp  = 260 ns, FWHM) lasers, energy was delivered to the LF through a laser-fiber optic with 600 µm core and NA = 0.39. For the experiment using the frequency quadrupled Nd:YAG laser (λ = 266 nm, tp  = 5 ns FWHM), rather than applying the laser energy through a laser-fiber, the energy was focused through an aperture and lens directly onto the LF. Five experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of the given lasers on LF. First, using the Ho:YAG laser, the single-pulse laser-hole depth versus laser fluence was measured with the laser-fiber in direct contact with the LF (1 g force) and with a standoff distance of 1 mm between the laser-fiber face and the LF. Second, with the LF remaining in situ and the spine bisected

  15. Quadruple high-resolution α-glucosidase/α-amylase/PTP1B/radical scavenging profiling combined with high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry-solid-phase extraction-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for identification of antidiabetic constituents in crude root bark of Morus alba L.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Yong; Kongstad, Kenneth Thermann; Jäger, Anna Katharina; Nielsen, John; Staerk, Dan

    2018-06-29

    In this paper, quadruple high-resolution α-glucosidase/α-amylase/PTP1B/radical scavenging profiling combined with HPLC-HRMS-SPE-NMR were used for studying the polypharmacological properties of crude root bark extract of Morus alba L. This species is used as an anti-diabetic principle in many traditional treatment systems around the world, and the crude ethyl acetate extract of M. alba root bark was found to inhibit α-glucosidase, α-amylase and protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) with IC 50 values of 1.70 ± 0.72, 5.16 ± 0.69, and 5.07 ± 0.68 μg/mL as well as showing radical scavenging activity equaling a TEAC value of (3.82 ± 0.14) × 10 4  mM per gram extract. Subsequent investigation of the crude extract using quadruple high-resolution α-glucosidase/α-amylase/PTP1B/radical scavenging profiling provided a quadruple biochromatogram that allowed direct correlation of the HPLC peaks with one or more of the tested bioactivities. This was used to target subsequent HPLC-HRMS-SPE-NMR analysis towards peaks representing bioactive analytes, and led to identification of a new Diels-Alder adduct named Moracenin E as well as a series of Diels-Alder adducts and isoprenylated flavonoids as potent α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitors with IC 50 values in the range of 0.60-27.15 μM and 1.22-69.38 μM, respectively. In addition, these compounds and two 2-arylbenzofurans were found to be potent PTP1B inhibitors with IC 50 values ranging from 4.04 to 21.67 μM. The high-resolution radical scavenging profile also revealed that almost all of the compounds possess radical scavenging activity. In conclusion the quadruple high-resolution profiling method presented here allowed a detailed profiling of individual constituents in crude root bark extract of M. alba, and the method provides a general tool for detailed mapping of bioactive constituents in polypharmacological herbal remedies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Triple/quadruple patterning layout decomposition via novel linear programming and iterative rounding

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Yibo; Xu, Xiaoqing; Yu, Bei; Baldick, Ross; Pan, David Z.

    2016-03-01

    As feature size of the semiconductor technology scales down to 10nm and beyond, multiple patterning lithography (MPL) has become one of the most practical candidates for lithography, along with other emerging technologies such as extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL), e-beam lithography (EBL) and directed self assembly (DSA). Due to the delay of EUVL and EBL, triple and even quadruple patterning are considered to be used for lower metal and contact layers with tight pitches. In the process of MPL, layout decomposition is the key design stage, where a layout is split into various parts and each part is manufactured through a separate mask. For metal layers, stitching may be allowed to resolve conflicts, while it is forbidden for contact and via layers. In this paper, we focus on the application of layout decomposition where stitching is not allowed such as for contact and via layers. We propose a linear programming and iterative rounding (LPIR) solving technique to reduce the number of non-integers in the LP relaxation problem. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithms can provide high quality decomposition solutions efficiently while introducing as few conflicts as possible.

  17. Temperature and baric dependence of nuclear quadruple resonance spectra in indium and gallium monoselenides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khandozhko, Victor; Raranskii, Nikolai; Balazjuk, Vitaly; Samila, Andriy; Kovalyuk, Zahar

    2013-12-01

    Pulsed radiospectroscopy method has been used to study nuclear quadruple resonance (NQR) spectra of 69Ga and 115In isotopes in the layered semiconductors GaSe and InSe. It has been found that in GaSe and InSe there is a considerable temperature dependence of NQR frequency which in the temperature range of 250 to 390 K is practically linear with conversion slope 1.54 kHz/degree for 69Ga and 2.35 kHz/degree for 115In. In the same crystals the effect of uniaxial pressure on NQR spectra applied along the optical axis с up to the values of 500 kg/сm2 has been studied. A strong attenuation of NQR spectra intensity with increase in pressure on layered crystal package has been established. The unvaried multiplicity of resonance spectra indicates the absence of structural transformations in these layered crystals over the investigated range of temperatures and pressures.

  18. Progress towards two double-dot qubits in Si/SiGe: quadruple quantum dots

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Foote, Ryan H.; Ward, Daniel R.; Kim, Dohun; Thorgrimsson, Brandur; Smith, Luke; Savage, D. E.; Lagally, M. G.; Friesen, Mark; Coppersmith, S. N.; Eriksson, M. A.

    We present the fabrication and electrical characterization of two types of gate-defined quadruple quantum dot devices formed in Si/SiGe heterostructures. We compare two designs, one which uses three layers of tightly overlapping gates and is similar to the work found in, and one which uses only two layers of gates and has significantly more open space between neighboring gates. We demonstrate charge-state conditional quantum oscillations in the more open device, we compare the tunability of both devices with each other, and we discuss the implications of these measurements on a path towards larger numbers of coupled quantum dot qubits. This work is supported in part by ARO (W911NF-12-1-0607), NSF (DMR-1206915, PHY-1104660), ONR (N00014-15-1-0029) and the Department of Defense. Development and maintenance of the growth facilities used for fabricating samples supported by DOE (DE-FG02-03ER46028). DK acknowledges support from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Institutional Program (Project No. 2E26681). This research utilized facilities supported by the NSF (DMR-0832760, DMR-1121288).

  19. Cascaded Quadruple Active Bridge Structures for Multilevel DC to Three-Phase AC Conversion

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

    Johnson, Brian B; Achanta, Prasanta K; Maksimovic, Dragan

    This paper introduces a multilevel architecture comprised of interconnected dc to three-phase ac converter units. To enable series connected operation, each converter unit contains a quadruple active bridge (QAB) converter that provides isolation between the dc side and each of the three ac sides. Since each converter unit transfers dc-side power as constant balanced three-phase power on the ac side, this implies instantaneous input-output power balance and allows elimination of bulk capacitive energy storage. In addition to minimizing required capacitance, the proposed approach simultaneously enables simplified dc-link controllers amenable to decentralized implementation, supports bidirectional power transfer, and exhibits a modularmore » structure to enhance scalability. Isolation provided by the QAB allows a wide range of electrical configurations among multiple units in various dc-ac, ac-dc or ac-ac applications. In this paper, the focus is on series connections on the ac side to emphasize multilevel operation, and the approach is experimentally validated in a dc-ac system containing two cascaded converter units.« less

  20. A quadruple quasar coincident with a giant Ly-alpha nebula and a protocluster at z=2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vignali, Cristian

    2016-09-01

    We propose to observe the only known quadruple AGN system in the Universe, embedded in a giant Ly-alpha nebula at z 2. These active nuclei and the large number of Ly-alpha emitting galaxies at the same redshift are clear indications that this is one of the most overdense protoclusters known z 2. We request a 140 ks Chandra exposure to (a) define the basic X-ray properties of all the AGN and then their bolometric luminosities and Eddington ratios, and compare these with those of "isolated" quasars at similar redshifts/luminosities; (b) detect the hot gas emission in the protocluster. Chandra is unique for this investigation: the close (few arcsec) distance of some of the AGN needs high spatial resolution, and the extended emission requires low background contribution.

  1. Applying the Quadruple Process model to evaluate change in implicit attitudinal responses during therapy for panic disorder.

    PubMed

    Clerkin, Elise M; Fisher, Christopher R; Sherman, Jeffrey W; Teachman, Bethany A

    2014-01-01

    This study explored the automatic and controlled processes that may influence performance on an implicit measure across cognitive-behavioral group therapy for panic disorder. The Quadruple Process model was applied to error scores from an Implicit Association Test evaluating associations between the concepts Me (vs. Not Me) + Calm (vs. Panicked) to evaluate four distinct processes: Association Activation, Detection, Guessing, and Overcoming Bias. Parameter estimates were calculated in the panic group (n = 28) across each treatment session where the IAT was administered, and at matched times when the IAT was completed in the healthy control group (n = 31). Association Activation for Me + Calm became stronger over treatment for participants in the panic group, demonstrating that it is possible to change automatically activated associations in memory (vs. simply overriding those associations) in a clinical sample via therapy. As well, the Guessing bias toward the calm category increased over treatment for participants in the panic group. This research evaluates key tenets about the role of automatic processing in cognitive models of anxiety, and emphasizes the viability of changing the actual activation of automatic associations in the context of treatment, versus only changing a person's ability to use reflective processing to overcome biased automatic processing. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Quadruple Inversion-Recovery b-SSFP MRA of the Abdomen: Initial Clinical Validation

    PubMed Central

    Atanasova, Iliyana P.; Lim, Ruth P.; Chandarana, Hersh; Storey, Pippa; Bruno, Mary T; Kim, Daniel; Lee, Vivian S.

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to assess the image quality and diagnostic accuracy of non-contrast quadruple inversion-recovery balanced-SSFP MRA (QIR MRA) for detection of aortoiliac disease in a clinical population. QIR MRA was performed in 26 patients referred for routine clinical gadolinium-enhanced MRA (Gd-MRA) for known or suspected aortoiliac disease. Non-contrast images were independently evaluated for image qualityand degree of stenosisby two radiologists, usingconsensus Gd-MRA as the reference standard. Hemodynamically significant stenosis (≥ 50%) was found in 10% (22/226) of all evaluable segments on Gd-MRA. The sensitivity and specificity for stenosis evaluation by QIR MRA for the two readers were 86%/86% and 95%/93% respectively. Negative predictive value and positive predictive value were 98%/98% and 63%/53% respectively. For stenosis evaluation of the aortoiliac region QIR MRA showed good agreement with the reference standard with high negative predictive value and a tendency to overestimate mild disease presumably due to the flow-dependence of the technique. QIR MRA could be a reasonable alternative to Gd-MRA for ruling out stenosis when contrast is contraindicated due to impaired kidney function or in patients who undergo abdominal MRA for screening purposes. Further work is necessary to improve performance and justify routine clinical use. PMID:24998363

  3. Self-aligned quadruple patterning using spacer on spacer integration optimization for N5

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thibaut, Sophie; Raley, Angélique; Mohanty, Nihar; Kal, Subhadeep; Liu, Eric; Ko, Akiteru; O'Meara, David; Tapily, Kandabara; Biolsi, Peter

    2017-04-01

    To meet scaling requirements, the semiconductor industry has extended 193nm immersion lithography beyond its minimum pitch limitation using multiple patterning schemes such as self-aligned double patterning, self-aligned quadruple patterning and litho-etch / litho etch iterations. Those techniques have been declined in numerous options in the last few years. Spacer on spacer pitch splitting integration has been proven to show multiple advantages compared to conventional pitch splitting approach. Reducing the number of pattern transfer steps associated with sacrificial layers resulted in significant decrease of cost and an overall simplification of the double pitch split technique. While demonstrating attractive aspects, SAQP spacer on spacer flow brings challenges of its own. Namely, material set selections and etch chemistry development for adequate selectivities, mandrel shape and spacer shape engineering to improve edge placement error (EPE). In this paper we follow up and extend upon our previous learning and proceed into more details on the robustness of the integration in regards to final pattern transfer and full wafer critical dimension uniformity. Furthermore, since the number of intermediate steps is reduced, one will expect improved uniformity and pitch walking control. This assertion will be verified through a thorough pitch walking analysis.

  4. Quadruple Cone Coil with improved focality than Figure-8 coil in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rastogi, Priyam; Lee, Erik G.; Hadimani, Ravi L.; Jiles, David C.

    Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy which uses a time varying magnetic field to induce an electric field in the brain and to cause neuron depolarization. Magnetic coils play an important role in the TMS therapy since their coil geometry determines the focality and penetration's depth of the induced electric field in the brain. Quadruple Cone Coil (QCC) is a novel coil with an improved focality when compared to commercial Figure-8 coil. The results of this newly designed QCC coil are compared with the Figure-8 coil at two different positions of the head - vertex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, over the 50 anatomically realistic MRI derived head models. Parameters such as volume of stimulation, maximum electric, area of stimulation and location of maximum electric field are determined with the help of computer modelling of both coils. There is a decrease in volume of brain stimulated by 11.6 % and a modest improvement of 8 % in the location of maximum electric field due to QCC in comparison to the Figure-8 coil. The Carver Charitable Trust and The Galloway Foundation.

  5. Measuring self-aligned quadruple patterning pitch walking with scatterometry-based metrology utilizing virtual reference

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kagalwala, Taher; Vaid, Alok; Mahendrakar, Sridhar; Lenahan, Michael; Fang, Fang; Isbester, Paul; Shifrin, Michael; Etzioni, Yoav; Cepler, Aron; Yellai, Naren; Dasari, Prasad; Bozdog, Cornel

    2016-10-01

    Advanced technology nodes, 10 nm and beyond, employing multipatterning techniques for pitch reduction pose new process and metrology challenges in maintaining consistent positioning of structural features. A self-aligned quadruple patterning (SAQP) process is used to create the fins in FinFET devices with pitch values well below optical lithography limits. The SAQP process bears the compounding effects from successive reactive ion etch and spacer depositions. These processes induce a shift in the pitch value from one fin compared to another neighboring fin. This is known as pitch walking. Pitch walking affects device performance as well as later processes, which work on an assumption that there is consistent spacing between fins. In SAQP, there are three pitch walking parameters of interest, each linked to specific process steps in the flow. These pitch walking parameters are difficult to discriminate at a specific process step by singular evaluation technique or even with reference metrology, such as transmission electron microscopy. We will utilize a virtual reference to generate a scatterometry model to measure pitch walk for SAQP process flow.

  6. Multiresidue analysis of 36 pesticides in soil using a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method by liquid chromatography with tandem quadruple linear ion trap mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Feng, Xue; He, Zeying; Wang, Lu; Peng, Yi; Luo, Ming; Liu, Xiaowei

    2015-09-01

    A new method for simultaneous determination of 36 pesticides, including 15 organophosphorus, six carbamate, and some other pesticides in soil was developed by liquid chromatography with tandem quadruple linear ion trap mass spectrometry. The extraction and clean-up steps were optimized based on the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method. The data were acquired in multiple reaction monitoring mode combined with enhanced product ion to increase confidence of the analytical results. Validation experiments were performed in soil samples. The average recoveries of pesticides at four spiking levels (1, 5, 50, and 100 μg/kg) ranged from 63 to 126% with relative standard deviation below 20%. The limits of detection of pesticides were 0.04-0.8 μg/kg, and the limits of quantification were 0.1-2.6 μg/kg. The correlation coefficients (r(2) ) were higher than 0.990 in the linearity range of 0.5-200 μg/L for most of the pesticides. The method allowed for the analysis of the target pesticides in the lower μg/kg concentration range. The optimized method was then applied to the test of real soil samples obtained from several areas in China, confirming the feasibility of the method. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Application of CaCu3Ti4O12 based quadruple perovskites as a promising candidate for optoelectronic devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pal, Kamalesh; Jana, Rajkumar; Dey, Arka; Ray, Partha P.; Seikh, Md Motin; Gayen, Arup

    2018-05-01

    We report the synthesis of nanosized (40-50 nm) CaCu3-xMnxTi4-xMnxO12 (x = 0, 0.5 and 1) quadruple perovskite (QP) semiconductor via a modified combustion method for use as Schottky barrier diode (SBD) at the Al/QP junction. The fabricated SBD is analysed on the basis of thermionic emission theory to observe its quality and some important diode parameters. For insight analysis of charge transport mechanism through metal-semiconductor junction, theory of space charge limited currents is applied and discussed in the light of parameters like carrier concentration, mobility-lifetime product and diffusion length. The Mn-doped exhibit better device performance compared to parent material.

  8. Using the Quadruple Aim Framework to Measure Impact of Heath Technology Implementation: A Case Study of eConsult.

    PubMed

    Liddy, Clare; Keely, Erin

    2018-01-01

    Health technology solutions are too often implemented without a true understanding of the system-level problem they seek to address, resulting in excessive costs, poor adoption, ineffectiveness, and ultimately failure. Before implementing or adopting health care innovations, stakeholders should complete a thorough assessment to ensure effectiveness and value. In this article, we describe how to evaluate the impact of a health technology innovation through the 4 dimensions of care outlined by the Quadruple Aim Framework, using our experience with the Champlain Building Access to Specialists through eConsultation (BASE) eConsult service as a case example. A descriptive overview of data was collected between April 1, 2011, and August 31, 2017, using 4 dimensions of care outlined by the Quadruple Aim Framework: patient experience, provider experience, costs, and population health. Findings were drawn from use data, primary care provider closeout surveys, surveys/interviews with patients and provider, and costing data. Overall, patients have received access to specialist advice within days and find the advice useful in 86% of cases. Provider experience is very positive, with satisfaction ratings of high/very high value in 94% of cases. The service cost a weighted average of $47.35/case, compared with $133.60/case for traditional referrals. In total, 1,299 primary care providers have enrolled in the service, completing 28,838 cases since 2011. Monthly case volumes have grown from an average of 13 cases/month in 2011 to 969 cases/month in 2016. The eConsult service has been widely adopted in our region and is currently expanding to new jurisdictions across Canada. However, although we successfully demonstrated eConsult's impact on patient experience, provider satisfaction, and reducing costs, we met several challenges in evaluating its impact on population health. More work is needed to evaluate eConsult's impact on key population health metrics (eg, mortality, morbidity

  9. A Single Circumbinary Disk in the HD 98800 Quadruple System.

    PubMed

    Koerner; Jensen; Cruz; Guild; Gultekin

    2000-04-10

    We present subarcsecond thermal infrared imaging of HD 98800, a young quadruple system composed of a pair of low-mass spectroscopic binaries separated by 0&farcs;8 (38 AU), each with a K-dwarf primary. Images at wavelengths ranging from 5 to 24.5 µm show unequivocally that the optically fainter binary, HD 98800B, is the sole source of a comparatively large infrared excess on which a silicate emission feature is superposed. The excess is detected only at wavelengths of 7.9 µm and longer, peaks at 25 µm, and has a best-fit blackbody temperature of 150 K, indicating that most of the dust lies at distances greater than the orbital separation of the spectroscopic binary. We estimate the radial extent of the dust with a disk model that approximates radiation from the spectroscopic binary as a single source of equivalent luminosity. Given the data, the most likely values of disk properties in the ranges considered are Rin=5.0+/-2.5 AU, DeltaR=13+/-8 AU, lambda0=2+4-1.5 µm, gamma=0+/-2.5, and sigmatotal=16+/-3 AU2, where Rin is the inner radius, DeltaR is the radial extent of the disk, lambda0 is the effective grain size, gamma is the radial power-law exponent of the optical depth tau, and sigmatotal is the total cross section of the grains. The range of implied disk masses is 0.001-0.1 times that of the Moon. These results show that, for a wide range of possible disk properties, a circumbinary disk is far more likely than a narrow ring.

  10. Quadruple inversion-recovery b-SSFP MRA of the abdomen: initial clinical validation.

    PubMed

    Atanasova, Iliyana P; Lim, Ruth P; Chandarana, Hersh; Storey, Pippa; Bruno, Mary T; Kim, Daniel; Lee, Vivian S

    2014-09-01

    The purpose of this study is to assess the image quality and diagnostic accuracy of non-contrast quadruple inversion-recovery balanced-SSFP MRA (QIR MRA) for detection of aortoiliac disease in a clinical population. QIR MRA was performed in 26 patients referred for routine clinical gadolinium-enhanced MRA (Gd-MRA) for known or suspected aortoiliac disease. Non-contrast images were independently evaluated for image quality and degree of stenosis by two radiologists, using consensus Gd-MRA as the reference standard. Hemodynamically significant stenosis (≥50%) was found in 10% (22/226) of all evaluable segments on Gd-MRA. The sensitivity and specificity for stenosis evaluation by QIR MRA for the two readers were 86%/86% and 95%/93% respectively. Negative predictive value and positive predictive value were 98%/98% and 63%/53% respectively. For stenosis evaluation of the aortoiliac region QIR MRA showed good agreement with the reference standard with high negative predictive value and a tendency to overestimate mild disease presumably due to the flow-dependence of the technique. QIR MRA could be a reasonable alternative to Gd-MRA for ruling out stenosis when contrast is contraindicated due to impaired kidney function or in patients who undergo abdominal MRA for screening purposes. Further work is necessary to improve performance and justify routine clinical use. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Grain boundary, triple junction and quadruple point mobility controlled normal grain growth

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rios, P. R.; Glicksman, M. E.

    2015-07-01

    Reduction in stored free energy provides the thermodynamic driving force for grain and bubble growth in polycrystals and foams. Evolution of polycrystalline networks exhibit the additional complication that grain growth may be controlled by several kinetic mechanisms through which the decrease in network energy occurs. Polyhedral boundaries, triple junctions (TJs), and quadruple points (QPs) are the geometrically distinct elements of three dimensional networks that follow Plateau's rules, provided that grain growth is limited by diffusion through, and motion of, cell boundaries. Shvindlerman and co-workers have long recognized the kinetic influences on polycrystalline grain growth of network TJs and QPs. Moreover, the emergence of interesting polycrystalline nanomaterials underscored that TJs can indeed influence grain growth kinetics. Currently there exist few detailed studies concerned either with network distributions of grain size, number of faces per grain, or with 'grain trajectories', when grain growth is limited by the motion of its TJs or QPs. By contrast there exist abundant studies of classical grain growth limited by boundary mobility. This study is focused on a topological/geometrical representation of polycrystals to obtain statistical predictions of the grain size and face number distributions, as well as growth 'trajectories' during steady-state grain growth. Three limits to grain growth are considered, with grain growth kinetics controlled by boundary, TJ, and QP mobilities.

  12. Roughness and uniformity improvements on self-aligned quadruple patterning technique for 10nm node and beyond by wafer stress engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Eric; Ko, Akiteru; O'Meara, David; Mohanty, Nihar; Franke, Elliott; Pillai, Karthik; Biolsi, Peter

    2017-05-01

    Dimension shrinkage has been a major driving force in the development of integrated circuit processing over a number of decades. The Self-Aligned Quadruple Patterning (SAQP) technique is widely adapted for sub-10nm node in order to achieve the desired feature dimensions. This technique provides theoretical feasibility of multiple pitch-halving from 193nm immersion lithography by using various pattern transferring steps. The major concept of this approach is to a create spacer defined self-aligned pattern by using single lithography print. By repeating the process steps, double, quadruple, or octuple are possible to be achieved theoretically. In these small architectures, line roughness control becomes extremely important since it may contribute to a significant portion of process and device performance variations. In addition, the complexity of SAQP in terms of processing flow makes the roughness improvement indirective and ineffective. It is necessary to discover a new approach in order to improve the roughness in the current SAQP technique. In this presentation, we demonstrate a novel method to improve line roughness performances on 30nm pitch SAQP flow. We discover that the line roughness performance is strongly related to stress management. By selecting different stress level of film to be deposited onto the substrate, we can manipulate the roughness performance in line and space patterns. In addition, the impact of curvature change by applied film stress to SAQP line roughness performance is also studied. No significant correlation is found between wafer curvature and line roughness performance. We will discuss in details the step-by-step physical performances for each processing step in terms of critical dimension (CD)/ critical dimension uniformity (CDU)/line width roughness (LWR)/line edge roughness (LER). Finally, we summarize the process needed to reach the full wafer performance targets of LWR/LER in 1.07nm/1.13nm on 30nm pitch line and space pattern.

  13. 13. Historic drawing of rocket engine test facility layout, including ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    13. Historic drawing of rocket engine test facility layout, including Buildings 202, 205, 206, and 206A, February 3, 1984. NASA GRC drawing number CF-101539. On file at NASA Glenn Research Center. - Rocket Engine Testing Facility, NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, OH

  14. Lithostathine quadruple-helical filaments form proteinase K-resistant deposits in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

    PubMed

    Laurine, Emmanuelle; Grégoire, Catherine; Fändrich, Marcus; Engemann, Sabine; Marchal, Stéphane; Thion, Laurent; Mohr, Michel; Monsarrat, Bernard; Michel, Bernard; Dobson, Christopher M; Wanker, Erich; Erard, Monique; Verdier, Jean-Michel

    2003-12-19

    Autocatalytic cleavage of lithostathine leads to the formation of quadruple-helical fibrils (QHF-litho) that are present in Alzheimer's disease. Here we show that such fibrils also occur in Creutzfeldt-Jakob and Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker diseases, where they form protease-K-resistant deposits and co-localize with amyloid plaques formed from prion protein. Lithostathine does not appear to change its native-like, globular structure during fibril formation. However, we obtained evidence that a cluster of six conserved tryptophans, positioned around a surface loop, could act as a mobile structural element that can be swapped between adjacent protein molecules, thereby enabling the formation of higher order fibril bundles. Despite their association with these clinical amyloid deposits, QHF-litho differ from typical amyloid fibrils in several ways, for example they produce a different infrared spectrum and cannot bind Congo Red, suggesting that they may not represent amyloid structures themselves. Instead, we suggest that lithostathine constitutes a novel component decorating disease-associated amyloid fibrils. Interestingly, [6,6']bibenzothiazolyl-2,2'-diamine, an agent found previously to disrupt aggregates of huntingtin associated with Huntington's disease, can dissociate lithostathine bundles into individual protofilaments. Disrupting QHF-litho fibrils could therefore represent a novel therapeutic strategy to combat clinical amyloidoses.

  15. Comparison of two management strategies for Helicobacter pylori treatment: clinical study and cost-effectiveness analysis.

    PubMed

    Marko, Dritana; Calvet, Xavier; Ducons, Julio; Guardiola, Jordi; Tito, Llucia; Bory, Felipe

    2005-02-01

    First-line proton pump inhibitor-based triple and quadruple therapies for Helicobacter pylori eradication present similar levels of efficacy. Cross-over treatment (quadruple following triple failure, and triple following quadruple failure) seems the most sensible approach to treatment failures, but the two strategies -'quadruple first' versus 'triple first'- have not been previously compared. The aims of our study were to assess the usefulness and the cost-effectiveness of the two treatment strategies. Forty-nine out of 344 patients included in a previous study comparing triple therapy - 7 days of omeprazole, amoxicillin and clarithromycin twice a day - with quadruple therapy - 7 days of omeprazole twice a day, plus tetracycline, metronidazole and bismuth subcitrate three times a day - failed initial treatment and were assigned to cross-over therapy. Cure was determined by urea breath test. A decision analysis was performed to compare the two eradication strategies. Intention to treat cure rates were 46% (10/22 patients; 95% CI 24-68%) for second-line triple therapy and 63% (17/27 patients; 95% CI 42-81%) for second-line quadruple therapy. Per protocol cure rates were 71% and 85%, respectively. Intention to treat cure rates were 87% (95% CI 81-92%) for the 'triple first' versus 86% (95% CI 80-91%) for the 'quadruple first' strategy (p = .87). The 'quadruple first' strategy was more cost-effective. The incremental cost of 'triple first' strategy per person was 19 in the low-cost area and 65 US dollars in the high-cost area. The effectiveness of 'triple first' and 'quadruple first' strategies is similar, although the latter seems slightly more cost-effective.

  16. State-conditional coherent charge qubit oscillations in a Si/SiGe quadruple quantum dot

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ward, Daniel R.; Kim, Dohun; Savage, Donald E.; Lagally, Max G.; Foote, Ryan H.; Friesen, Mark; Coppersmith, Susan N.; Eriksson, Mark A.

    2016-10-01

    Universal quantum computation requires high-fidelity single-qubit rotations and controlled two-qubit gates. Along with high-fidelity single-qubit gates, strong efforts have been made in developing robust two-qubit logic gates in electrically gated quantum dot systems to realise a compact and nanofabrication-compatible architecture. Here we perform measurements of state-conditional coherent oscillations of a charge qubit. Using a quadruple quantum dot formed in a Si/SiGe heterostructure, we show the first demonstration of coherent two-axis control of a double quantum dot charge qubit in undoped Si/SiGe, performing Larmor and Ramsey oscillation measurements. We extract the strength of the capacitive coupling between a pair of double quantum dots by measuring the detuning energy shift (≈75 μeV) of one double dot depending on the excess charge configuration of the other double dot. We further demonstrate that the strong capacitive coupling allows fast, state-conditional Landau-Zener-Stückelberg oscillations with a conditional π phase flip time of about 80 ps, showing a promising pathway towards multi-qubit entanglement and control in semiconductor quantum dots.

  17. State-conditional coherent charge qubit oscillations in a Si/SiGe quadruple quantum dot

    DOE PAGES

    Ward, Daniel R.; Kim, Dohun; Savage, Donald E.; ...

    2016-10-18

    Universal quantum computation requires high-fidelity single-qubit rotations and controlled two-qubit gates. Along with high-fidelity single-qubit gates, strong efforts have been made in developing robust two-qubit logic gates in electrically gated quantum dot systems to realise a compact and nanofabrication-compatible architecture. Here we perform measurements of state-conditional coherent oscillations of a charge qubit. Using a quadruple quantum dot formed in a Si/SiGe heterostructure, we show the first demonstration of coherent two-axis control of a double quantum dot charge qubit in undoped Si/SiGe, performing Larmor and Ramsey oscillation measurements. We extract the strength of the capacitive coupling between a pair of doublemore » quantum dots by measuring the detuning energy shift (≈75 μeV) of one double dot depending on the excess charge configuration of the other double dot. Finally, we further demonstrate that the strong capacitive coupling allows fast, state-conditional Landau–Zener–Stückelberg oscillations with a conditional π phase flip time of about 80 ps, showing a promising pathway towards multi-qubit entanglement and control in semiconductor quantum dots.« less

  18. State-conditional coherent charge qubit oscillations in a Si/SiGe quadruple quantum dot

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

    Ward, Daniel R.; Kim, Dohun; Savage, Donald E.

    Universal quantum computation requires high-fidelity single-qubit rotations and controlled two-qubit gates. Along with high-fidelity single-qubit gates, strong efforts have been made in developing robust two-qubit logic gates in electrically gated quantum dot systems to realise a compact and nanofabrication-compatible architecture. Here we perform measurements of state-conditional coherent oscillations of a charge qubit. Using a quadruple quantum dot formed in a Si/SiGe heterostructure, we show the first demonstration of coherent two-axis control of a double quantum dot charge qubit in undoped Si/SiGe, performing Larmor and Ramsey oscillation measurements. We extract the strength of the capacitive coupling between a pair of doublemore » quantum dots by measuring the detuning energy shift (≈75 μeV) of one double dot depending on the excess charge configuration of the other double dot. Finally, we further demonstrate that the strong capacitive coupling allows fast, state-conditional Landau–Zener–Stückelberg oscillations with a conditional π phase flip time of about 80 ps, showing a promising pathway towards multi-qubit entanglement and control in semiconductor quantum dots.« less

  19. Metabolomics study on the hepatoprotective effect of scoparone using ultra-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Aihua; Sun, Hui; Dou, Shengshan; Sun, Wenjun; Wu, Xiuhong; Wang, Ping; Wang, Xijun

    2013-01-07

    Scoparone is an important constituent of Yinchenhao (Artemisia annua L.), a famous medicinal plant, and displayed bright prospects in the prevention and therapy of liver injury. However, the precise molecular mechanism of hepatoprotective effects has not been comprehensively explored. Here, metabolomics techniques are the comprehensive assessment of endogenous metabolites in a biological system and may provide additional insight into the mechanisms. The present investigation was designed to assess the effects and possible mechanisms of scoparone against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI-Q-TOF/MS) combined with pattern recognition approaches including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were integrated to discover differentiating metabolites. Results indicate five ions in the positive mode as differentiating metabolites. Functional pathway analysis revealed that the alterations in these metabolites were associated with primary bile acid biosynthesis, pyrimidine metabolism. Of note, scoparone has a potential pharmacological effect through regulating multiple perturbed pathways to the normal state. Our findings also showed that the robust metabolomics techniques are promising for getting biomarkers and clarifying mechanisms of disease, highlighting insights into drug discovery.

  20. 40 CFR 1039.505 - How do I test engines using steady-state duty cycles, including ramped-modal testing?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...-state duty cycles, including ramped-modal testing? 1039.505 Section 1039.505 Protection of Environment... duty cycles, including ramped-modal testing? This section describes how to test engines under steady-state conditions. In some cases, we allow you to choose the appropriate steady-state duty cycle for an...

  1. Monolithic Active Pixel Sensors (MAPS) in a Quadruple Well Technology for Nearly 100% Fill Factor and Full CMOS Pixels

    PubMed Central

    Ballin, Jamie Alexander; Crooks, Jamie Phillip; Dauncey, Paul Dominic; Magnan, Anne-Marie; Mikami, Yoshinari; Miller, Owen Daniel; Noy, Matthew; Rajovic, Vladimir; Stanitzki, Marcel; Stefanov, Konstantin; Turchetta, Renato; Tyndel, Mike; Villani, Enrico Giulio; Watson, Nigel Keith; Wilson, John Allan

    2008-01-01

    In this paper we present a novel, quadruple well process developed in a modern 0.18 μm CMOS technology called INMAPS. On top of the standard process, we have added a deep P implant that can be used to form a deep P-well and provide screening of N-wells from the P-doped epitaxial layer. This prevents the collection of radiation-induced charge by unrelated N-wells, typically ones where PMOS transistors are integrated. The design of a sensor specifically tailored to a particle physics experiment is presented, where each 50 μm pixel has over 150 PMOS and NMOS transistors. The sensor has been fabricated in the INMAPS process and first experimental evidence of the effectiveness of this process on charge collection is presented, showing a significant improvement in efficiency. PMID:27873817

  2. Monolithic Active Pixel Sensors (MAPS) in a Quadruple Well Technology for Nearly 100% Fill Factor and Full CMOS Pixels.

    PubMed

    Ballin, Jamie Alexander; Crooks, Jamie Phillip; Dauncey, Paul Dominic; Magnan, Anne-Marie; Mikami, Yoshiari; Miller, Owen Daniel; Noy, Matthew; Rajovic, Vladimir; Stanitzki, Marcel; Stefanov, Konstantin; Turchetta, Renato; Tyndel, Mike; Villani, Enrico Giulio; Watson, Nigel Keith; Wilson, John Allan

    2008-09-02

    In this paper we present a novel, quadruple well process developed in a modern 0.18 mm CMOS technology called INMAPS. On top of the standard process, we have added a deep P implant that can be used to form a deep P-well and provide screening of N-wells from the P-doped epitaxial layer. This prevents the collection of radiation-induced charge by unrelated N-wells, typically ones where PMOS transistors are integrated. The design of a sensor specifically tailored to a particle physics experiment is presented, where each 50 mm pixel has over 150 PMOS and NMOS transistors. The sensor has been fabricated in the INMAPS process and first experimental evidence of the effectiveness of this process on charge collection is presented, showing a significant improvement in efficiency.

  3. Tuner design and RF test of a four-rod RFQ

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, QuanFeng; Zhu, Kun; Guo, ZhiYu; Kang, MingLei; Gao, ShuLi; Lu, YuanRong; Chen, JiaEr

    2011-12-01

    A mini-vane four-rod radio frequency quadruple (RFQ) accelerator has been built for neutron imaging. The RFQ will operate at 201.5 MHz, and its length is 2.7 m. The original electric field distribution along the electrodes is not flat. The resonant frequency needs to be tuned to the operating value. And the frequency needs to be compensated for temperature change during high power RF test and beam test. As tuning such a RFQ is difficult, plate tuners and stick tuners are designed. This paper will present the tuners design, the tuning procedure, and the RF properties of the RFQ.

  4. Lable-free quadruple signal amplification strategy for sensitive electrochemical p53 gene biosensing.

    PubMed

    Wang, Zonghua; Xia, Jianfei; Song, Daimin; Zhang, Feifei; Yang, Min; Gui, Rijun; Xia, Lin; Bi, Sai; Xia, Yanzhi

    2016-03-15

    A versatile label-free quadruple signal amplification biosensing platform for p53 gene (target DNA) detection was proposed. The chitosan-graphene (CS-GR) modified electrode with excellent electron transfer ability could provide a large specific surface for high levels of AuNPs-DNA attachment. The large amount of AuNPs could immobilize more capture probes and enhance the electrochemical signal with the excellent electrocatalytic activity. Furthermore, with the assist of N.BstNB I (the nicking endonuclease), target DNA could be reused and more G-quadruplex-hemin DNAzyme could be formed, allowing significant signal amplification in the presence of H2O2. Such strategy can enhance the oxidation-reduction reaction of adsorbed methylene blue (MB) and efficiently improve the sensitivity of the proposed biosensor. The morphologies of materials and the stepwise biosensor were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) signals of MB provided quantitative measures of the concentrations of target DNA, with a linear calibration range of 1.0 × 10(-15)-1.0 × 10(-9)M and a detection limit of 3.0 × 10(-16)M. Moreover, the resulting biosensor also exhibited good specificity, acceptable reproducibility and stability, indicating that the present strategy was promising for broad potential application in clinic assay. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Design of dual band FSS by using quadruple L-slot technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fauzi, Noor Azamiah Md; Aziz, Mohamad Zoinol Abidin Abd.; Said, Maizatul Alice Meor; Othman, Mohd Azlishah; Ahmad, Badrul Hisham; Malek, Mohd Fareq Abd

    2015-05-01

    This paper presents a new design of dual band frequency selective surface (FSS) for band pass microwave transmission application. FSS can be used on energy saving glass to improve the transmission of wireless communication signals through the glass. The microwave signal will be attenuate when propagate throughout the different structure such as building. Therefore, some of the wireless communication system cannot be used in the optimum performance. The aim of this paper is designed, simulated and analyzed the new dual band FSS structure for microwave transmission. This design is based on a quadruple L slot combined with cross slot to produce pass band at 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz. The vertical of pair inverse L slot is used as the band pass for the frequency of 2.4GHz. While, the horizontal of pair inverse L slot is used as the band pass at frequency 900MHz. This design is simulated and analyzed by using Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio (MWS) software. The characteristics of the transmission (S21) and reflection (S11) of the dual band FSS were simulater and analyzed. The bandwidth of the first band is 118.91MHz which covered the frequency range from 833.4MHz until 952.31MHz. Meanwhile, the bandwidth for the second band is 358.84MHz which covered the frequency range from 2.1475GHz until 2.5063GHz. The resonance/center frequency of this design is obtained at 900MHz with a 26.902dB return loss and 2.37GHz with 28.506dB a return loss. This FSS is suitable as microwave filter for GSM900 and WLAN 2.4GHz application.

  6. Anomalous single-electron transfer in common-gate quadruple-dot single-electron devices with asymmetric junction capacitances

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Imai, Shigeru; Ito, Masato

    2018-06-01

    In this paper, anomalous single-electron transfer in common-gate quadruple-dot turnstile devices with asymmetric junction capacitances is revealed. That is, the islands have the same total number of excess electrons at high and low gate voltages of the swing that transfers a single electron. In another situation, two electrons enter the islands from the source and two electrons leave the islands for the source and drain during a gate voltage swing cycle. First, stability diagrams of the turnstile devices are presented. Then, sequences of single-electron tunneling events by gate voltage swings are investigated, which demonstrate the above-mentioned anomalous single-electron transfer between the source and the drain. The anomalous single-electron transfer can be understood by regarding the four islands as “three virtual islands and a virtual source or drain electrode of a virtual triple-dot device”. The anomalous behaviors of the four islands are explained by the normal behavior of the virtual islands transferring a single electron and the behavior of the virtual electrode.

  7. Line roughness improvements on self-aligned quadruple patterning by wafer stress engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Eric; Ko, Akiteru; Biolsi, Peter; Chae, Soo Doo; Hsieh, Chia-Yun; Kagaya, Munehito; Lee, Choongman; Moriya, Tsuyoshi; Tsujikawa, Shimpei; Suzuki, Yusuke; Okubo, Kazuya; Imai, Kiyotaka

    2018-04-01

    In integrated circuit and memory devices, size shrinkage has been the most effective method to reduce production cost and enable the steady increment of the number of transistors per unit area over the past few decades. In order to reduce the die size and feature size, it is necessary to minimize pattern formation in the advance node development. In the node of sub-10nm, extreme ultra violet lithography (EUV) and multi-patterning solutions based on 193nm immersionlithography are the two most common options to achieve the size requirement. In such small features of line and space pattern, line width roughness (LWR) and line edge roughness (LER) contribute significant amount of process variation that impacts both physical and electrical performances. In this paper, we focus on optimizing the line roughness performance by using wafer stress engineering on 30nm pitch line and space pattern. This pattern is generated by a self-aligned quadruple patterning (SAQP) technique for the potential application of fin formation. Our investigation starts by comparing film materials and stress levels in various processing steps and material selection on SAQP integration scheme. From the cross-matrix comparison, we are able to determine the best stack of film selection and stress combination in order to achieve the lowest line roughness performance while obtaining pattern validity after fin etch. This stack is also used to study the step-by-step line roughness performance from SAQP to fin etch. Finally, we will show a successful patterning of 30nm pitch line and space pattern SAQP scheme with 1nm line roughness performance.

  8. 8. VIEW OF RADIOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT, TEST METHODS INCLUDED RADIOGRAPHY AND ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    8. VIEW OF RADIOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT, TEST METHODS INCLUDED RADIOGRAPHY AND BETA BACKSCATTERING. (7/13/56) - Rocky Flats Plant, Non-Nuclear Production Facility, South of Cottonwood Avenue, west of Seventh Avenue & east of Building 460, Golden, Jefferson County, CO

  9. HH 222: A GIANT HERBIG-HARO FLOW FROM THE QUADRUPLE SYSTEM V380 ORI

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

    Reipurth, Bo; Aspin, Colin; Connelley, M. S.

    2013-11-01

    HH 222 is a giant shocked region in the L1641 cloud, and is popularly known as the Orion Streamers or ''the waterfall'' on account of its unusual structure. At the center of these streamers are two infrared sources coincident with a nonthermal radio jet aligned along the principal streamer. The unique morphology of HH 222 has long been associated with this radio jet. However, new infrared images show that the two sources are distant elliptical galaxies, indicating that the radio jet is merely an improbable line-of-sight coincidence. Accurate proper motion measurements of HH 222 reveal that the shock structure ismore » a giant bow shock moving directly away from the well-known, very young, Herbig Be star V380 Ori. The already known Herbig-Haro object HH 35 forms part of this flow. A new Herbig-Haro object, HH 1041, is found precisely in the opposite direction of HH 222 and is likely to form part of a counterflow. The total projected extent of this HH complex is 5.3 pc, making it among the largest HH flows known. A second outflow episode from V380 Ori is identified as a pair of HH objects, HH 1031 to the northwest and the already known HH 130 to the southeast, along an axis that deviates from that of HH 222/HH 1041 by only 3.°7. V380 Ori is a hierarchical quadruple system, including a faint companion of spectral type M5 or M6, which at an age of ∼1 Myr corresponds to an object straddling the stellar-to-brown dwarf boundary. We suggest that the HH 222 giant bow shock is a direct result of the dynamical interactions that led to the conversion from an initial non-hierarchical multiple system into a hierarchical configuration. This event occurred no more than 28,000 yr ago, as derived from the proper motions of the HH 222 giant bow shock.« less

  10. LPT. Plot plan and site layout. Includes shield test pool/EBOR ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    LPT. Plot plan and site layout. Includes shield test pool/EBOR facility. (TAN-645 and -646) low power test building (TAN-640 and -641), water storage tanks, guard house (TAN-642), pump house (TAN-644), driveways, well, chlorination building (TAN-643), septic system. Ralph M. Parsons 1229-12 ANP/GE-7-102. November 1956. Approved by INEEL Classification Office for public release. INEEL index code no. 038-0102-00-693-107261 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Area North, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  11. The Quadruple Helix-Based Innovation Model of Reference Sites for Active and Healthy Ageing in Europe: The Ageing@Coimbra Case Study

    PubMed Central

    Malva, João O.; Amado, Alda; Rodrigues, Alexandra; Mota-Pinto, Anabela; Cardoso, Ana F.; Teixeira, Ana M.; Todo-Bom, Ana; Devesa, António; Ambrósio, António F.; Cunha, António L.; Gomes, Bárbara; Dantas, Carina; Abreu, Cidalina; Santana, Isabel; Bousquet, Jean; Apóstolo, João; Santos, Lúcia; Meneses de Almeida, Lúcio; Illario, Maddalena; Veríssimo, Rafaela; Rodrigues, Vitor; Veríssimo, Manuel T.

    2018-01-01

    Challenges posed by demographic changes and population aging are key priorities for the Horizon 2020 Program of the European Commission. Aligned with the vision of the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIP on AHA), the development, exchange, and large-scale adoption of innovative good practices is a key element of the responses required to ensure all European citizens remain as active and healthy as possible as they age. Urged by the need of developing scalable disruptive innovation across Europe, the European Commission and the EIP on AHA created the Reference Sites; local coalition of partners that develop good practices to support AHA. Ageing@Coimbra is an example of how this can be achieved at a regional level. The consortium comprises over 70 institutions that develop innovative practices to support AHA in Portugal. Ageing@Coimbra partners support a regional network of stakeholders that build a holistic ecosystem in health and social care, taking into consideration the specificities of the territories, living environments and cultural resources (2,243,934 inhabitants, 530,423 aged 65 or plus live in the Centre Region of Portugal). Good practices in reducing the burden of brain diseases that affect cognition and memory impairment in older people and tackling social isolation in urban and rural areas are among the top priorities of Ageing@Coimbra. Profiting from the collaborative work of academia, business companies, civil society, and authorities, the quadruple helix of Ageing@Coimbra supports: early diagnosis of frailty and disease; care and cure; and active, assisted, and independent living. This paper describes, as a Community Case Study, the creation of a Reference Site of the EIP on AHA, Ageing@Coimbra, and its impact in Portugal. This Reference Site can motivate other regions to develop innovative formulas to federate stakeholders and networks, building consortia at regional level. This growing movement, across Europe, is

  12. The Quadruple Helix-Based Innovation Model of Reference Sites for Active and Healthy Ageing in Europe: The Ageing@Coimbra Case Study.

    PubMed

    Malva, João O; Amado, Alda; Rodrigues, Alexandra; Mota-Pinto, Anabela; Cardoso, Ana F; Teixeira, Ana M; Todo-Bom, Ana; Devesa, António; Ambrósio, António F; Cunha, António L; Gomes, Bárbara; Dantas, Carina; Abreu, Cidalina; Santana, Isabel; Bousquet, Jean; Apóstolo, João; Santos, Lúcia; Meneses de Almeida, Lúcio; Illario, Maddalena; Veríssimo, Rafaela; Rodrigues, Vitor; Veríssimo, Manuel T

    2018-01-01

    Challenges posed by demographic changes and population aging are key priorities for the Horizon 2020 Program of the European Commission. Aligned with the vision of the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIP on AHA), the development, exchange, and large-scale adoption of innovative good practices is a key element of the responses required to ensure all European citizens remain as active and healthy as possible as they age. Urged by the need of developing scalable disruptive innovation across Europe, the European Commission and the EIP on AHA created the Reference Sites; local coalition of partners that develop good practices to support AHA. Ageing@Coimbra is an example of how this can be achieved at a regional level. The consortium comprises over 70 institutions that develop innovative practices to support AHA in Portugal. Ageing@Coimbra partners support a regional network of stakeholders that build a holistic ecosystem in health and social care, taking into consideration the specificities of the territories, living environments and cultural resources (2,243,934 inhabitants, 530,423 aged 65 or plus live in the Centre Region of Portugal). Good practices in reducing the burden of brain diseases that affect cognition and memory impairment in older people and tackling social isolation in urban and rural areas are among the top priorities of Ageing@Coimbra. Profiting from the collaborative work of academia, business companies, civil society, and authorities, the quadruple helix of Ageing@Coimbra supports: early diagnosis of frailty and disease; care and cure; and active, assisted, and independent living. This paper describes, as a Community Case Study, the creation of a Reference Site of the EIP on AHA, Ageing@Coimbra, and its impact in Portugal. This Reference Site can motivate other regions to develop innovative formulas to federate stakeholders and networks, building consortia at regional level. This growing movement, across Europe, is

  13. Computational Analysis of Arc-Jet Wedge Tests Including Ablation and Shape Change

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Goekcen, Tahir; Chen, Yih-Kanq; Skokova, Kristina A.; Milos, Frank S.

    2010-01-01

    Coupled fluid-material response analyses of arc-jet wedge ablation tests conducted in a NASA Ames arc-jet facility are considered. These tests were conducted using blunt wedge models placed in a free jet downstream of the 6-inch diameter conical nozzle in the Ames 60-MW Interaction Heating Facility. The fluid analysis includes computational Navier-Stokes simulations of the nonequilibrium flowfield in the facility nozzle and test box as well as the flowfield over the models. The material response analysis includes simulation of two-dimensional surface ablation and internal heat conduction, thermal decomposition, and pyrolysis gas flow. For ablating test articles undergoing shape change, the material response and fluid analyses are coupled in order to calculate the time dependent surface heating and pressure distributions that result from shape change. The ablating material used in these arc-jet tests was Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator. Effects of the test article shape change on fluid and material response simulations are demonstrated, and computational predictions of surface recession, shape change, and in-depth temperatures are compared with the experimental measurements.

  14. Quadruple burden of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, chronic intestinal parasitoses, and multiple micronutrient deficiency in ethiopia: a summary of available findings.

    PubMed

    Amare, Bemnet; Moges, Beyene; Mulu, Andargachew; Yifru, Sisay; Kassu, Afework

    2015-01-01

    Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), tuberculosis (TB), and helminthic infections are among the commonest public health problems in the sub-Saharan African countries like Ethiopia. Multiple micronutrient deficiencies also known as the "hidden hunger" are common in people living in these countries either playing a role in their pathogenesis or as consequences. This results in a vicious cycle of multiple micronutrient deficiencies and infection/disease progression. As infection is profoundly associated with nutritional status resulting from decreased nutrient intake, decreased nutrient absorption, and nutrient losses, micronutrient deficiencies affect immune system and impact infection and diseases progression. As a result, micronutrients, immunity, and infection are interrelated. The goal of this review is therefore to provide a summary of available findings regarding the "quadruple burden trouble" of HIV, TB, intestinal parasitic infections, and multiple micronutrient deficiencies to describe immune-modulating effects related to disorders.

  15. Neuraminidase Subtyping of Avian Influenza Viruses with PrimerHunter-Designed Primers and Quadruplicate Primer Pools

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Yanyan; Khan, Mazhar; Măndoiu, Ion I.

    2013-01-01

    We have previously developed a software package called PrimerHunter to design primers for PCR-based virus subtyping. In this study, 9 pairs of primers were designed with PrimerHunter and successfully used to differentiate the 9 neuraminidase (NA) genes of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in multiple PCR-based assays. Furthermore, primer pools were designed and successfully used to decrease the number of reactions needed for NA subtyping from 9 to 4. The quadruplicate primer-pool method is cost-saving, and was shown to be suitable for the NA subtyping of both cultured AIVs and uncultured AIV swab samples. The primers selected for this study showed excellent sensitivity and specificity in NA subtyping by RT-PCR, SYBR green-based Real-time PCR and Real-time RT-PCR methods. AIV RNA of 2 to 200 copies (varied by NA subtypes) could be detected by these reactions. No unspecific amplification was displayed when detecting RNAs of other avian infectious viruses such as Infectious bronchitis virus, Infectious bursal disease virus and Newcastle disease virus. In summary, this study introduced several sensitive and specific PCR-based assays for NA subtyping of AIVs and also validated again the effectiveness of the PrimerHunter tool for the design of subtyping primers. PMID:24312367

  16. 40 CFR 1048.505 - How do I test engines using steady-state duty cycles, including ramped-modal testing?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...-state duty cycles, including ramped-modal testing? 1048.505 Section 1048.505 Protection of Environment... SPARK-IGNITION ENGINES Test Procedures § 1048.505 How do I test engines using steady-state duty cycles... some cases, we allow you to choose the appropriate steady-state duty cycle for an engine. In these...

  17. Development of hydrophilic interaction chromatography with quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry for heparin and low molecular weight heparin disaccharide analysis.

    PubMed

    Ouyang, Yilan; Wu, Chengling; Sun, Xue; Liu, Jianfen; Linhardt, Robert J; Zhang, Zhenqing

    2016-01-30

    Heparin and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) are widely used as clinical anticoagulants. The determination of their composition and structural heterogeneity still challenges analysts. Disaccharide compositional analysis, utilizing heparinase-catalyzed depolymerization, is one of the most important ways to evaluate the sequence, structural composition and quality of heparin and LMWH. Hydrophilic interaction chromatography coupled with quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HILIC/QTOFMS) has been developed to analyze the resulting digestion products. HILIC shows good resolution and excellent MS compatibility. Digestion products of heparin and LMWHs afforded up to 16 compounds that were separated using HILIC and analyzed semi-quantitatively. These included eight common disaccharides, two disaccharides derived from chain termini, three 3-O-sulfo-group-containing tetrasaccharides, along with three linkage region tetrasaccharides and their derivatives. Structures of these digestion products were confirmed by mass spectral analysis. The disaccharide compositions of a heparin, two batches of the LMWH, enoxaparin, and two batches of the LMWH, nadroparin, were compared. In addition to identifying disaccharides, 3-O-sulfo-group-containing tetrasaccharides, linkage region tetrasaccharides were observed having slightly different compositions and contents in these heparin products suggesting that they had been prepared using different starting materials or production processes. Thus, compositional analysis using HILIC/QTOFMS offers a unique insight into different heparin products. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  18. Relativistic Prolapse-Free Gaussian Basis Sets of Quadruple-ζ Quality: (aug-)RPF-4Z. III. The f-Block Elements.

    PubMed

    Teodoro, Tiago Quevedo; Visscher, Lucas; da Silva, Albérico Borges Ferreira; Haiduke, Roberto Luiz Andrade

    2017-03-14

    The f-block elements are addressed in this third part of a series of prolapse-free basis sets of quadruple-ζ quality (RPF-4Z). Relativistic adapted Gaussian basis sets (RAGBSs) are used as primitive sets of functions while correlating/polarization (C/P) functions are chosen by analyzing energy lowerings upon basis set increments in Dirac-Coulomb multireference configuration interaction calculations with single and double excitations of the valence spinors. These function exponents are obtained by applying the RAGBS parameters in a polynomial expression. Moreover, through the choice of C/P characteristic exponents from functions of lower angular momentum spaces, a reduction in the computational demand is attained in relativistic calculations based on the kinetic balance condition. The present study thus complements the RPF-4Z sets for the whole periodic table (Z ≤ 118). The sets are available as Supporting Information and can also be found at http://basis-sets.iqsc.usp.br .

  19. Quadruple Burden of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Chronic Intestinal Parasitoses, and Multiple Micronutrient Deficiency in Ethiopia: A Summary of Available Findings

    PubMed Central

    Amare, Bemnet; Moges, Beyene; Mulu, Andargachew; Yifru, Sisay; Kassu, Afework

    2015-01-01

    Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), tuberculosis (TB), and helminthic infections are among the commonest public health problems in the sub-Saharan African countries like Ethiopia. Multiple micronutrient deficiencies also known as the “hidden hunger” are common in people living in these countries either playing a role in their pathogenesis or as consequences. This results in a vicious cycle of multiple micronutrient deficiencies and infection/disease progression. As infection is profoundly associated with nutritional status resulting from decreased nutrient intake, decreased nutrient absorption, and nutrient losses, micronutrient deficiencies affect immune system and impact infection and diseases progression. As a result, micronutrients, immunity, and infection are interrelated. The goal of this review is therefore to provide a summary of available findings regarding the “quadruple burden trouble” of HIV, TB, intestinal parasitic infections, and multiple micronutrient deficiencies to describe immune-modulating effects related to disorders. PMID:25767808

  20. Investigation of shape, position, and permeability of shielding material in quadruple butterfly coil for focused transcranial magnetic stimulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rastogi, Priyam; Zhang, Bowen; Tang, Yalun; Lee, Erik G.; Hadimani, Ravi L.; Jiles, David C.

    2018-05-01

    Transcranial magnetic stimulation has been gaining popularity in the therapy for several neurological disorders. A time-varying magnetic field is used to generate electric field in the brain. As the development of TMS methods takes place, emphasis on the coil design increases in order to improve focal stimulation. Ideally reduction of stimulation of neighboring regions of the target area is desired. This study, focused on the improvement of the focality of the Quadruple Butterfly Coil (QBC) with supplemental use of different passive shields. Parameters such as shape, position and permeability of the shields have been explored to improve the focus of stimulation. Results have been obtained with the help of computer modelling of a MRI derived heterogeneous head model over the vertex position and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex position using a finite element tool. Variables such as maximum electric field induced on the grey matter and scalp, volume and area of stimulation above half of the maximum value of electric field on the grey matter, and ratio of the maximum electric field in the brain versus the scalp have been investigated.

  1. The quadruple bottom line: the advantages of incorporating Green Chemistry into the undergraduate chemistry major

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bodner, George M.

    2017-08-01

    When the author first became involved with the Green Chemistry movement, he noted that his colleagues in industry who were involved in one of the ACS Green Chemistry Institute® industrial roundtables emphasized the take-home message they described as the "triple bottom line." They noted that introducing Green Chemistry in industrial settings had economic, social, and environmental benefits. As someone who first went to school at age 5, and has been "going to school" most days for 65 years, it was easy for the author to see why introducing Green Chemistry into academics had similar beneficial effects within the context of economic, social and environmental domains at the college/university level. He was prepared to understand why faculty who had taught traditional courses often saw the advantage of incorporating Green Chemistry into the courses they teach. What was not as obvious is why students who were encountering chemistry for the first time were often equally passionate about the Green Chemistry movement. Recent attention has been paid, however, to a model that brings clarity to the hitherto vague term of "relevance" that might explain why integrating Green Chemistry into the undergraduate chemistry classroom can achieve a "quadruple bottom-line" for students because of potentially positive effects of adding a domain of "relevance" to the existing economic, social, and environmental domains.

  2. On a clean power generation system with the co-gasification of biomass and coal in a quadruple fluidized bed gasifier.

    PubMed

    Yan, Linbo; He, Boshu

    2017-07-01

    A clean power generation system was built based on the steam co-gasification of biomass and coal in a quadruple fluidized bed gasifier. The chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling technology was used to supply oxygen for the calciner. The solid oxide fuel cell and the steam turbine were combined to generate power. The calcium looping and mineral carbonation were used for CO 2 capture and sequestration. The aim of this work was to study the characteristics of this system. The effects of key operation parameters on the system total energy efficiency (ŋ ten ), total exergy efficiency (ŋ tex ) and carbon sequestration rate (R cs ) were detected. The energy and exergy balance calculations were implemented and the corresponding Sankey and Grassmann diagrams were drawn. It was found that the maximum energy and exergy losses occurred in the steam turbine. The system ŋ ten and ŋ tex could be ∼50% and ∼47%, and R cs could be over unit. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. More Than Just Accuracy: A Novel Method to Incorporate Multiple Test Attributes in Evaluating Diagnostic Tests Including Point of Care Tests.

    PubMed

    Thompson, Matthew; Weigl, Bernhard; Fitzpatrick, Annette; Ide, Nicole

    2016-01-01

    Current frameworks for evaluating diagnostic tests are constrained by a focus on diagnostic accuracy, and assume that all aspects of the testing process and test attributes are discrete and equally important. Determining the balance between the benefits and harms associated with new or existing tests has been overlooked. Yet, this is critically important information for stakeholders involved in developing, testing, and implementing tests. This is particularly important for point of care tests (POCTs) where tradeoffs exist between numerous aspects of the testing process and test attributes. We developed a new model that multiple stakeholders (e.g., clinicians, patients, researchers, test developers, industry, regulators, and health care funders) can use to visualize the multiple attributes of tests, the interactions that occur between these attributes, and their impacts on health outcomes. We use multiple examples to illustrate interactions between test attributes (test availability, test experience, and test results) and outcomes, including several POCTs. The model could be used to prioritize research and development efforts, and inform regulatory submissions for new diagnostics. It could potentially provide a way to incorporate the relative weights that various subgroups or clinical settings might place on different test attributes. Our model provides a novel way that multiple stakeholders can use to visualize test attributes, their interactions, and impacts on individual and population outcomes. We anticipate that this will facilitate more informed decision making around diagnostic tests.

  4. Genotoxicity of mercury used in chromosome aberration tests.

    PubMed

    Akiyama, M; Oshima, H; Nakamura, M

    2001-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the genotoxic effects of Hg released from dental amalgams. The chromosome aberration test was conducted using original extracts and their diluted solutions of conventional type amalgam and high copper amalgam. The concentrations of Hg, Cu and Ag in the original extract of high copper amalgam were 17.64, 7.97 and 43.90 microM, respectively. Those in the original extract of conventional type amalgam were 20.63, 7.87 and 14.79 microM, respectively. 10 and 30 microM Hg(2+) were also used for comparison. The frequency of chromosome aberrations was below 5% with 0 microM Hg(2+) and with a triple dilution of high copper amalgam extract, containing 5.88 microM Hg, 14.63 microM Cu and 2.65 microM Ag. However, 9.5% of the cells showed chromosome aberrations with a quadruple dilution of conventional type amalgam, containing 5.15 microM Hg, 3.69 microM Cu and 1.96 microM Ag. The amount of Hg in the quadruple dilution of conventional type amalgam was less than that in the triple dilution of high copper amalgam extract and 10 microM Hg(2+). A concentration of 30 microM Hg(2+) caused 34.5% of the cells to show chromosome aberrations while with a two-thirds dilution of high copper amalgam extract, containing 11.76 microM Hg, 29.26 microM Cu and 5.31 microM Ag, 58.5% of the cells showed chromosome aberrations. A two-thirds dilution of high copper amalgam extract induced more chromosome aberrations than 30 microM Hg(2+), although the amount of Hg was less than 30 microM Hg(2+). A triple dilution of conventional type amalgam extract, original extracts of conventional type amalgam and high copper amalgam and 100 microM Hg(2+) were induced few metaphases. It was revealed that the conventional type amalgam induced chromosome aberrations with quadruple dilution where cell viability was about 80% and that the high copper amalgam induced a high level of chromosome aberrations with the two-thirds dilution. The effects of low level Hg on humans

  5. Ten-day quadruple therapy comprising low-dose rabeprazole, bismuth, amoxicillin and tetracycline is an effective and safe first-line treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection in population with high antibiotic resistance: a prospective, multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled clinical trial in China.

    PubMed

    Xie, Yong; Zhu, Zhenhua; Wang, Jiangbin; Zhang, Lingxia; Zhang, Zhenyu; Lu, Hong; Zeng, Zhirong; Chen, Shiyao; Liu, Dongsheng; Lv, Nonghua

    2018-06-18

    Objectives: To investigate the efficacy and safety of 10-day bismuth quadruple therapy with amoxicillin, tetracycline or clarithromycin and different doses of rabeprazole for first-line treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled clinical trial was conducted between March 2013 and August 2014. A total of 431 H. pylori -infected patients with duodenal ulcers were enrolled and randomized into four treatment groups (1:1:1:1) for 10 days: 1. LR-BAC Group, which received rabeprazole 10 mg b.i.d., bismuth, amoxicillin and clarithromycin; 2. LR-BAT Group, which received rabeprazole 10mg b.i.d., bismuth, amoxicillin and tetracycline; 3. HR-BAC Group, which received rabeprazole 20 mg b.i.d., and bismuth, amoxicillin and clarithromycin; and 4. HR-BAT Group, which received rabeprazole 20 mg b.i.d., bismuth, amoxicillin, tetracycline. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by the E-test method. The primary outcome was H. pylori eradication at 4 weeks after the treatment. Results: The per-protocol (PP) eradication rates in the LR-BAC, LR-BAT, HR-BAC, and HR-BAT groups were 94.1%, 91.9%, 94.8% and 91.9%, respectively, while the intention-to-treat (ITT) eradication rates in those groups were 87.2%, 87.2%, 87.7% and 86%, respectively. There was no significant difference between four groups in PP analysis( P =0.799) and ITT analysis( P =0.985). The efficacies of four treatment therapy were not affected by antibiotics resistance. The adverse events in four treatment groups were similar, CNS and gastrointestinal symptoms were the most common reported. Conclusions: Bismuth-containing quadruple therapy with low-dose rabeprazole, amoxicillin and tetracycline is a good option for first-line treatment of H. pylori infection in population with high antibiotic resistance. Copyright © 2018 Xie et al.

  6. PROPERTIES OF THE CLOSE-IN TERTIARY IN THE QUADRUPLE SYSTEM V401 CYG

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

    Zhu, L.-Y.; Qian, S.-B.; Zhou, X.

    2013-08-01

    V401 Cyg is a quadruple system in which the spectroscopic signature of a close-in tertiary and a distant visual companion star were reported. Orbital properties of the close-in companion should provide valuable information on the formation of close binaries and stellar dynamical interaction. By analyzing new times of minimum light together with those collected from the literature, we discovered that the observed-calculated (O - C) curve of V401 Cyg shows a cyclic change with a short period of 3.5 yr and a semi-amplitude of 0.00436 days while it undergoes an upward parabolic variation. Those photoelectric and CCD data covered moremore » than two cycles and were analyzed for the light-travel time effect via the presence of the tertiary companion. The mass of the third body was determined to be M{sub 3}sin i' = 0.65({+-} 0.08) M{sub Sun }, which is close to the value estimated from the spectroscopic data (M{sub 3} {approx} 0.64 M{sub Sun }). This reveals that the orbital inclination of the tertiary was about i' {approx} 90 Degree-Sign , indicating that the contact components of V401 Cyg have the possibility of being eclipsed by the tertiary at an orbital distance of about 3.0 AU, and it may be a triply eclipsing hierarchical triple system. The upward parabolic change indicates a period increase at a rate of (P-dot{sub 2} = 1.5 x 10{sup -7} revealing a mass transfer from the secondary to the primary (M-dot{sub 2} = 5.9 x 10{sup -8} M{sub Sun} yr{sup -1}). This is consistent with the predictions of the theory of thermal relaxation oscillation (TRO) suggesting that V401 Cyg is undergoing an expanding-orbit stage in the TRO cycles.« less

  7. The Gaia-ESO Survey: double-, triple-, and quadruple-line spectroscopic binary candidates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Merle, T.; Van Eck, S.; Jorissen, A.; Van der Swaelmen, M.; Masseron, T.; Zwitter, T.; Hatzidimitriou, D.; Klutsch, A.; Pourbaix, D.; Blomme, R.; Worley, C. C.; Sacco, G.; Lewis, J.; Abia, C.; Traven, G.; Sordo, R.; Bragaglia, A.; Smiljanic, R.; Pancino, E.; Damiani, F.; Hourihane, A.; Gilmore, G.; Randich, S.; Koposov, S.; Casey, A.; Morbidelli, L.; Franciosini, E.; Magrini, L.; Jofre, P.; Costado, M. T.; Jeffries, R. D.; Bergemann, M.; Lanzafame, A. C.; Bayo, A.; Carraro, G.; Flaccomio, E.; Monaco, L.; Zaggia, S.

    2017-12-01

    Context. The Gaia-ESO Survey (GES) is a large spectroscopic survey that provides a unique opportunity to study the distribution of spectroscopic multiple systems among different populations of the Galaxy. Aims: Our aim is to detect binarity/multiplicity for stars targeted by the GES from the analysis of the cross-correlation functions (CCFs) of the GES spectra with spectral templates. Methods: We developed a method based on the computation of the CCF successive derivatives to detect multiple peaks and determine their radial velocities, even when the peaks are strongly blended. The parameters of the detection of extrema (DOE) code have been optimized for each GES GIRAFFE and UVES setup to maximize detection. The DOE code therefore allows to automatically detect multiple line spectroscopic binaries (SBn, n ≥ 2). Results: We apply this method on the fourth GES internal data release and detect 354 SBn candidates (342 SB2, 11 SB3, and even one SB4), including only nine SBs known in the literature. This implies that about 98% of these SBn candidates are new because of their faint visual magnitude that can reach V = 19. Visual inspection of the SBn candidate spectra reveals that the most probable candidates have indeed a composite spectrum. Among the SB2 candidates, an orbital solution could be computed for two previously unknown binaries: CNAME 06404608+0949173 (known as V642 Mon) in NGC 2264 and CNAME 19013257-0027338 in Berkeley 81 (Be 81). A detailed analysis of the unique SB4 (four peaks in the CCF) reveals that CNAME 08414659-5303449 (HD 74438) in the open cluster IC 2391 is a physically bound stellar quadruple system. The SB candidates belonging to stellar clusters are reviewed in detail to discard false detections. We suggest that atmospheric parameters should not be used for these system components; SB-specific pipelines should be used instead. Conclusions: Our implementation of an automatic detection of spectroscopic binaries within the GES has allowed the

  8. CGILS Phase 2 LES intercomparison of response of subtropical marine low cloud regimes to CO 2 quadrupling and a CMIP3 composite forcing change: Large eddy simulation of cloud feedbacks

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

    Blossey, Peter N.; Bretherton, Christopher S.; Cheng, Anning

    We extended Phase 1 of the CGILS large-eddy simulation (LES) intercomparison in order to understand if subtropical marine boundary-layer clouds respond to idealized climate perturbations consistently in six LES models. Here the responses to quadrupled carbon dioxide (“fast adjustment”) and to a composite climate perturbation representative of CMIP3 multimodel mean 2×CO 2 near-equilibrium conditions are analyzed. As in Phase 1, the LES is run to equilibrium using specified steady summertime forcings representative of three locations in the Northeast Pacific Ocean in shallow well-mixed stratocumulus, decoupled stratocumulus, and shallow cumulus cloud regimes. Our results are generally consistent with a single-LES studymore » of Bretherton et al. (2013) on which this intercomparison was based. Both quadrupled CO 2 and the composite climate perturbation result in less cloud and a shallower boundary layer for all models in well-mixed stratocumulus and for all but a single LES in decoupled stratocumulus and shallow cumulus, corroborating similar findings from global climate models (GCMs). For both perturbations, the amount of cloud reduction varies across the models, but there is less intermodel scatter than in GCMs. Furthermore, the cloud radiative effect changes are much larger in the stratocumulus-capped regimes than in the shallow cumulus regime, for which precipitation buffering may damp the cloud response. In the decoupled stratocumulus and cumulus regimes, both the CO 2 increase and CMIP3 perturbations reduce boundary-layer decoupling, due to the shallowing of inversion height.« less

  9. CGILS Phase 2 LES intercomparison of response of subtropical marine low cloud regimes to CO 2 quadrupling and a CMIP3 composite forcing change: Large eddy simulation of cloud feedbacks

    DOE PAGES

    Blossey, Peter N.; Bretherton, Christopher S.; Cheng, Anning; ...

    2016-10-27

    We extended Phase 1 of the CGILS large-eddy simulation (LES) intercomparison in order to understand if subtropical marine boundary-layer clouds respond to idealized climate perturbations consistently in six LES models. Here the responses to quadrupled carbon dioxide (“fast adjustment”) and to a composite climate perturbation representative of CMIP3 multimodel mean 2×CO 2 near-equilibrium conditions are analyzed. As in Phase 1, the LES is run to equilibrium using specified steady summertime forcings representative of three locations in the Northeast Pacific Ocean in shallow well-mixed stratocumulus, decoupled stratocumulus, and shallow cumulus cloud regimes. Our results are generally consistent with a single-LES studymore » of Bretherton et al. (2013) on which this intercomparison was based. Both quadrupled CO 2 and the composite climate perturbation result in less cloud and a shallower boundary layer for all models in well-mixed stratocumulus and for all but a single LES in decoupled stratocumulus and shallow cumulus, corroborating similar findings from global climate models (GCMs). For both perturbations, the amount of cloud reduction varies across the models, but there is less intermodel scatter than in GCMs. Furthermore, the cloud radiative effect changes are much larger in the stratocumulus-capped regimes than in the shallow cumulus regime, for which precipitation buffering may damp the cloud response. In the decoupled stratocumulus and cumulus regimes, both the CO 2 increase and CMIP3 perturbations reduce boundary-layer decoupling, due to the shallowing of inversion height.« less

  10. Cost-effective description of strong correlation: Efficient implementations of the perfect quadruples and perfect hextuples models

    DOE PAGES

    Lehtola, Susi; Parkhill, John; Head-Gordon, Martin

    2016-10-07

    Novel implementations based on dense tensor storage are presented here for the singlet-reference perfect quadruples (PQ) [J. A. Parkhill et al., J. Chem. Phys. 130, 084101 (2009)] and perfect hextuples (PH) [J. A. Parkhill and M. Head-Gordon, J. Chem. Phys. 133, 024103 (2010)] models. The methods are obtained as block decompositions of conventional coupled-cluster theory that are exact for four electrons in four orbitals (PQ) and six electrons in six orbitals (PH), but that can also be applied to much larger systems. PQ and PH have storage requirements that scale as the square, and as the cube of the numbermore » of active electrons, respectively, and exhibit quartic scaling of the computational effort for large systems. Applications of the new implementations are presented for full-valence calculations on linear polyenes (C nH n+2), which highlight the excellent computational scaling of the present implementations that can routinely handle active spaces of hundreds of electrons. The accuracy of the models is studied in the π space of the polyenes, in hydrogen chains (H 50), and in the π space of polyacene molecules. In all cases, the results compare favorably to density matrix renormalization group values. With the novel implementation of PQ, active spaces of 140 electrons in 140 orbitals can be solved in a matter of minutes on a single core workstation, and the relatively low polynomial scaling means that very large systems are also accessible using parallel computing.« less

  11. Cost-effective description of strong correlation: Efficient implementations of the perfect quadruples and perfect hextuples models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lehtola, Susi; Parkhill, John; Head-Gordon, Martin

    2016-10-01

    Novel implementations based on dense tensor storage are presented for the singlet-reference perfect quadruples (PQ) [J. A. Parkhill et al., J. Chem. Phys. 130, 084101 (2009)] and perfect hextuples (PH) [J. A. Parkhill and M. Head-Gordon, J. Chem. Phys. 133, 024103 (2010)] models. The methods are obtained as block decompositions of conventional coupled-cluster theory that are exact for four electrons in four orbitals (PQ) and six electrons in six orbitals (PH), but that can also be applied to much larger systems. PQ and PH have storage requirements that scale as the square, and as the cube of the number of active electrons, respectively, and exhibit quartic scaling of the computational effort for large systems. Applications of the new implementations are presented for full-valence calculations on linear polyenes (CnHn+2), which highlight the excellent computational scaling of the present implementations that can routinely handle active spaces of hundreds of electrons. The accuracy of the models is studied in the π space of the polyenes, in hydrogen chains (H50), and in the π space of polyacene molecules. In all cases, the results compare favorably to density matrix renormalization group values. With the novel implementation of PQ, active spaces of 140 electrons in 140 orbitals can be solved in a matter of minutes on a single core workstation, and the relatively low polynomial scaling means that very large systems are also accessible using parallel computing.

  12. Accelerated aortic imaging using small field of view imaging and electrocardiogram-triggered quadruple inversion recovery magnetization preparation.

    PubMed

    Peel, Sarah A; Hussain, Tarique; Cecelja, Marina; Abbas, Abeera; Greil, Gerald F; Chowienczyk, Philip; Spector, Tim; Smith, Alberto; Waltham, Matthew; Botnar, Rene M

    2011-11-01

    To accelerate and optimize black blood properties of the quadruple inversion recovery (QIR) technique for imaging the abdominal aortic wall. QIR inversion delays were optimized for different heart rates in simulations and phantom studies by minimizing the steady state magnetization of blood for T(1) = 100-1400 ms. To accelerate and improve black blood properties of aortic vessel wall imaging, the QIR prepulse was combined with zoom imaging and (a) "traditional" and (b) "trailing" electrocardiogram (ECG) triggering. Ten volunteers were imaged pre- and post-contrast administration using a conventional ECG-triggered double inversion recovery (DIR) and the two QIR implementations in combination with a zoom-TSE readout. The QIR implemented with "trailing" ECG-triggering resulted in consistently good blood suppression as the second inversion delay was timed during maximum systolic flow in the aorta. The blood signal-to-noise ratio and vessel wall to blood contrast-to-noise ratio, vessel wall sharpness, and image quality scores showed a statistically significant improvement compared with the traditional QIR implementation with and without ECG-triggering. We demonstrate that aortic vessel wall imaging can be accelerated with zoom imaging and that "trailing" ECG-triggering improves black blood properties of the aorta which is subject to motion and variable blood flow during the cardiac cycle. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  13. Penicillin allergy: value of including amoxicillin as a determinant in penicillin skin testing.

    PubMed

    Lin, Erina; Saxon, Andrew; Riedl, Marc

    2010-01-01

    Allergy to penicillins remains an important issue. Penicillin skin testing (PST) with major and minor determinants has been shown to be a highly valuable tool for identifying IgE-mediated penicillin allergy. The value of additional testing with side-chain-specific moieties from semisynthetic penicillins such as amoxicillin is not well-established in spite of the widespread use of these medications. A retrospective review of all consecutive inpatient PST results from 1995 to 2007 comprising 1,068 patients was performed in our institution on individuals with a self-reported history of beta-lactam allergy to assess the importance of including the amoxicillin determinant in a previously validated PST panel. Descriptive statistics were performed. The PST panel included penicilloyl-polylysine, penicillin G, penicilloate, penilloate and amoxicillin. Of 1,068 patients, 243 (23%) had a positive skin test reaction on the PST panel. Testing with amoxicillin was positive in 30.9% of patients, the majority of whom (81%) were also positive to 1 or more standard penicillin reagents. Fourteen of the 243 positive patients (5.8%) had a positive skin test reaction only to amoxicillin. Additionally, the use of penicilloate and penilloate minor determinants in combination with penicillin G identified a greater percentage of penicillin-allergic individuals compared to using only penicillin G (22.6 vs. 6.6%), demonstrating their importance in the PST panel. These data indicate that the inclusion of the amoxicillin determinant appears to identify a small but important group of allergic individuals who may otherwise test negative on a PST panel. Copyright 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  14. Observational constraint on the interacting dark energy models including the Sandage-Loeb test

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Ming-Jian; Liu, Wen-Biao

    2014-05-01

    Two types of interacting dark energy models are investigated using the type Ia supernova (SNIa), observational data (OHD), cosmic microwave background shift parameter, and the secular Sandage-Loeb (SL) test. In the investigation, we have used two sets of parameter priors including WMAP-9 and Planck 2013. They have shown some interesting differences. We find that the inclusion of SL test can obviously provide a more stringent constraint on the parameters in both models. For the constant coupling model, the interaction term has been improved to be only a half of the original scale on corresponding errors. Comparing with only SNIa and OHD, we find that the inclusion of the SL test almost reduces the best-fit interaction to zero, which indicates that the higher-redshift observation including the SL test is necessary to track the evolution of the interaction. For the varying coupling model, data with the inclusion of the SL test show that the parameter at C.L. in Planck priors is , where the constant is characteristic for the severity of the coincidence problem. This indicates that the coincidence problem will be less severe. We then reconstruct the interaction , and we find that the best-fit interaction is also negative, similar to the constant coupling model. However, for a high redshift, the interaction generally vanishes at infinity. We also find that the phantom-like dark energy with is favored over the CDM model.

  15. Unusual Coexistence of Nickel(II) and Nickel(IV) in the Quadruple Perovskite Ba 4Ni 2Ir 2O 12 Containing Ir 2NiO 12 Mixed-Metal-Cation Trimers

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

    Ferreira, Timothy; Heald, Steve M.; Smith, Mark. D.

    In this paper, the crystal chemistry and magnetic properties of two hexagonal nickel(IV)-containing perovskites, Ba 4Ni 1.94Ir 2.06O 12 and BaNiO 3, are reported. The 12R perovskite, Ba 4Ni 1.94Ir 2.06O 12, possesses an unexpected coexistence of nickel(II) and nickel(IV). This quadruple perovskite structure contains Ir 2NiO 12 mixed-metal-cation units in which direct metal–metal bonding between nickel(IV) and iridium(V) is inferred. Finally, X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements were conducted to confirm the simultaneous presence of nickel(II) and nickel(IV).

  16. Unusual Coexistence of Nickel(II) and Nickel(IV) in the Quadruple Perovskite Ba 4Ni 2Ir 2O 12 Containing Ir 2NiO 12 Mixed-Metal-Cation Trimers

    DOE PAGES

    Ferreira, Timothy; Heald, Steve M.; Smith, Mark. D.; ...

    2018-03-02

    In this paper, the crystal chemistry and magnetic properties of two hexagonal nickel(IV)-containing perovskites, Ba 4Ni 1.94Ir 2.06O 12 and BaNiO 3, are reported. The 12R perovskite, Ba 4Ni 1.94Ir 2.06O 12, possesses an unexpected coexistence of nickel(II) and nickel(IV). This quadruple perovskite structure contains Ir 2NiO 12 mixed-metal-cation units in which direct metal–metal bonding between nickel(IV) and iridium(V) is inferred. Finally, X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements were conducted to confirm the simultaneous presence of nickel(II) and nickel(IV).

  17. Identification and quantification of flavonoids and chromes in Baeckea frutescens by using HPLC coupled with diode-array detection and quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Jia, Bei-Xi; Huangfu, Qian-Qian; Ren, Feng-Xiao; Jia, Lu; Zhang, Yan-Bing; Liu, Hong-Min; Yang, Jie; Wang, Qiang

    2015-01-01

    This article marks the first report on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with diode-array detection (DAD) and quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF/MS) for the identification and quantification of main bioactive constituents in Baeckea frutescens. In total, 24 compounds were identified or tentatively characterised based on their retention behaviours, UV profiles and MS fragment information. Furthermore, a validated method with good linearity, sensitivity, precision, stability, repeatability and accuracy was successfully applied for simultaneous determination of five flavonoids and one chromone in different plant parts of B. frutescens collected at different harvest times, and their dynamic contents revealed the appropriate harvest times. The established HPLC-DAD-Q-TOF/MS using multi-bioactive markers was proved to be a validated strategy for the quality evaluation on both raw materials and related products of B. frutescens.

  18. Construction of a quadruple auxotrophic mutant of an industrial polyploid saccharomyces cerevisiae strain by using RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Guo-Chang; Kong, In Iok; Kim, Heejin; Liu, Jing-Jing; Cate, Jamie H D; Jin, Yong-Su

    2014-12-01

    Industrial polyploid yeast strains harbor numerous beneficial traits but suffer from a lack of available auxotrophic markers for genetic manipulation. Here we demonstrated a quick and efficient strategy to generate auxotrophic markers in industrial polyploid yeast strains with the RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease. We successfully constructed a quadruple auxotrophic mutant of a popular industrial polyploid yeast strain, Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 4124, with ura3, trp1, leu2, and his3 auxotrophies through RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease. Even though multiple alleles of auxotrophic marker genes had to be disrupted simultaneously, we observed knockouts in up to 60% of the positive colonies after targeted gene disruption. In addition, growth-based spotting assays and fermentation experiments showed that the auxotrophic mutants inherited the beneficial traits of the parental strain, such as tolerance of major fermentation inhibitors and high temperature. Moreover, the auxotrophic mutants could be transformed with plasmids containing selection marker genes. These results indicate that precise gene disruptions based on the RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease now enable metabolic engineering of polyploid S. cerevisiae strains that have been widely used in the wine, beer, and fermentation industries. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  19. Mass spectrometer measurements of test gas composition in a shock tunnel

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Skinner, K. A.; Stalker, R. J.

    1995-01-01

    Shock tunnels afford a means of generating hypersonic flow at high stagnation enthalpies, but they have the disadvantage that thermochemical effects make the composition of the test flow different to that of ambient air. The composition can be predicted by numerical calculations of the nozzle flow expansion, using simplified thermochemical models and, in the absence of experimental measurements, it has been necessary to accept the results given by these calculations. This note reports measurements of test gas composition, at stagnation enthalpies up to 12.5 MJ.kg(exp -1), taken with a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Limited results have been obtained in previous measurements. These were taken at higher stagnation enthalpies, and used a quadruple mass spectrometer. The time-of-flight method was preferred here because it enabled a number of complete mass spectra to be obtained in each test, and because it gives good mass resolution over the range of interest with air (up to 50 a.m.a.).

  20. Chemical profiling and quantification of Dan-Deng-Tong-Nao-capsule using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution hybrid quadruple-orbitrap mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Lv, Xiao-Jing; Sun, Zhi; Wang, Pei-Le; Yang, Jing; Xu, Tan-Ye; Jia, Qing-Quan; Li, Da-Wei; Su, Fang-Yi; Zhu, Zhen-Feng; Kang, Jian; Zhang, Xiao-Jian

    2018-01-30

    Dan-Deng-Tong-Nao capsule (DDTN) was a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, and has been widely used for the treatment of stroke clinically which caused by blood stasis. However, the bioactive substances and mechanism are unclear because of the complex compositions in DDTN. In this research, An ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with hybrid quadruple-orbitrap mass spectrometry (Q-Orbitrap MS) method was utilized to identify the chemical constituents of DDTN. In total, 102 compounds including diterpenes, lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids were identified by the accurate masses and fragmentation pathways, and 18 of them were unambiguously determined by comparison of reference standards. Besides, 12 representative compounds were simultaneously quantification analyzed and successfully applified for detecting in 9 batches of DDTN samples by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap MS in parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) mode. The proposed approach was validated to be satisfied in terms of linearity (0.9954-0.9999), LOD (0.771ng/mL), LOQ (2.568ng/mL), intra-day precision ( <2.68%), inter-day precision ( <4.52%), repeatability ( <2.96%), stability ( <3.21%), and recovery (94.6-105.5%). The results indicate that the method of combining UHPLC with Q-Orbitrap MS is practical and efficient for the chemical clarification in DDTN, and has great potential for the integrating quality control of other traditional Chinese medicines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Profiling analysis of low molecular weight heparins by multiple heart-cutting two dimensional chromatography with quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Ouyang, Yilan; Zeng, Yangyang; Rong, Yinxiu; Song, Yue; Shi, Lv; Chen, Bo; Yang, Xinlei; Xu, Naiyu; Linhardt, Robert J; Zhang, Zhenqing

    2015-09-01

    Low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) are polydisperse and microheterogenous mixtures of polysaccharides used as anticoagulant drugs. Profiling analysis is important for obtaining deeper insights into the structure of LMWHs. Previous oligosaccharide mapping methods are relatively low resolution and are unable to show an entire picture of the structural complexity of LMWHs. In the current study a profiling method was developed relying on multiple heart-cutting, two-dimensional, ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography with quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry. This represents an efficient, automated, and robust approach for profiling LMWHs. Using size-exclusion chromatography and ion-pairing reversed-phase chromatography in a two-dimensional separation, LMW components of different sizes and LMW components of the same size but with different charges and polarities can be resolved, providing a more complete picture of a LMWH. Structural information on each component was then obtained with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. More than 80 and 120 oligosaccharides were observed and unambiguously assigned from the LMWHs, nadroparin and enoxaparin, respectively. This method might be useful for quality control of LMWHs and as a powerful tool for heparin-related glycomics.

  2. Reliability based design including future tests and multiagent approaches

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Villanueva, Diane

    The initial stages of reliability-based design optimization involve the formulation of objective functions and constraints, and building a model to estimate the reliability of the design with quantified uncertainties. However, even experienced hands often overlook important objective functions and constraints that affect the design. In addition, uncertainty reduction measures, such as tests and redesign, are often not considered in reliability calculations during the initial stages. This research considers two areas that concern the design of engineering systems: 1) the trade-off of the effect of a test and post-test redesign on reliability and cost and 2) the search for multiple candidate designs as insurance against unforeseen faults in some designs. In this research, a methodology was developed to estimate the effect of a single future test and post-test redesign on reliability and cost. The methodology uses assumed distributions of computational and experimental errors with re-design rules to simulate alternative future test and redesign outcomes to form a probabilistic estimate of the reliability and cost for a given design. Further, it was explored how modeling a future test and redesign provides a company an opportunity to balance development costs versus performance by simultaneously designing the design and the post-test redesign rules during the initial design stage. The second area of this research considers the use of dynamic local surrogates, or surrogate-based agents, to locate multiple candidate designs. Surrogate-based global optimization algorithms often require search in multiple candidate regions of design space, expending most of the computation needed to define multiple alternate designs. Thus, focusing on solely locating the best design may be wasteful. We extended adaptive sampling surrogate techniques to locate multiple optima by building local surrogates in sub-regions of the design space to identify optima. The efficiency of this method

  3. Advanced in-line metrology strategy for self-aligned quadruple patterning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chao, Robin; Breton, Mary; L'herron, Benoit; Mendoza, Brock; Muthinti, Raja; Nelson, Florence; De La Pena, Abraham; Le, Fee li; Miller, Eric; Sieg, Stuart; Demarest, James; Gin, Peter; Wormington, Matthew; Cepler, Aron; Bozdog, Cornel; Sendelbach, Matthew; Wolfling, Shay; Cardinal, Tom; Kanakasabapathy, Sivananda; Gaudiello, John; Felix, Nelson

    2016-03-01

    Self-Aligned Quadruple Patterning (SAQP) is a promising technique extending the 193-nm lithography to manufacture structures that are 20nm half pitch or smaller. This process adopts multiple sidewall spacer image transfers to split a rather relaxed design into a quarter of its original pitch. Due to the number of multiple process steps required for the pitch splitting in SAQP, the process error propagates through each deposition and etch, and accumulates at the final step into structure variations, such as pitch walk and poor critical dimension uniformity (CDU). They can further affect the downstream processes and lower the yield. The impact of this error propagation becomes significant for advanced technology nodes when the process specifications of device design CD requirements are at nanometer scale. Therefore, semiconductor manufacturing demands strict in-line process control to ensure a high process yield and improved performance, which must rely on precise measurements to enable corrective actions and quick decision making for process development. This work aims to provide a comprehensive metrology solution for SAQP. During SAQP process development, the challenges in conventional in-line metrology techniques start to surface. For instance, critical-dimension scanning electron microscopy (CDSEM) is commonly the first choice for CD and pitch variation control. However, it is found that the high aspect ratio at mandrel level processes and the trench variations after etch prevent the tool from extracting the true bottom edges of the structure in order to report the position shift. On the other hand, while the complex shape and variations can be captured with scatterometry, or optical CD (OCD), the asymmetric features, such as pitch walk, show low sensitivity with strong correlations in scatterometry. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is known to provide useful direct measurements of the pitch walk in crystalline arrays, yet the data analysis is influenced by the incoming

  4. 78 FR 20345 - Modification and Expansion of CBP Centers of Excellence and Expertise Test To Include Six...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-04

    ... CBP Centers of Excellence and Expertise Test To Include Six Additional Centers AGENCY: U.S. Customs... announces U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP's) plan to modify and expand its test for the Centers of... the test program, identifies the purpose of the test and the regulations that will be affected...

  5. Charge and orbital orders and structural instability in high-pressure quadruple perovskite CeCuMn6O12

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Lei; Matsushita, Yoshitaka; Katsuya, Yoshio; Tanaka, Masahiko; Yamaura, Kazunari; Belik, Alexei A.

    2018-02-01

    We prepared a quadruple perovskite CeCuMn6O12 under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions at 6 GPa and about 1670 K and investigated its structural, magnetic and transport properties. CeCuMn6O12 crystallizes in space group Im-3 above T CO  =  297 K below this temperature, it adopts space group R-3 with the 1:3 (Mn4+:Mn3+) charge and orbital orders. Unusual compressed Mn3+O6 octahedra are realized in CeCuMn6O12 similar to CaMn7O12 with the  -Q 3 Jahn-Teller distortion mode. Below about 90 K, structural instability takes place with phase separation and the appearance of competing phases; and below 70 K, two R-3 phases coexist. CeCuMn6O12 exhibits a ferromagnetic-like transition below T C  =  140 K, and it is a semiconductor with the magnetoresistance reaching about  -40% at 140 K and 70 kOe. We argued that the valence of Ce is  +3 in CeCuMn6O12 with the Ce3+(C{{u}2+}Mn23+ )(Mn33+M{{n}4+} )O12 charge distribution in the charge-ordered R-3 phase and Ce3+(C{{u}2+}Mn23+ )(Mn43.25+ )O12 in the charge-disordered Im-3 phase.

  6. Overview of Non-nuclear Testing of the Safe, Affordable 30-kW Fission Engine, Including End-to-End Demonstrator Testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    VanDyke, M. K.; Martin, J. J.; Houts, M. G.

    2003-01-01

    Successful development of space fission systems will require an extensive program of affordable and realistic testing. In addition to tests related to design/development of the fission system, realistic testing of the actual flight unit must also be performed. At the power levels under consideration (3-300 kW electric power), almost all technical issues are thermal or stress related and will not be strongly affected by the radiation environment. These issues can be resolved more thoroughly, less expensively, and in a more timely fashing with nonnuclear testing, provided it is prototypic of the system in question. This approach was used for the safe, affordable fission engine test article development program and accomplished viz cooperative efforts with Department of Energy labs, industry, universiites, and other NASA centers. This Technical Memorandum covers the analysis, testing, and data reduction of a 30-kW simulated reactor as well as an end-to-end demonstrator, including a power conversion system and an electric propulsion engine, the first of its kind in the United States.

  7. Comparison of presumptive blood test kits including hexagon OBTI.

    PubMed

    Johnston, Emma; Ames, Carole E; Dagnall, Kathryn E; Foster, John; Daniel, Barbara E

    2008-05-01

    Four presumptive blood tests, Hexagon OBTI, Hemastix(R), Leucomalachite green (LMG), and Kastle-Meyer (KM) were compared for their sensitivity in the identification of dried bloodstains. Stains of varying blood dilutions were subjected to each presumptive test and the results compared. The Hexagon OBTI buffer volume was also reduced to ascertain whether this increased the sensitivity of the kit. The study found that Hemastix(R) was the most sensitive test for trace blood detection. Only with the reduced buffer volume was the Hexagon OBTI kit as sensitive as the LMG and KM tests. However, the Hexagon OBTI kit has the advantage of being a primate specific blood detection kit. This study also investigated whether the OBTI buffer within the kit could be utilized for DNA profiling after presumptive testing. The results show that DNA profiles can be obtained from the Hexagon OBTI kit buffer directly.

  8. Third-order Douglas-Kroll Relativistic Coupled-Cluster Theory through Connected Single, Double, Triple, and Quadruple Substitutions: Applications to Diatomic and Triatomic Hydrides

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

    Hirata, So; Yanai, Takeshi; De Jong, Wibe A.

    Coupled-cluster methods including through and up to the connected single, double, triple, and quadruple substitutions (CCSD, CCSDT, and CCSDTQ) have been automatically derived and implemented for sequential and parallel executions for use in conjunction with a one-component third-order Douglas-Kroll (DK3) approximation for relativistic corrections. A combination of the converging electron-correlation methods, the accurate relativistic reference wave functions, and the use of systematic basis sets tailored to the relativistic approximation has been shown to predict the experimental singlet-triplet separations within 0.02 eV (0.5 kcal/mol) for five triatomic hydrides (CH2, NH2+, SiH2, PH2+, and AsH2+), the experimental bond lengths within 0.002 angstroms,more » rotational constants within 0.02 cm-1, vibration-rotation constants within 0.01 cm-1, centrifugal distortion constants within 2 %, harmonic vibration frequencies within 9 cm-1 (0.4 %), anharmonic vibrational constants within 2 cm-1, and dissociation energies within 0.03 eV (0.8 kcal/mol) for twenty diatomic hydrides (BH, CH, NH, OH, FH, AlH, SiH, PH, SH, ClH, GaH, GeH, AsH, SeH, BrH, InH, SnH, SbH, TeH, and IH) containing main-group elements across the second through fifth periods of the periodic table. In these calculations, spin-orbit effects on dissociation energies, which were assumed to be additive, were estimated from the measured spin-orbit coupling constants of atoms and diatomic molecules, and an electronic energy in the complete-basis-set, complete-electron-correlation limit has been extrapolated by the formula which was in turn based on the exponential-Gaussian extrapolation formula of the basis set dependence.« less

  9. Audit of Trichomonas vaginalis test requesting by community referrers after a change from culture to molecular testing, including a cost analysis.

    PubMed

    Bissessor, Liselle; Wilson, Janet; McAuliffe, Gary; Upton, Arlo

    2017-06-16

    Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) prevalence varies among different communities and peoples. The availability of robust molecular platforms for the detection of TV has advanced diagnosis; however, molecular tests are more costly than phenotypic methodologies, and testing all urogenital samples is costly. We recently replaced culture methods with the Aptima Trichomonas vaginalis nucleic acid amplification test on specific request and as reflex testing by the laboratory, and have audited this change. Data were collected from August 2015 (microbroth culture and microscopy) and August 2016 (Aptima TV assay) including referrer, testing volumes, results and test cost estimates. In August 2015, 10,299 vaginal swabs, and in August 2016, 2,189 specimens (urogenital swabs and urines), were tested. The positivity rate went from 0.9% to 5.3%, and overall more TV infections were detected in 2016. The number needed to test and cost for one positive TV result respectively was 111 and $902.55 in 2015, and 19 and $368.92 in 2016. Request volumes and positivity rates differed among referrers. The methodology change was associated with higher overall detection of TV, and reductions in the numbers needed to test/cost for one TV diagnosis. Our audit suggests that there is room for improvement with TV test requesting in our community.

  10. Patulin and patulin producing Penicillium spp. occurrence in apples and apple-based products including baby food.

    PubMed

    Hammami, Walid; Al-Thani, Roda; Fiori, Stefano; Al-Meer, Saeed; Atia, Fathy Atia; Rabah, Duha; Migheli, Quirico; Jaoua, Samir

    2017-04-30

    Patulin has raised the international attention because of its health risk. In fact, it has mutagenic, neurotoxic, immunotoxic, genotoxic and gastrointestinal effects in animals. In the present work, patulin and patulin-producing Penicillium spp. in apple and apple-based products marketed in Qatar were analysed. Sampling was carried out using apple fruits and apple-based products. Fungi were isolated from undamaged apples, apple juice and baby apple food. DNA extraction was carried out with DNeasy Plant Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Valencia, USA). The molecular identification of fungal isolates was carried out using ITS1-ITS4 PCR. PCR products were sequenced and blasted. Patulin was extracted and analyzed by LC/MS/MS, then quantified using Agilent 1290UHPLC coupled to 6460 triple quadruple mass spectrometer. Forty-five samples of undamaged fresh apple fruits, apple juice and apple-based baby food products sold in different markets in Qatar were surveyed for both fungal and patulin contamination using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometery (LC/MS/MS). Twenty-five Penicillium spp. isolates were selected, including 23 P. expansum and one isolate each of P. brevicompactum and P. commune. All the tested Penicillium spp. isolates produced patulin in vitro (from 40 to 100 μg/g on Malt Yeast Extract agar medium). Patulin was detected in 100% of apple juice samples at levels ranging from 5.27 to 82.21 µg/kg. Only 5 samples contained patulin levels higher than European Union recommended limit (50 µg/kg). The average patulin contamination was 30.67 µg/kg and 10.92 µg/kg in baby apple juice and in baby apple compote, respectively.

  11. Pessary or Progesterone to Prevent Preterm delivery in women with short cervical length: the Quadruple P randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    van Zijl, Maud D; Koullali, Bouchra; Naaktgeboren, Christiana A; Schuit, Ewoud; Bekedam, Dick J; Moll, Etelka; Oudijk, Martijn A; van Baal, Wilhelmina M; de Boer, Marjon A; Visser, Henricus; van Drongelen, Joris; van de Made, Flip W; Vollebregt, Karlijn C; Muller, Moira A; Bekker, Mireille N; Brons, Jozien T J; Sueters, Marieke; Langenveld, Josje; Franssen, Maureen T; Schuitemaker, Nico W; van Beek, Erik; Scheepers, Hubertina C J; de Boer, Karin; Tepe, Eveline M; Huisjes, Anjoke J M; Hooker, Angelo B; Verheijen, Evelyn C J; Papatsonis, Dimitri N; Mol, Ben Willem J; Kazemier, Brenda M; Pajkrt, Eva

    2017-09-04

    Preterm birth is in quantity and in severity the most important topic in obstetric care in the developed world. Progestogens and cervical pessaries have been studied as potential preventive treatments with conflicting results. So far, no study has compared both treatments. The Quadruple P study aims to compare the efficacy of vaginal progesterone and cervical pessary in the prevention of adverse perinatal outcome associated with preterm birth in asymptomatic women with a short cervix, in singleton and multiple pregnancies separately. It is a nationwide open-label multicentre randomized clinical trial (RCT) with a superiority design and will be accompanied by an economic analysis. Pregnant women undergoing the routine anomaly scan will be offered cervical length measurement between 18 and 22 weeks in a singleton and at 16-22 weeks in a multiple pregnancy. Women with a short cervix, defined as less than, or equal to 35 mm in a singleton and less than 38 mm in a multiple pregnancy, will be invited to participate in the study. Eligible women will be randomly allocated to receive either progesterone or a cervical pessary. Following randomization, the silicone cervical pessary will be placed during vaginal examination or 200 mg progesterone capsules will be daily self-administered vaginally. Both interventions will be continued until 36 weeks gestation or until delivery, whichever comes first. Primary outcome will be composite adverse perinatal outcome of perinatal mortality and perinatal morbidity including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular haemorrhage grade III and IV, periventricular leukomalacia higher than grade I, necrotizing enterocolitis higher than stage I, Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) or culture proven sepsis. These outcomes will be measured up until 10 weeks after the expected due date. Secondary outcomes will be, among others, time to delivery, preterm birth rate before 28, 32, 34 and 37 weeks, admission to neonatal intensive care unit

  12. A quadruple mutant of Arabidopsis reveals a β-carotene hydroxylation activity for LUT1/CYP97C1 and a regulatory role of xanthophylls on determination of the PSI/PSII ratio

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Xanthophylls are oxygenated carotenoids playing an essential role as structural components of the photosynthetic apparatus. Xanthophylls contribute to the assembly and stability of light-harvesting complex, to light absorbance and to photoprotection. The first step in xanthophyll biosynthesis from α- and β-carotene is the hydroxylation of ε- and β-rings, performed by both non-heme iron oxygenases (CHY1, CHY2) and P450 cytochromes (LUT1/CYP97C1, LUT5/CYP97A3). The Arabidopsis triple chy1chy2lut5 mutant is almost completely depleted in β-xanthophylls. Results Here we report on the quadruple chy1chy2lut2lut5 mutant, additionally carrying the lut2 mutation (affecting lycopene ε-cyclase). This genotype lacks lutein and yet it shows a compensatory increase in β-xanthophylls with respect to chy1chy2lut5 mutant. Mutant plants show an even stronger photosensitivity than chy1chy2lut5, a complete lack of qE, the rapidly reversible component of non-photochemical quenching, and a peculiar organization of the pigment binding complexes into thylakoids. Biochemical analysis reveals that the chy1chy2lut2lut5 mutant is depleted in Lhcb subunits and is specifically affected in Photosystem I function, showing a deficiency in PSI-LHCI supercomplexes. Moreover, by analyzing a series of single, double, triple and quadruple Arabidopsis mutants in xanthophyll biosynthesis, we show a hitherto undescribed correlation between xanthophyll levels and the PSI-PSII ratio. The decrease in the xanthophyll/carotenoid ratio causes a proportional decrease in the LHCII and PSI core levels with respect to PSII. Conclusions The physiological and biochemical phenotype of the chy1chy2lut2lut5 mutant shows that (i) LUT1/CYP97C1 protein reveals a major β-carotene hydroxylase activity in vivo when depleted in its preferred substrate α-carotene; (ii) xanthophylls are needed for normal level of Photosystem I and LHCII accumulation. PMID:22513258

  13. A modified F-test for evaluating model performance by including both experimental and simulation uncertainties

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Experimental and simulation uncertainties have not been included in many of the statistics used in assessing agricultural model performance. The objectives of this study were to develop an F-test that can be used to evaluate model performance considering experimental and simulation uncertainties, an...

  14. Selection of drug-resistant HIV-1 during the early phase of viral decay is uncommon in treatment-naïve patients initiated on a three- or four-drug antiretroviral regimen including lamivudine.

    PubMed

    Bergroth, Tobias; Ekici, Halime; Gisslén, Magnus; Loes, Sabine Kinloch-de; Goh, Li-Ean; Freedman, Andrew; Lampe, Fiona; Johnson, Margaret A; Sönnerborg, Anders

    2009-01-01

    Therapy failure due to drug resistance development is a common phenomenon in HIV-infected patients. However, when the drug pressure leads to the earliest selection of drug-resistant HIV-1 populations is still unclear. In this study, the extent to which selection of the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase M184I/V mutations occur during the initial phase of viral decay in treatment-naïve HIV-1 infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) was examined. Plasma virus from three cohorts of treatment-naïve patients initiating quadruple (n = 43), triple (n = 14) or dual (n = 15) lamivudine-containing ART were analyzed for M184I/V during the first 6 months of therapy using direct sequencing and a sensitive selective real-time PCR method. Among quadruple ART patients, who all were treated at primary HIV-1 infection, only one patient developed M184V after 6 weeks of therapy, having had wild-type virus at baseline. No mutations were found in chronically infected patients on triple ART. In patients on dual therapy, M184I/V mutants were found frequently. Selection of M184I/V mutants was found to be rare during the initial phase of viral decay after initiation of ART in adherent patients given a three or four-drug combination, in contrast to those receiving a less potent regimen. The results suggest that triple and quadruple lamivudine + PI or PI/r containing ART given to treatment-naïve adherent patients is potent enough to prevent development of resistance during the first months of therapy.

  15. Low voltage 30-cm ion thruster development. [including performance and structural integrity (vibration) tests

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    King, H. J.

    1974-01-01

    The basic goal was to advance the development status of the 30-cm electron bombardment ion thruster from a laboratory model to a flight-type engineering model (EM) thruster. This advancement included the more conventional aspects of mechanical design and testing for launch loads, weight reduction, fabrication process development, reliability and quality assurance, and interface definition, as well as a relatively significant improvement in thruster total efficiency. The achievement of this goal was demonstrated by the successful completion of a series of performance and structural integrity (vibration) tests. In the course of the program, essentially every part and feature of the original 30-cm Thruster was critically evaluated. These evaluations, led to new or improved designs for the ion optical system, discharge chamber, cathode isolator vaporizer assembly, main isolator vaporizer assembly, neutralizer assembly, packaging for thermal control, electrical terminations and structure.

  16. Clarithromycin vs. Gemifloxacin in Quadruple Therapy Regimens for Empiric Primary Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Randomized Clinical Trial

    PubMed Central

    Masoodi, Mohsen; Talebi-Taher, Mahshid; Tabatabaie, Khadijeh; Khaleghi, Siamak; Faghihi, Amir-Hossein; Agah, Shahram; Asadi, Reyhaneh

    2015-01-01

    BACKGROUND Eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection plays a crucial role in the treatment of peptic ulcer. Clarithromycin resistance is a major cause of treatment failure. This randomized clinical trial aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a clarithromycin versus gemifloxacin containing quadruple therapy regimen in eradication of H.pylori infection. METHODS In this randomized double blind clinical trial (RCT 2012102011054N2), a total of 120 patients were randomized to two groups of 60 patients each. Patients with proven H.pylori infection were consecutively assigned into two groups to receive OBAG or OBAC in gastroenterology clinic in Rasoul-e- Akram General Hospital in Tehran, Iran. The patients in the OBAG group received omeprazole (20 mg) twice daily, bismuth subcitrate (240 mg) twice daily, amoxicillin (1 gr) twice daily, and gemifloxacin (320 mg) once daily, and those in the OBAC group received omeprazole (20 mg) twice daily, 240 mg of bismuth subcitrate twice daily, amoxicillin (1 gr) twice daily, and clarithromycin (500 mg) twice daily for 10 days. RESULTS Five patients from each group were excluded from the study because of poor compliance, so 110 patients completed the study. The intention-to-treat eradication rate was 61.6% and 66.6% for the OBAC and OBAG groups, respectively. According to the per protocol analysis, the success rates of eradication of H.pylori infection were 67.2% and 72.7% for OBAC and OBAG groups, respectively (p=0.568). CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that gemifloxacin containing regimen is at least as effective as clarithromycin regimen; hence, this new treatment could be considered as an alternative for the patients who cannot tolerate clarithromycin. PMID:26106468

  17. 75 FR 11915 - Chrysler, LLC, Sterling Heights Vehicle Test Center, Including On-Site Leased Workers From...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-12

    ... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration [TA-W-65,672] Chrysler, LLC, Sterling Heights Vehicle Test Center, Including On-Site Leased Workers From Caravan Knight Facilities Management LLC; Sterling Heights, MI; Amended Certification Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance and Alternative Trade Adjustment...

  18. 46 CFR 162.017-6 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... screens. (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the manufacturer shall have tests conducted, or submit evidence that such tests have been conducted, by the Underwriters' Laboratories, the... design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit drawings in quadruplicate showing the design...

  19. 46 CFR 162.017-6 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... screens. (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the manufacturer shall have tests conducted, or submit evidence that such tests have been conducted, by the Underwriters' Laboratories, the... design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit drawings in quadruplicate showing the design...

  20. 78 FR 28633 - Prometric, Inc., a Subsidiary of Educational Testing Service, Including On-Site Leased Workers...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-15

    ... Subsidiary of Educational Testing Service, Including On-Site Leased Workers From Office Team St. Paul... Office Team were employed on-site at the St. Paul, Minnesota location of the subject firm. The Department... workers leased from Office Team working on- site at the St. Paul, Minnesota location of Prometric, Inc., a...

  1. On the energy scale involved in the metal to insulator transition of quadruple perovskite EuCu3Fe4O12: infrared spectroscopy and ab-initio calculations.

    PubMed

    Brière, B; Kalinko, A; Yamada, I; Roy, P; Brubach, J B; Sopracase, R; Zaghrioui, M; Phuoc, V Ta

    2016-06-27

    Optical measurements were carried out by infrared spectroscopy on AA'3B4O12 A-site ordered quadruple perovskite EuCu3Fe4O12 (microscopic sample) as function of temperature. At 240 K (=TMI), EuCu3Fe4O12 undergoes a very abrupt metal to insulator transition, a paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic transition and an isostructural transformation with an abrupt large volume expansion. Above TMI, optical conductivity reveals a bad metal behavior and below TMI, an insulating phase with an optical gap of 125 meV is observed. As temperature is decreased, a large and abrupt spectral weight transfer toward an energy scale larger than 1 eV is detected. Concurrently, electronic structure calculations for both high and low temperature phases were compared to the optical conductivity results giving a precise pattern of the transition. Density of states and computed optical conductivity analysis identified Cu3dxy, Fe3d and O2p orbitals as principal actors of the spectral weight transfer. The present work constitutes a first step to shed light on EuCu3Fe4O12 electronic properties with optical measurements and ab-initio calculations.

  2. On the energy scale involved in the metal to insulator transition of quadruple perovskite EuCu3Fe4O12: infrared spectroscopy and ab-initio calculations

    PubMed Central

    Brière, B.; Kalinko, A.; Yamada, I.; Roy, P.; Brubach, J. B.; Sopracase, R.; Zaghrioui, M.; Phuoc, V. Ta

    2016-01-01

    Optical measurements were carried out by infrared spectroscopy on AA′3B4O12 A-site ordered quadruple perovskite EuCu3Fe4O12 (microscopic sample) as function of temperature. At 240 K (=TMI), EuCu3Fe4O12 undergoes a very abrupt metal to insulator transition, a paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic transition and an isostructural transformation with an abrupt large volume expansion. Above TMI, optical conductivity reveals a bad metal behavior and below TMI, an insulating phase with an optical gap of 125 meV is observed. As temperature is decreased, a large and abrupt spectral weight transfer toward an energy scale larger than 1 eV is detected. Concurrently, electronic structure calculations for both high and low temperature phases were compared to the optical conductivity results giving a precise pattern of the transition. Density of states and computed optical conductivity analysis identified Cu3dxy, Fe3d and O2p orbitals as principal actors of the spectral weight transfer. The present work constitutes a first step to shed light on EuCu3Fe4O12 electronic properties with optical measurements and ab-initio calculations. PMID:27346212

  3. Lyral has been included in the patch test standard series in Germany.

    PubMed

    Geier, Johannes; Brasch, Jochen; Schnuch, Axel; Lessmann, Holger; Pirker, Claudia; Frosch, Peter J

    2002-05-01

    Lyral 5% pet. was tested in 3245 consecutive patch test patients in 20 departments of dermatology in order (i) to check the diagnostic quality of this patch test preparation, (ii) to examine concomitant reactions to Lyral and fragrance mix (FM), and (iii) to assess the frequency of contact allergy to Lyral in an unselected patch test population of German dermatological clinics. 62 patients reacted to Lyral, i.e. 1.9%. One third of the positive reactions were + + and + + +. The reaction index was 0.27. Thus, the test preparation can be regarded a good diagnostic tool. Lyral and fragrance mix (FM) were tested in parallel in 3185 patients. Of these, 300 (9.4%) reacted to FM, and 59 (1.9%) to Lyral. In 40 patients, positive reactions to both occurred, which is 13.3% of those reacting to FM, and 67.8% of those reacting to Lyral. So the concordance of positive test reactions to Lyral and FM was only slight. Based on these results, the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group (DKG) decided to add Lyral 5% pet. to the standard series.

  4. FY 2016 Status Report: Documentation of All CIRFT Data including Hydride Reorientation Tests (Draft M2)

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

    Wang, Jy-An John; Wang, Hong; Jiang, Hao

    The first portion of this report provides a detailed description of fiscal year (FY) 2015 test result corrections and analysis updates based on FY 2016 updates to the Cyclic Integrated Reversible-Bending Fatigue Tester (CIRFT) program methodology, which is used to evaluate the vibration integrity of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) under normal conditions of transport (NCT). The CIRFT consists of a U-frame test setup and a real-time curvature measurement method. The three-component U-frame setup of the CIRFT has two rigid arms and linkages connecting to a universal testing machine. The curvature SNF rod bending is obtained through a three-point deflection measurementmore » method. Three linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs) are clamped to the side connecting plates of the U-frame and used to capture deformation of the rod. The second portion of this report provides the latest CIRFT data, including data for the hydride reorientation test. The variations in fatigue life are provided in terms of moment, equivalent stress, curvature, and equivalent strain for the tested SNFs. The equivalent stress plot collapsed the data points from all of the SNF samples into a single zone. A detailed examination revealed that, at the same stress level, fatigue lives display a descending order as follows: H. B. Robinson Nuclear Power Station (HBR), LMK, and mixed uranium-plutonium oxide (MOX). Just looking at the strain, LMK fuel has a slightly longer fatigue life than HBR fuel, but the difference is subtle. The third portion of this report provides finite element analysis (FEA) dynamic deformation simulation of SNF assemblies . In a horizontal layout under NCT, the fuel assembly’s skeleton, which is formed by guide tubes and spacer grids, is the primary load bearing apparatus carrying and transferring vibration loads within an SNF assembly. These vibration loads include interaction forces between the SNF assembly and the canister basket walls. Therefore, the integrity of the

  5. Discovery of 8 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Tomasella, Lina; Krannich, G.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Nicholls, B.; Cacella, P.; Kiyota, S.

    2018-05-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  6. Discovery of 9 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Castro, N.; Clocchiatti, A.; Cacella, P.; Wiethoff, W.; Krannich, G.; Stone, G.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Bock, G.

    2018-05-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  7. Discovery of 7 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Nicholls, B.; Trappett, D.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Stone, G.; Kiyota, S.

    2018-03-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  8. Discovery of Four ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Kiyota, S.; Cruz, I.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  9. Discovery of Eight ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Marples, P.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Farfan, R. G.; Fernandez, J. M.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  10. Discovery of Five ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  11. Discovery of 9 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Krannich, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Nicholls, B.

    2018-04-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  12. Discovery of 8 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Cruz, I.; Fernandez, J. M.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Stone, G.

    2018-03-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  13. Discovery of Six ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Bock, G.; Cornect, R.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  14. Discovery of Ten ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Krannich, G.; Koff, R. A.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Cacella, P.

    2018-01-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  15. Discovery of Six ASAS-SN Supernova Candidates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Conseil, E.

    2018-01-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  16. Discovery of Nine ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cacella, P.; Brimacombe, J.; Fernandez, J. M.; Kiyota, S.; Krannich, G.; Koff, R. A.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Aslan, L.; Bock, G.; Stone, G.

    2018-01-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  17. Discovery of 7 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Castro, N.; Clocchiatti, A.; Stone, G.; Nicholls, B.; Fernandez, J. M.; Cacella, P.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Bock, G.

    2018-06-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  18. Discovery of 8 ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Krannich, G.; Wiethoff, W.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.; Bock, G.

    2018-06-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  19. Preliminary test results from a free-piston Stirling engine technology demonstration program to support advanced radioisotope space power applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    White, Maurice A.; Qiu, Songgang; Augenblick, Jack E.

    2000-01-01

    Free-piston Stirling engines offer a relatively mature, proven, long-life technology that is well-suited for advanced, high-efficiency radioisotope space power systems. Contracts from DOE and NASA are being conducted by Stirling Technology Company (STC) for the purpose of demonstrating the Stirling technology in a configuration and power level that is representative of an eventual space power system. The long-term objective is to develop a power system with an efficiency exceeding 20% that can function with a high degree of reliability for up to 15 years on deep space missions. The current technology demonstration convertors (TDC's) are completing shakedown testing and have recently demonstrated performance levels that are virtually identical to projections made during the preliminary design phase. This paper describes preliminary test results for power output, efficiency, and vibration levels. These early results demonstrate the ability of the free-piston Stirling technology to exceed objectives by approximately quadrupling the efficiency of conventional radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG's). .

  20. Clinical features of congenital adrenal insufficiency including growth patterns and significance of ACTH stimulation test.

    PubMed

    Koh, Ji Won; Kim, Gu Hwan; Yoo, Han Wook; Yu, Jeesuk

    2013-11-01

    Congenital adrenal insufficiency is caused by specific genetic mutations. Early suspicion and definite diagnosis are crucial because the disease can precipitate a life-threatening hypovolemic shock without prompt treatment. This study was designed to understand the clinical manifestations including growth patterns and to find the usefulness of ACTH stimulation test. Sixteen patients with confirmed genotyping were subdivided into three groups according to the genetic study results: congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency (CAH, n=11), congenital lipoid adrenal hyperplasia (n=3) and X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita (n=2). Bone age advancement was prominent in patients with CAH especially after 60 months of chronologic age (n=6, 67%). They were diagnosed in older ages in group with bone age advancement (P<0.05). Comorbid conditions such as obesity, mental retardation, and central precocious puberty were also prominent in this group. In conclusion, this study showed the importance of understanding the clinical symptoms as well as genetic analysis for early diagnosis and management of congenital adrenal insufficiency. ACTH stimulation test played an important role to support the diagnosis and serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels were significantly elevated in all of the CAH patients. The test will be important for monitoring growth and puberty during follow up of patients with congenital adrenal insufficiency.

  1. Experimental test of a hot water storage system including a macro-encapsulated phase change material (PCM)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mongibello, L.; Atrigna, M.; Bianco, N.; Di Somma, M.; Graditi, G.; Risi, N.

    2017-01-01

    Thermal energy storage systems (TESs) are of fundamental importance for many energetic systems, essentially because they permit a certain degree of decoupling between the heat or cold production and the use of the heat or cold produced. In the last years, many works have analysed the addition of a PCM inside a hot water storage tank, as it can allow a reduction of the size of the storage tank due to the possibility of storing thermal energy as latent heat, and as a consequence its cost and encumbrance. The present work focuses on experimental tests realized by means of an indoor facility in order to analyse the dynamic behaviour of a hot water storage tank including PCM modules during a charging phase. A commercial bio-based PCM has been used for the purpose, with a melting temperature of 58°C. The experimental results relative to the hot water tank including the PCM modules are presented in terms of temporal evolution of the axial temperature profile, heat transfer and stored energy, and are compared with the ones obtained by using only water as energy storage material. Interesting insights, relative to the estimation of the percentage of melted PCM at the end of the experimental test, are presented and discussed.

  2. The perennial problem of variability in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) tests for hygiene monitoring within healthcare settings.

    PubMed

    Whiteley, Greg S; Derry, Chris; Glasbey, Trevor; Fahey, Paul

    2015-06-01

    To investigate the reliability of commercial ATP bioluminometers and to document precision and variability measurements using known and quantitated standard materials. Four commercially branded ATP bioluminometers and their consumables were subjected to a series of controlled studies with quantitated materials in multiple repetitions of dilution series. The individual dilutions were applied directly to ATP swabs. To assess precision and reproducibility, each dilution step was tested in triplicate or quadruplicate and the RLU reading from each test point was recorded. Results across the multiple dilution series were normalized using the coefficient of variation. The results for pure ATP and bacterial ATP from suspensions of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are presented graphically. The data indicate that precision and reproducibility are poor across all brands tested. Standard deviation was as high as 50% of the mean for all brands, and in the field users are not provided any indication of this level of imprecision. The variability of commercial ATP bioluminometers and their consumables is unacceptably high with the current technical configuration. The advantage of speed of response is undermined by instrument imprecision expressed in the numerical scale of relative light units (RLU).

  3. Modification of the BAX Salmonella test kit to include a hot start functionality (modification of AOAC Official Method 2003.09).

    PubMed

    Wallace, F Morgan; DiCosimo, Deana; Farnum, Andrew; Tice, George; Andaloro, Bridget; Davis, Eugene; Burns, Frank R

    2011-01-01

    In 2010, the BAX System PCR assay for Salmonella was modified to include a hot start functionality designed to keep the reaction enzyme inactive until PCR begins. To validate the assay's Official Methods of Analysis status to include this procedure modification, an evaluation was conducted on four food types that were simultaneously analyzed with the BAX System and either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Bacteriological Analytical Manual or the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook reference method for detecting Salmonella. Identical performance between the BAX System method and the reference methods was observed. Additionally, lysates were analyzed using both the BAX System Classic and BAX System Q7 instruments with identical results using both platforms for all samples tested. Of the 100 samples analyzed, 34 samples were positive for both the BAX System and reference methods, and 66 samples were negative by both the BAX System and reference methods, demonstrating 100% correlation. No instrument platform variation was observed. Additional inclusivity and exclusivity testing using the modified test kit demonstrated the test kit to be 100% accurate in evaluation of test panels of 352 Salmonella strains and 46 non-Salmonella strains.

  4. Recommendation to include fragrance mix 2 and hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral) in the European baseline patch test series.

    PubMed

    Bruze, Magnus; Andersen, Klaus Ejner; Goossens, An

    2008-03-01

    The currently used fragrance mix in the European baseline patch test series (baseline series) fails to detect a substantial number of clinically relevant fragrance allergies. To investigate whether it is justified to include hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral) and fragrance mix 2 containing hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde, citral, farnesol, coumarin, citronellol, and alpha-hexyl cinnamal in the European baseline patch test series. Survey of the literature on reported frequencies of contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis from fragrance mix 2 and hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral) as well as reported results of experimental provocation test. Fragrance mix 2 has been demonstrated to be a useful additional marker of fragrance allergy with contact allergy rates up to 5% when included in various national baseline patch test series. Of the fragrance substances present in fragrance mix 2, hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde is the most common sensitizer. Contact allergy rates between 1.5% and 3% have been reported for hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde in petrolatum (pet.) at 5% from various European centres when tested in consecutive dermatitis patients. From 2008, pet. preparations of fragrance mix 2 at 14% w/w (5.6 mg/cm(2)) and hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde at 5% w/w (2.0 mg/cm(2)) are recommended for inclusion in the baseline series. With the Finn Chamber technique, a dose of 20 mg pet. preparation is recommended. Whenever there is a positive reaction to fragrance mix 2, additional patch testing with the 6 ingredients, 5 if there are simultaneous positive reactions to hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde and fragrance mix 2, is recommended.

  5. ASAS-SN Discovery of an Unprecedented >1.5 Magnitude Optical Flare from QSO B0346-279

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J. V.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we have discovered an unprecedented optical brightening of QSO B0346-279 (z 0.9874).

  6. Evaluation and Comparison of Multiple Test Methods, Including Real-time PCR, for Legionella Detection in Clinical Specimens

    PubMed Central

    Peci, Adriana; Winter, Anne-Luise; Gubbay, Jonathan B.

    2016-01-01

    Legionella is a Gram-negative bacterium that can cause Pontiac fever, a mild upper respiratory infection and Legionnaire’s disease, a more severe illness. We aimed to compare the performance of urine antigen, culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test methods and to determine if sputum is an acceptable alternative to the use of more invasive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Data for this study included specimens tested for Legionella at Public Health Ontario Laboratories from 1st January, 2010 to 30th April, 2014, as part of routine clinical testing. We found sensitivity of urinary antigen test (UAT) compared to culture to be 87%, specificity 94.7%, positive predictive value (PPV) 63.8%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 98.5%. Sensitivity of UAT compared to PCR was 74.7%, specificity 98.3%, PPV 77.7%, and NPV 98.1%. Out of 146 patients who had a Legionella-positive result by PCR, only 66 (45.2%) also had a positive result by culture. Sensitivity for culture was the same using either sputum or BAL (13.6%); sensitivity for PCR was 10.3% for sputum and 12.8% for BAL. Both sputum and BAL yield similar results regardless testing methods (Fisher Exact p-values = 1.0, for each test). In summary, all test methods have inherent weaknesses in identifying Legionella; therefore, more than one testing method should be used. Obtaining a single specimen type from patients with pneumonia limits the ability to diagnose Legionella, particularly when urine is the specimen type submitted. Given ease of collection and similar sensitivity to BAL, clinicians are encouraged to submit sputum in addition to urine when BAL submission is not practical from patients being tested for Legionella. PMID:27630979

  7. Manufacture of fiber-epoxy test specimens: Including associated jigs and instrumentation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mathur, S. B.; Felbeck, D. K.

    1980-01-01

    Experimental work on the manufacture and strength of graphite-epoxy composites is considered. The correct data and thus a true assessment of the strength properties based on a proper and scientifically modeled test specimen with engineered design, construction, and manufacture has led to claims of a very broad spread in optimized values. Such behavior is in the main due to inadequate control during manufacture of test specimen, improper curing, and uneven scatter in the fiber orientation. The graphite fibers are strong but brittle. Even with various epoxy matrices and volume fraction, the fracture toughness is still relatively low. Graphite-epoxy prepreg tape was investigated as a sandwich construction with intermittent interlaminar bonding between the laminates in order to produce high strength, high fracture toughness composites. The quality and control of manufacture of the multilaminate test specimen blanks was emphasized. The dimensions, orientation and cure must be meticulous in order to produce the desired mix.

  8. Adaptive optics imaging of the MBM 12 association. Seven binaries and an edge-on disk in a quadruple system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chauvin, G.; Ménard, F.; Fusco, T.; Lagrange, A.-M.; Beuzit, J.-L.; Mouillet, D.; Augereau, J.-C.

    2002-11-01

    We report adaptive optics (AO) observations of the young and nearby association MBM 12 obtained with the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. Our main observational result is the discovery of six new binary systems, LkHα 264, E 0255+2018, RX J0255.4+2005, S18, MBM 12-10, RX J0255.3+1915, and the confirmation of HD 17332, already known as a binary. We also detected a possible quadruple system. It is composed of the close binary LkHα 263 AB (separation of ~ 0.41''), of LkHα 262 located ~ 15.25'' from LkHα 263 A, and of LkHα 263 C, located ~ 4.1'' from LkHα 263 A. A preliminary study of the binary fraction suggests a binary excess in the MBM 12 association as compared to the field and IC 348. Because of the high binarity rate, previous estimations of spectral types and measurements of IR excesses for several candidate members of MBM 12 have to be revised. LkHα 263 C is a nebulous object that we interpret as a disk oriented almost perfectly edge-on and seen in scattered light. This object has already been reported by Jayawardhana et al. (\\cite{Jayawardhana2002}). Scattered light models allow us to estimate some of the structural parameters (i.e. inclination, diameter and to a lesser extent dust mass) of the circumstellar disk. We find an inclination of 89o and a outer radius for the disk, ~ 165 AU if the distance to MBM 12 is 275 pc. With the present data set, we do not attempt to re-assess the distance to MBM 12. We estimate however that the distance to the candidate member RX J0255.3+1915 is d > 175 pc. Based on data collected at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. The CFHT corporation is funded by the Governments of Canada and France, and by the University of Hawaii.

  9. The Langley thermal protection system test facility: A description including design operating boundaries

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Klich, G. F.

    1976-01-01

    A description of the Langley thermal protection system test facility is presented. This facility was designed to provide realistic environments and times for testing thermal protection systems proposed for use on high speed vehicles such as the space shuttle. Products from the combustion of methane-air-oxygen mixtures, having a maximum total enthalpy of 10.3 MJ/kg, are used as a test medium. Test panels with maximum dimensions of 61 cm x 91.4 cm are mounted in the side wall of the test region. Static pressures in the test region can range from .005 to .1 atm and calculated equilibrium temperatures of test panels range from 700 K to 1700 K. Test times can be as long as 1800 sec. Some experimental data obtained while using combustion products of methane-air mixtures are compared with theory, and calibration of the facility is being continued to verify calculated values of parameters which are within the design operating boundaries.

  10. Prenatal care in your first trimester

    MedlinePlus

    ... for birth defects and genetic problems, such as Down syndrome or brain and spinal column defects. If your ... if the baby is at risk for having Down syndrome. If a test called a quadruple screen is ...

  11. 46 CFR 162.018-8 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Center, for re-approval. (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief valves by the...) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves different from those previously approved... approval of a new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate detail drawings...

  12. 46 CFR 162.018-8 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... Center, for re-approval. (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief valves by the...) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves different from those previously approved... approval of a new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate detail drawings...

  13. 46 CFR 162.018-8 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Center, for re-approval. (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief valves by the...) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves different from those previously approved... approval of a new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate detail drawings...

  14. 46 CFR 162.018-8 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... Center, for re-approval. (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief valves by the...) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves different from those previously approved... approval of a new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate detail drawings...

  15. 46 CFR 162.018-8 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... Center, for re-approval. (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief valves by the...) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves different from those previously approved... approval of a new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate detail drawings...

  16. A Geometrical Application of Number Theory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Srinivasan, V. K.

    2013-01-01

    Any quadruple of natural numbers {a, b, c, d} is called a "Pythagorean quadruple" if it satisfies the relationship "a[superscript 2] + b[superscript 2] + c[superscript 2]". This "Pythagorean quadruple" can always be identified with a rectangular box of dimensions "a greater than 0," "b greater than…

  17. Vertical drop test of a transport fuselage center section including the wheel wells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Williams, M. S.; Hayduk, R. J.

    1983-01-01

    A Boeing 707 fuselage section was drop tested to measure structural, seat, and anthropomorphic dummy response to vertical crash loads. The specimen had nominally zero pitch, roll and yaw at impact with a sink speed of 20 ft/sec. Results from this drop test and other drop tests of different transport sections will be used to prepare for a full-scale crash test of a B-720.

  18. Magnetic properties of quadruple perovskite solid solutions Ca{sub 1–x}Y{sub x}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} and Y{sub 1–y}Ce{sub x}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12}

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

    Murakami, Makoto; Mori, Shigeo; Yamada, Ikuya, E-mail: i-yamada@21c.osakafu-u.ac.jp

    Magnetic properties of the quadruple perovskite solid solutions Ca{sub 1–x}Y{sub x}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} and Y{sub 1–y}Ce{sub y}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} are investigated. Ca{sub 1–x}Y{sub x}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} shows continuous increase in the ferromagnetic transition temperature as x increases. Y{sub 1–y}Ce{sub y}Cu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} exhibits a ferromagnetic-antiferromagnetic transition in the vicinity of y = 0.5. These observations demonstrate the electron doping effect on magnetic properties of charge-disproportionated ACu{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}O{sub 12} phases.

  19. The quadruple squeeze: defining the safe operating space for freshwater use to achieve a triply green revolution in the anthropocene.

    PubMed

    Rockström, Johan; Karlberg, Louise

    2010-05-01

    Humanity has entered a new phase of sustainability challenges, the Anthropocene, in which human development has reached a scale where it affects vital planetary processes. Under the pressure from a quadruple squeeze-from population and development pressures, the anthropogenic climate crisis, the anthropogenic ecosystem crisis, and the risk of deleterious tipping points in the Earth system-the degrees of freedom for sustainable human exploitation of planet Earth are severely restrained. It is in this reality that a new green revolution in world food production needs to occur, to attain food security and human development over the coming decades. Global freshwater resources are, and will increasingly be, a fundamental limiting factor in feeding the world. Current water vulnerabilities in the regions in most need of large agricultural productivity improvements are projected to increase under the pressure from global environmental change. The sustainability challenge for world agriculture has to be set within the new global sustainability context. We present new proposed sustainability criteria for world agriculture, where world food production systems are transformed in order to allow humanity to stay within the safe operating space of planetary boundaries. In order to secure global resilience and thereby raise the chances of planet Earth to remain in the current desired state, conducive for human development on the long-term, these planetary boundaries need to be respected. This calls for a triply green revolution, which not only more than doubles food production in many regions of the world, but which also is environmentally sustainable, and invests in the untapped opportunities to use green water in rainfed agriculture as a key source of future productivity enhancement. To achieve such a global transformation of agriculture, there is a need for more innovative options for water interventions at the landscape scale, accounting for both green and blue water, as well

  20. Public interest in predictive genetic testing, including direct-to-consumer testing, for susceptibility to major depression: preliminary findings.

    PubMed

    Wilde, Alex; Meiser, Bettina; Mitchell, Philip B; Schofield, Peter R

    2010-01-01

    The past decade has seen rapid advances in the identification of associations between candidate genes and a range of common multifactorial disorders. This paper evaluates public attitudes towards the complexity of genetic risk prediction in psychiatry involving susceptibility genes, uncertain penetrance and gene-environment interactions on which successful molecular-based mental health interventions will depend. A qualitative approach was taken to enable the exploration of the views of the public. Four structured focus groups were conducted with a total of 36 participants. The majority of participants indicated interest in having a genetic test for susceptibility to major depression, if it was available. Having a family history of mental illness was cited as a major reason. After discussion of perceived positive and negative implications of predictive genetic testing, nine of 24 participants initially interested in having such a test changed their mind. Fear of genetic discrimination and privacy issues predominantly influenced change of attitude. All participants still interested in having a predictive genetic test for risk for depression reported they would only do so through trusted medical professionals. Participants were unanimously against direct-to-consumer genetic testing marketed through the Internet, although some would consider it if there was suitable protection against discrimination. The study highlights the importance of general practitioner and public education about psychiatric genetics, and the availability of appropriate treatment and support services prior to implementation of future predictive genetic testing services.

  1. Compact quadruple therapy with the lamivudine/zidovudine combination tablet plus abacavir and efavirenz, followed by the lamivudine/zidovudine/abacavir triple nucleoside tablet plus efavirenz in treatment-naïve HIV-infected adults.

    PubMed

    Ruane, Peter J; Parenti, David M; Margolis, David M; Shepp, David H; Babinchak, Timothy J; Van Kempen, Amy S; Kauf, Teresa L; Danehower, Susan A; Yau, Linda; Hessenthaler, Siegrid M; Goodwin, Diane; Hernandez, Jaime E

    2003-01-01

    To assess efficacy, safety, and adherence with compact quadruple therapy comprising one lamivudine 150-mg/zidovudine 300-mg tablet (COM) twice daily + one abacavir (ABC) 300-mg tablet twice daily + three efavirenz (EFV) 200-mg capsules at bedtime for 24 weeks, followed by one lamivudine 150-mg/zidovudine 300-mg/ABC 300-mg triple nucleoside tablet (TZV) twice daily + three EFV 200-mg capsules at bedtime for 24 weeks. A pilot 48-week, prospective, open-label trial in which 38 antiretroviral-naïve HIV-infected adults (baseline median HIV-1 RNA 5.1 log(10) copies/mL, CD4+ cell count 285/microL) received the above treatment and were monitored regularly with respect to plasma HIV-1 RNA levels, CD4+ cell counts, T-cell receptor excision circles (TRECs), adherence, and adverse events. At Week 48, intent-to-treat, switch-included analysis showed plasma HIV-1 RNA levels <400 copies/mL in 100% (29/29) of patients and <50 copies/mL in 93% (27/29); 59% of patients who achieved <50 copies/mL had <3 copies/mL (16/27). Similar virologic suppression was observed in patients with baseline HIV-1 RNA above or below 100000 copies/mL. HIV-1 RNA and CD4+ cell counts changed from baseline by a median of -3.4 log(10) copies/mL and +172 cells/microL, respectively. One virologic failure occurred at Week 16. Median TRECs/100000 peripheral blood lymphocytes increased 6-fold between baseline and Week 48. Median adherence rates were consistently 100% by self-report and 94% by pill count. Grade 2-4 treatment-related adverse events included dreams (16%), nausea (13%), decreased white cells (8%), dizziness (8%), sleep disorders (8%), and malaise and fatigue (8%). A suspected ABC hypersensitivity reaction occurred in 8% (3/38) of patients. COM/ABC/EFV or TZV/EFV produced potent, durable virologic suppression and immunologic benefits, was associated with high adherence rates, and was generally well tolerated.

  2. Discovery of Eight ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Carballo, J. G.; Farfan, R. G.; Koff, R. A.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping

    2017-11-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  3. Discovery of Seven ASAS-SN Candidate Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Stone, G.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Nicholls, B.

    2017-11-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  4. Discovery of Nine ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Cacella, P.; Carballo, J. G.; Farfan, R. G.; Koff, R. A.; Nicholls, B.; Post, R. S.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J. V.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Conseil, E.

    2017-11-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  5. Discovery of Eleven ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Conseil, E.; Stone, G.; Koff, R. A.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Kiyota, S.

    2017-12-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  6. ASASSN-17ny, ASASSN-17oc, ASASSN-17oe: Discovery of Three ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Trappett, D.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Marples, P.; Nicholls, B.; Stone, G.

    2017-11-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  7. Discovery of Three ASAS-SN Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Kiyota, S.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Koff, R. A.; Nicholls, B.

    2017-12-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  8. Discovery of Seven ASAS-SN Supernova Candidates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brimacombe, J.; Post, R. S.; Trappett, D.; Marples, P.; Koff, R. A.; Stone, G.; Vallely, P.; Stanek, K. Z.; Brown, J. S.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J. V.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Dong, Subo; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Kiyota, S.

    2017-12-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered several new transient sources.

  9. Advantages of Moxifloxacin and Levofloxacin-based triple therapy for second-line treatments of persistent Helicobacter pylori infection: a meta analysis.

    PubMed

    Li, Yuqin; Huang, Xiayue; Yao, Linhua; Shi, Ruihua; Zhang, Guoxin

    2010-07-01

    The main aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of clarithromycin and second-generation fluoroquinolone-based triple therapy vs. bismuth-based quadruple therapy for the treatment of persistent Helicobacter pylori infection. A systematic literature search was conducted for articles and abstracts from 1981 to March 2009 using Medline, PubMed, EMBase, Google Scholar and CNKI (Chinese), Wanfang (Chinese) digital database and recent Digestive Disease Week, United European Gastroenterology Week, and European Helicobacter Study Group conferences were also performed. Boolean operators (NOT, AND, OR) were used in succession to narrow and widen the search. Sixteen articles and four abstracts met the inclusion criteria, and were included in the meta-analysis by using Review Manager 4.2.8. The eradication rates demonstrated that clarithromycin-based triple therapy is inferior to bismuth-based quadruple therapy (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.35-0.80, P = 0.002). Thirteen RCTs compared levofloxacin-based triple therapy vs. bismuth-based quadruple therapy, the eradication rates of the two regimens were shown to have no significant difference (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 0.82-2.51, P = 0.21). But the eradication rates demonstrated superiority of the 10-day levofloxacin-based triple therapy over 7-day bismuth-based quadruple therapy (OR = 4.79, 95% CI: 2.95-7.79, P < 0.00001). Levofloxacin-based triple therapy was better tolerated than bismuth-based quadruple therapy with lower rates of side effects (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.27-0.61, P < 0.0001), and lower rates of discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events (OR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.06-0.33, P < 0.0001). Furthermore, our meta-analysis suggested that the eradication rates of the moxifloxacin-based triple therapy has a slight superiority to bismuth-based quadruple therapy, but there was no significant difference between them. Second-generation fluoroquinolone-based triple therapy can be suggested as the regimen of choice for

  10. Space shuttle orbiter avionics software: Post review report for the entry FACI (First Article Configuration Inspection). [including orbital flight tests integrated system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Markos, H.

    1978-01-01

    Status of the computer programs dealing with space shuttle orbiter avionics is reported. Specific topics covered include: delivery status; SSW software; SM software; DL software; GNC software; level 3/4 testing; level 5 testing; performance analysis, SDL readiness for entry first article configuration inspection; and verification assessment.

  11. BIODEGRADATIVE ANALYSIS OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE IN LABORATORY-SCALE LANDFILLS

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of research to characterize the anaerobic biodegradability of the major biodegradable components of municipal solid waste (MSW). Tests were conducted in quadruplicate in 2-L reactors operated to obtain maximum yields. Measured methane (CH4) yields for gra...

  12. ASAS-SN Discovery of ASASSN-18dw, a 4+ Magnitudes Stellar Outburst Towards Orion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Shields, J. V.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Dong, Subo; Stritzinger, M.

    2018-02-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Paczynski" telescope in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we detect a bright, rapidly raising transient source Object RA (J2000) DEC (J2000) Disc.

  13. Seasonal and Solar Activity Variations of f3 Layer and StF-4 F-Layer Quadruple Stratification) Near the Equatorial Region

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tardelli, A.; Fagundes, P. R.; Pezzopane, M.; Kavutarapu, V.

    2016-12-01

    The ionospheric F-layer shape and electron density peak variations depend on local time, latitude, longitude, season, solar cycle, geomagnetic activity, and electrodynamic conditions. In particular, the equatorial and low latitude F-layer may change its shape and peak height in a few minutes due to electric fields induced by propagation of medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs) or thermospheric - ionospheric coupling. This F-layer electrodynamics feature characterizing the low latitudes is one of the most remarkable ionospheric physics research field. The study of multiple-stratification of the F-layer has the initial records in the mid of the 20th century. Since then, many studies were focused on F3 layer. The diurnal, seasonal and solar activity variations of the F3 layer characteristics have been investigated by several researchers. Recently, investigations on multiple-stratifications of F-layer received an important boost after the quadruple stratification (StF-4) was observed at Palmas (10.3°S, 48.3°W; dip latitude 5.5°S - near equatorial region), Brazil (Tardelli & Fagundes, JGR, 2015). This study present the latest findings related with the seasonal and solar activity characteristics of the F3 layer and StF-4 near the equatorial region during the period from 2002 to 2006. A significant connection between StF-4 and F3 layer has been noticed, since the StF-4 is always preceded and followed by an F3 layer appearance. However, the F3 layer and StF-4 present different seasonal and solar cycle variations. At a near equatorial station Palmas, the F3 layer shows the maximum and minimum occurrence during summer and winter seasons respectively. On the contrary, the StF-4 presents the maximum and minimum occurrence during winter and summer seasons respectively. While the F3 layer occurrence is not affected by solar cycle, the StF-4 appearance is instead more frequent during High Solar Activity (HSA).

  14. The Effect of Including or Excluding Students with Testing Accommodations on IRT Calibrations.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Karkee, Thakur; Lewis, Dan M.; Barton, Karen; Haug, Carolyn

    This study aimed to determine the degree to which the inclusion of accommodated students with disabilities in the calibration sample affects the characteristics of item parameters and the test results. Investigated were effects on test reliability, item fit to the applicable item response theory (IRT) model, item parameter estimates, and students'…

  15. Medication use pattern and predictors of optimal therapy at discharge in 8176 patients with acute coronary syndrome from 6 Middle Eastern countries: data from the gulf registry of acute coronary events.

    PubMed

    Al-Zakwani, Ibrahim; Zubaid, Mohammad; Panduranga, Prashanth; Rashed, Wafa; Sulaiman, Kadhim; Almahmeed, Wael; Al-Motarreb, Ahmed; Al Suwaidi, Jassim; Amin, Haitham

    2011-08-01

    We evaluated the use of quadruple evidence-based medication (EBM) combination consisting of antiplatelet therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker, β-blocker, and lipid-lowering agent concurrently at discharge among patients (n = 8154) with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in 6 Middle Eastern countries. In all, 49% of the patients received the quadruple EBM combination concurrently at discharge. An adjusted model demonstrated that old age, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, cardiac catheterization, as well as cardiologists as care providers and hospitals with cardiac catheterization facilities were all positively correlated with the use of the quadruple EBM combination. However, patients with cardiogenic shock, renal impairment, higher risk score, congestive heart failure, recurrent ischemia, and those admitted to academic hospitals were negatively correlated with the use of the quadruple EBM combination. Guideline adherence to the concurrent use of quadruple EBM combination in patients with ACS at discharge was suboptimal with wide disparity among the 6 countries.

  16. Use of coal fly ash and other waste products in soil stabilization and road construction including non-destructive testing of roadways.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-06-01

    An extensive laboratory testing program was performed on subgrade soils stabilized using fly ash and : lime kiln dust. The laboratory program included measurements of: compaction curves, small strain elastic moduli, : resilient modulus (Mr), Briaud C...

  17. Use of coal fly ash and other waste products in soil stabilization and road construction-including non-destructive testing of roadways.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-02-01

    An extensive laboratory testing program was performed on subgrade soils stabilized using fly ash and lime kiln dust. The laboratory : program included measurements of: compaction curves, small strain elastic moduli, resilient modulus (Mr), Briaud Com...

  18. Helicobacter pylori-related diseases.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P

    2016-09-01

    This article describes the main conclusions drawn from the presentations on Helicobacter pylori infection in Digestive Diseases Week, 2016. Despite the undeniable widespread reduction in the prevalence of this infection, infection rates continue to be high in developing countries. The prevalence of clarithromycin, metronidazole and quinolone resistance is markedly high in most countries and continues to rise. The management of H. pylori infection in patients with peptic ulcers still leaves much to be desired. Although H. pylori eradication reduces the incidence of gastric adenocarcinoma, it does not completely avoid its appearance. The new rapid stool antigen tests show promising results. The efficacy of standard triple therapy is clearly inadequate and continues to decline, and cannot therefore be recommended. Vonoprazan, when associated with 2 antibiotics, is more effective than traditional proton pump inhibitors, especially in clarithromycin-resistant patients. Non-bismuth quadruple (concomitant) therapy achieves eradication rates of around 90% and has a good safety profile. Concomitant therapy is more effective and simpler than sequential therapy. Although some probiotics can increase the efficacy and tolerability of triple therapy, the utility of its association with quadruple concomitant therapy has not been established. If a first treatment with clarithromycin fails, both bismuth-containing quadruple therapy and levofloxacin-containing triple therapy achieve good-but still suboptimal-results. The combination of bismuth and levofloxacin in the same regimen increases the efficacy of rescue therapy. The management of H. pylori infection by European gastroenterologists is widely heterogeneous and the eradication rates achieved by them are generally unacceptable. In Spain, the highest first-line eradication rate is obtained with quadruple concomitant therapy in 14-day regimens and with double doses of proton pump inhibitors; in second-line therapy, the use of

  19. Considerations When Including Students with Disabilities in Test Security Policies. NCEO Policy Directions. Number 23

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lazarus, Sheryl; Thurlow, Martha

    2015-01-01

    Sound test security policies and procedures are needed to ensure test security and confidentiality, and to help prevent cheating. In this era when cheating on tests draws regular media attention, there is a need for thoughtful consideration of the ways in which possible test security measures may affect accessibility for some students with…

  20. 46 CFR 162.017-6 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... and size of wire of flame screens. (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the... desiring approval of a new design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit drawings in quadruplicate showing the design of the valve, the sizes for which approval is requested, method of operation...

  1. 46 CFR 162.017-6 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... and size of wire of flame screens. (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the... desiring approval of a new design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit drawings in quadruplicate showing the design of the valve, the sizes for which approval is requested, method of operation...

  2. 46 CFR 162.017-6 - Procedure for approval.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... and size of wire of flame screens. (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the... desiring approval of a new design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit drawings in quadruplicate showing the design of the valve, the sizes for which approval is requested, method of operation...

  3. Helicobacter pylori first-line and rescue treatments in the presence of penicillin allergy.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Barrio, Jesús; Modolell, Inés; Molina-Infante, Javier; Aisa, Angeles Perez; Castro-Fernández, Manuel; Rodrigo, Luis; Cosme, Angel; Gisbert, Jose Luis; Fernández-Bermejo, Miguel; Marcos, Santiago; Marín, Alicia C; McNicholl, Adrián G

    2015-02-01

    Helicobacter pylori eradication is a challenge in penicillin allergy. To assess the efficacy and safety of first-line and rescue treatments in patients allergic to penicillin. Prospective multicenter study. Patients allergic to penicillin were given a first-line treatment comprising (a) 7-day omeprazole-clarithromycin-metronidazole and (b) 10-day omeprazole-bismuth-tetracycline-metronidazole. Rescue treatments were as follows: (a) bismuth quadruple therapy; (b) 10-day PPI-clarithromycin-levofloxacin; and (c) 10-day PPI-clarithromycin-rifabutin. Eradication was confirmed by (13)C-urea breath test. Compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. Adverse effects were evaluated by questionnaires. In total, 267 consecutive treatments were included. (1) First-line treatment: Per-protocol and intention-to-treat eradication rates with omeprazole-clarithromycin-metronidazole were 59 % (62/105; 95 % CI 49-62 %) and 57 % (64/112; 95 % CI 47-67 %). Respective figures for PPI-bismuth-tetracycline-metronidazole were 75 % (37/49; 95 % CI 62-89 %) and 74 % (37/50; 95 % CI (61-87 %) (p < 0.05). Compliance with treatment was 94 and 98 %, respectively. Adverse events were reported in 14 % with both regimens (all mild). (2) Second-line treatment: Intention-to-treat eradication rate with omeprazole-clarithromycin-levofloxacin was 64 % both after triple and quadruple failure; compliance was 88-100 %, with 23-29 % adverse effects (all mild). (3) Third-/fourth-line treatment: Intention-to-treat eradication rate with PPI-clarithromycin-rifabutin was 22 %. In allergic to penicillin patients, a first-line treatment with a bismuth-containing quadruple therapy (PPI-bismuth-tetracycline-metronidazole) seems to be a better option than the triple PPI-clarithromycin-metronidazole regimen. A levofloxacin-based regimen (together with a PPI and clarithromycin) represents a second-line rescue option in the presence of penicillin allergy.

  4. Compilation, design tests: Energetic particles Satellite S-3 including design tests for S-3A, S-3B and S-3C

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ledoux, F. N.

    1973-01-01

    A compilation of engineering design tests which were conducted in support of the Energetic Particle Satellite S-3, S-3A, and S-3b programs. The purpose for conducting the tests was to determine the adequacy and reliability of the Energetic Particles Series of satellites designs. The various tests consisted of: (1) moments of inertia, (2) functional reliability, (3) component and structural integrity, (4) initiators and explosives tests, and (5) acceptance tests.

  5. Performance testing of thermoelectric generators including Voyager and LES 8/9 flight results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Garvey, L.; Stapfer, G.

    1979-01-01

    Several thermoelectric generators ranging in output power from 0.5 to 155 W have been completed or are undergoing testing at JPL. These generators represent a wide range of technologies, using Bi2Te3, PbTe and SiGe thermoelectric materials. Several of these generators are of a developmental type, such as HPG S/N2, and others are representative of Transit and Multi-Hundred Watt (MHW) Technology. Representative flight performance data of LES 8/9 and Voyager RTG's are presented and compared with the DEGRA computer program based on the data observed from tests of SiGe couples, modules and MHW generators.

  6. A simplified flight-test method for determining aircraft takeoff performance that includes effects of pilot technique

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Larson, T. J.; Schweikhard, W. G.

    1974-01-01

    A method for evaluating aircraft takeoff performance from brake release to air-phase height that requires fewer tests than conventionally required is evaluated with data for the XB-70 airplane. The method defines the effects of pilot technique on takeoff performance quantitatively, including the decrease in acceleration from drag due to lift. For a given takeoff weight and throttle setting, a single takeoff provides enough data to establish a standardizing relationship for the distance from brake release to any point where velocity is appropriate to rotation. The lower rotation rates penalized takeoff performance in terms of ground roll distance; the lowest observed rotation rate required a ground roll distance that was 19 percent longer than the highest. Rotations at the minimum rate also resulted in lift-off velocities that were approximately 5 knots lower than the highest rotation rate at any given lift-off distance.

  7. Cost-effectiveness analysis of universal noninvasive testing for post-treatment confirmation of Helicobacter pylori eradication and the impact of patient adherence.

    PubMed

    Boklage, Susan H; Mangel, Allen W; Ramamohan, Varun; Mladsi, Deirdre; Wang, Tao

    2016-01-01

    The treatment failure rate for Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy is ~20% due to poor patient compliance and increased antibiotic resistance. This analysis assessed the cost-effectiveness of universal post-treatment testing to confirm eradication of H. pylori infection in adults. Decision-analytic models evaluated the cost-effectiveness of universal post-treatment testing (urea breath test [UBT] or monoclonal fecal antigen test [mFAT]) vs no testing (Model 1), and UBT vs mFAT after adjusting for patient adherence to testing (Model 2) in adults who previously received first-line antimicrobial therapy. Patients testing positive received second-line quadruple therapy; no further action was taken for those testing negative or with no testing (Model 1) or for those nonadherent to testing (Model 2). In addition to testing costs, excess lifetime costs and reduced quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) due to continuing H. pylori infection were considered in the model. Expected total costs per patient were higher for post-treatment testing (UBT: US$325.76; mFAT: US$242.12) vs no testing (US$182.41) in Model 1 and for UBT (US$336.75) vs mFAT (US$326.24) in Model 2. Expected QALYs gained per patient were 0.71 and 0.72 for UBT and mFAT, respectively, vs no testing (Model 1), and the same was 0.37 for UBT vs mFAT (Model 2). The estimated incremental costs per QALY gained for post-treatment testing vs no testing were US$82.90-US$202.45 and, after adjusting for adherence, US$28.13 for UBT vs mFAT. Universal post-treatment testing was found to be cost-effective for confirming eradication of H. pylori infection following first-line therapy. Better adherence to UBT relative to mFAT was the key to its cost-effectiveness.

  8. European and Mexican vs US diagnostic extracts of Bermuda grass and cat in skin testing.

    PubMed

    Larenas-Linnemann, Désirée; Cruz, Alfredo Arias; Gutierrez, Isabel Rojo; Rodriguez, Pablo; Shah-Hosseini, Kijawasch; Michels, Alexandra; Mösges, Ralph

    2011-05-01

    Laboratory testing of various diagnostic extracts has shown lower potencies for several European and Mexican extracts relative to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reference (10,000 BAU/mL). Quantitative skin prick testing (QSPT) with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extracts have previously shown a similar picture. To compare European and Mexican Bermuda grass (BG) and cat diagnostic extracts against an FDA-validated extract using QSPT. Six diagnostic BG and cat extracts (1 reference FDA extract, 3 European extracts, 1 imported nonstandardized extract from the United States, and 1 Mexican extract) were tested with quadruplicate QSPT, as a concentrate and as 2 serial 2-fold dilutions, in cat and BG allergic individuals. BG showed good dose response in wheal size for the concentrate (1:2-1:4 dilutions; steep part of the curve). Cat showed poorer dose response. The Wilcoxon test for linked random samples was used to investigate whether the distribution of the reference differed from each of the test extracts to a statistically significant degree (2-sided asymptotic significance, α = .05). All BG and 2 cat extracts were statistically less potent than the 10,000 BAU/mL US reference. European BG extracts were 7,700, 4,100, and 1,600 BAU/mL, and cat extracts were 12,500, 4,400, and 5,100 BAU/mL. The potency of some diagnostic extracts of BG and cat used in Europe, Mexico, and the United States differs, with the US extracts being generally more potent. On the basis of provocation tests, optimal diagnostic concentrations should be determined. Similar comparisons using other manufacturers and therapeutic extracts might be interesting. Copyright © 2011 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Detailed analysis of the supermarket task included on the Japanese version of the Rapid Dementia Screening Test.

    PubMed

    Moriyama, Yasushi; Yoshino, Aihide; Muramatsu, Taro; Mimura, Masaru

    2017-05-01

    The supermarket task, which is included in the Japanese version of the Rapid Dementia Screening Test, requires the quick (1 min) generation of words for things that can be bought in a supermarket. Cluster size and switches are investigated during this task. We investigated how the severity of dementia related to cluster size and switches on the supermarket task in patients with Alzheimer's disease. We administered the Japanese version of the Rapid Dementia Screening Test to 250 patients with very mild to severe Alzheimer's disease and to 49 healthy volunteers. Patients had Mini-Mental State Examination scores from 12 to 26 and Clinical Dementia Rating scale scores from 0.5 to 3. Patients were divided into four groups based on their Clinical Dementia Rating score (0.5, 1, 2, 3). We performed statistical analyses between the four groups and control subjects based on cluster size and switch scores on the supermarket task. The score for cluster size and switches deteriorated according to the severity of dementia. Moreover, for subjects with a Clinical Dementia Rating score of 0.5, cluster size was impaired, but switches were intact. Our findings indicate that the scores for cluster size and switches on the supermarket task may be useful for detecting the severity of symptoms of dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease. © 2016 The Authors. Psychogeriatrics © 2016 Japanese Psychogeriatric Society.

  10. Effects of transients in LIGO suspensions on searches for gravitational waves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Walker, M.; Abbott, T. D.; Aston, S. M.; González, G.; Macleod, D. M.; McIver, J.; Abbott, B. P.; Abbott, R.; Adams, C.; Adhikari, R. X.; Anderson, S. B.; Ananyeva, A.; Appert, S.; Arai, K.; Ballmer, S. W.; Barker, D.; Barr, B.; Barsotti, L.; Bartlett, J.; Bartos, I.; Batch, J. C.; Bell, A. S.; Betzwieser, J.; Billingsley, G.; Birch, J.; Biscans, S.; Biwer, C.; Blair, C. D.; Bork, R.; Brooks, A. F.; Ciani, G.; Clara, F.; Countryman, S. T.; Cowart, M. J.; Coyne, D. C.; Cumming, A.; Cunningham, L.; Danzmann, K.; Da Silva Costa, C. F.; Daw, E. J.; DeBra, D.; DeRosa, R. T.; DeSalvo, R.; Dooley, K. L.; Doravari, S.; Driggers, J. C.; Dwyer, S. E.; Effler, A.; Etzel, T.; Evans, M.; Evans, T. M.; Factourovich, M.; Fair, H.; Fernández Galiana, A.; Fisher, R. P.; Fritschel, P.; Frolov, V. V.; Fulda, P.; Fyffe, M.; Giaime, J. A.; Giardina, K. D.; Goetz, E.; Goetz, R.; Gras, S.; Gray, C.; Grote, H.; Gushwa, K. E.; Gustafson, E. K.; Gustafson, R.; Hall, E. D.; Hammond, G.; Hanks, J.; Hanson, J.; Hardwick, T.; Harry, G. M.; Heintze, M. C.; Heptonstall, A. W.; Hough, J.; Izumi, K.; Jones, R.; Kandhasamy, S.; Karki, S.; Kasprzack, M.; Kaufer, S.; Kawabe, K.; Kijbunchoo, N.; King, E. J.; King, P. J.; Kissel, J. S.; Korth, W. Z.; Kuehn, G.; Landry, M.; Lantz, B.; Lockerbie, N. A.; Lormand, M.; Lundgren, A. P.; MacInnis, M.; Márka, S.; Márka, Z.; Markosyan, A. S.; Maros, E.; Martin, I. W.; Martynov, D. V.; Mason, K.; Massinger, T. J.; Matichard, F.; Mavalvala, N.; McCarthy, R.; McClelland, D. E.; McCormick, S.; McIntyre, G.; Mendell, G.; Merilh, E. L.; Meyers, P. M.; Miller, J.; Mittleman, R.; Moreno, G.; Mueller, G.; Mullavey, A.; Munch, J.; Nuttall, L. K.; Oberling, J.; Oliver, M.; Oppermann, P.; Oram, Richard J.; O'Reilly, B.; Ottaway, D. J.; Overmier, H.; Palamos, J. R.; Paris, H. R.; Parker, W.; Pele, A.; Penn, S.; Phelps, M.; Pierro, V.; Pinto, I.; Principe, M.; Prokhorov, L. G.; Puncken, O.; Quetschke, V.; Quintero, E. A.; Raab, F. J.; Radkins, H.; Raffai, P.; Reid, S.; Reitze, D. H.; Robertson, N. A.; Rollins, J. G.; Roma, V. J.; Romie, J. H.; Rowan, S.; Ryan, K.; Sadecki, T.; Sanchez, E. J.; Sandberg, V.; Savage, R. L.; Schofield, R. M. S.; Sellers, D.; Shaddock, D. A.; Shaffer, T. J.; Shapiro, B.; Shawhan, P.; Shoemaker, D. H.; Sigg, D.; Slagmolen, B. J. J.; Smith, B.; Smith, J. R.; Sorazu, B.; Staley, A.; Strain, K. A.; Tanner, D. B.; Taylor, R.; Thomas, M.; Thomas, P.; Thorne, K. A.; Thrane, E.; Torrie, C. I.; Traylor, G.; Tuyenbayev, D.; Vajente, G.; Valdes, G.; van Veggel, A. A.; Vecchio, A.; Veitch, P. J.; Venkateswara, K.; Vo, T.; Vorvick, C.; Ward, R. L.; Warner, J.; Weaver, B.; Weiss, R.; Weßels, P.; Willke, B.; Wipf, C. C.; Worden, J.; Wu, G.; Yamamoto, H.; Yancey, C. C.; Yu, Hang; Yu, Haocun; Zhang, L.; Zucker, M. E.; Zweizig, J.

    2017-12-01

    This paper presents an analysis of the transient behavior of the Advanced LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) suspensions used to seismically isolate the optics. We have characterized the transients in the longitudinal motion of the quadruple suspensions during Advanced LIGO's first observing run. Propagation of transients between stages is consistent with modeled transfer functions, such that transient motion originating at the top of the suspension chain is significantly reduced in amplitude at the test mass. We find that there are transients seen by the longitudinal motion monitors of quadruple suspensions, but they are not significantly correlated with transient motion above the noise floor in the gravitational wave strain data, and therefore do not present a dominant source of background noise in the searches for transient gravitational wave signals. Using the suspension transfer functions, we compared the transients in a week of gravitational wave strain data with transients from a quadruple suspension. Of the strain transients between 10 and 60 Hz, 84% are loud enough that they would have appeared above the sensor noise in the top stage quadruple suspension monitors if they had originated at that stage at the same frequencies. We find no significant temporal correlation with the suspension transients in that stage, so we can rule out suspension motion originating at the top stage as the cause of those transients. However, only 3.2% of the gravitational wave strain transients are loud enough that they would have been seen by the second stage suspension sensors, and none of them are above the sensor noise levels of the penultimate stage. Therefore, we cannot eliminate the possibility of transient noise in the detectors originating in the intermediate stages of the suspension below the sensing noise.

  11. Test driving ToxCast: endocrine profiling for1858 chemicals included in phase II

    EPA Science Inventory

    Introduction: Identifying chemicals to test for potential endocrine disruption beyond those already implicated in the peer-reviewed literature is a challenge. This review is intended to help by summarizing findings from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ToxCast™ high th...

  12. High-Speed Wind-Tunnel Tests of a Model of the Lockheed YP-80A Airplane Including Correlation with Flight Tests and Tests of Dive-Recovery Flaps

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cleary, Joseph W.; Gray, Lyle J.

    1947-01-01

    This report contains the results of tests of a 1/3-scale model of the Lockheed YP-90A "Shooting Star" airplane and a comparison of drag, maximum lift coefficient, and elevator angle required for level flight as measured in the wind tunnel and in flight. Included in the report are the general aerodynamic characteristics of the model and of two types of dive-recovery flaps, one at several positions along the chord on the lower surface of the wing and the other on the lower surface of the fuselage. The results show good agreement between the flight and wind-tunnel measurements at all Mach numbers. The results indicate that the YP-80A is controllable in pitch by the elevators to a Mach number of at least 0.85. The fuselage dive-recovery flaps are effective for producing a climbing moment and increasing the drag at Mach numbers up to at least 0.8. The wing dive-recovery flaps are most effective for producing a climbing moment at 0.75 Mach number. At 0.85 Mach number, their effectiveness is approximately 50 percent of the maximum. The optimum position for the wing dive-recovery flaps to produce a climbing moment is at approximately 35 percent of the chord.

  13. The impact of testing accommodations on MCAT scores: descriptive results.

    PubMed

    Julian, Ellen R; Ingersoll, Deborah J; Etienne, Patricia M; Hilger, Anthony E

    2004-04-01

    Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) examinees with disabilities who receive accommodations receive flagged scores indicating nonstandard administration. This report compares MCAT examinees who received accommodations and their performances with standard examinees. Aggregate history records of all 1994-2000 MCAT examinees were identified as flagged (2,401) or standard (297,880), then further sorted by race/ethnicity (broadly identified as underrepresented minority and non-URM, at the time of testing) and gender. Those with flagged scores were also classified by disability (LD = learning disability, ADHD = attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, LD/ADHD = learning disability and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Other = other disability) and type of accommodation. Mean MCAT scores were calculated for all groups. A group of 866 examinees took the MCAT first as a standard administration and subsequently with accommodations. In a separate analysis, their two sets of scores were compared. Less than 1% of examinees (2,401) had accommodations; of these, 55% were LD, 17% ADHD, 5% LD/ADHD, and 23% Other. Extended time was the most frequently provided accommodation. Mean flagged scores slightly exceeded mean standard scores on all MCAT sections. Examinees who retook the MCAT with accommodations after a standard administration increased their scores by six points, quadrupling the average gain Standard-Standard retest cohort from another study. The small but statistically significant different higher flagged scores may reflect either appropriate compensation or overly generous accommodations. Extended time had a positive impact on the scores of those who retested with this accommodation. The validity the flagged MCAT in predicting success in medical school is not known, and further investigation is underway.

  14. Identification and reduction of image artifacts in non-contrast-enhanced velocity-selective peripheral angiography at 3T.

    PubMed

    Shin, Taehoon; Qin, Qin; Park, Jang-Yeon; Crawford, Robert S; Rajagopalan, Sanjay

    2016-08-01

    To identify and reduce image artifacts in non-contrast-enhanced velocity-selective (VS) magnetization-prepared peripheral MR angiography (MRA) at 3T. To avoid signal loss in the arteries, double and quadruple refocused VS excitation pulse sequences were designed that were robust to a wide range of B0 and B1 offset. To suppress stripe artifact and background signal variation, we successively applied two VS preparations with excitation profiles shifted by half the period of the stripes. VS-MRA using single, double, and quadruple refocused VS preparations was tested in healthy subjects and a patient. In the regions of large B0 and B1 offsets, arterial signal loss was yielded by single refocused VS preparation, but was avoided with double or quadruple refocused preparations. Compared with single VS preparation, the two consecutive preparations with shifted excitation profiles substantially reduced the stripe artifact and background signal variation, as demonstrated by increased mean and decreased standard deviation of relative contrast-to-noise ratio. The proposed VS-MRA identified multilevel disease in the femoral arteries of the patient, as validated by digital subtraction angiography. Two multiple refocused VS magnetization preparations with shifted excitation profiles yield artifact-free peripheral angiograms at 3T. Magn Reson Med 76:466-477, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Geotechnical Tests on Asteroid Simulant Orgueil

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Garcia, Alexander D'marco

    2017-01-01

    In the last 100 years, the global population has more than quadrupled to over seven billion people. At the same time, the demand for food and standard of living has been increasing which has amplified the global water use by nearly eight times from approximately 500 to 4000 cu km per yr from 1900 to 2010. With the increasing concern to sustain the growing population on Earth it is necessary to seek other approaches to ensure that our planet will have resources for generations to come. In recent years, the advancement of space travel and technology has allowed the idea of mining asteroids with resources closer to becoming a reality. During the duration of the internship at NASA Kennedy Space Center, several geotechnical tests were conducted on BP-1 lunar simulant and asteroid simulant Orgueil. The tests that were conducted on BP-1 was to practice utilizing the equipment that will be used on the asteroid simulant and the data from those tests will be omitted from report. Understanding the soil mechanics of asteroid simulant Orgueil will help provide basis for future technological advances and prepare scientists for the conditions they may encounter when mining asteroids becomes reality in the distant future. Distinct tests were conducted to determine grain size distribution, unconsolidated density, and maximum density. Once the basic properties are known, the asteroid simulant will be altered to different levels of compaction using a vibrator table to see how compaction affects the density. After different intervals of vibration compaction, a miniature vane shear test will be conducted. Laboratory vane shear testing is a reliable tool to investigate strength anisotropy in the vertical and horizontal directions of a very soft to stiff saturated fine-grained clayey soil. This test will provide us with a rapid determination of the shear strength on the undisturbed compacted regolith. The results of these tests will shed light on how much torque is necessary to drill

  16. Comparative study on intestinal metabolism and absorption in vivo of ginsenosides in sulphur-fumigated and non-fumigated ginseng by ultra performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry based chemical profiling approach.

    PubMed

    Zhu, He; Shen, Hong; Xu, Jun; Xu, Jin-Di; Zhu, Ling-Ying; Wu, Jie; Chen, Hu-Biao; Li, Song-Lin

    2015-04-01

    Our previous study indicated that sulphur-fumigation of ginseng in post-harvest handling processes could induce chemical transformation of ginsenosides to generate multiple ginsenoside sulphur derivatives. In this study, the influence of sulphur-fumigation on intestinal metabolism and absorption in vivo of ginsenosides in ginseng was sequentially studied. The intestinal metabolic and absorbed profiles of ginsenosides in rats after intra-gastric (i.g.) administration of sulphur-fumigated ginseng (SFG) and non-fumigated ginseng (NFG) were comparatively characterized by a newly established ultra performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS) with electrospray ionization negative (ESI-) mode. A novel strategy based on the characteristic product ions and fragmentation pathways of different types of aglycones (saponin skeletons) and glycosyl moieties was proposed and successfully applied to rapid structural identification of ginsenoside sulphur derivatives and relevant metabolites. In total, 18 ginsenoside sulphur derivatives and 26 ginsenoside sulphur derivative metabolites in the faeces together with six ginsenoside sulphur derivatives in the plasma were identified in the SFG-administrated group but not in the NFG-administrated group. The results clearly demonstrated that the intestinal metabolic and absorbed profiles of ginsenosides in sulphur-fumigated and non-fumigated ginseng were quite different, which inspired that sulphur-fumigation of ginseng should not be recommended before the bioactivity and toxicity of the ginsenoside sulphur derivatives were systematically evaluated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  17. Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA) Battery Test Operations User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Salinas, Michael

    2012-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the ESTA Battery Test Operations. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  18. Nuclear Rocket Test Facility Decommissioning Including Controlled Explosive Demolition of a Neutron-Activated Shield Wall

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

    Michael Kruzic

    2007-09-01

    Located in Area 25 of the Nevada Test Site, the Test Cell A Facility was used in the 1960s for the testing of nuclear rocket engines, as part of the Nuclear Rocket Development Program. The facility was decontaminated and decommissioned (D&D) in 2005 using the Streamlined Approach For Environmental Restoration (SAFER) process, under the Federal Facilities Agreement and Consent Order (FFACO). Utilities and process piping were verified void of contents, hazardous materials were removed, concrete with removable contamination decontaminated, large sections mechanically demolished, and the remaining five-foot, five-inch thick radiologically-activated reinforced concrete shield wall demolished using open-air controlled explosive demolitionmore » (CED). CED of the shield wall was closely monitored and resulted in no radiological exposure or atmospheric release.« less

  19. Consensus for genes to be included on cancer panel tests offered by UK genetics services: guidelines of the UK Cancer Genetics Group.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Amy; Brady, Angela F; Frayling, Ian M; Hanson, Helen; Tischkowitz, Marc; Turnbull, Clare; Side, Lucy

    2018-04-16

    Genetic testing for hereditary cancer predisposition has evolved rapidly in recent years with the discovery of new genes, but there is much debate over the clinical utility of testing genes for which there are currently limited data regarding the degree of associated cancer risk. To address the discrepancies that have arisen in the provision of these tests across the UK, the UK Cancer Genetics Group facilitated a 1-day workshop with representation from the majority of National Health Service (NHS) clinical genetics services. Using a preworkshop survey followed by focused discussion of genes without prior majority agreement for inclusion, we achieved consensus for panels of cancer genes with sufficient evidence for clinical utility, to be adopted by all NHS genetics services. To support consistency in the delivery of these tests and advice given to families across the country, we also developed management proposals for individuals who are found to have pathogenic mutations in these genes. However, we fully acknowledge that the decision regarding what test is most appropriate for an individual family rests with the clinician, and will depend on factors including specific phenotypic features and the family structure. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  20. Formal Functional Test Designs: Bridging the Gap Between Test Requirements and Test Specifications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hops, Jonathan

    1993-01-01

    This presentation describes the testing life cycle, the purpose of the test design phase, and test design methods and gives an example application. Also included is a description of Test Representation Language (TRL), a summary of the language, and an example of an application of TRL. A sample test requirement and sample test design are included.

  1. Antibiotic susceptibility, heteroresistance, and updated treatment strategies in Helicobacter pylori infection.

    PubMed

    Mascellino, Maria Teresa; Porowska, Barbara; De Angelis, Massimiliano; Oliva, Alessandra

    2017-01-01

    In this review, we discuss the problem of antibiotic resistance, heteroresistance, the utility of cultures and antibiotic susceptibility tests in Helicobacter pylori ( Hp ) eradication, as well as the updated treatment strategies for this infection. The prevalence of antibiotic resistance is increasing all over the world, especially for metronidazole and clarithromycin, because of their heavy use in some geographical areas. Heteroresistance (simultaneous presence of both susceptible and resistant strains in different sites of a single stomach) is another important issue, as an isolate could be mistakenly considered susceptible if a single biopsy is used for antimicrobial tests. We also examined literature data regarding eradication success rates of culture-guided and empiric therapies. The empiric therapy and the one based on susceptibility testing, in Hp eradication, may depend on several factors such as concomitant diseases, the number of previous antibiotic treatments, differences in bacterial virulence in individuals with positive or negative cultures, together with local antibiotic resistance patterns in real-world settings. Updated treatment strategies in Hp infection presented in the guidelines of the Toronto Consensus Group (2016) are reported. These suggest to prolong eradication therapy up to 14 days, replacing the old triple therapy with a quadruple therapy based on proton pump inhibitor (PPI), bismuth, metronidazole, and tetracycline for most of the patients, or as an alternative quadruple therapy without bismuth, based on the use of PPI, amoxicillin, metronidazole, and clarithromycin. The new drug vonoprazan, a first-in-class potassium-competitive acid blocker recently approved in Japan, is also considered to be a promising solution for Hp eradication, even for clarithromycin-resistant strains. Furthermore, there is growing interest in finding new therapeutic strategies, such as the development of vaccines or the use of natural resources, including

  2. Quadruple Axis Neutron Computed Tomography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schillinger, Burkhard; Bausenwein, Dominik

    Neutron computed tomography takes more time for a full tomography than X-rays or Synchrotron radiation, because the source intensity is limited. Most neutron imaging detectors have a square field of view, so if tomography of elongated, narrow samples, e.g. fuel rods, sword blades is recorded, much of the detector area is wasted. Using multiple rotation axes, several samples can be placed inside the field of view, and multiple tomographies can be recorded at the same time by later splitting the recorded images into separate tomography data sets. We describe a new multiple-axis setup using four independent miniaturized rotation tables.

  3. Compact Ozone Lidar for Atmospheric Ozone and Aerosol Measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Marcia, Joel; DeYoung, Russell J.

    2007-01-01

    A small compact ozone differential absorption lidar capable of being deployed on a small aircraft or unpiloted atmospheric vehicle (UAV) has been tested. The Ce:LiCAF tunable UV laser is pumped by a quadrupled Nd:YLF laser. Test results on the laser transmitter demonstrated 1.4 W in the IR and 240 mW in the green at 1000 Hz. The receiver consists of three photon-counting channels, which are a far field PMT, a near field UV PMT, and a green PMT. Each channel was tested for their saturation characteristics.

  4. Solar Energy Education. Industrial arts: teacher's guide. Field test edition. [Includes glossary

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

    Not Available

    An instructional aid is presented which integrates the subject of solar energy into the classroom study of industrial arts. This guide for teachers was produced in addition to the student activities book for industrial arts by the USDOE Solar Energy Education. A glossary of solar energy terms is included. (BCS)

  5. Imaging tests in staging and surveillance of non-metastatic breast cancer: changes in routine clinical practice and cost implications.

    PubMed

    De Placido, S; De Angelis, C; Giuliano, M; Pizzi, C; Ruocco, R; Perrone, V; Bruzzese, D; Tommasielli, G; De Laurentiis, M; Cammarota, S; Arpino, G; Arpino, G

    2017-03-14

    Although guidelines do not recommend computerised tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the staging or follow-up of asymptomatic patients with non-metastatic breast cancer, they are often requested in routine clinical practice. The aim of this study was to determine the staging and follow-up patterns, and relative costs in a large population of breast cancer patients living and treated in a Southern Italian region. We analysed the clinical computerised information recorded by 567 primary-care physicians assisting about 650 000 inhabitants in the Campania region. Patients with non-metastatic breast cancer were identified and divided into calendar years from 2001 to 2010. The number of diagnostic tests prescribed per 100 patients (N/Pts) and the mean cost per patient was determined 3 months before diagnosis and up to 1 year after diagnosis. Costs are expressed in constant 2011 euros. We identified 4680 newly diagnosed cases of asymptomatic non-metastatic breast cancer. N/Pts increased significantly (P<0.0001) from 2001 to 2010. The mean number of prescribed mammograms, bone scans, abdominal ultrasound and chest X-rays ('routine tests'), and costs was unchanged. However, the number of CT, PET scans and MRI ('new tests')prescriptions almost quadrupled and the mean cost per patient related to these procedures significantly increased from [euro ]357 in 2001 to [euro ]830 in 2010 (P<0.0001). New test prescriptions and relative costs significantly and steadily increased throughout the study period. At present there is no evidence that the delivery of new tests to asymptomatic patients improves breast cancer outcome. Well-designed clinical trials are urgently needed to shed light on the impact of these tests on clinical outcome and overall survival.

  6. Arkansas Action Plan for Literacy Enhancement. Report of the Governor's Commission on Adult Literacy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arkansas State Office of the Governor, Little Rock.

    This document contains a mission statement, goals, and strategies and recommendations prepared by the Arkansas Governor's Commission on Adult Literacy. Goals include increasing from approximately 29,000 to 100,000 the number of adult learners engaged in pursuing at least one higher functional level of literacy by 1992-93 and quadrupling the…

  7. The BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism increases granulomatous disease susceptibility: A meta-analysis including FPRP test of 8710 participants.

    PubMed

    Tong, Xiang; Ma, Yao; Niu, Xundong; Yan, Zhipeng; Liu, Sitong; Peng, Bo; Peng, Shifeng; Fan, Hong

    2016-07-01

    The butyrophilin-like 2 (BTNL2) G16071A gene polymorphism has been implicated in the susceptibility to granulomatous diseases, but the results were inconclusive. The objective of the current study was to precisely explore the relationship between BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism and granulomatous disease susceptibility by the meta-analysis including false-positive report probability (FPRP) test. A systematic literature search in the PubMed, Embase, and Wanfang databases, China National Knowledge Internet, and commercial Internet search engines was conducted to identify studies published up to April 1, 2016. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the effect size. Statistical analysis was conducted using the STATA 12.0 software and FPRP test sheet. In total, all 4324 cases and 4386 controls from 14 eligible studies were included in the current meta-analysis. By the overall meta-analysis, we found a significant association between BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism and granulomatous disease susceptibility (A vs G: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.07-1.45, P = 0.005). The meta-regression analyses showed that a large proportion of the between-study heterogeneity was significantly attributed to the ethnicity (A vs G, P = 0.013) and the types of granulomatous diseases (A vs G, P = 0.002). By the subgroup meta-analysis, the BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism was associated with granulomatous disease susceptibility in Caucasians (A vs G: OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.18-1.58, P < 0.001). Moreover, a significant relationship between the BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism and sarcoidosis susceptibility (A vs G: OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.39-1.66, P < 0.001) was found. However, to avoid the "false-positive report," we further investigated the significant associations observed in the present meta-analysis by the FPRP test. Interestingly, the results of FPRP test indicated that the BTNL2 G16071A gene polymorphism was truly associated

  8. Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA) Electrical Power Systems Test Operations: User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Salinas, Michael J.

    2012-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the ESTA Electrical Power Systems Test Laboratory. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  9. 40 CFR 725.355 - Information to be included in the TME application.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... or the environment as a result of the test marketing. The TME application must be in writing and must... the microorganism as a result of test marketing, including information regarding duration and route of... for Test Marketing § 725.355 Information to be included in the TME application. (a) To review a TME...

  10. Antenna Test Facility (ATF): User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lin, Greg

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the ATF. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  11. Structures Test Laboratory (STL). User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zipay, John J.

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the STL. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  12. Screening for Specific Language Impairment in Preschool Children: Evaluating a Screening Procedure Including the Token Test

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Willinger, Ulrike; Schmoeger, Michaela; Deckert, Matthias; Eisenwort, Brigitte; Loader, Benjamin; Hofmair, Annemarie; Auff, Eduard

    2017-01-01

    Specific language impairment (SLI) comprises impairments in receptive and/or expressive language. Aim of this study was to evaluate a screening for SLI. 61 children with SLI (SLI-children, age-range 4-6 years) and 61 matched typically developing controls were tested for receptive language ability (Token Test-TT) and for intelligence (Wechsler…

  13. ASASSN-18gq: Discovery of A Low-Luminosity Transient Towards Very Nearby ( 3.4 Mpc) Galaxy ESO 325- G?011

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nicholls, B.; Brimacombe, J.; Vallely, P.; Dong, Subo; Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Brown, J. S.; Shields, J.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Bersier, D.; Bose, S.; Chen, Ping; Stritzinger, M.; Holmbo, S.

    2018-04-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Payne-Gaposchkin" telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, and the quadruple 14-cm "Cassius" and "Paczynski" telescopes in Cerro Tololo, Chile, we discovered a new transient source, most likely a supernova, in the low surface brightness galaxy ESO 325- G?011.

  14. 40 CFR 59.623 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ...) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls within the required ranges specified in... application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the requirements... PRODUCTS Control of Evaporative Emissions From New and In-Use Portable Fuel Containers Certifying Emission...

  15. 40 CFR 59.623 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls within the required ranges specified in... application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the requirements... PRODUCTS Control of Evaporative Emissions From New and In-Use Portable Fuel Containers Certifying Emission...

  16. 40 CFR 59.623 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls within the required ranges specified in... application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the requirements... PRODUCTS Control of Evaporative Emissions From New and In-Use Portable Fuel Containers Certifying Emission...

  17. 40 CFR 59.623 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ...) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls within the required ranges specified in... application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the requirements... PRODUCTS Control of Evaporative Emissions From New and In-Use Portable Fuel Containers Certifying Emission...

  18. 40 CFR 59.623 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ...) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls within the required ranges specified in... application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the requirements... PRODUCTS Control of Evaporative Emissions From New and In-Use Portable Fuel Containers Certifying Emission...

  19. Second-line rescue therapy with levofloxacin after H. pylori treatment failure: a Spanish multicenter study of 300 patients.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Bermejo, Fernando; Castro-Fernández, Manuel; Pérez-Aisa, Angeles; Fernández-Bermejo, Miguel; Tomas, Albert; Barrio, José; Bory, Felipe; Almela, Pedro; Sánchez-Pobre, Pilar; Cosme, Angel; Ortiz, Vicente; Niño, Pilar; Khorrami, Sam; Benito, Luis-Miguel; Carneros, Jose-Antonio; Lamas, Eloisa; Modolell, Inés; Franco, Alejandro; Ortuño, Juan; Rodrigo, Luis; García-Durán, Fernando; O'Callaghan, Elena; Ponce, Julio; Valer, María-Paz; Calvet, Xavier

    2008-01-01

    Quadruple therapy is generally recommended as second-line therapy after Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication failure. However, this regimen requires the administration of four drugs with a complex scheme, is associated with a relatively high incidence of adverse effects, and bismuth salts are not available worldwide anymore. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a triple second-line levofloxacin-based regimen in patients with H. pylori eradication failure. Prospective multicenter study. in whom a first treatment with proton pump inhibitor-clarithromycin-amoxicillin had failed. A second eradication regimen with levofloxacin (500 mg b.i.d.), amoxicillin (1 g b.i.d.), and omeprazole (20 mg b.i.d.) was prescribed for 10 days. Eradication was confirmed with (13)C-urea breath test 4-8 wk after therapy. Compliance with therapy was determined from the interview and the recovery of empty envelopes of medications. Incidence of adverse effects was evaluated by means of a specific questionnaire. Three hundred consecutive patients were included. Mean age was 48 yr, 47% were male, 38% had peptic ulcer, and 62% functional dyspepsia. Almost all (97%) patients took all the medications correctly. Per-protocol and intention-to-treat eradication rates were 81% (95% CI 77-86%) and 77% (73-82%). Adverse effects were reported in 22% of the patients, mainly including nausea (8%), metallic taste (5%), abdominal pain (3%), and myalgias (3%); none of them were severe. Ten-day levofloxacin-based rescue therapy constitutes an encouraging second-line strategy, representing an alternative to quadruple therapy in patients with previous proton pump inhibitor-clarithromycin-amoxicillin failure, being simple and safe.

  20. 40 CFR 1060.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... procedures you used (see § 1060.501). (d) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... certification for gasoline or some other fuel type. List each distinguishable configuration in the emission...

  1. 40 CFR 1060.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... procedures you used (see § 1060.501). (d) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... certification for gasoline or some other fuel type. List each distinguishable configuration in the emission...

  2. 40 CFR 1060.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... procedures you used (see § 1060.501). (d) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... certification for gasoline or some other fuel type. List each distinguishable configuration in the emission...

  3. 40 CFR 1060.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... procedures you used (see § 1060.501). (d) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... certification for gasoline or some other fuel type. List each distinguishable configuration in the emission...

  4. 40 CFR 1060.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... procedures you used (see § 1060.501). (d) List the specifications of the test fuel to show that it falls... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... certification for gasoline or some other fuel type. List each distinguishable configuration in the emission...

  5. Specialized Environmental Chamber Test Complex: User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Montz, Michael E.

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the Specialized Environmental Test Complex. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  6. Radiant Heat Test Facility (RHTF): User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    DelPapa, Steven

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the RHTF. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non- NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  7. Electronic Systems Test Laboratory (ESTL) User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Robinson, Neil

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the ESTL. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  8. Theoretical study on the low-lying excited states of the phosphorus monoiodide (PI) including the spin-orbit coupling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Xiaomei; Liu, Xiaoting; Liang, Guiying; Li, Rui; Xu, Haifeng; Yan, Bing

    2016-01-01

    The potential energy curves (PECs) of the 22 Λ-S states of the phosphorus monoiodide (PI) molecule have been calculated at the level of MRCI+Q method with correlation-consistent quadruple-ζ quality basis set. The spectroscopic constants of the bound states are determined, which well reproduce the available measurements. The metastable a1Δ state has been reported for the first time, which lies between the X3Σ- and b1Σ+ states and have much deeper well than the ground state. The R-dependent spin-orbit (SO) matrix elements are calculated with the full-electron Breit-Pauli operator. Based on the SO matrix elements, the perturbations that the 23Π state may suffer from are analyzed in detail. The SOC effect makes the original Λ-S states split into 51 Ω states. In the zero-field splitting of the ground state X3Σ-, the spin-spin coupling contribution (2.23 cm-1) is found to be much smaller compared to the spin-orbit coupling contribution (50 cm-1). The avoided crossings between the Ω states lead to much shallower potential wells and the change of dissociation relationships of the states. The Ω-state wavefunctions are analyzed depending on their Λ-S compositions, showing the strong interactions among several quasidegenerate Λ-S states of the same total SO symmetry. The transition properties including electric dipole (E1), magnetic dipole (M1), and electric quadrupole (E2) transition moments (TMs), the Franck-Condon factors, the transition probabilities and the radiative lifetimes are computed for the transitions between Ω components of a1Δ and b1Σ+ states and ground state. The transition probabilities induced by the E1, E2, and M1 transitions are evaluated. The E2 makes little effect on transition probabilities. In contrast, the E1 transition makes the main contribution to the transition probability and the M1 transition also brings the influence that cannot be neglected. Finally, the radiative lifetimes are determined with the transition moments including E

  9. ASAS-SN Discovery of an Unprecedented >2 Magnitude Optical Flare from QSO B2 1420+32

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stanek, K. Z.; Kochanek, C. S.; Thompson, T. A.; Shappee, B. J.; Holoien, T. W.-S.; Prieto, J. L.; Dong, Subo; Dai, X.

    2017-12-01

    During the ongoing All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN, Shappee et al. 2014), using data from the quadruple 14-cm "Brutus" telescope in Haleakala, Hawaii, and the quadruple 14-cm "Leavitt" telescope in Fort Davis, Texas, we have discovered an unprecedented, factor of 10 optical brightening of QSO B2 1420+32 (SDSS J142230.37+322310.4, z=0.68).

  10. Drop and Flight Tests on NY-2 Landing Gears Including Measurements of Vertical Velocities at Landing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Peck, W D; Beard, A P

    1933-01-01

    This investigation was conducted to obtain quantitative information on the effectiveness of three landing gears for the NY-2 (consolidated training) airplane. The investigation consisted of static, drop, and flight tests on landing gears of the oleo-rubber-disk and the mercury rubber-chord types, and flight tests only on a landing gear of the conventional split-axle rubber-cord type. The results show that the oleo gear is the most effective of the three landing gears in minimizing impact forces and in dissipating the energy taken.

  11. Track/train dynamics test report transfer function test. Volume 1: Test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vigil, R. A.

    1975-01-01

    A description is presented of the transfer function test performed on an open hopper freight car loaded with 80 tons of coal. Test data and a post-test update of the requirements document and test procedure are presented. Included are a statement of the test objective, a description of the test configurations, test facilities, test methods, data acquisition/reduction operations, and a chronological test summary. An index to the data for the three test configurations (X, Y, and Z-axis tests) is presented along with test sequence, run number, test reference, and input parameters.

  12. 40 CFR 1037.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... basic parameters of the vehicle's design and emission controls. List the fuel type on which your vehicles are designed to operate (for example, ultra low-sulfur diesel fuel). (b) Explain how the emission...

  13. 40 CFR 1037.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... the application (including the test procedures, test parameters, and test fuels) to show you meet the... basic parameters of the vehicle's design and emission controls. List the fuel type on which your vehicles are designed to operate (for example, ultra low-sulfur diesel fuel). (b) Explain how the emission...

  14. [Cost-effectiveness analysis of 2 strategies of Helicobacter pylori eradication: results of a prospective and randomized study in primary care].

    PubMed

    Gomollón, F; Valdepérez, J; Garuz, R; Fuentes, J; Barrera, F; Malo, J; Tirado, M; Simón, M A

    2000-06-03

    To analyze cost-effectiveness of two different strategies to treat H. pylori infection in peptic ulcer in the primary care setting. Consecutive patients with endoscopic diagnosis of peptic ulcer were randomized to one of two strategies: a) treatment during 7 days with omeprazole, tetracycline, metronidazole and bismuth subcitrate ("quadruple" therapy) and if failure second-line treatment with omeprazole, amoxycillin and clarithromycin during 7 days (OCA7), and b) initial treatment with OCA7 and if failure treatment with "quadruple therapy". End point was eradication 8 weeks after last treatment dose. Direct and indirect costs were estimated (euros, 1997) and a cost-effectiveness analysis using a decision-tree model was undertaken after real clinical data. 95% confidence intervals are given. After screening 255 patients, 97 were finally included. 48 patients were given strategy a and 49 strategy b. Eradication was obtained (intention-to-treat) in 72.9% (CI 95%: 58.2-84.7) in group a versus 91.8% (CI 95%: 80.4-97.7) (p < 0.05) in group b. Mean cost per case treated was lower in group a (237 versus 268 euros) but cost per case eradicated was lower in group b (320 versus 296 euros). The cost was primarily determined by efficacy. Treatment with OCA7 followed by rescue with "quadruple" therapy if failure is more efficient in our area that the inverse strategy. Efficiency is mostly determined by efficacy.

  15. I + (H2O)2 → HI + (H2O)OH Forward and Reverse Reactions. CCSD(T) Studies Including Spin-Orbit Coupling.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hui; Li, Guoliang; Li, Qian-Shu; Xie, Yaoming; Schaefer, Henry F

    2016-03-03

    The potential energy profile for the atomic iodine plus water dimer reaction I + (H2O)2 → HI + (H2O)OH has been explored using the "Gold Standard" CCSD(T) method with quadruple-ζ correlation-consistent basis sets. The corresponding information for the reverse reaction HI + (H2O)OH → I + (H2O)2 is also derived. Both zero-point vibrational energies (ZPVEs) and spin-orbit (SO) coupling are considered, and these notably alter the classical energetics. On the basis of the CCSD(T)/cc-pVQZ-PP results, including ZPVE and SO coupling, the forward reaction is found to be endothermic by 47.4 kcal/mol, implying a significant exothermicity for the reverse reaction. The entrance complex I···(H2O)2 is bound by 1.8 kcal/mol, and this dissociation energy is significantly affected by SO coupling. The reaction barrier lies 45.1 kcal/mol higher than the reactants. The exit complex HI···(H2O)OH is bound by 3.0 kcal/mol relative to the asymptotic limit. At every level of theory, the reverse reaction HI + (H2O)OH → I + (H2O)2 proceeds without a barrier. Compared with the analogous water monomer reaction I + H2O → HI + OH, the additional water molecule reduces the relative energies of the entrance stationary point, transition state, and exit complex by 3-5 kcal/mol. The I + (H2O)2 reaction is related to the valence isoelectronic bromine and chlorine reactions but is distinctly different from the F + (H2O)2 system.

  16. Vibration and Acoustic Test Facility (VATF): User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fantasia, Peter M.

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the VATF. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  17. Development of a pulsed UV laser system for laser-desorption mass spectrometry on Mars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kolleck, C.; Büttner, A.; Ernst, M.; Hülsenbusch, T.; Lang, T.; Marwah, R.; Mebben, S.; Priehs, M.; Kracht, D.; Neumann, J.

    2017-11-01

    A near-flight prototype of a pulsed UV laser has been developed for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) of the ExoMars mission. The laser head is based on a Nd:YAG oscillator with subsequent frequency quadrupling and emits nanosecond pulses with an energy of > 300 μJ at a wavelength of 266 nm. The design is compact and lightweight. Tests in relevant environment regarding temperature, vibration, and radiation have been performed.

  18. Self-Healing Gelatin Hydrogels Cross-Linked by Combining Multiple Hydrogen Bonding and Ionic Coordination.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Guangzhao; Lv, Lei; Deng, Yonghong; Wang, Chaoyang

    2017-06-01

    Self-healing hydrogels have been studied by many researchers via multiple cross-linking approaches including physical and chemical interactions. It is an interesting project in multifunctional hydrogel exploration that a water soluble polymer matrix is cross-linked by combining the ionic coordination and the multiple hydrogen bonds to fabricate self-healing hydrogels with injectable property. This study introduces a general procedure of preparing the hydrogels (termed gelatin-UPy-Fe) cross-linked by both ionic coordination of Fe 3+ and carboxyl group from the gelatin and the quadruple hydrogen bonding interaction from the ureido-pyrimidinone (UPy) dimers. The gelatin-UPy-Fe hydrogels possess an excellent self-healing property. The effects of the ionic coordination of Fe 3+ and quadruple hydrogen bonding of UPy on the formation and mechanical behavior of the prepared hydrogels are investigated. In vitro drug release of the gelatin-UPy-Fe hydrogels is also observed, giving an intriguing glimpse into possible biological applications. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Sonic-boom-induced building structure responses including damage.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Clarkson, B. L.; Mayes, W. H.

    1972-01-01

    Concepts of sonic-boom pressure loading of building structures and the associated responses are reviewed, and results of pertinent theoretical and experimental research programs are summarized. The significance of sonic-boom load time histories, including waveshape effects, are illustrated with the aid of simple structural elements such as beams and plates. Also included are discussions of the significance of such other phenomena as three-dimensional loading effects, air cavity coupling, multimodal responses, and structural nonlinearities. Measured deflection, acceleration, and strain data from laboratory models and full-scale building tests are summarized, and these data are compared, where possible, with predicted values. Damage complaint and claim experience due both to controlled and uncontrolled supersonic flights over communities are summarized with particular reference to residential, commercial, and historic buildings. Sonic-boom-induced building responses are compared with those from other impulsive loadings due to natural and cultural events and from laboratory simulation tests.

  20. Simulation analysis of the EUSAMA Plus suspension testing method including the impact of the vehicle untested side

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dobaj, K.

    2016-09-01

    The work deals with the simulation analysis of the half car vehicle model parameters on the suspension testing results. The Matlab simulation software was used. The considered model parameters are involved with the shock absorber damping coefficient, the tire radial stiffness, the car width and the rocker arm length. The consistent vibrations of both test plates were considered. Both wheels of the car were subjected to identical vibration, with frequency changed similar to the EUSAMA Plus principle. The shock absorber damping coefficient (for several values of the car width and rocker arm length) was changed on one and both sides of the vehicle. The obtained results are essential for the new suspension testing algorithm (basing on the EUSAMA Plus principle), which will be the aim of the further author's work.

  1. Intercomparison of active, passive and continuous instruments for radon and radon progeny measurements in the EML chamber and test facility

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

    Scarpitta, S.C.; Tu, K.W.; Fisenne, I.M.

    1996-10-01

    Results are presented from the Fifth Intercomparison of Active, Passive and Continuous Instruments for Radon and Radon Progeny Measurements conducted in the EML radon exposure and test facility in May 1996. In total, thirty-four government, private and academic facilities participated in the exercise with over 170 passive and electronic devices exposed in the EML test chamber. During the first week of the exercise, passive and continuous measuring devices were exposed (usually in quadruplicate) to about 1,280 Bq m{sup {minus}3} {sup 222}Rn for 1--7 days. Radon progeny measurements were made during the second week of the exercise. The results indicate thatmore » all of the tested devices that measure radon gas performed well and fulfill their intended purpose. The grand mean (GM) ratio of the participants` reported values to the EML values, for all four radon device categories, was 0.99 {plus_minus} 0.08. Eighty-five percent of all the radon measuring devices that were exposed in the EML radon test chamber were within {plus_minus}1 standard deviation (SD) of the EML reference values. For the most part, radon progeny measurements were also quite good as compared to the EML values. The GM ratio for the 10 continuous PAEC instruments was 0.90 {plus_minus} 0.12 with 75% of the devices within 1 SD of the EML reference values. Most of the continuous and integrating electronic instruments used for measuring the PAEC underestimated the EML values by about 10--15% probably because the concentration of particles onto which the radon progeny were attached was low (1,200--3,800 particles cm{sup {minus}3}). The equilibrium factor at that particle concentration level was 0.10--0.22.« less

  2. Non-invasive coronary angiography for patients with acute atypical chest pain discharged after negative screening including maximal negative treadmill stress test. A prospective study.

    PubMed

    Bonello, L; Armero, S; Jacquier, A; Com, O; Sarran, A; Sbragia, P; Panuel, M; Arques, S; Paganelli, F

    2009-05-01

    Among patients admitted in the emergency department for acute atypical chest pain those with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who are mistakenly discharged home have high mortality. A recent retrospective study has demonstrated that multislice computed tomography (MSCT) coronary angiography could improve triage of these patients. We aimed to prospectively confirm these data on patients with a negative screening including maximal treadmill stress. 30 patients discharged from the emergency department after negative screening for an ACS were included. All patients underwent MSCT angiography of the coronary artery. Patients with coronary atheroma on MSCT had an invasive coronary angiography to confirm these findings. Seven patients (23%) had obstructive coronary artery disease on MSCT. Invasive coronary angiography (ICA) confirmed the diagnosis in all patients. In patients with no previously known coronary artery disease admitted to the emergency department with atypical acute chest pain and discharged after negative screening, including maximal treadmill stress test, MSCT coronary angiography is useful for the diagnosis of obstructive coronary artery disease.

  3. An evaluation of the NASA Tech House, including live-in test results, volume 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Abbott, I. H. A.; Hopping, K. A.; Hypes, W. D.

    1979-01-01

    The NASA Tech House was designed and constructed at the NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia, to demonstrate and evaluate new technology potentially applicable for conservation of energy and resources and for improvements in safety and security in a single-family residence. All technology items, including solar-energy systems and a waste-water-reuse system, were evaluated under actual living conditions for a 1 year period with a family of four living in the house in their normal lifestyle. Results are presented which show overall savings in energy and resources compared with requirements for a defined similar conventional house under the same conditions. General operational experience and performance data are also included for all the various items and systems of technology incorporated into the house design.

  4. A-site ordered quadruple perovskite oxides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Youwen, Long

    2016-07-01

    The A-site ordered perovskite oxides with chemical formula display many intriguing physical properties due to the introduction of transition metals at both A‧ and B sites. Here, research on the recently discovered intermetallic charge transfer occurring between A‧-site Cu and B-site Fe ions in LaCu3Fe4O12 and its analogues is reviewed, along with work on the magnetoelectric multiferroicity observed in LaMn3Cr4O12 with cubic perovskite structure. The Cu-Fe intermetallic charge transfer leads to a first-order isostructural phase transition accompanied by drastic variations in magnetism and electrical transport properties. The LaMn3Cr4O12 is a novel spin-driven multiferroic system with strong magnetoelectric coupling effects. The compound is the first example of cubic perovskite multiferroics to be found. It opens up a new arena for studying unexpected multiferroic mechanisms. Project supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant No. 2014CB921500), the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Grant No. XDB07030300), and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 11574378).

  5. The Consequences of Including Seductive Details during Lecture

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harp, Shannon F.; Maslich, Amy A.

    2005-01-01

    When text passages include seductive details (i.e., interesting, tangentially related adjuncts that are irrelevant to the lesson), students perform worse on recall (Garner, Gillingham, & White, 1989) and problem-solving tests (Harp & Mayer, 1997, 1998) than students reading the same material without seductive details. To determine whether…

  6. Franck-Condon simulation of the single-vibronic-level emission spectra of HPCl/DPCl and the chemiluminescence spectrum of HPCl, including anharmonicity.

    PubMed

    Chau, Foo-Tim; Mok, Daniel K W; Lee, Edmond P F; Dyke, John M

    2004-07-22

    Restricted-spin coupled-cluster single-double plus perturbative triple excitation [RCCSD(T)] potential energy functions (PEFs) were calculated for the X (2)A" and A (2)A' states of HPCl employing the augmented correlation-consistent polarized-valence-quadruple-zeta (aug-cc-pVQZ) basis set. Further geometry optimization calculations were carried out on both electronic states of HPCl at the RCCSD(T) level with all electron and quasirelativistic effective core potential basis sets of better than the aug-cc-pVQZ quality, and also including some core electrons, in order to obtain more reliable geometrical parameters and relative electronic energy of the two states. Anharmonic vibrational wave functions of the two states of HPCl and DPCl, and Franck-Condon (FC) factors of the A (2)A'-X (2)A" transition were computed employing the RCCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVQZ PEFs. Calculated FC factors with allowance for Duschinsky rotation and anharmonicity were used to simulate the single-vibronic-level (SVL) emission spectra of HPCl and DPCl reported by Brandon et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 119, 2037 (2003)] and the chemiluminescence spectrum reported by Bramwell et al. [Chem. Phys. Lett. 331, 483 (2000)]. Comparison between simulated and observed SVL emission spectra gives the experimentally derived equilibrium geometry of the A (2)A' state of HPCl of r(e)(PCl) = 2.0035 +/- 0.0015 A, theta(e) = 116.08 +/- 0.60 degrees, and r(e)(HP) = 1.4063+/-0.0015 A via the iterative Franck-Condon analysis procedure. Comparison between simulated and observed chemiluminescence spectra confirms that the vibrational population distribution of the A (2)A' state of HPCl is non-Boltzmann, as proposed by Baraille et al. [Chem. Phys. 289, 263 (2003)].

  7. Nanomechanical testing system

    DOEpatents

    Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

    2014-07-08

    An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

  8. Nanomechanical testing system

    DOEpatents

    Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

    2015-01-27

    An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

  9. Nanomechanical testing system

    DOEpatents

    Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

    2015-02-24

    An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

  10. Schirmer test

    MedlinePlus

    Tear test; Tearing test; Dry eye test; Basal secretion test; Sjögren - Schirmer; Schirmer's test ... used when the eye doctor suspects you have dry eye. Symptoms include dryness of the eyes or excessive ...

  11. Thyroid Tests

    MedlinePlus

    ... calories and how fast your heart beats. Thyroid tests check how well your thyroid is working. They ... thyroid diseases such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Thyroid tests include blood tests and imaging tests. Blood tests ...

  12. X-wing fly-by-wire vehicle management system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fischer, Jr., William C. (Inventor)

    1990-01-01

    A complete, computer based, vehicle management system (VMS) for X-Wing aircraft using digital fly-by-wire technology controlling many subsystems and providing functions beyond the classical aircraft flight control system. The vehicle management system receives input signals from a multiplicity of sensors and provides commands to a large number of actuators controlling many subsystems. The VMS includes--segregating flight critical and mission critical factors and providing a greater level of back-up or redundancy for the former; centralizing the computation of functions utilized by several subsystems (e.g. air data, rotor speed, etc.); integrating the control of the flight control functions, the compressor control, the rotor conversion control, vibration alleviation by higher harmonic control, engine power anticipation and self-test, all in the same flight control computer (FCC) hardware units. The VMS uses equivalent redundancy techniques to attain quadruple equivalency levels; includes alternate modes of operation and recovery means to back-up any functions which fail; and uses back-up control software for software redundancy.

  13. Tests of Five Full-Scale Propellers in the Presence of a Radial and a Liquid-Cooled Engine Nacelle, Including Tests of Two Spinners

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Biermann, David; Hartman, Edwin P

    1938-01-01

    Wind-tunnel tests are reported of five 3-blade 10-foot propellers operating in front of a radial and a liquid-cooled engine nacelle. The range of blade angles investigated extended from 15 degrees to 45 degrees. Two spinners were tested in conjunction with the liquid-cooled engine nacelle. Comparisons are made between propellers having different blade-shank shapes, blades of different thickness, and different airfoil sections. The results show that propellers operating in front of the liquid-cooled engine nacelle had higher take-off efficiencies than when operating in front of the radial engine nacelle; the peak efficiency was higher only when spinners were employed. One spinner increased the propulsive efficiency of the liquid-cooled unit 6 percent for the highest blade-angle setting investigated and less for lower blade angles. The propeller having airfoil sections extending into the hub was superior to one having round blade shanks. The thick propeller having a Clark y section had a higher take-off efficiency than the thinner one, but its maximum efficiency was possibly lower. Of the three blade sections tested, Clark y, R.A.F. 6, and NACA 2400-34, the Clark y was superior for the high-speed condition, but the R.A.F. 6 excelled for the take-off condition.

  14. Thickness-dependent transition of the valence band shape from parabolic to Mexican-hat-like in the MBE grown InSe ultrathin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kibirev, I. A.; Matetskiy, A. V.; Zotov, A. V.; Saranin, A. A.

    2018-05-01

    Using molecular beam epitaxy, InSe films of thicknesses from one to six quadruple layers were grown on Si(111). The surface morphology and structure of the InSe films were monitored using reflection high-energy electron diffraction and scanning tunneling microscopy observations. Angle resolved photoemission experiments revealed that the bulk-like parabolic shape of the valence band of InSe/Si(111) changes for the so-called "Mexican hat" shape when the thickness of the InSe film reduces to one and two quadruple layers. The observed effect is in a qualitative agreement with the reported calculation results on the free-standing InSe films. However, in the InSe/Si(111) system, the features used to characterize the Mexican hat dispersion appear to be more pronounced, which makes the one- and two-quadruple InSe layers on Si(111) promising candidates as thermoelectric materials.

  15. Test Re-Test Reliability of Four Versions of the 3-Cone Test in Non-Athletic Men

    PubMed Central

    Langley, Jason G.; Chetlin, Robert D.

    2017-01-01

    Until recently, measurement and evaluation in sport science, especially agility testing, has not always included key elements of proper test construction. Often tests are published without reporting reliability and validity analysis for a specific population. The purpose of the present study was to examine the test re-test reliability of four versions of the 3-Cone Test (3CT), and provide guidance on proper test construction for testing agility in athletic populations. Forty male students enrolled in classes in the Department of Physical Education at a mid-Atlantic university participated. On each of test day participants performed 10 trials. In random order, they performed three trials to the right (3CTR, standard test), three to the left (3CTL), and two modified trials (3CTAR and 3CTAL), which included a reactive component in which a visual cue was given to indicate direction. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) indicated a moderate to high reliability for the four tests, 3CTR 0.79 (0.64-0.88, 95%CI), 3CTL 0.73 (0.55-0.85), 3CTAR 0.85(0.74-0.92), and 3CTAL 0.79 (0.64-0.88). Small standard error of the measurement (SEM) was found; range 0.09 to 0.10. Pearson correlations between tests were high (0.82-0.92) on day one as well as day two (0.72-0.85). These results indicate each version of the 3-Cone Test is reliable; however, further tests are needed with specific athletic populations. Only the 3CTAR and 3CTAL are tests of agility due to the inclusion of a reactive component. Future studies examining agility testing and training should incorporate technological elements, including automated timing systems and motion capture analysis. Such instrumentation will allow for optimal design of tests that simulate sport-specific game conditions. Key points The commonly used 3-cone test (upside down “L” to the right”) is a reliable change of direction speed (CODS) test when evaluating collegiate males. A modification of the CODS 3-cone test (upside down

  16. Dynamic Analyses Including Joints Of Truss Structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Belvin, W. Keith

    1991-01-01

    Method for mathematically modeling joints to assess influences of joints on dynamic response of truss structures developed in study. Only structures with low-frequency oscillations considered; only Coulomb friction and viscous damping included in analysis. Focus of effort to obtain finite-element mathematical models of joints exhibiting load-vs.-deflection behavior similar to measured load-vs.-deflection behavior of real joints. Experiments performed to determine stiffness and damping nonlinearities typical of joint hardware. Algorithm for computing coefficients of analytical joint models based on test data developed to enable study of linear and nonlinear effects of joints on global structural response. Besides intended application to large space structures, applications in nonaerospace community include ground-based antennas and earthquake-resistant steel-framed buildings.

  17. Revisiting Hansen Solubility Parameters by Including Thermodynamics.

    PubMed

    Louwerse, Manuel J; Maldonado, Ana; Rousseau, Simon; Moreau-Masselon, Chloe; Roux, Bernard; Rothenberg, Gadi

    2017-11-03

    The Hansen solubility parameter approach is revisited by implementing the thermodynamics of dissolution and mixing. Hansen's pragmatic approach has earned its spurs in predicting solvents for polymer solutions, but for molecular solutes improvements are needed. By going into the details of entropy and enthalpy, several corrections are suggested that make the methodology thermodynamically sound without losing its ease of use. The most important corrections include accounting for the solvent molecules' size, the destruction of the solid's crystal structure, and the specificity of hydrogen-bonding interactions, as well as opportunities to predict the solubility at extrapolated temperatures. Testing the original and the improved methods on a large industrial dataset including solvent blends, fit qualities improved from 0.89 to 0.97 and the percentage of correct predictions rose from 54 % to 78 %. Full Matlab scripts are included in the Supporting Information, allowing readers to implement these improvements on their own datasets. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  18. Six-Degree-of-Freedom Dynamic Test System (SDTS) User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stokes, LeBarian

    2012-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the SDTS. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non- NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  19. Defective in Cuticular Ridges (DCR) of Arabidopsis thaliana, a Gene Associated with Surface Cutin Formation, Encodes a Soluble Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase*

    PubMed Central

    Rani, Sapa Hima; Krishna, T. H. Anantha; Saha, Saikat; Negi, Arvind Singh; Rajasekharan, Ram

    2010-01-01

    A key step in the triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthetic pathway is the final acylation of diacylglycerol (DAG) by DAG acyltransferase. In silico analysis has revealed that the DCR (defective in cuticular ridges) (At5g23940) gene has a typical HX4D acyltransferase motif at the N-terminal end and a lipid binding motif VX2GF at the middle of the sequence. To understand the biochemical function, the gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and the purified recombinant protein was found to acylate DAG specifically in an acyl-CoA-dependent manner. Overexpression of At5g23940 in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae quadruple mutant deficient in DAG acyltransferases resulted in TAG accumulation. At5g23940 rescued the growth of this quadruple mutant in the oleate-containing medium, whereas empty vector control did not. Lipid particles were localized in the cytosol of At5g23940-transformed quadruple mutant cells, as observed by oil red O staining. There was an incorporation of 16-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid into TAG in At5g23940-transformed cells of quadruple mutant. Here we report a soluble acyl-CoA-dependent DAG acyltransferase from Arabidopsis thaliana. Taken together, these data suggest that a broad specific DAG acyltransferase may be involved in the cutin as well as in the TAG biosynthesis by supplying hydroxy fatty acid. PMID:20921218

  20. Defective in cuticular ridges (DCR) of Arabidopsis thaliana, a gene associated with surface cutin formation, encodes a soluble diacylglycerol acyltransferase.

    PubMed

    Rani, Sapa Hima; Krishna, T H Anantha; Saha, Saikat; Negi, Arvind Singh; Rajasekharan, Ram

    2010-12-03

    A key step in the triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthetic pathway is the final acylation of diacylglycerol (DAG) by DAG acyltransferase. In silico analysis has revealed that the DCR (defective in cuticular ridges) (At5g23940) gene has a typical HX(4)D acyltransferase motif at the N-terminal end and a lipid binding motif VX(2)GF at the middle of the sequence. To understand the biochemical function, the gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and the purified recombinant protein was found to acylate DAG specifically in an acyl-CoA-dependent manner. Overexpression of At5g23940 in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae quadruple mutant deficient in DAG acyltransferases resulted in TAG accumulation. At5g23940 rescued the growth of this quadruple mutant in the oleate-containing medium, whereas empty vector control did not. Lipid particles were localized in the cytosol of At5g23940-transformed quadruple mutant cells, as observed by oil red O staining. There was an incorporation of 16-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid into TAG in At5g23940-transformed cells of quadruple mutant. Here we report a soluble acyl-CoA-dependent DAG acyltransferase from Arabidopsis thaliana. Taken together, these data suggest that a broad specific DAG acyltransferase may be involved in the cutin as well as in the TAG biosynthesis by supplying hydroxy fatty acid.

  1. Uniform Test Assembly

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Belov, Dmitry I.

    2008-01-01

    In educational practice, a test assembly problem is formulated as a system of inequalities induced by test specifications. Each solution to the system is a test, represented by a 0-1 vector, where each element corresponds to an item included (1) or not included (0) into the test. Therefore, the size of a 0-1 vector equals the number of items "n"…

  2. VIEW OF EAST TEST SITE FROM TOP OF STATIC TEST ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    VIEW OF EAST TEST SITE FROM TOP OF STATIC TEST TOWER VIEW INCLUDES STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS TEST STAND COLD CALIBRATION TEST STAND AND COMPONENTS TEST LAB. - Marshall Space Flight Center, East Test Area, Dodd Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

  3. Including Bioconcentration Kinetics for the Prioritization and Interpretation of Regulatory Aquatic Toxicity Tests of Highly Hydrophobic Chemicals.

    PubMed

    Kwon, Jung-Hwan; Lee, So-Young; Kang, Hyun-Joong; Mayer, Philipp; Escher, Beate I

    2016-11-01

    Worldwide, regulations of chemicals require short-term toxicity data for evaluating hazards and risks of the chemicals. Current data requirements on the registration of chemicals are primarily based on tonnage and do not yet consider properties of chemicals. For example, short-term ecotoxicity data are required for chemicals with production volume greater than 1 or 10 ton/y according to REACH, without considering chemical properties. Highly hydrophobic chemicals are characterized by low water solubility and slow bioconcentration kinetics, which may hamper the interpretation of short-term toxicity experiments. In this work, internal concentrations of highly hydrophobic chemicals were predicted for standard acute ecotoxicity tests at three trophic levels, algae, invertebrate, and fish. As demonstrated by comparison with maximum aqueous concentrations at water solubility, chemicals with an octanol-water partition coefficient (K ow ) greater than 10 6 are not expected to reach sufficiently high internal concentrations for exerting effects within the test duration of acute tests with fish and invertebrates, even though they might be intrinsically toxic. This toxicity cutoff was explained by the slow uptake, i.e., by kinetics, not by thermodynamic limitations. Predictions were confirmed by data entries of the OECD's screening information data set (SIDS) (n = 746), apart from a few exceptions concerning mainly organometallic substances and those with inconsistency between water solubility and K ow . Taking error propagation and model assumptions into account, we thus propose a revision of data requirements for highly hydrophobic chemicals with log K ow > 7.4: Short-term toxicity tests can be limited to algae that generally have the highest uptake rate constants, whereas the primary focus of the assessment should be on persistence, bioaccumulation, and long-term effects.

  4. Disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility testing of members of the family Legionellaceae including erythromycin-resistant variants of Legionella micdadei.

    PubMed Central

    Dowling, J N; McDevitt, D A; Pasculle, A W

    1984-01-01

    Disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility testing of members of the family Legionellaceae was accomplished on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar by allowing the bacteria to grow for 6 h before placement of the disks, followed by an additional 42-h incubation period before the inhibitory zones were measured. This system was standardized by comparing the zone sizes with the MICs for 20 antimicrobial agents of nine bacterial strains in five Legionella species and of 19 laboratory-derived, erythromycin-resistant variants of Legionella micdadei. A high, linear correlation between zone size and MIC was found for erythromycin, trimethoprim, penicillin, ampicillin, carbenicillin, cephalothin, cefamandole, cefoxitin, moxalactam, chloramphenicol, vancomycin, and clindamycin. Disk susceptibility testing could be employed to screen Legionella isolates for resistance to any of these antimicrobial agents, of which only erythromycin is known to be efficacious in the treatment of legionellosis. With selected antibiotics, disk susceptibility patterns also appeared to accurately identify to the species level the legionellae. The range of the MICs of the legionellae for rifampin and the aminoglycosides was too small to determine whether the correlation of zone size with MIC was linear. However, laboratory-derived, high-level rifampin-resistant variants of L. micdadei demonstrated no inhibition zone around the rifampin disk, indicating that disk susceptibility testing would likely identify a rifampin-resistant clinical isolate. Of the antimicrobial agents tested, the only agents for which disk susceptibility testing was definitely not possible on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar were oxacillin, the tetracyclines, and the sulfonamides. PMID:6565706

  5. Estimating implementation and operational costs of an integrated tiered CD4 service including laboratory and point of care testing in a remote health district in South Africa.

    PubMed

    Cassim, Naseem; Coetzee, Lindi M; Schnippel, Kathryn; Glencross, Deborah K

    2014-01-01

    An integrated tiered service delivery model (ITSDM) has been proposed to provide 'full-coverage' of CD4 services throughout South Africa. Five tiers are described, defined by testing volumes and number of referring health-facilities. These include: (1) Tier-1/decentralized point-of-care service (POC) in a single site; Tier-2/POC-hub servicing processing < 30-40 samples from 8-10 health-clinics; Tier-3/Community laboratories servicing ∼ 50 health-clinics, processing < 150 samples/day; high-volume centralized laboratories (Tier-4 and Tier-5) processing < 300 or > 600 samples/day and serving > 100 or > 200 health-clinics, respectively. The objective of this study was to establish costs of existing and ITSDM-tiers 1, 2 and 3 in a remote, under-serviced district in South Africa. Historical health-facility workload volumes from the Pixley-ka-Seme district, and the total volumes of CD4 tests performed by the adjacent district referral CD4 laboratories, linked to locations of all referring clinics and related laboratory-to-result turn-around time (LTR-TAT) data, were extracted from the NHLS Corporate-Data-Warehouse for the period April-2012 to March-2013. Tiers were costed separately (as a cost-per-result) including equipment, staffing, reagents and test consumable costs. A one-way sensitivity analyses provided for changes in reagent price, test volumes and personnel time. The lowest cost-per-result was noted for the existing laboratory-based Tiers- 4 and 5 ($6.24 and $5.37 respectively), but with related increased LTR-TAT of > 24-48 hours. Full service coverage with TAT < 6-hours could be achieved with placement of twenty-seven Tier-1/POC or eight Tier-2/POC-hubs, at a cost-per-result of $32.32 and $15.88 respectively. A single district Tier-3 laboratory also ensured 'full service coverage' and < 24 hour LTR-TAT for the district at $7.42 per-test. Implementing a single Tier-3/community laboratory to extend and improve delivery of services in Pixley-ka-Seme, with an

  6. Development and Field-Testing of a Study Protocol, including a Web-Based Occupant Survey Tool, for Use in Intervention Studies of Indoor Environmental Quality

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

    Mendell, Mark; Eliseeva, Ekaterina; Spears, Michael

    We developed and pilot-tested an overall protocol for intervention studies to evaluate the effects of indoor environmental changes in office buildings on the health symptoms and comfort of occupants. The protocol includes a web-based survey to assess the occupant's responses, as well as specific features of study design and analysis. The pilot study, carried out on two similar floors in a single building, compared two types of ventilation system filter media. With support from the building's Facilities staff, the implementation of the filter change intervention went well. While the web-based survey tool worked well also, low overall response rates (21-34percentmore » among the three work groups included) limited our ability to evaluate the filter intervention., The total number of questionnaires returned was low even though we extended the study from eight to ten weeks. Because another simultaneous study we conducted elsewhere using the same survey had a high response rate (>70percent), we conclude that the low response here resulted from issues specific to this pilot, including unexpected restrictions by some employing agencies on communication with occupants.« less

  7. VIEW OF EAST TEST SITE FROM TOP OF STATIC TEST ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    VIEW OF EAST TEST SITE FROM TOP OF STATIC TEST TOWER VIEW INCLUDES POWER PLANT TEST STAND AND SATURN V TEST STAND IN THE WEST TEST AREA (FAR BACKGROUND). - Marshall Space Flight Center, East Test Area, Dodd Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

  8. Comments on Professor Bloom's Paper Entitled "Toward a Theory of Testing Which Includes Measurement-Evaluation-Assessment."

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Glass, Gene V.

    The objective of evaluation in education is distinct from the objectives of measurement and assessment or testing. Accordingly, a synthesis of the three procedures into a single theory is not viable. Evaluation is a method of gathering empirical evidence for decision making by answering questions about the worth of educational materials,…

  9. Identification of Eight Synthetic Cannabinoids, Including 5F-AKB48 in Seized Herbal Products Using DART-TOF-MS and LC-QTOF-MS as Nontargeted Screening Methods.

    PubMed

    Moore, Katherine N; Garvin, Demetra; Thomas, Brian F; Grabenauer, Megan

    2017-09-01

    Synthetic cannabinoids are sprayed onto plant material and smoked for their marijuana-like effects. Clandestine manufacturers modify synthetic cannabinoid structures by creating closely related analogs. Forensic laboratories are tasked with detection of these analog compounds, but targeted analytical methods are often thwarted by the structural modifications. Here, direct analysis in real time coupled to accurate mass time-of-flight mass spectrometry (DART-TOF-MS) in combination with liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) are presented as a screening and nontargeted confirmation method, respectively. Methanol extracts of herbal material were run using both methods. Spectral data from four different herbal products were evaluated by comparing fragmentation pattern, accurate mass and retention time to available reference standards. JWH-018, JWH-019, AM2201, JWH-122, 5F-AKB48, AKB48-N-(4-pentenyl) analog, UR144, and XLR11 were identified in the products. Results demonstrate that DART-TOF-MS affords a useful approach for rapid screening of herbal products for the presence and identification of synthetic cannabinoids. © 2017 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

  10. Test plan for performance testing of the Eaton AC-3 electric vehicle

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Crumley, R.; Heiselmann, H. W.

    1985-04-01

    An alternating current (ac) propulsion system for an electric vehicle was developed and tested. The test bed vehicle is a modified 1981 Mercury Lynx. The test plan was prepared specifically for the third modification to this test bed and identified as the Eaton AC-3. The scope of the testing done on the Eaton AC-3 includes coastdown and dynamometer tests but does not include environmental, on-road, or track testing. Coastdown testing is performed in accordance with SAE J-1263 (SAE Recommended Practice for Road Load Measurement and Dynamometer Simulation Using Coastdown Techniques).

  11. Science Library of Test Items. Volume Nine. Mastery Testing Programme. [Mastery Tests Series 1.] Tests M1-M13.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New South Wales Dept. of Education, Sydney (Australia).

    As part of a series of tests to measure mastery of specific skills in the natural sciences, copies of the first 13 tests are provided. Skills to be tested include: (1) reading a table; (2) using a biological key; (3) identifying chemical symbols; (4) identifying parts of a human body; (5) reading a line graph; (6) identifying electronic and…

  12. Morpheus Vertical Test Bed Flight Testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hart, Jeremy; Devolites, Jennifer

    2014-01-01

    NASA's Morpheus Project has developed and tested a prototype planetary lander capable of vertical takeoff and landing, that is designed to serve as a testbed for advanced spacecraft technologies. The lander vehicle, propelled by a LOX/Methane engine and sized to carry a 500kg payload to the lunar surface, provides a platform for bringing technologies from the laboratory into an integrated flight system at relatively low cost. Morpheus onboard software is autonomous from ignition all the way through landing, and is designed to be capable of executing a variety of flight trajectories, with onboard fault checks and automatic contingency responses. The Morpheus 1.5A vehicle performed 26 integrated vehicle test flights including hot-fire tests, tethered tests, and two attempted freeflights between April 2011 and August 2012. The final flight of Morpheus 1.5A resulted in a loss of the vehicle. In September 2012, development began on the Morpheus 1.5B vehicle, which subsequently followed a similar test campaign culminating in free-flights at a simulated planetary landscape built at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. This paper describes the integrated test campaign, including successes and setbacks, and how the system design for handling faults and failures evolved over the course of the project.

  13. Estimating Implementation and Operational Costs of an Integrated Tiered CD4 Service including Laboratory and Point of Care Testing in a Remote Health District in South Africa

    PubMed Central

    Cassim, Naseem; Coetzee, Lindi M.; Schnippel, Kathryn; Glencross, Deborah K.

    2014-01-01

    Background An integrated tiered service delivery model (ITSDM) has been proposed to provide ‘full-coverage’ of CD4 services throughout South Africa. Five tiers are described, defined by testing volumes and number of referring health-facilities. These include: (1) Tier-1/decentralized point-of-care service (POC) in a single site; Tier-2/POC-hub servicing processing <30–40 samples from 8–10 health-clinics; Tier-3/Community laboratories servicing ∼50 health-clinics, processing <150 samples/day; high-volume centralized laboratories (Tier-4 and Tier-5) processing <300 or >600 samples/day and serving >100 or >200 health-clinics, respectively. The objective of this study was to establish costs of existing and ITSDM-tiers 1, 2 and 3 in a remote, under-serviced district in South Africa. Methods Historical health-facility workload volumes from the Pixley-ka-Seme district, and the total volumes of CD4 tests performed by the adjacent district referral CD4 laboratories, linked to locations of all referring clinics and related laboratory-to-result turn-around time (LTR-TAT) data, were extracted from the NHLS Corporate-Data-Warehouse for the period April-2012 to March-2013. Tiers were costed separately (as a cost-per-result) including equipment, staffing, reagents and test consumable costs. A one-way sensitivity analyses provided for changes in reagent price, test volumes and personnel time. Results The lowest cost-per-result was noted for the existing laboratory-based Tiers- 4 and 5 ($6.24 and $5.37 respectively), but with related increased LTR-TAT of >24–48 hours. Full service coverage with TAT <6-hours could be achieved with placement of twenty-seven Tier-1/POC or eight Tier-2/POC-hubs, at a cost-per-result of $32.32 and $15.88 respectively. A single district Tier-3 laboratory also ensured ‘full service coverage’ and <24 hour LTR-TAT for the district at $7.42 per-test. Conclusion Implementing a single Tier-3/community laboratory to extend and improve delivery

  14. Rail Impact Testing. Test Operations Procedure (TOP)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-09-15

    impact test. The rail impact test is used to verify structural integrity of the test item and the adequacy of the tie-down system and tie-down...strength of provisions, connection and supporting structural frame, paragraph 5.2.3 ** Superscript...parts, to include outriggers and booms) without advanced approval by SDDCTEA. Torque nuts on wire rope clips to their correct value. Torque cable

  15. Development of a simultaneous multiple solid-phase microextraction-single shot-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method and application to aroma profile analysis of commercial coffee.

    PubMed

    Lee, Changgook; Lee, Younghoon; Lee, Jae-Gon; Buglass, Alan J

    2013-06-21

    A simultaneous multiple solid-phase microextraction-single shot-gas chromatography mass spectrometry (smSPME-ss-GC/MS) method has been developed for headspace analysis. Up to four fibers (50/30 μm DVB/CAR/PDMS) were used simultaneously for the extraction of aroma components from the headspace of a single sample chamber in order to increase sensitivity of aroma extraction. To avoid peak broadening and to maximize resolution, a simple cryofocusing technique was adopted during sequential thermal desorption of multiple SPME fibers prior to a 'single shot' chromatographic run. The method was developed and validated on a model flavor mixture, containing 81 known pure components. With the conditions of 10 min of incubation and 30 min of extraction at 50 °C, single, dual, triple and quadruple SPME extractions were compared. The increase in total peak area with increase in the number of fibers showed good linearity (R(2)=0.9917) and the mean precision was 12.0% (RSD) for the total peak sum, with quadruple simultaneous SPME extraction. Using a real sample such as commercial coffee granules, aroma profile analysis was conducted using single, dual, triple and quadruple SPME fibers. The increase in total peak intensity again showed good linearity with increase in the number of SPME fibers used (R(2)=0.9992) and the precision of quadruple SPME extraction was 9.9% (RSD) for the total peak sum. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Forensic DNA testing.

    PubMed

    Butler, John M

    2011-12-01

    Forensic DNA testing has a number of applications, including parentage testing, identifying human remains from natural or man-made disasters or terrorist attacks, and solving crimes. This article provides background information followed by an overview of the process of forensic DNA testing, including sample collection, DNA extraction, PCR amplification, short tandem repeat (STR) allele separation and sizing, typing and profile interpretation, statistical analysis, and quality assurance. The article concludes with discussions of possible problems with the data and other forensic DNA testing techniques.

  17. A new bipolar Qtrim power supply system

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

    Mi, C.; Bruno, D.; Drozd, J.

    2015-05-03

    This year marks the 15th run of RHIC (Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider) operations. The reliability of superconducting magnet power supplies is one of the essential factors in the entire accelerator complex. Besides maintaining existing power supplies and their associated equipment, newly designed systems are also required based on the physicist’s latest requirements. A bipolar power supply was required for this year’s main quadruple trim power supply. This paper will explain the design, prototype, testing, installation and operation of this recently installed power supply system.

  18. The Irish Helicobacter pylori Working Group consensus for the diagnosis and treatment of H. pylori infection in adult patients in Ireland.

    PubMed

    Smith, Sinead; Boyle, Breida; Brennan, Denise; Buckley, Martin; Crotty, Paul; Doyle, Maeve; Farrell, Richard; Hussey, Mary; Kevans, David; Malfertheiner, Peter; Megraud, Francis; Nugent, Sean; O'Connor, Anthony; O'Morain, Colm; Weston, Shiobhan; McNamara, Deirdre

    2017-05-01

    Irish eradication rates for Helicobacter pylori are decreasing and there is an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These trends call into question current management strategies. To establish an Irish Helicobacter pylori Working Group (IHPWG) to assess, revise and tailor current available recommendations. Experts in the areas of gastroenterology and microbiology were invited to join the IHPWG. Questions of relevance to diagnosis, first-line and rescue therapy were developed using the PICO system. A literature search was performed. The 'Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation' approach was then used to rate the quality of available evidence and grade the resulting recommendations. Key resultant IHPWG statements (S), the strength of recommendation and quality of evidence include S8: standard triple therapy for 7 days' duration can no longer be recommended (strong and moderate). S9: 14 days of clarithromycin-based triple therapy with a high-dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is recommended as first-line therapy. Bismuth quadruple therapy for 14 days is an alternative if available (strong and moderate). S12: second-line therapy depends on the first-line treatment and should not be the same treatment. The options are (a) 14 days of levofloxacin-based therapy with high-dose PPI, (b) 14 days of clarithromycin-based triple therapy with high-dose PPI or (c) bismuth quadruple therapy for 14 days (strong and moderate). S13: culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing should be performed following two treatment failures (weak and low/very low). These recommendations are intended to provide the most relevant current best-practice guidelines for the management of H. pylori infection in adults in Ireland.

  19. SWI 1.10 Testing Process

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stokes, LeBarian

    2009-01-01

    This procedure establishes a system for performing testing in the Six-Degree-Of-Freedom Dynamic Test System (SDTS). Testing includes development and verification testing of customer supplied Test Articles (TAs) and other testing requirements, as requested. This procedure applies to all SDTS testing operations and equipment. The procedure provides an overview of testing performed in the SDTS including test identification requirements, test planning and procedure development, test and performance inspection, test data analysis, and test report generation.

  20. A case of pheochromocytoma with negative MIBG scintigraphy, PET-CT and genetic tests (VHL included) and a rare case of post-operative erectile dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Defeudis, Giuseppe; Fioriti, Elvira; Palermo, Andrea; Tuccinardi, Dario; Minucci, Angelo; Capoluongo, Ettore; Pozzilli, Paolo; Manfrini, Silvia

    2018-06-02

    Pheochromocytoma (Ph) is a rare catecholamine-secreting neuroendocrine tumour that arises from the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla. Ph usually presents with symptoms including paroxysmal headache, sweating, palpitations, and hypertension. During a computed tomography (CT) scan in a normotensive 49-year-old man, an incidentaloma of 4.5 cm was detected. Hypercortisolism was excluded after the dexamethasone suppression test, levels of DHEAS all falling within the normal range. After a 24-h urine collection, normal urinary metanephrines and a 4-fold higher level compared to the normal range of urinary normetanephrines were observed. Cortisoluria levels were within the normal range. Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) was also excluded. Before the adrenalectomy, 123 I meta-iodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy (MIBG) and 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-positron emission tomography (FDG PET)/CT were performed and were both negative. Histological examination confirmed the laboratory diagnosis of Ph. Genetic screening to evaluate the SDHB, SDHD, RET, CDKN1B, and VHL genes was requested in order to test for Von Hippel Lindau disease, but unexpectedly all of these were negative. On follow-up after surgery, the patient presented normal urinary catecholamines. However, after Ph removal, he reported frequent episodes of erectile dysfunction (ED) despite non-use of any antihypertensive medications and in the absence of any other precipitating factors, such as hormonal imbalance. This is a case report in which, in a normotensive patient with Ph, both MIBG and FDG PET-CT were negative, as were also genetic exams, including VHL, this underlining the difficulties in diagnosing this condition; furthermore, a rare case of ED occurred after surgery.

  1. Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility (EMI/EMC) Control Test and Measurement Facility: User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scully, Robert C.

    2011-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the EMI/EMC Test Facility. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  2. Meta-analysis: is combination of tetracycline and amoxicillin suitable for Helicobacter pylori infection?

    PubMed

    Lv, Zhi-Fa; Wang, Fu-Cai; Zheng, Hui-Lie; Wang, Ben; Xie, Yong; Zhou, Xiao-Jiang; Lv, Nong-Hua

    2015-02-28

    To access the efficacy of combination with amoxicillin and tetracycline for eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), thus providing clinical practice guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Science Citation Index, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and Chinese Biomedical Literature databases and abstract books of major European, American, and Asian gastroenterological meetings were searched. All clinical trials that examined the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapies and included both tetracycline and amoxicillin in one study arm were selected for this systematic review and meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software (Version 2). Subgroup, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were also carried out. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.42-1.78) for quadruple therapy with amoxicillin and tetracycline vs other quadruple regimens, and total eradication rates were 78.1% by intention-to-treat (ITT) and 84.5% by per-protocol (PP) analyses in the experimental groups. The pooled eradication rates of 14-d quadruple regimens with a combination of amoxicillin and tetracycline were 82.3% by ITT and 89.0% by PP, and those of 10-d regimens were 84.6% by ITT and 93.7% by PP. The OR by ITT were 1.21 (95%CI: 0.64-2.28) for triple regimens with amoxicillin and tetracycline vs other regimens and 1.81 (95%CI: 1.37-2.41) for sequential treatment with amoxicillin and tetracycline vs other regimens, respectively. The effectiveness of regimens employing amoxicillin and tetracycline for H. pylori eradication may be not inferior to other regimens, but further study should be necessary.

  3. Sweat electrolytes test

    MedlinePlus

    ... test is used to confirm these results. Normal Results Normal results include: A sweat chloride test result ... edema) can affect the test results. What Abnormal Results Mean An abnormal test may mean that the ...

  4. Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA). Power Systems Test Facilities

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Situ, Cindy H.

    2010-01-01

    This viewgraph presentation provides a detailed description of the Johnson Space Center's Power Systems Facility located in the Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA). Facilities and the resources used to support power and battery systems testing are also shown. The contents include: 1) Power Testing; 2) Power Test Equipment Capabilities Summary; 3) Source/Load; 4) Battery Facilities; 5) Battery Test Equipment Capabilities Summary; 6) Battery Testing; 7) Performance Test Equipment; 8) Battery Test Environments; 9) Battery Abuse Chambers; 10) Battery Abuse Capabilities; and 11) Battery Test Area Resources.

  5. Micro-tensile testing system

    DOEpatents

    Wenski, Edward G [Lenexa, KS

    2007-08-21

    A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

  6. Micro-tensile testing system

    DOEpatents

    Wenski, Edward G.

    2006-01-10

    A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

  7. Micro-tensile testing system

    DOEpatents

    Wenski, Edward G [Lenexa, KS

    2007-07-17

    A micro-tensile testing system providing a stand-alone test platform for testing and reporting physical or engineering properties of test samples of materials having thicknesses of approximately between 0.002 inch and 0.030 inch, including, for example, LiGA engineered materials. The testing system is able to perform a variety of static, dynamic, and cyclic tests. The testing system includes a rigid frame and adjustable gripping supports to minimize measurement errors due to deflection or bending under load; serrated grips for securing the extremely small test sample; high-speed laser scan micrometers for obtaining accurate results; and test software for controlling the testing procedure and reporting results.

  8. [ALPHA-fitness test battery: health-related field-based fitness tests assessment in children and adolescents].

    PubMed

    Ruiz, J R; España Romero, V; Castro Piñero, J; Artero, E G; Ortega, F B; Cuenca García, M; Jiménez Pavón, D; Chillón, P; Girela Rejón, Ma J; Mora, J; Gutiérrez, A; Suni, J; Sjöstrom, M; Castillo, M J

    2011-01-01

    Hereby we summarize the work developed by the ALPHA (Assessing Levels of Physical Activity) Study and describe the tests included in the ALPHA health-related fitness test battery for children and adolescents. The evidence-based ALPHA-Fitness test battery include the following tests: 1) the 20 m shuttle run test to assess cardiorespiratory fitness; 2) the handgrip strength and 3) standing broad jump to assess musculoskeletal fitness, and 4) body mass index, 5) waist circumference; and 6) skinfold thickness (triceps and subscapular) to assess body composition. Furthermore, we include two versions: 1) the high priority ALPHA health-related fitness test battery, which comprises all the evidence-based fitness tests except the measurement of the skinfold thickness; and 2) the extended ALPHA health-related fitness tests battery for children and adolescents, which includes all the evidence-based fitness tests plus the 4 x 10 m shuttle run test to assess motor fitness.

  9. Wolf Testing: Open Source Testing Software

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Braasch, P.; Gay, P. L.

    2004-12-01

    Wolf Testing is software for easily creating and editing exams. Wolf Testing allows the user to create an exam from a database of questions, view it on screen, and easily print it along with the corresponding answer guide. The questions can be multiple choice, short answer, long answer, or true and false varieties. This software can be accessed securely from any location, allowing the user to easily create exams from home. New questions, which can include associated pictures, can be added through a web-interface. After adding in questions, they can be edited, deleted, or duplicated into multiple versions. Long-term test creation is simplified, as you are able to quickly see what questions you have asked in the past and insert them, with or without editing, into future tests. All tests are archived in the database. Written in PHP and MySQL, this software can be installed on any UNIX / Linux platform, including Macintosh OS X. The secure interface keeps students out, and allows you to decide who can create tests and who can edit information already in the database. Tests can be output as either html with pictures or rich text without pictures, and there are plans to add PDF and MS Word formats as well. We would like to thank Dr. Wolfgang Rueckner and the Harvard University Science Center for providing incentive to start this project, computers and resources to complete this project, and inspiration for the project's name. We would also like to thank Dr. Ronald Newburgh for his assistance in beta testing.

  10. The micronucleus test-most widely used in vivo genotoxicity test.

    PubMed

    Hayashi, Makoto

    2016-01-01

    Genotoxicity is commonly evaluated during the chemical safety assessment together with other toxicological endpoints. The micronucleus test is always included in many genotoxic test guidelines for long time in many classes of chemicals, e.g., pharmaceutical chemicals, agricultural chemicals, food additives. Although the trend of the safety assessment of chemicals faces to animal welfare and in vitro systems are more welcome than the in vivo systems, the in vivo test systems are paid more attention in the field of genotoxicity because of its weight of evidence. In this review, I will summarize the following points: 1) historical consideration of the test development, 2) characteristics of the test including advantages and limitations, 3) new approaches considering to the animal welfare.

  11. Perioperative Anaphylaxis Including Kounis Syndrome due to Selective Cefazolin Allergy.

    PubMed

    Mota, Inês; Gaspar, Ângela; Morais-Almeida, Mário

    2018-06-18

    Perioperative use of cefazolin has been associated with severe allergic reactions, and patients are usually labelled as allergic to penicillin afterwards. The aim of our study was to describe a group of patients with immediate reactions to cefazolin, with proven selective hypersensitivity reactions. Systematic review of all patients followed at our drug centre with cefazolin-related reactions, between January 2012 and December 2016. All patients were investigated according to the European Network for Drug Allergy (ENDA) recommendations through skin testing (major and minor penicillin determinants, penicillin, amoxicillin, cefazolin, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone) and oral challenges tests. We included 7 patients (median age 40 years) with perioperative anaphylactic reactions immediately after cefazolin injection, 4 with hypotension and 1 with Kounis syndrome (KS) type I. The presence of a selective IgE-mediated hypersensitivity through positive skin tests to cefazoline has been proven in all patients. Two patients experienced systemic reactions during skin testing. All patients were successfully challenged with amoxicillin, and they tolerated cefuroxime. Cefazolin can be responsible for immediate severe allergic reactions in perioperative setting, including KS. Allergological workup is essential for an accurate diagnosis and to explore cross-reactivity between cefazolin and other beta-lactams. Our experience confirmed that patients with IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions to cefazolin can tolerate other beta-lactams. This selective pattern of clinical reactivity may be explained by its particular chemical structure, whose R1 side-chain is different from other beta-lactams. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  12. Historic tests

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2012-08-16

    Two large-engine tests were conducted simultaneously for the first time at Stennis Space Center on Aug. 16. A plume on the left indicates a test on the facility's E-1 Test Stand. On the right, a finger of fire indicates a test under way on the A-1 Test Stand. In another first, both tests were conducted by female engineers. The image was taken from atop the facility's A-2 Test Stand, offering a panoramic view that includes the new A-3 Test Stand under construction to the left.

  13. Tunable microwave generation based on frequency quadrupling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yu-Lei; Liang, Jun; Li, Xuan; Xiao, Nan; Yuan, Xiao-Gang

    2018-07-01

    To generate linearly chirped microwave signals with large frequency tunable range, a photonic approach is proposed. A dual-output dual-parallel Mach-Zehnder modulator followed by a polarisation beam combiner and an optical filter are utilised to generate orthogonally polarised ± second-order optical sidebands. A polarisation modulator is employed to achieve phase modulation of the two wavelengths. The balanced detection is applied to suppress the distortion and background noise. The central frequency of the generated signal is four times that of the local oscillator frequency. Simulation results show that a linear pulse is produced with time-bandwidth as well as a compression ratio for the pulse of 11 and 9.3 respectively. Moreover, a peak-to-sidelobe ratio of 7.4 dB is generated. The system has both good reconfigurability and tunability, and its frequency can be continuously adjusted from about 10 GHz to as much as 50 GHz in principle.

  14. ETR BUILDING, TRA642. SOUTH SIDE VIEW INCLUDES SOUTH SIDES OF ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    ETR BUILDING, TRA-642. SOUTH SIDE VIEW INCLUDES SOUTH SIDES OF ETR BUILDING (HIGH ROOF LINE); ELECTRICAL BUILDING (ONE-STORY, MADE OF PUMICE BLOCKS), TRA-648; AND HEAT EXCHANGER BUILDING (WITH BUILDING NUMBERS), TRA-644. NOTE PROJECTION OF ELECTRICAL BUILDING AT LEFT EDGE OF VIEW. CAMERA FACES NORTH. INL NEGATIVE NO. HD46-37-3. Mike Crane, Photographer, 4/2005 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Reactor Area, Materials & Engineering Test Reactors, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  15. Testing: Let's Put It to the Test.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miller, Phyllis, Ed.

    2000-01-01

    In this journal issue, articles examine various aspects of testing intelligence, creativity, and psychopathology. Featured articles include: (1) "Monglottosis: What's Wrong with the Idea of IQ Meritocracy and Its Racy Cousins?" (Johan W. Oller, Jr.), which shows empirically and theoretically that even nonverbal IQ tests mainly measure powers of…

  16. Cryogenic testing of Planck sorption cooler test facility

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhang, B.; Pearson, D.; Borders, J.; Franklin, B.; Prina, M.; Hardy, J.; Crumb, D.

    2004-01-01

    A test facility has been upgraded in preparation for testing of two hydrogen sorption cryocoolers operating at 18/20 K. these sorption coolers are currently under development at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This work summarizes the scope of the test facility upgrade, including design for cryogenic cooling power delivery, system thermal management, insulation schemes, and data acquisition techniques. Ground support equipment for the sorption coolers, structural features of the test chamber, and the vacuum system involved for system testing will also be described in detail.

  17. A Boilerplate Capsule Test Technique for the Orion Parachute Test Program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, James W.; Fraire, Usbaldo, Jr.

    2013-01-01

    The test program developing parachutes for the Orion/MPCV includes drop tests of a Parachute Test Vehicle designed to emulate the wake of the Orion capsule. Delivery of this test vehicle to the initial velocity, altitude, and orientation required for the test is a difficult problem involving multiple engineering disciplines. The available delivery of aircraft options imposed constraints on the test vehicle development and concept of operations. This paper describes the development of this test technique. The engineering challenges include the extraction from an aircraft and separation of two aerodynamically unstable vehicles, one of which will be delivered to a specific orientation with reasonably small rates. The desired attitude is achieved by precisely targeting the separation point using on-board monitoring of the motion. The design of the test vehicle is described. The trajectory simulations and other analyses used to develop this technique and predict the behavior of the test article are reviewed in detail. The application of the technique on several successful drop tests is summarized.

  18. Kidney Tests

    MedlinePlus

    ... taking out waste products and making urine. Kidney tests check to see how well your kidneys are working. They include blood, urine, and imaging tests. Early kidney disease usually does not have signs ...

  19. IET area plot and utilities plan. Includes drainage. Ralph M. ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    IET area plot and utilities plan. Includes drainage. Ralph M. Parsons 902-4-ANP-U-310. Date: February 1954. Approved by INEEL Classification Office for public release. INEEL code no. 035-0100-00-693-106898 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Area North, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  20. Political violence and child adjustment in Northern Ireland: Testing pathways in a social-ecological model including single-and two-parent families.

    PubMed

    Cummings, E Mark; Schermerhorn, Alice C; Merrilees, Christine E; Goeke-Morey, Marcie C; Shirlow, Peter; Cairns, Ed

    2010-07-01

    Moving beyond simply documenting that political violence negatively impacts children, we tested a social-ecological hypothesis for relations between political violence and child outcomes. Participants were 700 mother-child (M = 12.1 years, SD = 1.8) dyads from 18 working-class, socially deprived areas in Belfast, Northern Ireland, including single- and two-parent families. Sectarian community violence was associated with elevated family conflict and children's reduced security about multiple aspects of their social environment (i.e., family, parent-child relations, and community), with links to child adjustment problems and reductions in prosocial behavior. By comparison, and consistent with expectations, links with negative family processes, child regulatory problems, and child outcomes were less consistent for nonsectarian community violence. Support was found for a social-ecological model for relations between political violence and child outcomes among both single- and two-parent families, with evidence that emotional security and adjustment problems were more negatively affected in single-parent families. The implications for understanding social ecologies of political violence and children's functioning are discussed.

  1. Political violence and child adjustment in Northern Ireland: Testing pathways in a social ecological model including single and two-parent families

    PubMed Central

    Cummings, E. Mark; Schermerhorn, Alice C.; Merrilees, Christine E.; Goeke-Morey, Marcie C.; Shirlow, Peter; Cairns, Ed

    2013-01-01

    Moving beyond simply documenting that political violence negatively impacts children, a social ecological hypothesis for relations between political violence and child outcomes was tested. Participants were 700 mother-child (M=12.1years, SD=1.8) dyads from 18 working class, socially deprived areas in Belfast, Northern Ireland, including single- and two-parent families. Sectarian community violence was associated with elevated family conflict and children’s reduced security about multiple aspects of their social environment (i.e., family, parent-child relations, and community), with links to child adjustment problems and reductions in prosocial behavior. By comparison, and consistent with expectations, links with negative family processes, child regulatory problems and child outcomes were less consistent for nonsectarian community violence. Support was found for a social ecological model for relations between political violence and child outcomes among both single and two parent families, with evidence that emotional security and adjustment problems were more negatively affected in single-parent families. The implications for understanding social ecologies of political violence and children’s functioning are discussed. PMID:20604605

  2. Validating use of a critical thinking test for the dental admission test.

    PubMed

    Tsai, Tsung-Hsun

    2014-04-01

    The purpose of this study was to validate the use of a test to assess dental school applicants' critical thinking abilities. The intent was to include this test on the Dental Admission Test (DAT) if it was shown to enhance the DAT's validity. Correlation and regression analyses of undergraduate and dental school performance with scores on each of the tests on the DAT battery and the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) were performed. Data were collected from 439 third- and fourth-year dental students who consented to participate and were enrolled at one of the ten accredited dental schools included in the study. These ten dental schools were from most regions of the United States. This study concluded that including the CCTST on the DAT did not significantly enhance the DAT's validity.

  3. Track-train dynamic analysis and test program, truck static test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nemes, A. G.

    1974-01-01

    A series of tests were conducted to define the characteristics of an ASF 11 Ride Truck Assembly including joint slop, friction and stiffness. Loading to the truck assembly included vertical load to simulate the car/pool loading combined with lateral or moment loading that resulted in desired truck deflections for the various phases of testing. All seven test conditions were successfully completed with load and deflection data being collected. No attempt is made to reduce the applicable data other than to provide computer plots.

  4. Test Review: Wilkinson, G. S., & Robertson, G. J. (2006). Wide Range Achievement Test--Fourth Edition. Lutz, FL: Psychological Assessment Resources. WRAT4 Introductory Kit (Includes Manual, 25 Test/Response Forms [Blue and Green], and Accompanying Test Materials): $243.00

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dell, Cindy Ann; Harrold, Barbara; Dell, Thomas

    2008-01-01

    The Wide Range Achievement Test-Fourth Edition (WRAT4) is designed to provide "a quick, simple, psychometrically sound assessment of academic skills". The test was first published in 1946 by Joseph F. Jastak, with the purpose of augmenting the cognitive performance measures of the Wechsler-Bellevue Scales, developed by David Wechsler.…

  5. CONTROL ROOM WITH SPRINKLER SYSTEM CONTROLS, INCLUDING MANUAL CONTROL BOXES ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    CONTROL ROOM WITH SPRINKLER SYSTEM CONTROLS, INCLUDING MANUAL CONTROL BOXES FOR THE VENTILATION SYSTEM AND A PLC SWITCH FOR AUTOMATIC CO (CARBON MONOXIDE) SYSTEM. THE AIR TESTING SYSTEM IS FREE STANDING AND THE FANS ARE COMPUTER-OPERATED. - Alaskan Way Viaduct and Battery Street Tunnel, Seattle, King County, WA

  6. Systems special investigation group overview

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mason, James B.; Dursch, Harry; Edelman, Joel

    1992-01-01

    The Systems Special Investigation Group (SIG) has undertaken investigations in the four major engineering disciplines represented by LDEF hardware: electrical, mechanical, thermal, and optical systems. Testing was planned for the highest possible level of assembly, and top level system tests for nearly all systems were performed at this time. Testing to date was performed on a mix of LDEF and individual experimenter systems. No electrical or mechanical system level failures attributed to the spaceflight environment were detected by the Systems SIG. Some low cost electrical components were used successfully, although relays were a continuing problem. Extensive mechanical galling was observed, but no evidence of coldwelding was identified. A working index of observed systems anomalies was created and will be used to support the tracking and resolution of these effects. LDEF hardware currently available to the Systems SIG includes most of the LDEF facility systems hardware, and some significant experimenter hardware as well. A series of work packages was developed for each of several subsystem types where further testing is of critical interest. The Systems SIG is distributing a regular newsletter to the greater LDEF community in order to maintain coherence in an investigation which is widely scattered both in subject matter and in geography. Circulation of this informal document has quadrupled in its first year.

  7. Corrective Action Investigation Plan for Corrective Action Unit 410: Waste Disposal Trenches, Tonopah Test Range, Nevada, Revision 0 (includes ROTCs 1, 2, and 3)

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

    NNSA /NV

    This Corrective Action Investigation Plan contains the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Operations Office's approach to collect the data necessary to evaluate corrective action alternatives appropriate for the closure of Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 410 under the Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order. Corrective Action Unit 410 is located on the Tonopah Test Range (TTR), which is included in the Nevada Test and Training Range (formerly the Nellis Air Force Range) approximately 140 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada. This CAU is comprised of five Corrective Action Sites (CASs): TA-19-002-TAB2, Debris Mound; TA-21-003-TANL, Disposal Trench; TA-21-002-TAAL,more » Disposal Trench; 09-21-001-TA09, Disposal Trenches; 03-19-001, Waste Disposal Site. This CAU is being investigated because contaminants may be present in concentrations that could potentially pose a threat to human health and/or the environment, and waste may have been disposed of with out appropriate controls. Four out of five of these CASs are the result of weapons testing and disposal activities at the TTR, and they are grouped together for site closure based on the similarity of the sites (waste disposal sites and trenches). The fifth CAS, CAS 03-19-001, is a hydrocarbon spill related to activities in the area. This site is grouped with this CAU because of the location (TTR). Based on historical documentation and process know-ledge, vertical and lateral migration routes are possible for all CASs. Migration of contaminants may have occurred through transport by infiltration of precipitation through surface soil which serves as a driving force for downward migration of contaminants. Land-use scenarios limit future use of these CASs to industrial activities. The suspected contaminants of potential concern which have been identified are volatile organic compounds; semivolatile organic compounds; high explosives; radiological constituents including depleted

  8. Results of a Saxitoxin Proficiency Test Including Characterization of Reference Material and Stability Studies

    PubMed Central

    Harju, Kirsi; Rapinoja, Marja-Leena; Avondet, Marc-André; Arnold, Werner; Schär, Martin; Luginbühl, Werner; Kremp, Anke; Suikkanen, Sanna; Kankaanpää, Harri; Burrell, Stephen; Söderström, Martin; Vanninen, Paula

    2015-01-01

    A saxitoxin (STX) proficiency test (PT) was organized as part of the Establishment of Quality Assurance for the Detection of Biological Toxins of Potential Bioterrorism Risk (EQuATox) project. The aim of this PT was to provide an evaluation of existing methods and the European laboratories’ capabilities for the analysis of STX and some of its analogues in real samples. Homogenized mussel material and algal cell materials containing paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins were produced as reference sample matrices. The reference material was characterized using various analytical methods. Acidified algal extract samples at two concentration levels were prepared from a bulk culture of PSP toxins producing dinoflagellate Alexandrium ostenfeldii. The homogeneity and stability of the prepared PT samples were studied and found to be fit-for-purpose. Thereafter, eight STX PT samples were sent to ten participating laboratories from eight countries. The PT offered the participating laboratories the possibility to assess their performance regarding the qualitative and quantitative detection of PSP toxins. Various techniques such as official Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods, immunoassays, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry were used for sample analyses. PMID:26602927

  9. Test 6, Test 7, and Gas Standard Analysis Results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Perez, Horacio, III

    2007-01-01

    This viewgraph presentation shows results of analyses on odor, toxic off gassing and gas standards. The topics include: 1) Statistical Analysis Definitions; 2) Odor Analysis Results NASA Standard 6001 Test 6; 3) Toxic Off gassing Analysis Results NASA Standard 6001 Test 7; and 4) Gas Standard Results NASA Standard 6001 Test 7;

  10. Science Library of Test Items. Volume Eleven. Mastery Testing Programme. [Mastery Tests Series 3.] Tests M27-M38.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New South Wales Dept. of Education, Sydney (Australia).

    As part of a series of tests to measure mastery of specific skills in the natural sciences, copies of tests 27 through 38 include: (27) reading a grid plan; (28) identifying common invertebrates; (29) characteristics of invertebrates; (30) identifying elements; (31) using scientific notation part I; (32) classifying minerals; (33) predicting the…

  11. Hepatitis Testing

    MedlinePlus

    ... They include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. To diagnose hepatitis, your health care provider will ask you about your medical history and symptoms, do a physical exam, and order blood tests. There are blood tests ...

  12. Generalized fluid theory including non-Maxwellian kinetic effects

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

    Izacard, Olivier

    The results obtained by the plasma physics community for the validation and the prediction of turbulence and transport in magnetized plasmas come mainly from the use of very central processing unit (CPU)-consuming particle-in-cell or (gyro)kinetic codes which naturally include non-Maxwellian kinetic effects. To date, fluid codes are not considered to be relevant for the description of these kinetic effects. Here, after revisiting the limitations of the current fluid theory developed in the 19th century, we generalize the fluid theory including kinetic effects such as non-Maxwellian super-thermal tails with as few fluid equations as possible. The collisionless and collisional fluid closuresmore » from the nonlinear Landau Fokker–Planck collision operator are shown for an arbitrary collisionality. Indeed, the first fluid models associated with two examples of collisionless fluid closures are obtained by assuming an analytic non-Maxwellian distribution function. One of the main differences with the literature is our analytic representation of the distribution function in the velocity phase space with as few hidden variables as possible thanks to the use of non-orthogonal basis sets. These new non-Maxwellian fluid equations could initiate the next generation of fluid codes including kinetic effects and can be expanded to other scientific disciplines such as astrophysics, condensed matter or hydrodynamics. As a validation test, we perform a numerical simulation based on a minimal reduced INMDF fluid model. The result of this test is the discovery of the origin of particle and heat diffusion. The diffusion is due to the competition between a growing INMDF on short time scales due to spatial gradients and the thermalization on longer time scales. Here, the results shown here could provide the insights to break some of the unsolved puzzles of turbulence.« less

  13. Generalized fluid theory including non-Maxwellian kinetic effects

    DOE PAGES

    Izacard, Olivier

    2017-03-29

    The results obtained by the plasma physics community for the validation and the prediction of turbulence and transport in magnetized plasmas come mainly from the use of very central processing unit (CPU)-consuming particle-in-cell or (gyro)kinetic codes which naturally include non-Maxwellian kinetic effects. To date, fluid codes are not considered to be relevant for the description of these kinetic effects. Here, after revisiting the limitations of the current fluid theory developed in the 19th century, we generalize the fluid theory including kinetic effects such as non-Maxwellian super-thermal tails with as few fluid equations as possible. The collisionless and collisional fluid closuresmore » from the nonlinear Landau Fokker–Planck collision operator are shown for an arbitrary collisionality. Indeed, the first fluid models associated with two examples of collisionless fluid closures are obtained by assuming an analytic non-Maxwellian distribution function. One of the main differences with the literature is our analytic representation of the distribution function in the velocity phase space with as few hidden variables as possible thanks to the use of non-orthogonal basis sets. These new non-Maxwellian fluid equations could initiate the next generation of fluid codes including kinetic effects and can be expanded to other scientific disciplines such as astrophysics, condensed matter or hydrodynamics. As a validation test, we perform a numerical simulation based on a minimal reduced INMDF fluid model. The result of this test is the discovery of the origin of particle and heat diffusion. The diffusion is due to the competition between a growing INMDF on short time scales due to spatial gradients and the thermalization on longer time scales. Here, the results shown here could provide the insights to break some of the unsolved puzzles of turbulence.« less

  14. Antimicrobial effects of a new therapeutic liquid dentifrice formulation on oral bacteria including odorigenic species.

    PubMed

    Sreenivasan, P K; Furgang, D; Zhang, Y; DeVizio, W; Fine, D H

    2005-03-01

    The control of oral malodor is well-recognized in efforts to improve oral health. Antimicrobial formulations can mitigate oral malodor, however, procedures to assess effects on oral bacteria including those implicated in halitosis are unavailable. This investigation examined the antimicrobial effects of a new liquid triclosan/copolymer dentifrice (test) formulation that demonstrated significant inhibition of oral malodor in previous organoleptic clinical studies. Procedures compared antimicrobial effects of the test and control formulations on a range of oral micro-organisms including members implicated in halitosis, substantive antimicrobial effects of formulations with hydroxyapatite as a surrogate for human teeth and ex vivo effects on oral bacteria from human volunteers. With Actinomyces viscosus, as a model system, the test formulation demonstrated a dose-dependent effect. At these concentrations the test formulation provided significant antimicrobial effects on 13 strains of oral bacteria including those implicated in bad breath at selected posttreatment time points. Treatment of hydroxyapatite by the test dentifrice resulted in a significant and substantive antimicrobial effect vs. controls. Oral bacteria from subjects treated ex vivo with the test dentifrice resulted in significant reductions in cultivable oral bacteria and odorigenic bacteria producing hydrogen sulfide. In summary, microbiological methods adapted to study odorigenic bacteria demonstrate the significant antimicrobial effects of the test (triclosan/copolymer) dentifrice with laboratory and clinical strains of oral bacteria implicated in bad breath.

  15. Liver function tests

    MedlinePlus

    Liver function tests are common tests that are used to see how well the liver is working. Tests include: ... E, Bowne WB, Bluth MH. Evaluation of liver function. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical ...

  16. LOFT. "Exploded view" of loft containment building (TAN650), including control ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    LOFT. "Exploded view" of loft containment building (TAN-650), including control building (TAN-630). EG&G. February 1979. INEEL index code no. 036-010-65-220-209565 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Area North, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  17. Science Library of Test Items. Volume Ten. Mastery Testing Programme. [Mastery Tests Series 2.] Tests M14-M26.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New South Wales Dept. of Education, Sydney (Australia).

    As part of a series of tests to measure mastery of specific skills in the natural sciences, copies of tests 14 through 26 include: (14) calculating an average; (15) identifying parts of the scientific method; (16) reading a geological map; (17) identifying elements, mixtures and compounds; (18) using Ohm's law in calculation; (19) interpreting…

  18. Kidney function tests

    MedlinePlus

    Kidney function tests are common lab tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are working. Such tests include: ... Oh MS, Briefel G. Evaluation of renal function, water, electrolytes ... and Management by Laboratory Methods . 23rd ed. Philadelphia, ...

  19. Microfluidic System Simulation Including the Electro-Viscous Effect

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rojas, Eileen; Chen, C. P.; Majumdar, Alok

    2007-01-01

    This paper describes a practical approach using a general purpose lumped-parameter computer program, GFSSP (Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program) for calculating flow distribution in a network of micro-channels including electro-viscous effects due to the existence of electrical double layer (EDL). In this study, an empirical formulation for calculating an effective viscosity of ionic solutions based on dimensional analysis is described to account for surface charge and bulk fluid conductivity, which give rise to electro-viscous effect in microfluidics network. Two dimensional slit micro flow data was used to determine the model coefficients. Geometry effect is then included through a Poiseuille number correlation in GFSSP. The bi-power model was used to calculate flow distribution of isotropically etched straight channel and T-junction microflows involving ionic solutions. Performance of the proposed model is assessed against experimental test data.

  20. NASA Boeing 757 HIRF test series low power on-the-ground tests

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

    Poggio, A.J.; Pennock, S.T.; Zacharias, R.A.

    1996-08-01

    The data acquisition phase of a program intended to provide data for the validation of computational, analytical, and experimental techniques for the assessment of electromagnetic effects in commercial transports; for the checkout of instrumentation for following test programs; and for the support of protection engineering of airborne systems has been completed. Funded by the NASA Fly-By-Light/ Power-By-Wire Program, the initial phase involved on-the-ground electromagnetic measurements using the NASA Boeing 757 and was executed in the LESLI Facility at the USAF Phillips Laboratory. The major participants in this project were LLNL, NASA Langley Research Center, Phillips Laboratory, and UIE, Inc. Themore » tests were performed over a five week period during September through November, 1994. Measurements were made of the fields coupled into the aircraft interior and signals induced in select structures and equipment under controlled illumination by RF fields. A characterization of the ground was also performed to permit ground effects to be included in forthcoming validation exercises. This report and the associated test plan that is included as an appendix represent a definition of the overall on-the-ground test program. They include descriptions of the test rationale, test layout, and samples of the data. In this report, a detailed description of each executed test is provided, as is the data identification (data id) relating the specific test with its relevant data files. Samples of some inferences from the data that will be useful in protection engineering and EM effects mitigation are also presented. The test plan which guided the execution of the tests, a test report by UIE Inc., and the report describing the concrete pad characterization are included as appendices.« less

  1. Science Library of Test Items. Volume Thirteen. Mastery Testing Program. [Mastery Tests Series 5.] Tests M51-M65.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New South Wales Dept. of Education, Sydney (Australia).

    As part of a series of tests to measure mastery of specific skills in the natural sciences, copies of tests 51 through 65 include: (51) interpreting atomic and mass numbers; (52) extrapolating from a geological map; (53) matching geological sections and maps; (54) identifying parts of the human eye; (55) identifying the functions of parts of a…

  2. Testing methods and techniques: Environmental testing: A compilation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1971-01-01

    Various devices and techniques are described for testing hardware and components in four special environments: low temperature, high temperature, high pressure, and vibration. Items ranging from an automatic calibrator for pressure transducers to a fixture for testing the susceptibility of materials to ignition by electric spark are included.

  3. Testing Our Limits

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tempel, Melissa Bollow

    2012-01-01

    Computerized testing, including the widely used MAP test, has infiltrated the public schools in Milwaukee and across the nation, bringing with it a frightening future for public education. High-stakes standardized tests can be scored almost immediately via the internet, and testing companies can now easily link districts to their online data…

  4. 3D simulation of electron and ion transmission of GEM-based detectors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bhattacharya, Purba; Mohanty, Bedangadas; Mukhopadhyay, Supratik; Majumdar, Nayana; da Luz, Hugo Natal

    2017-10-01

    Time Projection Chamber (TPC) has been chosen as the main tracking system in several high-flux and high repetition rate experiments. These include on-going experiments such as ALICE and future experiments such as PANDA at FAIR and ILC. Different R&D activities were carried out on the adoption of Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM) as the gas amplification stage of the ALICE-TPC upgrade version. The requirement of low ion feedback has been established through these activities. Low ion feedback minimizes distortions due to space charge and maintains the necessary values of detector gain and energy resolution. In the present work, Garfield simulation framework has been used to study the related physical processes occurring within single, triple and quadruple GEM detectors. Ion backflow and electron transmission of quadruple GEMs, made up of foils with different hole pitch under different electromagnetic field configurations (the projected solutions for the ALICE TPC) have been studied. Finally a new triple GEM detector configuration with low ion backflow fraction and good electron transmission properties has been proposed as a simpler GEM-based alternative suitable for TPCs for future collider experiments.

  5. Organic Aerosols in the Presence of CO2 in the Early Earth and Exoplanets: UV-Vis Refractive Indices of Oxidized Tholins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gavilan, Lisseth; Broch, Laurent; Carrasco, Nathalie; Fleury, Benjamin; Vettier, Ludovic

    2017-10-01

    In this experimental study we investigate the role of atmospheric CO2 on the optical properties of organic photochemical aerosols. To this end, we add CO2 to a N2:CH4 gas mixture used in a plasma typically used for Titan studies. We produce organic thin films (tholins) in plasmas where the CO2/CH4 ratio is increased from 0 to 4. We measure these films via spectrometric ellipsometry and apply a Tauc-Lorentz model, used for optically transparent materials, to obtain the thickness of the thin film, its optical band gap, and the refractive indices in the UV-visible (270-600 nm). All samples present a significant absorption band in the UV. According to the Tauc-Lorentz model, as the CO2/CH4 ratio is quadrupled, the position of the UV band is shifted from ˜177 nm to 264 nm while its strength is quadrupled. Consequently, we infer that oxidized organic aerosols absorb more efficiently at longer UV wavelengths than reduced aerosols. Our laboratory wavelength-tabulated UV-vis refractive indices provide new constraints to atmospheric models of the early Earth and Earth-like exoplanets including photochemical hazes formed under increasingly oxidizing conditions.

  6. Propfan test assessment testbed aircraft flutter model test report

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jenness, C. M. J.

    1987-01-01

    The PropFan Test Assessment (PTA) program includes flight tests of a propfan power plant mounted on the left wind of a modified Gulfstream II testbed aircraft. A static balance boom is mounted on the right wing tip for lateral balance. Flutter analyses indicate that these installations reduce the wing flutter stabilizing speed and that torsional stiffening and the installation of a flutter stabilizing tip boom are required on the left wing for adequate flutter safety margins. Wind tunnel tests of a 1/9th scale high speed flutter model of the testbed aircraft were conducted. The test program included the design, fabrication, and testing of the flutter model and the correlation of the flutter test data with analysis results. Excellent correlations with the test data were achieved in posttest flutter analysis using actual model properties. It was concluded that the flutter analysis method used was capable of accurate flutter predictions for both the (symmetric) twin propfan configuration and the (unsymmetric) single propfan configuration. The flutter analysis also revealed that the differences between the tested model configurations and the current aircraft design caused the (scaled) model flutter speed to be significantly higher than that of the aircraft, at least for the single propfan configuration without a flutter boom. Verification of the aircraft final design should, therefore, be based on flutter predictions made with the test validated analysis methods.

  7. Blockage and flow studies of a generalized test apparatus including various wing configurations in the Langley 7-inch Mach 7 Pilot Tunnel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Albertson, C. W.

    1982-03-01

    A 1/12th scale model of the Curved Surface Test Apparatus (CSTA), which will be used to study aerothermal loads and evaluate Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) on a fuselage-type configuration in the Langley 8-Foot High Temperature Structures Tunnel (8 ft HTST), was tested in the Langley 7-Inch Mach 7 Pilot Tunnel. The purpose of the tests was to study the overall flow characteristics and define an envelope for testing the CSTA in the 8 ft HTST. Wings were tested on the scaled CSTA model to select a wing configuration with the most favorable characteristics for conducting TPS evaluations for curved and intersecting surfaces. The results indicate that the CSTA and selected wing configuration can be tested at angles of attack up to 15.5 and 10.5 degrees, respectively. The base pressure for both models was at the expected low level for most test conditions. Results generally indicate that the CSTA and wing configuration will provide a useful test bed for aerothermal pads and thermal structural concept evaluation over a broad range of flow conditions in the 8 ft HTST.

  8. Blockage and flow studies of a generalized test apparatus including various wing configurations in the Langley 7-inch Mach 7 Pilot Tunnel

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Albertson, C. W.

    1982-01-01

    A 1/12th scale model of the Curved Surface Test Apparatus (CSTA), which will be used to study aerothermal loads and evaluate Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) on a fuselage-type configuration in the Langley 8-Foot High Temperature Structures Tunnel (8 ft HTST), was tested in the Langley 7-Inch Mach 7 Pilot Tunnel. The purpose of the tests was to study the overall flow characteristics and define an envelope for testing the CSTA in the 8 ft HTST. Wings were tested on the scaled CSTA model to select a wing configuration with the most favorable characteristics for conducting TPS evaluations for curved and intersecting surfaces. The results indicate that the CSTA and selected wing configuration can be tested at angles of attack up to 15.5 and 10.5 degrees, respectively. The base pressure for both models was at the expected low level for most test conditions. Results generally indicate that the CSTA and wing configuration will provide a useful test bed for aerothermal pads and thermal structural concept evaluation over a broad range of flow conditions in the 8 ft HTST.

  9. Teaching beyond the Test: A Method for Designing Test-Preparation Classes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Derrick, Deirdre

    2013-01-01

    Test-preparation classes that focus on skills will benefit students beyond the test by developing skills they can use at university. This article discusses the purposes of various tests and outlines how to design effective test-prep classes. Several practical activities are included, and an appendix provides information on common standardized…

  10. Strength Testing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Londeree, Ben R.

    1981-01-01

    Postural deviations resulting from strength and flexibility imbalances include swayback, scoliosis, and rounded shoulders. Screening tests are one method for identifying strength problems. Tests for the evaluation of postural problems are described, and exercises are presented for the strengthening of muscles. (JN)

  11. Usefulness of In Vivo and In Vitro Diagnostic Tests in the Diagnosis of Hypersensitivity Reactions to Quinolones and in the Evaluation of Cross-Reactivity: A Comprehensive Study Including the Latest Quinolone Gemifloxacin

    PubMed Central

    Gelincik, Asli; Akdeniz, Nilgun; Aktas-Cetin, Esin; Olgac, Muge; Unal, Derya; Ertek, Belkis; Coskun, Raif; Colakoğlu, Bahattin; Deniz, Gunnur; Buyukozturk, Suna

    2017-01-01

    Purpose Reports evaluating diagnosis and cross reactivity of quinolone hypersensitivity have revealed contradictory results. Furthermore, there are no reports investigating the cross-reactivity between gemifloxacin (GFX) and the others. We aimed to detect the usefulness of diagnostic tests of hypersensitivity reactions to quinolones and to evaluate the cross reactivity between different quinolones including the latest quinolone GFX. Methods We studied 54 patients (mean age 42.31±10.39 years; 47 female) with 57 hypersensitivity reactions due to different quinolones and 10 nonatopic quinolone tolerable control subjects. A detailed clinical history, skin test (ST), and single-blind placebo-controlled drug provocation test (SBPCDPT), as well as basophil activation test (BAT) and lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) were performed with the culprit and alternative quinolones including ciprofloxacin (CFX), moxifloxacin (MFX), levofloxacin (LFX), ofloxacin (OFX), and GFX. Results The majority (75.9%) of the patients reported immediate type reactions to various quinolones. The most common culprit drug was CFX (52.6%) and the most common reaction type was urticaria (26.3%). A quarter of the patients (24.1%) reacted to SBPCDPTs, although their STs were negative; while false ST positivity was 3.5% and ST/SBPCDPTs concordance was only 1.8%. Both BAT and LTT were not found useful in quinolone hypersensitivity. Cross-reactivity was primarily observed between LFX and OFX (50.0%), whereas it was the least between MFX and the others, and in GFX hypersensitive patients the degree of cross-reactivity to the other quinolones was 16.7%. Conclusions These results suggest that STs, BAT, and LTT are not supportive in the diagnosis of a hypersensitivity reaction to quinolone as well as in the prediction of cross-reactivity. Drug provocation tests (DPTs) are necessary to identify both culprit and alternative quinolones. PMID:28497922

  12. Nosographic analysis of osmophobia and field testing of diagnostic criteria including osmophobia.

    PubMed

    Chalmer, Mona Ameri; Hansen, Thomas Folkmann; Olesen, Jes

    2018-01-01

    Introduction Osmophobia has been suggested as an additional symptom of migraine without aura, and a high prevalence of osmophobia of up to 50% has been reported in the literature. We conducted a nosographic study of osmophobia in all migraineurs and tension-type headache patients and a field testing of suggested diagnostic criteria of osmophobia, presented in the appendix of the second edition of The International Classification of Headache Disorders and suggested by Silva-Néto et al. and Wang et al ., in migraine without aura and tension-type headache patients (n = 1934). Materials and methods Each patient received a validated semi-structured interview. All subjects fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of the second edition of The International Classification of Headache Disorders for migraine or tension-type headache. Statistical analyses were performed using statistical software R. The statistical R package "Caret" was used to construct a confusion matrix and retrieve sensitivity, which is defined as the suggested criteria's ability to correctly diagnose migraine without aura patients, and specificity, defined as the suggested criteria's ability to not wrongly diagnose tension-type headache patients. Results Osmophobia was present in 33.5% of patients with migraine with aura, in 36.0% of patients with migraine without aura, and in 1.2% of patients with tension-type headache. All migraineurs with osmophobia also fulfilled the current criteria for migraine by having nausea or photophobia and phonophobia. The appendix criteria had a sensitivity of 0.96 and a specificity of 0.99 for migraine without aura, and a sensitivity of 0.65 and a specificity of 0.99 for probable migraine without aura. Both the criteria by Silva-Néto et al. and Wang et al. had a sensitivity of 0.98 and a specificity of 0.99 for migraine without aura, and a sensitivity of 0.66 and a specificity of 0.99 for probable migraine without aura. Discussion This study demonstrates the remarkable

  13. Test procedures and data input techniques for skid testing.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1974-01-01

    The purpose of this report is to describe the system for obtaining and handling skid data, including skid testing procedures and data input procedures. While all testing devices used in Virginia are covered (other than the British portable tester), t...

  14. Adhesion testing device

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    LaPeyronnie, Glenn M. (Inventor); Huff, Charles M. (Inventor)

    2010-01-01

    The present invention provides a testing apparatus and method for testing the adhesion of a coating to a surface. The invention also includes an improved testing button or dolly for use with the testing apparatus and a self aligning button hook or dolly interface on the testing apparatus. According to preferred forms, the apparatus and method of the present invention are simple, portable, battery operated rugged, and inexpensive to manufacture and use, are readily adaptable to a wide variety of uses, and provide effective and accurate testing results. The device includes a linear actuator driven by an electric motor coupled to the actuator through a gearbox and a rotatable shaft. The electronics for the device are contained in the head section of the device. At the contact end of the device, is positioned a self aligning button hook, attached below the load cell located on the actuator shaft.

  15. Clinician-friendly lower extremity physical performance tests in athletes: a systematic review of measurement properties and correlation with injury. Part 2--the tests for the hip, thigh, foot and ankle including the star excursion balance test.

    PubMed

    Hegedus, Eric J; McDonough, Suzanne M; Bleakley, Chris; Baxter, David; Cook, Chad E

    2015-05-01

    To review the quality of literature and measurement properties of physical performance tests (PPTs) of the lower extremity in athletes. Using the PICOS method we established our research question as to whether individual PPTs of the lower extremity have any relationship to injury in competitive athletes ages 12 years to adult (no limit). A search strategy was constructed by combining the terms 'lower extremity' and synonyms for 'performance test' and names of performance tests with variants of the term 'athlete'. After examining the knee in part 1 of this 2 part series, the current report focuses on findings in the rest of the lower extremity. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed and the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist was used to critique the methodological quality of each paper. A second measure was used to analyse the quality of the measurement properties of each test. Thirty-one articles examined the measurement properties of 14 PPTs pertaining to the lower extremity. The terminology used to name and describe the tests and methodology by which the tests were conducted was inconsistent. The star excursion balance test performed in three directions (anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral) appears to be the only test to be associated with increased injury risk. There is moderate evidence that the one leg hop for distance and the hexagon hop can distinguish between normal and unstable ankles. There is also moderate evidence that the medial hop can distinguish between painful and normal hips in dancers. Currently, there is relatively limited research-backed information on PPTs of the lower extremity in athletes. We would suggest convening an international consortium comprised of experts in sports to standardise the descriptions and methodologies, and to set forth a research agenda to establish definitively the measurement

  16. On-Chip AC self-test controller

    DOEpatents

    Flanagan, John D [Rhinebeck, NY; Herring, Jay R [Poughkeepsie, NY; Lo, Tin-Chee [Fishkill, NY

    2009-09-29

    A system for performing AC self-test on an integrated circuit that includes a system clock for normal operation is provided. The system includes the system clock, self-test circuitry, a first and second test register to capture and launch test data in response to a sequence of data pulses, and a logic circuit to be tested. The self-test circuitry includes an AC self-test controller and a clock splitter. The clock splitter generates the sequence of data pulses including a long data capture pulse followed by an at speed data launch pulse and an at speed data capture pulse followed by a long data launch pulse. The at speed data launch pulse and the at speed data capture pulse are generated for a common cycle of the system clock.

  17. Status of the irradiation test vehicle for testing fusion materials in the Advanced Test Reactor

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

    Tsai, H.; Gomes, I.C.; Smith, D.L.

    1998-09-01

    The design of the irradiation test vehicle (ITV) for the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) has been completed. The main application for the ITV is irradiation testing of candidate fusion structural materials, including vanadium-base alloys, silicon carbide composites, and low-activation steels. Construction of the vehicle is underway at the Lockheed Martin Idaho Technology Company (LMITCO). Dummy test trains are being built for system checkout and fine-tuning. Reactor insertion of the ITV with the dummy test trains is scheduled for fall 1998. Barring unexpected difficulties, the ITV will be available for experiments in early 1999.

  18. Science Library of Test Items. Volume Twelve. Mastery Testing Programme. [Mastery Tests Series 4.] Tests M39-M50.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New South Wales Dept. of Education, Sydney (Australia).

    As part of a series of tests to measure mastery of specific skills in the natural sciences, copies of tests 39 through 50 include: (39) using a code; (40) naming the parts of a microscope; (41) calculating density and predicting flotation; (42) estimating metric length; (43) using SI symbols; (44) using s=vt; (45) applying a novel theory; (46)…

  19. Diagnostic Testing and Interpretation of Tests for Autoimmunity

    PubMed Central

    Castro, Christine; Gourley, Mark

    2010-01-01

    Laboratory testing is of great value when evaluating a patient with a suspected autoimmune disease. The results can confirm a diagnosis, estimate disease severity, aid in assessing prognosis and are useful to follow disease activity. Components of the laboratory exam include complete blood count with differential, comprehensive metabolic panel, inflammatory markers, autoantibodies, and flow cytometry. This chapter discusses these components and includes a discussion about organ-specific immunologic diseases where immunological laboratory testing is employed. Comprehensive laboratory evaluation of a suspected autoimmune illness in conjunction with a thorough clinical evaluation provides a better understanding of a patient's immunologic disease. PMID:20061009

  20. Testing Historical Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baillie, Ray

    1980-01-01

    Outlines methods for including skill testing in teacher-made history tests. Focuses on distinguishing fact and fiction, evaluating the reliability of a source, distinguishing between primary and secondary sources, recognizing statements which support generalizations, testing with media, mapping geo-politics, and applying knowledge to new…

  1. Second-line therapy with levofloxacin after failure of treatment to eradicate helicobacter pylori infection: time trends in a Spanish Multicenter Study of 1000 patients.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Pérez-Aisa, Angeles; Bermejo, Fernando; Castro-Fernández, Manuel; Almela, Pedro; Barrio, Jesús; Cosme, Angel; Modolell, Inés; Bory, Felipe; Fernández-Bermejo, Miguel; Rodrigo, Luis; Ortuño, Jesús; Sánchez-Pobre, Pilar; Khorrami, Sam; Franco, Alejandro; Tomas, Albert; Guerra, Iván; Lamas, Eloisa; Ponce, Julio; Calvet, Xavier

    2013-02-01

    Second-line bismuth-containing quadruple therapy is complex and frequently induces adverse effects. A triple rescue regimen containing levofloxacin is a potential alternative; however, resistance to quinolones is rapidly increasing. To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a second-line triple-regimen-containing levofloxacin in patients whose Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment failed and to assess whether the efficacy of the regimen decreases with time. Prospective multicenter study. In whom treatment with a regimen comprising a proton-pump inhibitor, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin had failed. Levofloxacin (500 mg bid), amoxicillin (1 g bid), and omeprazole (20 mg bid) for 10 days. Eradication was confirmed using the C-urea breath test 4 to 8 weeks after therapy. Compliance/tolerance: Compliance was determined through questioning and recovery of empty medication envelopes. Incidence of adverse effects was evaluated by means of a questionnaire. The study sample comprised 1000 consecutive patients (mean age, 49 ± 15 y, 42% men, 33% peptic ulcer) of whom 97% took all medications correctly. Per-protocol and intention-to-treat eradication rates were 75.1% (95% confidence interval, 72%-78%) and 73.8% (95% confidence interval, 71%-77%). Efficacy (intention-to-treat) was 76% in the year 2006, 68% in 2007, 70% in 2008, 76% in 2009, 74% in 2010, and 81% in 2011. In the multivariate analysis, none of the studied variables (including diagnosis and year of treatment) were associated with success of eradication. Adverse effects were reported in 20% of patients, most commonly nausea (7.9%), metallic taste (3.9%), myalgia (3.1%), and abdominal pain (2.9%). Ten-day levofloxacin-containing therapy is an encouraging second-line strategy, providing a safe and simple alternative to quadruple therapy in patients whose previous standard triple therapy has failed. The efficacy of this regimen remains stable with time.

  2. Studies of charge transport in DNA films using the time-of-flight (TOF) technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yaney, Perry P.; Gorman, Timothy; Ouchen, Fahima; Grote, James G.

    2011-09-01

    Measurements were carried out on salmon DNA-based films, including as-received DNA (molecular weight, MW>2000 kDa) without and with hexacetyltrimethl-ammonium chloride (CTMA) surfactant, and sonicated DNA of MW~200 kDa with CTMA. The test specimens were spin-coated or drop-cast films on ITO-coated quartz slides with a gold charge-collecting electrode. To protect the films from atmospheric influences, the TOF devices were coated with a 200-400 nm polyurethane passivation layer. A quadrupled 20 ns, pulsed Nd:YAG laser with output at 266 nm was used for charge injection. The room temperature photoconductive transients were dispersive to varying degrees with hole mobilities in DNA materials films ranging between 2E-5 to 6E-3 cm2/Vs for fields ranging from 8 to 58 kV/cm. Only hole response was observed in DNA. The dispersive data were analyzed using a simple, quasi-empirical equation for the photocurrent transient data.

  3. Evaluation of the bioNexia Legionella Test, Including Impact of Incubation Time Extension, for Detection of Legionella pneumophila Serogroup 1 Antigen in Urine.

    PubMed

    Badoux, Paul; Euser, Sjoerd M; Bruin, Jacob P; Mulder, Patrick P G; Yzerman, Ed P F

    2017-06-01

    In this study, we compared the bioNexia test (bioMérieux, Marcy-l'Étoile, France), a new immunochromatographic assay for the detection of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 in urine, with the BinaxNOW urinary antigen test (Alere, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA). After 15 min of incubation (in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions), the sensitivities and specificities were, respectively, 76.5% and 97.2% for the bioNexia test and 87.1% and 100% for the BinaxNOW test. After a prolonged incubation time of 60 min, the sensitivities and specificities increased to, respectively, 89.4% and 97.2% for the bioNexia test and 91.8% and 100% for the BinaxNOW test. When the tests were read after 15 min, the concentration of discrepant urine samples increased the sensitivities to 94.1% for both tests. In conclusion, we found that although the bioNexia test showed lower sensitivity for the detection of L. pneumophila antigen in nonconcentrated urine compared to the BinaxNOW test, a prolonged incubation time as well as the use of concentrated samples showed comparable sensitivities for both tests. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

  4. 30 CFR 250.241 - What must the DPP or DOCD include?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... and production activities include: (1) Development drilling; (2) Well test flaring; (3) Installation... production operations. (b) Location. The location and water depth of each of your proposed wells and... proposed well, the surface location of each production facility, and the locations of all associated...

  5. Towards the SQL: Status of the direct thermal-noise measurements at the ANU

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mow-Lowry, C. M.; Goßler, S.; Slagmolen, B. J. J.; Cumpston, J.; Gray, M. B.; McClelland, D. E.

    2006-03-01

    We present the preliminary results for an experiment that aims to perform direct measurements of suspension thermal noise. The experiment is based on a niobium flexure membrane approximately 200 µm thickness that is operated as a stable inverted pendulum. A 0.25 g mirror suspended by this flexure membrane is used as the end mirror of a Fabry-Perot test cavity. This test cavity has a length of 12mm and a finesse of about 800. It is mounted at the lowest stage of a quadruple cascaded pendulum suspension, enclosed in a high-vacuum envelope. The length of test cavity is stabilized with 1Hz bandwidth to a Nd:YAG laser, which itself is stabilized with high bandwidth to the length of a suspended Zerodur reference cavity of finesse 6000.

  6. Statistical Analysis of a Large Sample Size Pyroshock Test Data Set Including Post Flight Data Assessment. Revision 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hughes, William O.; McNelis, Anne M.

    2010-01-01

    The Earth Observing System (EOS) Terra spacecraft was launched on an Atlas IIAS launch vehicle on its mission to observe planet Earth in late 1999. Prior to launch, the new design of the spacecraft's pyroshock separation system was characterized by a series of 13 separation ground tests. The analysis methods used to evaluate this unusually large amount of shock data will be discussed in this paper, with particular emphasis on population distributions and finding statistically significant families of data, leading to an overall shock separation interface level. The wealth of ground test data also allowed a derivation of a Mission Assurance level for the flight. All of the flight shock measurements were below the EOS Terra Mission Assurance level thus contributing to the overall success of the EOS Terra mission. The effectiveness of the statistical methodology for characterizing the shock interface level and for developing a flight Mission Assurance level from a large sample size of shock data is demonstrated in this paper.

  7. A gravitationally lensed quasar with quadruple images separated by 14.62 arcseconds.

    PubMed

    Inada, Naohisa; Oguri, Masamune; Pindor, Bartosz; Hennawi, Joseph F; Chiu, Kuenley; Zheng, Wei; Ichikawa, Shin-Ichi; Gregg, Michael D; Becker, Robert H; Suto, Yasushi; Strauss, Michael A; Turner, Edwin L; Keeton, Charles R; Annis, James; Castander, Francisco J; Eisenstein, Daniel J; Frieman, Joshua A; Fukugita, Masataka; Gunn, James E; Johnston, David E; Kent, Stephen M; Nichol, Robert C; Richards, Gordon T; Rix, Hans-Walter; Sheldon, Erin Scott; Bahcall, Neta A; Brinkmann, J; Ivezić, Zeljko; Lamb, Don Q; McKay, Timothy A; Schneider, Donald P; York, Donald G

    2003-12-18

    Gravitational lensing is a powerful tool for the study of the distribution of dark matter in the Universe. The cold-dark-matter model of the formation of large-scale structures (that is, clusters of galaxies and even larger assemblies) predicts the existence of quasars gravitationally lensed by concentrations of dark matter so massive that the quasar images would be split by over 7 arcsec. Numerous searches for large-separation lensed quasars have, however, been unsuccessful. All of the roughly 70 lensed quasars known, including the first lensed quasar discovered, have smaller separations that can be explained in terms of galaxy-scale concentrations of baryonic matter. Although gravitationally lensed galaxies with large separations are known, quasars are more useful cosmological probes because of the simplicity of the resulting lens systems. Here we report the discovery of a lensed quasar, SDSS J1004 + 4112, which has a maximum separation between the components of 14.62 arcsec. Such a large separation means that the lensing object must be dominated by dark matter. Our results are fully consistent with theoretical expectations based on the cold-dark-matter model.

  8. Pap and HPV Testing

    Cancer.gov

    Pap tests detect abnormal cervical cells, including precancerous cervical lesions, as well as early cervical cancers. HPV tests detect HPV infections that can cause cervical cell abnormalities. Learn how Pap and HPV tests are done, how often testing should be done, and how are HPV test results are reported.

  9. Artificial Nacre from Supramolecular Assembly of Graphene Oxide.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yang; Li, Ting; Ma, Piming; Zhang, Shengwen; Zhang, Hongji; Du, Mingliang; Xie, Yi; Chen, Mingqing; Dong, Weifu; Ming, Weihua

    2018-06-14

    Inspired by the "brick-and-mortar" structure and remarkable mechanical performance of nacre, many efforts have been devoted to fabricating nacre-mimicking materials. Herein, a class of graphene oxide (GO) based artificial nacre material with quadruple hydrogen-bonding interactions was fabricated by functionalization of polydopamine-capped graphene oxide (PDG) with 2-ureido-4[1 H]-pyrimidinone (UPy) self-complementary quadruple hydrogen-bonding units followed by supramolecular assembly process. The artificial nacre displays a strict "brick-and-mortar" structure, with PDG nanosheets as the brick and UPy units as the mortar. The resultant nanocomposite shows an excellent balance of strength and toughness. Because of the strong strengthening via quadruple hydrogen bonding, the tensile strength and toughness can reach 325.6 ± 17.8 MPa and 11.1 ± 1.3 MJ m -3 , respectively, thus exceeding natural nacre, and reaching 3.6 and 10 times that of a pure GO artificial nacre. Furthermore, after further H 2 O treatment, the resulting H 2 O-treated PDG-UPy actuator displays significant bending actuations when driven by heat. This work provides a pathway for the development of artificial nacre for their potential applications in energy conversion, temperature sensor, and thermo-driven actuator.

  10. A soluble diacylglycerol acyltransferase is involved in triacylglycerol biosynthesis in the oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula glutinis.

    PubMed

    Rani, Sapa Hima; Saha, Saikat; Rajasekharan, Ram

    2013-01-01

    The biosynthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG) occurs in the microsomal membranes of eukaryotes. Here, we report the identification and functional characterization of diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT), a member of the 10 S cytosolic TAG biosynthetic complex (TBC) in Rhodotorula glutinis. Both a full-length and an N-terminally truncated cDNA clone of a single gene were isolated from R. glutinis. The DGAT activity of the protein encoded by RgDGAT was confirmed in vivo by the heterologous expression of cDNA in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae quadruple mutant (H1246) that is defective in TAG synthesis. RgDGAT overexpression in yeast was found to be capable of acylating diacylglycerol (DAG) in an acyl-CoA-dependent manner. Quadruple mutant yeast cells exhibit growth defects in the presence of oleic acid, but wild-type yeast cells do not. In an in vivo fatty acid supplementation experiment, RgDGAT expression rescued quadruple mutant growth in an oleate-containing medium. We describe a soluble acyl-CoA-dependent DAG acyltransferase from R. glutinis that belongs to the DGAT3 class of enzymes. The study highlights the importance of an alternative TAG biosynthetic pathway in oleaginous yeasts.

  11. Methods of Testing Thermal Insulation and Associated Test Apparatus

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fesmire, James E. (Inventor); Augustynowicz, Stanislaw D. (Inventor)

    2004-01-01

    The system and method for testing thermal insulation uses a cryostatic insulation tester having a vacuum chamber and a cold mass including a test chamber and upper and lower guard chambers adjacent thereto. The thermal insulation is positioned within the vacuum chamber and adjacent the cold mass. Cryogenic liquid is supplied to the test chamber, upper guard and lower guard to create a first gas layer in an upper portion of the lower guard chamber and a second gas layer in an upper portion of the test chamber. Temperature are sensed within the vacuum chamber to test the thermal insulation.

  12. Optimal design of a vibration-based energy harvester using magnetostrictive material (MsM)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, J.; Xu, F.; Huang, A. Q.; Yuan, F. G.

    2011-01-01

    In this study, an optimal vibration-based energy harvesting system using magnetostrictive material (MsM) was designed and tested to enable the powering of a wireless sensor. In particular, the conversion efficiency, converting from magnetic to electric energy, is approximately modeled from the magnetic field induced by the beam vibration. A number of factors that affect the output power such as the number of MsM layers, coil design and load matching are analyzed and explored in the design optimization. From the measurements, the open-circuit voltage can reach 1.5 V when the MsM cantilever beam operates at the second natural frequency 324 Hz. The AC output power is 970 µW, giving a power density of 279 µW cm - 3. The attempt to use electrical reactive components (either inductors or capacitors) to resonate the system at any frequency has also been analyzed and tested experimentally. The results showed that this approach is not feasible to optimize the power. Since the MsM device has low output voltage characteristics, a full-wave quadrupler has been designed to boost the rectified output voltage. To deliver the maximum output power to the load, a complex conjugate impedance matching between the load and the MsM device is implemented using a discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) buck-boost converter. The DC output power after the voltage quadrupler reaches 705 µW and the corresponding power density is 202 µW cm - 3. The output power delivered to a lithium rechargeable battery is around 630 µW, independent of the load resistance.

  13. A Historical Perspective of Testing and Assessment Including the Impact of Summative and Formative Assessment on Student Achievement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brink, Carole Sanger

    2011-01-01

    In 2007, Georgia developed a comprehensive framework to define what students need to know. One component of this framework emphasizes the use of both formative and summative assessments as part of an integral and specific component of the teachers. performance evaluation. Georgia administers the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) to every…

  14. Specific balance training included in an endurance-resistance exercise program improves postural balance in elderly patients undergoing haemodialysis.

    PubMed

    Frih, Bechir; Mkacher, Wajdi; Jaafar, Hamdi; Frih, Ameur; Ben Salah, Zohra; El May, Mezry; Hammami, Mohamed

    2018-04-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of 6 months of specific balance training included in endurance-resistance program on postural balance in haemodialysis (HD) patients. Forty-nine male patients undergoing HD were randomly assigned to an intervention group (balance training included in an endurance-resistance training, n = 26) or a control group (resistance-endurance training only, n = 23). Postural control was assessed using six clinical tests; Timed Up and Go test, Tinetti Mobility Test, Berg Balance Scale, Unipodal Stance test, Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test and Activities Balance Confidence scale. All balance measures increased significantly after the period of rehabilitation training in the intervention group. Only the Timed Up and Go, Berg Balance Scale, Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test and Activities Balance Confidence scores were improved in the control group. The ranges of change in these tests were greater in the balance training group. In HD patients, specific balance training included in a usual endurance-resistance training program improves static and dynamic balance better than endurance-resistance training only. Implications for rehabilitation Rehabilitation using exercise in haemodialysis patients improved global mobility and functional abilities. Specific balance training included in usual endurance resistance training program could lead to improved static and dynamic balance.

  15. The DOE ETV-1 Electric Test Vehicle. Phase 3: Performance Testing and system evaluation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kurtz, D.

    1981-01-01

    Engineering tests were conducted in order to characterize overall system performance and component efficiencies within the system environment. A dynamometer was used in order to minimize the ambient effects and large uncertainties present in track testing. Extensive test requirements were defined and procedures were carefully controlled in order to maintain a high degree of credibility. Limited track testing was performed in order to corroborate the dynamometer results. Test results include an energy flow analysis through the major subsystems and incorporate the aerodynamic and rolling losses under cyclic and various steady speed conditions. The major output from all relevant dynamometer and track tests is also included.

  16. 40 CFR 1036.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... gas emissions, including all auxiliary emission control devices (AECDs) and all fuel-system components you will install on any production or test engine. Identify the part number of each component you.... (e) Identify the CO2 FCLs with which you are certifying engines in the engine family; also identify...

  17. 40 CFR 1036.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... gas emissions, including all auxiliary emission control devices (AECDs) and all fuel-system components you will install on any production or test engine. Identify the part number of each component you....-directed production volume of configurations that have emission rates at or below the FCL must be at least...

  18. 40 CFR 1036.205 - What must I include in my application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... gas emissions, including all auxiliary emission control devices (AECDs) and all fuel-system components you will install on any production or test engine. Identify the part number of each component you....-directed production volume of configurations that have emission rates at or below the FCL must be at least...

  19. Computer-Adaptive Testing: Implications for Students' Achievement, Motivation, Engagement, and Subjective Test Experience

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martin, Andrew J.; Lazendic, Goran

    2018-01-01

    The present study investigated the implications of computer-adaptive testing (operationalized by way of multistage adaptive testing; MAT) and "conventional" fixed order computer testing for various test-relevant outcomes in numeracy, including achievement, test-relevant motivation and engagement, and subjective test experience. It did so…

  20. Morpheus Lander Testing Campaign

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hart, Jeremy J.; Mitchell, Jennifer D.

    2011-01-01

    NASA s Morpheus Project has developed and tested a prototype planetary lander capable of vertical takeoff and landing designed to serve as a testbed for advanced spacecraft technologies. The Morpheus vehicle has successfully performed a set of integrated vehicle test flights including hot-fire and tether tests, ultimately culminating in an un-tethered "free-flight" This development and testing campaign was conducted on-site at the Johnson Space Center (JSC), less than one year after project start. Designed, developed, manufactured and operated in-house by engineers at JSC, the Morpheus Project represents an unprecedented departure from recent NASA programs and projects that traditionally require longer development lifecycles and testing at remote, dedicated testing facilities. This paper documents the integrated testing campaign, including descriptions of test types (hot-fire, tether, and free-flight), test objectives, and the infrastructure of JSC testing facilities. A major focus of the paper will be the fast pace of the project, rapid prototyping, frequent testing, and lessons learned from this departure from the traditional engineering development process at NASA s Johnson Space Center.

  1. ERA's Open Rotor Studies Including Shielding for Noise Reduction

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Van Zante, Dale; Thomas, Russell

    2012-01-01

    The Open Rotor is a modern version of the UnDucted Fan (UDF) that was flight tested in the late 1980's through a partnership between NASA and General Electric (GE). Tests were conducted in the 9' x 15' Low Speed Wind Tunnel and the 8' x 6' Supersonic Wind Tunnel starting in late 2009 and completed in early 2012. Aerodynamic and acoustic data were obtained for takeoff, approach and cruise simulations. GE was the primary partner, but other organizations were involved such as Boeing and Airbus who provided additional hardware for fuselage simulations. This test campaign provided the acoustic and performance characteristics for modern open rotor blades designs." NASA and GE conducted joint systems analysis to evaluate how well new blade designs would perform on a B737 class aircraft, and compared the results to an advanced higher bypass ratio turbofan." Acoustic shielding experiments were performed at NASA GRC and Boeing LSAF facilities to provide data for noise estimates of unconventional aircraft configurations with Open Rotor propulsion systems." The work was sponsored by NASA's aeronautics programs, including the Subsonic Fixed Wing (SFW) and the Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) projects."

  2. Shuttle payload vibroacoustic test plan evaluation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stahle, C. V.; Gongloff, H. R.; Young, J. P.; Keegan, W. B.

    1977-01-01

    Statistical decision theory is used to evaluate seven alternate vibro-acoustic test plans for Space Shuttle payloads; test plans include component, subassembly and payload testing and combinations of component and assembly testing. The optimum test levels and the expected cost are determined for each test plan. By including all of the direct cost associated with each test plan and the probabilistic costs due to ground test and flight failures, the test plans which minimize project cost are determined. The lowest cost approach eliminates component testing and maintains flight vibration reliability by performing subassembly tests at a relatively high acoustic level.

  3. Open Rotor Test Status

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    VanZante, Dale E.

    2010-01-01

    Testing of low noise, counter-rotating open rotor propulsion concepts has been ongoing at Glenn Research Center in collaboration with General Electric Company. The presentation is an overview of the testing that has been completed to date and previews the upcoming test entries. The NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project Diagnostics entry is the most recent to finish. That test entry included acoustic phased array, pressure sensitive paint, particle image velocimetry, pylon installed measurements and acoustic shielding measurements. A preview of the data to be acquired in the 8x6 high-speed wind tunnel is also included.

  4. Seal material development test program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1971-01-01

    A program designed to characterize an experimental fluoroelastomer material designated AF-E-124D, is examined. Tests conducted include liquid nitrogen load compression tests, flexure tests and valve seal tests, ambient and elevated temperature compression set tests, and cleaning and flushing fluid exposure tests. The results of these tests indicate the AF-E-124D is a good choice for a cryogenic seal, since it exhibits good low temperature sealing characteristics and resistance to permanent set. The status of this material as an experimental fluorelastomer is stressed and recommended. Activity includes definition and control of critical processing to ensure consistent material properties. Design, fabrication and test of this and other materials is recommended in valve and static seal applications.

  5. Cryogenic optical testing results of JWST aspheric test plate lens

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smith, Koby Z.; Towell, Timothy C.

    2011-09-01

    The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Secondary Mirror Assembly (SMA) is a circular 740mm diameter beryllium convex hyperboloid that has a 23.5nm-RMS (λ/27 RMS) on-orbit surface figure error requirement. The radius of curvature of the SMA is 1778.913mm+/-0.45mm and has a conic constant of -1.6598+/-0.0005. The on-orbit operating temperature of the JWST SMA is 22.5K. Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. (BATC) is under contract to Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems (NGAS) to fabricate, assemble, and test the JWST SMA to its on-orbit requirements including the optical testing of the SMA at its cryogenic operating temperature. BATC has fabricated and tested an Aspheric Test Plate Lens (ATPL) that is an 870mm diameter fused silica lens used as the Fizeau optical reference in the ambient and cryogenic optical testing of the JWST Secondary Mirror Assembly (SMA). As the optical reference for the SMA optical test, the concave optical surface of the ATPL is required to be verified at the same 20K temperature range required for the SMA. In order to meet this objective, a state-of-the-art helium cryogenic testing facility was developed to support the optical testing requirements of a number of the JWST optical testing needs, including the ATPL and SMA. With the implementation of this cryogenic testing facility, the ATPL was successfully cryogenically tested and performed to less than 10nm-RMS (λ/63 RMS) surface figure uncertainty levels for proper reference backout during the SMA optical testing program.

  6. Special Education Students: To Be (Tested) or Not To Be (Tested)? That's a Good Question.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wilkinson, L. David; Matter, M. Kevin

    This paper outlines how the Austin Independent School District (Texas) tried to deal with the following questions: (1) Should special education students be included in the administration of standardized tests?; (2) Should their scores be included or excluded in the reporting of test results?; and (3) What are the evidences that test scores reflect…

  7. Rheumatoid factor testing in Spanish primary care: A population-based cohort study including 4.8 million subjects and almost half a million measurements.

    PubMed

    Morsley, Klara; Miller, Anne; Luqmani, Raashid; Fina-Aviles, Francesc; Javaid, Muhammad Kassim; Edwards, Christopher J; Pinedo-Villanueva, Rafael; Medina, Manuel; Calero, Sebastian; Cooper, Cyrus; Arden, Nigel; Prieto-Alhambra, Daniel

    2018-02-26

    Rheumatoid factor (RF) testing is used in primary care in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however a positive RF may occur without RA. Incorrect use of RF testing may lead to increased costs and delayed diagnoses. The aim was to assess the performance of RF as a test for RA and to estimate the costs associated with its use in a primary care setting. A retrospective cohort study using the Information System for the Development of Research in Primary Care database (contains primary care records and laboratory results of >80% of the Catalonian population, Spain). Participants were patients ≥18 years with ≥1 RF test performed between 01/01/2006 and 31/12/2011, without a pre-existing diagnosis of RA. Outcome measures were an incident diagnosis of RA within 1 year of testing, and the cost of testing per case of RA. 495,434/4,796,498 (10.3%) patients were tested at least once. 107,362 (21.7%) of those tested were sero-positive of which 2768 (2.6%) were diagnosed with RA within 1 year as were 1141/388,072 (0.3%) sero-negative participants. The sensitivity of RF was 70.8% (95% CI 69.4-72.2), specificity 78.7% (78.6-78.8), and positive and negative predictive values 2.6% (2.5-2.7) and 99.7% (99.6-99.7) respectively. Approximately €3,963,472 was spent, with a cost of €1432 per true positive case. Although 10% of patients were tested for RF, most did not have RA. Limiting testing to patients with a higher pre-test probability would significantly reduce the cost of testing. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

  8. Comprehensive bactericidal activity of an ethanol-based hand gel in 15 seconds.

    PubMed

    Kampf, Günter; Hollingsworth, Angela

    2008-01-22

    Some studies indicate that the commonly recommended 30 s application time for the post contamination treatment of hands may not be necessary as the same effect may be achieved with some formulations in a shorter application time such as 15 s. We evaluated the bactericidal activity of an ethanol-based hand gel (Sterillium Comfort Gel) within 15 s in a time-kill-test against 11 Gram-positive, 16 Gram-negative bacteria and 11 emerging bacterial pathogens. Each strain was evaluated in quadruplicate. The hand gel (85% ethanol, w/w) was found to reduce all 11 Gram-positive and all 16 Gram-negative bacteria by more than 5 log10 steps within 15 s, not only against the ATCC test strains but also against corresponding clinical isolates. In addition, a log10 reduction > 5 was observed against all tested emerging bacterial pathogens. The ethanol-based hand gel was found to have a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity in only 15 s which includes the most common species causing nosocomial infections and the relevant emerging pathogens. Future research will hopefully help to find out if a shorter application time for the post contamination treatment of hands provides more benefits or more risks.

  9. Analyses of the dynamic docking test system for advanced mission docking system test programs. [Apollo Soyuz Test Project

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gates, R. M.; Williams, J. E.

    1974-01-01

    Results are given of analytical studies performed in support of the design, implementation, checkout and use of NASA's dynamic docking test system (DDTS). Included are analyses of simulator components, a list of detailed operational test procedures, a summary of simulator performance, and an analysis and comparison of docking dynamics and loads obtained by test and analysis.

  10. HCG blood test - qualitative

    MedlinePlus

    ... pregnancy. Other HCG tests include: HCG urine test Quantitative pregnancy test (checks specific level of HCG in ... eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 74. ...

  11. Liquid Rocket Engine Testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rahman, Shamim

    2005-01-01

    Comprehensive Liquid Rocket Engine testing is essential to risk reduction for Space Flight. Test capability represents significant national investments in expertise and infrastructure. Historical experience underpins current test capabilities. Test facilities continually seek proactive alignment with national space development goals and objectives including government and commercial sectors.

  12. Documentation of spreadsheets for the analysis of aquifer-test and slug-test data

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Halford, Keith J.; Kuniansky, Eve L.

    2002-01-01

    Several spreadsheets have been developed for the analysis of aquifer-test and slug-test data. Each spreadsheet incorporates analytical solution(s) of the partial differential equation for ground-water flow to a well for a specific type of condition or aquifer. The derivations of the analytical solutions were previously published. Thus, this report abbreviates the theoretical discussion, but includes practical information about each method and the important assumptions for the applications of each method. These spreadsheets were written in Microsoft Excel 9.0 (use of trade names does not constitute endorsement by the USGS). Storage properties should not be estimated with many of the spreadsheets because most are for analyzing single-well tests. Estimation of storage properties from single-well tests is generally discouraged because single-well tests are affected by wellbore storage and by well construction. These non-ideal effects frequently cause estimates of storage to be erroneous by orders of magnitude. Additionally, single-well tests are not sensitive to aquifer-storage properties. Single-well tests include all slug tests (Bouwer and Rice Method, Cooper, Bredehoeft, Papadopulos Method, and van der Kamp Method), the Cooper-Jacob straight-line Method, Theis recovery-data analysis, Jacob-Lohman method for flowing wells in a confined aquifer, and the step-drawdown test. Multi-well test spreadsheets included in this report are; Hantush-Jacob Leaky Aquifer Method and Distance-Drawdown Methods. The distance-drawdown method is an equilibrium or steady-state method, thus storage cannot be estimated.

  13. Bias in Mental Testing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jensen, Arthur R.

    The first eight chapters of this book introduce the topic of test bias. The basic issues involved in criticisms of mental tests and arguments about test bias include: (1) variety of tests and test items; (2) scaling of scores and the form of the distribution of abilities in the population; (3) quantification of subpopulation differences; (4)…

  14. Workplace drug testing in Italy: findings about second-stage testing.

    PubMed

    Vignali, Claudia; Stramesi, Cristiana; Morini, Luca; San Bartolomeo, Paolo; Groppi, Angelo

    2015-03-01

    Workplace Drug Testing (WDT) in Italy includes two levels of monitoring: a first stage concerning drug testing on urine samples and a second involving both urine and hair analysis. The second stage is performed only on workers who tested positive at the first level. We analyzed urine and hair specimens from 120 workers undergoing second-level testing between 2009 and 2012. Eighty percent of them had tested positive for cannabinoids during the first level analysis, and 15.8% for cocaine. Both urine and hair samples were analyzed in order to find the following drugs of abuse: amphetamines, buprenorphine, cannabinoids, cocaine, ecstasy, methadone, and opiates. Urine analyses were performed by immunological screening (EMIT); urine confirmatory tests and hair analyses were performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). As regards second-stage testing on urine samples, 71.2% of workers were always negative, whereas 23.9% tested positive at least once for cannabinoids and 2.5% for cocaine. Hair analyses produced surprising results: 61.9% of hair samples tested negative, only 6.2% tested positive for cannabinoids, whereas 28.8% tested positive for cocaine. These findings confirm that second-level surveillance of WDT, which includes hair analysis, is very effective because it highlights drug intake - sometimes heavy - that cannot be revealed only through urine analyses. The employees for whom drug addiction is proved can begin rehabilitation, while keeping their job. Eventually, our results confirmed the widespread and undeclared use of cocaine in Italy. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  15. Temporary agency contracts: what should they include?

    PubMed

    Sferrella, Sheila M

    2002-01-01

    The AHRA Board committed to provide some tools to help our members with agency contracts. This article provides the sections for a contract and what they should include. Of course, the language will have to comply with your organization's requirements. To comply with HIPAA regulations for contracts, I've also included language for business associates. JCAHO requires that the following documentation be on file for all contracted personnel: 1. Hospital job description or formal contract outlining the job responsibilities. 2. All licenses, certifications and registrations are reviewed and a process is developed to ensure that they remain current. 3. Competency is evaluated and maintained. 4. Evidence that personnel received a general orientation. 5. Evidence that personnel received a departmental orientation. 6. Safety and infection control standards must be met. In order to aid with compliance when utilizing contracted personnel, my organization developed a Contractor Personnel Administrative Compliance Checklist, which identifies requirements for compliance, a reference for assistance, and places to record that the requirement has been met for each of the areas listed in the previous item. Our standard contract includes sections on general definition of engagement, credentials and work experience; health, including immunization and drug testing; corporation; JCAHO; terms of the contract; and, non-disclosure of information. A business associate agreement may be necessary to comply with HIPAA regulations. Using the template has made my job much easier than trying to read each contract that crosses my desk. If an agency refuses to sign our contract, then we do not conduct business with that company. If an agency requests changes to the contract, depending on the language, we may or may not agree to it. This information is not intended to be legal advice, but rather an educational overview. As with any contract, the reader should consult with legal counsel at his or her

  16. Leggett-Garg tests of macrorealism for bosonic systems including double-well Bose-Einstein condensates and atom interferometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rosales-Zárate, L.; Opanchuk, B.; He, Q. Y.; Reid, M. D.

    2018-04-01

    We construct quantifiable generalizations of Leggett-Garg tests for macro- and mesoscopic realism and noninvasive measurability that apply when not all outcomes of measurement can be identified as arising from one of two macroscopically distinguishable states. We show how quantum mechanics predicts a negation of the Leggett-Garg premises for strategies involving ideal negative-result, weak, and minimally invasive ("nonclumsy") projective measurements on dynamical entangled systems, as might be realized with Bose-Einstein condensates in a double-well potential, path-entangled NOON states, and atom interferometers. Potential loopholes associated with each strategy are discussed.

  17. [Effectiveness of low emission zones of stage 1: analysis of the changes in fine dust concentrations (PM10) in 19 German cities].

    PubMed

    Morfeld, P; Groneberg, D A; Spallek, M

    2014-03-01

    It is not known/is disputed whether introduction of low emission zones (LEZs) leads to a reduction of fine dust pollutants. Data on PM10 concentrations obtained from measurement stations within and outside of LEZs from 19 German cities (Augsburg, Berlin, Dortmund, Duisburg, Düsseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt a. M., Hannover, Herrenberg, Ilsfeld, Karlsruhe, Köln, Ludwigsburg, Mannheim, München, Reutlingen, Stuttgart, Tübingen, Wuppertal) were analyzed in order to investigate the effect of banning vehicles ("tier 1") of the pollutant group 1 (without stickers) on the pollutant concentration, i.e, this study focused on LEZs that restricted cars of EURO 1 standard without appropriate retrofitting systems from entering these zones. For the period from about 2005 until the end of 2009, data from continuous half-hour measurements as well as gravimetrically determined daily measurements of PM10 were collected. The analysis consisted of four pairwise corresponding measurement values as matched quadruples of two index and two reference values (index stations are inside, and reference stations are outside the LEZs). One index value and the simultaneous reference value were measured during the active LEZ period, and the other pair of values was measured before the LEZ was introduced. The pairs of values had a difference in time of 364 days or a multiple of 364 days keeping the season, weekday and time of day constant within the quadruple. Differences in index values were regressed on differences in reference values while meteorological parameters (height of the inversion base, amount of precipitation, wind velocity), school holidays, period of environmental bonus paid, periods when trucks were banned as well as baseline data at index and reference stations were taken into account as covariates in so-called "fixed effects" regression analyses of the quadruples (difference score method in the two-period case). The statistical approach was successfully validated prior to this

  18. [Memory Checking Tests].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hart, Joseph T.

    Two basic tests for checking memory skills are included in these appendices. The first, the General Information Test, uses the same 150 items for each of its two versions. One version is a completion-type test which measures recall by requiring the examinee to supply a specific response. The other version supplements each of the 150 items with…

  19. Test Control Center

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2000-10-25

    At the test observation periscope in the Test Control Center exhibit in StenniSphere at the John C. Stennis Space Center in Hancock County, Miss., visitors can observe a test of a Space Shuttle Main Engine exactly as test engineers might see it during a real engine test. The Test Control Center exhibit exactly simulates not only the test control environment, but also the procedure of testing a rocket engine. Designed to entertain while educating, StenniSphere includes informative dispays and exhibits from NASA's lead center for rocket propulsion and remote sensing applications. StenniSphere is open free of charge from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

  20. Meropenem-Vaborbactam Tested against Contemporary Gram-Negative Isolates Collected Worldwide during 2014, Including Carbapenem-Resistant, KPC-Producing, Multidrug-Resistant, and Extensively Drug-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae.

    PubMed

    Castanheira, Mariana; Huband, Michael D; Mendes, Rodrigo E; Flamm, Robert K

    2017-09-01

    We evaluated the activity of meropenem-vaborbactam against contemporary nonfastidious Gram-negative clinical isolates, including Enterobacteriaceae isolates with resistance phenotypes and carbapenemase genotypes. Meropenem-vaborbactam (inhibitor at 8 μg/ml) and comparators were susceptibility tested by reference broth microdilution methods against 14,304 Gram-negative clinical isolates collected worldwide during 2014. Carbapenemase-encoding genes were screened by PCR and sequencing. Meropenem-vaborbactam (MIC 50/90 , ≤0.015/0.06 μg/ml) inhibited 99.1 and 99.3% of the 10,426 Enterobacteriaceae isolates tested at ≤1 and ≤2 μg/ml, respectively. Meropenem inhibited 97.3 and 97.7% of these isolates at the same concentrations. Against Enterobacteriaceae isolates displaying carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) ( n = 265), multidrug-resistant (MDR) ( n = 1,210), and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) ( n = 161) phenotypes, meropenem-vaborbactam displayed MIC 50/90 values of 0.5/32, 0.03/1, and 0.5/32 μg/ml, respectively, whereas meropenem activities were 16/>32, 0.06/32, and 0.5/32 μg/ml, respectively. Among all geographic regions, the highest meropenem-vaborbactam activities were observed for CRE and MDR isolates from the United States (MIC 50/90 , 0.03/1 and 0.03/0.12 μg/ml, respectively). Meropenem-vaborbactam was very active against 135 KPC producers, and all isolates were inhibited by concentrations of ≤8 μg/ml (133 isolates by concentrations of ≤2 μg/ml). This combination had limited activity against isolates producing metallo-β-lactamases (including 25 NDM-1 and 16 VIM producers) and/or oxacillinases (27 OXA-48/OXA-163 producers) that were detected mainly in Asia-Pacific and some European countries. The activity of meropenem-vaborbactam was similar to that of meropenem alone against Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Acinetobacter spp., and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Meropenem-vaborbactam was active against contemporary Enterobacteriaceae isolates

  1. An Airborne Parachute Compartment Test Bed for the Orion Parachute Test Program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, James W.; Romero, Leah M.

    2013-01-01

    The test program developing parachutes for the Orion/MPCV includes drop tests with parachutes deployed from an Orion-like parachute compartment at a wide range of dynamic pressures. Aircraft and altitude constraints precluded the use of an Orion boilerplate capsule for several test points. Therefore, a dart-shaped test vehicle with a hi-fidelity mock-up of the Orion parachute compartment has been developed. The available aircraft options imposed constraints on the test vehicle development and concept of operations. Delivery of this test vehicle to the desired velocity, altitude, and orientation required for the test is a di cult problem involving multiple engineering disciplines. This paper describes the development of the test technique. The engineering challenges include extraction from an aircraft, reposition of the extraction parachute, and mid-air separation of two vehicles, neither of which has an active attitude control system. The desired separation behavior is achieved by precisely controlling the release point using on-board monitoring of the motion. The design of the test vehicle is also described. The trajectory simulations and other analyses used to develop this technique and predict the behavior of the test vehicle are reviewed in detail. The application of the technique on several successful drop tests is summarized.

  2. Liquid salt environment stress-rupture testing

    DOEpatents

    Ren, Weiju; Holcomb, David E.; Muralidharan, Govindarajan; Wilson, Dane F.

    2016-03-22

    Disclosed herein are systems, devices and methods for stress-rupture testing selected materials within a high-temperature liquid salt environment. Exemplary testing systems include a load train for holding a test specimen within a heated inert gas vessel. A thermal break included in the load train can thermally insulate a load cell positioned along the load train within the inert gas vessel. The test specimen can include a cylindrical gage portion having an internal void filled with a molten salt during stress-rupture testing. The gage portion can have an inner surface area to volume ratio of greater than 20 to maximize the corrosive effect of the molten salt on the specimen material during testing. Also disclosed are methods of making a salt ingot for placement within the test specimen.

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

    Herkovits, J.; Herkovits, F.D.; Fernandez, A.

    The identification of mercurium hazard for Cnesterodon decemmaculatus and Bufo arenarum (embryos) was evaluated in a renewal toxicity test system at 20 C and informed as LC100, LC50 and NOEC for 24 and up till 96 hours of exposure (acute Toxicity Profile -- TPa -- for mercurium). On addition the beneficial effect of zinc against the lethal effect of mercurium is reported. The test with fish were conducted maintaining 10 individuals in 1 L of EPA water (by quadruplicate) in six concentrations of Hg plus controls, while for amphibian, batches of 10 Bufo arenarum embryos at stage 25 (by quadruplicate)more » were maintained in 40 ml of Holtfreter`s solution in six concentration of Hg + (HgCl) plus controls. The LC100, LC50 and NOEC for fishes expressed in Hg (+) mg/L were: 0.60, 0.25 and 0.10 for 24 hours of exposure. These values increased very slightly at least up till 96 hours of exposure. Therefore, Bufo arenarum seems to be about three times more sensitive than Cnesterodon decemmaculatus to mercurium. By means of simultaneous mercurium-zinc treatment (ZnSO4) the lethal effect of mercurium could be reduced in amphibians up till 100% with 18 mg Zn2+/L, while for the fish the best result obtained was a reduction of about 50% of lethality within the first 96 hours of treatment with 20 mg Zn2+/L. As a whole the results point out the high susceptibility of amphibian embryos to xenobiotics, the beneficial effect of zinc against embryos to xenobiotics, the beneficial effect of zinc against toxicity exerted by Hg and the need of biological test systems for recording the combined effects of substances released to the environment.« less

  4. CEBAF Upgrade Cryomodule Component Testing in the Horizontal Test Bed (HTB)

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

    I.E. Campisi; B. Carpenter; G.K. Davis

    2001-06-01

    The planned upgrade of the CEBAF electron accelerator includes the development of an improved cryomodule. Several components differ substantially from the original CEBAF cryomodule; these include: the new 7-cell, 1.5 GHz cavities with integral helium vessel, a new, backlash-free cavity tuner, the waveguide coupler with its room-temperature ceramic window, and the HOM damping filters. In order to test the design features and performance of the new components, a horizontal cryostat (Horizontal Test Bed) has been constructed which allows testing with a turn around time of less than three weeks. This cryostat provides the environment for testing one or two cavities,more » with associated auxiliary components, in a condition similar to that of a real cryomodule. A series of tests has been performed on a prototype 7-cell cavity and the above-mentioned systems. In this paper the results of the tests on the cryostat, on the cavity performance, on its coupler, on the tuner characteristics, and on the microphonics behavior will be reported.« less

  5. Testing Understanding and Understanding Testing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pedersen, Jean; Ross, Peter

    1985-01-01

    Provides examples in which graphs are used in the statements of problems or in their solutions as a means of testing understanding of mathematical concepts. Examples (appropriate for a beginning course in calculus and analytic geometry) include slopes of lines and curves, quadratic formula, properties of the definite integral, and others. (JN)

  6. Ares I-X Flight Test Vehicle Modal Test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buehrle, Ralph D.; Templeton, Justin D.; Reaves, Mercedes C.; Horta, Lucas G.; Gaspar, James L.; Bartolotta, Paul A.; Parks, Russel A.; Lazor, Daniel R.

    2010-01-01

    The first test flight of NASA's Ares I crew launch vehicle, called Ares I-X, was launched on October 28, 2009. Ares I-X used a 4-segment reusable solid rocket booster from the Space Shuttle heritage with mass simulators for the 5th segment, upper stage, crew module and launch abort system. Flight test data will provide important information on ascent loads, vehicle control, separation, and first stage reentry dynamics. As part of hardware verification, a series of modal tests were designed to verify the dynamic finite element model (FEM) used in loads assessments and flight control evaluations. Based on flight control system studies, the critical modes were the first three free-free bending mode pairs. Since a test of the free-free vehicle was not practical within project constraints, modal tests for several configurations during vehicle stacking were defined to calibrate the FEM. Test configurations included two partial stacks and the full Ares I-X flight test vehicle on the Mobile Launcher Platform. This report describes the test requirements, constraints, pre-test analysis, test execution and results for the Ares I-X flight test vehicle modal test on the Mobile Launcher Platform. Initial comparisons between pre-test predictions and test data are also presented.

  7. The Expeditionary Test Set - A fresh approach to automatic testing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Williams, D. L.; Austin, W. J.

    This paper discusses the key design decisions and tradeoffs leading from the conceptual stage to the production version of the Expeditionary Test Set (ETS) for the USMC. This included a ten-month feasibility study program funded by the Naval Air Systems Command which culminated in the successful demonstration of a working tester model. The demonstration of the test set was preceded by a substantial re-thinking of conventional ATE test methods. Considerable discussion is devoted to the impact of test philosophy, both on the test set design and the overall effectiveness of avionic testing. Major architectural features of the test set are presented in some detail, and the many areas which break from traditional ATE design are emphasized.

  8. Model dielectric function for 2D semiconductors including substrate screening

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Trolle, Mads L.; Pedersen, Thomas G.; Véniard, Valerie

    2017-01-01

    Dielectric screening of excitons in 2D semiconductors is known to be a highly non-local effect, which in reciprocal space translates to a strong dependence on momentum transfer q. We present an analytical model dielectric function, including the full non-linear q-dependency, which may be used as an alternative to more numerically taxing ab initio screening functions. By verifying the good agreement between excitonic optical properties calculated using our model dielectric function, and those derived from ab initio methods, we demonstrate the versatility of this approach. Our test systems include: Monolayer hBN, monolayer MoS2, and the surface exciton of a 2 × 1 reconstructed Si(111) surface. Additionally, using our model, we easily take substrate screening effects into account. Hence, we include also a systematic study of the effects of substrate media on the excitonic optical properties of MoS2 and hBN.

  9. Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test Guide

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1995-01-01

    The FAA has available hundreds of computer testing centers nationwide. These testing centers offer the full range of airman knowledge tests including military competence, instrument foreign pilot, and pilot examiner predesignated tests. Refer to appe...

  10. Instrument Rating Knowledge Test Guide

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1995-01-01

    The FAA has available hundreds of computer testing centers nationwide. These testing centers offer the full range of airman knowledge tests including military competence, instrument foreign pilot, and pilot examiner predesignated tests. Refer to appe...

  11. Meta-analyses including data from observational studies.

    PubMed

    O'Connor, Annette M; Sargeant, Jan M

    2014-02-15

    Observational studies represent a wide group of studies where the disease or condition of interest is naturally occurring and the investigator does not control allocation to interventions or exposures. Observational studies are used to test hypotheses about the efficacy of interventions or about exposure-disease relationships, to estimate incidence or prevalence of conditions, and to assess the sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic assays. Experimental-study designs and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) can also contribute to the body of evidence about such questions. Meta-analyses (either with or without systematic reviews) aim to combine information from primary research studies to better describe the entire body of work. The aim of meta-analyses may be to obtain a summary effect size, or to understand factors that affect effect sizes. In this paper, we discuss the role of observational studies in meta-analysis questions and some factors to consider when deciding whether a meta-analysis should include results from such studies. Our suggestion is that one should only include studies that are not at high risk of inherent bias when calculating a summary effect size. Study design however can be a meaningful variable in assessment of outcome heterogeneity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Systems special investigation group overview

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mason, James B.; Dursch, Harry; Edelman, Joel

    1991-01-01

    The Systems Special Investigation Group (SIG) has undertaken investigations in the four major engineering disciplines represented in the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) hardware: electrical, mechanical, thermal, and optical systems. Testing was planned for the highest possible level of assembly, and top level system tests for nearly all systems were performed at this time. To date, testing was performed on a mix of LDEF and individual experimenter systems. No electrical or mechanical system level failures attributed to the spaceflight environment have yet been detected. Some low cost electrical components were used successfully, although relays were a continuing problem. Mechanical galling was observed unexpectedly, but no evidence of cold welding was identified yet. A working index of observed systems anomalies was created and will be used to support the tracking and resolution of these effects. The LDEF hardware currently available to the Systems SIG includes most of the LDEF systems hardware, and some significant experimenter hardware as well. A series of work packages was developed for each of several subsystem types where further testing is of critical interest. The System SIG is distributing a regular newsletter to the greater LDEF community in order to maintain coherence in an investigation which is widely scattered both in subject matter and in geography. Circulation of this informal document has quadrupled in its first year.

  13. Test Series 2. 2: Detailed Test Plan

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

    Not Available

    Test Series 2.2 comprises the third sub-series of tests to be scheduled as a part of Test Series 2, the second stage of the combustion research program to be carried out at the Grimethorpe Experimental Pressurized Fluidized Bed Combustion Facility. Test Series 2.1, the first sub-series of tests, was completed in February 1983, and the first half of the second sub-series, Test Series 2.3, in October 1983. Test Series 2.2 is to consist of 350 data gathering hours, which it is hoped to complete within 560 coal burning hours. This document provides a brief description of the Facility and modificationsmore » which have been made following the completion of Test Series 2.1. No further modifications were made following the completion of the first half of Test Series 2.3. The operating requirements are specified. The tests will be performed using a UK coal (Kiveton Park), and a UK limestone (Middleton) both nominated by the FRG. Nine objectives are proposed which are to be fulfilled by thirteen test conditions. Six part load tests are included, as defined by Kraftwerk Union AG. The cascade is expected to be on line for each test condition and total cascade exposure is expected to be in excess of 450 hours. Details of sampling and special measurements are given. A test plan schedule envisages the test series being completed within a two month calendar period. Finally, a number of contingency strategies are proposed.« less

  14. In Situ Estuarine and Marine Toxicity Testing: A Review, Including Recommendations for Future Use in Ecological Risk Assessment

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-09-01

    testing may be a preferable or complementary strategy in certain situations utilizing a weight of evidence approach (Baird et al. 2007). One of the most...embryonic development, or post-exposure feeding rate are discussed. It is acknowledged that a plethora of additional endpoints have utility for use in situ...example, may have proven utility , it is generally preferable to evaluate toxicity using ecologically relevant species and life stages (i.e., those

  15. A One-Minute "Intelligence" Test.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Griggs, Richard A.

    2000-01-01

    Presents a class activity, in which students take two tests, that requires minimal preparation and encourages discussion on important aspects of testing, such as testing bias. Describes the procedure. Includes the two tests and the answers. (CMK)

  16. CERCA LEU fuel assemblies testing in Maria Reactor - safety analysis summary and testing program scope.

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

    Pytel, K.; Mieleszczenko, W.; Lechniak, J.

    2010-03-01

    The presented paper contains neutronic and thermal-hydraulic (for steady and unsteady states) calculation results prepared to support annex to Safety Analysis Report for MARIA reactor in order to obtain approval for program of testing low-enriched uranium (LEU) lead test fuel assemblies (LTFA) manufactured by CERCA. This includes presentation of the limits and operational constraints to be in effect during the fuel testing investigations. Also, the scope of testing program (which began in August 2009), including additional measurements and monitoring procedures, is described.

  17. A device for testing cables

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hayhurst, Arthur Ray (Inventor)

    1993-01-01

    A device for testing current paths is attachable to a conductor. The device automatically checks the current paths of the conductor for continuity of a center conductor, continuity of a shield, and a short circuit between the shield and the center conductor. The device includes a pair of connectors and a circuit to provide for testing of the conductive paths of a cable to be tested with the circuit paths of the circuit. The circuit paths in the circuit include indicators to simultaneously indicate the results of the testing.

  18. Testing. Occasional Papers 21.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Culhane, P. T., Ed.; White, J., Ed.

    Five papers on testing in English as a second language are included in this volume. "A Preliminary Diagnostic Test for Adult Immigrants" by Johan I. Arthur presents the first stage in a project to develop a test for limited English speaking adults in the Colchester, Essex area. "An Initial Testing Battery on a Course for Air Traffic…

  19. 75 FR 34170 - Circuit Science, Inc., Including Workers Whose Unemployment Insurance (UI) Wages Are Reported...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-16

    ...., Including Workers Whose Unemployment Insurance (UI) Wages Are Reported Through Circuit Test; Plymouth, MN... employment at the subject firm had their wages reported under a separated unemployment insurance (UI) tax...., including workers whose unemployment insurance (UI) wages are reported through Circuit, Plymouth, Minnesota...

  20. Stennis Space Center Conducts Water Flow Test On The B-2 Test Stand

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2018-05-04

    Stennis Space Center completed a water flow test of the refurbished B-2 Test Stand on May 4, 2018. This included both the deflector and the aspirator, individually and together. This test stand is being prepared for the testing of the Space Launch System's booster core, which will utilize four RS-25 rocket engines.

  1. A Battery Test to Evaluate Life-Time Physical Fitness With Same Test Items.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Meshizuka, Tetsuo

    A combination of physical fitness tests designed to be administered to a wide spectrum of the population, male and female, children and adults, is described. Three tests are included in this battery--motor fitness, physical fitness, and sports fitness. The philosophy behind this test structure is that motor fitness tests only measure and indicate…

  2. Trends in Deaths Involving Heroin and Synthetic Opioids Excluding Methadone, and Law Enforcement Drug Product Reports, by Census Region - United States, 2006-2015.

    PubMed

    O'Donnell, Julie K; Gladden, R Matthew; Seth, Puja

    2017-09-01

    Opioid overdose deaths quadrupled from 8,050 in 1999 to 33,091 in 2015 and accounted for 63% of drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2015. During 2010-2015, heroin overdose deaths quadrupled from 3,036 to 12,989 (1). Sharp increases in the supply of heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) are likely contributing to increased deaths (2-6). CDC examined trends in unintentional and undetermined deaths involving heroin or synthetic opioids excluding methadone (i.e., synthetic opioids)* by the four U.S. Census regions during 2006-2015. Drug exhibits (i.e., drug products) obtained by law enforcement and reported to the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA's) National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) that tested positive for heroin or fentanyl (i.e., drug reports) also were examined. All U.S. Census regions experienced substantial increases in deaths involving heroin from 2006 to 2015. Since 2010, the South and West experienced increases in heroin drug reports, whereas the Northeast and Midwest experienced steady increases during 2006-2015. † In the Northeast, Midwest, and South, deaths involving synthetic opioids and fentanyl drug reports increased considerably after 2013. These broad changes in the U.S. illicit drug market highlight the urgent need to track illicit drugs and enhance public health interventions targeting persons using or at high risk for using heroin or IMF.

  3. Test Series 2. 4: detailed test plan

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

    Not Available

    Test Series 2.4 comprises the fourth sub-series of tests to be scheduled as a part of Test Series 2, the second stage of the combustion research program to be carried out at the Grimethorpe Experimental Pressurized Fluidized Bed Combustion Facility. Test Series 2.1, the first sub-series of tests, was completed in February 1983, and the first part of the second sub-series, Test Series 2.3, in October 1983. Test Series 2.2 was completed in February 1984 after which the second part of Test Series 2.3 commenced. The Plan for Test Series 2.4 consists of 350 data gathering hours to be completedmore » within 520 coal burning hours. This document provides a brief description of the Facility and modifications which have been made following the completion of Test Series 2.1. No further modifications were made following the completion of the first part of Test Series 2.3 or Test Series 2.2. The operating requirements for Test Series 2.4 are specified. The tests will be performed using a UK coal (Lady Windsor), and a UK limestone (Middleton) both nominated by the FRG. Seven objectives are proposed which are to be fulfilled by thirteen test conditions. Six part load tests based on input supplied by Kraftwerk Union AG are included. The cascade is expected to be on line for each test condition and total cascade exposure is expected to be in excess of 450 hours. Details of sampling and special measurements are given. A test plan schedule envisages the full test series being completed within a two month calendar period. Finally, a number of contingency strategies are proposed. 3 figures, 14 tables.« less

  4. The compensation of quadrupole errors and space charge effects by using trim quadrupoles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    An, YuWen; Wang, Sheng

    2011-12-01

    The China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) accelerators consist of an H-linac and a proton Rapid Cycling Synchrotron (RCS). RCS is designed to accumulate and accelerate proton beam from 80 MeV to 1.6 GeV with a repetition rate of 25 Hz. The main dipole and quadruple magnet will operate in AC mode. Due to the adoption of the resonant power supplies, saturation errors of magnetic field cannot be compensated by power supplies. These saturation errors will disturb the linear optics parameters, such as tunes, beta function and dispersion function. The strong space charge effects will cause emittance growth. The compensation of these effects by using trim quadruples is studied, and the corresponding results are presented.

  5. Viking 1975 Orbiter Development Test Model/Lander Dynamic Test Model dynamic environmental testing - An overview

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Milder, G.

    1975-01-01

    The current work presents an overview of the Viking 1975 environmental testing from an engineering standpoint. An extremely large vibration test fixture had to be designed, analyzed, and integrated into a test setup that employed hydrostatic bearings in a new fashion. A vibration control system was also required that would allow for thirty-six channels of sine-wave peak select control from acceleration, force-of-strain transducers. In addition, some 68 channels of peak limiting shutdown capability were needed for backup and monitoring of other data during the forced vibration test. Pretesting included analyses of the fixture design, overturning moment, control system capabilities, and response of the entire spacecraft/fixture/exciter system to the test environment. Closed-loop control for acoustic testing was a necessity due to the fact that the Viking spacecraft took up a major portion of the volume of the 10,000 cu ft chamber. The spacecraft emerged from testing undamaged.

  6. Advanced Materials Laboratory User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Orndoff, Evelyne

    2012-01-01

    Test process, milestones and inputs are unknowns to first-time users of the Advanced Materials Laboratory. The User Test Planning Guide aids in establishing expectations for both NASA and non-NASA facility customers. The potential audience for this guide includes both internal and commercial spaceflight hardware/software developers. It is intended to assist their test engineering personnel in test planning and execution. Material covered includes a roadmap of the test process, roles and responsibilities of facility and user, major milestones, facility capabilities, and inputs required by the facility. Samples of deliverables, test article interfaces, and inputs necessary to define test scope, cost, and schedule are included as an appendix to the guide.

  7. CSF glucose test

    MedlinePlus

    Glucose test - CSF; Cerebrospinal fluid glucose test ... The glucose level in the CSF should be 50 to 80 mg/100 mL (or greater than 2/3 ... Abnormal results include higher and lower glucose levels. Abnormal ... or fungus) Inflammation of the central nervous system Tumor

  8. Status of the Flooding Fragility Testing Development

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

    Pope, C. L.; Savage, B.; Bhandari, B.

    2016-06-01

    This report provides an update on research addressing nuclear power plant component reliability under flooding conditions. The research includes use of the Component Flooding Evaluation Laboratory (CFEL) where individual components and component subassemblies will be tested to failure under various flooding conditions. The resulting component reliability data can then be incorporated with risk simulation strategies to provide a more thorough representation of overall plant risk. The CFEL development strategy consists of four interleaved phases. Phase 1 addresses design and application of CFEL with water rise and water spray capabilities allowing testing of passive and active components including fully electrified components.more » Phase 2 addresses research into wave generation techniques followed by the design and addition of the wave generation capability to CFEL. Phase 3 addresses methodology development activities including small scale component testing, development of full scale component testing protocol, and simulation techniques including Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamic (SPH) based computer codes. Phase 4 involves full scale component testing including work on full scale component testing in a surrogate CFEL testing apparatus.« less

  9. IV Spanish Consensus Conference on Helicobacter pylori infection treatment.

    PubMed

    Gisbert, Javier P; Molina-Infante, Javier; Amador, Javier; Bermejo, Fernando; Bujanda, Luis; Calvet, Xavier; Castro-Fernández, Manuel; Cuadrado-Lavín, Antonio; Elizalde, J Ignasi; Gene, Emili; Gomollón, Fernando; Lanas, Ángel; Martín de Argila, Carlos; Mearin, Fermín; Montoro, Miguel; Pérez-Aisa, Ángeles; Pérez-Trallero, Emilio; McNicholl, Adrián G

    2016-12-01

    Helicobacter pylori approximately infect 50% of Spanish population and causes chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer. Until now, three consensus meetings on H.pylori infection had been performed in Spain (the last in 2012). The changes in the treatment schemes, and the increasing available evidence, have justified organizing the IVSpanish Consensus Conference (March 2016), focused on the treatment of this infection. Nineteen experts participated, who performed a systematic review of the scientific evidence and developed a series of recommendation that were subjected to an anonymous Delphi process of iterative voting. Scientific evidence and the strength of the recommendation were classified using GRADE guidelines. As starting point, this consensus increased the minimum acceptable efficacy of recommended treatments that should reach, or preferably surpass, the 90% cure rate when prescribed empirically. Therefore, only quadruple therapies (with or without bismuth), and generally lasting 14 days, are recommended both for first and second line treatments. Non-bismuth quadruple concomitant regimen, including a proton pump inhibitor, clarithromycin, amoxicillin and metronidazole, is recommended as first line. In the present consensus, other first line alternatives and rescue treatments are also reviewed and recommended. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U., AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.

  10. Organic Aerosols in the Presence of CO{sub 2} in the Early Earth and Exoplanets: UV–Vis Refractive Indices of Oxidized Tholins

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

    Gavilan, Lisseth; Carrasco, Nathalie; Vettier, Ludovic

    In this experimental study we investigate the role of atmospheric CO{sub 2} on the optical properties of organic photochemical aerosols. To this end, we add CO{sub 2} to a N{sub 2}:CH{sub 4} gas mixture used in a plasma typically used for Titan studies. We produce organic thin films (tholins) in plasmas where the CO{sub 2}/CH{sub 4} ratio is increased from 0 to 4. We measure these films via spectrometric ellipsometry and apply a Tauc–Lorentz model, used for optically transparent materials, to obtain the thickness of the thin film, its optical band gap, and the refractive indices in the UV–visible (270–600more » nm). All samples present a significant absorption band in the UV. According to the Tauc–Lorentz model, as the CO{sub 2}/CH{sub 4} ratio is quadrupled, the position of the UV band is shifted from ∼177 nm to 264 nm while its strength is quadrupled. Consequently, we infer that oxidized organic aerosols absorb more efficiently at longer UV wavelengths than reduced aerosols. Our laboratory wavelength-tabulated UV–vis refractive indices provide new constraints to atmospheric models of the early Earth and Earth-like exoplanets including photochemical hazes formed under increasingly oxidizing conditions.« less

  11. Joint Detect and Avoid Flight Testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Maliska, Heather; Estrada, Ramon; Euteneuer, Eric; Gong, Chester; Arthur, Keith

    2015-01-01

    This presentation gives insight into a joint flight testing effort that included participation from NASA, Honeywell, and General Atomics. The presentation includes roles and responsibilities, test flow, and encounter requirements and summary.

  12. Contact integrity testing of stress-tested silicon terrestrial solar cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Prince, J. L.; Lathrop, J. W.; Witter, G. W.

    1980-01-01

    A test procedure was developed and applied to terrestrial silicon solar cells in order to determine the effect of accelerated environmental and time-temperature aging on metal contact integrity. Quantities of cells of four different manufacturers were given the contact integrity test after being subjected to accelerated stress tests that included forward bias-temperature, thermal cycle and thermal shock, power cycle, and bias-temperature humidity tests at two temperature-humidity levels. Significant effects due to certain stress tests were found for some cell types. It is concluded that cells fabricated using plated nickel/solder metallization showed significantly more serious contact integrity degradation than silver-metallized cells.

  13. ADM. Fuel Pump House (TAN611). Elevations, floor plan. Drawing includes ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    ADM. Fuel Pump House (TAN-611). Elevations, floor plan. Drawing includes elevation and plans for "H.M." structures (Hose Storage?). Ralph M. Parsons 902-2-ANP-611-A 78 Date: December 1952. Approved by INEEL Classification Office for public release. INEEL index code no. 035-0611-00-693-106741 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Area North, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  14. Development of an International Odor Identification Test for Children: The Universal Sniff Test.

    PubMed

    Schriever, Valentin A; Agosin, Eduardo; Altundag, Aytug; Avni, Hadas; Cao Van, Helene; Cornejo, Carlos; de Los Santos, Gonzalo; Fishman, Gad; Fragola, Claudio; Guarneros, Marco; Gupta, Neelima; Hudson, Robyn; Kamel, Reda; Knaapila, Antti; Konstantinidis, Iordanis; Landis, Basile N; Larsson, Maria; Lundström, Johan N; Macchi, Alberto; Mariño-Sánchez, Franklin; Martinec Nováková, Lenka; Mori, Eri; Mullol, Joaquim; Nord, Marie; Parma, Valentina; Philpott, Carl; Propst, Evan J; Rawan, Ahmed; Sandell, Mari; Sorokowska, Agnieszka; Sorokowski, Piotr; Sparing-Paschke, Lisa-Marie; Stetzler, Carolin; Valder, Claudia; Vodicka, Jan; Hummel, Thomas

    2018-07-01

    To assess olfactory function in children and to create and validate an odor identification test to diagnose olfactory dysfunction in children, which we called the Universal Sniff (U-Sniff) test. This is a multicenter study involving 19 countries. The U-Sniff test was developed in 3 phases including 1760 children age 5-7 years. Phase 1: identification of potentially recognizable odors; phase 2: selection of odorants for the odor identification test; and phase 3: evaluation of the test and acquisition of normative data. Test-retest reliability was evaluated in a subgroup of children (n = 27), and the test was validated using children with congenital anosmia (n = 14). Twelve odors were familiar to children and, therefore, included in the U-Sniff test. Children scored a mean ± SD of 9.88 ± 1.80 points out of 12. Normative data was obtained and reported for each country. The U-Sniff test demonstrated a high test-retest reliability (r 27  = 0.83, P < .001) and enabled discrimination between normosmia and children with congenital anosmia with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 86%. The U-Sniff is a valid and reliable method of testing olfaction in children and can be used internationally. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Abort Flight Test Project Overview

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sitz, Joel

    2007-01-01

    A general overview of the Orion abort flight test is presented. The contents include: 1) Abort Flight Test Project Overview; 2) DFRC Exploration Mission Directorate; 3) Abort Flight Test; 4) Flight Test Configurations; 5) Flight Test Vehicle Engineering Office; 6) DFRC FTA Scope; 7) Flight Test Operations; 8) DFRC Ops Support; 9) Launch Facilities; and 10) Scope of Launch Abort Flight Test

  16. 40 CFR 60.1885 - What must I include in my annual report?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) Dioxins/furans. (2) Cadmium. (3) Lead (4) Mercury. (5) Opacity. (6) Particulate matter. (7) Hydrogen... controlling dioxins/furans or mercury emissions, include four records: (1) The average carbon feed rates recorded during the most recent dioxins/furans and mercury stack tests. (2) The lowest 8-hour block average...

  17. 40 CFR 60.1400 - What must I include in my initial report?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... parameters (use appropriate units as specified in table 2 of this subpart): (1) Dioxins/furans. (2) Cadmium... stack test for dioxins/furans emissions and include supporting calculations. (f) If your municipal waste combustion unit uses activated carbon to control dioxins/furans or mercury emissions, the average carbon feed...

  18. A laboratory medicine residency training program that includes clinical consultation and research.

    PubMed

    Spitzer, E D; Pierce, G F; McDonald, J M

    1990-04-01

    We describe a laboratory medicine residency training program that includes ongoing interaction with both clinical laboratories and clinical services as well as significant research experience. Laboratory medicine residents serve as on-call consultants in the interpretation of test results, design of testing strategies, and assurance of test quality. The consultative on-call beeper system was evaluated and is presented as an effective method of clinical pathology training that is well accepted by the clinical staff. The research component of the residency program is also described. Together, these components provide training in real-time clinical problem solving and prepare residents for the changing technological environment of the clinical laboratory. At the completion of the residency, the majority of the residents are qualified laboratory subspecialists and are also capable of running an independent research program.

  19. Development of Achievement Test: Validity and Reliability Study for Achievement Test on Matter Changing

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kara, Filiz; Celikler, Dilek

    2015-01-01

    For "Matter Changing" unit included in the Secondary School 5th Grade Science Program, it is intended to develop a test conforming the gains described in the program, and that can determine students' achievements. For this purpose, a multiple-choice test of 48 questions is arranged, consisting of 8 questions for each gain included in the…

  20. Testing the Shuttle heat-protection armor

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Strouhal, G.; Tillian, D. J.

    1976-01-01

    The article deals with the thermal protection system (TPS) designed to keep Space Shuttle structures at 350 F ratings over a wide range of temperatures encountered in orbit, but also during prelaunch, launch, deorbit and re-entry, landing and turnaround. The structure, function, fabrication, and bonding of various types of reusable surface insulation and composite materials are described. Test programs are developed for insulation, seals, and adhesion bonds; leak tests and acoustic fatigue tests are mentioned. Test facilities include arc jets, radiant heaters, furnaces, and heated tunnels. The certification tests to demonstrate TPS reusability, structural integrity, thermal performance, and endurance will include full-scale assembly tests and initial orbital flight tests.

  1. Issues in Language Testing Research.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oller, John W., Jr., Ed.

    Practical and technical aspects of language testing research are considered in 23 articles. Topical areas include: testing of general proficiency; the hypothesis of a single unitary factor accounting for reliable variance in tests; the structure of language proficiency; pros and cons of cloze testing; a new functional testing approach; and…

  2. Ares I-X Flight Test Vehicle: Stack 5 Modal Test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buehrle, Ralph D.; Templeton, Justin D.; Reaves, Mercedes C.; Horta, Lucas G.; Gaspar, James L.; Bartolotta, Paul A.; Parks, Russel A.; Lazor, Danel R.

    2010-01-01

    Ares I-X was the first flight test vehicle used in the development of NASA's Ares I crew launch vehicle. The Ares I-X used a 4-segment reusable solid rocket booster from the Space Shuttle heritage with mass simulators for the 5th segment, upper stage, crew module and launch abort system. Three modal tests were defined to verify the dynamic finite element model of the Ares I-X flight test vehicle. Test configurations included two partial stacks and the full Ares I-X flight test vehicle on the Mobile Launcher Platform. This report focuses on the first modal test that was performed on the top section of the vehicle referred to as Stack 5, which consisted of the spacecraft adapter, service module, crew module and launch abort system simulators. This report describes the test requirements, constraints, pre-test analysis, test operations and data analysis for the Ares I-X Stack 5 modal test.

  3. Ares I-X Flight Test Vehicle:Stack 1 Modal Test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buehrle, Ralph D.; Templeton, Justin D.; Reaves, Mercedes C.; Horta, Lucas G.; Gaspar, James L.; Bartolotta, Paul A.; Parks, Russel A.; Lazor, Daniel R.

    2010-01-01

    Ares I-X was the first flight test vehicle used in the development of NASA s Ares I crew launch vehicle. The Ares I-X used a 4-segment reusable solid rocket booster from the Space Shuttle heritage with mass simulators for the 5th segment, upper stage, crew module and launch abort system. Three modal tests were defined to verify the dynamic finite element model of the Ares I-X flight test vehicle. Test configurations included two partial stacks and the full Ares I-X flight test vehicle on the Mobile Launcher Platform. This report focuses on the second modal test that was performed on the middle section of the vehicle referred to as Stack 1, which consisted of the subassembly from the 5th segment simulator through the interstage. This report describes the test requirements, constraints, pre-test analysis, test operations and data analysis for the Ares I-X Stack 1 modal test.

  4. Testing Language Proficiency.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jones, Randall L., Ed.; Spolsky, Bernard, Ed.

    This publication is a compilation of the papers presented at the 1974 Washington Language Testing Sumposium. The volume also includes much of the discussion that followed each paper. The participants were an international group of language testing specialists from academic institutions, research centers, and government agencies. The primary focus…

  5. Calcium Blood Test

    MedlinePlus

    ... Your health care provider may order a calcium test if you have a pre-existing condition that may affect your calcium levels. These include: Kidney disease Thyroid disease Malnutrition Certain types of cancer What happens during a calcium blood test? A health care professional will take a blood ...

  6. Ni-MH storage test and cycle life test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dell, R. Dan; Klein, Glenn C.; Schmidt, David F.

    1994-01-01

    Gates Aerospace Batteries is conducting two long term test programs to fully characterize the NiMH cell technology for aerospace applications. The first program analyzes the effects of long term storage upon cell performance. The second program analyzes cycle life testing and preliminary production lot testing. This paper summarizes these approaches to testing the NiMH couple and culminates with initial storage and testing recommendations. Long term storage presents challenges to deter the adverse condition of capacity fade in NiMH cells. Elevated but stabilized pressures and elevated but stabilized end-of-charge voltages also appear to be a characteristic phenomenon of long term storage modes. However, the performance degradation is dependent upon specific characteristics of the metal-hydride alloy. To date, there is no objective evidence with which to recommend the proper method for storage and handling of NiMH cells upon shipment. This is particularly critical due to limited data points that indicate open circuit storage at room temperature for 60 to 90 days will result in irrecoverable capacity loss. Accordingly a test plan was developed to determine what method of mid-term to long-term storage will prevent irrecoverable capacity loss. The explicit assumption is that trickle charging at some rate above the self-discharge rate will prevent the irreversible chemical changes to the negative electrode that result in the irrecoverable capacity loss. Another premise is that lower storage temperatures, typically 0 C for aerospace customers, will impede any negative chemical reactions. Three different trickle charge rates are expected to yield a fairly flat response with respect to recoverable capacity versus baseline cells in two different modes of open circuit. Specific attributes monitored include: end-of-charge voltage, end-of-charge pressure, mid-point discharge voltage, capacity, and end-of-discharge pressure. Cycle life testing and preliminary production lot

  7. OSI Conformance Testing for Bibliographic Applications.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arbez, Gilbert; Swain, Leigh

    1990-01-01

    Describes the development of Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) conformance testing sites, conformance testing tools, and conformance testing services. Discusses related topics such as interoperability testing, arbitration testing, and international harmonization of conformance testing. A glossary is included. (24 references) (SD)

  8. Linear test bed. Volume 1: Test bed no. 1. [aerospike test bed with segmented combustor

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1972-01-01

    The Linear Test Bed program was to design, fabricate, and evaluation test an advanced aerospike test bed which employed the segmented combustor concept. The system is designated as a linear aerospike system and consists of a thrust chamber assembly, a power package, and a thrust frame. It was designed as an experimental system to demonstrate the feasibility of the linear aerospike-segmented combustor concept. The overall dimensions are 120 inches long by 120 inches wide by 96 inches in height. The propellants are liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen. The system was designed to operate at 1200-psia chamber pressure, at a mixture ratio of 5.5. At the design conditions, the sea level thrust is 200,000 pounds. The complete program including concept selection, design, fabrication, component test, system test, supporting analysis and posttest hardware inspection is described.

  9. Profit-driven drug testing.

    PubMed

    Collen, Mark

    2012-01-01

    Random drug testing of people being treated for chronic pain has become more common. Physicians may drug test patients on opioid therapy as a result of concerns over prosecution, drug misuse, addiction, and overdose. However, profit motive has remained unexplored. This article suggests profits also drive physician drug-testing behavior and evidence is offered, including an exploration of Medicare reimbursement incentives and kickbacks for drug testing.

  10. Blade Testing Trends (Presentation)

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

    Desmond, M.

    2014-08-01

    As an invited guest speaker, Michael Desmond presented on NREL's NWTC structural testing methods and capabilities at the 2014 Sandia Blade Workshop held on August 26-28, 2014 in Albuquerque, NM. Although dynamometer and field testing capabilities were mentioned, the presentation focused primarily on wind turbine blade testing, including descriptions and capabilities for accredited certification testing, historical methodology and technology deployment, and current research and development activities.

  11. 9 CFR 51.26 - Record of tests.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 9 Animals and Animal Products 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Record of tests. 51.26 Section 51.26... each animal. The claimant must provide any information necessary to complete the form. The test record must include the type of test and the test results for each animal. It must also include the individual...

  12. Thruster endurance test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Collett, C.

    1976-01-01

    A test system was built and several short term tests were completed. The test system included, in addition to the 30-cm ion thruster, a console for powering the thruster and monitoring performance, a vacuum facility for simulating a space environment, and a storage and feed system for the thruster propellant. This system was used to perform three short term tests (one 100-hour and two 500-hour tests), an 1108-hour endurance test which was aborted by a vacuum facility failure, and finally the 10,000-hour endurance test. In addition to the two 400 series thrusters which were used in the short term and 1100-hour tests, four more 400 series thrusters were fabricated, checked out, and delivered to NASA. Three consoles similar to the one used in the test program were also fabricated and delivered.

  13. Test Preparation: Your Role

    MedlinePlus

    ... transport the sample from home to the lab. Examples of some common laboratory tests that require advance preparation include: Glucose tolerance, fasting, and two-hour post-prandial blood glucose tests : fasting or eating meals ...

  14. Good Laboratory Practices of Materials Testing at NASA White Sands Test Facility

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hirsch, David; Williams, James H.

    2005-01-01

    An approach to good laboratory practices of materials testing at NASA White Sands Test Facility is presented. The contents include: 1) Current approach; 2) Data analysis; and 3) Improvements sought by WSTF to enhance the diagnostic capability of existing methods.

  15. [Effects of a Facial Muscle Exercise Program including Facial Massage for Patients with Facial Palsy].

    PubMed

    Choi, Hyoung Ju; Shin, Sung Hee

    2016-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a facial muscle exercise program including facial massage on the facial muscle function, subjective symptoms related to paralysis and depression in patients with facial palsy. This study was a quasi-experimental research with a non-equivalent control group non-synchronized design. Participants were 70 patients with facial palsy (experimental group 35, control group 35). For the experimental group, the facial muscular exercise program including facial massage was performed 20 minutes a day, 3 times a week for two weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, χ²-test, Fisher's exact test and independent sample t-test with the SPSS 18.0 program. Facial muscular function of the experimental group improved significantly compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in symptoms related to paralysis between the experimental group and control group. The level of depression in the experimental group was significantly lower than the control group. Results suggest that a facial muscle exercise program including facial massage is an effective nursing intervention to improve facial muscle function and decrease depression in patients with facial palsy.

  16. NEXT Single String Integration Test Results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Soulas, George C.; Patterson, Michael J.; Pinero, Luis; Herman, Daniel A.; Snyder, Steven John

    2010-01-01

    As a critical part of NASA's Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) test validation process, a single string integration test was performed on the NEXT ion propulsion system. The objectives of this test were to verify that an integrated system of major NEXT ion propulsion system elements meets project requirements, to demonstrate that the integrated system is functional across the entire power processor and xenon propellant management system input ranges, and to demonstrate to potential users that the NEXT propulsion system is ready for transition to flight. Propulsion system elements included in this system integration test were an engineering model ion thruster, an engineering model propellant management system, an engineering model power processor unit, and a digital control interface unit simulator that acted as a test console. Project requirements that were verified during this system integration test included individual element requirements ; integrated system requirements, and fault handling. This paper will present the results of these tests, which include: integrated ion propulsion system demonstrations of performance, functionality and fault handling; a thruster re-performance acceptance test to establish baseline performance: a risk-reduction PMS-thruster integration test: and propellant management system calibration checks.

  17. [Using projective tests in forensic psychiatry may lead to wrong conclusions. Only empirically tested tests should be used].

    PubMed

    Trygg, L; Dåderman, A M; Wiklund, N; Meurling, A W; Lindgren, M; Lidberg, L; Levander, S

    2001-06-27

    The use of projective and psychometric psychological tests at the Department of Forensic Psychiatry in Stockholm (Huddinge), Sweden, was studied for a population of 60 men, including many patients with neuropsychological disabilities and multiple psychiatric disorders. The results showed that the use of projective tests like Rorschach, Object Relations Test, and House-Tree-Person was more frequent than the use of objective psychometric tests. Neuropsychological test batteries like the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Test Battery or Luria-Nebraska Neuropsychological Battery were not used. The majority of patients were, however, assessed by intelligence scales like the WAIS-R. The questionable reliability and validity of the projective tests, and the risk of subjective interpretations, raise a problem when used in a forensic setting, since the courts' decisions about a sentence to prison or psychiatric care is based on the forensic psychiatric assessment. The use of objective psychometric neuropsychological tests and personality tests is recommended.

  18. Energy Systems Test Area (ESTA) Pyrotechnic Operations: User Test Planning Guide

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hacker, Scott

    2012-01-01

    The Johnson Space Center (JSC) has created and refined innovative analysis, design, development, and testing techniques that have been demonstrated in all phases of spaceflight. JSC is uniquely positioned to apply this expertise to components, systems, and vehicles that operate in remote or harsh environments. We offer a highly skilled workforce, unique facilities, flexible project management, and a proven management system. The purpose of this guide is to acquaint Test Requesters with the requirements for test, analysis, or simulation services at JSC. The guide includes facility services and capabilities, inputs required by the facility, major milestones, a roadmap of the facility s process, and roles and responsibilities of the facility and the requester. Samples of deliverables, facility interfaces, and inputs necessary to define the cost and schedule are included as appendices to the guide.

  19. Cluster Development Test 2: An Assessment of a Failed Test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Machin, Ricardo A.; Evans, Carol T.

    2009-01-01

    On 31 July 2008 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Crew Exploration Vehicle Parachute Assembly System team conducted the final planned cluster test of the first generation parachute recovery system design. The two primary test objectives were to demonstrate the operation of the complete parachute system deployed from a full scale capsule simulator and to demonstrate the test technique of separating the capsule simulator from the Low Velocity Air Drop pallet used to extract the test article from a United States Air Force C-17 aircraft. The capsule simulator was the Parachute Test Vehicle with an accurate heat shield outer mold line and forward bay compartment of the Crew Exploration Vehicle Command Module. The Parachute Test Vehicle separated cleanly from the pallet following extraction, but failed to reach test conditions resulting in the failure of the test and the loss of the test assets. No personnel were injured. This paper will discuss the design of the test and the findings of the team that investigated the test, including a discussion of what were determined to be the root causes of the failure.

  20. V/STOL wind-tunnel testing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Koenig, D. G.

    1984-01-01

    Factors influencing effective program planning for V/STOL wind-tunnel testing are discussed. The planning sequence itself, which includes a short checklist of considerations that could enhance the value of the tests, is also described. Each of the considerations, choice of wind tunnel, type of model installation, model development and test operations, is discussed, and examples of appropriate past and current V/STOL test programs are provided. A short survey of the moderate to large subsonic wind tunnels is followed by a review of several model installations, from two-dimensional to large-scale models of complete aircraft configurations. Model sizing, power simulation, and planning are treated, including three areas is test operations: data-acquisition systems, acoustic measurements in wind tunnels, and flow surveying.