Property Analysis of the Real-Time Uncalibrated Phase Delay Product Generated by Regional Reference Stations and Its Influence on Precise Point Positioning Ambiguity Resolution

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yong; Wang, Qing; Jiang, Xinyuan

2017-01-01

The real-time estimation of the wide-lane and narrow-lane Uncalibrated Phase Delay (UPD) of satellites is realized by real-time data received from regional reference station networks; The properties of the real-time UPD product and its influence on real-time precise point positioning ambiguity resolution (RTPPP-AR) are experimentally analyzed according to real-time data obtained from the regional Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network located in Tianjin, Shanghai, Hong Kong, etc. The results show that the real-time wide-lane and narrow-lane UPD products differ significantly from each other in time-domain characteristics; the wide-lane UPDs have daily stability, with a change rate of less than 0.1 cycle/day, while the narrow-lane UPDs have short-term stability, with significant change in one day. The UPD products generated by different regional networks have obvious spatial characteristics, thus significantly influencing RTPPP-AR: the adoption of real-time UPD products employing the sparse stations in the regional network for estimation is favorable for improving the regional RTPPP-AR up to 99%; the real-time UPD products of different regional networks slightly influence PPP-AR positioning accuracy. After ambiguities are successfully fixed, the real-time dynamic RTPPP-AR positioning accuracy is better than 3 cm in the plane and 8 cm in the upward direction. PMID:28534844

Property Analysis of the Real-Time Uncalibrated Phase Delay Product Generated by Regional Reference Stations and Its Influence on Precise Point Positioning Ambiguity Resolution.

PubMed

Zhang, Yong; Wang, Qing; Jiang, Xinyuan

2017-05-19

The real-time estimation of the wide-lane and narrow-lane Uncalibrated Phase Delay (UPD) of satellites is realized by real-time data received from regional reference station networks; The properties of the real-time UPD product and its influence on real-time precise point positioning ambiguity resolution (RTPPP-AR) are experimentally analyzed according to real-time data obtained from the regional Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network located in Tianjin, Shanghai, Hong Kong, etc. The results show that the real-time wide-lane and narrow-lane UPD products differ significantly from each other in time-domain characteristics; the wide-lane UPDs have daily stability, with a change rate of less than 0.1 cycle/day, while the narrow-lane UPDs have short-term stability, with significant change in one day. The UPD products generated by different regional networks have obvious spatial characteristics, thus significantly influencing RTPPP-AR: the adoption of real-time UPD products employing the sparse stations in the regional network for estimation is favorable for improving the regional RTPPP-AR up to 99%; the real-time UPD products of different regional networks slightly influence PPP-AR positioning accuracy. After ambiguities are successfully fixed, the real-time dynamic RTPPP-AR positioning accuracy is better than 3 cm in the plane and 8 cm in the upward direction.

NChina16: A stable geodetic reference frame for geological hazard studies in north China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, G.; Yan, B.; Gan, W.; Geng, J.

2017-12-01

This study established a stable North China Reference Frame 2016 (NChina16) using five years of continuous GPS observations (2011.8 to 2016.8) from 12 continuously operating reference stations (CORS) fixed to the stable interior of the North China Craton. Applications of NChina16 in landslide, subsidence, and post-seismic displacement studies are illustrated. The primary result of this study is the seven parameters for transforming Cartesian ECEF (Earth-Centered, Earth-Fixed) coordinates X, Y, and Z from the International GNSS Service Reference Frame 2008 (IGS08) to NChina16. The seven parameters include the epoch that is used to tie the regional reference frame to IGS08 and the time derivatives of three translations and three rotations. A method for developing a regional geodetic reference frame is introduced in detail. The GIPSY-OASIS (V6.4) software package was used to obtain the precise point positioning (PPP) time series with respect to IGS08. The stability (accuracy) of NChina16 is about 0.5 mm/year in both vertical and horizontal directions. This study also developed a regional seasonal model for correcting vertical displacement time series data derived from the PPP solutions. Long-term GPS observations (1999-2016) from five CORS in north China were used to develop the seasonal model. According to this study, the PPP daily solutions with respect to NChina16 could achieve 2-3 mm horizontal accuracy and 4-5 mm vertical accuracy after being modified by the regional model. NChina16 will be critical to the long-term landslide, subsidence, fault, and structural monitoring in north China and for ongoing post-seismic crustal deformation studies in Japan. NChina16 will be incrementally improved and synchronized with the IGS reference frame update.

Dynamic Heights in the Great Lakes at Different Epochs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roman, D. R.

2016-12-01

Vertical control in the Great Lakes region is currently defined by the International Great Lakes Datum of 1985 (IGLD 85) in the form of dynamic heights. Starting in 2025, dynamic heights will be defined through GNSS-derived geometric coordinates and a geopotential model. This paper explores the behavior of an existing geopotential model at different epochs when the Great Lakes were at significantly different (meter-level) geopotential surfaces. Water surfaces were examined in 2015 and 2010 at six sites on Lakes Superior and Lake Erie (three on each Lake). These sites have collocated a Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) and a Water Level Sensor (WLS). The offset between the antenna phase center for the CORS and the WLS datum are known at each site. The WLS then measures the distance from its datum to the Lake surface via an open well. Thus it is possible to determine the height above an ellipsoid datum at these sites as long as both the CORS and WLS are operational. The geometric coordinates are then used to estimate the geopotential value from the xGEOID16B model. This accomplished in two steps. To provide an improved reference model, EGM2008 was spectrally enhanced using observations from the GOCE satellite gravity mission and aerogravity from the Gravity for the Redefinition of the American Vertical Datum (GRAV-D) Project. This enhanced model, xGEOID16B_Ref, is still only a five arcminute resolution model (d/o 2160), but resolves dynamic heights at about 2 cm on Lake Superior for December 2015. The reference model was primarily developed to determine a one arcminute geoid height grid, xGEOID16B, available on the NGS website. This geoid height model was used to iteratively develop improved geopotential value for each of the site locations, which then improved comparisons to the cm-level. Comparisons were then made at the 2010 epoch for these same locations to determine if the performance of the geopotential model was consistent.

Characteristics of equatorial plasma bubble zonal drift velocity and tilt based on Hong Kong GPS CORS network: From 2001 to 2012

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Shengyue; Chen, Wu; Weng, Duojie; Wang, Zhenjie

2015-08-01

Hong Kong (22.3°N, 114.2°E, dip: 30.5°N; geomagnetic 15.7°N, 173.4°W, declination: 2.7°W) is a low-latitude area, and the Hong Kong Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network has been developed and maintained by Lands Department of Hong Kong government since 2001. Based on the collected GPS observations of a whole solar cycle from 2001 to 2012, a method is proposed to estimate the zonal drift velocity as well as the tilt of the observed plasma bubbles, and the estimated results are statistically analyzed. It is found that although the plasma bubbles are basically vertical within the equatorial plane, the tilt can be as big as more than 60° eastward or westward sometimes. And, the tilt and the zonal drift velocity are correlated. When the velocity is large, the tilt is also large generally. Another finding is that large velocity and tilt generally occur in spring and autumn and in solar active years.

Continuous atmospheric monitoring of the injected CO2 behavior over geological storage sites using flux stations: latest technologies and resources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, George; Madsen, Rodney; Feese, Kristin

2014-05-01

Flux stations have been widely used to monitor emission rates of CO2 from various ecosystems for climate research for over 30 years [1]. The stations provide accurate and continuous measurements of CO2 emissions with high temporal resolution. Time scales range from 20 times per second for gas concentrations, to 15-minute, hourly, daily, and multi-year periods. The emissions are measured from the upwind area ranging from thousands of square meters to multiple square kilometers, depending on the measurement height. The stations can nearly instantaneously detect rapid changes in emissions due to weather events, as well as changes caused by variations in human-triggered events (pressure leaks, control releases, etc.). Stations can also detect any slow changes related to seasonal dynamics and human-triggered low-frequency processes (leakage diffusion, etc.). In the past, station configuration, data collection and processing were highly-customized, site-specific and greatly dependent on "school-of-thought" practiced by a particular research group. In the last 3-5 years, due to significant efforts of global and regional CO2 monitoring networks (e.g., FluxNet, Ameriflux, Carbo-Europe, ICOS, etc.) and technological developments, the flux station methodology became fairly standardized and processing protocols became quite uniform [1]. A majority of current stations compute CO2 emission rates using the eddy covariance method, one of the most direct and defensible micrometeorological techniques [1]. Presently, over 600 such flux stations are in operation in over 120 countries, using permanent and mobile towers or moving platforms (e.g., automobiles, helicopters, and airplanes). Atmospheric monitoring of emission rates using such stations is now recognized as an effective method in regulatory and industrial applications, including carbon storage [2-8]. Emerging projects utilize flux stations to continuously monitor large areas before and after the injections, to locate and quantify leakages from the subsurface, to improve storage efficiency, and for other storage characterizations [5-8]. In this presentation, the latest regulatory and methodological updates are provided regarding atmospheric monitoring of the injected CO2 behavior using flux stations. These include 2013 improvements in methodology, as well as the latest literature, including regulatory documents for using the method and step-by-step instructions on implementing it in the field. Updates also include 2013 development of a fully automated remote unattended flux station capable of processing data on-the-go to continuously output final CO2 emission rates in a similar manner as a standard weather station outputs weather parameters. References: [1] Burba G. Eddy Covariance Method for Scientific, Industrial, Agricultural and Regulatory Applications. LI-COR Biosciences; 2013. [2] International Energy Agency. Quantification techniques for CO2 leakage. IEA-GHG; 2012. [3] US Department of Energy. Best Practices for Monitoring, Verification, and Accounting of CO2 Stored in Deep Geologic Formations. US DOE; 2012. [4] Liu G. (Ed.). Greenhouse Gases: Capturing, Utilization and Reduction. Intech; 2012. [5] Finley R. et al. An Assessment of Geological Carbon Sequestration Options in the Illinois Basin - Phase III. DOE-MGSC; DE-FC26-05NT42588; 2012. [6] LI-COR Biosciences. Surface Monitoring for Geologic Carbon Sequestration. LI-COR, 980-11916, 2011. [7] Eggleston H., et al. (Eds). IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, IPCC NGGI P, WMO/UNEP; 2006-2011. [8] Burba G., Madsen R., Feese K. Eddy Covariance Method for CO2 Emission Measurements in CCUS Applications: Principles, Instrumentation and Software. Energy Procedia, 40C: 329-336; 2013.

A comprehensive method for GNSS data quality determination to improve ionospheric data analysis.

PubMed

Kim, Minchan; Seo, Jiwon; Lee, Jiyun

2014-08-14

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are now recognized as cost-effective tools for ionospheric studies by providing the global coverage through worldwide networks of GNSS stations. While GNSS networks continue to expand to improve the observability of the ionosphere, the amount of poor quality GNSS observation data is also increasing and the use of poor-quality GNSS data degrades the accuracy of ionospheric measurements. This paper develops a comprehensive method to determine the quality of GNSS observations for the purpose of ionospheric studies. The algorithms are designed especially to compute key GNSS data quality parameters which affect the quality of ionospheric product. The quality of data collected from the Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network in the conterminous United States (CONUS) is analyzed. The resulting quality varies widely, depending on each station and the data quality of individual stations persists for an extended time period. When compared to conventional methods, the quality parameters obtained from the proposed method have a stronger correlation with the quality of ionospheric data. The results suggest that a set of data quality parameters when used in combination can effectively select stations with high-quality GNSS data and improve the performance of ionospheric data analysis.

A Comprehensive Method for GNSS Data Quality Determination to Improve Ionospheric Data Analysis

PubMed Central

Kim, Minchan; Seo, Jiwon; Lee, Jiyun

2014-01-01

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are now recognized as cost-effective tools for ionospheric studies by providing the global coverage through worldwide networks of GNSS stations. While GNSS networks continue to expand to improve the observability of the ionosphere, the amount of poor quality GNSS observation data is also increasing and the use of poor-quality GNSS data degrades the accuracy of ionospheric measurements. This paper develops a comprehensive method to determine the quality of GNSS observations for the purpose of ionospheric studies. The algorithms are designed especially to compute key GNSS data quality parameters which affect the quality of ionospheric product. The quality of data collected from the Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network in the conterminous United States (CONUS) is analyzed. The resulting quality varies widely, depending on each station and the data quality of individual stations persists for an extended time period. When compared to conventional methods, the quality parameters obtained from the proposed method have a stronger correlation with the quality of ionospheric data. The results suggest that a set of data quality parameters when used in combination can effectively select stations with high-quality GNSS data and improve the performance of ionospheric data analysis. PMID:25196005

A Demonstration of GPS Landslide Monitoring Using Online Positioning User Service (OPUS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, G.

2011-12-01

Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies have been frequently applied to landslide study, both as a complement, and as an alternative to conventional surveying methods. However, most applications of GPS for landslide monitoring have been limited to the academic community for research purposes. High-accuracy GPS has not been widely equipped in geotechnical companies and used by technicians. The main issue that limits the applications of GPS in the practice of high-accuracy landslide monitoring is the complexity of GPS data processing. This study demonstrated an approach using the Online Positioning User Service (OPUS) (http://www.ngs.noaa.gov/OPUS) provided by the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to process GPS data and conduct long-term landslide monitoring in the Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands Region. Continuous GPS data collected at a creeping landslide site during two years were used to evaluate different scenarios for landslide surveying: continuous or campaign, long duration or short duration, morning or afternoon (different weather conditions). OPUS uses Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) managed by NGS (http://www.ngs.noaa.giv/CORS/) as references and user data as a rover to solve a position. There are 19 CORS permanent GPS stations in the Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands region. The dense GPS network provides a precise and reliable reference frame for subcentimeter-accuracy landslide monitoring in this region. Our criterion for the accuracy was the root-mean-square (RMS) of OPUS solutions over a 2-year period with respect to true landslide displacement time series overt the same period. The true landslide displacements were derived from a single-baseline (130 m) GPS processing by using 24-hour continuous data. If continuous GPS surveying is performed in the field, then OPUS static processing can provide 0.6 cm horizontal and 1.1 cm vertical precision with few outliers. If repeated campaign-style surveying is performed in the field, then the choice of observation time window and duration are very important. In order to detect a suspected sliding mass and track the kinematics of a creeping landslide, sub-centimeter horizontal accuracy is often required. OPUS static solutions for sessions of 4 hours or longer and OPUS rapid-static solutions for sessions as short as 15 minutes can achieve accuracy at this level if data collection during extreme weather conditions is avoided, such as rainfall and storm time. This study also indicated that rainfall events can seriously degrade the performance of high-accuracy GPS. Field GPS landslide surveying should avoid rainfall time that is usually accompanied by thunderstorms and the passage of weather fronts.

The African Reference Frame (AFREF) project: a fundamental geodetic tool for Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farah, H.

2009-04-01

AFREF has as objective the establishment and maintenance of a unified geodetic reference frame for Africa, which will support and facilitate fundamental scientific and technical projects. The installation of observation systems all over Africa will provide important data that can be used in many different scientific fields (e.g., geodynamics, meteorological). Furthermore, AFREF will create an uniform frame that will support development projects, uniform environmental and mapping programmes as well as aid in resolving current and future international boundary disputes. This reference frame will be based on the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) and will be realised through the establishment of a network of permanent Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers. In close collaboration with several institutional role players, AFREF is an initiative of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Committee on Development Information (CODI). A steering committee is currently responsible for the over-all management and coordination of the implementation of AFREF. Implementation of AFREF is envisaged to be at national level in collaboration with National Mapping Organizations. Furthermore, many scientific Institutions are contributing for the densification of the network. The current status of the AFREF network will be discussed in detail. Several CORS systems have been installed to support AFREF specifically. In addition, most or all of the IGS stations located in Africa will automatically qualify as AFREF core stations. Furthermore, we will show examples of interaction between specific projects and AFREF that are contributing for the development of science in Africa.

Suppressing effect of COR659 on alcohol, sucrose, and chocolate self-administration in rats: involvement of the GABAB and cannabinoid CB1 receptors.

PubMed

Maccioni, Paola; Colombo, Giancarlo; Lorrai, Irene; Zaru, Alessandro; Carai, Mauro A M; Gessa, Gian Luigi; Brizzi, Antonella; Mugnaini, Claudia; Corelli, Federico

2017-09-01

COR659 [methyl2-(4-chlorophenylcarboxamido)-4-ethyl-5-methylthiophene-3-carboxylate] is a new, positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of the GABA B receptor. This study evaluated whether COR659 shared with previously tested GABA B PAMs the capacity to reduce alcohol self-administration in rats. Treatment with non-sedative doses of COR659 (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg; i.p.) suppressed lever-responding for alcohol (15% v/v) in Sardinian alcohol-preferring (sP) rats under the fixed ratio (FR) 4 (FR4) and progressive ratio (PR) schedules of reinforcement; COR659 was more potent and effective than the reference GABA B PAM, GS39783. Treatment with COR659, but not GS39783, suppressed (a) lever-responding for a sucrose solution (1-3% w/v) in sP rats under the FR4 and PR schedules, (b) lever-responding for a chocolate solution [5% (w/v) Nesquik®] in Wistar rats under the FR10 and PR schedules, and (c) cue-induced reinstatement of chocolate seeking in Wistar rats. Treatment with COR659 was completely ineffective on lever-responding (FR10) for regular food pellets in food-deprived Wistar rats. Pretreatment with the GABA B receptor antagonist, SCH50911, partially blocked COR659-induced reduction of alcohol self-administration, being ineffective on reduction of chocolate self-administration. Pretreatment with the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor antagonist, AM4113, fully blocked COR659-induced reduction of chocolate self-administration, being ineffective on reduction of alcohol self-administration. COR659 might exert its behavioral effects via a composite mechanism: (i) positive allosteric modulation of the GABA B receptor, responsible for a large proportion of reduction of alcohol self-administration; (ii) an action at other receptor system(s), including the cannabinoid CB 1 receptor, through which COR659 affects seeking and consumption of highly palatable foods.

Phylo_dCor: distance correlation as a novel metric for phylogenetic profiling.

PubMed

Sferra, Gabriella; Fratini, Federica; Ponzi, Marta; Pizzi, Elisabetta

2017-09-05

Elaboration of powerful methods to predict functional and/or physical protein-protein interactions from genome sequence is one of the main tasks in the post-genomic era. Phylogenetic profiling allows the prediction of protein-protein interactions at a whole genome level in both Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes. For this reason it is considered one of the most promising methods. Here, we propose an improvement of phylogenetic profiling that enables handling of large genomic datasets and infer global protein-protein interactions. This method uses the distance correlation as a new measure of phylogenetic profile similarity. We constructed robust reference sets and developed Phylo-dCor, a parallelized version of the algorithm for calculating the distance correlation that makes it applicable to large genomic data. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli genome datasets, we showed that Phylo-dCor outperforms phylogenetic profiling methods previously described based on the mutual information and Pearson's correlation as measures of profile similarity. In this work, we constructed and assessed robust reference sets and propose the distance correlation as a measure for comparing phylogenetic profiles. To make it applicable to large genomic data, we developed Phylo-dCor, a parallelized version of the algorithm for calculating the distance correlation. Two R scripts that can be run on a wide range of machines are available upon request.

Earthquake Related Variation of Total Electron Content in Ionosphere over Chinese Mainland Derived from Observations of a Nationwide GNSS Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gan, Weijun

2016-07-01

Crustal Movement Observation Network of China (CMONOC) is a key national scientific infrastructure project carried out during 1997-2012 with 2 phases. The network is composed of 260 continuously observed GNSS stations (CORS) and 2081 campaign mode GNSS stations, with the main purpose to monitor the crustal movement, perceptible water vapor (PWV), total electron content (TEC), and many other tectonic and environmental elements around mainland China, by mainly using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. Here, based on the GNSS data of 260 CORS of COMNOC for about 5 years, we investigated the characteristics of TEC in ionosphere over Chinese Mainland and discussed if there was any abnormal change of TEC before and after a big earthquake. our preliminary results show that it is hard to see any convincing precursor of TEC before a big earthquake. However, the huge energy released by a big earthquake can obviously disturb the TEC over meizoseismal area.

Criteria for Centers of Reference for pediatric diabetes--a European perspective.

PubMed

Danne, Thomas; Lion, Sylvia; Madaczy, Lazlo; Veeze, Henk; Raposo, Fillipe; Rurik, Imre; Aschemeier, Bärbel; Kordonouri, Olga

2012-09-01

'SWEET' is an acronym standing for 'Better control in pediatric and adolescent diabeteS: Working to crEate CEnTers of Reference (CORs)' and is based on a partnership of established national and European diabetes organizations such as International Diabetes Federation, Federation of European Nurses in Diabetes, and Primary Care Diabetes Europe (PCDE, www.sweet-project.eu). A three-level classification of centers has been put forward. In addition to centers for local care, SWEET collaborating centers on their way to being a COR have been defined. Peer-audited CORs with a continuous electronic documentation of at least 150 pediatric patients with diabetes treated by a multidisciplinary team based on the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) Clinical Practice recommendations have been created in 12 European countries. In 2011, they cared for between 150 to more than 700 youth with diabetes with an average hemoglobin A1c between 7.6 and 9.2%. Although these clinics should not be regarded as representative for the whole country, the acknowledgment as COR includes a common objective of targets and guidelines as well as recognition of expertise in treatment and education at the center. In a first step, the SWEET Online platform allows 12 countries using 11 languages to connect to one unified diabetes database. Aggregate data are de-identified and exported for longitudinal health and economic data analysis. Through their network, the CORs wish to obtain political influence on a national and international level and to facilitate dissemination of new approaches and techniques. The SWEET project hopes to extend from the initial group of centers within countries, throughout Europe, and beyond with the help of the ISPAD network. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Study of Ground Subsidence in North West Houston using GPS, LiDAR and InSAR techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karacay, A.; Khan, S. D.

2012-12-01

Land subsidence can be caused by natural or human activities, such as carbonate dissolution, extraction of material from mines, soil compaction and fluid withdrawal. This phenomenon affects many cities around the world, such as Nagoya-Japan, Venice-Italy, San Joaquin Valley and Long Beach in California. Recent work by Engelkemeir et al, (2010), suggested that subsidence occurred as high as 5.6 cm/year in northwest Houston. The processes that may contribute to land subsidence in the Houston-Galveston area includes faulting, soil compaction, salt tectonic, water pumping and hydrocarbon extraction. This study aims to assess the possible role of water pumping on subsidence. Northwest Houston has two aquifer systems, the Evangeline and Chicot aquifers that dip in the southeast direction. The effect of water pumping on subsidence from these two aquifers was monitored using InSAR, GPS and LiDAR data. The data from eleven GPS stations were processed using Online Positioning User Service (OPUS) of National Geodetic Survey (NGS). Three of these GPS stations are Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) and eight are Port-A-Measure (PAM) sites. All the GPS data were obtained from Harris-Galveston Subsidence District (HGSD). CORS sites were used as reference stations for processing GPS data from the PAM stations. GPS data show that subsidence rate in northwest Houston decreased to approximately 2 cm/year. In addition, the surface deformation is also estimated using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technique. For this purpose, raw LiDAR (LAS-Long ASCII Standart) files of 2001 and 2008 were processed. The subsidence rate near the Hockley Fault was calculated by applying zonal statistics method on LiDAR data which shows about 10 cm of subsidence in nine years. This result is supported by processed GPS data from PAM site 48 that show subsidence rate of 1.3 cm/yr. For the InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) technique, an image pair of PALSAR (The Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar) for 2008 was processed using Sarscape ENVI. The result demonstrates both uplift (approximately 5 mm near the Tomball salt dome) and subsidence (approximately 5.3 mm on the west part of Tomball region). In order to improve results, other image pairs from PALSAR, ERS1/2 and ENVISAT are being processed to monitor surface changes before and after 2000. Changes of groundwater level in the study area were observed, in order to distinguish the amount of land subsidence caused by groundwater withdrawal. The groundwater historical observation data were taken from The USGS National Water Information System (NWIS). The results of the groundwater level between 1990 and 2011 show approximately 0.5 m per year of water decline in the study area. Results of these complementary techniques will help in assessing the possible role of the water pumping from the subsurface on the subsidence in the area.

Dense Velocity Field of Turkey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozener, H.; Aktug, B.; Dogru, A.; Tasci, L.

2017-12-01

While the GNSS-based crustal deformation studies in Turkey date back to early 1990s, a homogenous velocity field utilizing all the available data is still missing. Regional studies employing different site distributions, observation plans, processing software and methodology not only create reference frame variations but also heterogeneous stochastic models. While the reference frame effect between different velocity fields could easily be removed by estimating a set of rotations, the homogenization of the stochastic models of the individual velocity fields requires a more detailed analysis. Using a rigorous Variance Component Estimation (VCE) methodology, we estimated the variance factors for each of the contributing velocity fields and combined them into a single homogenous velocity field covering whole Turkey. Results show that variance factors between velocity fields including the survey mode and continuous observations can vary a few orders of magnitude. In this study, we present the most complete velocity field in Turkey rigorously combined from 20 individual velocity fields including the 146 station CORS network and totally 1072 stations. In addition, three GPS campaigns were performed along the North Anatolian Fault and Aegean Region to fill the gap between existing velocity fields. The homogenously combined new velocity field is nearly complete in terms of geographic coverage, and will serve as the basis for further analyses such as the estimation of the deformation rates and the determination of the slip rates across main fault zones.

Corneal biomechanical data and biometric parameters measured with Scheimpflug-based devices on normal corneas

PubMed Central

Nemeth, Gabor; Szalai, Eszter; Hassan, Ziad; Lipecz, Agnes; Flasko, Zsuzsa; Modis, Laszlo

2017-01-01

AIM To analyze the correlations between ocular biomechanical and biometric data of the eye, measured by Scheimpflug-based devices on healthy subjects. METHODS Three consecutive measurements were carried out using the corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology (CorVis ST) device on healthy eyes and the 10 device-specific parameters were recorded. Pentacam HR-derived parameters (corneal curvature radii on the anterior and posterior surfaces; apical pachymetry; corneal volume; corneal aberration data; depth, volume and angle of the anterior chamber) and axial length (AL) from IOLMaster were correlated with the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters. RESULTS Measurements were conducted in 43 eyes of 43 volunteers (age 61.24±15.72y). The 10 specific CorVis ST data showed significant relationships with corneal curvature radii both on the anterior and posterior surface, pachymetric data, root mean square (RMS) data of lower-order aberrations, and posterior RMS of higher-order aberrations and spherical aberration of the posterior cornea. Anterior chamber depth showed a significant relationship, but there were no significant correlations between corneal volume, anterior chamber volume, mean chamber angle or AL and the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters. CONCLUSIONS CorVis ST-generated parameters are influenced by corneal curvature radii, some corneal RMS data, but corneal volume, anterior chamber volume, chamber angle and AL have no correlation with the biomechanical parameters. The parameters measured by CorVis ST seem to refer mostly to corneal properties of the eye. PMID:28251079

Corneal biomechanical data and biometric parameters measured with Scheimpflug-based devices on normal corneas.

PubMed

Nemeth, Gabor; Szalai, Eszter; Hassan, Ziad; Lipecz, Agnes; Flasko, Zsuzsa; Modis, Laszlo

2017-01-01

To analyze the correlations between ocular biomechanical and biometric data of the eye, measured by Scheimpflug-based devices on healthy subjects. Three consecutive measurements were carried out using the corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology (CorVis ST) device on healthy eyes and the 10 device-specific parameters were recorded. Pentacam HR-derived parameters (corneal curvature radii on the anterior and posterior surfaces; apical pachymetry; corneal volume; corneal aberration data; depth, volume and angle of the anterior chamber) and axial length (AL) from IOLMaster were correlated with the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters. Measurements were conducted in 43 eyes of 43 volunteers (age 61.24±15.72y). The 10 specific CorVis ST data showed significant relationships with corneal curvature radii both on the anterior and posterior surface, pachymetric data, root mean square (RMS) data of lower-order aberrations, and posterior RMS of higher-order aberrations and spherical aberration of the posterior cornea. Anterior chamber depth showed a significant relationship, but there were no significant correlations between corneal volume, anterior chamber volume, mean chamber angle or AL and the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters. CorVis ST-generated parameters are influenced by corneal curvature radii, some corneal RMS data, but corneal volume, anterior chamber volume, chamber angle and AL have no correlation with the biomechanical parameters. The parameters measured by CorVis ST seem to refer mostly to corneal properties of the eye.

Archive of side scan sonar and swath bathymetry data collected during USGS cruise 10CCT03 offshore of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Mississippi, from East Ship Island, Mississippi, to Dauphin Island, Alabama, April 2010

USGS Publications Warehouse

DeWitt, Nancy T.; Flocks, James G.; Pfeiffer, William R.; Gibson, James N.; Wiese, Dana S.

2012-01-01

Data were collected aboard the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) SV Irvington, a 56-foot (ft) Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc., catamaran (fig. 2). Side scan sonar and multibeam bathymetry data were collected simultaneously along the tracklines. The side scan sonar towfish was towed off the starboard side just slightly behind the vessel, close to the seafloor. The multibeam transducer was attached to a retractable strut-arm lowered between the catamaran hulls. Navigation was acquired with an Applanix POS MV and differentially corrected using the broadcast signal from a local National Geodetic Survey (NGS) Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) beacon. See the digital FACS equipment log for details about the acquisition equipment used. Raw datasets were stored digitally and processed using HYPACK Inc., HYSWEEP software at the USACE Mobile, Ala., District office. For more information on processing refer to the Equipment and Processing page. Chirp seismic data were also collected during this survey and are archived separately.

Generation of Unbiased Ionospheric Corrections in Brazilian Region for GNSS positioning based on SSR concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monico, J. F. G.; De Oliveira, P. S., Jr.; Morel, L.; Fund, F.; Durand, S.; Durand, F.

2017-12-01

Mitigation of ionospheric effects on GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals is very challenging, especially for GNSS positioning applications based on SSR (State Space Representation) concept, which requires the knowledge of spatial correlated errors with considerable accuracy level (centimeter). The presence of satellite and receiver hardware biases on GNSS measurements difficult the proper estimation of ionospheric corrections, reducing their physical meaning. This problematic can lead to ionospheric corrections biased of several meters and often presenting negative values, which is physically not possible. In this contribution, we discuss a strategy to obtain SSR ionospheric corrections based on GNSS measurements from CORS (Continuous Operation Reference Stations) Networks with minimal presence of hardware biases and consequently physical meaning. Preliminary results are presented on generation and application of such corrections for simulated users located in Brazilian region under high level of ionospheric activity.

Observations of Global and Regional Ionospheric Irregularities and Scintillation Using GNSS Tracking Networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pi, Xiaoqing; Mannucci, Anthony J.; Valant-Spaight, Bonnie; Bar-Sever, Yoaz; Romans, Larry J.; Skone, Susan; Sparks, Lawrence; Hall, G. Martin

2013-01-01

The rate of TEC index (ROTI) is a measurement that characterizes ionospheric irregularities. It can be obtained from standard GNSS dual-frequency phase data collected using a geodetic type of GNSS receiver. By processing GPS data from ground-based networks of International GNSS Service and Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS), ROTI maps have been produced to observe global and regional scintillation activities. A major mid-latitude scintillation event in the contiguous United States is reported here that was captured in ROTI maps produced using CORS GPS data collected during a space weather storm. The analyses conducted in this work and previously by another group indicate that ROTI is a good occurrence indicator of both amplitude and phase scintillations of GPS L-band signals, even though the magnitudes of ROTI, S4, and sigma(sub phi) can be different. For example, our analysis indicates that prominent ROTI and the L1 phase scintillation (sigma(sub phi)) are well correlated temporally in the polar region while L1 amplitude scintillation rarely occurs. The differences are partially attributed to physics processes in different latitude regions, such as high-speed plasma convection in the polar region that can suppress the amplitude scintillation. An analysis of the impact of ionospheric scintillation on precise positioning, which requires use of dual-frequency phase data, is also conducted. The results indicate that significant (more than an order of magnitude) positioning errors can occur under phase scintillation conditions.

Investigation of Potential Landsubsidence using GNSS CORS UDIP and DinSAR, Sayung, Demak, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuwono, B. D.; Prasetyo, Y.; Islama, L. J. F.

2018-02-01

The coastal flooding induced by land subsidence is one of major social problems in the coastal area of Central Java, especially North Demak. Recent advance technology Global Navigation Satellite System Continuously Operating System (GNSS) and Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry ( DInSAR) is already increased our capability to identify of land subsidence processes. DInSAR required not only availability of good quality input data but also rigorous approaches. In this research we used DInSAR analysis with focusing on landsubsidence phenomena. Tests were done with geodetic GPS survey with GNSS CORS UDIP as base station. Performance assessment of development method was conducted on study area affected by land subsidence. The results of this study indicate land subsidence spreads in study area with varying degrees of subsidence.

Concordia CCD - A Geoscope station in continental Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maggi, A.; Lévêque, J.; Thoré, J.; Bes de Berc, M.; Bernard, A.; Danesi, S.; Morelli, A.; Delladio, A.; Sorrentino, D.; Stutzmann, E.; Geoscope Team

2010-12-01

Concordia (Dome C, Antarctica) has had a permanent seismic station since 2005. It is run by EOST and INGV in collaboration with the French and Italian polar institutes (IPEV and PNRA). It is installed in an ice-vault, at 12m depth, distant 1km from the permanent scientific base at Concordia. The temperature in the vault is a constant -55°C. The data quality at the station has improved continuously since its installation. In 2007, the station was declared at ISC as an open station with station code CCD (ConCorDia), with data available upon request. It is only the second permanent station in the Antarctic continent, after South Pole. In 2010, CCD was included in the Geoscope network. Data from CCD starting in 2007 are now freely available from the Geoscope Data Center and IRIS. We present an analysis of the data quality at CCD, and describe the technical difficulties of operating an observatory-quality seismic station in the extreme environmental conditons present in continental Antarctica.

Using the STROBE statement to assess reporting in blindness prevalence surveys in low and middle income countries.

PubMed

Ramke, Jacqueline; Palagyi, Anna; Jordan, Vanessa; Petkovic, Jennifer; Gilbert, Clare E

2017-01-01

Cross-sectional blindness prevalence surveys are essential to plan and monitor eye care services. Incomplete or inaccurate reporting can prevent effective translation of research findings. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement is a 32 item checklist developed to improve reporting of observational studies. The aim of this study was to assess the completeness of reporting in blindness prevalence surveys in low and middle income countries (LMICs) using STROBE. MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science databases were searched on April 8 2016 to identify cross-sectional blindness prevalence surveys undertaken in LMICs and published after STROBE was published in December 2007. The STROBE tool was applied to all included studies, and each STROBE item was categorized as 'yes' (met criteria), 'no' (did not meet criteria) or 'not applicable'. The 'Completeness of reporting (COR) score' for each manuscript was calculated: COR score = yes / [yes + no]. In journals with included studies the instructions to authors and reviewers were checked for reference to STROBE. The 89 included studies were undertaken in 32 countries and published in 37 journals. The mean COR score was 60.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.1-63.7%; range 30.8-88.9%). The mean COR score did not differ between surveys published in journals with author instructions referring to STROBE (10/37 journals; 61.1%, 95%CI 56.4-65.8%) or in journals where STROBE was not mentioned (60.9%, 95%CI 57.4-64.3%; p = 0.93). While reporting in blindness prevalence surveys is strong in some areas, others need improvement. We recommend that more journals adopt the STROBE checklist and ensure it is used by authors and reviewers.

Whole-genome re-sequencing of two Italian tomato landraces reveals sequence variations in genes associated with stress tolerance, fruit quality and long shelf-life traits.

PubMed

Tranchida-Lombardo, Valentina; Aiese Cigliano, Riccardo; Anzar, Irantzu; Landi, Simone; Palombieri, Samuela; Colantuono, Chiara; Bostan, Hamed; Termolino, Pasquale; Aversano, Riccardo; Batelli, Giorgia; Cammareri, Maria; Carputo, Domenico; Chiusano, Maria Luisa; Conicella, Clara; Consiglio, Federica; D'Agostino, Nunzio; De Palma, Monica; Di Matteo, Antonio; Grandillo, Silvana; Sanseverino, Walter; Tucci, Marina; Grillo, Stefania

2017-11-14

Tomato is a high value crop and the primary model for fleshy fruit development and ripening. Breeding priorities include increased fruit quality, shelf life and tolerance to stresses. To contribute towards this goal, we re-sequenced the genomes of Corbarino (COR) and Lucariello (LUC) landraces, which both possess the traits of plant adaptation to water deficit, prolonged fruit shelf-life and good fruit quality. Through the newly developed pipeline Reconstructor, we generated the genome sequences of COR and LUC using datasets of 65.8 M and 56.4 M of 30-150 bp paired-end reads, respectively. New contigs including reads that could not be mapped to the tomato reference genome were assembled, and a total of 43, 054 and 44, 579 gene loci were annotated in COR and LUC. Both genomes showed novel regions with similarity to Solanum pimpinellifolium and Solanum pennellii. In addition to small deletions and insertions, 2, 000 and 1, 700 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) could exert potentially disruptive effects on 1, 371 and 1, 201 genes in COR and LUC, respectively. A detailed survey of the SNPs occurring in fruit quality, shelf life and stress tolerance related-genes identified several candidates of potential relevance. Variations in ethylene response components may concur in determining peculiar phenotypes of COR and LUC. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Kazusa DNA Research Institute.

Coupling of N2O and CO2 fluxes from agriculture in Michigan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, M.; Tang, J.; Hastings, M. G.; Gelfand, I.; Tao, L.; Sun, K.

2012-12-01

CO2 has been known to cause global warming, and N2O is the largest contributor to the greenhouse gas burden of cropping systems in the United States due to application of fertilizer. In our study, fluxes of N2O and CO2 were measured at two maize fields and one reference grassland from Kellogg Biological Station in Southwest Michigan. Here we compared two measuring systems, traditional GC method and LGR/Li-Cor system. Our initial results show that the two measuring systems are consistent (N2O slope=0.96, R2=0.96; and CO2 slope= 1.03, R2=0.86 measuring from the same chamber). Measurements done in pairs of chambers suggest great spatial variations, despite that the chambers were only 0.5 meter apart. The two systems are still comparable by averaging 8 pairs of chambers distributed within one site. Increase of CO2 fluxes were observed the second day after fertilization, but no significant change of N2O fluxes was shown. After artificial rainfall, boosting N2O fluxes and further increase in CO2 fluxes were demonstrated. Our result indicates that precipitation is necessary before a prominent N2O peak. In our LGR/Li-Cor system, CO was also measured from chambers. Interesting CO fluxes were shown in our experiment. Soil, which is usually considered as a CO sink, emits CO in some chambers during our measurement, which is probably related to the nationwide forest fires and lack of precipitation during the period.

Micrometeorological Technique for Monitoring of Geological Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage: Methodology, Workflow and Resources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, G. G.; Madsen, R.; Feese, K.

2013-12-01

The eddy covariance (EC) method is a micrometeorological technique for direct high-speed measurements of the transport of gases and energy between land or water surfaces and the atmosphere [1]. This method allows for observations of gas transport scales from 20-40 times per second to multiple years, represents gas exchange integrated over a large area, from hundreds of square meters to tens of square kilometres, and corresponds to gas exchange from the entire surface, including canopy, and soil or water layers. Gas fluxes, emission and exchange rates are characterized from single-point in situ measurements using permanent or mobile towers, or moving platforms such as automobiles, helicopters, airplanes, etc. Presently, over 600 eddy covariance stations are in operation in over 120 countries [1]. EC is now recognized as an effective method in regulatory and industrial applications, including CCUS [2-10]. Emerging projects utilize EC to continuously monitor large areas before and after the injections, to locate and quantify leakages where CO2 may escape from the subsurface, to improve storage efficiency, and for other CCUS characterizations [5-10]. Although EC is one of the most direct and defensible micrometeorological techniques measuring gas emission and transport, and complete automated stations and processing are readily available, the method is mathematically complex, and requires careful setup and execution specific to the site and project. With this in mind, step-by-step instructions were created in [1] to introduce a novice to the EC method, and to assist in further understanding of the method through more advanced references. In this presentation we provide brief highlights of the eddy covariance method, its application to geological carbon capture, utilization and storage, key requirements, instrumentation and software, and review educational resources particularly useful for carbon sequestration research. References: [1] Burba G. Eddy Covariance Method for Scientific, Industrial, Agricultural and Regulatory Applications. LI-COR Biosciences; 2013. [2] International Energy Agency. Quantification techniques for CO2 leakage. IEA-GHG; 2012. [3] US Department of Energy. Best Practices for Monitoring, Verification, and Accounting of CO2 Stored in Deep Geologic Formations. US DOE; 2012. [4] Liu G. (Ed.). Greenhouse Gases: Capturing, Utilization and Reduction. Intech; 2012. [5] Finley R. et al. An Assessment of Geological Carbon Sequestration Options in the Illinois Basin - Phase III. DOE-MGSC; DE-FC26-05NT42588; 2012. [6] LI-COR Biosciences. Surface Monitoring for Geologic Carbon Sequestration. LI-COR, 980-11916, 2011. [7] Lewicki J., Hilley G. Eddy covariance mapping and quantification of surface CO2 leakage fluxes. GRL, 2009; 36: L21802. [8] Finley R. An Assessment of Geological Carbon Sequestration in the Illinois Basin. Overview of the Decatur-Illinois Basin Site. DOE-MGSC; 2009. [9] Eggleston H., et al. (Eds). IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, IPCC NGGI P, WMO/UNEP; 2006-2011. [10] Burba G., Madsen R., Feese K. Eddy Covariance Method for CO2 Emission Measurements in CCUS Applications: Principles, Instrumentation and Software. Energy Procedia; Submitted: 1-8.

Review of variations in Mw < 7 earthquake motions on position and TEC (Mw = 6.5 Aegean Sea earthquake sample)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yildirim, Omer; Inyurt, Samed; Mekik, Cetin

2016-02-01

Turkey is a country located in the middle latitude zone, where tectonic activity is intensive. Recently, an earthquake of magnitude 6.5 Mw occurred offshore in the Aegean Sea on 24 May 2014 at 09:25 UTC, which lasted about 40 s. The earthquake was also felt in Greece, Romania, and Bulgaria in addition to Turkey. In recent years, ionospheric anomaly detection studies have been carried out because of seismicity with total electron content (TEC) computed from the global navigation satellite system's (GNSS) signal delays and several interesting findings have been published. In this study, both TEC and positional variations have been examined separately following a moderate size earthquake in the Aegean Sea. The correlation of the aforementioned ionospheric variation with the positional variation has also been investigated. For this purpose, a total of 15 stations was used, including four continuously operating reference stations in Turkey (CORS-TR) and stations in the seismic zone (AYVL, CANA, IPSA, and YENC), as well as international GNSS service (IGS) and European reference frame permanent network (EPN) stations. The ionospheric and positional variations of the AYVL, CANA, IPSA, and YENC stations were examined using Bernese v5.0 software. When the precise point positioning TEC (PPP-TEC) values were examined, it was observed that the TEC values were approximately 4 TECU (total electron content unit) above the upper-limit TEC value at four stations located in Turkey, 3 days before the earthquake at 08:00 and 10:00 UTC. At the same stations, on the day before the earthquake at 06:00, 08:00, and 10:00 UTC, the TEC values were approximately 5 TECU below the lower-limit TEC value. The global ionosphere model TEC (GIM-TEC) values published by the Centre for Orbit Determination in Europe (CODE) were also examined. Three days before the earthquake, at all stations, it was observed that the TEC values in the time period between 08:00 and 10:00 UTC were approximately 2 TECU above the upper-limit TEC value; 1 day before the earthquake at 06:00, 08:00, and 10:00 UTC, the TEC values were approximately 4 TECU below the lower-limit TEC value. Again, by using the same 15 stations, positional variation investigation for before and after the earthquake was undertaken for the AYVL, CANA, IPSA, and YENC stations. As a result of the conducted analysis, positional displacements were seen before and after the earthquake at the CANA station, which is the nearest station to the earthquake centre. Before and after the earthquake, positional displacements were observed as 10 and 3 cm respectively.

The 2001 January 13th M {W}7.7 and February 13th M {W}6.6 El Salvador Earthquakes: Deformation and Stress Triggering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hreinsdóttir, S.; Freymueller, J. T.

2001-12-01

On the 13th of January 2001, an M {W} 7.7 normal fault earthquake occurred offshore El Salvador. The earthquake occurred in the subducting Cocos plate and was followed by high seismic activity and several earthquakes exceeding magnitude 5. On the 13th of February, an M {W} 6.6 strike slip earthquake occurred in the overriding Caribbean plate, about 75 km NNW from the epicenter of the large January earthquake. Deformation due to these earthquakes was observed at six continuous CORS GPS stations in Central America. In the M {W} 7.7 earthquake about 10 mm displacement was measured at GPS stations in El Salvador and Honduras. A smaller but significant dispacement was also observed at GPS stations in Nicaragua, more then 200 km from the earthquake's epicenter. In the M {W} 6.6 earthquake 41+/- 1 mm displacement in direction N111oE was measured at the GPS station in San Salvador, El Salvador. Other CORS GPS stations were not affected by that earthquake. A postsesmic signal is detectable at the San Salvador GPS station, strongest right after the earthquake and then decays. On average we see 0.3 +/- 0.1 mm/day of SSW motion of the station in the first twenty days following the earthquake. Using seismic and geodetic data, we calculated Coulomb stress changes following the January 13th, M {W} 7.7 earthquake. Of special interest were six 5.4 <= {M} {W}<=5.8 thrust events that presumably occurred on the interface between the Caribean and Cocos plate, and the M {W} 6.6 strike slip earthquake that occurred in the overriding Caribean plate. The location and focal mechanism of these earthquakes correlate with areas of calculated increase in static stress thus indicating stress triggering. The thrust events occurred 2 to 20 days after the M {W} 7.7 earthquake, in increasing distance from the M {W} 7.7 event with time.

Evaluating Pseudorange Multipath at CGPS Stations Spanning Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vazquez, G.; Bennett, R. A.; Spinler, J. C.

2013-12-01

A research study was conducted in order to quantify and analyze the amount of pseudorange multipath at continuous Global Positioning System (CGPS) stations spanning Mexico. These CGPS stations are administered by a variety of organizations, including government agencies and public universities, and thus serve a wide range of positioning needs. Despite the diversity of the networks and their intended audiences, a core function of all of the networks is to provide a stable framework for high-precision positioning in support of diverse commercial and scientific applications. CGPS data from a large number of publicly available networks located in Mexico were studied. These include the RGNA (National Active Geodetic Network) administered by INEGI (National Institute of Statistics and Geography), the PBO network (Plate Boundary Observatory) funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and operated by UNAVCO (University NAVstar Consortium), the Southern California Integrated GPS Network (SCIGN), which is a collaboration effort of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the UNAM network, operated by the National Seismological System (SSN) and the Institute of Geophysics of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the Suominet Geodetic Network (SNG) and the CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Station) network, operated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A total of 54 CGPS stations were evaluated, where dual-frequency geodetic-grade receivers collected GPS data continuously during the period from 1994 to 2013. It is usually assumed that despite carefully selected locations, all CGPS stations are to some extent, affected by the presence of signal multipath. In addition, the geographic distribution of stations provides a nation-wide access to the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). For real-time kinematic (RTK) and rapid static applications that depend on the pseudo-range observable, the accuracy with which a roaming user may locate their assets with respect to the ITRF may be limited by site-specific multipath. The issue is particularly critical for users depending on pseudorange measurements for 'real-time' (or 'near-real-time') kinematic GPS positioning, where ambiguity resolution is a critical step. Therefore, to identify the most and the least affected GPS stations we analyzed the averaged daily root mean square pseudorange multipath variations (MP1-RMS and MP2-RMS) for all feasible satellites tracked by the CGPS networks. We investigated the sources of multipath, including changes associated with hardware replacement (i.e., receiver and antenna type) and receiver firmware upgrades.

Regulations in the field of Geo-Information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Felus, Y.; Keinan, E.; Regev, R.

2013-10-01

The geomatics profession has gone through a major revolution during the last two decades with the emergence of advanced GNSS, GIS and Remote Sensing technologies. These technologies have changed the core principles and working procedures of geomatics professionals. For this reason, surveying and mapping regulations, standards and specifications should be updated to reflect these changes. In Israel, the "Survey Regulations" is the principal document that regulates the professional activities in four key areas geodetic control, mapping, cadastre and Georaphic information systems. Licensed Surveyors and mapping professionals in Israel are required to work according to those regulations. This year a new set of regulations have been published and include a few major amendments as follows: In the Geodesy chapter, horizontal control is officially based on the Israeli network of Continuously Operating GNSS Reference Stations (CORS). The regulations were phrased in a manner that will allow minor datum changes to the CORS stations due to Earth Crustal Movements. Moreover, the regulations permit the use of GNSS for low accuracy height measurements. In the Cadastre chapter, the most critical change is the move to Coordinate Based Cadastre (CBC). Each parcel corner point is ranked according to its quality (accuracy and clarity of definition). The highest ranking for a parcel corner is 1. A point with a rank of 1 is defined by its coordinates alone. Any other contradicting evidence is inferior to the coordinates values. Cadastral Information is stored and managed via the National Cadastral Databases. In the Mapping and GIS chapter; the traditional paper maps (ranked by scale) are replaced by digital maps or spatial databases. These spatial databases are ranked by their quality level. Quality level is determined (similar to the ISO19157 Standard) by logical consistency, completeness, positional accuracy, attribute accuracy, temporal accuracy and usability. Metadata is another critical component of any spatial database. Every component in a map should have a metadata identification, even if the map was compiled from multiple resources. The regulations permit the use of advanced sensors and mapping techniques including LIDAR and digita l cameras that have been certified and meet the defined criteria. The article reviews these new regulations and the decision that led to them.

Cold Extrusion but Not Coating Affects Iron Bioavailability from Fortified Rice in Young Women and Is Associated with Modifications in Starch Microstructure and Mineral Retention during Cooking.

PubMed

Hackl, Laura; Speich, Cornelia; Zeder, Christophe; Sánchez-Ferrer, Antoni; Adelmann, Horst; de Pee, Saskia; Tay, Fabian; Zimmermann, Michael B; Moretti, Diego

2017-12-01

Background: Rice can be fortified with the use of hot or cold extrusion or coating, but the nutritional qualities of the resulting rice grains have never been directly compared. Objective: Using fortified rice produced by coating or hot or cold extrusion, we compared 1 ) iron and zinc absorption with the use of stable isotopes, 2 ) iron and zinc retention during cooking, and 3 ) starch microstructure. Methods: We conducted 2 studies in young women: in study 1 [ n = 19; mean ± SD age: 26.2 ± 3.4 y; body mass index (BMI; in kg/m 2 ): 21.3 ± 1.6], we compared the fractional iron absorption (FAFe) from rice meals containing isotopically labeled ferric prophosphate ( 57 FePP), zinc oxide (ZnO), citric acid, and micronutrients fortified through hot extrusion (HER1) with rice meals fortified through cold extrusion containing 57 FePP, ZnO, citric acid, and micronutrients (CER); in study 2 ( n = 22; age: 24 ± 4 y; BMI: 21.2 ± 1.3), we compared FAFe and fractional zinc absorption (FAZn) from rice meals fortified through hot extrusion (HER2) compared with rice meals fortified through coating containing 57 FePP, ZnO, a citric acid and trisodium cirate mixture (CA/TSC), and micronutrients (COR) relative to rice meals extrinsically fortified with ferrous sulfate (reference). Rice types HER1 and CER contained citric acid, whereas types HER2 and COR contained CA/TSC. We assessed retention during standardized cooking experiments and characterized the rice starch microstructure. Results: FAFe (95% CI) was greater from CER [2.2% (1.4%, 3.4%)] than from HER1 [1.2% (0.7%, 2.0%)] ( P = 0.036). There was no difference in FAFe between HER2 [5.1% (3.7%, 7.1%)] and COR [4.0% (2.9%, 5.4%)] ( P = 0.14), but FAFe from COR was lower than that from the reference meal [6.6% (4.9%, 9.0%)] ( P = 0.003), and the geometric mean FAZn (95% CI) did not differ between HER2 [9.5% (7.9%, 11.6%)] and COR [9.6% (8.7%, 10.7%)] ( P = 0.92). Cooking in a rice-to-water ratio of 1:2 resulted in iron and zinc retentions >80%, and cooking in excess water did not affect iron retention from hot-extruded rice but caused iron losses of 25% from CER and COR. Distinct variations in starch microstructure were found in CER and HER1. Conclusions: Iron absorption was 64% higher from CER than from hot-extruded rice, with no difference between COR compared with hot-extruded rice. Lower extrusion temperatures may generate a more readily digestible starch structure, allowing for greater iron release in vivo but lower mineral retention during cooking. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02176759. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Blue Light- and Low Temperature-Regulated COR27 and COR28 Play Roles in the Arabidopsis Circadian Clock.

PubMed

Li, Xu; Ma, Dingbang; Lu, Sheen X; Hu, Xinyi; Huang, Rongfeng; Liang, Tong; Xu, Tongda; Tobin, Elaine M; Liu, Hongtao

2016-11-01

Light and temperature are two key environmental signals that profoundly affect plant growth and development, but underlying molecular mechanisms of how light and temperature signals affect the circadian clock are largely unknown. Here, we report that COR27 and COR28 are regulated not only by low temperatures but also by light signals. COR27 and COR28 are negative regulators of freezing tolerance but positive regulators of flowering, possibly representing a trade-off between freezing tolerance and flowering. Furthermore, loss-of-function mutations in COR27 and COR28 result in period lengthening of various circadian output rhythms and affect central clock gene expression. Also, the cor27 cor28 double mutation affects the pace of the circadian clock. Additionally, COR27 and COR28 are direct targets of CCA1, which represses their transcription via chromatin binding. Finally, we report that COR27 and COR28 bind to the chromatin of TOC1 and PRR5 to repress their transcription, suggesting that their effects on rhythms are in part due to their regulation of TOC1 and PRR5 These data demonstrate that blue light and low temperature-regulated COR27 and COR28 regulate the circadian clock as well as freezing tolerance and flowering time. © 2016 American Society of Plant Biologists. All rights reserved.

The determination of interseismic, coseismic and postseismic deformations caused by the Gökçeada-Samothraki earthquake (2014, Mw: 6.9) based on GNSS data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiryakioglu, Ibrahim; Yigit, Cemal Ozer; Yavasoglu, Hakan; Saka, Mehmet Halis; Alkan, Reha Metin

2017-09-01

Since the 1990s, seismic deformations have been commonly determined using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Recently, the GNSS systems have become even more powerful with the use of new technologies in innovative studies. In this study, the GNSS data was used to investigate interseismic, coseismic and postseismic deformation and velocity of the Gökçeada-Samothraki earthquake (Mw = 6.9) that occurred on May 24, 2014. The data was obtained at 30 s (0.033 Hz) and 1 s (1 Hz) intervals from the GNSS receivers in the network of Continuously Operating Reference Stations, Turkey (CORS-TR). For the interseismic period, the daily coordinate time series of 12 stations located within 90-250 km of the earthquake epicenter was evaluated for the displacement of stations over a period of approximately 2000 days prior to the day of the earthquakes, from October 1, 2008 to May 23, 2014. In order to analyze the ground motion displacement during the Gökçeada-Samothraki earthquake, 1 Hz data from 8 continuous GNSS stations was processed using precise point positioning (PPP) and relative positioning methods to estimate the epoch-by-epoch positions of the stations. During the earthquake, coseismic displacements of approximately 7 and 30 mm were detected in the NW direction at the YENC and CANA stations, respectively. However, at the IPSA station, a coseismic deformation of 20 mm was observed in the NE direction. There were no significant changes at the other stations during the earthquake. For the postseismic period, the daily coordinate time series of the 12 stations were evaluated for station displacements for 570 days after the day of the earthquakes, from May 24, 2014 to January 1, 2016. The results demonstrated that no significant postseismic deformation with the exception of the EDIR station. An abnormal deformation caused by local factors was determined at the EDIR station. In this study, the PPP and the relative solution were also compared in terms of capturing the earthquake wave motion. The results demonstrated that the PPP-based solutions showed good agreement with those of relative positioning in terms of the ability to capture coseismic displacement.

Crystallographic Orientation Relationships (CORs) between rutile inclusions and garnet hosts: towards using COR frequencies as a petrogenetic indicator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffiths, Thomas; Habler, Gerlinde; Schantl, Philip; Abart, Rainer

2017-04-01

Crystallographic orientation relationships (CORs) between crystalline inclusions and their hosts are commonly used to support particular inclusion origins, but often interpretations are based on a small fraction of all inclusions in a system. The electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) method allows collection of large COR datasets more quickly than other methods while maintaining high spatial resolution. Large datasets allow analysis of the relative frequencies of different CORs, and identification of 'statistical CORs', where certain limited degrees of freedom exist in the orientation relationship between two neighbour crystals (Griffiths et al. 2016). Statistical CORs exist in addition to completely fixed 'specific' CORs (previously the only type of COR considered). We present a comparison of three EBSD single point datasets (all N > 200 inclusions) of rutile inclusions in garnet hosts, covering three rock systems, each with a different geological history: 1) magmatic garnet in pegmatite from the Koralpe complex, Eastern Alps, formed at temperatures > 600°C and low pressures; 2) granulite facies garnet rims on ultra-high-pressure garnets from the Kimi complex, Rhodope Massif; and 3) a Moldanubian granulite from the southeastern Bohemian Massif, equilibrated at peak conditions of 1050°C and 1.6 GPa. The present study is unique because all datasets have been analysed using the same catalogue of potential CORs, therefore relative frequencies and other COR properties can be meaningfully compared. In every dataset > 94% of the inclusions analysed exhibit one of the CORs tested for. Certain CORs are consistently among the most common in all datasets. However, the relative abundances of these common CORs show large variations between datasets (varying from 8 to 42 % relative abundance in one case). Other CORs are consistently uncommon but nonetheless present in every dataset. Lastly, there are some CORs that are common in one of the datasets and rare in the remainder. These patterns suggest competing influences on relative COR frequencies. Certain CORs seem consistently favourable, perhaps pointing to very stable low energy configurations, whereas some CORs are favoured in only one system, perhaps due to particulars of the formation mechanism, kinetics or conditions. Variations in COR frequencies between datasets seem to correlate with the conditions of host-inclusion system evolution. The two datasets from granulite-facies metamorphic samples show more similarities to each other than to the pegmatite dataset, and the sample inferred to have experienced the highest temperatures (Moldanubian granulite) shows the lowest diversity of CORs, low frequencies of statistical CORs and the highest frequency of specific CORs. These results provide evidence that petrological information is being encoded in COR distributions. They make a strong case for further studies of the factors influencing COR development and for measurements of COR distributions in other systems and between different phases. Griffiths, T.A., Habler, G., Abart, R. (2016): Crystallographic orientation relationships in host-inclusion systems: New insights from large EBSD data sets. Amer. Miner., 101, 690-705.

The effect of observing session duration on OPUS-RS results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dincer Dogru, A.; Ugur Sanli, D.; Hayal, Adem G.; Berber, Mustafa

2016-04-01

Online GPS positioning software has now a widespread interest among practitioners and researchers. Researchers rescently use online software to monitor natural hazards such as landslides. The fact that this software usually employs continuously operating GPS stations of the International GNSS Service (IGS) as reference stations in the processing, the community of world-wide users is growing day by day. In the monitoring of landslides, rapid static mode of a GPS surveying is usually preferred because it is possible to have wider field coverage with only a few minutes of data and low cost ground markers. Results comparable to static positioning can be obtained with careful network design and processing strategies. Some online software such as OPUS-RS developed by the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) of the USA provides rapid static positioning engine that processes GPS data from sessions of only a few minutes. 15-minute is the recommended/standard observing session duration for OPUS-RS processing. In this study, using the CORS data operating in the US, we carried out some tests in which the observing session duration is changed from 8 through 118 minutes, and observed the accuracy change on the OPUS-RS solutions. Then we compared the results with the accuracy levels given for 15-min solutions by the NGS. We determined that there is the effect of changing observing session duration on the obtained results, and we report them in this study.

Pre-Clinical Evaluation of a Real-Time PCR Assay on a Portable Instrument as a Possible Field Diagnostic Tool: Experiences from the Testing of Clinical Samples for African and Classical Swine Fever Viruses.

PubMed

Liu, L; Luo, Y; Accensi, F; Ganges, L; Rodríguez, F; Shan, H; Ståhl, K; Qiu, H-J; Belák, S

2017-10-01

African swine fever (ASF) and classical swine fever (CSF) are two highly infectious transboundary animal diseases (TADs) that are serious threats to the pig industry worldwide, including in China, the world's largest pork producer. In this study, a duplex real-time PCR assay was developed for the rapid detection and differentiation of African swine fever virus (ASFV) and classical swine fever virus (CSFV). The assay was performed on a portable, battery-powered PCR thermocycler with a low sample throughput (termed as 'T-COR4 assay'). The feasibility and reliability of the T-COR4 assay as a possible field method was investigated by testing clinical samples collected in China. When evaluated with reference materials or samples from experimental infections, the assay performed in a reliable manner, producing results comparable to those obtained from stationary PCR platforms. Of 59 clinical samples, 41 had results identical to a two-step CSFV real-time PCR assay. No ASFV was detected in these samples. The T-COR4 assay was technically easy to perform and produced results within 3 h, including sample preparation. In combination with a simple sample preparation method, the T-COR4 assay provides a new tool for the field diagnosis and differentiation of ASF and CSF, which could be of particular value in remote areas. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Eddy Covariance Method for CO2 Emission Measurements: CCS Applications, Principles, Instrumentation and Software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, George; Madsen, Rod; Feese, Kristin

2013-04-01

The Eddy Covariance method is a micrometeorological technique for direct high-speed measurements of the transport of gases, heat, and momentum between the earth's surface and the atmosphere. Gas fluxes, emission and exchange rates are carefully characterized from single-point in-situ measurements using permanent or mobile towers, or moving platforms such as automobiles, helicopters, airplanes, etc. Since the early 1990s, this technique has been widely used by micrometeorologists across the globe for quantifying CO2 emission rates from various natural, urban and agricultural ecosystems [1,2], including areas of agricultural carbon sequestration. Presently, over 600 eddy covariance stations are in operation in over 120 countries. In the last 3-5 years, advancements in instrumentation and software have reached the point when they can be effectively used outside the area of micrometeorology, and can prove valuable for geological carbon capture and sequestration, landfill emission measurements, high-precision agriculture and other non-micrometeorological industrial and regulatory applications. In the field of geological carbon capture and sequestration, the magnitude of CO2 seepage fluxes depends on a variety of factors. Emerging projects utilize eddy covariance measurement to monitor large areas where CO2 may escape from the subsurface, to detect and quantify CO2 leakage, and to assure the efficiency of CO2 geological storage [3,4,5,6,7,8]. Although Eddy Covariance is one of the most direct and defensible ways to measure and calculate turbulent fluxes, the method is mathematically complex, and requires careful setup, execution and data processing tailor-fit to a specific site and a project. With this in mind, step-by-step instructions were created to introduce a novice to the conventional Eddy Covariance technique [9], and to assist in further understanding the method through more advanced references such as graduate-level textbooks, flux networks guidelines, journals and technical papers. A free open-source software package with a user-friendly interface was developed accordingly for computing final fully corrected CO2 emission numbers [10]. The presentation covers highlights of the eddy covariance method, its application to geological carbon sequestration, key requirements, instrumentation and software, and reviews educational resources particularly useful for carbon sequestration research. References: [1] Aubinet, M., T. Vesala, and D. Papale (Eds.), 2012. Eddy Covariance: A Practical Guide to Measurement and Data Analysis. Springer-Verlag, 442 pp. [2] Foken T., 2008. Micrometeorology. Springer-Verlag, 308 pp. [4] Finley, R., 2009. An Assessment of Geological Carbon Sequestration in the Illinois Basin Overview of the Decatur-Illinois Basin Site. MGSC, http://www.istc.illinois.edu/info/govs_awards_docs/2009-GSA-1100-Finley.pdf [5] Liu, G. (Ed.), 2012. Greenhouse Gases: Capturing, Utilization and Reduction. Intech, 338 pp. [6] LI-COR Biosciences, 2011. Surface Monitoring for Geologic Carbon Sequestration Monitoring: Methods, Instrumentation, and Case Studies. LI-COR Biosciences, Pub. 980-11916, 15 pp. [7] Benson, S., 2006. Monitoring carbon dioxide sequestration in deep geological formations for inventory verification and carbon credits, SPE-102833, Presentation [8] Lewicki, J., G. Hilley, M. Fischer, L. Pan, C. Olden-burg, C. Dobeck, and L. Spangler, 2009.Eddy covariance observations of leakage during shallow subsurface CO2 releases. Journal of Geophys Res, 114: D12302 [9] Burba, G., 2013. Eddy Covariance Method for Scientific, Industrial, Agricultural and Regulatory Applications. LI-COR Biosciences, 328 pp. [10] LI-COR Biosciences, 2012. EddyPro 4.0: Help and User's Guide. Lincoln, NE, 208 pp.

The effects of center of rotation errors on cardiac SPECT imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Chuanyong; Shao, Ling; Ye, Jinghan; Durbin, M.

2003-10-01

In SPECT imaging, center of rotation (COR) errors lead to the misalignment of projection data and can potentially degrade the quality of the reconstructed images. In this work, we study the effects of COR errors on cardiac SPECT imaging using simulation, point source, cardiac phantom, and patient studies. For simulation studies, we generate projection data using a uniform MCAT phantom first without modeling any physical effects (NPH), then with the modeling of detector response effect (DR) alone. We then corrupt the projection data with simulated sinusoid and step COR errors. For other studies, we introduce sinusoid COR errors to projection data acquired on SPECT systems. An OSEM algorithm is used for image reconstruction without detector response correction, but with nonuniform attenuation correction when needed. The simulation studies show that, when COR errors increase from 0 to 0.96 cm: 1) sinusoid COR errors in axial direction lead to intensity decrease in the inferoapical region; 2) step COR errors in axial direction lead to intensity decrease in the distal anterior region. The intensity decrease is more severe in images reconstructed from projection data with NPH than with DR; and 3) the effects of COR errors in transaxial direction seem to be insignificant. In other studies, COR errors slightly degrade point source resolution; COR errors of 0.64 cm or above introduce visible but insignificant nonuniformity in the images of uniform cardiac phantom; COR errors up to 0.96 cm in transaxial direction affect the lesion-to-background contrast (LBC) insignificantly in the images of cardiac phantom with defects, and COR errors up to 0.64 cm in axial direction only slightly decrease the LBC. For the patient studies with COR errors up to 0.96 cm, images have the same diagnostic/prognostic values as those without COR errors. This work suggests that COR errors of up to 0.64 cm are not likely to change the clinical applications of cardiac SPECT imaging when using iterative reconstruction algorithm without detector response correction.

Expression analysis and functional characterization of a novel cold-responsive gene CbCOR15a from Capsella bursa-pastoris.

PubMed

Zhou, Mingqi; Wu, Lihua; Liang, Jing; Shen, Chen; Lin, Juan

2012-05-01

The cold-responsive (COR) genes involved in C-repeat binding factor signaling pathway function essentially in cold acclimation of higher plants. A novel COR gene CbCOR15a from shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) was predicted to be a homolog of COR15 in Arabidopsis. The analysis of tissue specific expression pattern as well as characterization of the CbCOR15a promoter revealed that the expression of CbCOR15a was induced by coldness not only in leaves and stem but also in roots. Sequence analysis showed that a 909 bp promoter region of CbCOR15a contained two CRT/DRE elements, two ABRE elements, one auxin-responsive TGA-element and one MeJA-responsive CGTCA-motif. In young seedlings the expression of CbCOR15a could be apparently increased by SA, ABA, MeJA and IAA, and transiently increased by GA(3) accompanied by obvious feedback suppression. According to the altered physiological index values in tobacco under cold treatments, the overexpression of CbCOR15a significantly increased the cold tolerance of transgenic tobacco plants. It can be suggested that CbCOR15a was involved in cold response of Capsella bursa-pastoris associated with SA, ABA, MeJA, IAA and GA(3) regulation and confers enhanced cold acclimation in transgenic plants.

48 CFR 1352.201-72 - Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... notice to the contractor by a unilateral modification to the contract. The COR is located at: Phone Number: E-mail: (b) The responsibilities and limitations of the COR are as follows: (1) The COR is...

48 CFR 1352.201-72 - Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... notice to the contractor by a unilateral modification to the contract. The COR is located at: Phone Number: E-mail: (b) The responsibilities and limitations of the COR are as follows: (1) The COR is...

48 CFR 1352.201-72 - Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... notice to the contractor by a unilateral modification to the contract. The COR is located at: Phone Number: E-mail: (b) The responsibilities and limitations of the COR are as follows: (1) The COR is...

Slot scanning versus antiscatter grid in digital mammography: comparison of low-contrast performance using contrast-detail measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Chao-Jen; Shaw, Chris C.; Geiser, William; Kappadath, Srinivas C.; Liu, Xinming; Wang, TianPeng; Tu, Shu-Ju; Altunbas, Mustafa C.

2004-05-01

Slot scanning imaging techniques allow for effective scatter rejection without attenuating primary x-rays. The use of these techniques should generate better image quality for the same mean glandular dose (MGD) or a similar image quality for a lower MGD as compared to imaging techniques using an anti-scatter grid. In this study, we compared a slot scanning digital mammography system (SenoScan, Fisher Imaging Systems, Denver, CO) to a full-field digital mammography (FFDM) system used in conjunction with a 5:1 anti-scatter grid (SenoGraphe 2000D, General Electric Medical Systems, Milwaukee, WI). Images of a contrast-detail phantom (University Hospital Nijmegen, The Netherlands) were reviewed to measure the contrast-detail curves for both systems. These curves were measured at 100%, 71%, 49% and 33% of the reference mean glandular dose (MGD), as determined by photo-timing, for the Fisher system and 100% for the GE system. Soft-copy reading was performed on review workstations provided by the manufacturers. The correct observation ratios (CORs) were also computed and used to compare the performance of the two systems. The results showed that, based on the contrast-detail curves, the performance of the Fisher images, acquired at 100% and 71% of the reference MGD, was comparable to the GE images at 100% of the reference MGD. The CORs for Fisher images were 0.463 and 0.444 at 100% and 71% of the reference MGD, respectively, compared to 0.453 for the GE images at 100% of the reference MGD.

Observed TEC Anomalies by GNSS Sites Preceding the Aegean Sea Earthquake of 2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulukavak, Mustafa; Yal&ccedul; ınkaya, Mualla

2016-11-01

In recent years, Total Electron Content (TEC) data, obtained from Global Navigation Satellites Systems (GNSS) receivers, has been widely used to detect seismo-ionospheric anomalies. In this study, Global Positioning System - Total Electron Content (GPS-TEC) data were used to investigate ionospheric abnormal behaviors prior to the 2014 Aegean Sea earthquake (40.305°N 25.453°E, 24 May 2014, 09:25:03 UT, Mw:6.9). The data obtained from three Continuously Operating Reference Stations in Turkey (CORS-TR) and two International GNSS Service (IGS) sites near the epicenter of the earthquake is used to detect ionospheric anomalies before the earthquake. Solar activity index (F10.7) and geomagnetic activity index (Dst), which are both related to space weather conditions, were used to analyze these pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies. An examination of these indices indicated high solar activity between May 8 and 15, 2014. The first significant increase (positive anomalies) in Vertical Total Electron Content (VTEC) was detected on May 14, 2014 or 10 days before the earthquake. This positive anomaly can be attributed to the high solar activity. The indices do not imply high solar or geomagnetic activity after May 15, 2014. Abnormal ionospheric TEC changes (negative anomaly) were observed at all stations one day before the earthquake. These changes were lower than the lower bound by approximately 10-20 TEC unit (TECU), and may be considered as the ionospheric precursor of the 2014 Aegean Sea earthquake

Codeinone reductase isoforms with differential stability, efficiency and product selectivity in opium poppy.

PubMed

Dastmalchi, Mehran; Chang, Limei; Torres, Miguel A; Ng, Kenneth K S; Facchini, Peter J

2018-05-19

Codeinone reductase (COR) catalyzes the reversible NADPH-dependent reduction of codeinone to codeine as the penultimate step of morphine biosynthesis in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). COR also irreversibly reduces neopinone, which forms by spontaneous isomerization in aqueous solution from codeinone, to neopine. In a parallel pathway involving 3-O-desmethylated analogs, COR converts morphinone to morphine, and neomorphinone to neomorphine. Similar to neopine, neomorphine formation by COR is irreversible. Neopine is a minor substrate for codeine O-demethylase (CODM) yielding morphine. In the plant, neopine levels are low and neomorphine has not been detected. Silencing of CODM leads to accumulation of upstream metabolites, such as codeine and thebaine, but does not result in a shift towards higher relative concentrations of neopine, suggesting a plant mechanism for limiting neopine production. In yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) engineered to produce opiate alkaloids, the catalytic properties of COR lead to accumulation of neopine and neomorphine as major products. An isoform (COR-B) was isolated from opium poppy chemotype Bea's Choice that showed higher catalytic activity compared with previously characterized CORs, and it yielded mostly neopine in vitro and in engineered yeast. Five catalytically distinct COR isoforms (COR1.1-1.4 and COR-B) were used to determine sequence-function relationships that influence product selectivity. Biochemical characterization and site-directed mutagenesis of native COR isoforms identified four residues (V25, K41, F129 and W279) that affected protein stability, reaction velocity, and product selectivity and output. Improving COR performance coupled with an ability to guide pathway flux is necessary to facilitate production of opiate alkaloids in engineered microorganisms. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

DNA Sequence Analysis of a Complementary DNA for Cold-Regulated Arabidopsis Gene cor15 and Characterization of the COR 15 Polypeptide 1

PubMed Central

Lin, Chentao; Thomashow, Michael F.

1992-01-01

Previous studies have indicated that changes in gene expression occur in Arabidopsis thaliana L. (Heyn) during cold acclimation and that certain of the cor (cold-regulated) genes encode polypeptides that share the unusual property of remaining soluble upon boiling in aqueous solution. Here, we identify a cDNA clone for a cold-regulated gene encoding one of the “boiling-stable” polypeptides, COR15. DNA sequence analysis indicated that the gene, designated cor15, encodes a 14.7-kilodalton hydrophilic polypeptide having an N-terminal amino acid sequence that closely resembles transit peptides that target proteins to the stromal compartment of chloroplasts. Immunological studies indicated that COR15 is processed in vivo and that the mature polypeptide, COR 15m, is present in the soluble fraction of chloroplasts. Possible functions of COR 15m are discussed. ImagesFigure 1Figure 4Figure 5Figure 6Figure 7 PMID:16668917

Technical solution for data collection, data safety and data privacy legislation: experiences from the SWEET study.

PubMed

Forsander, Gun; Pellinat, Martin; Volk, Michael; Muller, Markus; Pinelli, Leonardo; Magnen, Agnes; Danne, Thomas; Aschemeier, Bärbel; de Beaufort, Carine

2012-09-01

One of the most important tasks of the SWEET study is benchmarking the data collected. Information on the occurrence of the disease of diabetes, the treatment, and their outcomes in children from the different member states of European Union (EU) is crucial. How the collection of data is realized is essential, concerning both the technical issues and the results. The creation of SWEET Centers of Reference (CoR), all over Europe will be facilitated by the access to safe data collection, where legal aspects and privacy are ascertained. To describe the rationale for- and the technical procedure in the data collection implementation, in the SWEET study. Selected data on all patients treated at SWEET CoR are collected. The SWEET project data collection and management system, consists of modular components for data collection, online data interchange, and a database for statistical analysis. The SWEET study and the organization of CoR aims for the goal of offering an updated, secure, and continuous evaluation of diabetes treatment regimens for all children with diabetes in Europe. To support this goal, an appropriate and secure data management system as described in this paper has been created. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

A novel cold-regulated gene from Camellia sinensis, CsCOR1, enhances salt- and dehydration-tolerance in tobacco

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

Li, Xian-Wen, E-mail: xianwenli01@sina.com; College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang 464000; Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology of the Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070

In present research, the full-length cDNA and the genomic sequence of a novel cold-regulated gene, CsCOR1, were isolated from Camellia sinensis L. The deduced protein CsCOR1 contains a hydrophobic N-terminus as a signal peptide and a hydrophilic C-terminal domain that is rich in glycine, arginine and proline. Two internal repetitive tridecapeptide fragments (HSVTAGRGGYNRG) exist in the middle of the C-terminal domain and the two nucleotide sequences encoding them are identical. CsCOR1 was localized in the cell walls of transgenic-tobaccos via CsCOR1::GFP fusion approach. The expression of CsCOR1 in tea leaves was enhanced dramatically by both cold- and dehydration-stress. And overexpressionmore » of CsCOR1 in transgenic-tobaccos improved obviously the tolerance to salinity and dehydration.« less

Sensitivity Monitoring of the SECCHI COR1 Telescopes on STEREO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, William T.

2018-03-01

Measurements of bright stars passing through the fields of view of the inner coronagraphs (COR1) on board the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) are used to monitor changes in the radiometric calibration over the course of the mission. Annual decline rates are found to be 0.648 ± 0.066%/year for COR1-A on STEREO Ahead and 0.258 ± 0.060%/year for COR1-B on STEREO Behind. These rates are consistent with decline rates found for other space-based coronagraphs in similar radiation environments. The theorized cause for the decline in sensitivity is darkening of the lenses and other optical elements due to exposure to high-energy solar particles and photons, although other causes are also possible. The total decline in the COR-B sensitivity when contact with Behind was lost on 1 October 2014 was 1.7%, while COR1-A was down by 4.4%. As of 1 November 2017, the COR1-A decline is estimated to be 6.4%. The SECCHI calibration routines will be updated to take these COR1 decline rates into account.

The Phytotoxin Coronatine Induces Abscission-Related Gene Expression and Boll Ripening during Defoliation of Cotton

PubMed Central

Tian, Xiaoli; Duan, Liusheng; Zhang, Mingcai; Tan, Weiming; Xu, Dongyong; Li, Zhaohu

2014-01-01

Defoliants can increase machine harvest efficiency of cotton (Gossypium hirusutum L.), prevent lodging and reduce the time from defoliation to harvest. Coronatine (COR) is a chlorosis-inducing non-host-specific phytotoxin that induces leaf and/or fruit abscission in some crops. The present study investigates how COR might induce cotton leaf abscission by modulating genes involved in cell wall hydrolases and ACC (ethylene precursor) in various cotton tissues. The effects of COR on cotton boll ripening, seedcotton yield, and seed development were also studied. After 14 d of treatment with COR, cells within the leaf abscission zone (AZ) showed marked differentiation. Elevated transcripts of GhCEL1, GhPG and GhACS were observed in the AZs treated with COR and Thidiazuron (TDZ). The relative expression of GhCEL1 and GhACS in TDZ treated plants was approximately twice that in plants treated with COR for 12 h. However, only GhACS expression increased in leaf blade and petiole. There was a continuous increase in the activity of hydrolytic enzymes such as cellulase (CEL) and polygalacturonase (PG), and ACC accumulation in AZs following COR and TDZ treatments, but there was greater increase in ACC activity of COR treated boll crust, indicating that COR had greater ripening effect than TDZ. Coronatine significantly enhanced boll opening without affecting boll weight, lint percentage and seed quality. Therefore, COR can be a potential cotton defoliant with different physiological mechanism of action from the currently used TDZ. PMID:24845465

Diagnostic Performance of a Smartphone-Based Photoplethysmographic Application for Atrial Fibrillation Screening in a Primary Care Setting.

PubMed

Chan, Pak-Hei; Wong, Chun-Ka; Poh, Yukkee C; Pun, Louise; Leung, Wangie Wan-Chiu; Wong, Yu-Fai; Wong, Michelle Man-Ying; Poh, Ming-Zher; Chu, Daniel Wai-Sing; Siu, Chung-Wah

2016-07-21

Diagnosing atrial fibrillation (AF) before ischemic stroke occurs is a priority for stroke prevention in AF. Smartphone camera-based photoplethysmographic (PPG) pulse waveform measurement discriminates between different heart rhythms, but its ability to diagnose AF in real-world situations has not been adequately investigated. We sought to assess the diagnostic performance of a standalone smartphone PPG application, Cardiio Rhythm, for AF screening in primary care setting. Patients with hypertension, with diabetes mellitus, and/or aged ≥65 years were recruited. A single-lead ECG was recorded by using the AliveCor heart monitor with tracings reviewed subsequently by 2 cardiologists to provide the reference standard. PPG measurements were performed by using the Cardiio Rhythm smartphone application. AF was diagnosed in 28 (2.76%) of 1013 participants. The diagnostic sensitivity of the Cardiio Rhythm for AF detection was 92.9% (95% CI] 77-99%) and was higher than that of the AliveCor automated algorithm (71.4% [95% CI 51-87%]). The specificities of Cardiio Rhythm and the AliveCor automated algorithm were comparable (97.7% [95% CI: 97-99%] versus 99.4% [95% CI 99-100%]). The positive predictive value of the Cardiio Rhythm was lower than that of the AliveCor automated algorithm (53.1% [95% CI 38-67%] versus 76.9% [95% CI 56-91%]); both had a very high negative predictive value (99.8% [95% CI 99-100%] versus 99.2% [95% CI 98-100%]). The Cardiio Rhythm smartphone PPG application provides an accurate and reliable means to detect AF in patients at risk of developing AF and has the potential to enable population-based screening for AF. © 2016 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley Blackwell.

Lack of K-Dependent Oxidative Stress in Cotton Roots Following Coronatine-Induced ROS Accumulation

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zhiyong; Zhang, Xin; Hu, Zebing; Wang, Sufang; Zhang, Jinbao; Wang, Xiaojing; Wang, Qinglian; Zhang, Baohong

2015-01-01

Coronatine [COR] is a novel type of plant growth regulator with similarities in structure and property to jasmonate. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between increased root vitality induced by 10nM COR and reactive oxygen species scavenging under potassium (K)-replete (2.5mM) and K-deficient (0.05mM) conditions in hydroponic cultured cotton seedlings. K-replete and K-deficient conditions increased root vitality by 2.7- and 3.5-fold, respectively. COR treatment significantly decreased lipid peroxidation in cotton seedlings determined by reduction in MDA levels. These results suggest that COR improves the functioning of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems. Under K-replete and K-deficient conditions, COR significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD (only for K-repletion), CAT, GPX, and APX comparing; COR also significantly increased DPPH-radical scavenging activity. However, COR led to 1.6- and 1.7-fold increases in superoxide anion (O2 •-) concentrations, and 5.7- and 2.1-fold increases in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels, respectively. Additionally, COR intensified the DAB staining of H2O2 and the NBT staining of O2 •-. Therefore, our results reveal that COR-induced ROS accumulation stimulates the activities of most antioxidant enzymes but does not induce oxidative stress in cotton roots. PMID:25955838

NASA Astrophysics Prioritizes Technology Development Funding for Strategic Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thronson, Harley A.; Pham, Bruce; Ganel, Opher

2017-01-01

The Cosmic Origins (COR) and Physics of the Cosmos (PCOS) Program Offices (POs) reside at NASA GSFC and implement priorities for the NASA HQ Astrophysics Division (APD). One major aspect of the POs’ activities is managing our Strategic Astrophysics Technology (SAT) program to mature technologies for future strategic missions. The Programs follow APD guidance on which missions are strategic, currently informed by the NRC’s 2010 Decadal Survey report, as well as APD’s Implementation Plan and the Astrophysics Roadmap.In preparation for the upcoming 2020 Decadal Survey, the APD has established Science and Technology Definition Teams (STDTs) to study four large-mission concepts: the Origins Space Telescope, Habitable Exoplanet Imaging Mission, Large UV/Optical/IR Surveyor, and X-ray Surveyor. The STDTs will develop the science case and design reference mission, assess technology development needs, and estimate the cost of their concept. A fifth team, the L3 Study Team (L3ST), was charged to study potential US contributions to ESA’s planned L3 gravitational-wave observatory.The POs use a rigorous and transparent process to solicit technology gaps from the scientific and technical communities, and prioritize those entries based on strategic alignment, expected impact, cross-cutting applicability, and urgency. Starting in 2016, the technology-gap assessments of the four STDTs and the L3ST are included in our process. Until a study team submits its final report, community-proposed changes to gaps submitted or adopted by a study team are forwarded to that study team for consideration.We discuss our technology development process, with strategic prioritization informing calls for SAT proposals and informing investment decisions. We also present results of this year’s technology gap prioritization and showcase our current portfolio of technology development projects. To date, 77 COR and 80 PCOS SAT proposals have been received, of which 18 COR and 22 PCOS projects were funded (PCOS awards starting in 2017 have yet to be announced). For more information, see the respective Program Annual Technology Reports under the technology tabs of the COR website at cor.gsfc.nasa.gov and the PCOS website at pcos.gsfc.nasa.gov.

A novel cold-regulated gene, COR25, of Brassica napus is involved in plant response and tolerance to cold stress.

PubMed

Chen, Liang; Zhong, Hui; Ren, Feng; Guo, Qian-Qian; Hu, Xu-Peng; Li, Xue-Bao

2011-04-01

Cold stress, which causes dehydration damage to the plant cell, is one of the most common abiotic stresses that adversely affect plant growth and crop productivity. To improve its cold-tolerance, plants often enhance expression of some cold-related genes. In this study, a cold-regulated gene encoding 25 KDa of protein was isolated from Brassica napus cDNA library using a macroarray analysis, and is consequently designated as BnCOR25. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that BnCOR25 was expressed at high levels in hypocotyls, cotyledons, stems, and flowers, but its mRNA was found at low levels in roots and leaves. Northern blot analysis revealed that BnCOR25 transcripts were significantly induced by cold and osmotic stress treatment. The data also showed that BnCOR25 gene expression is mediated by ABA-dependent pathway. Overexpression of BnCOR25 in yeast (Schizosaccharomyces pombe) significantly enhanced the cell survival probability under cold stress, and overexpression of BnCOR25 in Arabidopsis enhances plant tolerance to cold stress. These results suggested that the BnCOR25 gene may play an important role in conferring freezing/cold tolerance in plants.

Methods of practice and guidelines for using survey-grade global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) to establish vertical datum in the United States Geological Survey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rydlund, Jr., Paul H.; Densmore, Brenda K.

2012-01-01

Geodetic surveys have evolved through the years to the use of survey-grade (centimeter level) global positioning to perpetuate and post-process vertical datum. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) technology to monitor natural hazards, ensure geospatial control for climate and land use change, and gather data necessary for investigative studies related to water, the environment, energy, and ecosystems. Vertical datum is fundamental to a variety of these integrated earth sciences. Essentially GNSS surveys provide a three-dimensional position x, y, and z as a function of the North American Datum of 1983 ellipsoid and the most current hybrid geoid model. A GNSS survey may be approached with post-processed positioning for static observations related to a single point or network, or involve real-time corrections to provide positioning "on-the-fly." Field equipment required to facilitate GNSS surveys range from a single receiver, with a power source for static positioning, to an additional receiver or network communicated by radio or cellular for real-time positioning. A real-time approach in its most common form may be described as a roving receiver augmented by a single-base station receiver, known as a single-base real-time (RT) survey. More efficient real-time methods involving a Real-Time Network (RTN) permit the use of only one roving receiver that is augmented to a network of fixed receivers commonly known as Continually Operating Reference Stations (CORS). A post-processed approach in its most common form involves static data collection at a single point. Data are most commonly post-processed through a universally accepted utility maintained by the National Geodetic Survey (NGS), known as the Online Position User Service (OPUS). More complex post-processed methods involve static observations among a network of additional receivers collecting static data at known benchmarks. Both classifications provide users flexibility regarding efficiency and quality of data collection. Quality assurance of survey-grade global positioning is often overlooked or not understood and perceived uncertainties can be misleading. GNSS users can benefit from a blueprint of data collection standards used to ensure consistency among USGS mission areas. A classification of GNSS survey qualities provide the user with the ability to choose from the highest quality survey used to establish objective points with low uncertainties, identified as a Level I, to a GNSS survey for general topographic control without quality assurance, identified as a Level IV. A Level I survey is strictly limited to post-processed methods, whereas Level II, Level III, and Level IV surveys integrate variations of a RT approach. Among these classifications, techniques involving blunder checks and redundancy are important, and planning that involves the assessment of the overall satellite configuration, as well as terrestrial and space weather, are necessary to ensure an efficient and quality campaign. Although quality indicators and uncertainties are identified in post-processed methods using CORS, the accuracy of a GNSS survey is most effectively expressed as a comparison to a local benchmark that has a high degree of confidence. Real-time and post-processed methods should incorporate these "trusted" benchmarks as a check during any campaign. Global positioning surveys are expected to change rapidly in the future. The expansion of continuously operating reference stations, combined with newly available satellite signals, and enhancements to the conterminous geoid, are all sufficient indicators for substantial growth in real-time positioning and quality thereof.

Validity of the Child Observation Record: An Investigation of the Relationship between Cor Dimensions and Social-Emotional and Cognitive Outcomes for Head Start Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sekino, Yumiko; Fantuzzo, John

2005-01-01

The study examined the validity of the Child Observation Record (COR). Participants were 242 children, a stratified, random sample of a large, urban Head Start program. Teachers trained to collect COR data provided assessments on the Cognitive, Social Engagement, and Coordinated Movement dimensions of the COR. Outcome data included cognitive and…

CorSig: a general framework for estimating statistical significance of correlation and its application to gene co-expression analysis.

PubMed

Wang, Hong-Qiang; Tsai, Chung-Jui

2013-01-01

With the rapid increase of omics data, correlation analysis has become an indispensable tool for inferring meaningful associations from a large number of observations. Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) and its variants are widely used for such purposes. However, it remains challenging to test whether an observed association is reliable both statistically and biologically. We present here a new method, CorSig, for statistical inference of correlation significance. CorSig is based on a biology-informed null hypothesis, i.e., testing whether the true PCC (ρ) between two variables is statistically larger than a user-specified PCC cutoff (τ), as opposed to the simple null hypothesis of ρ = 0 in existing methods, i.e., testing whether an association can be declared without a threshold. CorSig incorporates Fisher's Z transformation of the observed PCC (r), which facilitates use of standard techniques for p-value computation and multiple testing corrections. We compared CorSig against two methods: one uses a minimum PCC cutoff while the other (Zhu's procedure) controls correlation strength and statistical significance in two discrete steps. CorSig consistently outperformed these methods in various simulation data scenarios by balancing between false positives and false negatives. When tested on real-world Populus microarray data, CorSig effectively identified co-expressed genes in the flavonoid pathway, and discriminated between closely related gene family members for their differential association with flavonoid and lignin pathways. The p-values obtained by CorSig can be used as a stand-alone parameter for stratification of co-expressed genes according to their correlation strength in lieu of an arbitrary cutoff. CorSig requires one single tunable parameter, and can be readily extended to other correlation measures. Thus, CorSig should be useful for a wide range of applications, particularly for network analysis of high-dimensional genomic data. A web server for CorSig is provided at http://202.127.200.1:8080/probeWeb. R code for CorSig is freely available for non-commercial use at http://aspendb.uga.edu/downloads.

Cor a 14 is the superior serological marker for hazelnut allergy in children, independent of concomitant peanut allergy.

PubMed

Eller, E; Mortz, C G; Bindslev-Jensen, C

2016-04-01

Hazelnut is the most frequent cause of tree nut allergy, but up to half of all children with hazelnut allergy additionally suffer from peanut allergy. Our aim was to identify diagnostic values of the most promising serological markers (Cor a 9 and Cor a 14) and to address the influence of concomitant peanut allergy and PR10 sensitization. We included 155 children suspected of hazelnut allergy and challenged according to the guidelines. Concomitant allergy to peanuts was verified or ruled out by challenge. Skin prick test, s-IgE and CRD to hazelnut, peanut, PR10 and LPT protein families were measured using ImmunoCAP. Sixty-five children had a positive hazelnut challenge, and 60% of these also had a concomitant peanut allergy. Children allergic to hazelnut were sensitized to Cor a 9 and Cor a 14; peanut-allergic children were sensitized to Ara h 2. Sensitization to PR10 protein components was seen in 45% of all included children, irrelevant to allergy to peanut or hazelnut. A cut-off >0.72 kU/L of IgE towards Cor a 14 diagnosed 87% correctly, making Cor a 14 the superior serology marker. However, nine hazelnut-allergic children were primarily sensitized to Cor a 9. Concomitant peanut allergy is common in hazelnut-allergic children, but decision points as well as diagnostic values for Cor a 14 are not affected. We found three independent and well-characterized serotypes; hazelnut-allergic children were sensitized to Cor a 14, peanut-allergic children were sensitized to Ara h 2, and independently of this were children sensitized to birch pollen (Bet v 1). © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

CorA, the magnesium/nickel/cobalt transporter, affects virulence and extracellular enzyme production in the soft rot pathogen Pectobacterium carotovorum.

PubMed

Kersey, Caleb M; Agyemang, Paul A; Dumenyo, C Korsi

2012-01-01

Pectobacterium carotovorum (formerly Erwinia carotovora ssp. carotovora) is a phytopathogenic bacterium that causes soft rot disease, characterized by water-soaked soft decay, resulting from the action of cell wall-degrading exoenzymes secreted by the pathogen. Virulence in soft rot bacteria is regulated by environmental factors, host and bacterial chemical signals, and a network of global and gene-specific bacterial regulators. We isolated a mini-Tn5 mutant of P. carotovorum that is reduced in the production of extracellular pectate lyase, protease, polygalacturonase and cellulase. The mutant is also decreased in virulence as it macerates less host tissues than its parent and is severely impaired in multiplication in planta. The inactivated gene responsible for the reduced virulent phenotype was identified as corA. CorA, a magnesium/nickel/cobalt membrane transporter, is the primary magnesium transporter for many bacteria. Compared with the parent, the CorA(-) mutant is cobalt resistant. The mutant phenotype was confirmed in parental strain P. carotovorum by marker exchange inactivation of corA. A functional corA(+) DNA from P. carotovorum restored exoenzyme production and pathogenicity to the mutants. The P. carotovorum corA(+) clone also restored motility and cobalt sensitivity to a CorA(-) mutant of Salmonella enterica. These data indicate that CorA is required for exoenzyme production and virulence in P. carotovorum. © 2011 THE AUTHORS. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY © 2011 BSPP AND BLACKWELL PUBLISHING LTD.

Compensatory increase of the cervico-ocular reflex with age in healthy humans

PubMed Central

Kelders, W P A; Kleinrensink, G J; van der Geest, J N; Feenstra, L; de Zeeuw, C I; Frens, M A

2003-01-01

The cervico-ocular reflex (COR) is an ocular stabilization reflex that is elicited by rotation of the neck. It works in conjunction with the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and the optokinetic reflex (OKR) in order to prevent visual slip over the retina due to self-motion. The gains of the VOR and OKR are known to decrease with age. We have investigated whether the COR, a reflexive eye movement elicited by rotation of the neck, shows a compensatory increase and whether a synergy exists between the COR and the other ocular stabilization reflexes. In the present study 35 healthy subjects of varying age (20–86 years) were rotated in the dark in a trunk-to-head manner (the head fixed in spaced with the body passively rotated under it) at peak velocities between 2.1 and 12.6 deg s−1 as a COR stimulus. Another 15 were subjected to COR, VOR and OKR stimuli at frequencies between 0.04 and 0.1 Hz. Three subjects participated in both tests. The position of the eyes was recorded with an infrared recording technique. We found that the COR-gain increases with increasing age and that there is a significant covariation between the gains of the VOR and COR, meaning that when VOR increases, COR decreases and vice versa. A nearly constant phase lag between the COR and the VOR of about 25 deg existed at all stimulus frequencies. PMID:12949226

Identifying Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Requirements for Contracting Officer Representatives in Deployed Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-19

field, able to operate independently (self-tasked) and are able to multitask . 4 CORs comprehend the processes for coordinating, inspecting, and... multitask . 9.) They understand the duties and responsibilities set forth in the COR delegation letter and ensure the COR file is documented...to multitask . CORs comprehend the processes for coordinating, inspecting, and accepting deliveries (and/or services) and the procedures to pay

U.S. Army Contracting CommandRock Island Needs to Improve Contracting Officers Representative Training and Appointment for Contingency Contracts

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-10

PCO Did Not Properly Appoint and Train CORs ____________________________________________ 12 PCO Did Not Delegate COR Appointment Authority and...the ACC–RI procuring contracting officer ( PCO ) did not appoint CORs in accordance with DoD requirements. Specifically, the PCO did not... PCO did not include COR appointment authority in the ACO delegation letter as she intended. As a result, ACC–RI officials did not ensure qualified

Exploring the structure and function of Thermotoga maritima CorA reveals the mechanism of gating and ion selectivity in Co2+/Mg2+ transport

PubMed Central

Nordin, Nurhuda; Guskov, Albert; Phua, Terri; Sahaf, Newsha; Xia, Yu; Lu, Siyan; Eshaghi, Hojjat; Eshaghi, Said

2013-01-01

The CorA family of divalent cation transporters utilizes Mg2+ and Co2+ as primary substrates. The molecular mechanism of its function, including ion selectivity and gating, has not been fully characterized. Recently we reported a new structure of a CorA homologue from Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, which provided novel structural details that offered the conception of a unique gating mechanism involving conversion of an open hydrophilic gate into a closed hydrophobic one. In the present study we report functional evidence for this novel gating mechanism in the Thermotoga maritima CorA together with an improved crystal structure of this CorA to 2.7 Å (1 Å=0.1 nm) resolution. The latter reveals the organization of the selectivity filter to be similar to that of M. jannaschii CorA and also the previously unknown organization of the second signature motif of the CorA family. The proposed gating is achieved by a helical rotation upon the binding of a metal ion substrate to the regulatory binding sites. Additionally, our data suggest that the preference of this CorA for Co2+ over Mg2+ is controlled by the presence of threonine side chains in the channel. Finally, the roles of the intracellular metal-binding sites have been assigned to increased thermostability and regulation of the gating. These mechanisms most likely apply to the entire CorA family as they are regulated by the highly conserved amino acids. PMID:23425532

OpenCOR: a modular and interoperable approach to computational biology

PubMed Central

Garny, Alan; Hunter, Peter J.

2015-01-01

Computational biologists have been developing standards and formats for nearly two decades, with the aim of easing the description and exchange of experimental data, mathematical models, simulation experiments, etc. One of those efforts is CellML (cellml.org), an XML-based markup language for the encoding of mathematical models. Early CellML-based environments include COR and OpenCell. However, both of those tools have limitations and were eventually replaced with OpenCOR (opencor.ws). OpenCOR is an open source modeling environment that is supported on Windows, Linux and OS X. It relies on a modular approach, which means that all of its features come in the form of plugins. Those plugins can be used to organize, edit, simulate and analyze models encoded in the CellML format. We start with an introduction to CellML and two of its early adopters, which limitations eventually led to the development of OpenCOR. We then go onto describing the general philosophy behind OpenCOR, as well as describing its openness and its development process. Next, we illustrate various aspects of OpenCOR, such as its user interface and some of the plugins that come bundled with it (e.g., its editing and simulation plugins). Finally, we discuss some of the advantages and limitations of OpenCOR before drawing some concluding remarks. PMID:25705192

Cor a 14, the allergenic 2S albumin from hazelnut, is highly thermostable and resistant to gastrointestinal digestion

PubMed Central

Pfeifer, Sabine; Bublin, Merima; Dubiela, Pawel; Hummel, Karin; Wortmann, Judith; Hofer, Gerhard; Keller, Walter; Radauer, Christian

2015-01-01

Scope Allergens from nuts frequently induce severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The aim of this study was to elucidate the physicochemical characteristics of natural Cor a 14, the 2S albumin from hazelnut. Methods and results Cor a 14 was purified from raw hazelnuts using a combination of precipitation and chromatographic techniques. The protein was analyzed using gel electrophoresis, MS, and far‐UV circular dichroism (CD) analyses. The immunoglobulin E (IgE) binding of native, heat‐treated, and in vitro digested Cor a 14 was studied. We identified two different Cor a 14 isoforms and showed microclipping at the C‐terminus. CD spectra at room temperature showed the typical characteristics of 2S albumins, and temperatures of more than 80°C were required to start unfolding of Cor a 14 demonstrating its high stability to heat treatment. In vitro digestion experiments revealed that Cor a 14 is resistant to proteolytic degradation. Native and heat‐treated protein was recognized by sera from hazelnut allergic patients. However, denaturation of the allergen led to significantly reduced IgE binding. Conclusion We identified two different isoforms of Cor a 14 displaying high stability under heating and gastric and duodenal conditions. Data from IgE‐binding experiments revealed the existence of both, linear and conformational epitopes. PMID:26178695

Deformation Along the Rio Grande Rift: Investigating the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Strain Using GPS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murray, K. D.; Murray, M. H.; Sheehan, A. F.; Nerem, R. S.

2014-12-01

Low velocity (<1 mm/yr) extensional environments, such as the Rio Grande rift (RGR) in Colorado and New Mexico, are complex but can provide insights into continental dynamics, tectonic processes, and seismic hazards. We use eight years of measurements from 26 continuous GPS stations across the RGR installed as part of a collaborative EarthScope experiment. We combine this data with regional Plate Boundary Observatory (PBO) and National Geodetic Survey (NGS) CORS GPS stations, and survey-mode data collected on NGS benchmarks to investigate how deformation is distributed across a broad area from the Great Plains to the Colorado Plateau. The data from over 150 stations are processed using GAMIT/GLOBK, and time series, velocities, strain rates are estimated with respect to realizations of a stable North America reference frame, such as NA12. This study extends our previous analysis, based on 4 years of data, which found an approximately uniform 1.2 nanostrain/yr east-west extensional strain rate across the entire region that was not concentrated on the narrow surface expression of the rift. We expand on this previous work by using a denser network of GPS stations and analyzing longer time series, which reduce horizontal velocity uncertainties to approximately 0.15 mm/yr. We also improve the accuracy of the estimated velocity uncertainties by robustly characterizing time-correlated noise. The noise models indicate that both power-law and flicker noise are present in the time series along with white noise. On average, power law noise constitutes about 90% of the total noise in the vertical component and 60% in the horizontal components for the RGR sites. We use the time series, and velocity and strain-rate estimates to constrain spatial and temporal variations in the deformation field in order to locate possible regions of strain localization and detect transient deformation signals, and to address some of the kinematic and dynamic issues raised by the observation that a broad, low seismic velocity zone underlies the narrow geologic surface expression of the RGR defined by normal fault bounded basins.

Ionospheric modelling to boost the PPP-RTK positioning and navigation in Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arsov, Kirco; Terkildsen, Michael; Olivares, German

2017-04-01

This paper deals with implementation of 3-D ionospheric model to support the GNSS positioning and navigation activities in Australia. We will introduce two strategies for Slant Total Electron Content (STEC) estimation from GNSS CORS sites in Australia. In the first scenario, the STEC is estimated in the PPP-RTK network processing. The ionosphere is estimated together with other GNSS network parameters, such as Satellite Clocks, Satellite Phase Biases, etc. Another approach is where STEC is estimated on a station by station basis by taking advantage of already known station position and different satellite ambiguities relations. Accuracy studies and considerations will be presented and discussed. Furthermore, based on this STEC, 3-D ionosphere modeling will be performed. We will present the simple interpolation, 3-D Tomography and bi-cubic splines as modeling techniques. In order to assess these models, a (user) PPP-RTK test bed is established and a sensitivity matrix will be introduced and analyzed based on time to first fix (TTFF) of ambiguities, positioning accuracy, PPP-RTK solution convergence time etc. Different spatial configurations and constellations will be presented and assessed.

Structural and functional characterization of the hazelnut allergen Cor a 8

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

Offermann, Lesa R.; Bublin, Merima; Perdue, Makenzie L.

Nonspecific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are basic proteins, stabilized by four disulfide bonds, and are expressed throughout the plant kingdom. These proteins are also known as important allergens in fruits and tree nuts. In this study, the nsLTP from hazelnuts, Cor a 8, was purified and its crystal structure determined. The protein is stable at low pH and refolds after thermal denaturation. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to provide an insight into conformational changes of Cor a 8 upon ligand binding. When known epitope areas from Pru p 3 were compared to those of Cor a 8, differences were obvious,more » which may contribute to limited cross-reactivity between peach and hazelnut allergens. The differences in epitope regions may contribute to limited cross-reactivity between Cor a 8 and nsLTPs from other plant sources. The structure of Cor a 8 represents the first resolved structure of a hazelnut allergen.« less

Structural and functional characterization of the hazelnut allergen Cor a 8

DOE PAGES

Offermann, Lesa R.; Bublin, Merima; Perdue, Makenzie L.; ...

2015-09-28

Nonspecific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are basic proteins, stabilized by four disulfide bonds, and are expressed throughout the plant kingdom. These proteins are also known as important allergens in fruits and tree nuts. In this study, the nsLTP from hazelnuts, Cor a 8, was purified and its crystal structure determined. The protein is stable at low pH and refolds after thermal denaturation. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to provide an insight into conformational changes of Cor a 8 upon ligand binding. When known epitope areas from Pru p 3 were compared to those of Cor a 8, differences were obvious,more » which may contribute to limited cross-reactivity between peach and hazelnut allergens. The differences in epitope regions may contribute to limited cross-reactivity between Cor a 8 and nsLTPs from other plant sources. The structure of Cor a 8 represents the first resolved structure of a hazelnut allergen.« less

Establishing a method of short-term rainfall forecasting based on GNSS-derived PWV and its application.

PubMed

Yao, Yibin; Shan, Lulu; Zhao, Qingzhi

2017-09-29

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) can effectively retrieve precipitable water vapor (PWV) with high precision and high-temporal resolution. GNSS-derived PWV can be used to reflect water vapor variation in the process of strong convection weather. By studying the relationship between time-varying PWV and rainfall, it can be found that PWV contents increase sharply before raining. Therefore, a short-term rainfall forecasting method is proposed based on GNSS-derived PWV. Then the method is validated using hourly GNSS-PWV data from Zhejiang Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network of the period 1 September 2014 to 31 August 2015 and its corresponding hourly rainfall information. The results show that the forecasted correct rate can reach about 80%, while the false alarm rate is about 66%. Compared with results of the previous studies, the correct rate is improved by about 7%, and the false alarm rate is comparable. The method is also applied to other three actual rainfall events of different regions, different durations, and different types. The results show that the method has good applicability and high accuracy, which can be used for rainfall forecasting, and in the future study, it can be assimilated with traditional weather forecasting techniques to improve the forecasted accuracy.

Transparent Metal-Salt-Filled Polymeric Radiation Shields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, David; Lennhoff, John; Harris, George

2003-01-01

"COR-RA" (colorless atomic oxygen resistant -- radiation shield) is the name of a transparent polymeric material filled with x-ray-absorbing salts of lead, bismuth, cesium, and thorium. COR-RA is suitable for use in shielding personnel against bremsstrahlung radiation from electron-beam welding and industrial and medical x-ray equipment. In comparison with lead-foil and leaded-glass shields that give equivalent protection against x-rays (see table), COR-RA shields are mechanically more durable. COR-RA absorbs not only x-rays but also neutrons and rays without adverse effects on optical or mechanical performance. The formulation of COR-RA with the most favorable mechanical-durability and optical properties contains 22 weight percent of bismuth to absorb x-rays, plus 45 atomic percent hydrogen for shielding against neutrons.

Role of Hemidivisional Corneal Topographic Astigmatisms (CorTs) in the Regularization and Reduction of Irregular Astigmatism.

PubMed

Alpins, Noel; Ong, James K Y; Stamatelatos, George

2018-03-01

To demonstrate how the concept of hemidivisional corneal topographic astigmatism (hemiCorT) enables the planning of hemidivisional corneal treatments to reduce irregularity and overall astigmatism. Whole-of-cornea corneal topographic astigmatism (CorT) is calculated from topography data derived from a corneal topographer or tomographer. The cornea is conceptually divided into 2 hemidivisions along the flat meridian of the CorT. For each hemidivision, hemiCorTs are calculated. The regularization treatment for each hemidivision is the treatment required to target the whole-of-cornea CorT, which is a symmetrical orthogonal corneal astigmatism. The regularization is then combined with astigmatism reduction treatment, which could be a conventional refractive treatment or a vector-planned treatment. For each hemidivision, the combined astigmatic effect of the regularization treatment and reduction treatment can be determined through double-angle vector summation. The 2 hemidivisional treatments together regularize and reduce corneal astigmatism. A theoretical pair of hemidivisional treatments is derived from an actual example of a cornea displaying idiopathic asymmetric nonorthogonal astigmatism. HemiCorTs allow for the design of hemidivisional corneal treatments of asymmetric nonorthogonal astigmatism. Such treatments should be suitable in the routine treatment of commonly occurring irregular astigmatism, while also allowing the spherical refractive error to be treated concurrently.

Curculigo orchioides protects cisplatin-induced cell damage.

PubMed

Kang, Tong Ho; Hong, Bin Na; Jung, Su-Young; Lee, Jeong-Han; So, Hong-Seob; Park, Raekil; You, Yong-Ouk

2013-01-01

Cisplatin is commonly used as a chemotherapeutic agent against many human cancers. However, it generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and has serious dose-limiting side effects, including ototoxicity. The roots of Curculigo orchioides (C. orchioides) have been used to treat auditory diseases such as tinnitus and hearing loss in Chinese traditional medicine. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of an ethanol extract obtained from C. orchioides rhizome (COR) on cisplatin-induced cell damage in auditory cells (HEI-OC1). COR (2.5-25 μg/ml) inhibited cisplatin-induced HEI-OC1 cell damage in a dose-dependent manner. To investigate the protective mechanism of COR on cisplatin cytotoxicity in HEI-OC1 cells, we measured the effects of COR on ROS generation and lipid peroxidation in cisplatin-treated cells as well as its scavenging activities against superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and DPPH radicals. COR (1-25 μg/ml) had scavenging activities against superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and DPPH radicals, as well as reduced lipid peroxidation. In in vivo experiments, COR was shown to reduce cochlear and peripheral auditory function impairments through cisplatin-induced auditory damage in mice. These results indicate that COR protects from cisplatin-induced auditory damage by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and scavenging activities against free radicals.

A prospective randomized controlled study on the treatment outcome of SpineCor brace versus rigid brace for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with follow-up according to the SRS standardized criteria.

PubMed

Guo, Jing; Lam, Tsz Ping; Wong, Man Sang; Ng, Bobby Kin Wah; Lee, Kwong Man; Liu, King Lok; Hung, Lik Hang; Lau, Ajax Hong Yin; Sin, Sai Wing; Kwok, Wing Kwan; Yu, Fiona Wai Ping; Qiu, Yong; Cheng, Jack Chun Yiu

2014-12-01

SpineCor is a relatively innovative brace for non-operative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, the effectiveness of SpineCor still remains controversial. The objective of the current study was to compare the treatment outcomes of SpineCor brace with that of rigid brace following the standardized Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) criteria on AIS brace study. Females subjects with AIS and aged 10-14 were randomly allocated into two groups undergoing treatment of SpineCor (S Group, n = 20) or rigid brace (R Group, n = 18). During SpineCor treatment, patients who had curve progression of >5° would be required to switch to rigid brace treatment. The effectiveness of the two brace treatments was assessed using the SRS standardized criteria. Before skeletal maturity, 7 (35.0%) patients in the S Group and 1 (5.6%) patient in the R Group had curve progression >5° (P = 0.026). At skeletal maturity, 5 of the 7 (71.4%) patients who failed with SpineCor bracing showed control from further progression by changing to rigid bracing. At the latest follow-up with a mean duration of 45.1 months after skeletally maturity, 29.4% of patients who were successfully treated by rigid brace showed further curve progression beyond skeletal maturity, versus 38.5% of patients in the SpineCor group (P > 0.05). For both groups, the primary curves were slightly improved at the time of brace weaning, but additionally increased at the latest follow-up, with a rate of 1.5° per year for post-maturity progression. Curve progression rate was found to be significantly higher in the SpineCor group when compared with the rigid brace group. Changing to rigid bracing could control further curve progression for majority of patients who previously failed with SpineCor bracing. For both SpineCor and rigid brace treatments, 30-40% of patients who were originally successfully treated by bracing would exhibit further curve progression beyond skeletal maturity. The post-maturity progression rate was found to be 1.5° per year in the current study, which was relatively greater than those reported before.

GPS detection of ionospheric perturbation before the 13 February 2001, El Salvador earthquake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plotkin, V. V.

A large earthquake of M6.6 occurred on 13 February 2001 at 14:22:05 UT in El Salvador. We detected ionospheric perturbation before this earthquake using GPS data received from CORS network. Systematic decreases of ionospheric total electron content during two days before the earthquake onset were observed at set of stations near the earthquake location and probably in region of about 1000 km from epicenter. This result is consistent with that of investigators, which studied these phenomena with several observational techniques. However it is possible, that such TEC changes are simultaneously accompanied by changes due to solar wind parameters and Kp -index.

Reliability of Entire Corneal Thickness Mapping in Normal Post-Laser in situ Keratomileusis and Keratoconus Eyes Using Long Scan Depth Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography.

PubMed

Xu, Zhe; Chen, Sisi; Yang, Chun; Huang, Shenghai; Shen, Meixiao; Wang, Yuanyuan

2018-01-01

To investigate the repeatability and reproducibility of mapping the entire corneal thickness using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Thirty normal eyes, 30 post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery eyes, and 30 keratoconus eyes were analyzed. A custom-built long scan depth SD-OCT device was used to obtain entire corneal images. Ten-millimeter-diameter corneal thickness maps were generated by an automated segmentation algorithm. Intraclass correlation coefficients of repeatability (ICC1) and reproducibility (ICC2), and coefficients of repeatability (CoR1) and reproducibility (CoR2), were calculated to quantify the precision and accuracy of corneal pachymetry measurements using the Bland-Altman method. For SD-OCT measurements in healthy subjects, CoR1 and CoR2 were less than 5.00 and 5.53 μm. ICC1 and ICC2 were more than 0.997 and 0.996. For SD-OCT measurements in LASIK patients, CoR1 and CoR2 were less than 5.09 and 5.34 μm. ICC1 and ICC2 were more than 0.997 and 0.996. For SD-OCT measurements in keratoconus patients, CoR1 and CoR2 were less than 11.57 and 10.92 μm. ICC1 and ICC2 were more than 0.995 and 0.996. The measurements of corneal pachymetric mapping by long scan depth SD-OCT can be assessed over the entire corneal area with good repeatability and reproducibility. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

A method to perform spinal motion analysis from functional X-ray images.

PubMed

Schulze, Martin; Trautwein, Frank; Vordemvenne, Thomas; Raschke, Michael; Heuer, Frank

2011-06-03

Identifying spinal instability is an important aim for proper surgical treatment. Analysis of functional X-ray images delivers measurements of the range of motion (RoM) and the center of rotation (CoR). In today's practice, CoR determination is often omitted, due to the lack of accurate methods. The aim of this work was to investigate the accuracy of a new analysis software (FXA™) based on an in vitro experiment. Six bovine spinal specimens (L3-4) were mounted in a robot (KR125, Kuka). CoRs were predefined by locking the robot actuator tool center point to the estimated position of the physiologic CoR and taking a baseline X-ray. Specimens were deflected to various RoM(preset) flexion/extension angles about the CoR(preset). Lateral functional radiographs were acquired and specimen movements were recorded using an optical motion tracking system (Optotrak Certus). RoM and CoR errors were calculated from presets for both methods. Prior to the experiment, the FXA™ software was verified with artificially generated images. For the artificial images, FXA™ yielded a mean RoM-error of 0.01 ± 0.03° (bias ± standard deviation). In the experiment, RoM-error of the FXA™-software (deviation from presets) was 0.04 ± 0.13°, and 0.10 ± 0.16° for the Optotrak, respectively. Both correlated with 0.998 (p < 0.001). For RoM < 1.0°, FXA™ determined CoR positions with a bias>20mm. This bias progressively decreased from RoM = 1° (bias = 6.0mm) to RoM = 9° (bias<1.5mm). Under the assumption that CoR location variances <5mm are clinically irrelevant on the lumbar spine, the FXA™ method can accurately determine CoRs for RoMs > 1°. Utilizing FXA™, polysegmental RoMs, CoRs and implant migration measurements could be performed in daily practice. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

MeCorS: Metagenome-enabled error correction of single cell sequencing reads

DOE PAGES

Bremges, Andreas; Singer, Esther; Woyke, Tanja; ...

2016-03-15

Here we present a new tool, MeCorS, to correct chimeric reads and sequencing errors in Illumina data generated from single amplified genomes (SAGs). It uses sequence information derived from accompanying metagenome sequencing to accurately correct errors in SAG reads, even from ultra-low coverage regions. In evaluations on real data, we show that MeCorS outperforms BayesHammer, the most widely used state-of-the-art approach. MeCorS performs particularly well in correcting chimeric reads, which greatly improves both accuracy and contiguity of de novo SAG assemblies.

Characterization of the sequence and expression pattern of LFY homologues from dogwood species (Cornus) with divergent inflorescence architectures

PubMed Central

Liu, Juan; Franks, Robert G.; Feng, Chun-Miao; Liu, Xiang; Fu, Cheng-Xin;  (Jenny) Xiang, Qiu-Yun

2013-01-01

Background and Aims LFY homologues encode transcription factors that regulate the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth in flowering plants and have been shown to control inflorescence patterning in model species. This study investigated the expression patterns of LFY homologues within the diverse inflorescence types (head-like, umbel-like and inflorescences with elongated internodes) in closely related lineages in the dogwood genus (Cornus s.l.). The study sought to determine whether LFY homologues in Cornus species are expressed during floral and inflorescence development and if the pattern of expression is consistent with a function in regulating floral development and inflorescence architectures in the genus. Methods Total RNAs were extracted using the CTAB method and the first-strand cDNA was synthesized using the SuperScript III first-strand synthesis system kit (Invitrogen). Expression of CorLFY was investigated by RT–PCR and RNA in situ hybridization. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the maximum likelihood methods implemented in RAxML-HPC v7.2.8. Key Results cDNA clones of LFY homologues (designated CorLFY) were isolated from six Cornus species bearing different types of inflorescence. CorLFY cDNAs were predicted to encode proteins of approximately 375 amino acids. The detection of CorLFY expression patterns using in situ RNA hybridization demonstrated the expression of CorLFY within the inflorescence meristems, inflorescence branch meristems, floral meristems and developing floral organ primordia. PCR analyses for cDNA libraries derived from reverse transcription of total RNAs showed that CorLFY was also expressed during the late-stage development of flowers and inflorescences, as well as in bracts and developing leaves. Consistent differences in the CorLFY expression patterns were not detected among the distinct inflorescence types. Conclusions The results suggest a role for CorLFY genes during floral and inflorescence development in dogwoods. However, the failure to detect expression differences between the inflorescence types in the Cornus species analysed suggests that the evolutionary shift between major inflorescence types in the genus is not controlled by dramatic alterations in the levels of CorLFY gene transcript accumulation. However, due to spatial, temporal and quantitative limitations of the expression data, it cannot be ruled out that subtle differences in the level or location of CorLFY transcripts may underlie the different inflorescence architectures that are observed across these species. Alternatively, differences in CorLFY protein function or the expression or function of other regulators (e.g. TFL1 and UFO homologues) may support the divergent developmental trajectories. PMID:24052556

Characterization of the sequence and expression pattern of LFY homologues from dogwood species (Cornus) with divergent inflorescence architectures.

PubMed

Liu, Juan; Franks, Robert G; Feng, Chun-Miao; Liu, Xiang; Fu, Cheng-Xin; Jenny Xiang, Qiu-Yun

2013-11-01

LFY homologues encode transcription factors that regulate the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth in flowering plants and have been shown to control inflorescence patterning in model species. This study investigated the expression patterns of LFY homologues within the diverse inflorescence types (head-like, umbel-like and inflorescences with elongated internodes) in closely related lineages in the dogwood genus (Cornus s.l.). The study sought to determine whether LFY homologues in Cornus species are expressed during floral and inflorescence development and if the pattern of expression is consistent with a function in regulating floral development and inflorescence architectures in the genus. Total RNAs were extracted using the CTAB method and the first-strand cDNA was synthesized using the SuperScript III first-strand synthesis system kit (Invitrogen). Expression of CorLFY was investigated by RT-PCR and RNA in situ hybridization. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the maximum likelihood methods implemented in RAxML-HPC v7.2.8. cDNA clones of LFY homologues (designated CorLFY) were isolated from six Cornus species bearing different types of inflorescence. CorLFY cDNAs were predicted to encode proteins of approximately 375 amino acids. The detection of CorLFY expression patterns using in situ RNA hybridization demonstrated the expression of CorLFY within the inflorescence meristems, inflorescence branch meristems, floral meristems and developing floral organ primordia. PCR analyses for cDNA libraries derived from reverse transcription of total RNAs showed that CorLFY was also expressed during the late-stage development of flowers and inflorescences, as well as in bracts and developing leaves. Consistent differences in the CorLFY expression patterns were not detected among the distinct inflorescence types. The results suggest a role for CorLFY genes during floral and inflorescence development in dogwoods. However, the failure to detect expression differences between the inflorescence types in the Cornus species analysed suggests that the evolutionary shift between major inflorescence types in the genus is not controlled by dramatic alterations in the levels of CorLFY gene transcript accumulation. However, due to spatial, temporal and quantitative limitations of the expression data, it cannot be ruled out that subtle differences in the level or location of CorLFY transcripts may underlie the different inflorescence architectures that are observed across these species. Alternatively, differences in CorLFY protein function or the expression or function of other regulators (e.g. TFL1 and UFO homologues) may support the divergent developmental trajectories.

Effect of lateral offset center of rotation in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: a biomechanical study.

PubMed

Henninger, Heath B; Barg, Alexej; Anderson, Andrew E; Bachus, Kent N; Burks, Robert T; Tashjian, Robert Z

2012-09-01

Lateral offset center of rotation (COR) reduces the incidence of scapular notching and potentially increases external rotation range of motion (ROM) after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA). The purpose of this study was to determine the biomechanical effects of changing COR on abduction and external rotation ROM, deltoid abduction force, and joint stability. A biomechanical shoulder simulator tested cadaveric shoulders before and after rTSA. Spacers shifted the COR laterally from baseline rTSA by 5, 10, and 15 mm. Outcome measures of resting abduction and external rotation ROM, and abduction and dislocation (lateral and anterior) forces were recorded. Resting abduction increased 20° vs native shoulders and was unaffected by COR lateralization. External rotation decreased after rTSA and was unaffected by COR lateralization. The deltoid force required for abduction significantly decreased 25% from native to baseline rTSA. COR lateralization progressively eliminated this mechanical advantage. Lateral dislocation required significantly less force than anterior dislocation after rTSA, and both dislocation forces increased with lateralization of the COR. COR lateralization had no influence on ROM (adduction or external rotation) but significantly increased abduction and dislocation forces. This suggests the lower incidence of scapular notching may not be related to the amount of adduction deficit after lateral offset rTSA but may arise from limited impingement of the humeral component on the lateral scapula due to a change in joint geometry. Lateralization provides the benefit of increased joint stability, but at the cost of increasing deltoid abduction forces. Copyright © 2012 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

CorVue algorithm efficacy to predict heart failure in real life: Unnecessary and potentially misleading information?

PubMed

Palfy, Julia Anna; Benezet-Mazuecos, Juan; Milla, Juan Martinez; Iglesias, Jose Antonio; de la Vieja, Juan Jose; Sanchez-Borque, Pepa; Miracle, Angel; Rubio, Jose Manuel

2018-06-01

Heart failure (HF) hospitalizations have a negative impact on quality of life and imply important costs. Intrathoracic impedance (ITI) variations detected by cardiac devices have been hypothesized to predict HF hospitalizations. Although Optivol™ algorithm (Medtronic) has been widely studied, CorVue™ algorithm (St. Jude Medical) long term efficacy has not been systematically evaluated in a "real life" cohort. CorVue™ was activated in ICD/CRT-D patients to store information about ITI measures. Clinical events (new episodes of HF requiring treatment and hospitalizations) and CorVue™ data were recorded every three months. Appropriate CorVue™ detection for HF was considered if it occurred in the four prior weeks to the clinical event. 53 ICD/CRT-D (26 ICD and 27 CRT-D) patients (67±1 years-old, 79% male) were included. Device position was subcutaneous in 28 patients. At inclusion, mean LVEF was 25±7% and 27 patients (51%) were in NYHA class I, 18 (34%) class II and 8 (15%) class III. After a mean follow-up of 17±9 months, 105 ITI drops alarms were detected in 32 patients (60%). Only six alarms were appropriate (true positive) and required hospitalization. Eighteen patients (34%) presented 25 clinical episodes (12 hospitalizations and 13 ER/ambulatory treatment modifications). Nineteen of these clinical episodes (76%) remained undetected by the CorVue™ (false negative). Sensitivity of CorVue™ resulted in 24%, specificity was 70%, positive predictive value of 6% and negative predictive value of 93%. CorVue™ showed a low sensitivity to predict HF events. Therefore, routinely activation of this algorithm could generate misleading information. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Effectiveness of Treatment of Idiopathic Scoliosis by SpineCor Dynamic Bracing with Special Physiotherapy Programme in SpineCor System.

PubMed

Rożek, Karina; Potaczek, Tomasz; Zarzycka, Maja; Lipik, Ewa; Jasiewicz, Barbara

2016-10-28

The SpineCor dynamic brace for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis is designed to maintain the correct position of the spine and a new movement strategy for 20 hours per day. The SpineCor exercise system intensifies and complements the brace treatment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a comprehensive treatment of idiopathic scoliosis involving the SpineCor system. The study assessed a group of 40 patients (38 girls and 2 boys) with idiopathic scoliosis treated with the SpineCor brace. The average age at beginning of treatment was 13.1 yrs (10-15). Minimum treatment time was 18 months. 28 participants met the SRS criteria. Angles of the curve before and after bracing based on imaging studies were measured at the beginning and end of the treatment, analyzed and compared. Rehabilitation focused on teaching active corrective movement throughout the brace treatment. A control group was formed of 33 patients, including 21 meeting the SRS criteria, who used the SpineCor dynamic brace but did not participate in the associated exercise programme. Among patients from the exercise group who met the SRS criteria, 25% demonstrated reduced curve angles, 35.7% demonstrated curve progression and 39.3% showed stabilization (no change). Among patients meeting the SRS criteria from the control group, a decrease in curve angle was observed in 14.3% of the patients, curve progression in 57.1% and stabilization in 28.6%. 1. The addition of a dedicated physiotherapy programme to SpineCor dynamic bracing improves the chances of obtaining a positive outcome. 2. It is necessary to further analyse the course of the comprehensive treatment, also with regard to other types of braces and kinesiotherapy programmes.

Reliability of power profiles measured on NIMO TR1504 (Lambda-X) and effects of lens decentration for single vision, bifocal and multifocal contact lenses.

PubMed

Kim, Eon; Bakaraju, Ravi C; Ehrmann, Klaus

2016-01-01

To evaluate the repeatability of power profiles measured on NIMO TR1504 (Lambda-X, Belgium) and investigate the effects of lens decentration on the power profiles for single vision (SV), bifocal (BF) and multifocal (MF) contact lenses. Accuracy of the sphere power was evaluated using single vision BK-7 calibration glass lenses of six minus and six plus powers. Three SV and four BF/MF contact lenses - three lenses each, were measured five times to calculate the coefficients of repeatability (COR) of the instrument. The COR was computed for each chord position, lens design, prescription power and operator. One lens from each type was measured with a deliberate decentration up to ±0.5mm in 0.1mm steps. For all lenses, the COR varied across different regions of the half-chord position. In general, SV lenses showed lower COR compared to the BF/MF group lenses. There were no noticeable trends of COR between prescription powers for SV and BF/MF lenses. The shape of the power profiles was not affected when lenses were deliberately decentered for all SV and PureVision MF lenses. However, for Acuvue BF lenses, the peak to trough amplitude of the power profiles flattened up to 1.00D. The COR across the half-chord of the optic zone diameter was mostly within clinical relevance except for the central 0.5mm half-chord position. COR were dependent on the lens type, whereby BF/MF group produced higher COR than SV lenses. The effects of deliberate decentration on the shape of power profiles were pronounced for lenses where the profiles had sharp transitions of power. Copyright © 2015 Spanish General Council of Optometry. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

COR V2: teaching observational research with multimedia courseware.

PubMed

Blasko, Dawn G; Kazmerski, Victoria A; Torgerson, Carla N

2004-05-01

Courseware for Observational Research (COR Version 2) is an interactive multimedia program designed to teach the foundation of the scientific method: systematic observation. COR uses digital video with interactive coding to teach basic concepts, such as creating precise operational definitions; using frequency, interval, and duration coding; developing sampling strategies; and analyzing and interpreting data. Through lessons, a case study, and laboratory exercises, it gradually scaffolds students from teacher-directed learning into self-directed learning. The newest addition to COR is a case study in which students work collaboratively, using their own observations to make recommendations about a child's disruptive behavior in an after-school program. Evaluations of the lessons showed that classes using COR received better grades on their field observations than did those using methods that are more traditional. Students' confidence and knowledge increased as they moved through each section of the program.

Standardized Automated CO2/H2O Flux Systems for Individual Research Groups and Flux Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, George; Begashaw, Israel; Fratini, Gerardo; Griessbaum, Frank; Kathilankal, James; Xu, Liukang; Franz, Daniela; Joseph, Everette; Larmanou, Eric; Miller, Scott; Papale, Dario; Sabbatini, Simone; Sachs, Torsten; Sakai, Ricardo; McDermitt, Dayle

2017-04-01

In recent years, spatial and temporal flux data coverage improved significantly, and on multiple scales, from a single station to continental networks, due to standardization, automation, and management of data collection, and better handling of the extensive amounts of generated data. With more stations and networks, larger data flows from each station, and smaller operating budgets, modern tools are required to effectively and efficiently handle the entire process. Such tools are needed to maximize time dedicated to authoring publications and answering research questions, and to minimize time and expenses spent on data acquisition, processing, and quality control. Thus, these tools should produce standardized verifiable datasets and provide a way to cross-share the standardized data with external collaborators to leverage available funding, promote data analyses and publications. LI-COR gas analyzers are widely used in past and present flux networks such as AmeriFlux, ICOS, AsiaFlux, OzFlux, NEON, CarboEurope, and FluxNet-Canada, etc. These analyzers have gone through several major improvements over the past 30 years. However, in 2016, a three-prong development was completed to create an automated flux system which can accept multiple sonic anemometer and datalogger models, compute final and complete fluxes on-site, merge final fluxes with supporting weather soil and radiation data, monitor station outputs and send automated alerts to researchers, and allow secure sharing and cross-sharing of the station and data access. Two types of these research systems were developed: open-path (LI-7500RS) and enclosed-path (LI-7200RS). Key developments included: • Improvement of gas analyzer performance • Standardization and automation of final flux calculations onsite, and in real-time • Seamless integration with latest site management and data sharing tools In terms of the gas analyzer performance, the RS analyzers are based on established LI-7500/A and LI-7200 models, and the improvements focused on increased stability in the presence of contamination, refining temperature control and compensation, and providing more accurate fast gas concentration measurements. In terms of the flux calculations, improvements focused on automating the on-site flux calculations using EddyPro® software run by a weatherized fully digital microcomputer, SmartFlux2. In terms of site management and data sharing, the development focused on web-based software, FluxSuite, which allows real-time station monitoring and data access by multiple users. The presentation will describe details for the key developments and will include results from field tests of the RS gas analyzer models in comparison with older models and control reference instruments.

Comparison of Lyman-alpha and LI-COR infrared hygrometers for airborne measurement of turbulent fluctuations of water vapour

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lampert, Astrid; Hartmann, Jörg; Pätzold, Falk; Lobitz, Lennart; Hecker, Peter; Kohnert, Katrin; Larmanou, Eric; Serafimovich, Andrei; Sachs, Torsten

2018-05-01

To investigate if the LI-COR humidity sensor can be used as a replacement of the Lyman-alpha sensor for airborne applications, the measurement data of the Lyman-alpha and several LI-COR sensors are analysed in direct intercomparison flights on different airborne platforms. One vibration isolated closed-path and two non-isolated open-path LI-COR sensors were installed on a Dornier 128 twin engine turbo-prop aircraft. The closed-path sensor provided absolute values and fluctuations of the water vapour mixing ratio in good agreement with the Lyman-alpha. The signals of the two open-path sensors showed considerable high-frequency noise, and the absolute value of the mixing ratio was observed to drift with time in this vibrational environment. On the helicopter-towed sensor system Helipod, with very low vibration levels, the open-path LI-COR sensor agreed very well with the Lyman-alpha sensor over the entire frequency range up to 3 Hz. The results show that the LI-COR sensors are well suited for airborne measurements of humidity fluctuations, provided that a vibrationless environment is given, and this turns out to be more important than close sensor spacing.

Coronatine Facilitates Pseudomonas syringae Infection of Arabidopsis Leaves at Night.

PubMed

Panchal, Shweta; Roy, Debanjana; Chitrakar, Reejana; Price, Lenore; Breitbach, Zachary S; Armstrong, Daniel W; Melotto, Maeli

2016-01-01

In many land plants, the stomatal pore opens during the day and closes during the night. Thus, periods of darkness could be effective in decreasing pathogen penetration into leaves through stomata, the primary sites for infection by many pathogens. Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000 produces coronatine (COR) and opens stomata, raising an intriguing question as to whether this is a virulence strategy to facilitate bacterial infection at night. In fact, we found that (a) biological concentration of COR is effective in opening dark-closed stomata of Arabidopsis thaliana leaves, (b) the COR defective mutant Pst DC3118 is less effective in infecting Arabidopsis in the dark than under light and this difference in infection is reduced with the wild type bacterium Pst DC3000, and (c) cma, a COR biosynthesis gene, is induced only when the bacterium is in contact with the leaf surface independent of the light conditions. These findings suggest that Pst DC3000 activates virulence factors at the pre-invasive phase of its life cycle to infect plants even when environmental conditions (such as darkness) favor stomatal immunity. This functional attribute of COR may provide epidemiological advantages for COR-producing bacteria on the leaf surface.

Coronatine Facilitates Pseudomonas syringae Infection of Arabidopsis Leaves at Night

PubMed Central

Panchal, Shweta; Roy, Debanjana; Chitrakar, Reejana; Price, Lenore; Breitbach, Zachary S.; Armstrong, Daniel W.; Melotto, Maeli

2016-01-01

In many land plants, the stomatal pore opens during the day and closes during the night. Thus, periods of darkness could be effective in decreasing pathogen penetration into leaves through stomata, the primary sites for infection by many pathogens. Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000 produces coronatine (COR) and opens stomata, raising an intriguing question as to whether this is a virulence strategy to facilitate bacterial infection at night. In fact, we found that (a) biological concentration of COR is effective in opening dark-closed stomata of Arabidopsis thaliana leaves, (b) the COR defective mutant Pst DC3118 is less effective in infecting Arabidopsis in the dark than under light and this difference in infection is reduced with the wild type bacterium Pst DC3000, and (c) cma, a COR biosynthesis gene, is induced only when the bacterium is in contact with the leaf surface independent of the light conditions. These findings suggest that Pst DC3000 activates virulence factors at the pre-invasive phase of its life cycle to infect plants even when environmental conditions (such as darkness) favor stomatal immunity. This functional attribute of COR may provide epidemiological advantages for COR-producing bacteria on the leaf surface. PMID:27446113

CorA Is a Copper Repressible Surface-Associated Copper(I)-Binding Protein Produced in Methylomicrobium album BG8

PubMed Central

Johnson, Kenneth A.; Ve, Thomas; Larsen, Øivind; Pedersen, Rolf B.; Lillehaug, Johan R.; Jensen, Harald B.; Helland, Ronny; Karlsen, Odd A.

2014-01-01

CorA is a copper repressible protein previously identified in the methanotrophic bacterium Methylomicrobium album BG8. In this work, we demonstrate that CorA is located on the cell surface and binds one copper ion per protein molecule, which, based on X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure analysis, is in the reduced state (Cu(I)). The structure of endogenously expressed CorA was solved using X-ray crystallography. The 1.6 Å three-dimensional structure confirmed the binding of copper and revealed that the copper atom was coordinated in a mononuclear binding site defined by two histidines, one water molecule, and the tryptophan metabolite, kynurenine. This arrangement of the copper-binding site is similar to that of its homologous protein MopE* from Metylococcus capsulatus Bath, confirming the importance of kynurenine for copper binding in these proteins. Our findings show that CorA has an overall fold similar to MopE, including the unique copper(I)-binding site and most of the secondary structure elements. We suggest that CorA plays a role in the M. album BG8 copper acquisition. PMID:24498370

Intercomparison of the LASCO-C2, SECCHI-COR1, SECCHI-COR2, and Mk4 Coronagraphs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazin, Richard A.; Vasquez, Alberto M.; Thompson, William T.; Hewett, Russell J.; Lamy, Philippe; Llebaria, Antoine; Vourlidas, Angelos; Burkepile, Joan

2012-01-01

In order to assess the reliability and consistency of white-light coronagraph measurements, we report on quantitative comparisons between polarized brightness [pB] and total brightness [B] images taken by the following white-light coronagraphs: LASCO-C2 on SOHO, SECCHI-COR1 and -COR2 on STEREO, and the ground-based MLSO-Mk4. The data for this comparison were taken on 16 April 2007, when both STEREO spacecraft were within 3.1 deg. of Earth’s heliographic longitude, affording essentially the same view of the Sun for all of the instruments. Due to the difficulties of estimating stray-light backgrounds in COR1 and COR2, only Mk4 and C2 produce reliable coronal-hole values (but not at overlapping heights), and these cannot be validated without rocket flights or ground-based eclipse measurements. Generally, the agreement between all of the instruments’ pB values is within the uncertainties in bright streamer structures, implying that measurements of bright CMEs also should be trustworthy. Dominant sources of uncertainty and stray light are discussed, as is the design of future coronagraphs from the perspective of the experiences with these instruments.

Construction Theory and Noise Analysis Method of Global CGCS2000 Coordinate Frame

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Z.; Wang, F.; Bai, J.; Li, Z.

2018-04-01

The definition, renewal and maintenance of geodetic datum has been international hot issue. In recent years, many countries have been studying and implementing modernization and renewal of local geodetic reference coordinate frame. Based on the precise result of continuous observation for recent 15 years from state CORS (continuously operating reference system) network and the mainland GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) network between 1999 and 2007, this paper studies the construction of mathematical model of the Global CGCS2000 frame, mainly analyzes the theory and algorithm of two-step method for Global CGCS2000 Coordinate Frame formulation. Finally, the noise characteristic of the coordinate time series are estimated quantitatively with the criterion of maximum likelihood estimation.

The Effect of Aberrations and Apodisation on the Performance of Coherent Imaging Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-02-01

later Jacquinot and Roizen-Dossier 27(1964) described the previotic wrk, Since then, many workers (see for example references 28-31) have - cor.t -: .o...transmission loss . The pacier bv Thompson and KriSl 48 ! resents a comoact overview of th-e sub’er! of apodisation as applied to coherent imaging and beam...system. This difficulty translates into extra weight , size, and , excense in any oractical ootical system 152 77V.-- .- --.--- 153 In the theoretical

The effects of cold acclimation on photosynthetic apparatus and the expression of COR14b in four genotypes of barley (Hordeum vulgare) contrasting in their tolerance to freezing and high-light treatment in cold conditions.

PubMed

Rapacz, Marcin; Wolanin, Barbara; Hura, Katarzyna; Tyrka, Miroslaw

2008-04-01

Cold acclimation modifies the balance of the energy absorbed and metabolized in the dark processes of photosynthesis, which may affect the expression of cold-regulated (COR) genes. At the same time, a gradual acclimation to the relatively high light conditions is observed, thereby minimizing the potential for photo-oxidative damage. As a result, the resistance to photoinhibition in the cold has often been identified as a trait closely related to freezing tolerance. Using four barley genotypes that differentially express both traits, the effect of cold acclimation on freezing tolerance and high-light tolerance was studied together with the expression of COR14b, one of the best-characterized barley COR genes. Plants were cold acclimated for 2 weeks at 2 degrees C. Freezing tolerance was studied by means of electrolyte leakage. Changes in photosynthetic apparatus and high-light tolerance were monitored by means of chlorophyll fluorescence. Accumulation of COR14b and some proteins important in photosynthetic acclimation to cold were studied with western analysis. COR14b transcript accumulation during cold acclimation was assessed with real-time PCR. Cold acclimation increased both freezing tolerance and high-light tolerance, especially when plants were treated with high light after non-lethal freezing. In all plants, cold acclimation triggered the increase in photosynthetic capacity during high-light treatment. In two plants that were characterized by higher high-light tolerance but lower freezing tolerance, higher accumulation of COR14b transcript and protein was observed after 7 d and 14 d of cold acclimation, while a higher transient induction of COR14b expression was observed in freezing-tolerant plants during the first day of cold acclimation. High-light tolerant plants were also characterized with a higher level of PsbS accumulation and more efficient dissipation of excess light energy. Accumulation of COR14b in barley seems to be important for resistance to combined freezing and high-light tolerance, but not for freezing tolerance per se.

Extragalactic sources in Cosmic Microwave Background maps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Zotti, G.; Castex, G.; González-Nuevo, J.; Lopez-Caniego, M.; Negrello, M.; Cai, Z.-Y.; Clemens, M.; Delabrouille, J.; Herranz, D.; Bonavera, L.; Melin, J.-B.; Tucci, M.; Serjeant, S.; Bilicki, M.; Andreani, P.; Clements, D. L.; Toffolatti, L.; Roukema, B. F.

2015-06-01

We discuss the potential of a next generation space-borne CMB experiment for studies of extragalactic sources with reference to COrE+, a project submitted to ESA in response to the call for a Medium-size mission (M4). We consider three possible options for the telescope size: 1 m, 1.5 m and 2 m (although the last option is probably impractical, given the M4 boundary conditions). The proposed instrument will be far more sensitive than Planck and will have a diffraction-limited angular resolution. These properties imply that even the 1 m telescope option will perform substantially better than Planck for studies of extragalactic sources. The source detection limits as a function of frequency have been estimated by means of realistic simulations taking into account all the relevant foregrounds. Predictions for the various classes of extragalactic sources are based on up-to-date models. The most significant improvements over Planck results are presented for each option. COrE+ will provide much larger samples of truly local star-forming galaxies (by about a factor of 8 for the 1 m telescope, of 17 for 1.5 m, of 30 for 2 m), making possible analyses of the properties of galaxies (luminosity functions, dust mass functions, star formation rate functions, dust temperature distributions, etc.) across the Hubble sequence. Even more interestingly, COrE+ will detect, at |b| > 30°, thousands of strongly gravitationally lensed galaxies (about 2,000, 6,000 and 13,000 for the 1 m, 1.5 m and 2 m options, respectively). Such large samples are of extraordinary astrophysical and cosmological value in many fields. Moreover, COrE+ high frequency maps will be optimally suited to pick up proto-clusters of dusty galaxies, i.e. to investigate the evolution of large scale structure at larger redshifts than can be reached by other means. Thanks to its high sensitivity COrE+ will also yield a spectacular advance in the blind detection of extragalactic sources in polarization: we expect that it will detect up to a factor of 40 (1 m option) or of 160 (1.5 m option) more radio sources than can be detected by Planck and, for the first time, from several tens (1 m option) to a few hundreds (1.5 m option) of star forming galaxies. This will open a new window for studies of the global properties of magnetic fields in star forming galaxies and of their relationships with star formation rates.

Molecular dynamics simulations and CD spectroscopy reveal hydration-induced unfolding of the intrinsically disordered LEA proteins COR15A and COR15B from Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Navarro-Retamal, Carlos; Bremer, Anne; Alzate-Morales, Jans; Caballero, Julio; Hincha, Dirk K; González, Wendy; Thalhammer, Anja

2016-10-07

The LEA (late embryogenesis abundant) proteins COR15A and COR15B from Arabidopsis thaliana are intrinsically disordered under fully hydrated conditions, but obtain α-helical structure during dehydration, which is reversible upon rehydration. To understand this unusual structural transition, both proteins were investigated by circular dichroism (CD) and molecular dynamics (MD) approaches. MD simulations showed unfolding of the proteins in water, in agreement with CD data obtained with both HIS-tagged and untagged recombinant proteins. Mainly intramolecular hydrogen bonds (H-bonds) formed by the protein backbone were replaced by H-bonds with water molecules. As COR15 proteins function in vivo as protectants in leaves partially dehydrated by freezing, unfolding was further assessed under crowded conditions. Glycerol reduced (40%) or prevented (100%) unfolding during MD simulations, in agreement with CD spectroscopy results. H-bonding analysis indicated that preferential exclusion of glycerol from the protein backbone increased stability of the folded state.

Molecular mechanism of Mg2+-dependent gating in CorA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dalmas, Olivier; Sompornpisut, Pornthep; Bezanilla, Francisco; Perozo, Eduardo

2014-04-01

CorA is the major transport system responsible for Mg2+ uptake in bacteria and can functionally substitute for its homologue Mrs2p in the yeast inner mitochondrial membrane. Although several CorA crystal structures are available, the molecular mechanism of Mg2+ uptake remains to be established. Here we use electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, electrophysiology and molecular dynamic simulations to show that CorA is regulated by cytoplasmic Mg2+ acting as a ligand and elucidate the basic conformational rearrangements responsible for Mg2+-dependent gating. Mg2+ unbinding at the divalent cation sensor triggers a conformational change that leads to the inward motion of the stalk helix, which propagates to the pore-forming transmembrane helix TM1. Helical tilting and rotation in TM1 generates an iris-like motion that increases the diameter of the permeation pathway, triggering ion conduction. This work establishes the molecular basis of a Mg2+-driven negative feedback loop in CorA as the key physiological event controlling Mg2+ uptake and homeostasis in prokaryotes.

Epigenetic switch from repressive to permissive chromatin in response to cold stress.

PubMed

Park, Junghoon; Lim, Chae Jin; Shen, Mingzhe; Park, Hee Jin; Cha, Joon-Yung; Iniesto, Elisa; Rubio, Vicente; Mengiste, Tesfaye; Zhu, Jian-Kang; Bressan, Ray A; Lee, Sang Yeol; Lee, Byeong-Ha; Jin, Jing Bo; Pardo, Jose M; Kim, Woe-Yeon; Yun, Dae-Jin

2018-06-05

Switching from repressed to active status in chromatin regulation is part of the critical responses that plants deploy to survive in an ever-changing environment. We previously reported that HOS15, a WD40-repeat protein, is involved in histone deacetylation and cold tolerance in Arabidopsis However, it remained unknown how HOS15 regulates cold responsive genes to affect cold tolerance. Here, we show that HOS15 interacts with histone deacetylase 2C (HD2C) and both proteins together associate with the promoters of cold-responsive COR genes, COR15A and COR47 Cold induced HD2C degradation is mediated by the CULLIN4 (CUL4)-based E3 ubiquitin ligase complex in which HOS15 acts as a substrate receptor. Interference with the association of HD2C and the COR gene promoters by HOS15 correlates with increased acetylation levels of histone H3. HOS15 also interacts with CBF transcription factors to modulate cold-induced binding to the COR gene promoters. Our results here demonstrate that cold induces HOS15-mediated chromatin modifications by degrading HD2C. This switches the chromatin structure status and facilitates recruitment of CBFs to the COR gene promoters. This is an apparent requirement to acquire cold tolerance. Copyright © 2018 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

Small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix (CorMatrix®) in cardiovascular surgery: a systematic review

PubMed Central

Mosala Nezhad, Zahra; Poncelet, Alain; de Kerchove, Laurent; Gianello, Pierre; Fervaille, Caroline; El Khoury, Gebrine

2016-01-01

Extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from small intestinal submucosa (SIS) is widely used in clinical applications as a scaffold for tissue repair. Recently, CorMatrix® porcine SIS-ECM (CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Inc., Roswell, GA, USA) has gained popularity for ‘next-generation’ cardiovascular tissue engineering due to its ease of use, remodelling properties, lack of immunogenicity, absorbability and potential to promote native tissue growth. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of porcine SIS-ECM and systematically review the preclinical and clinical literature on its use in cardiovascular surgery. CorMatrix® has been used in a variety of cardiovascular surgical applications, and since it is the most widely used SIS-ECM, this material is the focus of this review. Since CorMatrix® is a relatively new product for cardiovascular surgery, some clinical and preclinical studies published lack systematic reporting of functional and pathological findings in sufficient numbers of subjects. There are also emerging reports to suggest that, contrary to expectations, an undesirable inflammatory response may occur in CorMatrix® implants in humans and longer-term outcomes at particular sites, such as the heart valves, may be suboptimal. Large-scale clinical studies are needed driven by robust protocols that aim to quantify the pathological process of tissue repair. PMID:26912574

Epigenetic switch from repressive to permissive chromatin in response to cold stress

PubMed Central

Park, Junghoon; Lim, Chae Jin; Shen, Mingzhe; Park, Hee Jin; Cha, Joon-Yung; Iniesto, Elisa; Rubio, Vicente; Mengiste, Tesfaye; Bressan, Ray A.; Lee, Sang Yeol; Lee, Byeong-ha; Kim, Woe-Yeon; Yun, Dae-Jin

2018-01-01

Switching from repressed to active status in chromatin regulation is part of the critical responses that plants deploy to survive in an ever-changing environment. We previously reported that HOS15, a WD40-repeat protein, is involved in histone deacetylation and cold tolerance in Arabidopsis. However, it remained unknown how HOS15 regulates cold responsive genes to affect cold tolerance. Here, we show that HOS15 interacts with histone deacetylase 2C (HD2C) and both proteins together associate with the promoters of cold-responsive COR genes, COR15A and COR47. Cold induced HD2C degradation is mediated by the CULLIN4 (CUL4)-based E3 ubiquitin ligase complex in which HOS15 acts as a substrate receptor. Interference with the association of HD2C and the COR gene promoters by HOS15 correlates with increased acetylation levels of histone H3. HOS15 also interacts with CBF transcription factors to modulate cold-induced binding to the COR gene promoters. Our results here demonstrate that cold induces HOS15-mediated chromatin modifications by degrading HD2C. This switches the chromatin structure status and facilitates recruitment of CBFs to the COR gene promoters. This is an apparent requirement to acquire cold tolerance. PMID:29784800

Estimation of the center of rotation using wearable magneto-inertial sensors.

PubMed

Crabolu, M; Pani, D; Raffo, L; Cereatti, A

2016-12-08

Determining the center of rotation (CoR) of joints is fundamental to the field of human movement analysis. CoR can be determined using a magneto-inertial measurement unit (MIMU) using a functional approach requiring a calibration exercise. We systematically investigated the influence of different experimental conditions that can affect precision and accuracy while estimating the CoR, such as (a) angular joint velocity, (b) distance between the MIMU and the CoR, (c) type of the joint motion implemented, (d) amplitude of the angular range of motion, (e) model of the MIMU used for data recording, (f) amplitude of additive noise on inertial signals, and (g) amplitude of the errors in the MIMU orientation. The evaluation process was articulated at three levels: assessment through experiments using a mechanical device, mathematical simulation, and an analytical propagation model of the noise. The results reveal that joint angular velocity significantly impacted CoR identification, and hence, slow joint movement should be avoided. An accurate estimation of the MIMU orientation is also fundamental for accurately subtracting the contribution owing to gravity to obtain the coordinate acceleration. The unit should be preferably attached close to the CoR, but both type and range of motion do not appear to be critical. When the proposed methodology is correctly implemented, error in the CoR estimates is expected to be <3mm (best estimates=2±0.5mm). The findings of the present study foster the need to further investigate this methodology for application in human subjects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of noninvasive assessments of central blood pressure using general transfer function and late systolic shoulder of the radial pressure wave.

PubMed

Wohlfahrt, Peter; Krajcoviechová, Alena; Seidlerová, Jitka; Mayer, Otto; Filipovsky, Jan; Cífková, Renata

2014-02-01

Central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) can be derived by the general transfer function of the radial pressure wave, as used in the SphygmoCor device, or by regression equation from directly measured late systolic shoulder of the radial pressure wave (pSBP2), as used in the Omron HEM-9000AI device. The aim of this study was to compare the SphygmoCor estimates of cSBP with 2 estimates of cSBP provided by the Omron HEM-9000AI (cSBP, pSBP2) in a large cohort of the white population. In 391 patients aged 52.3±13.5 years (46% men) from the Czech post-MONICA Study, cSBP was measured using the SphygmoCor and Omron HEM-9000AI devices in random order. Omron cSBP and pSBP2 were perfectly correlated (r = 1.0; P < 0.0001). There was a strong correlation (r = 0.97; P < 0.0001) between Omron and SphygmoCor cSBP estimates, but Omron estimate was 13.1±4.7mm Hg higher than SphygmoCor cSBP. On the other hand, Omron pSBP2 strongly correlated with SphygmoCor cSBP (r = 0.97; P < 0.0001) and was 1.7±4.2mm Hg lower than SphygmoCor cSBP. In multivariable analysis, anthropometric and cardiovascular risk factors explained only 10% of the variance of the cSBP difference between devices while explaining 52% of the systolic blood pressure amplification variance. Estimation of cSBP based on the late systolic shoulder of the radial wave provides a comparable accuracy with the validated general transfer function. When comparing Omron HEM-9000AI and SphygmoCor estimates of cSBP, Omron pSBP2 should be used. The difference between both devices in cSBP may be explained by differences in calibration.

Spatial profiles of methane at the Swiss Plateau: A confrontation between measurements and emission inventories.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bamberger, Ines; Eugster, Werner; Buchmann, Nina

2013-04-01

Methane and carbon dioxide are the two most prominent greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and a detailed knowledge about their sources is essential for climate predictions (Solomon et al., 2007). The knowledge about greenhouse gas fluxes is usually merged, albeit including considerable uncertainties, to emission inventories. To increase the quality of the inventories a comparison with measurements is necessary. We evaluate the values given by a Swiss emission inventory with regard to atmospheric measurements of methane in Switzerland. Spatial profiles of carbon dioxide and methane were investigated at the Swiss Plateau during two consecutive warm and sunny summer days in July 2012. For the mobile methane and carbon dioxide measurements a LGR methane analyser and a LI-COR closed-path infrared gas analyser (IRGA) were mounted on a car together with an AIRMAR WeatherStation to track geodetic-coordinates and meteorological parameters. First results of the measurements including aerial profiles of the greenhouse gases and bin-averaged elevation profiles of methane and temperature will be presented and a highly-resolved methane emission inventory will be evaluated in comparison with the spatial profiles of atmospheric methane at the Swiss Plateau. References: Solomon, S., Qin D., et al. (Eds.) (2007) Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 996 S. pp., Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Morphotectonic analysis and GNSS observations for assessment of relative tectonic activity in Alaknanda basin of Garhwal Himalaya, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Gopal; Champati ray, P. K.; Mohanty, S.

2018-01-01

Alaknanda basin in the Garhwal Himalaya, India, is a tectonically active region owing to ongoing crustal deformation, erosion, and depositional processes active in the region. Active tectonics in this region have greatly affected the drainage system and geomorphic expression of topography and provide an ideal natural set up to investigate the influence of tectonic activity resulting from the India-Eurasia collision. We evaluated active tectonics by using high resolution digital elevation model (DEM) based on eight geomorphic indices (stream length gradient index, valley floor width-to-height ratio, hypsometric integral, drainage basin asymmetry, transverse topography symmetry factor, mountain front sinousity index, bifurcation ratio, and basin shape index) and seismicity in eight subbasins of Alaknanda basin. The integrated product, relative tectonic activity index (TAI) map, was classified into three classes such as: 'highly active' with values ranging up to 2.0; 'moderately active' with values ranging from 2.0 to 2.25; and 'less active' with values > 2.25. Further, the results were compared with relatively high crustal movement rate of 41.10 mm/y computed through high precession Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based continuous operating reference station (CORS) data. Thus, we concluded that this new quantitative approach can be used for better characterization and assessment of active seismotectonic regions of the Himalaya and elsewhere.

Cor triatriatum dexter associated with atrial septal defect: Management in a complex clinical case.

PubMed

Sozzi, Fabiola B; Montanaro, Claudia; Bacà, Laura; Viani, Giacomo M; Zilocchi, Massimo; Canetta, Ciro; Meazza, Roberto; Pavone, Laura; Lombardi, Federico

2017-11-01

The coexistence of an atrial septal defect and a prominent eustachian valve is a rare congenital anomaly, rarely reported in literature. Differentiation between a giant eustachian valve and cor triatriatum dexter can be difficult. A case of a large atrial septal defect associated with cor triatriatum dexter diagnosed by echocardiography in an asymptomatic woman is reported. A watchful waiting strategy was adopted. © 2017, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

cDNA sequence and expression of a cold-responsive gene in Citrus unshiu.

PubMed

Hara, M; Wakasugi, Y; Ikoma, Y; Yano, M; Ogawa, K; Kuboi, T

1999-02-01

A cDNA clone encoding a protein (CuCOR19), the sequence of which is similar to Poncirus COR19, of the dehydrin family was isolated from the epicarp of Citrus unshiu. The molecular mass of the predicted protein was 18,980 daltons. CuCOR19 was highly hydrophilic and contained three repeating elements including Lys-rich motifs. The gene expression in leaves increased by cold stress.

Cor triatriatum dexter and atrial septal defect in a 43-year-old woman.

PubMed

Vukovic, Petar M; Kosevic, Dragana; Milicic, Miroslav; Jovovic, Ljiljana; Stojanovic, Ivan; Micovic, Slobodan

2014-08-01

Cor triatriatum dexter is a rare congenital heart anomaly in which a membrane divides the right atrium into 2 chambers. We report the case of a 43-year-old woman who had cor triatriatum dexter and a large atrial septal defect. During attempted percutaneous closure, the balloon disrupted the membrane and revealed that the defect had no inferior rim, precluding secure placement of an Amplatzer Septal Occluder. Surgical treatment subsequently proved to be successful. In patients with an incomplete membrane and a septal defect with well-defined rims, percutaneous treatment can be the first choice. In patients who have cor triatriatum dexter and unfavorable anatomic features or concomitant complex heart anomalies, open-heart surgery remains the gold standard for treatment.

Cor Triatriatum Dexter and Atrial Septal Defect in a 43-Year-Old Woman

PubMed Central

Kosevic, Dragana; Milicic, Miroslav; Jovovic, Ljiljana; Stojanovic, Ivan; Micovic, Slobodan

2014-01-01

Cor triatriatum dexter is a rare congenital heart anomaly in which a membrane divides the right atrium into 2 chambers. We report the case of a 43-year-old woman who had cor triatriatum dexter and a large atrial septal defect. During attempted percutaneous closure, the balloon disrupted the membrane and revealed that the defect had no inferior rim, precluding secure placement of an Amplatzer Septal Occluder. Surgical treatment subsequently proved to be successful. In patients with an incomplete membrane and a septal defect with well-defined rims, percutaneous treatment can be the first choice. In patients who have cor triatriatum dexter and unfavorable anatomic features or concomitant complex heart anomalies, open-heart surgery remains the gold standard for treatment. PMID:25120397

Spectral Entropy Based Neuronal Network Synchronization Analysis Based on Microelectrode Array Measurements

PubMed Central

Kapucu, Fikret E.; Välkki, Inkeri; Mikkonen, Jarno E.; Leone, Chiara; Lenk, Kerstin; Tanskanen, Jarno M. A.; Hyttinen, Jari A. K.

2016-01-01

Synchrony and asynchrony are essential aspects of the functioning of interconnected neuronal cells and networks. New information on neuronal synchronization can be expected to aid in understanding these systems. Synchronization provides insight in the functional connectivity and the spatial distribution of the information processing in the networks. Synchronization is generally studied with time domain analysis of neuronal events, or using direct frequency spectrum analysis, e.g., in specific frequency bands. However, these methods have their pitfalls. Thus, we have previously proposed a method to analyze temporal changes in the complexity of the frequency of signals originating from different network regions. The method is based on the correlation of time varying spectral entropies (SEs). SE assesses the regularity, or complexity, of a time series by quantifying the uniformity of the frequency spectrum distribution. It has been previously employed, e.g., in electroencephalogram analysis. Here, we revisit our correlated spectral entropy method (CorSE), providing evidence of its justification, usability, and benefits. Here, CorSE is assessed with simulations and in vitro microelectrode array (MEA) data. CorSE is first demonstrated with a specifically tailored toy simulation to illustrate how it can identify synchronized populations. To provide a form of validation, the method was tested with simulated data from integrate-and-fire model based computational neuronal networks. To demonstrate the analysis of real data, CorSE was applied on in vitro MEA data measured from rat cortical cell cultures, and the results were compared with three known event based synchronization measures. Finally, we show the usability by tracking the development of networks in dissociated mouse cortical cell cultures. The results show that temporal correlations in frequency spectrum distributions reflect the network relations of neuronal populations. In the simulated data, CorSE unraveled the synchronizations. With the real in vitro MEA data, CorSE produced biologically plausible results. Since CorSE analyses continuous data, it is not affected by possibly poor spike or other event detection quality. We conclude that CorSE can reveal neuronal network synchronization based on in vitro MEA field potential measurements. CorSE is expected to be equally applicable also in the analysis of corresponding in vivo and ex vivo data analysis. PMID:27803660

Combining Stereo SECCHI COR2 and HI1 Images for Automatic CME Front Edge Tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kirnosov, Vladimir; Chang, Lin-Ching; Pulkkinen, Antti

2016-01-01

COR2 coronagraph images are the most commonly used data for coronal mass ejection (CME) analysis among the various types of data provided by the STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory) SECCHI (Sun-Earth Connection Coronal and Heliospheric Investigation) suite of instruments. The field of view (FOV) in COR2 images covers 215 solar radii (Rs) that allow for tracking the front edge of a CME in its initial stage to forecast the lead-time of a CME and its chances of reaching the Earth. However, estimating the lead-time of a CME using COR2 images gives a larger lead-time, which may be associated with greater uncertainty. To reduce this uncertainty, CME front edge tracking should be continued beyond the FOV of COR2 images. Therefore, heliospheric imager (HI1) data that covers 1590 Rs FOV must be included. In this paper, we propose a novel automatic method that takes both COR2 and HI1 images into account and combine the results to track the front edges of a CME continuously. The method consists of two modules: pre-processing and tracking. The pre-processing module produces a set of segmented images, which contain the signature of a CME, for both COR2 and HI1 separately. In addition, the HI1 images are resized and padded, so that the center of the Sun is the central coordinate of the resized HI1 images. The resulting COR2 andHI1 image set is then fed into the tracking module to estimate the position angle (PA) and track the front edge of a CME. The detected front edge is then used to produce a height-time profile that is used to estimate the speed of a CME. The method was validated using 15 CME events observed in the period from January 1, 2008 to August 31, 2009. The results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective for CME front edge tracking in both COR2 and HI1 images. Using this method, the CME front edge can now be tracked automatically and continuously in a much larger range, i.e., from 2 to 90 Rs, for the first time. These improvement scan greatly help in making the quantitative CME analysis more accurate and have the potential to assist in space weather forecasting.

NASA Astrophysics Cosmic Origins (COR) and Physics of the Cosmos (PCOS) Strategic Technology Development Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Thai; Seery, Bernard D.

2015-01-01

The COR and PCOS Program Offices (PO) reside at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), serving as the NASA Astrophysics Division's implementation arm for matters relating to the two programs. One aspect of the PO's activities is managing the COR and PCOS Strategic Astrophysics Technology (SAT) program, helping mature technologies to enable and enhance future astrophysics missions.The PO is guided by the National Research Council's 'New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics' Decadal Survey report, and NASA's Astrophysics Implementation Plan. Strategic goals include dark energy; gravitational waves; X-ray observatories, e.g., US participation in ATHENA; Inflation probe; and a large UV/Visible telescope.To date, 51 COR and 65 PCOS SAT proposals have been received, of which 11 COR and 18 PCOS projects were funded. Notable successes include maturation of a new far-IR detector, later adopted by the SOFIA HAWC instrument; maturation of the H4RG near-IR detector, adopted by WFIRST; development of an antenna-coupled transition-edge superconducting bolometer, a technology deployed by BICEP2 that allowed measurement of B-mode polarization in the CMB signal, a possible signature of Inflation; and finally, the REXIS instrument on OSIRIS-REx is incorporating CCDs with directly deposited optical blocking filters developed by another SAT-funded project.We discuss our technology development process, with community input and strategic prioritization informing calls for SAT proposals and guiding investment decisions. We also present results of this year's technology gap prioritization and showcase our current portfolio of technology development projects. These include five newly selected projects, kicking off in FY 2015.For more information, visit the COR Program website at cor.gsfc.nasa.gov and the PCOS website at pcos.gsfc.nasa.gov.

CorMatrix valved conduit in a porcine model: long-term remodelling and biomechanical characterization.

PubMed

Mosala Nezhad, Zahra; Poncelet, Alain; de Kerchove, Laurent; Fervaille, Caroline; Banse, Xavier; Bollen, Xavier; Dehoux, Jean-Paul; El Khoury, Gebrine; Gianello, Pierre

2017-01-01

Porcine small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix (CorMatrix; CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Rosewell, GA) is a relatively novel tissue substitute used in cardiovascular applications. We investigated the biological reaction and remodelling of CorMatrix as a tri-leaflet valved conduit in a pig model. We hypothesized that CorMatrix maintains a durable architecture as a valved conduit and remodels to resemble surrounding tissues. We fashioned the valved conduit using a 7 × 10 cm 4-ply CorMatrix sheet and placed it in the thoracic aorta of seven landrace pigs for 3, 4, 5 and 6 months. Biodegradation, replacement by native tissue, strength and durability were examined by histology, immunohistochemistry and mechanical testing. Four pigs, one per time frame, completed the study. The conduit lost its original architecture as a tri-leaflet valve due to cusp immobility, subsequent attachment to the wall segment and consequent maintenance of a thick arterial wall-like structure. Scaffold resorption was incomplete, with disorganized inconsistent spatial and temporal degradation even at 6 months. Fibrosis, scarring and calcification started at 4 months and chronic inflammation persisted. The partially remodelled scaffold did not resemble the aortic wall, suggesting impaired remodelling. Mechanical testing showed progressive weakening of the tissues over time, which were liable to breakage. CorMatrix is biodegradable; however, it failed to remodel in a structured and anatomical fashion in an arterial environment. Progressive mechanical and remodelling failure in this scenario might be explained by the complexity of the conduit design and the host's chronic inflammatory response, leading to early fibrosis and calcification. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Higher Plasma Myostatin Levels in Cor Pulmonale Secondary to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

PubMed

Ju, Chun-Rong; Chen, Miao; Zhang, Jian-Heng; Lin, Zhi-Ya; Chen, Rong-Chang

2016-01-01

To analyze plasma myostatin levels and investigate their relationship with right ventricular (RV) function in patients with cor pulmonale secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study recruited 81 patients with advanced COPD and 40 age-matched controls. The patients were divided into two groups: those with cor pulmonale and those without. Echocardiography was used to evaluate RV function and morphology, and the value of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) less than 16 mm was considered RV dysfunction. Plasma myostatin levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were analyzed as a comparison of myostatin. The data detected cor pulmonale in 39/81 patients, with the mean value of TAPSE of 14.3 mm. Plasma myostatin levels (ng/mL) were significantly higher in patients with cor pulmonale (16.68 ± 2.95) than in those without (13.56 ± 3.09), and much higher than in controls (8.79±2.79), with each p<0.01. Significant differences were also found in plasma BNP levels among the three groups (p<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis suggested that myostatin levels were significantly correlated with the values of TAPSE and RV myocardium performance index among the COPD patients, and that BNP levels were significantly correlated only with systolic pulmonary arterial pressure, with each p<0.05. Plasma myostatin levels are increased in COPD patients who have cor pulmonale. Stronger correlations of plasma myostatin levels with echocardiographic indexes of the right heart suggest that myostatin might be superior to BNP in the early diagnosis of cor pulmonale in COPD.

Higher Plasma Myostatin Levels in Cor Pulmonale Secondary to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

PubMed Central

Ju, Chun-rong; Chen, Miao; Zhang, Jian-heng; Lin, Zhi-ya; Chen, Rong-chang

2016-01-01

Objective To analyze plasma myostatin levels and investigate their relationship with right ventricular (RV) function in patients with cor pulmonale secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods The study recruited 81 patients with advanced COPD and 40 age-matched controls. The patients were divided into two groups: those with cor pulmonale and those without. Echocardiography was used to evaluate RV function and morphology, and the value of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) less than 16 mm was considered RV dysfunction. Plasma myostatin levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were analyzed as a comparison of myostatin. Results The data detected cor pulmonale in 39/81 patients, with the mean value of TAPSE of 14.3 mm. Plasma myostatin levels (ng/mL) were significantly higher in patients with cor pulmonale (16.68 ± 2.95) than in those without (13.56 ± 3.09), and much higher than in controls (8.79±2.79), with each p<0.01. Significant differences were also found in plasma BNP levels among the three groups (p<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis suggested that myostatin levels were significantly correlated with the values of TAPSE and RV myocardium performance index among the COPD patients, and that BNP levels were significantly correlated only with systolic pulmonary arterial pressure, with each p<0.05. Conclusions Plasma myostatin levels are increased in COPD patients who have cor pulmonale. Stronger correlations of plasma myostatin levels with echocardiographic indexes of the right heart suggest that myostatin might be superior to BNP in the early diagnosis of cor pulmonale in COPD. PMID:26998756

Validation of birth outcomes from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS): population-based analysis from the Massachusetts Outcome Study of Assisted Reproductive Technology (MOSART).

PubMed

Stern, Judy E; Gopal, Daksha; Liberman, Rebecca F; Anderka, Marlene; Kotelchuck, Milton; Luke, Barbara

2016-09-01

To assess the validity of outcome data reported to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS) compared with data from vital records and the birth defects registry in Massachusetts. Longitudinal cohort. Not applicable. A total of 342,035 live births and fetal deaths from Massachusetts mothers giving birth in the state from July 1, 2004, to December 31, 2008; 9,092 births and fetal deaths were from mothers who had conceived with the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and whose cycle data had been reported to the SART CORS. Not applicable. Percentage agreement between maternal race and ethnicity, delivery outcome (live birth or fetal death), plurality (singleton, twin, or triplet+), delivery date, and singleton birth weight reported in the SART CORS versus vital records; sensitivity and specificity for birth defects among singletons as reported in the SART CORS versus the Massachusetts Birth Defects Monitoring Program (BDMP). There was >95% agreement between the SART CORS and vital records for fields of maternal race/ethnicity, live birth/fetal death, and plurality; birth outcome date was within 1 day with 94.9% agreement and birth weight was within 100 g with 89.6% agreement. In contrast, sensitivity for report of any birth defect was 38.6%, with a range of 18.4%-50.0%, for specific birth defect categories. Although most SART CORS outcome fields are accurately reported, birth defect variables showed poor sensitivity compared with the gold standard data from the BDMP. We suggest that reporting of birth defects be discontinued. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Disordered Cold Regulated15 Proteins Protect Chloroplast Membranes during Freezing through Binding and Folding, But Do Not Stabilize Chloroplast Enzymes in Vivo1[W][OPEN

PubMed Central

Thalhammer, Anja; Bryant, Gary; Sulpice, Ronan; Hincha, Dirk K.

2014-01-01

Freezing can severely damage plants, limiting geographical distribution of natural populations and leading to major agronomical losses. Plants native to cold climates acquire increased freezing tolerance during exposure to low nonfreezing temperatures in a process termed cold acclimation. This involves many adaptative responses, including global changes in metabolite content and gene expression, and the accumulation of cold-regulated (COR) proteins, whose functions are largely unknown. Here we report that the chloroplast proteins COR15A and COR15B are necessary for full cold acclimation in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). They protect cell membranes, as indicated by electrolyte leakage and chlorophyll fluorescence measurements. Recombinant COR15 proteins stabilize lactate dehydrogenase during freezing in vitro. However, a transgenic approach shows that they have no influence on the stability of selected plastidic enzymes in vivo, although cold acclimation results in increased enzyme stability. This indicates that enzymes are stabilized by other mechanisms. Recombinant COR15 proteins are disordered in water, but fold into amphipathic α-helices at high osmolyte concentrations in the presence of membranes, a condition mimicking molecular crowding induced by dehydration during freezing. X-ray scattering experiments indicate protein-membrane interactions specifically under such crowding conditions. The COR15-membrane interactions lead to liposome stabilization during freezing. Collectively, our data demonstrate the requirement for COR15 accumulation for full cold acclimation of Arabidopsis. The function of these intrinsically disordered proteins is the stabilization of chloroplast membranes during freezing through a folding and binding mechanism, but not the stabilization of chloroplastic enzymes. This indicates a high functional specificity of these disordered plant proteins. PMID:25096979

Molecular Recognition Profiles and Clinical Patterns of PR-10 Sensitization in a Birch-Free Mediterranean Area.

PubMed

Scala, Enrico; Abeni, Damiano; Cecchi, Lorenzo; Guerra, Emma Cristina; Locanto, Maria; Pirrotta, Lia; Giani, Mauro; Asero, Riccardo

2017-01-01

The order Fagales represents an important cause of tree-pollen allergy in northern countries. We investigated the IgE recognition profiles, mutual relationships, and association with clinical symptoms of a panel of allergens belonging to the PR-10 family, the main proteins responsible for Fagales allergy (Act d 8, Aln g 1, Api g 1, Ara h 8, Bet v 1, Cor a 1.0101, Cor a 1.0401, Gly m 4, Mal d 1, and Pru p 1). A total of 526 PR-10-reactive subjects living in central and southern Italy were studied by ImmunoCAP-ISAC-112 microarray analysis. Overall, Bet v 1 reactivity was the most commonly (74%) observed among PR-10 proteins, but Cor a 1.0101 was the most prevalent in participants aged <6 years, and between 15 and 65 years. Overall, 26% of the PR-10-reactive persons were Bet v 1 negative, whilst 93.6% of the PR-10 polyreactive individuals were Bet v 1 positive. Among the 10 PR-10s evaluated, 100 combinations were recorded. The strongest association was observed between molecules with the highest sequence identities (Bet v 1 and Cor a 1.0101, Cor a 1.0401 or Aln g 1; Mal d 1 and Pru p 1). Bet v 1-, Cor a 1.0101-, and Aln g 1-specific IgE recognition was associated with respiratory symptoms, whilst Ara h 8, Cor a 1.0401, Gly m 4, Mal d 1, and Pru p 1 were selectively linked to an oral allergic syndrome. Testing IgE reactivity to a panel of PR-10s in a birch-free area discloses peculiar relationships between clinical phenotypes and sensitization profiles, allowing the identification of novel cluster patterns. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Adrenocortical reserves in hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Agbaht, Kemal; Gullu, Sevim

2014-02-01

Explicit data regarding the changes in adrenocortical reserves during hyperthyroidism do not exist. We aimed to document the capability (response) of adrenal gland to secrete cortisol and DHEA-S during hyperthyroidism compared to euthyroidism, and to describe factors associated with these responses. A standard-dose (0.25 mg/i.v.) ACTH stimulation test was performed to the same patients before hyperthyroidism treatment, and after attainment of euthyroidism. Baseline cortisol (Cor(0)), DHEA-S (DHEA-S(0)), cortisol binding globulin (CBG), ACTH, calculated free cortisol (by Coolen's equation = CFC), free cortisol index (FCI), 60-min cortisol (Cor(60)), and DHEA-S (DHEA-S(60)), delta cortisol (ΔCor), delta DHEA-S (ΔDHEA-S) responses were evaluated. Forty-one patients [22 females, 49.5 ± 15.2 years old, 32 Graves disease, nine toxic nodular goiter] had similar Cor(0), DHEA-S(0), CFC, FCI, and DHEA-S(60) in hyperthyroid and euthyroid states. Cor(60), ΔCor, and ΔDHEA-S were lower in hyperthyroidism. In four (10 %) patients the peak ACTH-stimulated cortisol values were lower than 18 μg/dL. When the test repeated after attainment of euthyroidism, all of the patients had normal cortisol response. Regression analysis demonstrated an independent association of Cor(60) with free T3 in hyperthyroidism. However, the predictors of CFC, FCI, and DHEA-S levels were serum creatinine levels in hyperthyroidism, and both creatinine and transaminase levels in euthyroidism. ACTH-stimulated peak cortisol, delta cortisol, and delta DHEA-S levels are decreased during hyperthyroidism, probably due to increased turnover. Since about 10 % of the subjects with hyperthyroidism are at risk for adrenal insufficiency, clinicians dealing with Graves' disease should be alert to the possibility of adrenal insufficiency during hyperthyroid stage.

SlCOR413IM1: A novel cold-regulation gene from tomato, enhances drought stress tolerance in tobacco.

PubMed

Ma, Xiaocui; Wang, Guodong; Zhao, Weiyang; Yang, Minmin; Ma, Nana; Kong, Fanying; Dong, Xinchun; Meng, Qingwei

2017-09-01

Drought stress adversely affects plant growth, development, and productivity. Genes functioning in plant response to drought stress are essential for drought tolerance. In this study, SlCOR413IM1, a cold-regulated gene isolated from Solanum lycopersium, was transferred to Nicotiana tabacum to investigate its function under drought stress. The subcellular localisation of SlCOR413IM1-GFP fusion protein in Arabidopsis protoplasts suggested that SlCOR413IM1 is a chloroplast protein. Expression analyses revealed that SlCOR413IM1 responded to drought and cold stresses. Under drought stress, transgenic plants maintained the high maximum photochemical efficiency, net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and D1 protein content of photosystem II (PSII). Compared with wild-type (WT) plants, transgenic plants showed higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities and proline and soluble sugar content, which reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. However, the high SOD and APX activities in transgenic plants were independent of their transcription levels. Moreover, the transgenic plants exhibited better seed germination, water status and survival, as well as lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative electrical conductivity (REC) than WT plants under drought stress. Taken together, these data demonstrated that overexpression of SlCOR413IM1 enhanced drought stress tolerance in transgenic tobacco. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Differences in unilateral chest press muscle activation and kinematics on a stable versus unstable surface while holding one versus two dumbbells

PubMed Central

Patterson, Jeffrey M.; Oppenheimer, Nicole E.; Feser, Erin H.

2015-01-01

Training the bench press exercise on a traditional flat bench does not induce a level of instability as seen in sport movements and activities of daily living. Twenty participants were recruited to test two forms of instability: using one dumbbell rather than two and lifting on the COR bench compared to a flat bench. Electromyography (EMG) amplitudes of the pectoralis major, middle trapezius, external oblique, and internal oblique were recorded and compared. Differences in range of motion (ROM) were evaluated by measuring an angular representation of the shoulder complex. Four separate conditions of unilateral bench press were tested while lifting on a: flat bench with one dumbbell, flat bench with two dumbbells, COR Bench with one dumbbell, and COR Bench with two dumbbells. The results imply that there are no differences in EMG amplitude or ROM between the COR bench and traditional bench. However, greater ROM was found to be utilized in the single dumbbell condition, both in the COR bench and the flat bench. PMID:26528421

[Gender differences in the relationship between long working hours and health status in Catalonia].

PubMed

Artazcoz, Lucía; Gutiérrez Vera, Anabel

2012-01-01

To analyze gender differences in the relationship of long working hours with type of contract, psychosocial risk factors and health status in Catalonia. Cross sectional study of a representative sample of the working population in Catalonia who worked up to 60 hours per week, interviewed in the 2005 I Survey of Working Conditions in Catalonia (1624 men and 1221 women). The analysis was conducted separately by sex and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted. The reference category was employees working 30-40 hours per week. In both sexes, working 41 to 60 hours per week was associated with non fixed term temporary contracts, low autonomy, low support from colleagues and high skill discretion. In addition, among women, they were also associated with high psychological demands. No relationship with self-perceived health status was observed, but working 41 to 60 hours a week was associated with job dissatisfaction in both sexes (crude odds ratio, 95% confidence intervals: cOR=1.52; 95%CI 1.05 to 2.18 for men; cOR=2.53; 95% CI 1.44 to 4.45 for women) and in women also with nervous disorders/depression (cOR=3.41; 95%CI 1.42 to 8.22). After adjustment for psychosocial risk factors, these associations disappeared among men but not in women. Long working hours are associated with non-fixed term temporary contracts and more psychosocial hazards, as well as with some health indicators, primarily among women. It is likely that the association with health status in women is partially explained by the sum of hours of paid and domestic and family work. Copyright belongs to the Societat Catalana de Seguretat i Medicina del Treball.

Health-related lifestyle behaviors among male and female rural-to-urban migrant workers in Shanghai, China.

PubMed

Yang, Hua; He, Fang; Wang, Tianhao; Liu, Yao; Shen, Yao; Gong, Jian; Dai, Wei; Zhou, Jing; Gu, Jie; Tu, Yimin; Wang, Tianying; Shen, Lei; Wu, Yumiao; Xia, Xiuping; Xu, Donghao; Pan, Zhigang; Zhu, Shanzhu

2015-01-01

Lifestyle behaviors significantly impact health, yet remain poorly defined in Chinese rural-to-urban migrants. In a cross-sectional study of health-related behaviors of 5484 rural-to-urban migrants who had worked in Shanghai for at least six months, we assessed the contribution of demographics and physical and mental health to lifestyle behaviors in male and female participants by multiple stepwise cumulative odds logistic regression. Respondents were 51.3% male. 9.9% exhibited abnormal blood pressure; 27.0% were overweight or obese; 11.2% reported abnormal mental health; 36.9% reported healthy lifestyle. Multiple stepwise cumulative odds logistic regression indicated that men working in manufacturing reported less unhealthy lifestyle than those in hospitality (cumulative odds ratio (COR) = 1.806, 95%CI 1.275-2.559) or recreation/leisure (COR = 3.248, 95%CI 2.379-4.435); and women working in manufacturing and construction reported less unhealthy lifestyle than those in all other sectors. Unhealthy lifestyle was associated with small workplaces for men (COR = 1.422, 95%CI 1.154-1.752), working more than 8 or 11 hours per day for women and men, respectively, and earning over 3500 RMB in women (COR = 1.618, 95%CI 1.137-2.303). Single women and women who had previously resided in three or more cities were more likely to report unhealthy lifestyle (COR = 2.023, 95%CI 1.664-2.461, and COR = 1.311, 95%CI 1.072-1.602, respectively). Abnormal mental status was also correlated with unhealthy lifestyle in men (COR = 3.105, 95%CI 2.454-3.930) and women (COR = 2.566, 95%CI 2.024-3.252). There were different risk factors of unhealthy lifestyle score in male and female rural-to-urban migrants, especially in number of cities experienced, salary, marital status, work place scale. Several demographic groups: employment sectors (e.g. hospitality and recreation/leisure), working conditions (e.g. long hours) and abnormal mental status were associated with unhealthy lifestyle behaviors in Chinese rural-to-urban migrants, and health interventions should be targeted to these groups.

Health-Related Lifestyle Behaviors among Male and Female Rural-to-Urban Migrant Workers in Shanghai, China

PubMed Central

Yang, Hua; He, Fang; Wang, Tianhao; Liu, Yao; Shen, Yao; Gong, Jian; Dai, Wei; Zhou, Jing; Gu, Jie; Tu, Yimin; Wang, Tianying; Shen, Lei; Wu, Yumiao; Xia, Xiuping; Xu, Donghao; Pan, Zhigang; Zhu, Shanzhu

2015-01-01

Background Lifestyle behaviors significantly impact health, yet remain poorly defined in Chinese rural-to-urban migrants. Methods In a cross-sectional study of health-related behaviors of 5484 rural-to-urban migrants who had worked in Shanghai for at least six months, we assessed the contribution of demographics and physical and mental health to lifestyle behaviors in male and female participants by multiple stepwise cumulative odds logistic regression. Results Respondents were 51.3% male. 9.9% exhibited abnormal blood pressure; 27.0% were overweight or obese; 11.2% reported abnormal mental health; 36.9% reported healthy lifestyle. Multiple stepwise cumulative odds logistic regression indicated that men working in manufacturing reported less unhealthy lifestyle than those in hospitality (cumulative odds ratio (COR) = 1.806, 95%CI 1.275–2.559) or recreation/leisure (COR = 3.248, 95%CI 2.379–4.435); and women working in manufacturing and construction reported less unhealthy lifestyle than those in all other sectors. Unhealthy lifestyle was associated with small workplaces for men (COR = 1.422, 95%CI 1.154–1.752), working more than 8 or 11 hours per day for women and men, respectively, and earning over 3500 RMB in women (COR = 1.618, 95%CI 1.137–2.303). Single women and women who had previously resided in three or more cities were more likely to report unhealthy lifestyle (COR = 2.023, 95%CI 1.664–2.461, and COR = 1.311, 95%CI 1.072–1.602, respectively). Abnormal mental status was also correlated with unhealthy lifestyle in men (COR = 3.105, 95%CI 2.454–3.930) and women (COR = 2.566, 95%CI 2.024–3.252). Conclusions There were different risk factors of unhealthy lifestyle score in male and female rural-to-urban migrants, especially in number of cities experienced, salary, marital status, work place scale. Several demographic groups: employment sectors (e.g. hospitality and recreation/leisure), working conditions (e.g. long hours) and abnormal mental status were associated with unhealthy lifestyle behaviors in Chinese rural-to-urban migrants, and health interventions should be targeted to these groups. PMID:25710464

[LOCATION CHANGE OF ROTATION CENTER AFTER SINGLE SEGMENTAL CERVICAL DISC REPLACEMENT WITH ProDisc-C].

PubMed

Lou, Jigang; Liu, Hao; Rong, Xin; Gong, Quan; Song, Yueming; Li, Tao

2015-01-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of the single segmental cervical disc replacement with ProDisc-C, and to explore the location change of the flexion/extension center of rotation (COR) of the target level as well as its clinical significance. Between June 2010 and February 2012, 23 patients underwent single segmental cervical disc replacement with ProDisc-C, and the clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. Of 23 patients, 9 were male, and 14 were female with the age range from 27 to 65 years (mean, 45 years), and the disease duration ranged from 10 to 84 months (mean, 25 months). There were 15 patients with radiculopathy, 5 patients with myelopathy, and 3 patients with mixed cervical spondylosis. The involved segments were C4,5 in 5 cases, C5,6 in 14 cases, and C6,7 in 4 cases. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and neck disability index (NDI) were adopted to evaluate the effectiveness. Preoperative and Postoperative radiographic parameters, such as cervical overall range of motion (ROM), target segmental ROM, the adjacent segmental ROM, and intervertebral height were compared. Besides, the location changes of the COR of the target level were further analyzed by the alteration of its coordinates (COR-X, COR-Y), and the relationships between the location changes of the COR and the effectiveness or the radiographic results were analyzed. All the operations were completed successfully; 1 case had hoarseness after operation, which disappeared at 3 months after operation. All cases were followed up 18.3 months on average (range, 6-36 months). There was no device migration, loosening, subsidence, or fracture at last follow-up. The JOA score increased significantly and the NDI score decreased significantly at last follow-up when compared with preoperative scores (P < 0.05). No difference was found in the cervical overall ROM, target segmental ROM, the adjacent segmental ROM, and the COR-Y of the target level between pre-operation and last follow-up (P > 0.05); while the intervertebral height and the COR-X increased significantly (P < 0.05). The change of the COR-X had no obvious correlation with the postoperative JOA, NDI, and target segmental ROM (P > 0.05). According to whether the difference of the COR-X between pre- and post-operation was less than the average value 1.86 mm or not, the patients were divided into 2 groups; significant difference was shown in the postoperative target segmental ROM between 2 groups (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was found in the postoperative JOA, NDI, cervical overall ROM, adjacent segmental ROM, and the intervertebral height between 2 groups (P > 0.05). Single segmental cervical disc replacement with ProDisc-C can obtain satisfactory outcomes. The cervical overall ROM, target segmental ROM, and adjacent segmental ROM can be effectively maintained, and the intervertebral height is increased. The location of the flexion/extension COR of the target segment shifts forward after insertion of the ProDisc-C prosthesis, and the postoperative target segmental ROM becomes smaller as the distance of the displacement of the COR becomes greater.

Naltrexone/bupropion for the treatment of obesity and obesity with Type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Apovian, Caroline M

2016-03-01

Contrave(®) is a combination of naltrexone hydrochloride extended release and bupropion hydrochloride extended release for the treatment of obesity, and is used with lifestyle modification. Its safety and efficacy were assessed in four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 56-week Phase III clinical trials in 4536 adult subjects: COR-1, COR-II, COR-BMOD and COR-DM. All four studies demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful weight loss following up to 52 weeks of treatment with naltrexone/bupropion compared with placebo. The average weight loss from baseline across the four studies was approximately 11-22 lbs (5-9 kg). Results show the efficacy of Contrave for weight loss, as well as significant improvements in cardiometabolic markers. This review focuses on the four studies, their outcomes and the mechanism of action of Contrave.

Coronary calcium visualization using dual energy chest radiography with sliding organ registration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Di; Nye, Katelyn; Zhou, Bo; Gilkeson, Robert C.; Wilson, David L.

2016-03-01

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is the lead biomarker for atherosclerotic heart disease. We are developing a new technique to image CAC using ubiquitously ordered, low cost, low radiation dual energy (DE) chest radiography (using the two-shot GE Revolution XRd system). In this paper, we proposed a novel image processing method (CorCalDx) based on sliding organ registration to create a bone-image-like, coronary calcium image (CCI) that significantly reduces motion artifacts and improves CAC conspicuity. Experiments on images of a physical dynamic cardiac phantom showed that CorCalDx reduced 73% of the motion artifact area as compared to standard DE over a range of heart rates up to 90 bpm and varying x-ray radiation exposures. Residual motion artifact in the phantom CCI is greatly suppressed in gray level and area (0.88% of the heart area). In a Functional Measurement Test (FMT) with 20 clinical exams, image quality improvement of CorCalDx against standard DE (measured from -10 to +10) was significantly suggested (p<0.0001) by three radiologists for cardiac motion artifacts (7.2+/-2.1) and cardiac anatomy visibility (6.1+/-3.5). CorCalDx was always chosen best in every image tested. In preliminary assessments of 12 patients with 18 calcifications, 90% of motion artifact regions in standard DE results were removed in CorCalDx results, with 100% sensitivity of calcification detection, showing great potential of CorCalDx to improve CAC detection and grading in DE chest radiography.

Evidence-based medicine and contemporary certification: Analysis of the American Board of Vascular Medicine endovascular board examination.

PubMed

Slovut, David Paul; Gray, Bruce H; Saiar, Amin; Bates, Mark C

2017-08-01

Since 2005, the American Board of Vascular Medicine (ABVM) endovascular examination has been used to certify vascular practitioners. Annual rigorous review has confirmed it is psychometrically valid and reliable. However, the evidence basis underlying the examination items has not been studied systematically. The aim of this study was to adjudicate class of recommendation (COR) and level of evidence (LOE) for the 2015 ABVM endovascular examination and establish an additional feedback mechanism for examination improvement based on contemporary evidence-based guidelines. We performed a pooled consensus process to classify each of the 110 items in the 2015 ABVM endovascular examination by COR and LOE as detailed in the current guideline statements. We added additional categories for items that were not eligible for assignment using traditional current evidence-based metrics: 'COR X', cannot be determined, not applicable, or simple recognition; and 'LOE X', cannot be determined or not applicable. COR classifications were assigned in the following proportion: Class I=15%, Class II=40%, Class III=3%, COR X=42%. LOE classifications were assigned in the following proportion: Level A=12%, Level B=34%, Level C=32%, LOE X=22%. Our analysis showed that nearly half of the 2015 ABVM endovascular examination items were supported by strong scientific evidence or fact-based knowledge. COR and LOE analysis yielded notably different results. Use of alternate classification schema may be powerful tools for improving certification exams in healthcare.

In vivo evidence for homo- and heterodimeric interactions of Arabidopsis thaliana dehydrins AtCOR47, AtERD10, and AtRAB18.

PubMed

Hernández-Sánchez, Itzell E; Maruri-López, Israel; Graether, Steffen P; Jiménez-Bremont, Juan F

2017-12-06

Dehydrins (DHNs) are intrinsically disordered proteins that play central roles in plant abiotic stress responses; however, how they work remains unclear. Herein, we report the in planta subcellular localization of Arabidopsis thaliana DHNs AtCOR47, AtERD10, and AtRAB18 through GFP translational fusions. To explore the dimerization ability of the Arabidopsis acidic DHNs AtCOR47 and AtERD10, we conducted an in planta DHN binding assay using the Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) technique. Our analyses revealed homodimeric interactions for AtCOR47 and AtERD10; interestingly, heterodimeric associations also occurred with these DHNs, and these interactions were observed in the cytosol of tobacco cells. Furthermore, we evaluated whether Arabidopsis basic DHNs, such as AtRAB18, could also interact with itself and/or with AtCOR47 and AtERD10 in the BiFC system. Our data revealed homodimeric RAB18 complexes in the nucleus and cytosol, while heterodimeric associations between AtRAB18 and acidic DHNs occurred only in the cytosol. Finally, we demonstrated the presence of heterodimeric complexes among Arabidopsis AtCOR47, AtERD10, and AtRAB18 DHNs with their acidic ortholog the OpsDHN1 from Opuntia streptacantha; these heterodimeric interactions showed different subcellular distributions. Our results guide DHN research toward a new scenario where DHN/DHN oligomerization could be explored as a part of their molecular mechanism.

Multi-viewpoint Coronal Mass Ejection Catalog Based on STEREO COR2 Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vourlidas, Angelos; Balmaceda, Laura A.; Stenborg, Guillermo; Dal Lago, Alisson

2017-04-01

We present the first multi-viewpoint coronal mass ejection (CME) catalog. The events are identified visually in simultaneous total brightness observations from the twin SECCHI/COR2 coronagraphs on board the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory mission. The Multi-View CME Catalog differs from past catalogs in three key aspects: (1) all events between the two viewpoints are cross-linked, (2) each event is assigned a physics-motivated morphological classification (e.g., jet, wave, and flux rope), and (3) kinematic and geometric information is extracted semi-automatically via a supervised image segmentation algorithm. The database extends from the beginning of the COR2 synoptic program (2007 March) to the end of dual-viewpoint observations (2014 September). It contains 4473 unique events with 3358 events identified in both COR2s. Kinematic properties exist currently for 1747 events (26% of COR2-A events and 17% of COR2-B events). We examine several issues, made possible by this cross-linked CME database, including the role of projection on the perceived morphology of events, the missing CME rate, the existence of cool material in CMEs, the solar cycle dependence on CME rate, speeds and width, and the existence of flux rope within CMEs. We discuss the implications for past single-viewpoint studies and for Space Weather research. The database is publicly available on the web including all available measurements. We hope that it will become a useful resource for the community.

How does gestational diabetes affect postpartum contraception in nondiabetic primiparous women?

PubMed Central

Beydoun, Hind A.; Beydoun, May A.; Tamim, Hala

2009-01-01

Background: The aim of the study is to explore the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on postpartum contraception among nondiabetic primiparous women. Study Design: Secondary analyses of 2004–2005 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data from Michigan and Oregon. Methods: Analyses were performed on 2332 women, taking complex survey design into consideration. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (cOR; aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained using logistic regression analyses. Results: Postpartum use of hormonal (aOR=1.12, 95% CI: 0.68–1.83) and nonhormonal (aOR=1.18, 95% CI: 0.73–1.92) contraception were not influenced by GDM after controlling for confounders. Female sterilization was more frequently adopted (cOR=4.99, 95% CI: 1.13–22.17) and depomedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (cOR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.23–1.18), diaphragm/cervical cap/sponge (cOR=0.13, 95% CI: 0.016–0.95) and cervical ring (cOR=0.13, 95% CI: 0.017–0.98) were less frequently adopted by women reporting GDM diagnosis. Conclusion: With few exceptions, GDM does not appear to affect postpartum hormonal and nonhormonal contraception. PMID:19272498

Quality of Piped and Stored Water in Households with Children Under Five Years of Age Enrolled in the Mali Site of the Global Enteric Multi-Center Study (GEMS)

PubMed Central

Baker, Kelly K.; Sow, Samba O.; Kotloff, Karen L.; Nataro, James P.; Farag, Tamer H.; Tamboura, Boubou; Doumbia, Mama; Sanogo, Doh; Diarra, Drissa; O'Reilly, Ciara E.; Mintz, Eric; Panchalingam, Sandra; Wu, Yukun; Blackwelder, William C.; Levine, Myron M.

2013-01-01

Water, sanitation, and hygiene information was collected during a matched case-control study of moderate and severe diarrhea (MSD) among 4,096 children < 5 years of age in Bamako, Mali. Primary use of piped water (conditional odds ratio [cOR] = 0.45; 0.34–0.62), continuous water access (cOR = 0.30; 0.20–0.43), fetching water daily (cOR = 0.77; 0.63–0.96), and breastfeeding (cOR = 0.65; 0.49–0.88) significantly reduced the likelihood of MSD. Fetching water in > 30 minutes (cOR = 2.56; 1.55–4.23) was associated with MSD. Piped tap water and courier-delivered water contained high (> 2 mg/L) concentrations of free residual chlorine and no detectable Escherichia coli. However, many households stored water overnight, resulting in inadequate free residual chlorine (< 0.2 mg/L) for preventing microbial contamination. Coliforms and E. coli were detected in 48% and 8% of stored household water samples, respectively. Although most of Bamako's population enjoys access to an improved water source, water quality is often compromised during household storage. PMID:23836570

MiniCOR: A miniature coronagraph for an interplanetary CUBESAT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vourlidas, A.; Korendyke, C.; Liewer, P. C.; Cutler, J.; Howard, R.; Plunkett, S. P.; Thernisien, A. F.

2015-12-01

Coronagraphs occupy a unique place in Heliophysics, critical to both NAA and NOAA programs. They are the primary means for the study of the extended solar coorna and its short/long term activity. In addition coronagraphs are the only instrument that can image coronal mass ejections (CMEs) leaving the Sun and provide ciritical information for space weather forecasting. We descirbe a low cost miniaturzied CubeSat coronagraph, MiniCOR, designed to operate in deep space which will returndata with higher cadence and sensitivity than that from the SOHO/LASCO coronagraphs. MiniCOR is a six unit (6U) science craft with a tightly integrated, single instrument interplanetary flight system optiized for science. MiniCOR fully exploits recent technology advance in CubeSat technology and active pixel sensors. With a factor of 2.9 improvement in light gathering power over SOHO and quasi-continuous data collection, MiniCOR can observe the slow solar wind, CMEs and shocks with sufficient signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to open new windows on our understanding of the inner Heliosphere. An operating Minic'OR would prvide coornagraphic observations in support of the upcoming Solar Probe Plus (SPP) and Solar Orbiter (SO) missions.

Cognitive object recognition system (CORS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raju, Chaitanya; Varadarajan, Karthik Mahesh; Krishnamurthi, Niyant; Xu, Shuli; Biederman, Irving; Kelley, Troy

2010-04-01

We have developed a framework, Cognitive Object Recognition System (CORS), inspired by current neurocomputational models and psychophysical research in which multiple recognition algorithms (shape based geometric primitives, 'geons,' and non-geometric feature-based algorithms) are integrated to provide a comprehensive solution to object recognition and landmarking. Objects are defined as a combination of geons, corresponding to their simple parts, and the relations among the parts. However, those objects that are not easily decomposable into geons, such as bushes and trees, are recognized by CORS using "feature-based" algorithms. The unique interaction between these algorithms is a novel approach that combines the effectiveness of both algorithms and takes us closer to a generalized approach to object recognition. CORS allows recognition of objects through a larger range of poses using geometric primitives and performs well under heavy occlusion - about 35% of object surface is sufficient. Furthermore, geon composition of an object allows image understanding and reasoning even with novel objects. With reliable landmarking capability, the system improves vision-based robot navigation in GPS-denied environments. Feasibility of the CORS system was demonstrated with real stereo images captured from a Pioneer robot. The system can currently identify doors, door handles, staircases, trashcans and other relevant landmarks in the indoor environment.

Hector Field, Fargo North Dakota. Revised Uniform Summary of Surface Weather Observations (RUSSWO). Parts A-F.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

HOLRS I TSTMS C/OR RAIN L/OR HAIL WITH FOG C/OR uLO6ING C/OR A/LBST TOIAL ULT) I ORIZILL C/OP SLEET PRECIP PAZE SNOb SAND 10 0bC I RZZLE VIS ION JA. LE...AISARTEITItS TO t MILES ANT) GREATER THAN L rALT S. T1-.LBOPE TI J-L LOEUMN FOB BICIbILI TIES F,;ijAL T0 OR GREATER THAN 1D MALLS APPEAl BLANK. AS A "EL

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

Hunter, C.; Simpson, J.; Kovats, Z.

Sediments from Soda Creek were evaluated using the Sediment Quality Triad as part of investigations being conducted at the Monsanto Company plant in Soda Springs, Idaho. Information collected by an ecological assessment included metal concentrations (arsenic, cadmium, copper, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, and vanadium), benthic fauna community structure, and sediment toxicity. The collected sediments were composed of sandy-silt sized particles, with 2.4% to 9.1% organic carbon. Metal concentrations at sample stations were elevated relative to sediments collected from reference stations. For example, average cadmium concentrations ranged from 13 to 48 mg/kg at sample stations and 0.72 to 3.2 mg/kg atmore » reference stations; selenium concentrations ranged from 4.7 to 91 mg/kg at sample stations and 0.82 to 2.7 mg/kg at reference stations. Soda Creek has a relatively low flow gradient and the benthic fauna at both reference and sample stations was dominated by oligochaete worms and chironomid midge larvae. Taxonomic richness at individual sites ranged from 4.3 to 6.7 and 6 to 10.3 at reference and sample sites, respectively. There was no significant evidence of toxicity at any location sampled. Cluster analysis showed that the benthic community structure of many of the sample stations could not be distinguished from the reference stations. Canonical correlation analysis showed there was a significant relationship between benthic fauna and metal concentration, but there was not a consistent difference between sample and reference stations. For Soda Creek, local phenomena were more significant to benthic community structure than large-scale patterns of metal accumulation. Using the Triad approach, the authors concluded there has been no adverse effect of metal concentrations on the benthic community of Soda Creek.« less

Duration of exposure to multiple antibiotics is associated with increased risk of VRE bacteraemia: a nested case-control study.

PubMed

Gouliouris, Theodore; Warne, Ben; Cartwright, Edward J P; Bedford, Luke; Weerasuriya, Chathika K; Raven, Kathy E; Brown, Nick M; Török, M Estée; Limmathurotsakul, Direk; Peacock, Sharon J

2018-03-13

VRE bacteraemia has a high mortality and continues to defy control. Antibiotic risk factors for VRE bacteraemia have not been adequately defined. We aimed to determine the risk factors for VRE bacteraemia focusing on duration of antibiotic exposure. A retrospective matched nested case-control study was conducted amongst hospitalized patients at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH) from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2012. Cases who developed a first episode of VRE bacteraemia were matched 1:1 to controls by length of stay, year, specialty and ward type. Independent risk factors for VRE bacteraemia were evaluated using conditional logistic regression. Two hundred and thirty-five cases were compared with 220 controls. Duration of exposure to parenteral vancomycin, fluoroquinolones and meropenem was independently associated with VRE bacteraemia. Compared with patients with no exposure to vancomycin, those who received courses of 1-3 days, 4-7 days or >7 days had a stepwise increase in risk of VRE bacteraemia [conditional OR (cOR) 1.2 (95% CI 0.4-3.8), 3.8 (95% CI 1.2-11.7) and 6.6 (95% CI 1.9-22.8), respectively]. Other risk factors were: presence of a central venous catheter (CVC) [cOR 8.7 (95% CI 2.6-29.5)]; neutropenia [cOR 15.5 (95% CI 4.2-57.0)]; hypoalbuminaemia [cOR 8.5 (95% CI 2.4-29.5)]; malignancy [cOR 4.4 (95% CI 1.6-12.0)]; gastrointestinal disease [cOR 12.4 (95% CI 4.2-36.8)]; and hepatobiliary disease [cOR 7.9 (95% CI 2.1-29.9)]. Longer exposure to vancomycin, fluoroquinolones or meropenem was associated with VRE bacteraemia. Antimicrobial stewardship interventions targeting high-risk antibiotics are required to complement infection control procedures against VRE bacteraemia.

The Test–Retest Reliability of the Photopic Negative Response (PhNR)

PubMed Central

Tang, Jessica; Edwards, Thomas; Crowston, Jonathan G.; Sarossy, Marc

2014-01-01

Purpose The photopic negative response (PhNR) may be useful as a tool to monitor longitudinal change in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function. The goal was to assess PhNR test–retest reliability, and to estimate the amount of change between tests that is likely to be statistically significant for an individual test subject. Methods Photopic electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded from 49 visually normal subjects (mean age, 38.9 years; range, 21–72 years). Signals were acquired using Dawson-Trick-Litzkow (DTL) electrodes in response to red stimulus at four flash energies (0.5, 1, 2.25, 3 cd·s/m2) on a blue background (10 cd/m2). The PhNR amplitude was recorded from prestimulus baseline to trough (BT), prestimulus baseline to fixed time point (BF), and b-wave peak to trough (PT). The ratio of baseline PhNR to b-wave amplitude (BT/b-wave) was calculated. Reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) and coefficient of repeatability (CoR). Results Flash energy of 1.00 cd·s/m2 produced reliable, well-defined traces. At this stimulus, the a- and b-wave amplitudes were reproduced with moderate reliability (ICC, 0.62; CoR%, 90.0%; and ICC, 0.74; CoR%, 54.3%; respectively). For PhNR, the order from most to least reliable measurement was: PT (ICC, 0.64; CoR%, 59.1%), BT (ICC, 0.40; CoR%, 148.3%), and BF (ICC, 0.22; CoR%, 166.1%). The BT/b-wave did not improve reliability (ICC, 0.37; CoR%, 181.5). Conclusion The b-wave peak-to-PhNR trough amplitude produced the most reliable measurement. Translational Relevance A relatively large magnitude of change in PhNR amplitude is required to make clinical inferences about changes in RGC function. Refinement to the technique of acquisition and/or processing of the PhNR is recommended to improve reliability. PMID:25374770

An escalating dose study to assess the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of a Herpes Simplex Virus DNA vaccine, COR-1.

PubMed

Dutton, Julie L; Woo, Wai-Ping; Chandra, Janin; Xu, Yan; Li, Bo; Finlayson, Neil; Griffin, Paul; Frazer, Ian H

2016-12-01

This paper describes a single site, open-label Phase I clinical trial evaluating the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity in healthy volunteers of a herpes simplex polynucleotide vaccine that has previously been shown to enhance immunogenicity and protect against lethal herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) challenge in mice. Five escalating doses of the vaccine, COR-1, were given by intradermal injection to HSV-1 and 2 seronegative healthy individuals. COR-1 was found to be safe and well-tolerated; the only vaccine-related adverse events were mild. While vaccine-induced antibody responses were not detectable, cell-mediated immune responses to HSV-specific peptide groups were identified in 19 of the 20 subjects who completed the study, and local inflammation at the immunisation site was observed. This study indicates COR-1 has potential to be used as a therapeutic vaccine for HSV-2 infection.

Cosmic Origins Program Annual Technology Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pham, Bruce Thai; Neff, Susan Gale

2015-01-01

What is the Cosmic Origins (COR) Program? From ancient times, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered: Are we alone? How did the universe come to be? How does the universe work? COR focuses on the second question. Scientists investigating this broad theme seek to understand the origin and evolution of the universe from the Big Bang to the present day, determining how the expanding universe grew into a grand cosmic web of dark matter enmeshed with galaxies and pristine gas, forming, merging, and evolving over time. COR also seeks to understand how stars and planets form from clouds in these galaxies to create the heavy elements that are essential to life starting with the first generation of stars to seed the universe, and continuing through the birth and eventual death of all subsequent generations of stars. The COR Programs purview includes the majority of the field known as astronomy, from antiquity to the present.

Program Annual Technology Report: Cosmic Origins Program Office

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pham, Thai; Neff, Susan

2017-01-01

What is the Cosmic Origins (COR) Program? From ancient times, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered: Are we alone? How did the universe come to be? How does the universe work? COR focuses on the second question. Scientists investigating this broad theme seek to understand the origin and evolution of the universe from the Big Bang to the present day, determining how the expanding universe grew into a grand cosmic web of dark matter enmeshed with galaxies and pristine gas, forming, merging, and evolving over time. COR also seeks to understand how stars and planets form from clouds in these galaxies to create the heavy elements that are essential to life, starting with the first generation of stars to seed the universe, and continuing through the birth and eventual death of all subsequent generations of stars. The COR Programs purview includes the majority of the field known as astronomy.

Cor triatriatum dexter: A rare cause of cyanosis during neonatal period.

PubMed

Alghamdi, Mohammed Hussien

2016-01-01

Cor-triatriatum dexter is an extremely rare congenital heart defect in which there is complete persistence of the right valve of embryonic sinus venosus that results in partitioning of the right atrium into a smooth and trabeculated portion. The smooth portion receives venous blood from inferior vena cava, superior vena cava, and coronary sinus while the trabeculated portion contains the right atrial appendage and the opening of tricuspid valve. We report a 1-week-old child who presented with intermittent episodes of central cyanosis. Echocardiography, established, and bubble contrast study confirmed the diagnosis of an isolated cor-triatriatum dexter. The baby initially underwent an intervention by cardiac catheterization, which was unsuccessful in disrupting the membrane and re-direct the systemic venous flow to the right heart chambers. She subsequently had the cor-triatriatum dexter membrane resected via an uncomplicated open-heart surgery.

Gene Regulation and Signal Transduction in the ICE-CBF-COR Signaling Pathway during Cold Stress in Plants.

PubMed

Wang, Da-Zhi; Jin, Ya-Nan; Ding, Xi-Han; Wang, Wen-Jia; Zhai, Shan-Shan; Bai, Li-Ping; Guo, Zhi-Fu

2017-10-01

Low temperature is an abiotic stress that adversely affects the growth and production of plants. Resistance and adaptation of plants to cold stress is dependent upon the activation of molecular networks and pathways involved in signal transduction and the regulation of cold-stress related genes. Because it has numerous and complex genes, regulation factors, and pathways, research on the ICE-CBF-COR signaling pathway is the most studied and detailed, which is thought to be rather important for cold resistance of plants. In this review, we focus on the function of each member, interrelation among members, and the influence of manipulators and repressors in the ICE-CBF-COR pathway. In addition, regulation and signal transduction concerning plant hormones, circadian clock, and light are discussed. The studies presented provide a detailed picture of the ICE-CBF-COR pathway.

Characterization of PAHs within PM 10 fraction for ashes from coke production, iron smelt, heating station and power plant stacks in Liaoning Province, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kong, Shaofei; Shi, Jianwu; Lu, Bing; Qiu, Weiguang; Zhang, Baosheng; Peng, Yue; Zhang, Bowen; Bai, Zhipeng

2011-07-01

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons within PM 10 fraction of ashes from two coke production plants, one iron smelt plant, one heating station and one power plant were analyzed with GC-MS technique in 2009. The sum of 17 selected PAHs varied from 290.20 to 7055.72 μg/g and the amounts of carcinogenic PAHs were between 140.33 and 3345.46 μg/g. The most toxic ash was from the coke production plants and then from the iron smelt plant, coal-fired power plant and heating station according to BaP-based toxic equivalent factor (BaPeq) and BaP-based equivalent carcinogenic power (BaPE). PAHs profile of the iron smelt ash was significantly different from others with coefficient of divergence value higher than 0.40. Indicatory PAHs for coke production plants, heating station and coal-fired power plant were mainly 3-ring species such as Acy, Fl and Ace. While for iron smelt plant, they were Chr and BbF. Diagnostic ratios including Ant/(Ant + Phe), Flu/(Flu + Pyr), BaA/Chr, BbF/BkF, Ind/BghiP, IND/(IND + BghiP), BaP/BghiP, BaP/COR, Pyr/BaP, BaA/(BaA + Chr), BaA/BaP and BaP/(BaP + Chr) were calculated which were mostly different from other stacks for the iron smelt plant.

Tracking CMEs using data from the Solar Stormwatch project; observing deflections and other properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Shannon R.; Barnard, Luke A.; Scott, Christopher J.; Owens, Mathew J.; Wilkinson, Julia

2017-09-01

With increasing technological dependence, society is becoming ever more affected by changes in the near-Earth space environment caused by space weather. The primary driver of these hazards are coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Solar Stormwatch is a citizen science project in which volunteers participated in several activities which characterized CMEs in the remote sensing images from the Sun Earth Connection Coronal and Heliospheric Investigation (SECCHI) instrument package on the twin STEREO spacecraft. Here we analyze the results of the "Track-it-back" activity, in which CMEs were tracked back through the COR1, COR2, and EUVI images. Analysis of the COR1, COR2, and EUVI data together allows CMEs to be studied consistently throughout the whole field of view spanned by these instruments (out to 15 RS). A total of 4783 volunteers took part in this activity, creating a data set containing 23,801 estimates of CME timing, location, and size. We used these data to produce a catalogue of 41 CMEs, which is the first to consistently track CMEs through each of these instruments. We assess how the CME speeds, propagation directions, and widths vary as the CMEs propagate through the fields of view of the different imagers. In particular, we compare the observed CME deflections between the COR1 and COR2 fields of view to the separation between the CME source region and the heliospheric current sheet (HCS), demonstrating that in general, these CMEs appear to deflect toward the HCS, consistent with other modeling studies of CME propagation.

Clinical assessment of the efficacy of SpineCor brace in the correction of postural deformities in the course of idiopathic scoliosis.

PubMed

Plewka, Barbara; Sibiński, Marcin; Synder, Marek; Witoński, Dariusz; Kołodziejczyk-Klimek, Katarzyna; Plewka, Michał

2013-03-26

The objective of the study was to perform a clinical, comparative assessment of the degree of postural deformities before and after the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in patients treated with SpineCor brace compared to the control group. A group of 90 children with idiopathic scoliosis (including 74 girls) at the average age of 12.2 was subject to prospective observation. Average pre-treatment Cobb angle was 24.9° in the thoracic spine and 25.8° in the lumbar spine. The group actively treated with the SpineCor brace consisted of 45 children, while the control group consisted of the remaining 45 children with the natural course of the disease. Both groups did not differ significantly in terms of age, gender, height, body weight, Risser sign of skeletal maturity and baseline clinical and radiological parameters of scoliosis. Significant reduction of rib hump was observed upon 2-year SpineCor brace treatment (P=0.04) compared to the group treated by physiotherapy only (P=0.91). Similarly, improvement in lumbar prominence was observed in the actively treated group (P=0.009), with a trend towards worse results in the control group (P=0.07) In the group treated with the SpineCor brace, significant reduction in pectoral and hamstring muscle contractures as well as reduction in shoulder asymmetry and reduction in anterior and posterior vertical deviation were observed. Treatment using the SpineCor dynamic brace leads to a clinical improvement in posture, particularly to reduction in rib hump, lumbar prominence and muscular contractures.

Selection of housekeeping genes for use in quantitative reverse transcription PCR assays on the murine cornea.

PubMed

Ren, Shengwei; Zhang, Feng; Li, Changyou; Jia, Changkai; Li, Siyuan; Xi, Haijie; Zhang, Hongbo; Yang, Lingling; Wang, Yiqiang

2010-06-11

To evaluate the suitability of common housekeeping genes (HKGs) for use in quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) assays of the cornea in various murine disease models. CORNEAL DISEASE MODELS STUDIED WERE: 1) corneal neovascularization (CorNV) induced by suture or chemical burn, 2) corneal infection with Candida albicans or Aspergillus fumigatus by intrastromal injection of live spores, and 3) perforating corneal injury (PCI) in Balb/c mice or C57BL/6 mice. Expression of 8 HKGs (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase [GAPDH], beta-actin [ACTB], lactate dehydrogenase A [LDHA], ribosomal protein L5 [RPL5], ubiquitin C [UBC], peptidylprolyl isomerase A [PPIA], TATA-box binding protein [TBP1], and hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyl transferase [HPRT1]) in the cornea were measured at various time points by microarray hybridization or qRT-PCR and the data analyzed using geNorm and NormFinder. Microarray results showed that under the CorNV condition the expression stability of the 8 HKGs decreased in order of PPIA>RPL5>HPRT1>ACTB>UBC>TBP1>GAPDH>LDHA. qRT-PCR analyses demonstrated that expression of none of the 8 HKGs remained stable under all conditions, while GAPDH and ACTB were among the least stably expressed markers under most conditions. Both geNorm and NormFinder analyses proposed best HKGs or HKG combinations that differ between the various models. NormFinder proposed PPIA as best HKG for three CorNV models and PCI model, as well as UBC for two fungal keratitis models. geNorm analysis demonstrated that a similar model in different mice strains or caused by different stimuli may require different HKGs or HKG pairs for the best normalization. Namely, geNorm proposed PPIA and HRPT1 and PPIA and RPL5 pairs for chemical burn-induced CorNV in Balb/c and C57BL/6 mice, respectively, while UBC and HPRT1 and UBC and LDHA were best for Candida and Aspergillus induced keratitis in Balb/c mice, respectively. When qRT-PCR is designed for studies of gene expression in murine cornea, preselection of situation-specific reference genes is recommended. In the absence of knowledge about situation-specific HKGs, PPIA and UBC, either alone or in combination with HPRT1 or RPL5, can be employed.

Carbon Dioxide and Water Vapor Concentrations, Co-spectra and Fluxes from Latest Standardized Automated CO2/H2O Flux Systems versus Established Analyzer Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, G. G.; Kathilankal, J. C.; Begashaw, I.; Franzen, D.; Welles, J.; McDermitt, D. K.

2017-12-01

Spatial and temporal flux data coverage have improved significantly in recent years, due to standardization, automation and management of data collection, and better handling of the generated data. With more stations and networks, larger data streams from each station, and smaller operating budgets, modern tools are required to effectively and efficiently handle the entire process.These tools should produce standardized verifiable datasets, and provide a way to cross-share the standardized data with external collaborators to leverage available funding, and promote data analyses and publications. In 2015, new open-path and enclosed flux measurement systems1 were developed, based on established gas analyzer models2,3, with the goal of improving stability in the presence of contamination, refining temperature control and compensation, and providing more accurate gas concentration measurements. In 2017, the new open-path system was further refined to simplify hardware configuration, and to reduce power consumption and cost. Additionally, all new systems incorporate complete automated on-site flux calculations using EddyPro® Software4 run by a weatherized remotely-accessible microcomputer to provide standardized traceable data sets for fluxes and supporting variables. This presentation will describe details and results from the field tests of the new flux systems, in comparison to older models and reference instruments. References:1 Burba G., W. Miller, I. Begashaw, G. Fratini, F. Griessbaum, J. Kathilankal, L. Xu, D. Franz, E. Joseph, E. Larmanou, S. Miller, D. Papale, S. Sabbatini, T. Sachs, R. Sakai, D. McDermitt, 2017. Comparison of CO2 Concentrations, Co-spectra and Flux Measurements between Latest Standardized Automated CO2/H2O Flux Systems and Older Gas Analysers. 10th ICDC Conference, Switzerland: 21-25/08 2 Metzger, S., G. Burba, S. Burns, P. Blanken, J. Li, H. Luo, R. Zulueta, 2016. Optimization of an enclosed gas analyzer sampling system for measuring eddy covariance fluxes of H2O and CO2. AMT, 9: 1341-1359 3 Burba, G., 2013. Eddy Covariance Method for Scientific, Industrial, Agricultural and Regulatory Applications. LI-COR Biosciences: 331 pp. 4 Fratini, G., Mauder, M., 2014. Towards a consistent eddy-covariance processing: an intercomparison of EddyPro and TK3. AMT, 7: 2273-2281

Towards a first ground-based validation of aerosol optical depths from Sentinel-2 over the complex topography of the Alps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marinelli, Valerio; Cremonese, Edoardo; Diémoz, Henri; Siani, Anna Maria

2017-04-01

The European Space Agency (ESA) is spending notable effort to put in operation a new generation of advanced Earth-observation satellites, the Sentinel constellation. In particular, the Sentinel-2 host an instrumental payload mainly consisting in a MultiSpectral Instrument (MSI) imaging sensor, capable of acquiring high-resolution imagery of the Earth surface and atmospheric reflectance at selected spectral bands, hence providing complementary measurements to ground-based radiometric stations. The latter can provide reference data for validating the estimates from spaceborne instruments such as Sentinel-2A (operating since October 2015), whose aerosol optical thickness (AOT) values, can be obtained from correcting SWIR (2190 nm) reflectance with an improved dense dark vegetation (DDV) algorithm. In the Northwestern European Alps (Saint-Christophe, 45.74°N, 7.36°E) a Prede POM-02 sun/sky aerosol photometer has been operating for several years within the EuroSkyRad network by the Environmental Protection Agency of Aosta Valley (ARPA Valle d'Aosta), gathering direct sun and diffuse sky radiance for retrieving columnar aerosol optical properties. This aerosol optical depth (AOD) dataset represents an optimal ground-truth for the corresponding Sentinel-2 estimates obtained with the Sen2cor processor in the challenging environment of the Alps (complex topography, snow-covered surfaces). We show the deviations between the two measurement series and propose some corrections to enhance the overall accuracy of satellite estimates.

Cor triatriatum dexter, atrial septal defects, and pulmonary stenosis-a rare association.

PubMed

Simsek, Ziya; Koza, Yavuzer; Tas, Hakan

2014-04-01

Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is an extremely rare congenital anomaly in which the right atrium is divided into 2 chambers by a membrane. The estimated incidence of cor triatriatum has been reported as 0.1% of congenital cardiac malformations. The septation of the right atrium in the setting of CTD is the result of failed resorption of the right valve of the sinus venosus. This results in anterolateral and posteromedial portions of the divided right atrium. CTD can be diagnosed at any age, especially if it is incidentally discovered. © 2014, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

AbioCor totally implantable artificial heart. How will it impact hospitals?

PubMed

2002-09-01

Although heart transplantation remains the most effective treatment for severe heart failure, there are far fewer donor hearts available than there are patients who could benefit from them. One approach to addressing this shortfall is the total artificial heart, or TAH. To date, however, no TAH design has been able to achieve one of the ultimate goals of heart replacement: to allow a patient to live a reasonably normal life without being connected to external machinery. A new design, the AbioCor TAH developed by Abiomed Inc., may make this goal achievable. Thanks to a power system that transfers energy through the skin without the aid of wires, the AbioCor--currently undergoing clinical trials in the United States--allows the patient to be completely mobile. The lack of transcutaneous wires also eliminates the primary source of the infections that have plagued TAH patients in the past. Though it is not without drawbacks, the AbioCor could represent a crucial advance in TAH technology. In this Technology Overview, we describe the operation of the AbioCor and discuss its likely impact on hospitals if it is approved for marketing in the United States. We also discuss a related cardiac-support technology: ventricular assist devices (VADs), which may also be used for permanent cardiac support someday.

Some Experience Using SEN2COR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pflug, Bringfried; Bieniarz, Jakub; Debaecker, Vincent; Louis, Jérôme; Müller-Wilms, Uwe

2016-04-01

ESA has developed and launched the Sentinel-2A optical imaging mission that delivers optical data products designed to feed downstream services mainly related to land monitoring, emergency management and security. Many of these applications require accurate correction of satellite images for atmospheric effects to ensure the highest quality of scientific exploitation of Sentinel-2 data. Therefore the atmospheric correction processor Sen2Cor was developed by TPZ V on behalf of ESA. TPZ F and DLR have teamed up in order to provide the calibration and validation of the Level-2A processor Sen2Cor. Level-2A processing is applied to Top-Of-Atmosphere (TOA) Level-1C ortho-image reflectance products. Level-2A main output is the Bottom-Of-Atmosphere (BOA) corrected reflectance product. Additional outputs are an Aerosol Optical Thickness (AOT) map, a Water Vapour (WV) map and a Scene Classification (SC) map with Quality Indicators for cloud and snow probabilities. The poster will present some processing examples of Sen2Cor applied to Sentinel-2A data together with first performance investigations. Different situations will be covered like processing with and without DEM (Digital Elevation Model). Sen2Cor processing is controlled by several configuration parameters. Some examples will be presented demonstrating the influence of different settings of some parameters.

48 CFR 642.270 - Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). 642.270 Section 642.270 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF STATE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Contract Administration Services 642.270 Contracting...

Automatic near-real-time detection of CMEs in Mauna Loa K-Cor coronagraph images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, W. T.; St Cyr, O. C.; Burkepile, J.; Posner, A.

2017-12-01

A simple algorithm has been developed to detect the onset of coronal massejections (CMEs), together with an estimate of their speed, in near-real-timeusing images of the linearly polarized white-light solar corona taken by theK-Cor telescope at the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO). The algorithm usedis a variation on the Solar Eruptive Event Detection System (SEEDS) developedat George Mason University. The algorithm was tested against K-Cor data takenbetween 29 April 2014 and 20 February 2017, on days which the MLSO websitemarked as containing CMEs. This resulted in testing of 139 days worth of datacontaining 171 CMEs. The detection rate varied from close to 80% in 2014-2015when solar activity was high, down to as low as 20-30% in 2017 when activitywas low. The difference in effectiveness with solar cycle is attributed to thedifference in relative prevalance of strong CMEs between active and quietperiods. There were also twelve false detections during this time period,leading to an average false detection rate of 8.6% on any given day. However,half of the false detections were clustered into two short periods of a fewdays each when special conditions prevailed to increase the false detectionrate. The K-Cor data were also compared with major Solar Energetic Particle(SEP) storms during this time period. There were three SEP events detectedeither at Earth or at one of the two STEREO spacecraft where K-Cor wasobserving during the relevant time period. The K-Cor CME detection algorithmsuccessfully generated alerts for two of these events, with lead times of 1-3hours before the SEP onset at 1 AU. The third event was not detected by theautomatic algorithm because of the unusually broad width of the CME in positionangle.

Restoration of the centre of rotation in primary total hip arthroplasty: the influence of acetabular floor depth and reaming technique.

PubMed

Meermans, G; Doorn, J Van; Kats, J-J

2016-12-01

One goal of total hip arthroplasty is to restore normal hip anatomy. The aim of this study was to compare displacement of the centre of rotation (COR) using a standard reaming technique with a technique in which the acetabulum was reamed immediately peripherally and referenced off the rim. In the first cohort the acetabulum was reamed to the floor followed by sequentially larger reamers. In the second cohort the acetabulum was only reamed peripherally, starting with a reamer the same size as the native femoral head. Anteroposterior pelvic radiographs were analysed for acetabular floor depth and vertical and horizontal position of the COR. Horizontally, the mean medial displacement of the COR was 0.8 mm (standard deviation (sd) 1.4) in the peripheral remaing group and 5.0 mm (sd 3.30) in the standard reaming group (p < 0.001). Vertically, the mean superior displacement of the COR was 0.7 mm (sd 1.3) in the peripheral reaming group and 3.7 mm (sd 2.6) in the standard reaming group (p < 0.001). In the standard reaming group, there was a strong correlation between the pre-operative acetabular floor depth and displacement of the COR (p < 0.001). Reaming the acetabulum to the floor can lead to significant displacement of the COR medially and superiorly. This displacement is related to the pre-operative acetabular floor depth and cannot always be compensated by using a high offset stem. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1597-603. ©2016 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Ergogenic and metabolic effects of oral glucocorticoid intake during repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise.

PubMed

Zorgati, Houssem; Prieur, Fabrice; Vergniaud, Thomas; Cottin, François; Do, Manh-Cuong; Labsy, Zakaria; Amarantini, David; Gagey, Olivier; Lasne, Françoise; Collomp, Katia

2014-08-01

All systemically administered glucocorticoids (GC) are prohibited in-competition, because of the potential ergogenic effects. Although short-term GC intake has been shown to improve performance during submaximal exercise, literature on its impact during brief intense exercise appears to be very scant. The purpose of this study was to examine the ergogenic and metabolic effects of prednisone during repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise. In a double-blind randomized protocol, ten recreational male athletes followed two 1-week treatments (Cor: prednisone, 60mg/day or Pla: placebo). At the end of each treatment, they hopped on their dominant leg for 30s three times consecutively and then hopped until exhaustion, with intervals of 5min of passive recovery. Blood and saliva samples were collected at rest and 3min after each exercise bout to determine the lactate, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, TNF-alpha, DHEA and testosterone values. The absolute peak force of the dominant leg was significantly increased by Cor but only during the first 30-s hopping bout (p<0.05), whereas time to exhaustion was not significantly changed after Cor treatment vs Pla (Pla: 119.9±24.7; Cor: 123.1±29.5s). Cor intake lowered basal and end-exercise plasma interleukin-6 and saliva DHEA (p<0.01) and increased interleukin-10 (p<0.01), whereas no significant change was found in blood lactate and TNF-alpha or saliva testosterone between Pla and Cor. According to these data, short-term glucocorticoid intake did not improve endurance performance during repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise, despite the significant initial increase in absolute peak force and anti-inflammatory effect. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modulation of Signal Proteins: A Plausible Mechanism to Explain How a Potentized Drug Secale Cor 30C Diluted beyond Avogadro's Limit Combats Skin Papilloma in Mice.

PubMed

Khuda-Bukhsh, Anisur Rahman; Bhattacharyya, Soumya Sundar; Paul, Saili; Dutta, Suman; Boujedaini, Naoual; Belon, Philippe

2011-01-01

In homeopathy, ability of ultra-high diluted drugs at or above potency 12C (diluted beyond Avogadro's limit) in ameliorating/curing various diseases is often questioned, particularly because the mechanism of action is not precisely known. We tested the hypothesis if suitable modulations of signal proteins could be one of the possible pathways of action of a highly diluted homeopathic drug, Secale cornutum 30C (diluted 10(60) times; Sec cor 30). It could successfully combat DMBA + croton oil-induced skin papilloma in mice as evidenced by histological, cytogenetical, immunofluorescence, ELISA and immunoblot findings. Critical analysis of several signal proteins like AhR, PCNA, Akt, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, NF-κB and IL-6 and of pro-apoptotic proteins like cytochrome c, Bax, Bad, Apaf, caspase-3 and -9 revealed that Sec cor 30 suitably modulated their expression levels along with amelioration of skin papilloma. FACS data also suggested an increase of cell population at S and G2 phases and decrease in sub-G1 and G1 phages in carcinogen-treated drug-unfed mice, but these were found to be near normal in the Sec cor 30-fed mice. There was reduction in genotoxic and DNA damages in bone marrow cells of Sec Cor 30-fed mice, as revealed from cytogenetic and Comet assays. Changes in histological features of skin papilloma were noted. Immunofluorescence studies of AhR and PCNA also suggested reduced expression of these proteins in Sec cor 30-fed mice, thereby showing its anti-cancer potentials against skin papilloma. Furthermore, this study also supports the hypothesis that potentized homeopathic drugs act at gene regulatory level.

Accuracy assessment of BDS precision orbit determination and the influence analysis of site distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Ming; Guo, Jiming; Li, Zhicai; Zhang, Peng; Wu, Junli; Song, Weiwei

2017-04-01

BDS precision orbit determination is a key content of the BDS application, but the inadequate ground stations and the poor distribution of the network are the main reasons for the low accuracy of BDS precise orbit determination. In this paper, the BDS precise orbit determination results are obtained by using the IGS MGEX stations and the Chinese national reference stations，the accuracy of orbit determination of GEO, IGSO and MEO is 10.3cm, 2.8cm and 3.2cm, and the radial accuracy is 1.6cm,1.9cm and 1.5cm.The influence of ground reference stations distribution on BDS precise orbit determination is studied. The results show that the Chinese national reference stations contribute significantly to the BDS orbit determination, the overlap precision of GEO/IGSO/MEO satellites were improved by 15.5%, 57.5% and 5.3% respectively after adding the Chinese stations.Finally, the results of ODOP(orbit distribution of precision) and SLR are verified. Key words: BDS precise orbit determination; accuracy assessment；Chinese national reference stations；reference stations distribution；orbit distribution of precision

Functionalized Cobalt Triarylcorrole Covalently Bonded with Graphene Oxide: A Selective Catalyst for the Two- or Four-Electron Reduction of Oxygen.

PubMed

Tang, Jijun; Ou, Zhongping; Guo, Rui; Fang, Yuanyuan; Huang, Dong; Zhang, Jing; Zhang, Jiaoxia; Guo, Song; McFarland, Frederick M; Kadish, Karl M

2017-08-07

A cobalt triphenylcorrole (CorCo) was covalently bonded to graphene oxide (GO), and the resulting product, represented as GO-CorCo, was characterized by UV-vis, FT-IR, and micro-Raman spectroscopy as well as by HRTEM, TGA, XRD, XPS, and AFM. The electrocatalytic activity of GO-CorCo toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) was then examined in air-saturated 0.1 M KOH and 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 solutions by cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry using a rotating disk electrode and/or a rotating ring-disk electrode. An overall 4-electron reduction of O 2 is obtained in alkaline media while under acidic conditions a 2-electron process is seen. The ORR results thus indicate that covalently bonded GO-CoCor can be used as a selective catalyst for either the 2- or 4-electron reduction of oxygen, the prevailing reaction depending upon the acidity of the solution.

Dynamic changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis during growth hormone therapy in children with growth hormone deficiency: a multicenter retrospective study.

PubMed

Wang, Limin; Wang, Qian; Li, Guimei; Liu, Wendong

2015-09-01

The objective of this study was to investigate changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis after recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy. Subjects included children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). We conducted a multicenter, retrospective study that assessed 72 GHD patients treated with rhGH during 6 months. Patients were classified into two groups: isolated GHD (IGHD; n=20) and multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies (MPHD; n=52). The HPA axis and other hormones were evaluated at baseline and every 3 months. In the MPHD group, 32 patients had adrenocorticotrophic hormone deficiency and received hydrocortisone before rhGH therapy. In the other 20/52 MPHD patients, the cortisol (COR) level was significantly reduced after rhGH therapy. Moreover, 10 patients showed low COR levels. In the IGHD group, COR levels also decreased, but remained within the normal range. During rhGH therapy, COR levels were reduced, particularly in patients with MPHD. HPA axis should be monitored during rhGH therapy.

The commerce and crossover of resources: resource conservation in the service of resilience.

PubMed

Chen, Shoshi; Westman, Mina; Hobfoll, Stevan E

2015-04-01

Conservation of resources (COR) theory was originally introduced as a framework for understanding and predicting the consequences of major and traumatic stress, but following the work of Hobfoll and Shirom (1993), COR theory has been adopted to understanding and predicting work-related stress and both the stress and resilience that occur within work settings and work culture. COR theory underscores the critical role of resource possession, lack, loss and gain and depicts personal, social and material resources co-travelling in resource caravans, rather than piecemeal. We briefly review the principles of COR theory and integrate it in the crossover model, which provides a key mechanism for multi-person exchange of emotions, experiences and resources. Understanding the impact of resource reservoirs, resource passageways and crossover provides a framework for research and intervention promoting resilience to employees as well as to organizations. It emphasizes that the creation and maintenance of resource caravan passageways promote resource gain climates through resource crossover processes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Early Validation of Sentinel-2 L2A Processor and Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pflug, Bringfried; Main-Knorn, Magdalena; Bieniarz, Jakub; Debaecker, Vincent; Louis, Jerome

2016-08-01

Sentinel-2 is a constellation of two polar orbiting satellite units each one equipped with an optical imaging sensor MSI (Multi-Spectral Instrument). Sentinel-2A was launched on June 23, 2015 and Sentinel-2B will follow in 2017.The Level-2A (L2A) processor Sen2Cor implemented for Sentinel-2 data provides a scene classification image, aerosol optical thickness (AOT) and water vapour (WV) maps and the Bottom-Of-Atmosphere (BOA) corrected reflectance product. First validation results of Sen2Cor scene classification showed an overall accuracy of 81%. AOT at 550 nm is estimated by Sen2Cor with uncertainty of 0.035 for cloudless images and locations with dense dark vegetation (DDV) pixels present in the image. Aerosol estimation fails if the image contains no DDV-pixels. Mean difference between Sen2Cor WV and ground-truth is 0.29 cm. Uncertainty of up to 0.04 was found for the BOA- reflectance product.

Moon view period tabulations (with station masking) for Manned Space Flight Network stations, book 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gattie, M. M.; Williams, R. L.

1970-01-01

The times during which MSFN stations can view the moon are tabulated. Station view periods for each month are given. All times and dates refer to Greenwich Mean Time. AOS and LOS refer to the center of the moon at zero degrees elevation for moon rise and set, respectively.

Method of remotely estimating a rest or best lock frequency of a local station receiver using telemetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fielhauer, Karl B. (Inventor); Jensen, James R. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A system includes a remote station and a local station having a receiver. The receiver operates in an unlocked state corresponding to its best lock frequency (BLF). The local station derives data indicative of a ratio of the BLF to a reference frequency of the receiver, and telemeters the data to the remote station. The remote station estimates the BLF based on (i) the telemetered data, and (ii) a predetermined estimate of the reference frequency.

GNSS RTK-networks: The significance and issues to realize a recent reference coordinate system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umnig, Elke; Möller, Gregor; Weber, Robert

2014-05-01

The upcoming release of the new global reference frame ITRF2013 will provide high accurate reference station positions and station velocities at the mm- and mm/year level, respectively. ITRF users benefit from this development in various ways. For example, this new frame allows for embedding high accurate GNSS baseline observations to an underlying reference of at least the same accuracy. Another advantage is that the IGS products are fully consistent with this frame and therefore all GNSS based zero-difference positioning results (Precise Point Positioning (PPP)) will be aligned to the ITRF2013. Unfortunately the transistion to a new frame (or just to a new epoch) implies also issues in particular for providers and users of real time positioning services. Thus providers have to perform arrangements, such as the readjustment of the reference station coordinates and the update of the transformation parameters from the homogenous GNSS coordinate frame into the national datum. Finally providers have to inform their clients appropriately about these changes and significant adjustments. Furthermore the aspect of the continental reference frame has to be considered: In Europe the use of the continental reference system/reference frame ETRS89/ETRF2000 is, due to cross-national guidelines, recommend by most national mapping authorities. Subsequently GNSS post-processing applications are degraded by the concurrent use of the reference systems and reference frames, to which terrestrial site coordinates and satellite coordinates are aligned. In this presentation we highlight all significant steps and hurdles which have to be jumped over when introducing a new reference frame from point of view of a typical regional RTK-reference station network provider. This network is located in Austria and parts of the neighbouring countries and consists of about 40 reference stations. Moreover, we discuss the significance of permanently monitoring the stability of the reference network sites and the determination of station velocities/rates for geodynamical investigations.

Surprising Loss of Symmetry of Magnesium Channel CorA Upon Gating | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Magnesium ions (Mg2+) play essential roles in all living organisms. Bacteria and other prokaryotes rely upon the Mg2+-dependent channel CorA, which is composed of five identical subunits (A-E), to obtain these ions from their surroundings.

Exogenous Cortisol Administration; Effects on Risk Taking Behavior, Exercise Performance, and Physiological and Neurophysiological Responses

PubMed Central

Robertson, Caroline V.; Immink, Maarten A.; Marino, Frank E.

2016-01-01

Rationale: Exogenous cortisol is a modulator of behavior related to increased motivated decision making (Putman et al., 2010), where risky choices yield potentially big reward. Making risk based judgments has been shown to be important to athletes in optimizing pacing during endurance events (Renfree et al., 2014; Micklewright et al., 2015). Objectives: Therefore, the aims of this study were to examine the effect of 50 mg exogenous cortisol on neurophysiological responses and risk taking behavior in nine healthy men. Further to this, to examine the effect of exogenous cortisol on exercise performance. Methods: Using a double blind counterbalanced design, cyclists completed a placebo (PLA), and a cortisol (COR) trial (50 mg cortisol), with drug ingestion at 0 min. Each trial consisted of a rest period from 0 to 60 min, followed by a risk taking behavior task, a 30 min time trial (TT) with 5 × 30 s sprints at the following time intervals; 5, 11, 17, 23, and 29 min. Salivary cortisol (SaCOR), Electroencephalography (EEG) and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRs) were measured at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min post-ingestion. Glucose and lactate samples were taken at 0 and 60 min post-ingestion. During exercise, power output (PO), heart rate (HR), EEG, and NIRS were measured. SaCOR was measured 10 min post-exercise. Results: Cortisol increased risk taking behavior from baseline testing. This was in line with significant neurophysiological changes at rest and during exercise. At rest, SaCOR levels were higher (P < 0.01) in COR compared to PLA (29.7 ± 22.7 and 3.27 ± 0.7 nmol/l, respectively). At 60 min alpha slow EEG response was higher in COR than PLA in the PFC (5.5 ± 6.4 vs. −0.02 ± 8.7% change; P < 0.01). During the TT there was no difference in total km, average power or average sprint power, although Peak power (PP) achieved was lower in COR than PLA (465.3 ± 83.4 and 499.8 ± 104.3; P < 0.05) and cerebral oxygenation was lower in COR (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This is the first study to examine the effect of exogenous cortisol on exercise performance. These results are in line with previous research showing altered risk taking behavior following exogenous cortisol, however the altered behavior did not translate into changes in exercise performance. PMID:28082908

Exogenous Cortisol Administration; Effects on Risk Taking Behavior, Exercise Performance, and Physiological and Neurophysiological Responses.

PubMed

Robertson, Caroline V; Immink, Maarten A; Marino, Frank E

2016-01-01

Rationale: Exogenous cortisol is a modulator of behavior related to increased motivated decision making (Putman et al., 2010), where risky choices yield potentially big reward. Making risk based judgments has been shown to be important to athletes in optimizing pacing during endurance events (Renfree et al., 2014; Micklewright et al., 2015). Objectives: Therefore, the aims of this study were to examine the effect of 50 mg exogenous cortisol on neurophysiological responses and risk taking behavior in nine healthy men. Further to this, to examine the effect of exogenous cortisol on exercise performance. Methods: Using a double blind counterbalanced design, cyclists completed a placebo (PLA), and a cortisol (COR) trial (50 mg cortisol), with drug ingestion at 0 min. Each trial consisted of a rest period from 0 to 60 min, followed by a risk taking behavior task, a 30 min time trial (TT) with 5 × 30 s sprints at the following time intervals; 5, 11, 17, 23, and 29 min. Salivary cortisol (SaCOR), Electroencephalography (EEG) and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRs) were measured at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min post-ingestion. Glucose and lactate samples were taken at 0 and 60 min post-ingestion. During exercise, power output (PO), heart rate (HR), EEG, and NIRS were measured. SaCOR was measured 10 min post-exercise. Results: Cortisol increased risk taking behavior from baseline testing. This was in line with significant neurophysiological changes at rest and during exercise. At rest, SaCOR levels were higher ( P < 0.01) in COR compared to PLA (29.7 ± 22.7 and 3.27 ± 0.7 nmol/l, respectively). At 60 min alpha slow EEG response was higher in COR than PLA in the PFC (5.5 ± 6.4 vs. -0.02 ± 8.7% change; P < 0.01). During the TT there was no difference in total km, average power or average sprint power, although Peak power (PP) achieved was lower in COR than PLA (465.3 ± 83.4 and 499.8 ± 104.3; P < 0.05) and cerebral oxygenation was lower in COR ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: This is the first study to examine the effect of exogenous cortisol on exercise performance. These results are in line with previous research showing altered risk taking behavior following exogenous cortisol, however the altered behavior did not translate into changes in exercise performance.

Adaptive prospective ECG-triggered sequence coronary angiography in dual-source CT without heart rate control: Image quality and diagnostic performance.

PubMed

Pan, Chang-Jie; Qian, Nong; Wang, Tao; Tang, Xiao-Qiang; Xue, Yue-Jun

2013-02-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of using second generation dual-source CT (DSCT) to obtain high quality images and diagnostic performance and to reduce the radiation dose in adaptive prospective electrocardiography (ECG)-triggered sequence (CorAdSeq) CT coronary angiography (CTCA) without heart rate control. No prescan β-blockers were administered. Un-enhanced CT and CTCA with adaptive prospective CorAdSeq scanning without heart rate control were performed in 683 consecutive patients divided into two body mass index (BMI) groups: BMI <25 kg/m(2) (group A, n=412) and BMI ≥25 kg/m(2) (group B, n=271). The image quality and quantitative stenosis of all coronary segments with a diameter ≥1 mm were assessed. The mean heart rate (MHR), heart rate variability (HRV) and radiation dose values were recorded. In 426 cases, the diagnostic performance was evaluated using quantitative conventional coronary angiography as the reference standard. Diagnostic image quality was obtained in 98.5% of segments in group A and in 98.8% of segments in group B, with no significant differences between the groups. No correlations were observed between the image quality score and MHR or HRV (P=0.492, P=0.564, respectively). The effective radiation doses in groups A and B were 2.57±1.01 mSv and 6.36±1.88 mSv, respectively. The sensitivities and specificities of diagnosing coronary heart disease per patient were 99.6% and 97.8% in group A and 99.5% and 97.5% in group B, respectively (P>0.05). Adaptive prospective CorAdSeq scanning, without heart rate control, by second generation DSCT had a high image quality and diagnostic performance for coronary artery stenosis with lower radiation doses.

Placental weight in the first pregnancy and risk for preeclampsia in the second pregnancy: A population-based study of 186 859 women.

PubMed

Dypvik, Johanne; Larsen, Sandra; Haavaldsen, Camilla; Jukic, Anne M; Vatten, Lars J; Eskild, Anne

2017-07-01

To study whether placental weight in the first pregnancy is associated with preeclampsia in the second pregnancy. In this population-based study, we included all women with two consecutive singleton pregnancies reported to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway during 1999-2012 (n=186 859). Placental weight in the first pregnancy was calculated as z-scores, and the distribution was divided into five groups of equal size (quintiles). We estimated crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals for preeclampsia in the second pregnancy according to quintiles of placental weight z-scores in the first pregnancy. The 3rd quintile was used as the reference group. Among women without preeclampsia in the first pregnancy, 1.4% (2507/177 149) developed preeclampsia in the second pregnancy. In these women, the risk for preeclampsia in the second pregnancy was associated with placental weight in the first pregnancy in both lowest (crude odds ratio (cOR) 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI); 1.14-1.47) and highest quintile (cOR 1.20, 95% CI; 1.06-1.36). The risk associated with the highest quintile of placental weight was confined to term preeclampsia. Among women with preeclampsia in the first pregnancy, 15.7% (1522/9710) developed recurrent preeclampsia, and the risk for recurrent preeclampsia was associated with placental weight in lowest quintile in the first pregnancy (cOR 1.30, 95% CI; 1.10-1.55). Adjustment for interval between pregnancies, maternal diabetes, age, and smoking in the first pregnancy did not alter these estimates notably. Placental weight in the first pregnancy might help to identify women who could be at risk for developing preeclampsia in a second pregnancy. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Curriculum Online Review System: Proposing Curriculum with Collaboration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rhinehart, Marilyn; Barlow, Rhonda; Shafer, Stu; Hassur, Debby

2009-01-01

The Curriculum Online Review System (CORS) at Johnson County Community College (JCCC) uses SharePoint as a Web platform for the JCCC Curriculum Proposals Process. The CORS application manages proposals throughout the approval process using collaboration tools and workflows to notify all stakeholders. This innovative new program has changed the way…

Space Station reference configuration description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

The data generated by the Space Station Program Skunk Works over a period of 4 months which supports the definition of a Space Station reference configuration is documented. The data were generated to meet these objectives: (1) provide a focal point for the definition and assessment of program requirements; (2) establish a basis for estimating program cost; and (3) define a reference configuration in sufficient detail to allow its inclusion in the definition phase Request for Proposal (RFP).

Design and operation of a Loran-C time reference station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Putkovich, K.

1974-01-01

Some of the practical questions that arise when one decides to use Loran-C in a time reference system are explored. An extensive effort is made to provide basic, practical information on establishing and operating a reference station. Four areas were covered: (1) the design, configuration and operational concepts which should be considered prior to establishing and operating a reference station using Loran-C, (2) the options and tradeoffs available regarding capabilities, cost, size, versatility, ease of operation, etc., that are available to the designer, (3) what measurements are made, how they are made and what they mean, and (4) the experience the U.S. Naval Observatory Time Service Division has had in the design and operation of such stations.

Contribution of TIGA reprocessing to the ITRF densification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudenko, S.; Dähnn, M.; Gendt, G.; Brandt, A.; Nischan, T.

2009-04-01

Analysis of tide gauge measurements with the purpose of sea level change investigations requires a well defined reference frame. Such reference frame can be realized through precise positions of GPS stations located at or near tide gauges (TIGA stations) and analyzed within the IGS GPS Tide Gauge Benchmark Monitoring Pilot Project (TIGA). To tie this reference frame to the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF), one should process simultaneously GPS data from TIGA and IGS stations included in the ITRF. A time series of GPS station positions has been recently derived by reprocessing GPS data from about 400 GPS stations globally distributed covering totally time span from 1998 till 2008 using EPOS-Potsdam software developed at GFZ and improved in the recent years. The analysis is based on the use of IERS Conventions 2003, ITRF2005 as a priori reference frame, FES2004 ocean tide loading model, absolute phase centre variations for GPS satellite transmit and ground receive antennae and other models. About 220 stations of the solution are IGS ones and about 180 are TIGA GPS stations that are not IGS ones. The solution includes weekly coordinates of GPS stations, daily values of the Earth rotation parameters and their rates, as well as satellite antenna offsets. On the other hand, our new solution can contribute to the ITRF densification by providing positions of about 200 stations being not present in ITRF2005. The solution can be also used for the integration of regional frames. The paper presents the results of the analysis and the comparison of our solution with ITRF2005 and the solutions of other TIGA and IGS Analysis Centres.

Correlated natural transition orbital framework for low-scaling excitation energy calculations (CorNFLEx).

PubMed

Baudin, Pablo; Kristensen, Kasper

2017-06-07

We present a new framework for calculating coupled cluster (CC) excitation energies at a reduced computational cost. It relies on correlated natural transition orbitals (NTOs), denoted CIS(D')-NTOs, which are obtained by diagonalizing generalized hole and particle density matrices determined from configuration interaction singles (CIS) information and additional terms that represent correlation effects. A transition-specific reduced orbital space is determined based on the eigenvalues of the CIS(D')-NTOs, and a standard CC excitation energy calculation is then performed in that reduced orbital space. The new method is denoted CorNFLEx (Correlated Natural transition orbital Framework for Low-scaling Excitation energy calculations). We calculate second-order approximate CC singles and doubles (CC2) excitation energies for a test set of organic molecules and demonstrate that CorNFLEx yields excitation energies of CC2 quality at a significantly reduced computational cost, even for relatively small systems and delocalized electronic transitions. In order to illustrate the potential of the method for large molecules, we also apply CorNFLEx to calculate CC2 excitation energies for a series of solvated formamide clusters (up to 4836 basis functions).

Surface 12 lead electrocardiogram recordings using smart phone technology.

PubMed

Baquero, Giselle A; Banchs, Javier E; Ahmed, Shameer; Naccarelli, Gerald V; Luck, Jerry C

2015-01-01

AliveCor ECG is an FDA approved ambulatory cardiac rhythm monitor that records a single channel (lead I) ECG rhythm strip using an iPhone. In the past few years, the use of smartphones and tablets with health related applications has significantly proliferated. In this initial feasibility trial, we attempted to reproduce the 12 lead ECG using the bipolar arrangement of the AliveCor monitor coupled to smart phone technology. We used the AliveCor heart monitor coupled with an iPhone cellular phone and the AliveECG application (APP) in 5 individuals. In our 5 individuals, recordings from both a standard 12 lead ECG and the AliveCor generated 12 lead ECG had the same interpretation. This study demonstrates the feasibility of creating a 12 lead ECG with a smart phone. The validity of the recordings would seem to suggest that this technology could become an important useful tool for clinical use. This new hand held smart phone 12 lead ECG recorder needs further development and validation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of the Parkland-UT Southwestern Colonoscopy Reporting System (CoRS) for evidence-based colon cancer surveillance recommendations

PubMed Central

Gupta, Samir; Halm, Ethan A; Wright, Shaun; McCallister, Katharine; Bishop, Wendy; Santini, Noel; Mayorga, Christian; Agrawal, Deepak; Moran, Brett; Sanders, Joanne M; Singal, Amit G

2016-01-01

Objective Through colonoscopy, polyps can be identified and removed to reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. Appropriate use of surveillance colonoscopy, post polypectomy, is a focus of healthcare reform. Materials and Methods The authors developed and implemented the first electronic medical record–based colonoscopy reporting system (CoRS) that matches endoscopic findings with guideline-consistent surveillance recommendations and generates tailored results and recommendation letters for patients and providers. Results In its first year, CoRS was used in 98.6% of indicated cases. Via a survey, colonoscopists agreed/strongly agreed it is easy to use (83%), provides guideline-based recommendations (89%), improves quality of Spanish letters (94%), they would recommend it for other institutions (78%), and it made their work easier (61%), and led to improved practice (56%). Discussion CoRS’ widespread adoption and acceptance likely resulted from stakeholder engagement throughout the development and implementation process. Conclusion CoRS is well-accepted by clinicians and provides guideline-based recommendations and results communications to patients and providers. PMID:26254481

Can the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS) be used to accurately report clinic total reproductive potential (TRP)?

PubMed

Stern, Judy E; Hickman, Timothy N; Kinzer, Donna; Penzias, Alan S; Ball, G David; Gibbons, William E

2012-04-01

To assess whether total reproductive potential (TRP), the chance of a live birth from each fresh cycle (fresh cycle plus frozen transfers), could be calculated from the national Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS) database and whether information not available in SART CORS resulted in significant changes to the TRP calculation. Retrospective study using SART CORS and clinic data. Three assisted reproductive technology clinics. Women undergoing ART. None. Two- and three-year TRPs for 2005 and 2006 were calculated according to patient age at cycle start by linking fresh to frozen cycles up to first live birth. Clinic records were used to adjust for (remove) frozen cycles that used more than one fresh cycle as a source of embryos and for any embryos donated to other patients or research or shipped to another facility before a live birth. TRP was higher than fresh per-cycle rates for most ages at all clinics, although accuracy was compromised when there were fewer than 20 cycles per category. Two- and 3-year TRPs differed in only 2 of 24 calculations. Adjusted TRPs differed less than three percentage points from unadjusted TRPs when volume was sufficient. Clinic TRP can be calculated from SART CORS. Data suggest that calculations of clinic TRP from the national dataset would be meaningful. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparative Analysis of the Base Compositions of the Pre-mRNA 3′ Cleaved-Off Region and the mRNA 3′ Untranslated Region Relative to the Genomic Base Composition in Animals and Plants

PubMed Central

Li, Xiu-Qing

2014-01-01

The precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) three-prime cleaved-off region (3′COR) and the mRNA three-prime untranslated region (3′UTR) play critical roles in regulating gene expression. The differences in base composition between these regions and the corresponding genomes are still largely uncharacterized in animals and plants. In this study, the base compositions of non-redundant 3′CORs and 3′UTRs were compared with the corresponding whole genomes of eleven animals, four dicotyledonous plants, and three monocotyledonous (cereal) plants. Among the four bases (A, C, G, and U for adenine, cytosine, guanine, and uracil, respectively), U (which corresponds to T, for thymine, in DNA) was the most frequent, A the second most frequent, G the third most frequent, and C the least frequent in most of the species in both the 3′COR and 3′UTR regions. In comparison with the whole genomes, in both regions the U content was usually the most overrepresented (particularly in the monocotyledonous plants), and the C content was the most underrepresented. The order obtained for the species groups, when ranked from high to low according to the U contents in the 3′COR and 3′UTR was as follows: dicotyledonous plants, monocotyledonous plants, non-mammal animals, and mammals. In contrast, the genomic T content was highest in dicotyledonous plants, lowest in monocotyledonous plants, and intermediate in animals. These results suggest the following: 1) there is a mechanism operating in both animals and plants which is biased toward U and against C in the 3′COR and 3′UTR; 2) the 3′UTR and 3′COR, as functional units, minimized the difference between dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plants, while the dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous genomes evolved into two extreme groups in terms of base composition. PMID:24941005

Automatic near-real-time detection of CMEs in Mauna Loa K-Cor coronagraph images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, William T.; St. Cyr, Orville Chris; Burkepile, Joan; Posner, Arik

2017-08-01

A simple algorithm has been developed to detect the onset of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), together with an estimate of their speed, in near-real-time using images of the linearly polarized white-light solar corona taken by the K-Cor telescope at the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO). The algorithm used is a variation on the Solar Eruptive Event Detection System (SEEDS) developed at George Mason University. The algorithm was tested against K-Cor data taken between 29 April 2014 and 20 February 2017, on days which the MLSO website marked as containing CMEs. This resulted in testing of 139 days worth of data containing 171 CMEs. The detection rate varied from close to 80% in 2014-2015 when solar activity was high, down to as low as 20-30% in 2017 when activity was low. The difference in effectiveness with solar cycle is attributed to the difference in relative prevalance of strong CMEs between active and quiet periods. There were also twelve false detections during this time period, leading to an average false detection rate of 8.6% on any given day. However, half of the false detections were clustered into two short periods of a few days each when special conditions prevailed to increase the false detection rate. The K-Cor data were also compared with major Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) storms during this time period. There were three SEP events detected either at Earth or at one of the two STEREO spacecraft where K-Cor was observing during the relevant time period. The K-Cor CME detection algorithm successfully generated alerts for two of these events, with lead times of 1-3 hours before the SEP onset at 1 AU. The third event was not detected by the automatic algorithm because of the unusually broad width of the CME in position angle.

Sen2Cor for Sentinel-2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Main-Knorn, Magdalena; Pflug, Bringfried; Louis, Jerome; Debaecker, Vincent; Müller-Wilm, Uwe; Gascon, Ferran

2017-10-01

In the frame of the Copernicus programme, ESA has developed and launched the Sentinel-2 optical imaging mission that delivers optical data products designed to feed downstream services mainly related to land monitoring, emergency management and security. The Sentinel-2 mission is the constellation of two polar orbiting satellites Sentinel-2A and Sentinel-2B, each one equipped with an optical imaging sensor MSI (Multi-Spectral Instrument). Sentinel-2A was launched on June 23rd, 2015 and Sentinel-2B followed on March 7th, 2017. With the beginning of the operational phase the constellation of both satellites enable image acquisition over the same area every 5 days or less. To use unique potential of the Sentinel-2 data for land applications and ensure the highest quality of scientific exploitation, accurate correction of satellite images for atmospheric effects is required. Therefore the atmospheric correction processor Sen2Cor was developed by Telespazio VEGA Deutschland GmbH on behalf of ESA. Sen2Cor is a Level-2A processor which main purpose is to correct single-date Sentinel-2 Level-1C Top-Of-Atmosphere (TOA) products from the effects of the atmosphere in order to deliver a Level-2A Bottom-Of-Atmosphere (BOA) reflectance product. Additional outputs are an Aerosol Optical Thickness (AOT) map, a Water Vapour (WV) map and a Scene Classification (SCL) map with Quality Indicators for cloud and snow probabilities. Telespazio France and DLR have teamed up in order to provide the calibration and validation of the Sen2Cor processor. Here we provide an overview over the Sentinel-2 data, processor and products. It presents some processing examples of Sen2Cor applied to Sentinel-2 data, provides up-to-date information about the Sen2Cor release status and recent validation results at the time of the SPIE Remote Sensing 2017.

Oscillometric estimation of central blood pressure: validation of the Mobil-O-Graph in comparison with the SphygmoCor device.

PubMed

Weiss, Wolfgang; Gohlisch, Christopher; Harsch-Gladisch, Christl; Tölle, Markus; Zidek, Walter; van der Giet, Markus

2012-06-01

Hypertension is a major risk factor for a wide range of cardiovascular diseases and is typically identified by measuring blood pressure (BP) at the brachial artery. Although such a measurement may accurately determine diastolic BP, systolic BP is not reflected accurately. Current noninvasive techniques for assessing central aortic BP require additional recording of an arterial pressure wave using a high-fidelity applanation tonometer. Within one measurement cycle, the Mobil-O-Graph BP device uses brachial oscillometric BP waves for a noninvasive estimation of central BP. We therefore validated the Mobil-O-Graph against the SphygmoCor device, which is widely known as the commonly used approach for a noninvasive estimation of central BP. For each individual, we compared three readings of the central BP values obtained by the Mobil-O-Graph and SphygmoCor device consecutively. One hundred individuals (mean age 56.1 ± 15.4 years) were recruited for measurement.Differences between the central BP values of the test device and the SphygmoCor device were calculated for each measurement. The mean difference (95% confidence interval) for the estimated central systolic BP between both devices was -0.6 ± 3.7 mmHg. Comparison of the central BP values measured by the two devices showed a statistically significant linear correlation (R=0.91, P<0.0001). The mean between-method difference was 0.50 mmHg for central systolic BP estimation. The intrarater reproducibility between both the devices was also comparable. Bland and Altman analyses showed that the mean differences (95% confidence interval) between repeated measurements were 1.89 (0.42-3.36) mmHg and 1.36 (-0.16 to 2.83) mmHg for the SphygmoCor and the Mobil-O-Graph device, respectively. Thus, neither of these differences was statistically significantly different from 0. The limits of agreement were -16.34 to 19.73 and -15.23 to 17.17 mmHg for the SphygmoCor and the Mobil-O-Graph device, respectively. Oscillometric noninvasive estimation of central BP with the Mobil-O-Graph BP device is as effective as using the well-established SphygmoCor applanation tonometry device. In comparison, the Mobil-O-Graph combines the widespread benefits of brachial BP measurement and also provides central BP within one measurement.

Networked differential GPS system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sheynblat, Leonid (Inventor); Kalafus, Rudolph M. (Inventor); Loomis, Peter V. W. (Inventor); Mueller, K. Tysen (Inventor)

1994-01-01

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a worldwide network of differential GPS reference stations (NDGPS) that continually track the entire GPS satellite constellation and provide interpolations of reference station corrections tailored for particular user locations between the reference stations Each reference station takes real-time ionospheric measurements with codeless cross-correlating dual-frequency carrier GPS receivers and computes real-time orbit ephemerides independently. An absolute pseudorange correction (PRC) is defined for each satellite as a function of a particular user's location. A map of the function is constructed, with iso-PRC contours. The network measures the PRCs at a few points, so-called reference stations and constructs an iso-PRC map for each satellite. Corrections are interpolated for each user's site on a subscription basis. The data bandwidths are kept to a minimum by transmitting information that cannot be obtained directly by the user and by updating information by classes and according to how quickly each class of data goes stale given the realities of the GPS system. Sub-decimeter-level kinematic accuracy over a given area is accomplished by establishing a mini-fiducial network.

47 CFR 25.109 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... General § 25.109 Cross-reference. (a) Space and earth stations in the Amateur Satellite Service are licensed under 47 CFR part 97. (b) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile-Satellite Service transmitting in the 1626.5-1646.5 MHz band are subject to licensing under 47 CFR part 80. (c) Earth stations in...

47 CFR 25.109 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... General § 25.109 Cross-reference. (a) Space and earth stations in the Amateur Satellite Service are licensed under 47 CFR part 97. (b) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile-Satellite Service transmitting in the 1626.5-1646.5 MHz band are subject to licensing under 47 CFR part 80. (c) Earth stations in...

Mars rover/sample return mission requirements affecting space station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The possible interfaces between the Space Station and the Mars Rover/Sample Return (MRSR) mission are defined. In order to constrain the scope of the report a series of seven design reference missions divided into three major types were assumed. These missions were defined to span the probable range of Space Station-MRSR interactions. The options were reduced, the MRSR sample handling requirements and baseline assumptions about the MRSR hardware and the key design features and requirements of the Space Station are summarized. Only the aspects of the design reference missions necessary to define the interfaces, hooks and scars, and other provisions on the Space Station are considered. An analysis of each of the three major design reference missions, is reported, presenting conceptual designs of key hardware to be mounted on the Space Station, a definition of weights, interfaces, and required hooks and scars.

Atmospheric Effects on Radio Frequency (RF) Wave Propagation in a Humid, Near-Surface Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-01

additional IR temperature and Campbell water temperature probes, as well as a 3-D sonic anemometer, pyranometer , and LI-COR open path gas analyzer for...Zonen CNR-1 pyranometer . Lastly, the Campbell sonic anemometer (CSAT3) and LI- COR (CS7500) were extended 2.5 meters over the water from an

A Comparative Study of Two Types of Ball-on-Ball Collision

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Colin

2017-01-01

This paper describes three methods of measuring the coefficient of restitution (CoR) for two different types of ball-on-ball collision. The first collision type (for which two different CoR measurement procedures are described) is a static, hanging steel ball forming part of a Newton's cradle arrangement, which is then hit by its adjacent…

Transthoracic ultrasound guided balloon dilation of cor triatriatum dexter in 2 Rottweiler puppies.

PubMed

Birettoni, F; Caivano, D; Bufalari, A; Giorgi, M E; Miglio, A; Paradies, P; Porciello, F

2016-12-01

Balloon dilation was performed in two Rottweiler puppies with cor triatriatum dexter and clinical signs of ascites using transthoracic echocardiographic guidance. The dogs were positioned on a standard echocardiography table in right lateral recumbency, and guide wires and balloon catheters were imaged by echocardiographic views optimized to allow visualization of the defect. The procedures were performed successfully without complications and clinical signs were resolved completely in both cases. Guide wires and balloon catheters appeared hyperechoic on transthoracic echocardiography image and could be clearly monitored and guided in real-time. These two cases demonstrate that it is possible to perform balloon catheter dilation of cor triatriatum dexter under transthoracic guidance alone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Options for developing modernized geodetic datum for Nepal following the April 25, 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearson, Chris; Manandhar, Niraj; Denys, Paul

2017-09-01

Along with the damage to buildings and infrastructure, the April 25, 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha earthquake caused significant deformation over a large area of eastern Nepal with displacements of over 2 m recorded in the vicinity of Kathmandu. Nepal currently uses a classical datum developed in 1984 by the Royal (UK) Engineers in collaboration with the Nepal Survey Department. It has served Nepal well; however, the recent earthquakes have provided an impetus for developing a semi-dynamic datum that will be based on ITRF2014 and have the capacity to correct for tectonic deformation. In the scenario we present here, the datum would be based on ITRF2014 with a reference epoch set some time after the end of the current sequence of earthquakes. The deformation model contains a grid of the secular velocity field combined with models of the Gorkha Earthquake and the May 12 Mw7.3 aftershock. We have developed a preliminary velocity field by collating GPS derived crustal velocities from four previous studies for Nepal and adjacent parts of China and India and aligning them to the ITRF. Patches for the co-seismic part of the deformation for the Gorkha earthquake and the May 12, 2015 Mw 7.2 aftershock are based on published dislocation models. High order control would be a CORS network based around the existing Nepal GPS Array. Coordinates for existing lower order control would be determined by readjusting existing survey measurements and these would be combined with a series of new control stations spread throughout Nepal.

Centimeter-Level Robust Gnss-Aided Inertial Post-Processing for Mobile Mapping Without Local Reference Stations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hutton, J. J.; Gopaul, N.; Zhang, X.; Wang, J.; Menon, V.; Rieck, D.; Kipka, A.; Pastor, F.

2016-06-01

For almost two decades mobile mapping systems have done their georeferencing using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) to measure position and inertial sensors to measure orientation. In order to achieve cm level position accuracy, a technique referred to as post-processed carrier phase differential GNSS (DGNSS) is used. For this technique to be effective the maximum distance to a single Reference Station should be no more than 20 km, and when using a network of Reference Stations the distance to the nearest station should no more than about 70 km. This need to set up local Reference Stations limits productivity and increases costs, especially when mapping large areas or long linear features such as roads or pipelines. An alternative technique to DGNSS for high-accuracy positioning from GNSS is the so-called Precise Point Positioning or PPP method. In this case instead of differencing the rover observables with the Reference Station observables to cancel out common errors, an advanced model for every aspect of the GNSS error chain is developed and parameterized to within an accuracy of a few cm. The Trimble Centerpoint RTX positioning solution combines the methodology of PPP with advanced ambiguity resolution technology to produce cm level accuracies without the need for local reference stations. It achieves this through a global deployment of highly redundant monitoring stations that are connected through the internet and are used to determine the precise satellite data with maximum accuracy, robustness, continuity and reliability, along with advance algorithms and receiver and antenna calibrations. This paper presents a new post-processed realization of the Trimble Centerpoint RTX technology integrated into the Applanix POSPac MMS GNSS-Aided Inertial software for mobile mapping. Real-world results from over 100 airborne flights evaluated against a DGNSS network reference are presented which show that the post-processed Centerpoint RTX solution agrees with the DGNSS solution to better than 2.9 cm RMSE Horizontal and 5.5 cm RMSE Vertical. Such accuracies are sufficient to meet the requirements for a majority of airborne mapping applications.

Time evolution of an SLR reference frame

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angermann, D.; Gerstl, M.; Kelm, R.; Müller, H.; Seemüller, W.; Vei, M.

2002-07-01

On the basis of LAGEOS-1 and LAGEOS-2 data we computed a 10-years (1990-2000) solution for SLR station positions and velocities. The paper describes the data processing with the DGFI software package DOGS. We present results for station coordinates and their time variation for 41 stations of the global SLR network, and discuss the stability and time evolution of the SLR reference frame established in the same way. We applied different methods to assess the quality and consistency of the SLR results. The results presented in this paper include: (1) a time series of weekly estimated station coordinates; (2) a comparison of a 10-year LAGEOS-1 and LAGEOS-2 solution; (3) a comparison of 2.5-year solutions with the combined 10-year solution to assess the internal stability and the time evolution of the SLR reference frame; (4) a comparison of the SLR reference frame with ITRF97; and (5) a comparison of SLR station velocities with those of ITRF97 and NNR NUVEL-1A.

Environmental control/life support system for Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, C. W.; Heppner, D. B.; Schubert, F. H.; Dahlhausen, M. J.

1986-01-01

The functional, operational, and design load requirements for the Environmental Control/Life Support System (ECLSS) are described. The ECLSS is divided into two groups: (1) an atmosphere management group and (2) a water and waste management group. The interaction between the ECLSS and the Space Station Habitability System is examined. The cruciform baseline station design, the delta and big T module configuration, and the reference Space Station configuration are evaluated in terms of ECLSS requirements. The distribution of ECLSS equipment in a reference Space Station configuration is studied as a function of initial operating conditions and growth orbit capabilities. The benefits of water electrolysis as a Space Station utility are considered.

Durability test on irradiated rock-like oxide fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuramoto, K.; Nitani, N.; Yamashita, T.

2003-06-01

For a profitable use of Pu, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute has been promoting researches for once-through type fuels. The strategy consists of stable rock-like oxide fuel fabrication in conventional fuel facilities followed by almost complete Pu burning in LWR and disposal of chemically stable spent fuel without further processing. Because leach rates of hazardous nuclides, such as TRU and β-emitters, that have long half-lives, are very important for the evaluation of geological safety, leaching tests in deionized water at 363 K were performed with reference to the MCC-1 method. Five irradiated fuel pellets, a single phase fuel of a yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) containing UO 2 (U-YSZ), two fuels of U-YSZ particle dispersed in MgAl 2O 4 (SPI) or Al 2O 3 (COR) matrix, two homogeneous-blended fuels of U-YSZ and SPI or COR powders, were submitted to the tests. Stainless steel containers with Au coating and ethylene propylene diene monomer were used as leaching vessels and packing, respectively. The evaluated normalized leach rates of Zr, U and Pu were obviously lower than those of the other important elements and nuclides. Americium, Np and especially Y showed unexpectedly high evaluated normalized leach rates. The volatile elements, Cs and I, showed enhanced leaching within particle-dispersed type fuels because of crack formation around the particle.

Automatic Near-Real-Time Detection of CMEs in Mauna Loa K-Cor Coronagraph Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, W. T.; St. Cyr, O. C.; Burkepile, J. T.; Posner, A.

2017-10-01

A simple algorithm has been developed to detect the onset of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), together with speed estimates, in near-real time using linearly polarized white-light solar coronal images from the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory K-Cor telescope. Ground observations in the low corona can warn of CMEs well before they appear in space coronagraphs. The algorithm used is a variation on the Solar Eruptive Event Detection System developed at George Mason University. It was tested against K-Cor data taken between 29 April 2014 and 20 February 2017, on days identified as containing CMEs. This resulted in testing of 139 days' worth of data containing 171 CMEs. The detection rate varied from close to 80% when solar activity was high down to as low as 20-30% when activity was low. The difference in effectiveness with solar cycle is attributed to the relative prevalence of strong CMEs between active and quiet periods. There were also 12 false detections, leading to an average false detection rate of 8.6%. The K-Cor data were also compared with major solar energetic particle (SEP) storms during this time period. There were three SEP events detected either at Earth or at one of the two STEREO spacecraft when K-Cor was observing during the relevant time period. The algorithm successfully generated alerts for two of these events, with lead times of 1-3 h before the SEP onset at 1 AU. The third event was not detected by the automatic algorithm because of the unusually broad width in position angle.

The Influence of Preprocessing Steps on Graph Theory Measures Derived from Resting State fMRI

PubMed Central

Gargouri, Fatma; Kallel, Fathi; Delphine, Sebastien; Ben Hamida, Ahmed; Lehéricy, Stéphane; Valabregue, Romain

2018-01-01

Resting state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) is an imaging technique that allows the spontaneous activity of the brain to be measured. Measures of functional connectivity highly depend on the quality of the BOLD signal data processing. In this study, our aim was to study the influence of preprocessing steps and their order of application on small-world topology and their efficiency in resting state fMRI data analysis using graph theory. We applied the most standard preprocessing steps: slice-timing, realign, smoothing, filtering, and the tCompCor method. In particular, we were interested in how preprocessing can retain the small-world economic properties and how to maximize the local and global efficiency of a network while minimizing the cost. Tests that we conducted in 54 healthy subjects showed that the choice and ordering of preprocessing steps impacted the graph measures. We found that the csr (where we applied realignment, smoothing, and tCompCor as a final step) and the scr (where we applied realignment, tCompCor and smoothing as a final step) strategies had the highest mean values of global efficiency (eg). Furthermore, we found that the fscr strategy (where we applied realignment, tCompCor, smoothing, and filtering as a final step), had the highest mean local efficiency (el) values. These results confirm that the graph theory measures of functional connectivity depend on the ordering of the processing steps, with the best results being obtained using smoothing and tCompCor as the final steps for global efficiency with additional filtering for local efficiency. PMID:29497372

The Influence of Preprocessing Steps on Graph Theory Measures Derived from Resting State fMRI.

PubMed

Gargouri, Fatma; Kallel, Fathi; Delphine, Sebastien; Ben Hamida, Ahmed; Lehéricy, Stéphane; Valabregue, Romain

2018-01-01

Resting state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) is an imaging technique that allows the spontaneous activity of the brain to be measured. Measures of functional connectivity highly depend on the quality of the BOLD signal data processing. In this study, our aim was to study the influence of preprocessing steps and their order of application on small-world topology and their efficiency in resting state fMRI data analysis using graph theory. We applied the most standard preprocessing steps: slice-timing, realign, smoothing, filtering, and the tCompCor method. In particular, we were interested in how preprocessing can retain the small-world economic properties and how to maximize the local and global efficiency of a network while minimizing the cost. Tests that we conducted in 54 healthy subjects showed that the choice and ordering of preprocessing steps impacted the graph measures. We found that the csr (where we applied realignment, smoothing, and tCompCor as a final step) and the scr (where we applied realignment, tCompCor and smoothing as a final step) strategies had the highest mean values of global efficiency (eg) . Furthermore, we found that the fscr strategy (where we applied realignment, tCompCor, smoothing, and filtering as a final step), had the highest mean local efficiency (el) values. These results confirm that the graph theory measures of functional connectivity depend on the ordering of the processing steps, with the best results being obtained using smoothing and tCompCor as the final steps for global efficiency with additional filtering for local efficiency.

Performance of InsCor and three international scores in cardiac surgery at Santa Casa de Marília.

PubMed

Tiveron, Marcos Gradim; Bomfim, Helton Augusto; Simplício, Maycon Soto; Bergonso, Marcos Henriques; Matos, Milena Paiva Brasil de; Ferreira, Sergio Marques; Pelloso, Eraldo Antônio; Barros, Rubens Tofano de

2015-01-01

To apply and to compare the Society of Thoracic Surgery score (STS), EuroSCORE (Eurosc1), EuroSCORE II (Eurosc2) and InsCor (IS) for predicting mortality in patients undergoing to coronary artery bypass graft and/or valve surgery at the Santa Casa Marilia. The present study is a cohort. It is a prospective, observational, analytical and unicentric. We analyzed 562 consecutive patients coronary artery bypass graft and/or valve surgery, between April 2011 and June 2013 at the Santa Casa Marilia. Mortality was calculated for each patient through the scores STS, Eurosc1, Eurosc2 and IS. The calibration was calculated using the Hosmer Lemeshow test and discrimination by ROC curve. The hospital mortality was 4,6%. The calibration is generally adequate group P=0.345, P=0.765, P=0.272 and P=0.062 for STS, Eurosc1, Eurosc2, and IS respectively. The discriminatory power of STS score 0.649 (95% CI 0.529 to 0.770, P=0.012), Eurosc1 0.706 (95% CI 0.589 to 0.823, P ≤0.001), Eurosc2 was 0.704 (95% CI 0.590-0.818 P=0.001) and InsCor 0.739 (95% CI 0.638 to 0.839, P ≤0.001). We can say that overall, the InsCor was the best model, mainly in the discrimination of the sample. The InsCor showed good accuracy, in addition to being effective and easy to apply, especially by using a smaller number of variables compared to the other models.

Line differences in Cor/Lea and fructan biosynthesis-related gene transcript accumulation are related to distinct freezing tolerance levels in synthetic wheat hexaploids.

PubMed

Yokota, Hirokazu; Iehisa, Julio C M; Shimosaka, Etsuo; Takumi, Shigeo

2015-03-15

In common wheat, cultivar differences in freezing tolerance are considered to be mainly due to allelic differences at two major loci controlling freezing tolerance. One of the two loci, Fr-2, is coincident with a cluster of genes encoding C-repeat binding factors (CBFs), which induce downstream Cor/Lea genes during cold acclimation. Here, we conducted microarray analysis to study comprehensive changes in gene expression profile under long-term low-temperature (LT) treatment and to identify other LT-responsive genes related to cold acclimation in leaves of seedlings and crown tissues of a synthetic hexaploid wheat line. The microarray analysis revealed marked up-regulation of a number of Cor/Lea genes and fructan biosynthesis-related genes under the long-term LT treatment. For validation of the microarray data, we selected four synthetic wheat lines that contain the A and B genomes from the tetraploid wheat cultivar Langdon and the diverse D genomes originating from different Aegilops tauschii accessions with distinct levels of freezing tolerance after cold acclimation. Quantitative RT-PCR showed increased transcript levels of the Cor/Lea, CBF, and fructan biosynthesis-related genes in more freezing-tolerant lines than in sensitive lines. After a 14-day LT treatment, a significant difference in fructan accumulation was observed among the four lines. Therefore, the fructan biosynthetic pathway is associated with cold acclimation in development of wheat freezing tolerance and is another pathway related to diversity in freezing tolerance, in addition to the CBF-mediated Cor/Lea expression pathway. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Initial Binding of Ions to the Interhelical Loops of Divalent Ion Transporter CorA: Replica Exchange Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study

PubMed Central

Zhang, Tong; Mu, Yuguang

2012-01-01

Crystal structures of Thermotoga maritima magnesium transporter CorA, reported in 2006, revealed its homo-pentameric constructions. However, the structure of the highly conserved extracellular interhelical loops remains unsolved, due to its high flexibility. We have explored the configurations of the loops through extensive replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations in explicit solvent model with the presence of either Co(III) Hexamine ions or Mg2+ ions. We found that there are multiple binding sites available on the interhelical loops in which the negatively charged residues, E316 and E320, are located notably close to the positively charged ions during the simulations. Our simulations resolved the distinct binding patterns of the two kinds of ions: Co(III) Hexamine ions were found to bind stronger with the loop than Mg2+ ions with binding free energy −7.3 kJ/mol lower, which is nicely consistent with the previous data. Our study provides an atomic basis description of the initial binding process of Mg2+ ions on the extracellular interhelical loops of CorA and the detailed inhibition mechanism of Co(III) Hexamine ions on CorA ions transportation. PMID:22952795

Cosmic Origins (COR) Technology Development Program Overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werneth, Russell; Pham, B.; Clampin, M.

2014-01-01

The Cosmic Origins (COR) Program Office was established in FY11 and resides at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). The office serves as the implementation arm for the Astrophysics Division at NASA Headquarters for COR Program related matters. We present an overview of the Program’s technology management activities and the Program’s technology development portfolio. We discuss the process for addressing community-provided technology needs and the Technology Management Board (TMB)-vetted prioritization and investment recommendations. This process improves the transparency and relevance of technology investments, provides the community a voice in the process, and leverages the technology investments of external organizations by defining a need and a customer. Goals for the COR Program envisioned by the National Research Council’s (NRC) “New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics” (NWNH) Decadal Survey report includes a 4m-class UV/optical telescope that would conduct imaging and spectroscopy as a post-Hubble observatory with significantly improved sensitivity and capability, a near-term investigation of NASA participation in the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency/Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (JAXA/ISAS) Space Infrared Telescope for Cosmology and Astrophysics (SPICA) mission, and future Explorers.

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

Bein, B. M.; Temmer, M.; Veronig, A. M.

Using combined STEREO-A and STEREO-B EUVI, COR1, and COR2 data, we derive deprojected coronal mass ejection (CME) kinematics and CME ''true'' mass evolutions for a sample of 25 events that occurred during 2007 December to 2011 April. We develop a fitting function to describe the CME mass evolution with height. The function considers both the effect of the coronagraph occulter, at the beginning of the CME evolution, and an actual mass increase. The latter becomes important at about 10-15 R{sub Sun} and is assumed to mostly contribute up to 20 R{sub Sun }. The mass increase ranges from 2% tomore » 6% per R{sub Sun} and is positively correlated to the total CME mass. Due to the combination of COR1 and COR2 mass measurements, we are able to estimate the ''true'' mass value for very low coronal heights (<3 R{sub Sun }). Based on the deprojected CME kinematics and initial ejected masses, we derive the kinetic energies and propelling forces acting on the CME in the low corona (<3 R{sub Sun }). The derived CME kinetic energies range between 1.0-66 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 23} J, and the forces range between 2.2-510 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 14} N.« less

Evaluation of Integration Degree of the ASG-EUPOS Polish Reference Networks With Ukrainian GeoTerrace Network Stations in the Border Area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siejka, Zbigniew

2017-09-01

GNSS systems are currently the basic tools for determination of the highest precision station coordinates (e.g. basic control network stations or stations used in the networks for geodynamic studies) as well as for land, maritime and air navigation. All of these tasks are carried out using active, large scale, satellite geodetic networks which are complex, intelligent teleinformatic systems offering post processing services along with corrections delivered in real-time for kinematic measurements. Many countries in the world, also in Europe, have built their own multifunctional networks and enhance them with their own GNSS augmentation systems. Nowadays however, in the era of international integration, there is a necessity to consider collective actions in order to build a unified system, covering e.g. the whole Europe or at least some of its regions. Such actions have already been undertaken in many regions of the world. In Europe such an example is the development for EUPOS which consists of active national networks built in central eastern European countries. So far experience and research show, that the critical areas for connecting these networks are border areas, in which the positioning accuracy decreases (Krzeszowski and Bosy, 2011). This study attempts to evaluate the border area compatibility of Polish ASG-EUPOS (European Position Determination System) reference stations and Ukrainian GeoTerrace system reference stations in the context of their future incorporation into the EUPOS. The two networks analyzed in work feature similar hardware parameters. In the ASG-EUPOS reference stations network, during the analyzed period, 2 stations (WLDW and CHEL) used only one system (GPS), while, in the GeoTerrace network, all the stations were equipped with both GPS and GLONASS receivers. The ASG EUPOS reference station network (95.6%) has its average completeness greater by about 6% when compared to the GeoTerrace network (89.8%).

Coefficient of restitution of sports balls: A normal drop test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haron, Adli; Ismail, K. A.

2012-09-01

Dynamic behaviour of bodies during impact is investigated through impact experiment, the simplest being a normal drop test. Normally, a drop test impact experiment involves measurement of kinematic data; this includes measurement of incident and rebound velocity in order to calculate a coefficient of restitution (COR). A high speed video camera is employed for measuring the kinematic data where speed is calculated from displacement of the bodies. Alternatively, sensors can be employed to measure speeds, especially for a normal impact where there is no spin of the bodies. This paper compares experimental coefficients of restitution (COR) for various sports balls, namely golf, table tennis, hockey and cricket. The energy loss in term of measured COR and effects of target plate are discussed in relation to the material and construction of these sports balls.

Stratus Ocean Reference Station (20 deg. S, 85 deg. W) : Mooring Recovery and Deployment Cruise, R/V Ronald H. Brown Cruise 05-05, September 26, 2005-October 21, 2005

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-02-01

WHOI- 2006 -06 Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution 1930 Stratus Ocean Reference Station (20°S, 85°W) Mooring Recovery and Deployment Cruise RN Ronald...Environmental Technology Laboratory, 3University of Colorado, CIRES, 4University of Miami, 5University of Concepcion February 2006 Technical Report...Institution Woods Hole, MA 02543 UOP Technical Report 2006 -01 WHOI- 2006 -06 UOP- 2006 -01 Stratus Ocean Reference Station (20*S, 85*W) Mooring Recovery and

Novel Metal Cation Resistance Systems from Mutant Fitness Analysis of Denitrifying Pseudomonas stutzeri

PubMed Central

Vaccaro, Brian J.; Lancaster, W. Andrew; Thorgersen, Michael P.; Zane, Grant M.; Younkin, Adam D.; Kazakov, Alexey E.; Wetmore, Kelly M.; Deutschbauer, Adam; Arkin, Adam P.; Novichkov, Pavel S.; Wall, Judy D.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Metal ion transport systems have been studied extensively, but the specificity of a given transporter is often unclear from amino acid sequence data alone. In this study, predicted Cu2+ and Zn2+ resistance systems in Pseudomonas stutzeri strain RCH2 are compared with those experimentally implicated in Cu2+ and Zn2+ resistance, as determined by using a DNA-barcoded transposon mutant library. Mutant fitness data obtained under denitrifying conditions are combined with regulon predictions to yield a much more comprehensive picture of Cu2+ and Zn2+ resistance in strain RCH2. The results not only considerably expand what is known about well-established metal ion exporters (CzcCBA, CzcD, and CusCBA) and their accessory proteins (CzcI and CusF), they also reveal that isolates with mutations in some predicted Cu2+ resistance systems do not show decreased fitness relative to the wild type when exposed to Cu2+. In addition, new genes are identified that have no known connection to Zn2+ (corB, corC, Psest_3226, Psest_3322, and Psest_0618) or Cu2+ resistance (Mrp antiporter subunit gene, Psest_2850, and Psest_0584) but are crucial for resistance to these metal cations. Growth of individual deletion mutants lacking corB, corC, Psest_3226, or Psest_3322 confirmed the observed Zn-dependent phenotypes. Notably, to our knowledge, this is the first time a bacterial homolog of TMEM165, a human gene responsible for a congenital glycosylation disorder, has been deleted and the resulting strain characterized. Finally, the fitness values indicate Cu2+- and Zn2+-based inhibition of nitrite reductase and interference with molybdenum cofactor biosynthesis for nitrate reductase. These results extend the current understanding of Cu2+ and Zn2+ efflux and resistance and their effects on denitrifying metabolism. IMPORTANCE In this study, genome-wide mutant fitness data in P. stutzeri RCH2 combined with regulon predictions identify several proteins of unknown function that are involved in resisting zinc and copper toxicity. For zinc, these include a member of the UPF0016 protein family that was previously implicated in Ca2+/H+ antiport and a human congenital glycosylation disorder, CorB and CorC, which were previously linked to Mg2+ transport, and Psest_3322 and Psest_0618, two proteins with no characterized homologs. Experiments using mutants lacking Psest_3226, Psest_3322, corB, corC, or czcI verified their proposed functions, which will enable future studies of these little-characterized zinc resistance determinants. Likewise, Psest_2850, annotated as an ion antiporter subunit, and the conserved hypothetical protein Psest_0584 are implicated in copper resistance. Physiological connections between previous studies and phenotypes presented here are discussed. Functional and mechanistic understanding of transport proteins improves the understanding of systems in which members of the same protein family, including those in humans, can have different functions. PMID:27474723

Comparison of genome-wide gene expression in suture- and alkali burn-induced murine corneal neovascularization

PubMed Central

Jia, Changkai; Zhu, Wei; Ren, Shengwei; Xi, Haijie; Li, Siyuan

2011-01-01

Purpose Suture placement and alkali burn to the cornea are often used to induce inflammatory corneal neovascularization (CorNV) models in animals. This study compares the changes in genome-wide gene expression under these two CorNV conditions in mice. Methods CorNV were induced in Balb/c mice by three interrupted 10–0 sutures placed at sites about 1 mm from the corneal apex, or by alkali burns that were 2 mm in size in the central area of the cornea. At the points in time when neovascularization progressed most quickly, some eyeballs were subjected to histological staining to examine CorNV and inflammatory cells infiltration, and some corneas were harvested to extract mRNA for microarray assay. After normalization and filtering, the microarray data were subject to statistical analysis using Significance Analysis of Microarray software, and interested genes were annotated using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) program. The expression change of classical proangiogenic molecule like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and antiangiogenic molecule like pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) was further verified using western blotting. Results Suture placement induced CorNV in the areas between the suture and limbus, but did not affect the transparency of the yet unvasuclarized areas of the corneas. In contrast, alkali burn caused edema and total loss of transparency of the whole cornea. Histology showed that sutures only caused localized epithelial loss and inflammatory infiltration between the suture and limbus, but chemical burn depleted the whole epithelial layer of the central cornea and caused heavy cellular infiltration of the whole cornea. At day 5 after suture placement, 1,055 differentially expressed probes were identified, out of which 586 probes were upregulated and 469 probes were downregulated. At a comparable time point, namely on day 6 after the alkali burn to the corneas, 472 probes were upregulated and 389 probes were downregulated. Among these differentially expressed probes, a significant portion (530 probes in total, including 286 upregulated and 244 downregulated probes) showed a similar pattern of change in both models. Annotation (using DAVID) of the overlapping differential genes revealed that the significant enrichment gene ontology terms were “chemotaxis” and “immune response” for the upregulated genes, and “oxidation reduction” and “programmed cell death” for the downregulated genes. Some genes or gene families (e.g., S100A family or α-, β-, or γ-crystallin family) that had not been related to corneal pathogenesis or neovascularization were also revealed to be involved in CorNV. VEGF was upregulated and PEDF was stable as shown with western blotting. Conclusions Sutures and alkali burn to the corneas produced types of damage that affected transparency differentially, but gene profiling revealed similar patterns of changes in gene expression in these two CorNV models. Further studies of the primary genes found to be involved in CorNV will supplement current understanding about the pathogenesis of neovascularization diseases. PMID:21921991

Levels at gaging stations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kenney, Terry A.

2010-01-01

Operational procedures at U.S. Geological Survey gaging stations include periodic leveling checks to ensure that gages are accurately set to the established gage datum. Differential leveling techniques are used to determine elevations for reference marks, reference points, all gages, and the water surface. The techniques presented in this manual provide guidance on instruments and methods that ensure gaging-station levels are run to both a high precision and accuracy. Levels are run at gaging stations whenever differences in gage readings are unresolved, stations may have been damaged, or according to a pre-determined frequency. Engineer's levels, both optical levels and electronic digital levels, are commonly used for gaging-station levels. Collimation tests should be run at least once a week for any week that levels are run, and the absolute value of the collimation error cannot exceed 0.003 foot/100 feet (ft). An acceptable set of gaging-station levels consists of a minimum of two foresights, each from a different instrument height, taken on at least two independent reference marks, all reference points, all gages, and the water surface. The initial instrument height is determined from another independent reference mark, known as the origin, or base reference mark. The absolute value of the closure error of a leveling circuit must be less than or equal to ft, where n is the total number of instrument setups, and may not exceed |0.015| ft regardless of the number of instrument setups. Closure error for a leveling circuit is distributed by instrument setup and adjusted elevations are determined. Side shots in a level circuit are assessed by examining the differences between the adjusted first and second elevations for each objective point in the circuit. The absolute value of these differences must be less than or equal to 0.005 ft. Final elevations for objective points are determined by averaging the valid adjusted first and second elevations. If final elevations indicate that the reference gage is off by |0.015| ft or more, it must be reset.

An Analysis of Army Contract Administration With Regard to Contracting Officers Representatives

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

education/ training , communication, staff levels, oversight, and leadership support by comparing and contrasting Army COR contract administration...processes from a CONUS and OCONUS perspective. The results inform Army Contracting leadership about differences and discrepancies that exist in the training ...five common COR issues that need to be addressed: education/ training , communication, staff Levels, oversight, and leadership support. We found that

Differential Solutions Using Long-Range Dual-Frequency GPS Correction Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-09-01

coordinates the network of CORS sites to provide range measurement data to users in the United States. The data is available, via the Internet , to...of 3-dimensional positioning activities throughout the United States (NGS, 2002). CORS data is posted daily on the Internet from which the user may...KING AZ Scottsdale COSA 1998/258 -------- 5 sec H CofS AZ Tolleson

Magnesium Uptake by CorA Transporters Is Essential for Growth, Development and Infection in the Rice Blast Fungus Magnaporthe oryzae

PubMed Central

Reza, Md. Hashim; Shah, Hiral; Manjrekar, Johannes; Chattoo, Bharat B.

2016-01-01

Magnaporthe oryzae, the causative organism of rice blast, infects cereal crops and grasses at various stages of plant development. A comprehensive understanding of its metabolism and the implications on pathogenesis is necessary for countering this devastating crop disease. We present the role of the CorA magnesium transporters, MoAlr2 and MoMnr2, in development and pathogenicity of M. oryzae. The MoALR2 and MoMNR2 genes individually complement the Mg2+ uptake defects of a S. cerevisiae CorA transporter double mutant. MoALR2 and MoMNR2 respond to extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+ levels and their expression is elevated under Mg2+ scarce conditions. RNA silencing mediated knockdown of MoALR2 (WT+siALR2, Δmnr2+siALR2 and ALR2+MNR2 simultaneous silencing) drastically alters intracellular cation concentrations and sensitivity to metal ions. MoALR2 silencing is detrimental to vegetative growth and surface hydrophobicity of mycelia, and the transformants display loss of cell wall integrity. MoALR2 is required for conidiogenesis and appressorium development, and is essential for infection. Investigation of knockdown transformants reveal low cAMP levels and altered expression of genes encoding proteins involved in MoMps1 cell wall integrity and cAMP MoPmk1 driven MAP Kinase signaling pathways. In contrast to MoALR2 knockdowns, the MoMNR2 deletion (Δmnr2) shows increased sensitivity to CorA inhibitors as well as altered cation sensitivity, but has limited effect on surface hydrophobicity and severity of plant infection. Interestingly, MoALR2 expression is elevated in Δmnr2. Impairment of development and infectivity of knockdown transformants and altered intracellular cation composition suggest that CorA transporters are essential for Mg2+ homeostasis within the cell, and are crucial to maintaining normal gene expression associated with cell structure, signal transduction and surface hydrophobicity in M. oryzae. We suggest that CorA transporters, and especially MoALR2, constitute an attractive target for the development of antifungal agents against this pathogen. PMID:27416318

Importance of software version for measurement of arterial stiffness: Arteriograph as an example.

PubMed

Ring, Margareta; Eriksson, Maria J; Nyberg, Gunnar; Caidahl, Kenneth

2018-01-01

Current guidelines recommend the measurement of arterial stiffness in terms of aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) as an important cardio-vascular risk marker. Both aortic PWV and the aortic augmentation index (AIxao) can be measured using different techniques, e.g., the Arteriograph and SphygmoCor. A new version of the software for the Arteriograph (v. 3.0.0.1, TensioMed, Budapest, Hungary; Arteriograph II) is now available. We wanted to determine whether this improved software differs from the previous version (Arteriograph v. 1.9.9.12; Arteriograph I). We compared the estimated aortic PWV (ePWVao) and AIxao measured with both versions of Arteriograph software and analysed the agreement of these values with those measured by SphygmoCor (v. 7.01, AtCor Medical, Sydney, Australia). Eighty-seven subjects without known cardio-vascular disease (23 men and 64 women) aged 54.2 ± 8.7 years (mean ± standard deviation; range 33-68 years) were included in the study. Estimated PWVao and AIxao were measured by both Arteriograph and SphygmoCor. We compared Arteriograph I and Arteriograph II with each other and with SphygmoCor. Estimated PWVao measured by Arteriograph II was lower than that measured by Arteriograph I, while the AIxao was higher. Divergence in ePWVao values was especially noted above 9 m/s. Estimated PWVao measured by Arteriograph II (7.2 m/s, 6.6-8.0 [median, 25th-75th percentile]) did not differ from that measured by SphygmoCor (7.1 m/s, 6.7-7.9 [median, 25th-75th percentile]). However, the AIao measured by Arteriograph II was significantly higher (P < 0.001). Regularly upgraded software versions resulting from continuous technical development are needed for quality improvement of methods. However, the changes in software, even if the basic patented operational algorithm has not changed, may influence the measured values as shown in the present study. Therefore, attention should be paid to the software version of the method used when comparing arterial stiffness results in clinical settings or when performing scientific studies.

Mass spectrometric imaging of metabolites in kidney tissues from rats treated with furosemide.

PubMed

Jung, Jin Woo; Lee, Mi Suk; Choi, Hyo-Jung; Jung, Sunhee; Lee, Yu-Jung; Hwang, Geum-Sook; Kwon, Tae-Hwan

2016-06-01

In the kidney, metabolic processes are different among the cortex (COR), outer medulla (OM), and inner medulla (IM). Using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and imaging mass spectrometry (IMS), we examined the change of metabolites in the COR, OM, and IM of the rat kidney after furosemide treatment compared with vehicle-treated controls. Osmotic minipumps were implanted in male Sprague-Dawley rats to deliver 12 mg·day(-1)·rat(-1) of furosemide. Vehicle-treated (n = 14) and furosemide-treated (furosemide rats, n = 15) rats in metabolic cages received a fixed amount of rat chow (15 g·220 g body wt(-1)·day(-1) for each rat) with free access to water intake for 6 days. At day 6, higher urine output (32 ± 4 vs. 9 ± 1 ml/day) and lower urine osmolality (546 ± 44 vs. 1,677 ± 104 mosmol/kgH2O) were observed in furosemide rats. Extracts of COR, OM, and IM were analyzed by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry, where multivariate analysis revealed significant differences between the two groups. Several metabolites, including acetylcarnitine, betaine, carnitine, choline, and glycerophosphorylcholine (GPC), were significantly changed. The changes of metabolites were further identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF and IMS. Their spatial distribution and relative quantitation in the kidneys were analyzed by IMS. Carnitine compounds were increased in COR and IM, whereas carnitine and acetylcarnitine were decreased in OM. Choline compounds were increased in COR and OM but decreased in IM from furosemide rats. Betaine and GPC were decreased in OM and IM. Taken together, MALDI-TOF/TOF and IMS successfully provide the spatial distribution and relative quantitation of metabolites in the kidney. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Characterization, cloning and immunolocalization of a coronin homologue in Trichomonas vaginalis.

PubMed

Bricheux, G; Coffe, G; Bayle, D; Brugerolle, G

2000-06-01

On adhesion to host cells the flagellate Trichomonas vaginalis switches to an amoeboid form rich in actin microfilaments. We have undertaken the identification of actin-associated proteins that regulate actin dynamics. A monoclonal antibody 4C12 raised against a cytoskeletal fraction of T. vaginalis labeled a protein doublet at circa 50 kDa. These two bands were recognized by the antibody against Dictyostelium discoideum coronin. During cell extraction and actin polymerization, T. vaginalis coronin cosedimented with F-actin. By two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, the protein doublet was separated into two sets of isoforms covering two Ip zones around 6 and 7. By screening a T. vaginalis library with 4C12, two clones Cor 1 and Cor 2 were isolated. This gene duplicity is a particularity among unicellular organisms examined. The complete sequence of the gene Cor 1 encodes a 435-residue protein with a calculated molecular mass of 48 kDa and Ip of 5.58. The incomplete sequence Cor 2 was very similar but with a more basic calculated Ip than Cor 1 on the same region. T. vaginalis coronin had 50% similarity with the coronin family, possessing the five WD-repeats and a leucine zipper in its C-terminal part. Double immunofluorescence labeling showed that coronin mainly colocalized with actin at the periphery of the adherent amoeboid cells. However, coronin labeling displayed patches within a reticular array. Immunogold electron microscopy confirmed the coronin labeling in the actin-rich microfilamentous fringe beneath the plasma membrane, with accumulation in phagocytic zones and pseudopodial extensions. In T. vaginalis, one of the first emerging lineage of eukaryotes, coronin seems to play an important role in actin dynamics and may be a downstream target of a signaling mechanism for the cytoskeleton reorganization.

Electrophysiological characteristics and pharmacological sensitivity of two lines of human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes coming from two different suppliers.

PubMed

Goineau, Sonia; Castagné, Vincent

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) are increasingly used as preclinical tool for predicting drug-induced QT prolongation and arrhythmias. This study was conducted to assess the electrophysiological characteristics and the pharmacological sensitivity of two commercialized hiPSC-CMs. The baseline electrophysiological characteristics measured with a multi-electrode array (MEA) technology differ between Cor.4U and iCell 2 : higher beat rate (+32bpm) and shorter field potential duration (FPD, -201ms) for Cor.4U. The FPD lengthening after cisapride (100nM: +65% versus +18%), quinidine (10μM: +65% versus +31%), sotalol (30μM: +90% versus +47%) or flecainide (3μM: +76% versus +22%) application appeared earlier in iCell 2 as compared to Cor.4U. Arrhythmia occurrence also appeared earlier in iCell 2 as compared to Cor.4U for the 3 substances mentioned above. The FPD shortening recorded after verapamil or nifedipine application was similar in both hiPSC-CMs. In conclusion, Cor.4U and iCell 2 hiPSC-CMs are both sensitive enough to detect drug-induced delayed or shortened repolarization and arrhythmia and can provide useful predictive cardiac electrophysiology data. Arrhythmias occurred at concentrations higher than clinical free maximum plasma concentrations with an overestimation of the risk with cisapride. However, quantitative differences of baseline electrophysiological characteristics or pharmacological sensitivity of both cell types have to be considered with caution during the interpretation of data. The new chemical entities included within a given drug development program should be evaluated in hiPSC-CMs coming from a single supplier. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optimal percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease: An updated, large-scale systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Nguyen, An Vu; Thanh, Le Van; Kamel, Mohamed Gomaa; Abdelrahman, Sara Attia Mahmoud; El-Mekawy, Mohamed; Mokhtar, Mohamed Ashraf; Ali, Aya Ashraf; Hoang, Nam Nguyen Nho; Vuong, Nguyen Lam; Abd-Elhay, Fatma Abd-Elshahed; Omer, Omer Abdelbagi; Mohamed, Ahmed Abdou; Hirayama, Kenji; Huy, Nguyen Tien

2017-10-01

Our study aimed to compare three different percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) approaches: culprit-only (COR) and complete (CR) revascularization - categorizing into immediate (ICR) or staged (SCR). We searched 13 databases for randomized controlled trials. Articles were included if they compared at least two strategies. To have more studies in each analysis, an adjusted analysis was performed using person-years to incorporate follow-up durations and obtain pooled rate ratios (RR), with their corresponding 95% confidence interval. Thirteen trials were included with a population of 2830 patients. COR significantly increased major adverse cardiac event (MACE) (adjusted RR 1.67, 95% CI: 1.27-2.19) and repeat revascularization (2.12, 1.67-2.69), which was driven by repeat PCI, without any difference in all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction (MI) compared to CR. When categorizing CR into SCR and ICR, the trend repeated with COR increased MACE (1.99, 1.53-2.6 for ICR), cardiovascular mortality (2.06, 1.07-3.96 for ICR), MI for ICR (1.72, 1.04-2.86), repeat revascularization and repeat PCI for both ICR and SCR. Non-cardiovascular mortality, stroke, nephropathy, re-hospitalization, stent thrombosis and bleeding were similar among all approaches. In MVD-STEMI patients, CR is better than COR in terms of MACE, cardiovascular mortality, repeat revascularization with no difference in safety outcomes. There was a trend towards to a reduction of cardiovascular mortality and MI in ICR compared to SCR when each matched with COR; even though there is no statistically significant difference between ICR and SCR when compared together. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Material properties of CorCap passive cardiac support device.

PubMed

Chitsaz, Sam; Wenk, Jonathan F; Ge, Liang; Wisneski, Andrew; Mookhoek, Aart; Ratcliffe, Mark B; Guccione, Julius M; Tseng, Elaine E

2013-01-01

Myocardial function deteriorates during ventricular remodeling in patients with congestive heart failure (HF). Ventricular restraint therapy using a cardiac support device (CSD) is designed to reduce the amount of stress inside the dilated ventricles, which in turn halts remodeling. However, as an open mesh surrounding the heart, it is unknown what the mechanical properties of the CSD are in different fiber orientations. Composite specimens of CorCap (Acorn Cardiovascular, Inc, St. Paul, MN) CSD fabric and silicone were constructed in different fiber orientations and tested on a custom-built biaxial stretcher. Silicone controls were made and stretched to detect the parameters of the matrix. CSD coefficients were calculated using the composite and silicone matrix stress-strain data. Stiffness in different fiber orientations was determined. Silicone specimens exerted a linear behavior, with stiffness of 2.57 MPa. For the composites with 1 fiber set aligned with respect to the stretch axes, stiffness in the direction of the aligned fiber set was higher than that in the cross-fiber direction (14.39 MPa versus 5.66 MPa), indicating greater compliance in the cross-fiber direction. When the orientation of the fiber sets in the composite were matched to the expected clinical orientation of the implanted CorCap, the stiffness in the circumferential axis (with respect to the heart) was greater than in the longitudinal axis (10.55 MPa versus 9.70 MPa). The mechanical properties of the CorCap demonstrate directionality with greater stiffness circumferentially than longitudinally. Implantation of the CorCap clinically should take into account the directionality of the biomechanics to optimize ventricular restraint. Copyright © 2013 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Revisiting the Roco G-protein cycle.

PubMed

Terheyden, Susanne; Ho, Franz Y; Gilsbach, Bernd K; Wittinghofer, Alfred; Kortholt, Arjan

2015-01-01

Mutations in leucine-rich-repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most frequent cause of late-onset Parkinson's disease (PD). LRRK2 belongs to the Roco family of proteins which share a conserved Ras-like G-domain (Roc) and a C-terminal of Roc (COR) domain tandem. The nucleotide state of small G-proteins is strictly controlled by guanine-nucleotide-exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs). Because of contradictory structural and biochemical data, the regulatory mechanism of the LRRK2 Roc G-domain and the RocCOR tandem is still under debate. In the present study, we solved the first nucleotide-bound Roc structure and used LRRK2 and bacterial Roco proteins to characterize the RocCOR function in more detail. Nucleotide binding induces a drastic structural change in the Roc/COR domain interface, a region strongly implicated in patients with an LRRK2 mutation. Our data confirm previous assumptions that the C-terminal subdomain of COR functions as a dimerization device. We show that the dimer formation is independent of nucleotide. The affinity for GDP/GTP is in the micromolar range, the result of which is high dissociation rates in the s-1 range. Thus Roco proteins are unlikely to need GEFs to achieve activation. Monomeric LRRK2 and Roco G-domains have a similar low GTPase activity to small G-proteins. We show that GTPase activity in bacterial Roco is stimulated by the nucleotide-dependent dimerization of the G-domain within the complex. We thus propose that the Roco proteins do not require GAPs to stimulate GTP hydrolysis but stimulate each other by one monomer completing the catalytic machinery of the other.

Inner and Outer Coordination Shells of Mg(2+) in CorA Selectivity Filter from Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

PubMed

Kitjaruwankul, Sunan; Wapeesittipan, Pattama; Boonamnaj, Panisak; Sompornpisut, Pornthep

2016-01-28

Structural data of CorA Mg(2+) channels show that the five Gly-Met-Asn (GMN) motifs at the periplasmic loop of the pentamer structure form a molecular scaffold serving as a selectivity filter. Unfortunately, knowledge about the cation selectivity of Mg(2+) channels remains limited. Since Mg(2+) in aqueous solution has a strong first hydration shell and apparent second hydration sphere, the coordination structure of Mg(2+) in a CorA selectivity filter is expected to be different from that in bulk water. Hence, this study investigated the hydration structure and ligand coordination of Mg(2+) in a selectivity filter of CorA using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The simulations reveal that the inner-shell structure of Mg(2+) in the filter is not significantly different from that in aqueous solution. The major difference is the characteristic structural features of the outer shell. The GMN residues engage indirectly in the interactions with the metal ion as ligands in the second shell of Mg(2+). Loss of hydrogen bonds between inner- and outer-shell waters observed from Mg(2+) in bulk water is mostly compensated by interactions between waters in the first solvation shell and the GMN motif. Some water molecules in the second shell remain in the selectivity filter and become less mobile to support the metal binding. Removal of Mg(2+) from the divalent cation sensor sites of the protein had an impact on the structure and metal binding of the filter. From the results, it can be concluded that the GMN motif enhances the affinity of the metal binding site in the CorA selectivity filter by acting as an outer coordination ligand.

Restoration of the joint geometry and outcome after stemless TESS shoulder arthroplasty

PubMed Central

von Engelhardt, Lars V; Manzke, Michael; Breil-Wirth, Andreas; Filler, Timm J; Jerosch, Joerg

2017-01-01

AIM To evaluate the joint geometry and the clinical outcome of stemless, anatomical shoulder arthroplasty with the TESS system. METHODS Twenty-one shoulders with a mean follow-up 18 of months were included. On scaled digital radiographs the premorbid center of rotation (CoR) was assessed and compared to the CoR of the prosthesis by using the MediCAD® software. Additionally, the pre- and post-operative geometry of the CoR was assessed in relation to the glenoid, the acromion as well as to the proximal humerus. Radiological changes, such as radiolucencies, were also assessed. Clinical outcome was assessed with the Constant and DASH score. RESULTS Both, the Constant and DASH scores improved significantly from 11% to 75% and from 70 to 30 points, P < 0.01 respectively. There were no significant differences regarding age, etiology, cemented or metal-backed glenoids, etc. (P > 0.05). The pre- and postoperative humeral offset, the lateral glenohumeral offset, the height of the CoR, the acromiohumeral distance as well as neck-shaft angle showed no significant changes (P > 0.05). The mean deviation of the CoR of the prosthesis from the anatomic center was 1.0 ± 2.8 mm. Three cases showed a medial deviation of more than 3 mm. These deviations of 5.1, 5.7 and 7.6 mm and were caused by an inaccurate humeral neck cut. These 3 patients showed a relatively poor outcome scoring. CONCLUSION TESS arthroplasty allows an anatomical joint reconstruction with a very good outcome. Outliers described in this study sensitize the surgeon for an accurate humeral neck cut. PMID:29094010

Review of variations in Mw < 7 earthquake motions on position and tec (Mw = 6.5 aegean sea earthquake sample)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yildirim, O.; Inyurt, S.; Mekik, C.

2015-10-01

Turkey is a country located in Middle Latitude zone and in which tectonic activity is intensive. Lastly, an earthquake of magnitude 6.5Mw occurred at Aegean Sea offshore on date 24 May 2014 at 12:25 UTC and it lasted approximately 40 s. The said earthquake was felt also in Greece, Romania and Bulgaria in addition to Turkey. In recent years seismic origin ionospheric anomaly detection studies have been done with TEC (Total Electron Contents) generated from GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals and the findings obtained have been revealed. In this study, TEC and positional variations have been examined seperately regarding the earthquake which occurred in the Aegean Sea. Then The correlation of the said ionospheric variation with the positional variation has been investigated. For this purpose, total fifteen stations have been used among which the data of four numbers of CORS-TR stations in the seismic zone (AYVL, CANA, IPSA, YENC) and IGS and EUREF stations are used. The ionospheric and positional variations of AYVL, CANA, IPSA and YENC stations have been examined by Bernese 5.0v software. When the (PPP-TEC) values produced as result of the analysis are examined, it has been understood that in the four stations located in Turkey, three days before the earthquake at 08:00 and 10:00 UTC, the TEC values were approximately 4 TECU above the upper limit TEC value. Still in the same stations, one day before the earthquake at 06:00, 08:00 and 10:00 UTC, it is being shown that the TEC values were approximately 5 TECU below the lower limit TEC value. On the other hand, the GIM-TEC values published by the CODE center have been examined. Still in all stations, it has been observed that three days before the earthquake the TEC values in the time portions of 08:00 and 10:00 UTC were approximately 2 TECU above, one day before the earthquake at 06:00, 08:00 and 10:00 UTC, the TEC values were approximately 4 TECU below the lower limit TEC value. Again, by using the same fifteen numbers of stations, positional variation investigation before and after the earthquake has been made for AYVL, CANA, IPSA and YENC stations. As result of the analysis made, positional displacements has been seen before and after earthquake at CANA station which is the nearest station to earthquake center. It is about 10 and 3 cm before three days and one day earthquake.

Agricultural crops and soil treatment impacts on the daily and seasonal dynamics of CO2 fluxes in the field agroecosystems at the Central region of Russia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazirov, Ilya; Vasenev, Ivan; Meshalkina, Joulia; Yaroslavtsev, Alexis; Berezovskiy, Egor; Djancharov, Turmusbek

2015-04-01

The problem of greenhouse gases' concentrations increasing becomes more and more important due to global changes issues. The main component of greenhouse gases is carbon dioxide. The researches focused on its fluxes in natural and anthropogenic modified landscapes can help in this problem solution. Our research has been done with support of the RF Government grants # 11.G34.31.0079 and # 14.120.14.4266 and of FP7 Grant # 603542 LUC4C in the representative for Central Region of Russia field agroecosystems at the Precision Farming Experimental Field of Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University with cultivated sod podzoluvisols, barley and oats - vetch grass mix (Moscow station of the RusFluxNet). The daily and seasonal dynamics of the carbon dioxide have been studied at the ecosystem level by the Eddy covariance method (2 stations) and at the soil level by the exposition chamber method (40 chambers) with mobile infra red gas analyzer (Li-Cor 820). The primary Eddy covariance monitoring data on CO2 fluxes and water vapor have been processed by EddyPro software developed by LI-COR Biosciences. According to the two-year monitoring data the daily CO2 sink during the vegetation season is usually approximately two times higher than its emission at night. Seasonal CO2 fluxes comparative stabilization has been fixed in case the plants height around 10-12 cm and it usually persist until the wax ripeness phase. There is strong dependence between the soil CO2 emission and the air temperature with the correlation coefficient 0.86 in average (due to strong input of the soil thin top functional subhorizon), but it drops essentially at the end of the season - till 0.38. The soil moisture impact on CO2 fluxes dynamics was less, with negative correlation at the end of the season. High daily dynamics of CO2 fluxes determines the protocol requirements for seasonal soil monitoring investigation with less limitation at the end of the season. The accumulated monitoring data will be very useful for verification the current regional assessments of the organic C balances, investigated crops' C-footprint calculations and better understanding the soil organic matter dynamics in these soils with different crops and farming practices.

Statistical analysis of electromagnetic radiation measurements in the vicinity of GSM/UMTS base station installed on buildings in Serbia.

PubMed

Koprivica, Mladen; Slavkovic, Vladimir; Neskovic, Natasa; Neskovic, Aleksandar

2016-03-01

As a result of dense deployment of public mobile base stations, additional electromagnetic (EM) radiation occurs in the modern human environment. At the same time, public concern about the exposure to EM radiation emitted by such sources has increased. In order to determine the level of radio frequency radiation generated by base stations, extensive EM field strength measurements were carried out for 664 base station locations, from which 276 locations refer to the case of base stations with antenna system installed on buildings. Having in mind the large percentage (42 %) of locations with installations on buildings, as well as the inevitable presence of people in their vicinity, a detailed analysis of this location category was performed. Measurement results showed that the maximum recorded value of total electric field strength has exceeded International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection general public exposure reference levels at 2.5 % of locations and Serbian national reference levels at 15.6 % of locations. It should be emphasised that the values exceeding the reference levels were observed only outdoor, while in indoor total electric field strength in no case exceeded the defined reference levels. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

NASA Program Office Technology Investments to Enable Future Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thronson, Harley; Pham, Thai; Ganel, Opher

2018-01-01

The Cosmic Origins (COR) and Physics of the Cosmos (PCOS) Program Offices (POs) reside at NASA GSFC and implement priorities for the NASA HQ Astrophysics Division (APD). One major aspect of the POs’ activities is managing our Strategic Astrophysics Technology (SAT) program to mature technologies for future strategic missions. The Programs follow APD guidance on which missions are strategic, currently informed by the NRC’s 2010 Decadal Survey report, as well as APD’s Implementation Plan and the Astrophysics Roadmap.In preparation for the upcoming 2020 Decadal Survey, the APD has established Science and Technology Definition Teams (STDTs) to study four large-mission concepts: the Origins Space Telescope (née, Far-IR Surveyor), Habitable Exoplanet Imaging Mission, Large UV/Optical/IR Surveyor, and Lynx (née, X-ray Surveyor). The STDTs will develop the science case and design reference mission, assess technology development needs, and estimate the cost of their concept. A fifth team, the L3 Study Team (L3ST), was charged to study potential US contributions to ESA’s planned Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) gravitational-wave observatory.The POs use a rigorous and transparent process to solicit technology gaps from the scientific and technical communities, and prioritize those entries based on strategic alignment, expected impact, cross-cutting applicability, and urgency. For the past two years, the technology-gap assessments of the four STDTs and the L3ST are included in our process. Until a study team submits its final report, community-proposed changes to gaps submitted or adopted by a study team are forwarded to that study team for consideration.We discuss our technology development process, with strategic prioritization informing calls for SAT proposals and informing investment decisions. We also present results of the 2017 technology gap prioritization and showcase our current portfolio of technology development projects. To date, 96 COR and 86 PCOS SAT proposals have been received, of which 22 COR and 28 PCOS projects were awarded. For more information, see the Program Annual Technology Reports available through the PO Technology web page at https://apd440.gsfc.nasa.gov/technology.html .

GPS-Only Terrestrial Reference Frame Based on a Global Reprocessing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dietrich, R.; Rothacher, M.; Ruelke, A.; Fritsche, M.; Steigenberger, P.

2007-12-01

The realization of the International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS) with highest accuracy and stability is fundamental and crucial for applications in geodesy, geodynamics, geophysics and global change. In a joint effort TU Dresden and TU Munich/GFZ Potsdam reprocessed a global GPS network of more than 200 stations. As a contribution to an ITRS realization daily normal equations from 1994 to 2005 were rigorously combined in order to determine a global GPS-only reference frame (PDR05/Potsdam-Dresden-Reprocessing Reference Frame). We present a realization of the global terrestrial reference system which follows the center of mass approach in consideration of the load-induced deformation of the Earth's crust due to the redistribution of surface masses. The stability of our reference frame will be evaluated based on the obtained long-term trends of station coordinates, the load-induced deformation estimates and the homogeneous time series of station positions. We will compare our solution with other recent terrestrial reference system realizations and give some conclusions for future realizations of the ITRS.

A moderate decrease in temperature induces COR15a expression through the CBF signaling cascade and enhances freezing tolerance.

PubMed

Wang, Yi; Hua, Jian

2009-10-01

Temperature has a profound effect on plant growth and development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation are not well understood. In particular, how moderate temperature variations are perceived and transduced inside the plant cells remains obscure. In this study, we analyzed transcriptional responses to a moderate decrease in temperature (cooling) in Arabidopsis thaliana. The cooling response involves a weaker and more transient induction of cold-induced genes, such as COR15a, than cold response. This induction probably accounts for the increase in freezing tolerance by cooling acclimation. Cooling also induces some defense response genes, and their induction, but not that of COR15a, requires the salicylic acid signaling pathway. Analysis of the regulation of COR15a reveals that cooling induction is mediated through the same C repeat/dehydration-responsive (CRT/DRE) element as cold induction. Furthermore, we identified a role for CBF1 and CBF4 in transducing signals of moderate decreases in temperature. It appears that variants of the CBF signaling cascade are utilized in cold and cooling responses, and a moderate decrease in temperature may invoke an adaptive response to prepare plants to cope with a more drastic decrease in temperature.

Physical Habitat and Energy Inputs Determine Freshwater Invertebrate Communities in Reference and Cranberry Farm Impacted Northeastern Coastal Zone Streams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lander, D. M. P.; McCanty, S. T.; Dimino, T. F.; Christian, A. D.

2016-02-01

The River Continuum Concept (RCC) predicts stream biological communities based on dominant physical structures and energy inputs into streams and predicts how these features and corresponding communities change along the stream continuum. Verifying RCC expectations is important for creating valid points of comparison during stream ecosystem evaluation. These reference expectations are critical for restoration projects, such as the restoration of decommissioned cranberry bogs. Our research compares the physical habitat and freshwater invertebrate functional feeding groups (FWIFFG) of reference, active cranberry farming, and cranberry farm passive restoration sites in Northeastern Coastal Zone streams of Massachusetts to the specific RCC FWIFFG predictions. We characterized stream physical habitat using a semi-quantitative habitat characterization protocol and sampled freshwater invertebrates using the U.S. EPA standard 20-jab multi-habitat protocol. We expected that stream habitat would be most homogeneous at active farming stations, intermediate at restoration stations, and most heterogeneous at reference stations. Furthermore, we expected reference stream FWIFFG would be accurately predicted by the RCC and distributions at restoration and active sites would vary significantly. Habitat data was analyzed using a principle component analysis and results confirmed our predictions showing more homogeneous habitat for the active and reference stations, while showing a more heterogeneous habitat at the reference stations. The FWIFFG chi-squared analysis showed significant deviation from our specific RCC FWIFFG predictions. Because published FWIFFG distributions did not match our empirical values for a least disturbed Northeastern Coastal Zone headwater stream, using our data as a community structure template for current and future restoration projects is not recommend without further considerations.

Microbial Community Composition, Functions, and Activities in the Gulf of Mexico 1 Year after the Deepwater Horizon Accident

PubMed Central

Yergeau, Etienne; Maynard, Christine; Sanschagrin, Sylvie; Champagne, Julie; Juck, David; Lee, Kenneth

2015-01-01

Several studies have assessed the effects of the released oil on microbes, either during or immediately after the Deepwater Horizon accident. However, little is known about the potential longer-term persistent effects on microbial communities and their functions. In this study, one water column station near the wellhead (3.78 km southwest of the wellhead), one water column reference station outside the affected area (37.77 km southeast of the wellhead), and deep-sea sediments near the wellhead (3.66 km southeast of the wellhead) were sampled 1 year after the capping of the well. In order to analyze microbial community composition, function, and activity, we used metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and mineralization assays. Mineralization of hexadecane was significantly higher at the wellhead station at a depth of ∼1,200 m than at the reference station. Community composition based on taxonomical or functional data showed that the samples taken at a depth of ∼1,200 m were significantly more dissimilar between the stations than at other depths (surface, 100 m, 750 m, and >1,500 m). Both Bacteria and Archaea showed reduced activity at depths of ∼1,200 m when the wellhead station was compared to the reference station, and their activity was significantly higher in surficial sediments than in 10-cm sediments. Surficial sediments also harbored significantly different active genera than did 5- and 10-cm sediments. For the remaining microbial parameters assessed, no significant differences could be observed between the wellhead and reference stations and between surface and 5- to 10-cm-deep sediments. PMID:26092461

First Indications of Intraplate Deformations in Central Germany from Reprocessed GNSS Time Series and Geological Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becker, Matthias; Leinen, Stefan; Läufer, Gwendolyn; Lehné, Rouwen

2013-04-01

Six years of GPS data have been reprocessed in ITRF2008 for a regional SAPOS CORS network in the federal state of Hesse with 25 stations and some anchor sites of IGS and EPN to derive accurate and consistent coordinate time series. Based on daily network solutions coordinate time series parameters like velocities, offsets in case of antenna changes and annual periodic variation have been estimated. The estimation process includes the fitting of a sophisticated stochastic model for the time series which accounts for inherent time correlation. The results are blended with geological data to verify information from geology on potential recent deformations by the geodetic analyses. Besides of some information on the reprocessing of the GNSS the results the stochastics of the derived velocity field will be discussed in detail. Special emphasis will be on the intra-plate deformation: for the horizontal component the residual velocity field after removal of a plate rotation model is presented, while for the vertical velocities the datum-induced systematic effect is removed in order to analyze the remaining vertical motion. The residual velocity field is then matched with the geology for Hesse. Correlation of both vertical and horizontal movements with major geological structures reveals good accordance. SAPOS stations with documented significant subsidence are mainly located in tertiary Graben structures such as the Lower Hessian Basin (station Kassel), the Wetterau (station Kloppenheim) or the Upper Rhine Graben (Station Darmstadt). From the geological point of view these structures are supposed to be subsiding ones. Other major geological features, i.e. the Rhenish Shield as well as the East Hessian Bunter massif are supposed to be affected by recent uplift. SAPOS stations located in these regions match the assumed movement (e.g. Weilburg, Wiesbaden, Bingen, Fulda). Furthermore SAPOS-derived horizontal movements seem to trace tectonic movements in the region, i.e. extension along the tertiary Graben structures, including a sinistral strike slip component. However, a more detailed analysis is needed to confirm the link between detected movement and geodynamic processes.

Common View Time Transfer Using Worldwide GPS and DMA Monitor Stations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, Wilson G.; McCaskill, Thomas B.; Oaks, Orville J.; Buisson, James A.; Warren, Hugh E.

1996-01-01

Analysis of the on-orbit Navstar clocks and the Global Positioning System (GPS) monitor station reference clocks is performed by the Naval Research Laboratory using both broadcast and postprocessed precise ephemerides. The precise ephemerides are produced by the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) for each of the GPS space vehicles from pseudo-range measurements collected at five GPS and at five DMA monitor stations spaced around the world. Recently, DMA established an additional site co-located with the US Naval Observatory precise time site. The time reference for the new DMA site is the DoD Master Clock. Now, for the first time, it is possible to transfer time every 15 minutes via common view from the DoD Master Clock to the 11 GPS and DMA monitor stations. The estimated precision of a single common-view time transfer measurement taken over a 15-minute interval was between 1.4 and 2.7 nanoseconds. Using the measurements from all Navstar space vehicles in common view during the 15-minute interval, typically 3-7 space vehicles, improved the estimate of the precision to between 0.65 and 1.13 nanoseconds. The mean phase error obtained from closure of the time transfer around the world using the 11 monitor stations and the 25 space vehicle clocks over a period of 4 months had a magnitude of 31 picoseconds. Analysis of the low noise time transfer from the DoD Master Clock to each of the monitor stations yields not only the bias in the time of the reference clock, but also focuses attention on structure in the behaviour of the reference clock not previously seen. Furthermore, the time transfer provides a a uniformly sampled database of 15-minute measurements that make possible, for the first time, the direct and exhaustive computation of the frequency stability of the monitor station reference clocks. To lend perspective to the analysis, a summary is given of the discontinuities in phase and frequency that occurred in the reference clock at the Master Control Station during the period covered by the analysis.

Demonstration and Validation of Corrosion-Mitigation Technologies for Mechanical Room Utility Piping and Cooling-Tower Pumps

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-01

Infrastructure, Task 2.1” ERDC/CERL TR-15-5 ii Abstract Two critical infrastructure corrosion issues at Fort Bragg, NC, are the cor- rosion of steel utility...piping union joints in mechanical rooms and the cor- rosion of steel pump housings in cooling tower systems. Reliable operation of these components...pump 5 incorporating 316 stainless steel housing. .................................... 19 Figure 13. New pump 5 being installed

Impact and Potential of Decision Research on Decision Aiding

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

series was generated by the APA Committee on Research Support (CORS). a committee reporting to APA’s major scientific policy-making body, the Board of... Scientific Affairs. CORS initiated the series to provide a forum for the discussion of behavioral research issues related to the defense mission...are interested mainly in the scientific or theoretical aspects of their work, and are usually not in the best position to understand its potential

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

CorAL is a software Library designed to aid in the analysis of femtoscipic data. Femtoscopic data are a class of measured quantities used in heavy-ion collisions to characterize particle emitting source sizes. The most common type of this data is two-particle correleations induced by the Hanbury-Brown/Twiss (HBT) Effect, but can also include correlations induced by final-state interactions between pairs of emitted particles in a heavy-ion collision. Because heavy-ion collisions are complex many particle systems, modeling hydrodynamical models or hybrid techniques. Using the CRAB module, CorAL can turn the output from these models into something that can be directley compared tomore » experimental data. CorAL can also take the raw experimentally measured correlation functions and image them by inverting the Koonin-Pratt equation to extract the space-time emission profile of the particle emitting source. This source function can be further analyzed or directly compared to theoretical calculations.« less

IsoCor: correcting MS data in isotope labeling experiments.

PubMed

Millard, Pierre; Letisse, Fabien; Sokol, Serguei; Portais, Jean-Charles

2012-05-01

Mass spectrometry (MS) is widely used for isotopic labeling studies of metabolism and other biological processes. Quantitative applications-e.g. metabolic flux analysis-require tools to correct the raw MS data for the contribution of all naturally abundant isotopes. IsoCor is a software that allows such correction to be applied to any chemical species. Hence it can be used to exploit any isotopic tracer, from well-known ((13)C, (15)N, (18)O, etc) to unusual ((57)Fe, (77)Se, etc) isotopes. It also provides new features-e.g. correction for the isotopic purity of the tracer-to improve the accuracy of quantitative isotopic studies, and implements an efficient algorithm to process large datasets. Its user-friendly interface makes isotope labeling experiments more accessible to a wider biological community. IsoCor is distributed under OpenSource license at http://metasys.insa-toulouse.fr/software/isocor/

GNSS CORS hardware and software enabling new science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drummond, P.

2009-12-01

GNSS CORS networks are enabling new opportunities for science and public and private sector business. This paper will explore how the newest geodetic monitoring software and GNSS receiver hardware from Trimble Navigation Ltd are enabling new science. Technology trends and science opportunities will be explored. These trends include the installation of active GNSS control, automation of observations and processing, and the advantages of multi-observable and multi-constellation observations, all performed with the use of off the shelf products and industry standard open-source data formats. Also the possibilities with moving science from an after-the-fact postprocessed model to a real-time epoch-by-epoch solution will be explored. This presentation will also discuss the combination of existing GNSS CORS networks with project specific installations used for monitoring. Experience is showing GNSS is able to provide higher resolution data than previous methods, providing new tools for science, decision makers and financial planners.

Oblique Photogrammetry and Usage on Land Administration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kisa, A.; Ozmus, L.; Erkek, B.; Ates, H. B.; Bakici, S.

2013-08-01

Projects based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have started within the body of the General Directorate of Land Registry and Cadastre (GDLRC) by the Land Registry and Cadastre Information System (LRCIS) in the beginning of 2000s. LRCIS was followed by other projects which are Turkish National Geographic Information System (TNGIS), Continuously Operating GPS Reference Stations (CORS-TR), Geo Metadata Portal (GMP), Orthophoto Web Services, Completion of Initial Cadastre, Cadastre Renovation Project (CRP), 2B and Land Registry Achieve Information System (LRAIS). When examining the projects generated by GDLRC, it is realized that they include basic functions of land administration required for sustainable development. Sustainable development is obtained through effective land administration as is known. Nowadays, land use becomes more intense as a result of rapid population increase. The importance of land ownership has increased accordingly. At this point, the necessity of cadastre appears. In Turkey, cadastral registration is carried out by the detection of parcels. In other words, it is obtained through the division of land surface into 2D boundaries and mapping of them. However, existing land administration systems have begun to lose their efficiency while coping with rights, restrictions and responsibilities (RRRs) belonging to land which become more complicated day by day. Overlapping and interlocking constructions appear particularly in urban areas with dense housing and consequently, the problem of how to project these structures onto the surface in 2D cadastral systems has arisen. Herein, the necessity of 3D cadastre concept and 3D property data is confronted. In recent years, oblique photogrammetry, whose applications are gradually spreading, is used as an effective method for producing 3D data. In this study, applications of oblique photogrammetry and usability of oblique images as base for 3D Cadastre and Land Administration projects are examined.

Calibration and Validation Plan for the L2A Processor and Products of the SENTINEL-2 Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Main-Knorn, M.; Pflug, B.; Debaecker, V.; Louis, J.

2015-04-01

The Copernicus programme, is a European initiative for the implementation of information services based on observation data received from Earth Observation (EO) satellites and ground based information. In the frame of this programme, ESA is developing the Sentinel-2 optical imaging mission that will deliver optical data products designed to feed downstream services mainly related to land monitoring, emergency management and security. To ensure the highest quality of service, ESA sets up the Sentinel-2 Mission Performance Centre (MPC) in charge of the overall performance monitoring of the Sentinel-2 mission. TPZ F and DLR have teamed up in order to provide the best added-value support to the MPC for calibration and validation of the Level-2A processor (Sen2Cor) and products. This paper gives an overview over the planned L2A calibration and validation activities. Level-2A processing is applied to Top-Of-Atmosphere (TOA) Level-1C ortho-image reflectance products. Level-2A main output is the Bottom-Of-Atmosphere (BOA) corrected reflectance product. Additional outputs are an Aerosol Optical Thickness (AOT) map, a Water Vapour (WV) map and a Scene Classification (SC) map with Quality Indicators for cloud and snow probabilities. Level-2A BOA, AOT and WV outputs are calibrated and validated using ground-based data of automatic operating stations and data of in-situ campaigns. Scene classification is validated by the visual inspection of test datasets and cross-sensor comparison, supplemented by meteorological data, if available. Contributions of external in-situ campaigns would enlarge the reference dataset and enable extended validation exercise. Therefore, we are highly interested in and welcome external contributors.

Is popular radio a source of exposure to alcohol references in mid to later life? A content analysis.

PubMed

Haighton, C; Halligan, J; Scott, S

2017-04-20

There is concern around alcohol consumption in mid to later life yet little understanding about what influences this behaviour. No previous research has explored the extent to which adults in mid to later life may be exposed to alcohol references in the media. This project aimed to determine the frequency of alcohol references on radio stations with a high proportion of listeners in mid to later life. Content analysis of alcohol references on four popular UK music-based radio stations with a high proportion of listeners aged 55-64 years over three time points. Alcohol references occur frequently, but vary by time of year and type of radio station. When alcohol is mentioned its consumption is portrayed as the norm, without negative consequences. On three commercial stations, the majority of mentions came from advertising, whereas on BBC Radio 2 nearly all references were talk-based. All adverts for direct promotion of alcohol were by supermarkets. Alcohol was frequently associated with celebrations, socializing or something to consume for its own sake. Adults in the age group 55-64 may be exposed to references to alcohol that could serve to reinforce norms of consumption of alcohol and promote purchases of cheap alcohol. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Faculty of Public Health. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

The determination of the most applicable PWV model for Turkey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deniz, Ilke; Gurbuz, Gokhan; Mekik, Cetin

2016-07-01

Water vapor is a key component for modelling atmosphere and climate studies. Moreover, long-term water vapor changes can be an independent source for detecting climate changes. Since Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) use microwaves passing through the atmosphere, atmospheric effects are modeled with high accuracy. Tropospheric effects on GNSS signals are estimated with total zenith delay parameter (ZTD) which is the sum of hydrostatic (ZHD) and wet zenith delay (ZWD). The first component can be obtained from meteorological observations with high accuracy; the second component, however, can be computed by subtracting ZHD from ZTD (ZWD=ZTD-ZHD). Afterwards, the weighted mean temperature (Tm) or the conversion factor (Q) is used for the conversion between the precipitable water vapor (PWV) and ZWD. The parameters Tm and Q are derived from the analysis of radiosonde stations' profile observations. Numerous Q and Tm models have been developed for each radiosonde station, radiosonde station group, countries and global fields such as Bevis Tm model and Emardson and Derks' Q models. So, PWV models (Tm and Q models) applied for Turkey have been developed using a year of radiosonde data (2011) from 8 radiosonde stations. In this study the models developed are tested by comparing PWVGNSS computed applying Tm and Q models to the ZTD estimates derived by Bernese and GAMIT/GLOBK software at GNSS stations established at Istanbul and Ankara with those from the collocated radiosonde stations (PWVRS) from October 2013 to December 2014 with the data obtained from a project (no 112Y350) supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK). The comparison results show that PWVGNSS and PWVRS are in high correlation (86 % for Ankara and 90% for Istanbul). Thus, the most applicable model for Turkey and the accuracy of GNSS meteorology are investigated. In addition, Tm model was applied to the ZTD estimates of 20 TUSAGA-Active (CORS-TR) stations in the 38.0°-42.0° northern latitudes and 28.0°-34.0° eastern longitudes of Turkey and PWV were computed. ZTD estimates of these stations were computed using Bernese GNSS Software v5.0 during the period from June 2013 to June 2014. Preceding the PWV estimation, meteorological parameters for these stations (temperature, pressure and humidity) are derived by applying spherical harmonics modelling and interpolation to the above-mentioned meteorological parameters measured by meteorological stations surrounding TUSAGA-Active stations. Results of spherical harmonics modelling and interpolation yield the precision of ±1.74 K in temperature, ±0.95 hPa in pressure and ±14.88 % in humidity. Also, the PWV of TUSAGA-Active stations selected were estimated.

A combined source and site-effect study of ground motions generated by an earthquake in Port au Prince (Haiti)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

St Fleur, Sadrac; Courboulex, Francoise; Bertrand, Etienne; Deschamps, Anne; Mercier de Lepinay, Bernard; Prepetit, Claude; Hough, Suzan

2013-04-01

We present the preliminary results of a study with the aim of understanding how some combinations of source and site effects can generate extreme ground motions in the city of Port au Prince. For this study, we have used the recordings of several tens of earthquakes with magnitude larger than 3.0 at 3 to 14 stations from three networks: 3 stations of the Canadian Broad-band network (RNCan), 2 stations of the educational French network (SaE) and 9 stations of the accelerometric network (Bureau des Mines et de l'Energie of Port au Prince and US Geological survey). In order to estimate site effects under each station, we have applied classical spectral ratio methods: The H/V (Horizontal/Vertical) method was first used to select a reference station, which was itself used in a site/reference method. Because a true reference station was not available, we have used successively stations HCEA, then station PAPH, then an average value of 3 stations. In the frequency range studied (0.5 - 20 Hz), we found a site-to-reference ratio up to 3 to 8. However, these values present a large variability, depending on the earthquake recordings. This may indicate that the observed amplification from one station to the other depends not only from the local site effect but also from the source. We then used the same earthquake recordings as Empirical Green's Functions (EGF) in order to simulate the ground motions generated by a virtual earthquake. For this simulation, we have used a stochastic EGF summation method. We have worked on the simulation of a magnitude Mw=6.8 using successively 2 smaller events that occurred on the Leogane fault as EGF. The results obtained using the two events are surprisingly very different. Using the first EGF, we obtained almost the same ground motion values at each station in Port au Prince, whereas with the second EGF, the results highlight large differences. The large variability obtained in the results indicates that a particular combination of site and source effects may be responsible of large ground motions, especially at some given sites.

Transcriptome Analysis of the Signalling Networks in Coronatine-Induced Secondary Laticifer Differentiation from Vascular Cambia in Rubber Trees

PubMed Central

Wu, Shaohua; Zhang, Shixin; Chao, Jinquan; Deng, Xiaomin; Chen, Yueyi; Shi, Minjing; Tian, Wei-Min

2016-01-01

The secondary laticifer in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg.) is a specific tissue within the secondary phloem. This tissue differentiates from the vascular cambia, and its function is natural rubber biosynthesis and storage. Given that jasmonates play a pivotal role in secondary laticifer differentiation, we established an experimental system with jasmonate (JA) mimic coronatine (COR) for studying the secondary laticifer differentiation: in this system, differentiation occurs within five days of the treatment of epicormic shoots with COR. In the present study, the experimental system was used to perform transcriptome sequencing and gene expression analysis. A total of 67,873 unigenes were assembled, and 50,548 unigenes were mapped at least in one public database. Of these being annotated unigenes, 15,780 unigenes were differentially expressed early after COR treatment, and 19,824 unigenes were differentially expressed late after COR treatment. At the early stage, 8,646 unigenes were up-regulated, while 7,134 unigenes were down-regulated. At the late stage, the numbers of up- and down-regulated unigenes were 7,711 and 12,113, respectively. The annotation data and gene expression analysis of the differentially expressed unigenes suggest that JA-mediated signalling, Ca2+ signal transduction and the CLAVATA-MAPK-WOX signalling pathway may be involved in regulating secondary laticifer differentiation in rubber trees. PMID:27808245

Dentist-Patient Communication and Denture Quality Associated with Complete Denture Satisfaction Among Taiwanese Elderly Wearers.

PubMed

Chen, Jen-Hao; Huang, Hsiao-Ling; Lin, Ying-Chun; Chou, Tsau-Mau; Ebinger, John; Lee, Huey-Er

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to explore individual (ie, sociodemographic characteristics, patient personality) and clinical factors (ie, dentist-patient communication, denture quality) associated with complete denture satisfaction among the Taiwanese elderly population. A multistage sampling and cross-sectional design was used to collect data. A total of 387 fully edentulous citizens, aged 65 years and older and who had received new sets of complete dentures, were selected. The participants completed clinical dental examinations and questionnaires by personal interview to collect information on denture satisfaction and associated variables. The relationship among three groups of these participants (satisfied, neutral, and dissatisfied) and potential factors were simultaneously examined using polytomous logistic regression analysis. Overall, 36.7% of the participants were dissatisfied with their dentures. Living status (crude odds ratio [COR] = 2.04), personality (COR = 4.86), dentist-patient communication (COR = 7.46), and denture quality (COR = 5.02) were associated with complete denture satisfaction. The multivariate regression model showed that dentist-patient communication (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.41) and denture quality (AOR = 4.40) were significant complete denture satisfaction factors that diluted the effect of living status and personality. Inadequate dentistpatient communication and low denture quality were associated with the dissatisfaction of patients with dentures. To increase complete denture satisfaction, the importance of training programs aimed at enhancing dentist-patient communication and denture quality cannot be overemphasized.

In depth analysis of the mechanism of action of metal-dependent sigma factors: characterization of CorE2 from Myxococcus xanthus

PubMed Central

Marcos-Torres, Francisco Javier; Pérez, Juana; Gómez-Santos, Nuria; Moraleda-Muñoz, Aurelio; Muñoz-Dorado, José

2016-01-01

Extracytoplasmic function sigma factors represent the third pillar of signal-transduction mechanisms in bacteria. The variety of stimuli they recognize and mechanisms of action they use have allowed their classification into more than 50 groups. We have characterized CorE2 from Myxococcus xanthus, which belongs to group ECF44 and upregulates the expression of two genes when it is activated by cadmium and zinc. Sigma factors of this group contain a Cys-rich domain (CRD) at the C terminus which is essential for detecting metals. Point mutations at the six Cys residues of the CRD have revealed the contribution of each residue to CorE2 activity. Some of them are essential, while others are either dispensable or their mutations only slightly affect the activity of the protein. However, importantly, mutation of Cys174 completely shifts the specificity of CorE2 from cadmium to copper, indicating that the Cys arrangement of the CRD determines the metal specificity. Moreover, the conserved CxC motif located between the σ2 domain and the σ4.2 region has also been found to be essential for activity. The results presented here contribute to our understanding of the mechanism of action of metal-dependent sigma factors and help to define new common features of the members of this group of regulators. PMID:26951374

Evaluation of temperature differences for paired stations of the U.S. Climate Reference Network

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gallo, K.P.

2005-01-01

Adjustments to data observed at pairs of climate stations have been recommended to remove the biases introduced by differences between the stations in time of observation, temperature instrumentatios, latitude, and elevation. A new network of climate stations, located in rural settings, permits comparisons of temperatures for several pairs of stations without two of the biases (time of observation and instrurtientation). The daily, monthly, and annual minimum, maximum, and mean temperatures were compared for five pairs of stations included in the U.S. Climate Reference Network. Significant differences were found between the paired stations in the annual minimum, maximum, and mean temperatures for all five pairs of stations. Adjustments for latitude and elevation differences contributed to greater differences in mean annual temperature for four of the five stations. Lapse rates computed from the mean annual temperature differences between station pairs differed from a constant value, whether or not latitude adjustments were made to the data. The results suggest that microclimate influences on temperatures observed at nearby (horizontally and vertically) stations are potentially much greater than influences that might be due to latitude or elevation differences between the stations. ?? 2005 American Meteorological Society.

Microbial Community Composition, Functions, and Activities in the Gulf of Mexico 1 Year after the Deepwater Horizon Accident.

PubMed

Yergeau, Etienne; Maynard, Christine; Sanschagrin, Sylvie; Champagne, Julie; Juck, David; Lee, Kenneth; Greer, Charles W

2015-09-01

Several studies have assessed the effects of the released oil on microbes, either during or immediately after the Deepwater Horizon accident. However, little is known about the potential longer-term persistent effects on microbial communities and their functions. In this study, one water column station near the wellhead (3.78 km southwest of the wellhead), one water column reference station outside the affected area (37.77 km southeast of the wellhead), and deep-sea sediments near the wellhead (3.66 km southeast of the wellhead) were sampled 1 year after the capping of the well. In order to analyze microbial community composition, function, and activity, we used metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and mineralization assays. Mineralization of hexadecane was significantly higher at the wellhead station at a depth of ∼1,200 m than at the reference station. Community composition based on taxonomical or functional data showed that the samples taken at a depth of ∼1,200 m were significantly more dissimilar between the stations than at other depths (surface, 100 m, 750 m, and >1,500 m). Both Bacteria and Archaea showed reduced activity at depths of ∼1,200 m when the wellhead station was compared to the reference station, and their activity was significantly higher in surficial sediments than in 10-cm sediments. Surficial sediments also harbored significantly different active genera than did 5- and 10-cm sediments. For the remaining microbial parameters assessed, no significant differences could be observed between the wellhead and reference stations and between surface and 5- to 10-cm-deep sediments. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Investigation on the Reference Evapotranspiration Distribution at Regional Scale By Alternative Methods to Compute the FAO Penman-Monteith Equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snyder, R. L.; Mancosu, N.; Spano, D.

2014-12-01

This study derived the summer (June-August) reference evapotranspiration distribution map for Sardinia (Italy) based on weather station data and use of the geographic information system (GIS). A modified daily Penman-Monteith equation from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (UN-FAO) and the American Society of Civil Engineers Environmental and Water Resources Institute (ASCE-EWRI) was used to calculate the Standardized Reference Evapotranspiration (ETos) for all weather stations having a "full" set of required data for the calculations. For stations having only temperature data (partial stations), the Hargreaves-Samani equation was used to estimate the reference evapotranspiration for a grass surface (ETo). The ETos and ETo results were different depending on the local climate, so two methods to estimate ETos from the ETo were tested. Substitution of missing solar radiation, wind speed, and humidity data from a nearby station within a similar microclimate was found to give better results than using a calibration factor that related ETos and ETo. Therefore, the substitution method was used to estimate ETos at "partial" stations having only temperature data. The combination of 63 full and partial stations was sufficient to use GIS to map ETos for Sardinia. Three interpolation methods were studied, and the ordinary kriging model fitted the observed data better than a radial basis function or the inverse distance weighting method. Using station data points to create a regional map simplified the zonation of ETos when large scale computations were needed. Making a distinction based on ETos classes allows the simulation of crop water requirements for large areas and it can potentially lead to improved irrigation management and water savings. It also provides a baseline to investigate possible impact of climate change.

Real-Time PPP Based on the Coupling Estimation of Clock Bias and Orbit Error with Broadcast Ephemeris.

PubMed

Pan, Shuguo; Chen, Weirong; Jin, Xiaodong; Shi, Xiaofei; He, Fan

2015-07-22

Satellite orbit error and clock bias are the keys to precise point positioning (PPP). The traditional PPP algorithm requires precise satellite products based on worldwide permanent reference stations. Such an algorithm requires considerable work and hardly achieves real-time performance. However, real-time positioning service will be the dominant mode in the future. IGS is providing such an operational service (RTS) and there are also commercial systems like Trimble RTX in operation. On the basis of the regional Continuous Operational Reference System (CORS), a real-time PPP algorithm is proposed to apply the coupling estimation of clock bias and orbit error. The projection of orbit error onto the satellite-receiver range has the same effects on positioning accuracy with clock bias. Therefore, in satellite clock estimation, part of the orbit error can be absorbed by the clock bias and the effects of residual orbit error on positioning accuracy can be weakened by the evenly distributed satellite geometry. In consideration of the simple structure of pseudorange equations and the high precision of carrier-phase equations, the clock bias estimation method coupled with orbit error is also improved. Rovers obtain PPP results by receiving broadcast ephemeris and real-time satellite clock bias coupled with orbit error. By applying the proposed algorithm, the precise orbit products provided by GNSS analysis centers are rendered no longer necessary. On the basis of previous theoretical analysis, a real-time PPP system was developed. Some experiments were then designed to verify this algorithm. Experimental results show that the newly proposed approach performs better than the traditional PPP based on International GNSS Service (IGS) real-time products. The positioning accuracies of the rovers inside and outside the network are improved by 38.8% and 36.1%, respectively. The PPP convergence speeds are improved by up to 61.4% and 65.9%. The new approach can change the traditional PPP mode because of its advantages of independence, high positioning precision, and real-time performance. It could be an alternative solution for regional positioning service before global PPP service comes into operation.

Real-Time PPP Based on the Coupling Estimation of Clock Bias and Orbit Error with Broadcast Ephemeris

PubMed Central

Pan, Shuguo; Chen, Weirong; Jin, Xiaodong; Shi, Xiaofei; He, Fan

2015-01-01

Satellite orbit error and clock bias are the keys to precise point positioning (PPP). The traditional PPP algorithm requires precise satellite products based on worldwide permanent reference stations. Such an algorithm requires considerable work and hardly achieves real-time performance. However, real-time positioning service will be the dominant mode in the future. IGS is providing such an operational service (RTS) and there are also commercial systems like Trimble RTX in operation. On the basis of the regional Continuous Operational Reference System (CORS), a real-time PPP algorithm is proposed to apply the coupling estimation of clock bias and orbit error. The projection of orbit error onto the satellite-receiver range has the same effects on positioning accuracy with clock bias. Therefore, in satellite clock estimation, part of the orbit error can be absorbed by the clock bias and the effects of residual orbit error on positioning accuracy can be weakened by the evenly distributed satellite geometry. In consideration of the simple structure of pseudorange equations and the high precision of carrier-phase equations, the clock bias estimation method coupled with orbit error is also improved. Rovers obtain PPP results by receiving broadcast ephemeris and real-time satellite clock bias coupled with orbit error. By applying the proposed algorithm, the precise orbit products provided by GNSS analysis centers are rendered no longer necessary. On the basis of previous theoretical analysis, a real-time PPP system was developed. Some experiments were then designed to verify this algorithm. Experimental results show that the newly proposed approach performs better than the traditional PPP based on International GNSS Service (IGS) real-time products. The positioning accuracies of the rovers inside and outside the network are improved by 38.8% and 36.1%, respectively. The PPP convergence speeds are improved by up to 61.4% and 65.9%. The new approach can change the traditional PPP mode because of its advantages of independence, high positioning precision, and real-time performance. It could be an alternative solution for regional positioning service before global PPP service comes into operation. PMID:26205276

Radiation dose of cone-beam computed tomography compared to conventional radiographs in orthodontics.

PubMed

Signorelli, Luca; Patcas, Raphael; Peltomäki, Timo; Schätzle, Marc

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine radiation doses of different cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan modes in comparison to a conventional set of orthodontic radiographs (COR) by means of phantom dosimetry. Thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) chips (3 × 1 × 1 mm) were used on an adult male tissue-equivalent phantom to record the distribution of the absorbed radiation dose. Three different scanning modes (i.e., portrait, normal landscape, and fast scan landscape) were compared to CORs [i.e., conventional lateral (LC) and posteroanterior (PA) cephalograms and digital panoramic radiograph (OPG)]. The following radiation levels were measured: 131.7, 91, and 77 μSv in the portrait, normal landscape, and fast landscape modes, respectively. The overall effective dose for a COR was 35.81 μSv (PA: 8.90 μSv; OPG: 21.87 μSv; LC: 5.03 μSv). Although one CBCT scan may replace all CORs, one set of CORs still entails 2-4 times less radiation than one CBCT. Depending on the scan mode, the radiation dose of a CBCT is about 3-6 times an OPG, 8-14 times a PA, and 15-26 times a lateral LC. Finally, in order to fully reconstruct cephalograms including the cranial base and other important structures, the CBCT portrait mode must be chosen, rendering the difference in radiation exposure even clearer (131.7 vs. 35.81 μSv). Shielding radiation-sensitive organs can reduce the effective dose considerably. CBCT should not be recommended for use in all orthodontic patients as a substitute for a conventional set of radiographs. In CBCT, reducing the height of the field of view and shielding the thyroid are advisable methods and must be implemented to lower the exposure dose.

Repeatability of Retinal Sensitivity Measurements Using a Medmont Dark-Adapted Chromatic Perimeter in Healthy and Age-Related Macular Degeneration Cases.

PubMed

Tan, Rose S; Guymer, Robyn H; Luu, Chi D

2018-05-01

To determine the intrasession and intersession test-retest repeatability of retinal sensitivity measurements using a dark-adapted chromatic perimeter (DACP). For intrasession testing, retinal sensitivity within the central 24° for the 505-nm stimulus was measured after 20, 30, and 40 minutes of dark adaptation (DA) and for the 625-nm stimulus was measured after the first and second 505-nm tests. For intersession testing, retinal sensitivity for both stimuli was measured after 30 minutes of DA at baseline and 1 month. The point-wise sensitivity (PWS) difference and coefficient of repeatability (CoR) of each stimulus and group were determined. For intrasession testing, 10 age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and eight control subjects were recruited. The overall CoR for the 505-nm stimulus was 8.4 dB for control subjects and 9.1 dB for AMD cases, and for the 625-nm stimulus was 6.7 dB for control subjects and 9.5 dB for AMD cases. For intersession testing, seven AMD cases and 13 control subjects returned an overall CoR for the 505-nm stimulus of 8.2 dB for the control and 11.7 dB for the AMD group. For the 625-nm stimulus the CoR was 6.2 dB for the control group and 8.4 dB for the AMD group. Approximately 80% of all test points had a PWS difference of ±5 dB between the two intrasession or intersession measurements for both stimuli. The CoR for the DACP is larger than that reported for scotopic perimeters; however, the majority of test points had a PWS difference of ±5 dB between tests. The DACP offers an opportunity to measure static and dynamic rod function at multiple locations with an acceptable reproducibility level.

Mutations in the LRRK2 Roc-COR tandem domain link Parkinson's disease to Wnt signalling pathways.

PubMed

Sancho, Rosa M; Law, Bernard M H; Harvey, Kirsten

2009-10-15

Mutations in PARK8, encoding LRRK2, are the most common known cause of Parkinson's disease. The LRRK2 Roc-COR tandem domain exhibits GTPase activity controlling LRRK2 kinase activity via an intramolecular process. We report the interaction of LRRK2 with the dishevelled family of phosphoproteins (DVL1-3), key regulators of Wnt (Wingless/Int) signalling pathways important for axon guidance, synapse formation and neuronal maintenance. Interestingly, DVLs can interact with and mediate the activation of small GTPases with structural similarity to the LRRK2 Roc domain. The LRRK2 Roc-COR domain and the DVL1 DEP domain were necessary and sufficient for LRRK2-DVL1 interaction. Co-expression of DVL1 increased LRRK2 steady-state protein levels, an effect that was dependent on the DEP domain. Strikingly, LRRK2-DVL1-3 interactions were disrupted by the familial PARK8 mutation Y1699C, whereas pathogenic mutations at residues R1441 and R1728 strengthened LRRK2-DVL1 interactions. Co-expression of DVL1 with LRRK2 in mammalian cells resulted in the redistribution of LRRK2 to typical cytoplasmic DVL1 aggregates in HEK293 and SH-SY5Y cells and co-localization in neurites and growth cones of differentiated dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells. This is the first report of the modulation of a key LRRK2-accessory protein interaction by PARK8 Roc-COR domain mutations segregating with Parkinson's disease. Since the DVL1 DEP domain is known to be involved in the regulation of small GTPases, we propose that: (i) DVLs may influence LRRK2 GTPase activity, and (ii) Roc-COR domain mutations modulating LRRK2-DVL interactions indirectly influence kinase activity. Our findings also link LRRK2 to Wnt signalling pathways, suggesting novel pathogenic mechanisms and new targets for genetic analysis in Parkinson's disease.

Mutations in the LRRK2 Roc-COR tandem domain link Parkinson's disease to Wnt signalling pathways

PubMed Central

Sancho, Rosa M.; Law, Bernard M.H.; Harvey, Kirsten

2009-01-01

Mutations in PARK8, encoding LRRK2, are the most common known cause of Parkinson's disease. The LRRK2 Roc-COR tandem domain exhibits GTPase activity controlling LRRK2 kinase activity via an intramolecular process. We report the interaction of LRRK2 with the dishevelled family of phosphoproteins (DVL1-3), key regulators of Wnt (Wingless/Int) signalling pathways important for axon guidance, synapse formation and neuronal maintenance. Interestingly, DVLs can interact with and mediate the activation of small GTPases with structural similarity to the LRRK2 Roc domain. The LRRK2 Roc-COR domain and the DVL1 DEP domain were necessary and sufficient for LRRK2–DVL1 interaction. Co-expression of DVL1 increased LRRK2 steady-state protein levels, an effect that was dependent on the DEP domain. Strikingly, LRRK2–DVL1-3 interactions were disrupted by the familial PARK8 mutation Y1699C, whereas pathogenic mutations at residues R1441 and R1728 strengthened LRRK2–DVL1 interactions. Co-expression of DVL1 with LRRK2 in mammalian cells resulted in the redistribution of LRRK2 to typical cytoplasmic DVL1 aggregates in HEK293 and SH-SY5Y cells and co-localization in neurites and growth cones of differentiated dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells. This is the first report of the modulation of a key LRRK2-accessory protein interaction by PARK8 Roc-COR domain mutations segregating with Parkinson's disease. Since the DVL1 DEP domain is known to be involved in the regulation of small GTPases, we propose that: (i) DVLs may influence LRRK2 GTPase activity, and (ii) Roc-COR domain mutations modulating LRRK2–DVL interactions indirectly influence kinase activity. Our findings also link LRRK2 to Wnt signalling pathways, suggesting novel pathogenic mechanisms and new targets for genetic analysis in Parkinson's disease. PMID:19625296

Fractures as an independent predictor of functional decline in older people: a population-based study with an 8-year follow-up.

PubMed

Piirtola, Maarit; Löppönen, Minna; Vahlberg, Tero; Isoaho, Raimo; Kivelä, Sirkka-Liisa; Räihä, Ismo

2012-01-01

Fractures among older people are common, but there is scant evidence about the impact of fractures on functional decline in an unselected older population. The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of lower and upper body fractures on functional performance among older adults during an 8-year follow-up. A population-based cohort of 616 Finnish persons aged 65 and over was followed for up to 8 years, and the association between fractures and the risk of short-term (0-2 years) and long-term (up to 8 years) functional decline was analyzed. Fractures were categorized according their functional influence on mobility and activities of daily living (ADL) into lower and upper body fractures. Multivariate cumulative logistic regression model was used in the analyses. During the 8-year follow-up, 112 (18%) persons sustained at least one fracture. In the multivariate analyses, lower body fractures predicted both short-term and long-term decline in mobility [cumulative odds ratio (COR) 4.7, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.9-11.7 and COR 2.6, 95% CI 1.1-6.2, respectively] and in ADL performance (COR 3.1, 95% CI 1.3-7.6 and COR 4.7, 95% CI 2.0-11.4, respectively). Upper body fractures predicted decline in ADL performance during the long-term follow-up (COR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3-4.8). Pre-fracture functional decline and inactivity in leisure time physical exercise were independently associated with the risk of decline in extensive activities. Fractures have an independent influence on the development of functional decline in older persons regardless of the pre-fracture health. Prevention of falls and fractures and improvement of treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up process after fractures are needed. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

In vitro and in vivo characterization of hazelnut skin prick test extracts.

PubMed

Akkerdaas, Jaap H; Wensing, Marjolein; Knulst, André C; Aalberse, Rob C; Hefle, Susan L; van Ree, Ronald

2003-01-01

Hazelnut allergy ranks among the most frequently observed food allergies. Clinical symptoms range from the oral allergy syndrome to life threatening anaphylaxis. Diagnosis of hazelnut allergy partially relies on in vivo testing by means of skin prick testing (SPT). The aim of this study was to characterize hazelnut SPT extracts both in vitro and in vivo. Hazelnut SPT extracts were investigated for protein concentration and composition. The major hazelnut allergen Cor a 1, lipid transfer protein (LTP) and thaumatin-like-protein (TLP) were monitored by competitive RIA and immunoblotting. SPT extracts (n = 6) were analyzed for skin reactivity and the correlation between the SPT extract protein concentration and the mean skin reactivity (HEIC) was determined in a group of hazelnut-allergic patients (n = 30). For one SPT extract, the threshold level for Cor a 1 was determined in Cor a 1-monosensitized patients (n = 5). Protein concentrations ranged from 0.2-14 mg/ml. Although some proteins were present in most extracts (bands at 10, 22-28, 32 and around 48 kDa), clear differences in composition were observed (both intra- and inter-variability). The concentration of the major hazelnut allergen Cor a 1 differed up to a factor 50 (0.6-32 micrograms/ml). LTP was virtually absent in 3/9 SPT extracts and variable quantities of TLP were detected by immunoblotting. Some patients (6/30) had a false-negative SPT with 3/6 SPT extracts. There was a clear correlation between the protein concentration and the mean HEIC (RPearson = 0.87). The threshold level for Cor a 1 was +/- 3.2 ng/ml as assessed with one of the products investigated. Heterogeneous protein concentration/composition of SPT extracts results in variable skin test responses. The absence of potentially severe allergens like LTP may lead to false-negative SPT results that jeopardize a patient's safety. From these results it can be concluded that there is a strong need for standardization of products for SPT.

EUPOS - Satellite multifunctional system of reference stations in Central and Eastern Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sledzinski, J.

2003-04-01

The European project EUPOS (European Position Determination System) of establishment of a system of multifunctional satellite reference stations in Central and Eastern Europe is described in the paper. Fifteen countries intend to participate in the project: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovak Republic and Slovenia. One common project will be prepared for all countries, however it will include the existing or developed infrastructure in particular countries. The experiences of establishing and operating of the German network SAPOS as well as experiences gained by other countries will be used. The European network of stations will be compatible with the system SAPOS and future European system Galileo. The network of reference stations will provide signal for both positioning of the geodetic control points and for land, air and marine navigation. Several levels of positioning accuracy will be delivered.

Seasonal station variations in the Vienna VLBI terrestrial reference frame VieTRF16a

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krásná, Hana; Böhm, Johannes; Madzak, Matthias

2017-04-01

The special analysis center of the International Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) Service for Geodesy and Astrometry (IVS) at TU Wien (VIE) routinely analyses the VLBI measurements and estimates its own Terrestrial Reference Frame (TRF) solutions. We present our latest solution VieTRF16a (1979.0 - 2016.5) computed with the software VieVS version 3.0. Several recent updates of the software have been applied, e.g., the estimation of annual and semi-annual station variations as global parameters. The VieTRF16a is determined in the form of the conventional model (station position and its linear velocity) simultaneously with the celestial reference frame and Earth orientation parameters. In this work, we concentrate on the seasonal station variations in the residual time series and compare our TRF with the three combined TRF solutions ITRF2014, DTRF2014 and JTRF2014.

Impact of seasonal and postglacial surface displacement on global reference frames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krásná, Hana; Böhm, Johannes; King, Matt; Memin, Anthony; Shabala, Stanislav; Watson, Christopher

2014-05-01

The calculation of actual station positions requires several corrections which are partly recommended by the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) Conventions (e.g., solid Earth tides and ocean tidal loading) as well as other corrections, e.g. accounting for hydrology and atmospheric loading. To investigate the pattern of omitted non-linear seasonal motion we estimated empirical harmonic models for selected stations within a global solution of suitable Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) sessions as well as mean annual models by stacking yearly time series of station positions. To validate these models we compare them to displacement series obtained from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) data and to hydrology corrections determined from global models. Furthermore, we assess the impact of the seasonal station motions on the celestial reference frame as well as on Earth orientation parameters derived from real and also artificial VLBI observations. In the second part of the presentation we apply vertical rates of the ICE-5G_VM2_2012 vertical land movement grid on vertical station velocities. We assess the impact of postglacial uplift on the variability in the scale given different sampling of the postglacial signal in time and hence on the uncertainty in the scale rate of the estimated terrestrial reference frame.

Cultural Resources Investigation: Boscobel Flood Control Project along Sanders Creek, Grant County, Wisconsin.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-19

and, as a ’ result, was not collected. %_% Iodern historic materials such as ceramic drain tile and broken bottle glass were found eroding out of the...spike fragment; six pieces of aluminum foil; one cinder; two mortar fragments; one black rubber fragment; seven unglazed red ceramic tile fragments...meas.,e atB’We,~isconsin. 4.~~~ p~ hs vst ~:z artial v itil~ilis the oo.igations o4 the Cor~s Enginee-s :orps: regarding cultjural resources, as set

The Effect of Marginal Seal of Veneering DiCor (trade name) Substrates with DiCor Plus Porcelain

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-05-01

the Faculty of The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at San Antonio in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements LT’ for the...EFFECT ON MARGINAL SEAL OF VENEERING Dicor® SUBSTRATES WITH Dicor® PLUS PORCELAIN Regan Salamander, M.S. The University of Texas Graduate School of...Conversely, fatigue in ceramics is the subcritical growth of cracks aided by a combined influence of water and stress . It has been estimated that fatigue

Observations of the star Cor Caroli at the Apple Valley Workshop 2016

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Estrada, Reed; Boyd, Sidney; Estrada, Chris; Evans, Cody; Rhoades, Hannah; Rhoades, Mark; Rhoades, Trevor

2017-06-01

Using a 22-inch Newtonian Alt/Az telescope and Celestron Micro Guide eyepiece, students participating in a workshop observed the binary star Cor Caroli (STF 1692) and found a position angle of 231.0 degrees as well as an average separation of 18.7" This observation compared favorably with the 2015 Washington Double Star published position. This project was part of Mark Brewer's Apple Valley Double Star Workshop. The results were analyzed using bias and circle error probability calculations.

Indoor transformer stations as predictors of residential ELF magnetic field exposure.

PubMed

Ilonen, K; Markkanen, A; Mezei, G; Juutilainen, Jukka

2008-04-01

Transformer stations in apartment buildings may offer a possibility to conduct epidemiological studies that involve high exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (MF), avoid selection bias and minimize confounding factors. To validate exposure assessment based on transformer stations, measurements were performed in thirty buildings in three Finnish cities. In each building, spot measurements in all rooms and a 24-h recording in a bedroom were performed in one apartment above a transformer station (AAT), in one first floor (FF) reference apartment, and one reference apartment on upper floors (UF). The apartment mean of spot measurements was 0.62 microT in the AATs, 0.21 microT in the FF and 0.11 microT in the UF reference apartments The 24-h apartment mean (estimated from the spot measurements and the bedroom 24-h recording) was 0.2 microT or higher in 29 (97%) AATs, in 7 (25%) FF and in 3 (10 %) UF reference apartments. The corresponding numbers for the 0.4 microT cut-off point were 19 (63%), 4 (14%), and 1 (3.3%). The higher MF level in the FF reference apartments indicates that they should not be considered "unexposed" in epidemiological studies. If such apartments are excluded, a transformer station under the floor predicts 24-h apartment mean MF with a sensitivity of 0.41 (or 0.58) and a specificity of 0.997 (or 0.97), depending on the MF cut-off point (0.2 or 0.4 microT). The results indicate that apartments can be reliably classified as high and low MF field categories based on the known location of transformer stations. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Space Station Biological Research Project: Reference Experiment Book

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Catherine (Editor); Wade, Charles (Editor)

1996-01-01

The Space Station Biological Research Project (SSBRP), which is the combined efforts of the Centrifuge Facility (CF) and the Gravitational Biology Facility (GBF), is responsible for the development of life sciences hardware to be used on the International Space Station to support cell, developmental, and plant biology research. The SSBRP Reference Experiment Book was developed to use as a tool for guiding this development effort. The reference experiments characterize the research interests of the international scientific community and serve to identify the hardware capabilities and support equipment needed to support such research. The reference experiments also serve as a tool for understanding the operational aspects of conducting research on board the Space Station. This material was generated by the science community by way of their responses to reference experiment solicitation packages sent to them by SSBRP scientists. The solicitation process was executed in two phases. The first phase was completed in February of 1992 and the second phase completed in November of 1995. Representing these phases, the document is subdivided into a Section 1 and a Section 2. The reference experiments contained in this document are only representative microgravity experiments. They are not intended to define actual flight experiments. Ground and flight experiments will be selected through the formal NASA Research Announcement (NRA) and Announcement of Opportunity (AO) experiment solicitation, review, and selection process.

Significant HLA class I type associations with aromatic antiepileptic drug (AED)-induced SJS/TEN are different from those found for the same AED-induced DRESS in the Spanish population.

PubMed

Ramírez, Elena; Bellón, Teresa; Tong, Hoi Y; Borobia, Alberto M; de Abajo, Francisco J; Lerma, Victoria; Moreno Hidalgo, Miguel A; Castañer, José L; Cabañas, Rosario; Fiandor, Ana; González-Ramos, Jessica; Herranz, Pedro; Cachafeiro, Lucía; González-Herrada, Carlos; González, Olga; Aramburu, José A; Laosa, Olga; Hernández, Rafael; Carcas, Antonio J; Frías, Jesús

2017-01-01

Aromatic antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are among the drugs most frequently involved in severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). This study investigated the associations between the genetic polymorphisms of HLA class-I and AED-induced SCARs in the Spanish population. HLA class-I genotypes were determined in AED (phenytoin[PHT],lamotrigine[LTG],carbamazepine[CBZ],phenobarbital[PB])-induced SJS/TEN (n=15) or DRESS (n=12) cases included in the Spanish SCAR registry, PIELenRed. There were 3 control groups: (A)tolerant to a single AED, (B)tolerant to any AED, and (C)Spanish population controls. For SJS/TEN, concomitant HLA-A*02:01/Cw15:02 alleles were significantly associated with PHT-cases compared to control groups B and C [(B)odds ratio(OR):14.75, p=0.009;(C)OR:27.50, p<0.001], and were close to significance with respect to control group A (p=0.060). The genotype frequency of the HLA-B*38:01 was significantly associated with PHT-LTG-cases compared with the 3 groups of controls [(A)OR:12.86, p=0.012;(B)OR:13.81; p=0.002;(C)OR:14.35, p<0.001], and with LTG-cases [(A)OR:147.00, p=0.001;(B)OR:115.00, p<0.001;(C)OR:124.70, p<0.001]. We found the HLA-B*15:02 allele in a Spanish Romani patient with a CBZ-case. The HLA-A*11:01 was significantly associated with CBZ-cases [(A)OR:63.89, p=0.002;(B)OR:36.33, p=0.005;(C)OR:28.29, p=0.007]. For DRESS, the HLA-A*24:02 genotype frequency was statistically significant in the PHT-LTG-cases [(A)OR:22.56, p=0.003;(B)OR:23.50. p=0.001; (C)OR:33.25, p<0.001], and in the LTG-cases [(A),OR:49.00, p=0.015;(B)OR:27.77, p=0.005; (C)OR:34.53, p=0.002]. HLA-A*31:01 was significantly associated with the CBZ-cases [(A)OR:22.00, p=0.047;(B)OR:29.50, p=0.033;(C)OR:35.14, p=0.006]. In conclusion, we identified several significant genetic risk factors for the first time in the Spanish Caucasian population: HLA-A*02:01/Cw*15:02 combination as a risk factor for PHT-induced SJS/TEN, HLA-B*38:01 for LTG- and PHT- induced SJS/TEN, HLA-A*11:01 for CBZ-induced SJS/TEN, and HLA-A*24:02 for LTG- and PHT- induced DRESS. The strong association between HLA*31:01 and CBZ-DRESS in Europeans was confirmed in this study. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Novel Metal Cation Resistance Systems from Mutant Fitness Analysis of Denitrifying Pseudomonas stutzeri

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

Vaccaro, Brian J.; Lancaster, W. Andrew; Thorgersen, Michael P.

Metal ion transport systems have been studied extensively, but the specificity of a given transporter is often unclear from amino acid sequence data alone. In this study, predicted Cu 2+ and Zn 2+ resistance systems in Pseudomonas stutzeri strain RCH2 are compared with those experimentally implicated in Cu 2+and Zn 2+resistance, as determined by using a DNA-barcoded transposon mutant library. Mutant fitness data obtained under denitrifying conditions are combined with regulon predictions to yield a much more comprehensive picture of Cu 2+and Zn 2+resistance in strain RCH2. The results not only considerably expand what is known about well-established metal ionmore » exporters (CzcCBA, CzcD, and CusCBA) and their accessory proteins (CzcI and CusF), they also reveal that isolates with mutations in some predicted Cu 2+ resistance systems do not show decreased fitness relative to the wild type when exposed to Cu 2+. In addition, new genes are identified that have no known connection to Zn 2+(corB,corC, Psest_3226, Psest_3322, and Psest_0618) or Cu 2+resistance (Mrp antiporter subunit gene, Psest_2850, and Psest_0584) but are crucial for resistance to these metal cations. Growth of individual deletion mutants lackingcorB,corC, Psest_3226, or Psest_3322 confirmed the observed Zn-dependent phenotypes. Notably, to our knowledge, this is the first time a bacterial homolog of TMEM165, a human gene responsible for a congenital glycosylation disorder, has been deleted and the resulting strain characterized. Finally, the fitness values indicate Cu 2+- and Zn 2+ -based inhibition of nitrite reductase and interference with molybdenum cofactor biosynthesis for nitrate reductase. These results extend the current understanding of Cu 2+ and Zn 2+ efflux and resistance and their effects on denitrifying metabolism. Here in this study, genome-wide mutant fitness data in P. stutzeriRCH2 combined with regulon predictions identify several proteins of unknown function that are involved in resisting zinc and copper toxicity. For zinc, these include a member of the UPF0016 protein family that was previously implicated in Ca 2+/H +antiport and a human congenital glycosylation disorder, CorB and CorC, which were previously linked to Mg 2+transport, and Psest_3322 and Psest_0618, two proteins with no characterized homologs. Experiments using mutants lacking Psest_3226, Psest_3322,corB,corC, or czcI verified their proposed functions, which will enable future studies of these little-characterized zinc resistance determinants. Likewise, Psest_2850, annotated as an ion antiporter subunit, and the conserved hypothetical protein Psest_0584 are implicated in copper resistance. Physiological connections between previous studies and phenotypes presented here are discussed. Functional and mechanistic understanding of transport proteins improves the understanding of systems in which members of the same protein family, including those in humans, can have different functions.« less

Novel Metal Cation Resistance Systems from Mutant Fitness Analysis of Denitrifying Pseudomonas stutzeri

DOE PAGES

Vaccaro, Brian J.; Lancaster, W. Andrew; Thorgersen, Michael P.; ...

2016-07-29

Metal ion transport systems have been studied extensively, but the specificity of a given transporter is often unclear from amino acid sequence data alone. In this study, predicted Cu 2+ and Zn 2+ resistance systems in Pseudomonas stutzeri strain RCH2 are compared with those experimentally implicated in Cu 2+and Zn 2+resistance, as determined by using a DNA-barcoded transposon mutant library. Mutant fitness data obtained under denitrifying conditions are combined with regulon predictions to yield a much more comprehensive picture of Cu 2+and Zn 2+resistance in strain RCH2. The results not only considerably expand what is known about well-established metal ionmore » exporters (CzcCBA, CzcD, and CusCBA) and their accessory proteins (CzcI and CusF), they also reveal that isolates with mutations in some predicted Cu 2+ resistance systems do not show decreased fitness relative to the wild type when exposed to Cu 2+. In addition, new genes are identified that have no known connection to Zn 2+(corB,corC, Psest_3226, Psest_3322, and Psest_0618) or Cu 2+resistance (Mrp antiporter subunit gene, Psest_2850, and Psest_0584) but are crucial for resistance to these metal cations. Growth of individual deletion mutants lackingcorB,corC, Psest_3226, or Psest_3322 confirmed the observed Zn-dependent phenotypes. Notably, to our knowledge, this is the first time a bacterial homolog of TMEM165, a human gene responsible for a congenital glycosylation disorder, has been deleted and the resulting strain characterized. Finally, the fitness values indicate Cu 2+- and Zn 2+ -based inhibition of nitrite reductase and interference with molybdenum cofactor biosynthesis for nitrate reductase. These results extend the current understanding of Cu 2+ and Zn 2+ efflux and resistance and their effects on denitrifying metabolism. Here in this study, genome-wide mutant fitness data in P. stutzeriRCH2 combined with regulon predictions identify several proteins of unknown function that are involved in resisting zinc and copper toxicity. For zinc, these include a member of the UPF0016 protein family that was previously implicated in Ca 2+/H +antiport and a human congenital glycosylation disorder, CorB and CorC, which were previously linked to Mg 2+transport, and Psest_3322 and Psest_0618, two proteins with no characterized homologs. Experiments using mutants lacking Psest_3226, Psest_3322,corB,corC, or czcI verified their proposed functions, which will enable future studies of these little-characterized zinc resistance determinants. Likewise, Psest_2850, annotated as an ion antiporter subunit, and the conserved hypothetical protein Psest_0584 are implicated in copper resistance. Physiological connections between previous studies and phenotypes presented here are discussed. Functional and mechanistic understanding of transport proteins improves the understanding of systems in which members of the same protein family, including those in humans, can have different functions.« less

Automation of Precise Time Reference Stations (PTRS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wheeler, P. J.

1985-04-01

The U.S. Naval Observatory is presently engaged in a program of automating precise time stations (PTS) and precise time reference stations (PTBS) by using a versatile mini-computer controlled data acquisition system (DAS). The data acquisition system is configured to monitor locally available PTTI signals such as LORAN-C, OMEGA, and/or the Global Positioning System. In addition, the DAS performs local standard intercomparison. Computer telephone communications provide automatic data transfer to the Naval Observatory. Subsequently, after analysis of the data, results and information can be sent back to the precise time reference station to provide automatic control of remote station timing. The DAS configuration is designed around state of the art standard industrial high reliability modules. The system integration and software are standardized but allow considerable flexibility to satisfy special local requirements such as stability measurements, performance evaluation and printing of messages and certificates. The DAS operates completely independently and may be queried or controlled at any time with a computer or terminal device (control is protected for use by authorized personnel only). Such DAS equipped PTS are operational in Hawaii, California, Texas and Florida.

Chemical and biological assessment of two offshore drilling sites in the Alaskan Arctic.

PubMed

Trefry, John H; Dunton, Kenneth H; Trocine, Robert P; Schonberg, Susan V; McTigue, Nathan D; Hersh, Eric S; McDonald, Thomas J

2013-05-01

A retrospective chemical and biological study was carried out in Camden Bay, Alaskan Beaufort Sea, where single exploratory oil wells were drilled at two sites more than two decades ago. Barium from discharged drilling mud was present in sediments at concentrations as high as 14%, ~200 times above background, with significantly higher concentrations of Ba, but not other metals, within 250 m of the drilling site versus reference stations. Elevated concentrations of Cr, Cu, Hg and Pb were found only at two stations within 25 m of one drilling site. Concentrations of total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (TPAH) were not significantly different at reference versus drilling-site stations; however, TPAH were elevated in Ba-rich layers from naturally occurring perylene in ancient formation cuttings. Infaunal biomass and species abundance were not significantly different at reference versus drilling-site stations; infauna were less diverse at drilling-site stations. Our assessment showed that discharges from single wells within large areas caused minimal long-term, adverse impacts to the benthic ecosystem. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Position of the station Borowiec in the Doppler observation campaign WEDOC 80

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pachelski, W.

The position of the Doppler antenna located at the Borowiec Observatory, Poland, is analyzed based on data gathered during the WEDOC 80 study and an earlier study in 1977. Among other findings, it is determined that biases of the reference system origin can be partially eliminated by transforming absolute coordinates of two or more stations into station-to-station vector components, and by determining the vector length while the system scale remains affected by broadcast ephemerides. The standard deviations of absolute coordinates are shown to represent only the internal accuracy of the solution, and are found to depend on the geometrical configuration between the station position and the satellite passes. It is shown that significant correlations between station coordinates in translocation or multilocation are due to the poor conditioning of design matrices with respect to the origin and orientation of the reference system.

Preferential superior surface motion in wear simulations of the Charité total disc replacement.

PubMed

Goreham-Voss, Curtis M; Vicars, Rachel; Hall, Richard M; Brown, Thomas D

2012-06-01

Laboratory wear simulations of the dual-bearing surface Charité total disc replacement (TDR) are complicated by the non-specificity of the device's center of rotation (CoR). Previous studies have suggested that articulation of the Charité preferentially occurs at the superior-bearing surface, although it is not clear how sensitive this phenomenon is to lubrication conditions or CoR location. In this study, a computational wear model is used to study the articulation kinematics and wear of the Charité TDR. Implant wear was found to be insensitive to the CoR location, although seemingly non-physiologic endplate motion can result. Articulation and wear were biased significantly to the superior-bearing surface, even in the presence of significant perturbations of loading and friction. The computational wear model provides novel insight into the mechanics and wear of the Charité TDR, allowing for better interpretation of in vivo results, and giving useful insight for designing future laboratory physical tests.

Sex differences in chronic cor pulmonale in delhi.

PubMed

Padmavati, S; Arora, R

1976-10-01

Chronic cor pulmonale is more prevalent in northern India than in the south. It is equally common in men and in women and accounts for 20% of all admissions for heart disorder in Delhi. In a study of 766 patients (239 men and 527 women) carried out over a 15-year period there were some striking sex differences. Some 75% of men and 10% of women smoked. The women came from the poorest class and all of them cooked from an early age over smoky and primitive fireplaces in ill-ventilated huts, while only 7% of the men cooked their own food. Chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis were the commonest associated lung disorders in both sexes. The women developed heart failure 10-15 years earlier and showed more severe congestive failure with larger hearts and greater derangement of pulmonary function. It is concluded that the cause of chronic cor pulmonale in women in Delhi was damage to the lungs from exposure to smoky cooking fuels from girlhood onwards, followed by repeated chest infections.

Deposits in artificial corneas: risk factors and prevention.

PubMed

Hicks, Celia R; Chirila, Traian V; Werner, Liliana; Crawford, Geoffrey J; Apple, David J; Constable, Ian J

2004-04-01

To identify risk factors for calcium deposition and pigmented staining within AlphaCor artificial corneas. Retrospective analysis of data from 72 AlphaCor implantations was conducted. Histological analysis of explants was performed. Eight cases of either intraoptic calcium or pigment deposition occurred in AlphaCor patients between 2.5 and 21 months after implantation. Four cases had diffuse white deposits, confirmed to be calcium and associated with prior coadministration of topical steroids and beta-blockers. The other four cases had brown deposits, associated with cigarette smoking and topical levobunolol. These findings led to changes in patient management protocols, surgeon training and patient information so as to minimize the risk of further occurrences. No further cases of white deposition have occurred after warning surgeons of the risk associated with certain topical therapy combinations. The risk of brown staining may be difficult to remove completely as it appears that environmental exposure to chemicals may cause deposition in addition to personal smoking habits and topical medications.

Hydrophobic Gating of Ion Permeation in Magnesium Channel CorA

PubMed Central

Neale, Chris; Chakrabarti, Nilmadhab; Pomorski, Pawel; Pai, Emil F.; Pomès, Régis

2015-01-01

Ion channels catalyze ionic permeation across membranes via water-filled pores. To understand how changes in intracellular magnesium concentration regulate the influx of Mg2+ into cells, we examine early events in the relaxation of Mg2+ channel CorA toward its open state using massively-repeated molecular dynamics simulations conducted either with or without regulatory ions. The pore of CorA contains a 2-nm-long hydrophobic bottleneck which remained dehydrated in most simulations. However, rapid hydration or “wetting” events concurrent with small-amplitude fluctuations in pore diameter occurred spontaneously and reversibly. In the absence of regulatory ions, wetting transitions are more likely and include a wet state that is significantly more stable and more hydrated. The free energy profile for Mg2+ permeation presents a barrier whose magnitude is anticorrelated to pore diameter and the extent of hydrophobic hydration. These findings support an allosteric mechanism whereby wetting of a hydrophobic gate couples changes in intracellular magnesium concentration to the onset of ionic conduction. PMID:26181442

Cockpit Ocular Recording System (CORS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rothenheber, Edward; Stokes, James; Lagrossa, Charles; Arnold, William; Dick, A. O.

1990-01-01

The overall goal was the development of a Cockpit Ocular Recording System (CORS). Four tasks were used: (1) the development of the system; (2) the experimentation and improvement of the system; (3) demonstrations of the working system; and (4) system documentation. Overall, the prototype represents a workable and flexibly designed CORS system. For the most part, the hardware use for the prototype system is off-the-shelf. All of the following software was developed specifically: (1) setup software that the user specifies the cockpit configuration and identifies possible areas in which the pilot will look; (2) sensing software which integrates the 60 Hz data from the oculometer and heat orientation sensing unit; (3) processing software which applies a spatiotemporal filter to the lookpoint data to determine fixation/dwell positions; (4) data recording output routines; and (5) playback software which allows the user to retrieve and analyze the data. Several experiments were performed to verify the system accuracy and quantify system deficiencies. These tests resulted in recommendations for any future system that might be constructed.

Hydrophobic Gating of Ion Permeation in Magnesium Channel CorA.

PubMed

Neale, Chris; Chakrabarti, Nilmadhab; Pomorski, Pawel; Pai, Emil F; Pomès, Régis

2015-07-01

Ion channels catalyze ionic permeation across membranes via water-filled pores. To understand how changes in intracellular magnesium concentration regulate the influx of Mg2+ into cells, we examine early events in the relaxation of Mg2+ channel CorA toward its open state using massively-repeated molecular dynamics simulations conducted either with or without regulatory ions. The pore of CorA contains a 2-nm-long hydrophobic bottleneck which remained dehydrated in most simulations. However, rapid hydration or "wetting" events concurrent with small-amplitude fluctuations in pore diameter occurred spontaneously and reversibly. In the absence of regulatory ions, wetting transitions are more likely and include a wet state that is significantly more stable and more hydrated. The free energy profile for Mg2+ permeation presents a barrier whose magnitude is anticorrelated to pore diameter and the extent of hydrophobic hydration. These findings support an allosteric mechanism whereby wetting of a hydrophobic gate couples changes in intracellular magnesium concentration to the onset of ionic conduction.

Structural Dynamics of the Magnesium-bound Conformation of CorA in a lipid bilayer

PubMed Central

Dalmas, Olivier; Cuello, Luis G.; Jogini, Vishwanath; Cortes, D. Marien; Roux, Benoit; Perozo, Eduardo

2010-01-01

Summary The transmembrane conformation of Thermotoga maritima CorA, a Magnesium transport system, has been studied in it’s Mg2+-bound form by site-directed spin labeling and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Probe mobility together with accessibility data were used to evaluate the overall dynamics and relative arrangement of individual transmembrane segments TM1 and TM2. TM1 extends toward the cytoplasmic side creating a water filled cavity, while TM2 is located in the periphery of the oligomer, contacting the lipid bilayer. A structural model for the conserved extracellular loop was generated based on EPR data and MD simulations, in which residue E316 is located towards the fivefold symmetry axis in position to electrostatically influence divalent ion translocation. Electrostatic analyses of our model suggest that, in agreement with the crystal structure, Mg2+ -bound CorA is in a close conformation. The present results suggest that long-range structural rearrangements are necessary to allow Mg2+ translocation. PMID:20637423

Marine macroalgal community structure, metal content and reproductive function near an acid mine drainage outflow.

PubMed

Marsden, A D; DeWreede, R E

2000-12-01

Marine macroalgal communities were examined near the outflow of acid mine drainage (AMD) from the Britannia Mine, British Columbia, Canada. No marine algae were present within 100 m of the mouth of Britannia Creek, which carries the AMD into the marine environment. At greater distances (300-700 m) from this Creek, mean summer cover of filamentous green algae, mostly Enteromorpha intestinalis, was >60%, which was significantly higher than at nearby reference stations. At still greater distances (600-1000 m) from Britannia Creek, Fucus gardneri dominated algal communities that were similar to those at reference stations. No consistent differences were detected in mean plant length, mean per cent cover or mean oocyte production between F. gardneri near Britannia Creek and those at reference stations. Cu body burden in F. gardneri near Britannia Creek was five to 17 times higher than in reference plants.

Proarrhythmia risk prediction using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

Yamazaki, Daiju; Kitaguchi, Takashi; Ishimura, Masakazu; Taniguchi, Tomohiko; Yamanishi, Atsuhiro; Saji, Daisuke; Takahashi, Etsushi; Oguchi, Masao; Moriyama, Yuta; Maeda, Sanae; Miyamoto, Kaori; Morimura, Kaoru; Ohnaka, Hiroki; Tashibu, Hiroyuki; Sekino, Yuko; Miyamoto, Norimasa; Kanda, Yasunari

2018-04-01

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) are expected to become a useful tool for proarrhythmia risk prediction in the non-clinical drug development phase. Several features including electrophysiological properties, ion channel expression profile and drug responses were investigated using commercially available hiPSC-CMs, such as iCell-CMs and Cor.4U-CMs. Although drug-induced arrhythmia has been extensively examined by microelectrode array (MEA) assays in iCell-CMs, it has not been fully understood an availability of Cor.4U-CMs for proarrhythmia risk. Here, we evaluated the predictivity of proarrhythmia risk using Cor.4U-CMs. MEA assay revealed linear regression between inter-spike interval and field potential duration (FPD). The hERG inhibitor E-4031 induced reverse-use dependent FPD prolongation. We next evaluated the proarrhythmia risk prediction by a two-dimensional map, which we have previously proposed. We determined the relative torsade de pointes risk score, based on the extent of FPD with Fridericia's correction (FPDcF) change and early afterdepolarization occurrence, and calculated the margins normalized to free effective therapeutic plasma concentrations. The drugs were classified into three risk groups using the two-dimensional map. This risk-categorization system showed high concordance with the torsadogenic information obtained by a public database CredibleMeds. Taken together, these results indicate that Cor.4U-CMs can be used for drug-induced proarrhythmia risk prediction. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of answers to orthopaedic in-training examination questions in 3 commonly used orthopedic review sources.

PubMed

Krueger, Chad A; Shakir, Irshad; Fuller, Brian C

2012-09-01

One of the greatest predictors for resident success on the Orthopaedic In-Training Examination (OITE) is reviewing previous OITE questions. However, no studies have examined which review sources contain the most answers to previously asked OITE questions. The goal of this study was to determine which review source contains the most answers to previously asked OITE questions. Each question from the 2006 to 2010 OITEs was examined. The questions were placed into 1 of 13 categories based on their topic. The publication date of the recommended readings associated with each question was recorded. The answer to each question was then searched for in 3 commonly used review sources: Miller's Review of Orthopaedics, 5th edition (MRO), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review (COR), and www.orthobullets.com (OB). Searchable electronic versions of each textbook were used, and each question had a 12-minute time limit. Of 1358 questions, 665 (49%) were found in all 3 sources. Significantly more answers were found on OB (99.4%) compared with MRO (60%) and COR (62%) (P<.0001). Significantly more answers to questions in each question category were found on OB compared with MRO or COR (P<.0001). More than 50% of all recommended readings for OITE questions were published within 5 years of the OITE. Residents using OB to review for the OITE will be exposed to significantly more answers of previously asked OITE questions than residents using MRO or COR (P<.0001). Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.

Using Coworker Observations to Promote Accountability for Disrespectful and Unsafe Behaviors by Physicians and Advanced Practice Professionals.

PubMed

Webb, Lynn E; Dmochowski, Roger R; Moore, Ilene N; Pichert, James W; Catron, Thomas F; Troyer, Michelle; Martinez, William; Cooper, William O; Hickson, Gerald B

2016-04-01

Health care team members are well positioned to observe disrespectful and unsafe conduct-behaviors known to undermine team function. Based on experience in sharing patient complaints with physicians who subsequently achieved decreased complaints and malpractice risk, Vanderbilt University Medical Center developed and assessed the feasibility of the Co-Worker Observation Reporting System(SM) (CORS (SM)) for addressing coworkers' reported concerns. VUMC leaders used a "Project Bundle" readiness assessment, which entailed identification and development of key people, organizational supports, and systems. Methods involved gaining leadership buy-in, recruiting and training key individuals, aligning the project with organizational values and policies, promoting reporting, monitoring reports, and employing a tiered intervention process to address reported coworker concerns. Peer messengers shared coworker reports with the physicians and advanced practice professionals associated with at least one report 84% of the time. Since CORS inception, 3% of the medical staff was associated with a pattern of CORS reports, and 71% of recipients of pattern-related interventions were not named in any subsequent reports in a one-year follow-up period. Systematic monitoring of documented co-worker observations about unprofessional conduct and sharing that information with involved professionals are feasible. Feasibility requires organizationwide implementation; co-workers willing and able to share respectful, nonjudgmental, timely feedback designed initially to encourage self-reflection; and leadership committed to be more directive if needed. Follow-up surveillance indicates that the majority of professionals "self-regulate" after receiving CORS data.

Hormonal responses of pilots to training flights: the effects of experience on apparent stress.

PubMed

Otsuka, Yasutami; Onozawa, Akihiko; Miyamoto, Yoshinori

2006-04-01

The levels of urinary noradrenaline (NAd), adrenaline (Ad) and salivary cortisol (Cor) were determined in student and instructor pilots during Phase 1 (training with propeller engine; PH1), and Phase 2 (training with jet engine; PH2) flight training. The subjects in PH1 were 30 students and 33 instructors, and in PH2 were 17 students and 15 instructors. Urine and saliva were collected approximately 30 min before and 20 min after the flights. The ratio (post/preflight) of the hormonal levels was calculated to compare the students with the instructors and/or PH1 with PH2. In PH1, the levels of all three hormones for postflight were significantly higher than for preflight in students, and the ratios of all three hormones in students were significantly higher than in instructors. In PH2, the ratios of all three hormones for students and instructors did not differ significantly, and the ratios of Ad and Cor levels in students for PH2 were significantly lower than for PH1 (Ad: 1.64 +/- 0.10 vs. 2.23 +/- 0.14; Cor: 0.86 +/- 0.16 vs. 1.68 +/- 0.11, respectively). The results from PH1 clearly demonstrated that flight stress for students was significantly higher than for instructors. The ratios might be regarded as result of adaptation to flight stress in students. We conclude that the ratios of Ad and Cor levels are a good indicator of stress coping in student pilots.

Integrating clinical performance improvement across physician organizations: the PhyCor experience.

PubMed

Loeppke, R; Howell, J W

1999-02-01

There is a paucity of literature describing the implementation of clinical performance improvement (CPI) efforts across geographically dispersed multispecialty group practices and independent practice associations. PhyCor, a physician management company based in Nashville, Tennessee, has integrated CPI initiatives into its operating infrastructure. PhyCor CPI INITIATIVES: The strategic framework guiding PhyCor's CPI initiatives is built around a physician-driven, patient-centered model. Physician/administrator leadership teams develop and implement a clinical and financial strategic plan for performance improvement; adopt local clinical and operational performance indicators; and agree on and gain consensus with local physician champions to engage in CPI initiatives. The area/regional leadership councils integrate and coordinate regional medical management and CPI initiatives among local groups and independent practice associations. In addition to these councils and a national leadership council, condition-specific care management councils have also been established. These councils develop condition-specific protocols and outcome measures and lead the implementation of CPI initiatives at their own clinics. Key resources supporting CPI initiatives include information/knowledge management, education and training, and patient education and consumer decision support. Localized efforts in both the asthma care and diabetes management initiatives have led to some preliminary improvements in quality of care indicators. Physician leadership and strategic vision, CPI-oriented organizational infrastructure, broad-based physician involvement in CPI, providing access to performance data, parallel incentives, and creating a sense of urgency for accelerated change are all critical success factors to the implementation of CPI strategies at the local, regional, and national levels.

Effects of nutrient enrichment derived from fish farming activities on macroinvertebrate assemblages in a subtropical region of Hong Kong.

PubMed

Gao, Qin-Feng; Cheung, Kwok-Leung; Cheung, Siu-Gin; Shin, Paul K S

2005-01-01

To study the correlation between nutrient enrichment derived from fish farming activities and changes in macrobenthic assemblages, a one-year field study was conducted in Kau Sai Bay marine fish culture zone of Hong Kong. Bimonthly sediment samples were collected at six stations: two at the fish cages, two near the boundary of the fish culture area, and two reference sites further away from the culture area. Sediment physico-chemical characteristics in terms of silt/clay fraction, moisture content, total organic carbon (TOC), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and total phosphorus (TP) were analyzed. The macrobenthos (>0.5 mm) present in the sediment were sorted, identified and enumerated. On average, TOC, TKN and TP levels at the fish cage stations were 82.8%, 128.5% and 1315.7% higher than those at the reference stations, respectively. As a result, the N:P molar ratio was greatly reduced from 8.75 at the reference stations to 1.83 at the fish cage stations. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that diversity of macrofauna was significantly reduced and community structure differed at the fish cage stations relative to the reference sites. The intermediary stations near the fish culture area showed a transitional state of disturbance. Faunal diversity was negatively correlated with nutrient level, reflecting the adverse impacts of nutrient enrichment derived from fish farming activities on the benthic assemblages. Whilst in subtropical Asia-Pacific trash fish is the major feed for fish culture resulting in a higher nutrient loading and nutrient ratio accumulated in the sediment beneath the fish rafts, the effects of nutrient enrichment on macrobenthic assemblages are comparable to that in temperate waters owing to relatively high sediment metabolism rate and smaller fish culture scale in Hong Kong.

Type II Radio Bursts Observed by STEREO/Waves and Wind/Waves instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krupar, V.; Magdalenic, J.; Zhukov, A.; Rodriguez, L.; Mierla, M.; Maksimovic, M.; Cecconi, B.; Santolik, O.

2013-12-01

Type II radio bursts are slow-drift emissions triggered by suprathermal electrons accelerated on shock fronts of propagating CMEs. We present several events at kilometric wavelengths observed by radio instruments onboard the STEREO and Wind spacecraft. The STEREO/Waves and Wind/Waves have goniopolarimetric (GP, also referred to as direction finding) capabilities that allow us to triangulate radio sources when an emission is observed by two or more spacecraft. As the GP inversion has high requirements on the signal-to-noise ratio we only have a few type II radio bursts with sufficient intensity for this analysis. We have compared obtained radio sources with white-light observations of STEREO/COR and STEREO/HI instruments. Our preliminary results indicate that radio sources are located at flanks of propagating CMEs.

Nearshore coastal bathymetry data collected in 2016 from West Ship Island to Horn Island, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Mississippi

USGS Publications Warehouse

DeWitt, Nancy T.; Stalk, Chelsea A.; Fredericks, Jake J.; Flocks, James G.; Kelso, Kyle W.; Farmer, Andrew S.; Tuten, Thomas M.; Buster, Noreen A.

2018-04-13

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District, conducted bathymetric surveys of the nearshore waters surrounding Ship and Horn Islands, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Mississippi. The objective of this study was to establish base-level elevation conditions around West Ship, East Ship, and Horn Islands and their associated active littoral system prior to restoration activities. These activities include the closure of Camille Cut and the placement of sediment in the littoral zone of East Ship Island. These surveys can be compared with future surveys to monitor sediment migration patterns post-restoration and can also be measured against historic bathymetric datasets to further our understanding of island evolution.The USGS collected 667 line-kilometers (km) of single-beam bathymetry data and 844 line-km of interferometric swath bathymetry data in July 2016 under Field Activity Number 2016-347-FA. Data are provided in three datums: (1) the International Terrestrial Reference Frame of 2000 (ellipsoid height); (2) the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) CORS96 realization and the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 with respect to the GEOID12B model (orthometric height); and (3) NAD83 (CORS96) and Mean Lower Low Water (tidal datum). Data products, including x,y,zpoint datasets, trackline shapefiles, digital and handwritten Field Activity Collection Systems logs, 50-meter digital elevation model, and formal Federal Geographic Data Committee metadata, are available for download.

Function, form, and technology - The evolution of Space Station in NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fries, S. D.

1985-01-01

The history of major Space Station designs over the last twenty-five years is reviewed. The evolution of design concepts is analyzed with respect to the changing functions of Space Stations; and available or anticipated technology capabilities. Emphasis is given to the current NASA Space Station reference configuration, the 'power tower'. Detailed schematic drawings of the different Space Station designs are provided.

Observations of the Star Cor Caroli at the Apple Valley Workshop 2016 (Abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Estrada, R.; Boyd, S.; Estrada, C.; Evans, C.; Rhoades, H.; Rhoades, M.; Rhoades, T.

2017-12-01

(Abstract only) Using a 22-inch Newtonian Alt/Az telescope and Celestron Micro Guide eyepiece, students participating in a workshop observed the binary star Cor Caroli (STF 1692; alpha CVn) and found a position angle of 231.0 degrees as well as an average separation of 18.7" This observation compared favorably with the 2015 Washington Double Star published position. This project was part of Mark Brewer's Apple Valley Double Star Workshop. The results were analyzed using bias and circle error probability calculations.

ImmunoPET Imaging of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor in a Subcutaneous Mouse Model of Pancreatic Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-30

In addition, 89Zr-labeled nonspecific human IgG (89Zr-Df-IgG) displayed minimal uptake in IGF-1R positive MIA PaCa-2 tumor xenografts (3.63 ± 0.95...scanning using the LI-COR Odyssey Infrared Imaging System (LI-COR Biosciences, Lincoln, NE, USA). Human Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Xenograft Mouse Model...biodistribution was performed to confirm the PET ROI data. The biodistribution of 89Zr-Df-1A2G11 was compared between the xenograft -bearing mice (Figure 6

Unique sail-like structure of cor triatriatum dexter in three-dimensional echocardiogram.

PubMed

Low, Ting Ting; Uy, Celia Catherine C; Wong, Raymond Ching Chiew

2014-08-01

Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is an extremely rare congenital condition arising from the persistence of the right valve of the sinus venosus. It divides the right atrium (RA) into 2 separate chambers. We report a case of a 50-year-old man who had an incidental finding of CTD on transesophageal echocardiogram. An incomplete membrane of the RA was seen, and three-dimensional echocardiogram delineated the structure clearly as a triangular sail-like structure with multiple orifices and a fenestration. © 2013, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Cosmic Origins Program Annual Technology Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pham, Bruce Thai; Neff, Susan Gale

2016-01-01

What is the Cosmic Origins (COR) Program? From ancient times, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered: Are we alone? How did the universe come to be? How does the universe work? COR focuses on the second question. Scientists investigating this broad theme seek to understand the origin and evolution of the universe from the Big Bang to the present day, determining how the expanding universe grew into a grand cosmic web of dark matter enmeshed with galaxies and pristine gas, forming, merging, and evolving over time.

3D Modeling of CMEs observed with STEREO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosman, E.; Bothmer, V.

2012-04-01

From January 2007 until end of 2010, 565 typical large-scale coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have been identified in the SECCHI/COR2 synoptic movies of the STEREO Mission. A subset comprising 114 CME events, selected based on the CME's brightness appearance in the SECCHI/COR2 images, has been modeled through the Graduated Cylindrical Shell (GCS) Model developed by Thernisien et al. (2006). This study presents an overview of the GCS forward-modeling results and an interpretation of the CME characteristics in relationship to their solar source region properties and solar cycle appearances.

Mitigation of Confined Explosion Effects by Placing Water in Proximity of Explosives

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-08-01

fo rced conc re t e wa l l s and equlpment door; a s loped , f r a n g i b l e , cor ruga ted metal roof; and a smal l a t t ached s t r...r b lanket a re shown i n F igure 1. b. Replace t h e e x i s t i n g cor ruga ted metal roof wi th a p r e c a s t , R/concrete roo f

Utilizing a Rapid Prototyping Approach in the Building of a Hypermedia-Based Reference Station.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sell, Dan

This paper discusses the building of a hypermedia-based reference station at the Wright Laboratory Technical Library, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Following this, the paper focuses on an electronic user survey from which data is collected and analysis is made. The survey data is used in a rapid prototyping approach, which is defined as…

Zoonotic enteric parasites transmitted from dogs in Egypt with special concern to Toxocara canis infection

PubMed Central

Awadallah, Maysa A. I.; Salem, Lobna M. A.

2015-01-01

Aim: This work aimed to study the role played by dogs in transmitting zoonotic enteric parasites to humans in Egypt and to analyze the risk factors associated with the occurrence of such infection in dogs. Serodiagnosis of anti-Toxocara immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies among human beings as well as analyzing risk factors predispose to Toxocara canis infection in human beings are another objectives of this study. Materials and Methods: From June to December 2013, a total of 130 fecal samples from 4 dog populations (Military, nomadic and domiciled dogs from rural and high standard districts) and 150 stool samples of 6 occupational groups were examined for the presence of enteric parasitic infection. Moreover, 150 serum samples were collected from humans from whom stool samples were collected and examined for the presence of anti-T. canis antibodies. Results: Enteric parasites were detected in 30% of fecal samples from 4 dog populations in Egypt. High infectivity had been reported in nomadic dogs (63.33%) (Crude odds ratios [COR]=67.36, 95% confidence interval [CI]=8.09-560.8, p<0.000), followed by domiciled dogs from rural areas (40%) (COR=26, 95% CI=3.14-215.54, p=0.003), domiciled dogs from high standard areas (23.33%) (COR=11.87, 95% CI=1.37-102.69, p=0.025) and military dogs (2.5%). Twelve species of enteric parasites were identified, Ancylostomatidae (6.15%), T. canis and Cryptosporidium spp. (5.38%, each), Heterophyes spp. (3.85%), Toxocara leonina and Blastocystis spp. (3.07%), Taenidae eggs (2.31%), Hymenolepis diminuta (1.54%) and Entamoeba canis, Cyclospora cayetanensis, and Paragonimus spp. (0.77%, each). Univariate logestic regression revealed significant association of age (COR=4.73, 95% CI=2.13-10.53, p<0.000), gender (COR=2.63, 95% CI=1.22-5.68, p<0.014), housing system (COR=5.10, 95% CI=2.04-12.75), p<0.000) with enteric parasitic infection in dogs. However, breeds (COR=6.91, 95% CI=0.88-54.52, p=0.067) and type of feeding (COR ranged from 3.5 to 7.62, p>0.05) did not seem to have a significant association among the examined dogs. Enteric parasitic infection was reported in 31/150 human stools (20.67%). Students were the most affected groups (37.14%), followed by nomadic people (24%), house wives (20%), house guarders and military workers (12%, each), and employees (10%). The identified parasites were Cryptosporidium spp. (9.33%), Ascaris lumbercoides (3.33%), Heterophyes spp. and Ancylostoma spp. (2.66%, each) and Paragonimus spp. and Hymenolepis nana (1.33%, each). Toxocara IgG antibodies were detected in 36/150 (24%) serum samples investigated. Toxocara IgG antibodies were more prevalent in males (26.66%) than females (20%). Seroprevalence was highest (17/35, 48.57%) in 7-15 years old (COR=6.93, 95% CI=1.75-27.43, p=0.006). Seroprevalence values for T. canis antibodies were higher in those; raising dogs (29.85%), eating raw vegetables (25.21%) and not washing hands before meals (25.45%). T. canis antibodies were detected in 25% of those contacted with soil compared to 30% of those did not. Students were mostly affected (34.29%), followed by nomadic people (32%), house guarders (28%), housewives (20%), military workers (13%), and employees (10%). Conclusion: Detection of enteric parasites in dogs and humans in Egypt substantiates the role posed by dogs in transmitting zoonotic parasites to humans and knock an alarm for common sources of infection for humans and dogs. Common sources may be infected fish or contaminated vegetables that are consumed by dogs or humans or even infected rodents that may contaminate their feed. This pilot study necessitate the need for similar studies and tracing such infection in fish, vegetables, rodent that may be responsible for infecting humans and dogs in order to understand the epidemiology of zoonotic parasitic infection transmitted from dogs to humans. PMID:27047182

Severe weather investigation using GNSS signals - a new dimension of GNSS meteorology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rohm, W.; Zhang, K.; Choy, S.; Kuleshov, Y.; Bosy, J.; Kroszczyński, K.

2012-04-01

The Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals transmitted from satellites are subjected to atmospheric delays since the signals have to propagate through different layers of the atmosphere before GNSS receiver receives them. Two major distinctive effects according to the nature of the impact on the signal propagation are the ionosphere which is a dispersive media and the troposphere which is a non-dispersive layer. In this study, our focus of research is concentrated on the troposphere and the severe weather phenomena caused by midlatitude cyclonic storms. GNSS tomography technique is used to investigate both the spatial and temporal structures of a cyclonic storm. New algorithms will be developed based on optimal integrations of various observation techniques, such as ground-based meteorological measurements, radiosonde data, numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, GNSS radio occultation (RO) profiles. Our initial results suggest that the ground-based GNSS CORS stations will play a major role in the integration process. The structure and distribution of the GNSS CORS network and satellite constellations in context of size and resolution of tomography model are investigated along with the a priori information required, observation and estimation time interval and precision and accuracy needs. A number of numerical analyses are carried out using actual measurements in different parts of the world to evaluate the new algorithms developed through international collaboration. It is expected that GNSS tomography with a number of integrated measurements will provide an important insight into the vertical as well as the horizontal structure of different kinds of severe weather phenomena. It is also expected that GNSS tomography will become an important tool for the study of the severe weather processes, such as the development, maturation, and dissipation stages, which is complementary to other meteorological techniques such as weather radars and microwave radiometers. Potential usages of the new technique in real and/or near-real time would provide an exciting opportunity to launch monitoring and warning services that are able to offer vital information for community and decision makers.

PTTI Capabilities of the Modernized LORAN System

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

Cape Elizabeth LCCS Carolina Beach 9960-Y Dana 9960-Z Seneca 9960-M LSU 9960-T Sandy Hook Plumbrook Dunbar Forest LCCS Transmitting Station ...reference clocks at the individual transmitting stations , the intra-chain timing between stations , and the overall system synchronization to UTC. Each... station has three cesium clocks installed, and new Time and Frequency Equipment (TFE) was installed at the stations , beginning in the spring of 2003

Conservation of resources theory and research use in health systems.

PubMed

Alvaro, Celeste; Lyons, Renée F; Warner, Grace; Hobfoll, Stevan E; Martens, Patricia J; Labonté, Ronald; Brown, Richard E

2010-10-20

Health systems face challenges in using research evidence to improve policy and practice. These challenges are particularly evident in small and poorly resourced health systems, which are often in locations (in Canada and globally) with poorer health status. Although organizational resources have been acknowledged as important in understanding research use resource theories have not been a focus of knowledge translation (KT) research. What resources, broadly defined, are required for KT and how does their presence or absence influence research use?In this paper, we consider conservation of resources (COR) theory as a theoretical basis for understanding the capacity to use research evidence in health systems. Three components of COR theory are examined in the context of KT. First, resources are required for research uptake. Second, threat of resource loss fosters resistance to research use. Third, resources can be optimized, even in resource-challenged environments, to build capacity for KT. A scan of the KT literature examined organizational resources needed for research use. A multiple case study approach examined the three components of COR theory outlined above. The multiple case study consisted of a document review and key informant interviews with research team members, including government decision-makers and health practitioners through a retrospective analysis of four previously conducted applied health research studies in a resource-challenged region. The literature scan identified organizational resources that influence research use. The multiple case study supported these findings, contributed to the development of a taxonomy of organizational resources, and revealed how fears concerning resource loss can affect research use. Some resources were found to compensate for other resource deficits. Resource needs differed at various stages in the research use process. COR theory contributes to understanding the role of resources in research use, resistance to research use, and potential strategies to enhance research use. Resources (and a lack of them) may account for the observed disparities in research uptake across health systems. This paper offers a theoretical foundation to guide further examination of the COR-KT ideas and necessary supports for research use in resource-challenged environments.

Conservation of resources theory and research use in health systems

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Health systems face challenges in using research evidence to improve policy and practice. These challenges are particularly evident in small and poorly resourced health systems, which are often in locations (in Canada and globally) with poorer health status. Although organizational resources have been acknowledged as important in understanding research use resource theories have not been a focus of knowledge translation (KT) research. What resources, broadly defined, are required for KT and how does their presence or absence influence research use? In this paper, we consider conservation of resources (COR) theory as a theoretical basis for understanding the capacity to use research evidence in health systems. Three components of COR theory are examined in the context of KT. First, resources are required for research uptake. Second, threat of resource loss fosters resistance to research use. Third, resources can be optimized, even in resource-challenged environments, to build capacity for KT. Methods A scan of the KT literature examined organizational resources needed for research use. A multiple case study approach examined the three components of COR theory outlined above. The multiple case study consisted of a document review and key informant interviews with research team members, including government decision-makers and health practitioners through a retrospective analysis of four previously conducted applied health research studies in a resource-challenged region. Results The literature scan identified organizational resources that influence research use. The multiple case study supported these findings, contributed to the development of a taxonomy of organizational resources, and revealed how fears concerning resource loss can affect research use. Some resources were found to compensate for other resource deficits. Resource needs differed at various stages in the research use process. Conclusions COR theory contributes to understanding the role of resources in research use, resistance to research use, and potential strategies to enhance research use. Resources (and a lack of them) may account for the observed disparities in research uptake across health systems. This paper offers a theoretical foundation to guide further examination of the COR-KT ideas and necessary supports for research use in resource-challenged environments. PMID:20961445

Non-linear motions in reprocessed GPS station position time series

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudenko, Sergei; Gendt, Gerd

2010-05-01

Global Positioning System (GPS) data of about 400 globally distributed stations obtained at time span from 1998 till 2007 were reprocessed using GFZ Potsdam EPOS (Earth Parameter and Orbit System) software within International GNSS Service (IGS) Tide Gauge Benchmark Monitoring (TIGA) Pilot Project and IGS Data Reprocessing Campaign with the purpose to determine weekly precise coordinates of GPS stations located at or near tide gauges. Vertical motions of these stations are used to correct the vertical motions of tide gauges for local motions and to tie tide gauge measurements to the geocentric reference frame. Other estimated parameters include daily values of the Earth rotation parameters and their rates, as well as satellite antenna offsets. The solution GT1 derived is based on using absolute phase center variation model, ITRF2005 as a priori reference frame, and other new models. The solution contributed also to ITRF2008. The time series of station positions are analyzed to identify non-linear motions caused by different effects. The paper presents the time series of GPS station coordinates and investigates apparent non-linear motions and their influence on GPS station height rates.

Periodic Density Structures and the Origin of the Slow Solar Wind

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Viall-Kepko, Nicholeen M.; Vourlidas, Angelos

2015-01-01

The source of the slow solar wind has challenged scientists for years. Periodic density structures (PDSs), observed regularly in the solar wind at 1 AU (Astronomical Unit), can be used to address this challenge. These structures have length scales of hundreds to several thousands of megameters and frequencies of tens to hundreds of minutes. Two lines of evidence indicate that PDSs are formed in the solar corona as part of the slow solar wind release and/or acceleration processes. The first is corresponding changes in compositional data in situ, and the second is PDSs observed in the inner Heliospheric Imaging data on board the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)/Sun Earth Connection Coronal and Heliospheric Investigation (SECCHI) suite. The periodic nature of these density structures is both a useful identifier as well as an important physical constraint on their origin. In this paper, we present the results of tracking periodic structures identified in the inner Heliospheric Imager in SECCHI back in time through the corresponding outer coronagraph (COR2) images. We demonstrate that the PDSs are formed around or below 2.5 solar radii-the inner edge of the COR2 field of view. We compute the occurrence rates of PDSs in 10 days of COR2 images both as a function of their periodicity and location in the solar corona, and we find that this set of PDSs occurs preferentially with a periodicity of approximately 90 minutes and occurs near streamers. Lastly, we show that their acceleration and expansion through COR2 is self-similar, thus their frequency is constant at distances beyond 2.5 solar radii.

Cor triatriatum or divided atriums: which approach provides the better understanding?

PubMed

Bharucha, Tara; Spicer, Diane E; Mohun, Timothy J; Black, David; Henry, G William; Anderson, Robert H

2015-02-01

It is frequent, in the current era, to encounter congenital cardiac malformations described in terms of "cor triatriatum". But can hearts be truly found with three atrial chambers? The morphological method, emphasised by Van Praagh et al, states that structures within the heart should be defined on the basis of their most constant components. In the atrial chambers, it is the appendages that are the most constant components, and to the best of our knowledge, hearts can only possess two appendages, which can be of either right or left morphology. The hearts described on the basis of "cor triatriatum", nonetheless, can also be analysed on the basis of division of either the morphologically right or the morphologically left atriums. In this review, we provide a description of cardiac embryology, showing how each of the atrial chambers possesses part of the embryological body, along with an appendage, a vestibule, a venous component, and a septum that separates them. We then show how it is, indeed, the case that the hearts described in terms of "cor triatriatum" can be readily understood on the basis of division of these atrial components. In the right atrium, it is the venous valves that divide the chamber. In the left atrium, it is harder to provide an explanation for the shelf that produces atrial division. We also contrast the classic examples of the divided atrial chambers with the vestibular shelf that produces supravalvar stenosis in the morphologically left atrium, showing that this form of obstruction needs to be distinguished from the fibrous shelves producing intravalvar obstruction.

A correlative study of conservation of resources among Tipat Halav nurses in Israel.

PubMed

Ein-Gal, Yaffa; Pais, Miriam; Gerber, Ayala; Shabi, Roxi; Karako, Juli; Ben-Shalom, Yael

2014-01-01

Public Health nurses have enabled Israel's mother and child health clinics, Tipat Halav (TH) to receive international recognition by the World Health Organization. Recruitment of nurses to work in these clinics is a long-term challenge. This cross-sectional study with 186 TH nurses assessed stress factors, resource evaluation, level of burnout, and job satisfaction using Hobfoll's Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, which was chosen because it offers practical tools for assessing the resources required to alleviate stress. Nurses reported greater resource gain than resource loss (Mean [M] = 4.14, SD = 2 vs. M = 3.56, SD = 0.71) and a low level of burnout (M = 2.2, SD = 0.77). Stress was significantly correlated with level of burnout: (r = 0.38, p < .001). Prominent components of resource loss in correlation with burnout were self-efficacy (r = 0.315, p < .001) and sense of control (r = 0.339, p < .001). Linear regression predictors of burnout were religious observance (β = -0.26, p < .001), prevalence of stress factors (β = 0.25, p < .001), and level of job satisfaction (β = -0.51, p = .001). Identifying specific stressors and COR can help to enhance the work environment of TH nurses. Advanced Public Health training was related to increased COR gain and to reduction in COR loss and of burnout. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Site effects in the city of Port au Prince (Haiti) : A combined use of spectral ratio methods and empirical Greens functions simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

St Fleur, S.; Courboulex, F.; Bertrand, E.; Deschamps, A.; Mercier de Lepinay, B.; Prepetit, C.; Hough, S. E.

2013-12-01

Haiti was struck in January 2010 by a strong Mw=7 earthquake that caused extensive damages in the city of Port au Prince. At this time, very few seismological stations were working in Haiti and the only one that recorded the mainshock in Port au Prince was saturated. Thus, there were no direct measurements of the ground motion produced by this large event. Quickly after the 2010 event, several permanent accelerometric stations were installed by the USGS (U.S. Geological Survey) and the BME (Bureau des Mines et de l'Energie d'Haiti) as well as broad-band stations by the GSC (Geological Survey of Canada). Since their installation, these stations recorded several tens of aftershocks. The aim of our work is to take advantage of this new dataset to better understand the ground motions generated by earthquakes in the city of Port au Prince. We have used first spectral ratio methods to obtain the transfer function of each station, and then an empirical Green's Function simulation approach to combine source and site effects. In order to estimate site effects under each station, we have used classical spectral ratio methods. In a first step, the H/V (Horizontal/Vertical) method was used to select a reference station (in Port au Prince) that should be ideally a station without any site effects. We selected two stations, HCEA and PAPH, as reference stations, as even if the shape of their H/V curves is not always equal to 1 in the entire frequency band. In a second step, we computed the transfer function at each station by a ratio between the spectra of each earthquake at each station and the spectra obtained at the reference station (we use successively HCEA, PAPH and a combination of both). The results were kept only for the frequencies where the signal to noise was larger than 3. In the frequency range 1 to 20 Hz, we found site/reference ratios that reach values from 3 to 8 and a large variability from one station to another one. In the low frequency band 0.5 to 1 Hz a peak is present at almost all the stations in Port au Prince, which may indicate an amplification due to a deep interface. However, these values have a large variability from one earthquake recording to the other. This may indicate that the observed amplification depends not only on the effect of local site, but also on the source or the propagation direction. We then used the recordings of two earthquakes (Mw 4.3 and Mw 4.4) that occurred on the Leogane fault as Empirical Green's Functions (EGF) in order to simulate the ground motions generated by a virtual Mw 6.8 earthquake. For this simulation a stochastic EGF summation method was used. The results obtained using the two events are surprisingly very different. Using the first EGF, nearly the same ground motion was obtained at each station in Port-au-Prince, whereas with the second EGF, the results highlight large differences. Finally, the estimated site response (site/reference) was used in combination with a direct estimation of the rock site motion (HCEA simulation) in order to reproduce the ground motions which were compared to the EGF simulation method. The comparison confirms the large variability in the modeled ground shaking which can be due to both site and source effects and the low frequency amplification on the plain of Port-au-Prince.

47 CFR 1.1704 - Station files.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... System (COALS) § 1.1704 Station files. Applications, notifications, correspondence, electronic filings... Television Relay Service (CARS) are maintained by the Commission in COALS and the Public Reference Room...

Structure and electrostatic property of cytoplasmic domain of ZntB transporter

PubMed Central

Tan, Kemin; Sather, Alicia; Robertson, Janice L; Moy, Shiu; Roux, Benoît; Joachimiak, Andrzej

2009-01-01

ZntB is the distant homolog of CorA Mg2+ transporter within the metal ion transporter superfamily. It was early reported that the ZntB from Salmonella typhimurium facilitated efflux of Zn2+ and Cd2+, but not Mg2+. Here, we report the 1.90 Å crystal structure of the intracellular domain of ZntB from Vibrio parahemolyticus. The domain forms a funnel-shaped homopentamer that is similar to the full-length CorA from Thermatoga maritima, but differs from two previously reported dimeric structures of truncated CorA intracellular domains. However, no Zn2+ or Cd2+ binding sites were identified in the high-resolution structure. Instead, 25 well-defined Cl− ions were observed and some of these binding sites are highly conserved within the ZntB family. Continuum electrostatics calculations suggest that the central pore of the funnel is highly attractive for cations, especially divalents. The presence of the bound Cl− ions increases the stability of cations along the pore suggesting they could be important in enhancing cation transport. PMID:19653298

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

Tan, K.; Sather, A.; Robertson, J. L.

ZntB is the distant homolog of CorA Mg{sup 2+} transporter within the metal ion transporter superfamily. It was early reported that the ZntB from Salmonella typhimurium facilitated efflux of Zn{sup 2+} and Cd{sup 2+}, but not Mg{sup 2+}. Here, we report the 1.90 {angstrom} crystal structure of the intracellular domain of ZntB from Vibrio parahemolyticus. The domain forms a funnel-shaped homopentamer that is similar to the full-length CorA from Thermatoga maritima, but differs from two previously reported dimeric structures of truncated CorA intracellular domains. However, no Zn{sup 2+} or Cd{sup 2+} binding sites were identified in the high-resolution structure. Instead,more » 25 well-defined Cl{sup -} ions were observed and some of these binding sites are highly conserved within the ZntB family. Continuum electrostatics calculations suggest that the central pore of the funnel is highly attractive for cations, especially divalents. The presence of the bound Cl{sup -} ions increases the stability of cations along the pore suggesting they could be important in enhancing cation transport.« less

Fault-tolerant cooperative output regulation for multi-vehicle systems with sensor faults

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Liguo; He, Xiao; Zhou, D. H.

2017-10-01

This paper presents a unified framework of fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant cooperative output regulation (FTCOR) for a linear discrete-time multi-vehicle system with sensor faults. The FTCOR control law is designed through three steps. A cooperative output regulation (COR) controller is designed based on the internal mode principle when there are no sensor faults. A sufficient condition on the existence of the COR controller is given based on the discrete-time algebraic Riccati equation (DARE). Then, a decentralised fault diagnosis scheme is designed to cope with sensor faults occurring in followers. A residual generator is developed to detect sensor faults of each follower, and a bank of fault-matching estimators are proposed to isolate and estimate sensor faults of each follower. Unlike the current distributed fault diagnosis for multi-vehicle systems, the presented decentralised fault diagnosis scheme in each vehicle reduces the communication and computation load by only using the information of the vehicle. By combing the sensor fault estimation and the COR control law, an FTCOR controller is proposed. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the FTCOR controller.

Otolithic and extraocular muscle proprioceptive influences on the spatial organization of the vestibulo- and cervico-ocular quick phases.

PubMed

Pettorossi, V E; Manni, E; Errico, P; Ferraresi, A; Bortolami, R

1997-03-01

The cervico-ocular reflex (COR) was studied alone or in combination with the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) in the rabbit. Step stimulations of the body with respect to the fixed head induced small slow compensatory responses followed by large compensatory quick phases (QP). These responses remained aligned with the horizon at different head pitch angles. The QP reorientation in space was due to the gravity influence on the otolithic receptors. The vestibular induced QPs exhibit a similar pattern. Because of this reorientation, the reduction of the amplitude of the vestibular induced QPs, due to the addition of the COR, was maintained even at different static head positions. The electrolytic lesion of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve deeply affected the space orientation of the COR. In particular, the cervically induced compensatory QPs of the eye ipsilateral to the lesion showed a remarkable variability of their trajectories and they lost space reorientation. These findings suggest that the coordinate system controlling the QPs is influenced by signals originating from both head position in space and eye position in the orbit.

Stent placement for palliation of cor triatriatum dexter in a dog with suspected patent foramen ovale.

PubMed

Barncord, Kristin; Stauthammer, Christopher; Moen, Sean L; Hanson, Melissa; Gruenstein, Daniel H

2016-03-01

An 11 month old spayed, female dog presented with exercise intolerance and cyanosis upon exertion. Echocardiography revealed an imperforate cor triatriatum dexter with mild tricuspid valve dysplasia, an underfilled right ventricle and significant right to left shunting across a presumptive patent foramen ovale. Balloon dilation of the abnormal atrial membrane was initially successful in creating a communication between the right atrial chambers, but stenosis of the original perforation and persistent clinical signs prompted a second intervention. A balloon expandable biliary stent was placed across the abnormal partition, improving caudal venous return to the right ventricle and reducing the right to left shunt. Three months after stent placement, resting oxygen saturation had normalized. Six months after stent placement, exercise tolerance had improved and exertional cyanosis had resolved. Long term follow up will be necessary to assess for remodeling of the right ventricle with improved venous return. Stent placement can be considered as a palliative treatment option for cor triatriatum dexter, especially for stenosis post-balloon dilation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Race matters: a systematic review of racial/ethnic disparity in Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology reported outcomes.

PubMed

Wellons, Melissa F; Fujimoto, Victor Y; Baker, Valerie L; Barrington, Debbie S; Broomfield, Diana; Catherino, William H; Richard-Davis, Gloria; Ryan, Mary; Thornton, Kim; Armstrong, Alicia Y

2012-08-01

To systematically review the reporting of race/ethnicity in Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) Clinic Outcome Reporting System (CORS) publications. Systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology of literature published in PubMed on race/ethnicity that includes data from SART CORS. Not applicable. Not applicable. In vitro fertilization cycles reported to SART. Any outcomes reported in SART CORS. Seven publications were identified that assessed racial/ethnic disparities in IVF outcomes using SART data. All reported a racial/ethnic disparity. However, more than 35% of cycles were excluded from analysis because of missing race/ethnicity data. Review of current publications of SART data suggests significant racial/ethnic disparities in IVF outcomes. However, the potential for selection bias limits confidence in these findings, given that fewer than 65% of SART reported cycles include race/ethnicity. Our understanding of how race/ethnicity influences ART outcome could be greatly improved if information on race/ethnicity was available for all reported cycles. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. All rights reserved.

Infrared Spectroscopy of Matrix-Isolated Neutral and Ionized Anthracoronene in Argon.

PubMed

de Barros, A L F; Mattioda, A L; Korsmeyer, J M; Ricca, A

2018-03-08

The matrix-isolated mid-IR (MIR) spectrum of neutral and ionized anthracoronene (C 36 H 18 , AnthCor) in argon has been measured experimentally, compared to the spectrum of its parent molecules, coronene and anthracene, and analyzed by comparison to a theoretical spectrum computed using density functional theory (DFT). The experimental and theoretical band positions generally agree within 0-10 cm -1 . Anthracoronene exhibits extremely intense cation and anion bands around 1330 and 1318 cm -1 . The intensity of these two bands approaches what is traditionally observed over the entire 1000-1600 cm -1 range for a typical PAH cation or anion. The matrix-isolated near-IR (NIR) through overlap region (OVR) spectrum of ionized AnthCor in argon has been reported for the first time and compared to the spectrum of its parent molecules, coronene and anthracene. The spectrum of AnthCor contains a very strong electronic transition around 6175 cm -1 , placing it outside the range of the electronic transitions typically observed for PAHs. Anthracoronene is one of the few PAHs studied to date which has exhibited the formation of anions upon UV photolysis.

USGS Menlo Park GPS Data Processing Techniques and Derived North America Velocity Field (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Svarc, J. L.; Murray-Moraleda, J. R.; Langbein, J. O.

2010-12-01

The U.S. Geological Survey in Menlo Park routinely conducts repeated GPS surveys of geodetic markers throughout the western United States using dual-frequency geodetic GPS receivers. We combine campaign, continuous, and semi-permanent data to present a North America fixed velocity field for regions in the western United States. Mobile campaign-based surveys require less up-front investment than permanently monumented and telemetered GPS systems, and hence have achieved a broad and dense spatial coverage. The greater flexibility and mobility comes at the cost of greater uncertainties in individual daily position solutions. We also routinely process continuous GPS data collected at PBO stations operated by UNAVCO along with data from other continuous GPS networks such as BARD, PANGA, and CORS operated by other agencies. We have broken the Western US into several subnetworks containing approximately 150-250 stations each. The data are processed using JPL’s GIPSY-OASIS II release 5.0 software using a modified precise positioning strategy (Zumberge and others, 1997). We use the “ambizap” code provided by Geoff Blewitt (Blewitt, 2008) to fix phase ambiguities in continuous networks. To mitigate the effect of common mode noise we use the positions of stations in the network with very long, clean time series (i.e. those with no large outliers or offsets) to transform all position estimates into “regionally filtered” results following the approach of Hammond and Thatcher (2007). Velocity uncertainties from continuously operated GPS stations tend to be about 3 times smaller than those from campaign data. Langbein (2004) presents a maximum likelihood method for fitting a time series employing a variety of temporal noise models. We assume that GPS observations are contaminated by a combination of white, flicker, and random walk noise. For continuous and semi-permanent time series longer than 2 years we estimate these values, otherwise we fix the amplitudes of these processes to 0.85 mm, 1.7 mm/yr1/4, and 0.4 mm/yr1/2 respectively for the north components, 0.84 mm, 1.4 mm/yr1/4, and 0.6 mm/yr1/2 respectively for the east components and 3.2 mm, 6.4 mm/yr1/4, and 0.0 mm/yr1/2 respectively for the vertical. We have also deployed “semi-permanent” stations in selected regions of California. Semi-permanent stations have the advantage of increasing the density of coverage without the high cost of monumentation and telemetry associated with continuous GPS stations. Also, because of the increased temporal coverage of these stations, accurate estimates of station velocities can be achieved in a far shorter time period than from campaign mode surveys.

On the establishment and maintenance of a modern conventional terrestrial reference system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bock, Y.; Zhu, S. Y.

1982-01-01

The frame of the Conventional Terrestrial Reference System (CTS) is defined by an adopted set of coordinates, at a fundamental epoxh, of a global network of stations which contribute the vertices of a fundamental polyhedron. A method to estimate this set of coordinates using a combination of modern three dimensional geodetic systems is presented. Once established, the function of the CTS is twofold. The first is to monitor the external (or global) motions of the polyhedron with respect to the frame of a Conventional Inertial Reference System, i.e., those motions common to all stations. The second is to monitor the internal motions (or deformations) of the polyhedron, i.e., those motions that are not common to all stations. Two possible estimators for use in earth deformation analysis are given and their statistical and physical properties are described.

Verification of the Polish Geodetic Reference Frame by Means of a New Solution Based on Permanent GNSS Data from the Years 2011-2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liwosz, T.; Ryczywolski, M.

2016-12-01

The new solution for the Polish geodetic primary GNSS network was created to verify the currently used reference frame (PL-ETRF2000). The new solution is based on more GNSS data (more daily observation sessions included, a longer data timespan, GLONASS observations added) which were processed in a newer reference frame (IGb08) according to up-to-date methodology and using the latest version of Bernese GNSS Software. The new long-term solution (spanning 3.7 years) was aligned to the IGb08 reference frame using a minimum constraints approach. We categorized Polish reference stations into two categories according to their data length. We obtained good agreement of the new solution with the PL-ETRF2000: for most stations position differences did not exceed 5 mm in horizontal, and 10 mm in vertical components. However, for 30 stations we observed discontinuities in position time series, mostly due to GNSS equipment changes, which occured after the introduction of PL-ETRF2000. Position changes due to the discontinuities reached 9.1 mm in horizontal components, and 26.9 mm in vertical components. The new solution takes into account position discontinuities, and in addition also includes six new stations which were installed after the introduction of the PL-ETRF2000. Therefore, we propose to update the currently-used reference frame for the Polish geodetic primary network (PL-ETRF2000) with the new solution. The new solution was also accepted by the EUREF Technical Working Group as a class A solution (highest accuracy) according to EUREF standards.

Complete A-V block: incidental or a part of cor triatriatum dexter.

PubMed

Guler, Y; Akgun, T; Toprak, C; Guler, A; Esen, A M

2014-05-01

Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is an extremely rare cardiac anomaly in which the right atrium is divided into two distinct chambers by a membrane. The persistence of the right valve of sinus venosus results in a complete septation of the right atrium. This anomaly is frequently associated with other right-sided cardiac abnormalities. Its clinical manifestation and the need for intervention are determined by the number and the size of the fenestrations on the membrane, associated cardiac anomalies and arrhythmias. We describe a case of CTD in a patient with complete atrioventricular (A-V) block.

Precise Quantitative Assessment of the Clinical Performances of Two High-Flux Polysulfone Hemodialyzers in Hemodialysis: Validation of a Blood-Based Simple Kinetic Model Versus Direct Dialysis Quantification.

PubMed

Lim, Paik-Seong; Lin, Yuyu; Chen, Minfeng; Xu, Xiaoqi; Shi, Yun; Bowry, Sudhir; Canaud, Bernard

2018-05-01

Highly permeable dialysis membranes with better design filters have contributed to improved solute removal and dialysis efficacy. However, solute membrane permeability needs to be well controlled to avoid increased loss of albumin that is considered to be detrimental for dialysis patients. A novel high-flux dialyzer type (FX CorDiax; Fresenius Medical Care) incorporating an advanced polysulfone membrane modified with nano-controlled spinning technology to enhance the elimination of a broader spectrum of uremic toxins has been released. The aim of this study was to compare in the clinical setting two dialyzer types having the same surface area, the current (FX dialyzer) and the new dialyzer generation (FX CorDiax), with respect to solute removal capacity over a broad spectrum of markers, including assessment of albumin loss based on a direct dialysis quantification method. We performed a crossover study following an A1-B-A2 design involving 10 patients. Phase A1 was 1 week of thrice-weekly bicarbonate hemodialysis with the FX dialyzer, 4 h per treatment; phase B was performed with a similar treatment regimen but with a new FX CorDiax dialyzer and finally the phase A2 was repeated with FX dialyzer as the former phase. Solute removal markers of interest were assessed from blood samples taken before and after treatment and from total spent dialysate collection (direct dialysis quantification) permitting a mass transfer calculation (mg/session into total spent dialysate/ultrafiltrate). On the blood side, there were no significant differences in the solute percent reduction between FX CorDiax 80 and FX 80. On the dialysate side, no difference was observed regarding eliminated mass of different solutes including β 2 -microglobulin (143.1 ± 33.6 vs. 138.3 ± 41.9 mg, P = 0.8), while the solute mass removal of total protein (1.65 ± 0.51 vs. 2.14 ± 0.75 g, P = 0.04), and albumin (0.41 ± 0.21 vs. 1.22 ± 0.51 g, P < 0.001) were significantly less for FX CorDiax 80 compared to the FX 80 dialyzer. The results of this cross-over study indicate that the new FX CorDiax dialyzer has highly effective removal of middle molecules, without any concomitant increase in total protein and albumin loss. The clinical relevance and potential benefit of this finding needs to be determined. © 2017 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Global daily reference evapotranspiration modeling and evaluation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Senay, G.B.; Verdin, J.P.; Lietzow, R.; Melesse, Assefa M.

2008-01-01

Accurate and reliable evapotranspiration (ET) datasets are crucial in regional water and energy balance studies. Due to the complex instrumentation requirements, actual ET values are generally estimated from reference ET values by adjustment factors using coefficients for water stress and vegetation conditions, commonly referred to as crop coefficients. Until recently, the modeling of reference ET has been solely based on important weather variables collected from weather stations that are generally located in selected agro-climatic locations. Since 2001, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) has been producing six-hourly climate parameter datasets that are used to calculate daily reference ET for the whole globe at 1-degree spatial resolution. The U.S. Geological Survey Center for Earth Resources Observation and Science has been producing daily reference ET (ETo) since 2001, and it has been used on a variety of operational hydrological models for drought and streamflow monitoring all over the world. With the increasing availability of local station-based reference ET estimates, we evaluated the GDAS-based reference ET estimates using data from the California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS). Daily CIMIS reference ET estimates from 85 stations were compared with GDAS-based reference ET at different spatial and temporal scales using five-year daily data from 2002 through 2006. Despite the large difference in spatial scale (point vs. ∼100 km grid cell) between the two datasets, the correlations between station-based ET and GDAS-ET were very high, exceeding 0.97 on a daily basis to more than 0.99 on time scales of more than 10 days. Both the temporal and spatial correspondences in trend/pattern and magnitudes between the two datasets were satisfactory, suggesting the reliability of using GDAS parameter-based reference ET for regional water and energy balance studies in many parts of the world. While the study revealed the potential of GDAS ETo for large-scale hydrological applications, site-specific use of GDAS ETo in complex hydro-climatic regions such as coastal areas and rugged terrain may require the application of bias correction and/or disaggregation of the GDAS ETo using downscaling techniques.

GNSS activities for crustal deformation studies in Georgia (Caucasus)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khazaradze, Giorgi; Machavariani, Kakhaber; Hahubia, Galaktion; Kachakhidze-Murphy, Nino; Kachakhidze, Manana

2017-04-01

The republic of Georgia is located in the Caucasus, between the Black and Caspian seas from the west and the east, and Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains from the north and the south. Tectonically, the region belongs to the Alpine-Himalayan collisional zone, formed during the late Cenozoic period as a result of a collision between the Arabian and Eurasian plates. The deformation zone due to this collision is broad and extends from Zagros mountains in southern Iran to the Greater Caucasus in the north. The GPS studies conducted during the last decade suggest a convergence rate of 18 mm/yr between the Arabia and Eurasia plates. Although majority of this convergence occurs in the southern part of the deformation zone, important part of this convergence occurs in Georgia, implying an elevated seismic risk in the region. This is corroborated by a presence of significant historical and instrumental earthquakes in the country. As part of the project dealing with the detection of possible low frequency electromagnetic emissions proceeding earthquakes, we have installed a continuous GNSS station MTSK between Mtskheta and Tbilisi. The station consists of Leica GRX1200 GNSS receiver with an AS10 antenna. It is mounted on top of the building, anchored to the existing brick wall. The preliminary analysis of the time-series indicates the suitability of the new station for geodynamic studies, since the preliminary data shows clean time-series with low multipath signal. We are hopeful, with time the MTSK station can provide millimeter level precisions in the velocity estimates. The analysis of the data is performed using the Gamit/Globk software package from MIT and it is processed in conjunction with 23 continuous GNSS stations of the GEO-CORS network operated by National Agency of Public Registry of Georgia (geocors.napr.gov.ge). In addition, we analyze data form the stations located on Eurasia, Arabia and Africa plates. The principle objective of the given work is to monitor millimeter level deformation of the crust due to the collision of Arabia and Eurasia tectonic plates and identify the regions of higher deformation and relate them to individual faults. This work has been partially supported by Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia (grant DI/21/9-140/1). We are grateful to the Andronikashvili Institute of Physics (www.aiphysics.tsu.ge) for letting us using their facility for the installation of the GNSS station.

Spatial interpolation of daily reference evapotranspiration in the Texas High Plains

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The Texas High Plains Evapotranspiration (ET) Network collects meteorological data from 18 grass reference weather stations at hourly intervals and estimates hourly and daily reference ET using the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Standardized Reference ET equation. Producers in the Texas ...

On the relevance of source effects in geomagnetic pulsations for induction soundings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neska, Anne; Tadeusz Reda, Jan; Leszek Neska, Mariusz; Petrovich Sumaruk, Yuri

2018-03-01

This study is an attempt to close a gap between recent research on geomagnetic pulsations and their usage as source signals in electromagnetic induction soundings (i.e., magnetotellurics, geomagnetic depth sounding, and magnetovariational sounding). The plane-wave assumption as a precondition for the proper performance of these methods is partly violated by the local nature of field line resonances which cause a considerable portion of pulsations at mid latitudes. It is demonstrated that and explained why in spite of this, the application of remote reference stations in quasi-global distances for the suppression of local correlated-noise effects in induction arrows is possible in the geomagnetic pulsation range. The important role of upstream waves and of the magnetic equatorial region for such applications is emphasized. Furthermore, the principal difference between application of reference stations for local transfer functions (which result in sounding curves and induction arrows) and for inter-station transfer functions is considered. The preconditions for the latter are much stricter than for the former. Hence a failure to estimate an inter-station transfer function to be interpreted in terms of electromagnetic induction, e.g., because of field line resonances, does not necessarily prohibit use of the station pair for a remote reference estimation of the impedance tensor.

Pathogen exploitation of an abscisic acid- and jasmonate-inducible MAPK phosphatase and its interception by Arabidopsis immunity.

PubMed

Mine, Akira; Berens, Matthias L; Nobori, Tatsuya; Anver, Shajahan; Fukumoto, Kaori; Winkelmüller, Thomas M; Takeda, Atsushi; Becker, Dieter; Tsuda, Kenichi

2017-07-11

Phytopathogens promote virulence by, for example, exploiting signaling pathways mediated by phytohormones such as abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonate (JA). Some plants can counteract pathogen virulence by invoking a potent form of immunity called effector-triggered immunity (ETI). Here, we report that ABA and JA mediate inactivation of the immune-associated MAP kinases (MAPKs), MPK3 and MPK6, in Arabidopsis thaliana ABA induced expression of genes encoding the protein phosphatases 2C (PP2Cs), HAI1 , HAI2 , and HAI3 through ABF/AREB transcription factors. These three HAI PP2Cs interacted with MPK3 and MPK6 and were required for ABA-mediated MPK3/MPK6 inactivation and immune suppression. The bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato ( Pto ) DC3000 activates ABA signaling and produces a JA-mimicking phytotoxin, coronatine (COR), that promotes virulence. We found that Pto DC3000 induces HAI1 through COR-mediated activation of MYC2, a master transcription factor in JA signaling. HAI1 dephosphorylated MPK3 and MPK6 in vitro and was necessary for COR-mediated suppression of MPK3/MPK6 activation and immunity. Intriguingly, upon ETI activation, A. thaliana plants overcame the HAI1-dependent virulence of COR by blocking JA signaling. Finally, we showed conservation of induction of HAI PP2Cs by ABA and JA in other Brassicaceae species. Taken together, these results suggest that ABA and JA signaling pathways, which are hijacked by the bacterial pathogen, converge on the HAI PP2Cs that suppress activation of the immune-associated MAPKs. Also, our data unveil interception of JA-signaling activation as a host counterstrategy against the bacterial suppression of MAPKs during ETI.

Enhanced Antimicrobial Effects of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix (CorMatrix) with Added Vancomycin and Gentamicin for Device Implant Protection.

PubMed

Deering, Thomas F; Chang, Carlos; Snyder, Carl; Natarajan, Selvamuthu K; Matheny, Robert

2017-06-01

The incidence of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infections has risen significantly over the past years. Although several devices are currently available to decrease the incidence of infection, most are made from nonviable synthetic material and are more prone to infection than vascularized tissue. This study was undertaken to assess the resistance to infection of the CorMatrix CanGaroo (CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Roswell, GA, USA), a CIED envelope made of decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrated in different antibiotic solutions. This study was comprised of two in vitro tests and one animal trial. For all the tests, the ECM was hydrated in a mixture of vancomycin (25 mg/mL) and gentamicin (20 mg/mL) or gentamicin alone (40 mg/mL). The drug elution characteristics were assessed followed by the effectiveness of CanGaroo to prevent the bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis in culture. Then, the direct inoculation of pacemaker implant pockets with both Staphylococcus species was performed in rabbits implanted with either a pacemaker alone or a pacemaker with antibiotic-soaked CorMatrix ECM pouches. The hydration of CanGaroo envelopes in both antibiotic mixtures resulted in antimicrobial activity against both Staphylococcus species, with an early bolus release of antibiotics followed by a slow release lasting for up to 6 days. In vivo, there was a substantial decrease in the occurrence of infection. The hydration of the CanGaroo ECM with an antibiotic solution prevented Staphylococcus species growth in vitro and substantially reduced the incidence of CIED pocket infections in an in vivo rabbit model. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Overexpression of a wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) bZIP transcription factor gene, TabZIP6, decreased the freezing tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings by down-regulating the expression of CBFs.

PubMed

Cai, Wangting; Yang, Yaling; Wang, Weiwei; Guo, Guangyan; Liu, Wei; Bi, Caili

2018-03-01

The basic leucine zipper (bZIP) proteins play important roles against abiotic stress in plants, including cold stress. However, most bZIPs involved in plant freezing tolerance are positive regulators. Only a few bZIPs function negatively in cold stress response. In this study, TabZIP6, a Group C bZIP transcription factor gene from common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), was cloned and characterized. The transcript of TabZIP6 was strongly induced by cold treatment (4 °C). TabZIP6 is a nuclear-localized protein with transcriptional activation activity. Arabidopsis plants overexpressing TabZIP6 showed decreased tolerance to freezing stress. Microarray as well as quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that CBFs and some key COR genes, including COR47 and COR15B, were down-regulated by cold treatment in TabZIP6-overexpressing Arabidopsis lines. TabZIP6 was capable of binding to the G-box motif and the CBF1 and CBF3 promoters in yeast cells. A yeast two-hybrid assay revealed that TabZIP6, as well as the other two Group S bZIP proteins involved in cold stress tolerance in wheat, Wlip19 and TaOBF1, can form homodimers by themselves and heterodimers with each other. These results suggest that TabZIP6 may function negatively in the cold stress response by binding to the promoters of CBFs, and thereby decreasing the expression of downstream COR genes in TabZIP6-overexpressing Arabidopsis seedlings. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

The effects of physical therapeutic agents on serum levels of stress hormones in patients with osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Tönük, Şükrü Burak; Serin, Erdinc; Ayhan, Fikriye Figen; Yorgancioglu, Zeynep Rezan

2016-01-01

Abstract To investigate the effects of physical agents on the levels of stress hormones in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, hot packs, and therapeutic ultrasound were applied to the lumbar region and knees of patients with OA. Blood samples were taken for the measurement of the serum levels of glucose, insulin (INS), growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), cortisol (COR), and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) immediately before and after the 1st session, to investigate the acute effects of those physical agents on the endocrine system. The hormone levels were also measured every 5 sessions in a total of 10 sessions. The treatment response was also evaluated by using the visual analogue scale (VAS), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) throughout the therapy period. After the 1st session, there was a decrease in INS levels and a mild decrease in PRL levels (P = 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). Throughout the 10-session therapy period, the INS levels increased, whereas the ACTH and COR levels decreased (P < 0.05 for all). The VAS-spine, RMDQ, VAS-knee, and WOMAC scores decreased (P = 0.001 for VAS-spine and P < 0.001 for all others). A positive correlation was detected between the changes in serum COR and WOMAC-pain score (P < 0.05). Although the combination therapy caused changes in INS level accompanied with steady glucose levels, the application of physical agents did not adversely affect the hormone levels. The decrease in ACTH and COR levels may be attributed to the analgesic effect of agents and may be an indicator of patient comfort through a central action. PMID:27583888

Fotometria superficial BVRI de 18 galáxias fracas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saraiva, M. F. O.; Silva, P. R.

2003-08-01

Conhecer as propriedades de galáxias a diferentes redshifts é uma questão fundamental para entender o problema da formação e evolução das galáxias, e desde a década passada tem se intensificado fortemente o estudo de galáxias muito distantes. No entanto parece haver um interesse menor em galáxias a distâncias intermediárias, que aparecem como objetos de fundo em imagens de objetos próximos, e que são igualmente importantes. Examinando imagens BVRI de longa exposição, ótimo sinal/ruído, grande campo (46'x46'), das vizinhanças de NGC 7479, detectamos 18 galáxias fracas (18 < B < 21) nessas imagens. Neste trabalho, apresentamos a fotometria superficial desses objetos. Determinamos coordenadas equatoriais, magnitudes e cores integradas, perfis de brilho e de cor, e parâmetros isofotais calculados por ajuste de ellipses, dentro do limite permitido pela baixa resolução espacial dos dados (1,35 segarc/pixel). Nosso objetivo é procurar correlações entre as propriedades das galáxias e, tentativamente, comparar esses dados com aqueles de galáxias de redshift conhecido, disponíveis na literatura, para estimar suas distâncias (a partir da relação cor x redshift) e suas morfologias. Uma análise preliminar nesse sentido mostrou que as cores aparentes B-V, V-R e V-I dos objetos da nossa amostra, a menos de duas exceções, ocupam regiões bem definidas nos diagramas cor-cor, e não apresentam diferenças notáveis em relação às cores típicas de galáxias próximas.

Whole body vibration exercise combined with an extract of Coriandrum sativum modify some biochemical/physiological parameters in rats.

PubMed

Frederico, Éric H F F; Cardoso, André L B D; Guimarães, Carlos A S; Almeida, Lívia P; Neves, Rosane F; Sá-Caputo, Danúbia C; Moreira-Marconi, Eloá; Dionello, Carla F; Morel, Danielle S; Paineiras-Domingos, Laisa L; Costa-Cavalcanti, Rebeca G; Sousa-Gonçalves, Cintia R; Arnóbio, Adriano; Asad, Nasser R; Bernardo-Filho, Mario

2017-06-30

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the association of whole body vibration (WBV) exercise with an aqueous extract of coriander on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical sodium pertechnetate, on the concentration of some plasma biomarker, on the feed intake, on the body mass, and on the stool consistency in rats. Rats were divided in four groups and submitted to different treatments for 40 days. The control group (CON) received deionized water. The group treated with coriander (COR) received the extract of coriander. The rats that were exposed to WBV exercises (WBV-E) also received deionized water. A group of animals received coriander and was exposed to WBV (COR + WBV-E). We found in testis a decrease (0.13 ± 0.01 to 0.06 ± 0.03) of the percentages of injected radioactivity per gram (%ATI/g) in the WBV-E in comparison with the COR. There is no significant alteration on the concentrations of the plasma biomarkers. The feed intake showed a statistically significant increase in WBV-E. No significant difference on the body mass was found. The stool analysis showed a statistical difference on the consistency between COR (hard and dry, darker) and all the other groups (normal). In conclusion, it was verified that possible modifications in some biochemical/physiological parameters of the rats submitted to WBV exercise would be capable to increase the feed intake without changing the body mass, and normalizing the stool consistency altered by the coriander supplementation. Further studies are needed to try to understand better the biological effects involving the association of WBV exercise and coriander. © 2017 The Author(s).

A role for circadian evening elements in cold-regulated gene expression in Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Mikkelsen, Michael D; Thomashow, Michael F

2009-10-01

The plant transcriptome is dramatically altered in response to low temperature. The cis-acting DNA regulatory elements and trans-acting factors that regulate the majority of cold-regulated genes are unknown. Previous bioinformatic analysis has indicated that the promoters of cold-induced genes are enriched in the Evening Element (EE), AAAATATCT, a DNA regulatory element that has a role in circadian-regulated gene expression. Here we tested the role of EE and EE-like (EEL) elements in cold-induced expression of two Arabidopsis genes, CONSTANS-like 1 (COL1; At5g54470) and a gene encoding a 27-kDa protein of unknown function that we designated COLD-REGULATED GENE 27 (COR27; At5g42900). Mutational analysis indicated that the EE/EEL elements were required for cold induction of COL1 and COR27, and that their action was amplified through coupling with ABA response element (ABRE)-like (ABREL) motifs. An artificial promoter consisting solely of four EE motifs interspersed with three ABREL motifs was sufficient to impart cold-induced gene expression. Both COL1 and COR27 were found to be regulated by the circadian clock at warm growth temperatures and cold-induction of COR27 was gated by the clock. These results suggest that cold- and clock-regulated gene expression are integrated through regulatory proteins that bind to EE and EEL elements supported by transcription factors acting at ABREL sequences. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the coupling of EE and EEL motifs with ABREL motifs is highly enriched in cold-induced genes and thus may constitute a DNA regulatory element pair with a significant role in configuring the low-temperature transcriptome.

Major histocompatibility complex and other allergy-related candidate genes associated with insect bite hypersensitivity in Icelandic horses.

PubMed

Klumplerova, Marie; Vychodilova, Leona; Bobrova, Olga; Cvanova, Michaela; Futas, Jan; Janova, Eva; Vyskocil, Mirko; Vrtkova, Irena; Putnova, Lenka; Dusek, Ladislav; Marti, Eliane; Horin, Petr

2013-04-01

Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) is an allergic dermatitis of horses caused by bites of insects. IBH is a multifactorial disease with contribution of genetic and environmental factors. Candidate gene association analysis of IBH was performed in a group of 89 Icelandic horses all born in Iceland and imported to Europe. Horses were classified in IBH-affected and non-affected based on clinical signs and history of recurrent dermatitis, and on the results of an in vitro sulfidoleukotriene (sLT)-release assay with Culicoides nubeculosus and Simulium vittatum extract. Different genetic markers were tested for association with IBH by the Fisher's exact test. The effect of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene region was studied by genotyping five microsatellites spanning the MHC region (COR112, COR113, COR114, UM011 and UMN-JH34-2), and exon 2 polymorphisms of the class II Eqca-DRA gene. Associations with Eqca-DRA and COR113 were identified (p < 0.05). In addition, a panel of 20 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 17 candidate allergy-related genes was tested. During the initial screen, no marker from the panel was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with IBH. Five SNPs associated with IBH at p < 0.10 were therefore used for analysis of combined genotypes. Out of them, SNPs located in the genes coding for the CD14 receptor (CD14), interleukin 23 receptor (IL23R), thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFB3) molecules were associated with IBH as parts of complex genotypes. These results are supported by similar associations and by expression data from different horse populations and from human studies.

Whole body vibration exercise combined with an extract of Coriandrum sativum modify some biochemical/physiological parameters in rats

PubMed Central

Cardoso, André L.B.D.; Guimarães, Carlos A.S.; Almeida, Lívia P.; Neves, Rosane F.; Sá-Caputo, Danúbia C.; Moreira-Marconi, Eloá; Dionello, Carla F.; Morel, Danielle S.; Paineiras-Domingos, Laisa L.; Costa-Cavalcanti, Rebeca G.; Sousa-Gonçalves, Cintia R.; Arnóbio, Adriano; Asad, Nasser R.; Bernardo-Filho, Mario

2017-01-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the association of whole body vibration (WBV) exercise with an aqueous extract of coriander on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical sodium pertechnetate, on the concentration of some plasma biomarker, on the feed intake, on the body mass, and on the stool consistency in rats. Rats were divided in four groups and submitted to different treatments for 40 days. The control group (CON) received deionized water. The group treated with coriander (COR) received the extract of coriander. The rats that were exposed to WBV exercises (WBV-E) also received deionized water. A group of animals received coriander and was exposed to WBV (COR + WBV-E). We found in testis a decrease (0.13 ± 0.01 to 0.06 ± 0.03) of the percentages of injected radioactivity per gram (%ATI/g) in the WBV-E in comparison with the COR. There is no significant alteration on the concentrations of the plasma biomarkers. The feed intake showed a statistically significant increase in WBV-E. No significant difference on the body mass was found. The stool analysis showed a statistical difference on the consistency between COR (hard and dry, darker) and all the other groups (normal). In conclusion, it was verified that possible modifications in some biochemical/physiological parameters of the rats submitted to WBV exercise would be capable to increase the feed intake without changing the body mass, and normalizing the stool consistency altered by the coriander supplementation. Further studies are needed to try to understand better the biological effects involving the association of WBV exercise and coriander. PMID:28507199

Sero-prevalence and factors associated with Hepatitis B and C co-infection in pregnant Nigerian women living with HIV Infection

PubMed Central

Ezechi, Oliver Chukwujekwu; Kalejaiye, Olufunto Olufela; Gab-Okafor, Chidinma Vivian; Oladele, David Ayola; Oke, Bamidele Oludare; Musa, Zaidat Adesola; Ekama, Sabdat Ozichu; Ohwodo, Harry; Agahowa, Endurance; Gbajabiamilla, Titilola; Ezeobi, Paschal Mbanefo; Okwuraiwe, Azuka; Audu R, Rosemary Ajuma; Okoye, Rosemary Nwakaego; David, Agatha Nkiru; Odunukwe, Nkiruka Nonyelum; Onwujekwe, Dan Ifeanyi; Ujah, Innocent Achanya

2014-01-01

Introduction Perinatal and horizontal transmission of Hepatitis B occur in areas of high endemicity as most infections are acquired in the first 5 years of life. Unless Hepatitis B and C infected pregnant women identified, and appropriate treatment provided, children born to these women are at high risk of chronic Hepatitis B (and C) virus infection. The objecive of this study was to determined the prevalence and the factors associated with Hepatitis B and C Virus infection in pregnant HIV positive Nigerians. Methods A cross sectional study among HIV Positive pregnant women seen at a large PMTCT clinic in Lagos Nigeria. The women were screened for Hepatitis B and C Virus infection at enrollment. HIV viral load, CD4 count, liver transaminases and hemoglobin levels were also determined. Data were managed with SPSS for windows version. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutions Ethical Review Board. Results Of the 2391 studied subjects, 101(4.2%) and 37(1.5%) respectively were seropositive for Hepatitis B and C Virus infection. Twowomen (0. 08%) had triple infections. blood transfusion, (cOR: 2.3; 95% CI:1.1 - 4.6), history of induced abortion (cOR:2. 2;95% CI:1.3 - 3.6), and elevated baseline ALT (cOR:2. 2; 95%CI:2. 2;4.2) were significantly associated with HBV. History of induced abortion was the only factor found to be associated with HIV/ HCV (cOR: 1.9;95%CI:1. 3-3.9). Conclusion Hepatitis B Virus infection (4.2%) is relatively common in our environment and associated with induced abortion, blood transfusion and elevated baseline transaminase. Hepatitis C Virus infection (1.5%) is less common and associated with only history of induced abortion. PMID:25396023

Evaluation of the toxicity of graphene oxide exposure to the eye.

PubMed

Wu, Wei; Yan, Liang; Wu, Qian; Li, Yijian; Li, Qiyou; Chen, Siyu; Yang, Yuli; Gu, Zhanjun; Xu, Haiwei; Yin, Zheng Qin

2016-11-01

Graphene and its derivatives are the new carbon nanomaterials with the prospect for great applications in electronics, energy storage, biosensors and medicine. However, little is known about the toxicity of graphene or its derivatives in the case of occasional or repeated ocular exposure. We performed in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate the toxicity of graphene oxide (GO) exposure to the eye. Primary human corneal epithelium cells (hCorECs) and human conjunctiva epithelium cells (hConECs) were exposed to GO (12.5-100 μg/mL). Acute GO exposure (2 h) did not induce cytotoxicity to hCorECs. However, short-term GO exposure (24 h) exerted significant cytotoxicity to hCorECs and hConECs with increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Glutathione (GSH) reduced the GO-induced cytotoxicity. We further performed acute eye irritation tests in albino rabbits according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines, and the rabbits did not exhibit corneal opacity, conjunctival redness, abnormality of the iris, or chemosis at any time point after the instillation of 100 μg/mL of GO. However, 5-day repeated GO exposure (50 and 100 μg/mL) caused reversible mild corneal opacity, conjunctival redness and corneal epithelium damage to Sprague-Dawley rats, which was also alleviated by GSH. Therefore, our study suggests that GO-induced time- and dose-dependent cytotoxicity to hCorECs and hConECs via oxidative stress. Occasional GO exposure did not cause acute eye irritation; short-term repeated GO exposure generally resulted in reversible damage to the eye via oxidative stress, which may be alleviated by the antioxidant GSH.

Ocular biomechanical measurements on post-keratoplasty corneas using a Scheimpflug-based noncontact device

PubMed Central

Modis, Laszlo; Hassan, Ziad; Szalai, Eszter; Flaskó, Zsuzsanna; Berta, Andras; Nemeth, Gabor

2016-01-01

AIM To analyse ocular biomechanical properties, central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in post-keratoplasty eyes, as compared to normal subjects, with a new Scheimpflug-based technology. Moreover, biomechanical data were correlated with the size and age of the donor and recipient corneas. METHODS Measurements were conducted on 46 eyes of 46 healthy patients without any corneal pathology (age: 53.83±20.8y) and 30 eyes of 28 patients after penetrating keratoplasty (age: 49.43±21.34y). Ten biomechanical parameters, the CCT and IOP were recorded by corneal visualization scheimpflug technology (CorVis ST) using high-speed Scheimpflug imaging. Keratometry values were also recorded using Pentacam HR system. Scheimpflug measurements were performed after 43.41±40.17mo (range: 11-128mo) after the keratoplasty and after 7.64±2.34mo (range: 5-14mo) of suture removal. RESULTS Regarding the device-specific biomechanical parameters, the highest concavity time and radius values showed a significant decrease between these two groups (P=0.01 and P<0.001). None of other biomechanical parameters disclosed a significant difference. The CCT showed a significant difference between post-keratoplasty eyes as compared to normal subjects (P=0.003) using the CorVis ST device. The IOP was within the normal range in both groups (P=0.84). There were no significant relationships between the keratometric data, the size of the donor and recipient, age of the donor and recipient and biomechanical properties obtained by CorVis ST. CONCLUSION The ocular biomechanics remain stable after penetrating keratoplasty according to the CorVis ST measurements. Only two from the ten device-specific parameters have importance in the follow-up period after penetrating keratoplasty. PMID:26949641

Improving highway advisory radio predictability and performance

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) stations, sometimes referred to as Travelers Information Stations (TIS), : allow highway agencies to broadcast important messages about traffic, weather and roadway conditions to : motorists. Caltrans has deployed HAR ...

Preliminary comparative assessment of PM10 hourly measurement results from new monitoring stations type using stochastic and exploratory methodology and models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czechowski, Piotr Oskar; Owczarek, Tomasz; Badyda, Artur; Majewski, Grzegorz; Rogulski, Mariusz; Ogrodnik, Paweł

2018-01-01

The paper presents selected preliminary stage key issues proposed extended equivalence measurement results assessment for new portable devices - the comparability PM10 concentration results hourly series with reference station measurement results with statistical methods. In article presented new portable meters technical aspects. The emphasis was placed on the comparability the results using the stochastic and exploratory methods methodology concept. The concept is based on notice that results series simple comparability in the time domain is insufficient. The comparison of regularity should be done in three complementary fields of statistical modeling: time, frequency and space. The proposal is based on model's results of five annual series measurement results new mobile devices and WIOS (Provincial Environmental Protection Inspectorate) reference station located in Nowy Sacz city. The obtained results indicate both the comparison methodology completeness and the high correspondence obtained new measurements results devices with reference.

Q Conversion Factor Models for Estimating Precipitable Water Vapor for Turkey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deniz, Ilke; Mekik, Cetin; Gurbuz, Gokhan

2015-04-01

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have recently proved to be one of the crucial tools for determining continuous and precise precipitable water vapor (GNSS-MET networks). GNSS, especially CORS networks such as CORS-TR (the Turkish Network-RTK), provide high temporal and spatial accuracy for the wet tropospheric zenith delays which are then converted to the precipitable water vapor due to the fact that they can operate in all weather conditions continuously and economically. The accuracy of wet tropospheric zenith delay highly depends on the accuracy of precipitable water vapor content in the troposphere. Therefore, the precipitable water vapor is an important element of the tropospheric zenith delay. A number of studies can be found in the literature on the determination of the precipitable water vapor from the tropospheric zenith delay. Studies of Hogg showed that when the precipitable water vapor is known, the tropospheric zenith delay can be computed. Askne and Nodius have developed fundamental equations between the wet tropospheric zenith delay and the precipitable water vapor from the equation of the index of refraction in the troposphere. Furthermore, Bevis have developed a linear regression model to determine the weighted mean temperature (Tm) depending on the surface temperature (Ts) in Askne and Nodius studies. For this reason, nearly 9000 radiosonde profiles in USA were analyzed and the coefficients calculated. Similarly, there are other studies on the calculation of those coefficients for different regions: Solbrig for Germany, Liou for Taiwan, Jihyun for South Korea, Dongseob for North Korea, Suresh Raju for India, Boutiouta and Lahcene for Algeria, Bokoye for Canada, Baltink for Netherlands and Baltic, Bock for Africa. It is stated that the weighted mean temperature can be found with a root mean square error of ±2-5 K. In addition, there are studies on the calculation of the coefficients globally. Another model for the determination of precipitable water vapor is the conversion factor Q which is shown in Emardson and Derks' studies and also Jade and Vijayan's. Developing a regional model using either Tm-Ts equation or the conversion factor Q will provide a basis for GNSS Meteorology in Turkey which depends on the analysis of the radiosonde profile data. For this purpose, the radiosonde profiles from Istanbul, Ankara, Diyarbaki r, Samsun, Erzurum, Izmir, Isparta and Adana stations are analyzed with the radiosonde analysis algorithm in the context of the 'The Estimation of Atmospheric Water Vapour with GPS' Project which is funded by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK). The Project is also in the COST Action ES1206: Advanced Global Navigation Satellite Systems tropospheric products for monitoring severe weather events and climate (GNSS4SWEC). In this study, regional models using the conversion factor Q are used for the determination of precipitable water vapor, and applied to the GNSS derived wet tropospheric zenith delays. Henceforth, the estimated precipitable water vapor and the precipitable water vapor obtained from the radiosonde station are compared. The average of the differences between RS and models for Istanbul and Ankara stations are obtained as 2.0±1.6 mm, 1.6±1.6 mm, respectively.

Airborne and Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) RCS: DD-A&T(Q&A)823-421 Airborne & Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS) As of FY 2017...Information Program Name Airborne & Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS) DoD Component Army Responsible Office References SAR...UNCLASSIFIED 5 Mission and Description Airborne & Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS) products are software programmable

Isostatic gravity map of the Monterey 30 x 60 minute quadrangle and adjacent areas, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Langenheim, V.E.; Stiles, S.R.; Jachens, R.C.

2002-01-01

The digital dataset consists of one file (monterey_100k.iso) containing 2,385 gravity stations. The file, monterey_100k.iso, contains the principal facts of the gravity stations, with one point coded per line. The format of the data is described below. Each gravity station has a station name, location (latitude and longitude, NAD27 projection), elevation, and an observed gravity reading. The data are on the IGSN71 datum and the reference ellipsoid is the Geodetic Reference System 1967 (GRS67). The free-air gravity anomalies were calculated using standard formulas (Telford and others, 1976). The Bouguer, curvature, and terrain corrections were applied to the free-air anomaly at each station to determine the complete Bouguer gravity anomalies at a reduction density of 2.67 g/cc. An isostatic correction was then applied to remove the long-wavelength effect of deep crustal and/or upper mantle masses that isostatically support regional topography.

First example of a modular porphyrinoid assembly capable of stabilizing different metal ions in a single molecular scaffold.

PubMed

Murugavel, Muthuchamy; Reddy, R V Ramana; Dey, Dhananjay; Sankar, Jeyaraman

2015-10-05

We report the synthesis and characterization of porphyrin-corrole-porphyrin (Por-Cor-Por) hybrids directly linked at the meso-meso positions for the first time. The stability and solubility of the trimer are carefully balanced by adding electron-withdrawing substituents to the corrole ring and sterically bulky groups on the porphyrins. The new hybrids are capable of stabilizing more than one metal ion in a single molecular scaffold. The versatility of the triad has been demonstrated by successfully stabilizing homo- (Ni) and heterotrinuclear (Ni-Cu-Ni) coordination motifs. The solid-state structure of the NiPor-CuCor-PorNi hybrid was revealed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. The Ni(II) porphyrins are significantly ruffled and tilted by 83° from the plane of corrole. The robustness of the synthesized hybrids was reflected in the electrochemical investigations and the redox behaviour of the hybrids show that the oxidation processes are mostly corrole-centred. In particular it is worth noting that the Por-Cor-Por hybrid can further be manipulated due to the presence of substituent-free meso-positions on both the terminals. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Disclosure Control using Partially Synthetic Data for Large-Scale Health Surveys, with Applications to CanCORS

PubMed Central

Loong, Bronwyn; Zaslavsky, Alan M.; He, Yulei; Harrington, David P.

2013-01-01

Statistical agencies have begun to partially synthesize public-use data for major surveys to protect the confidentiality of respondents’ identities and sensitive attributes, by replacing high disclosure risk and sensitive variables with multiple imputations. To date, there are few applications of synthetic data techniques to large-scale healthcare survey data. Here, we describe partial synthesis of survey data collected by CanCORS, a comprehensive observational study of the experiences, treatments, and outcomes of patients with lung or colorectal cancer in the United States. We review inferential methods for partially synthetic data, and discuss selection of high disclosure risk variables for synthesis, specification of imputation models, and identification disclosure risk assessment. We evaluate data utility by replicating published analyses and comparing results using original and synthetic data, and discuss practical issues in preserving inferential conclusions. We found that important subgroup relationships must be included in the synthetic data imputation model, to preserve the data utility of the observed data for a given analysis procedure. We conclude that synthetic CanCORS data are suited best for preliminary data analyses purposes. These methods address the requirement to share data in clinical research without compromising confidentiality. PMID:23670983

Mutations in HYAL2, Encoding Hyaluronidase 2, Cause a Syndrome of Orofacial Clefting and Cor Triatriatum Sinister in Humans and Mice

PubMed Central

Hasan, S. Naimul; Mark, Brian; Harlalka, Gaurav V.; Patton, Michael A.; Ishida, Miho; Sharma, Sanjay; Faqeih, Eissa; Blakley, Brian; Jackson, Mike; Lees, Melissa; Dolinsky, Vernon; Cross, Leroy; Stanier, Philip; Salter, Claire; Baple, Emma L.; Crosby, Andrew H.

2017-01-01

Orofacial clefting is amongst the most common of birth defects, with both genetic and environmental components. Although numerous studies have been undertaken to investigate the complexities of the genetic etiology of this heterogeneous condition, this factor remains incompletely understood. Here, we describe mutations in the HYAL2 gene as a cause of syndromic orofacial clefting. HYAL2, encoding hyaluronidase 2, degrades extracellular hyaluronan, a critical component of the developing heart and palatal shelf matrix. Transfection assays demonstrated that the gene mutations destabilize the molecule, dramatically reducing HYAL2 protein levels. Consistent with the clinical presentation in affected individuals, investigations of Hyal2-/- mice revealed craniofacial abnormalities, including submucosal cleft palate. In addition, cor triatriatum sinister and hearing loss, identified in a proportion of Hyal2-/- mice, were also found as incompletely penetrant features in affected humans. Taken together our findings identify a new genetic cause of orofacial clefting in humans and mice, and define the first molecular cause of human cor triatriatum sinister, illustrating the fundamental importance of HYAL2 and hyaluronan turnover for normal human and mouse development. PMID:28081210

Test-retest reliability of the multifocal photopic negative response.

PubMed

Van Alstine, Anthony W; Viswanathan, Suresh

2017-02-01

To assess the test-retest reliability of the multifocal photopic negative response (mfPhNR) of normal human subjects. Multifocal electroretinograms were recorded from one eye of 61 healthy adult subjects on two separate days using a Visual Evoked Response Imaging System software version 4.3 (EDI, San Mateo, California). The visual stimulus delivered on a 75-Hz monitor consisted of seven equal-sized hexagons each subtending 12° of visual angle. The m-step exponent was 9, and the m-sequence was slowed to include at least 30 blank frames after each flash. Only the first slice of the first-order kernel was analyzed. The mfPhNR amplitude was measured at a fixed time in the trough from baseline (BT) as well as at the same fixed time in the trough from the preceding b-wave peak (PT). Additionally, we also analyzed BT normalized either to PT (BT/PT) or to the b-wave amplitude (BT/b-wave). The relative reliability of test-retest differences for each test location was estimated by the Wilcoxon matched-pair signed-rank test and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Absolute test-retest reliability was estimated by Bland-Altman analysis. The test-retest amplitude differences for neither of the two measurement techniques were statistically significant as determined by Wilcoxon matched-pair signed-rank test. PT measurements showed greater ICC values than BT amplitude measurements for all test locations. For each measurement technique, the ICC value of the macular response was greater than that of the surrounding locations. The mean test-retest difference was close to zero for both techniques at each of the test locations, and while the coefficient of reliability (COR-1.96 times the standard deviation of the test-retest difference) was comparable for the two techniques at each test location when expressed in nanovolts, the %COR (COR normalized to the mean test and retest amplitudes) was superior for PT than BT measurements. The ICC and COR were comparable for the BT/PT and BT/b-wave ratios and were better than the ICC and COR for BT but worse than PT. mfPhNR amplitude measured at a fixed time in the trough from the preceding b-wave peak (PT) shows greater test-retest reliability when compared to amplitude measurement from baseline (BT) or BT amplitude normalized to either the PT or b-wave amplitudes.

Performance of handheld electrocardiogram devices to detect atrial fibrillation in a cardiology and geriatric ward setting.

PubMed

Desteghe, Lien; Raymaekers, Zina; Lutin, Mark; Vijgen, Johan; Dilling-Boer, Dagmara; Koopman, Pieter; Schurmans, Joris; Vanduynhoven, Philippe; Dendale, Paul; Heidbuchel, Hein

2017-01-01

To determine the usability, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of two handheld single-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) devices for atrial fibrillation (AF) screening in a hospital population with an increased risk for AF. Hospitalized patients (n = 445) at cardiological or geriatric wards were screened for AF by two handheld ECG devices (MyDiagnostick and AliveCor). The performance of the automated algorithm of each device was evaluated against a full 12-lead or 6-lead ECG recording. All ECGs and monitor tracings were also independently reviewed in a blinded fashion by two electrophysiologists. Time investments by nurses and physicians were tracked and used to estimate cost-effectiveness of different screening strategies. Handheld recordings were not possible in 7 and 21.4% of cardiology and geriatric patients, respectively, because they were not able to hold the devices properly. Even after the exclusion of patients with an implanted device, sensitivity and specificity of the automated algorithms were suboptimal (Cardiology: 81.8 and 94.2%, respectively, for MyDiagnostick; 54.5 and 97.5%, respectively, for AliveCor; Geriatrics: 89.5 and 95.7%, respectively, for MyDiagnostick; 78.9 and 97.9%, respectively, for AliveCor). A scenario based on automated AliveCor evaluation in patients without AF history and without an implanted device proved to be the most cost-effective method, with a provider cost to identify one new AF patient of €193 and €82 at cardiology and geriatrics, respectively. The cost to detect one preventable stroke per year would be €7535 and €1916, respectively (based on average CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc of 3.9 ± 2.0 and 5.0 ± 1.5, respectively). Manual interpretation increases sensitivity, but decreases specificity, doubling the cost per detected patient, but remains cheaper than sole 12-lead ECG screening. Using AliveCor or MyDiagnostick handheld recorders requires a structured screening strategy to be effective and cost-effective in a hospital setting. It must exclude patients with implanted devices and known AF, and requires targeted additional 12-lead ECGs to optimize specificity. Under these circumstances, the expenses per diagnosed new AF patient and preventable stroke are reasonable. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

47 CFR 90.313 - Frequency loading criteria.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., Washington, or more from the location of base stations authorized on that pair without reference to loading... Industrial Radio Services, if the base station facility is to be used by more than a single licensee, the...

47 CFR 25.109 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... licensed under this part: (a) Amateur Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 97. (b) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 83. (c) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile...

47 CFR 25.109 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... licensed under this part: (a) Amateur Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 97. (b) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 83. (c) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile...

47 CFR 25.109 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... licensed under this part: (a) Amateur Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 97. (b) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile Satellite Service, see 47 CFR part 83. (c) Ship earth stations in the Maritime Mobile...

Stratus 12 Twelfth Setting of the Stratus Ocean Reference Station

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

22 - June 4, 2012 Valparaiso, Chile - Galapagos Islands, Ecuador by Sebastien Bigorre,1 Robert A. Weller,1 Jeff Lord,1 Nancy Galbraith,1 Sean Whelan,1...Institution, Woods Hole, MA 2 Universidad de Concepción, Chile 3 FICOLAB, Universidad de Concepción, Chile 4 National observer, Ecuador 5...Ocean Reference Station at 20°S, 85°W under the stratus clouds west of northern Chile is being maintained to provide ongoing climate-quality records

Space station human productivity study. Volume 4: Issues

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

The 305 Issues contained represent topics recommended for study in order to develop requirements in support of space station crew performance/productivity. The overall subject matter, space station elements affecting crew productivity, was organized into a coded subelement listing, which is included for the reader's reference. Each issue is numbered according to the 5-digit topical coding scheme. The requirements column on each Issue page shows a cross-reference to the unresolved requirement statement(s). Because topical overlaps were frequently encountered, many initial Issues were consolidated. Apparent gaps, therefore, may be accounted for by an Issue described within a related subelement. A glossary of abbreviations used throughout the study documentation is also included.

Space Station needs, attributes and architectural options, volume 2, book 2, part 4: International reports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

The capabilities of the European Space Agency's SPAS and EURECA platforms for reference payload accommodation are considered. The instrument pointing subsystem, the position and hold mount, and the antenna pointing mechanism developed by Dornier are described. Relevant payloads for the space station are summarized and space station accommodation aspects are discussed.

Effect of 3-D heterogeneous-earth on rheology inference of postseismic model following the 2012 Indian Ocean earthquake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pratama, C.; Ito, T.; Sasajima, R.; Tabei, T.; Kimata, F.; Gunawan, E.; Ohta, Y.; Yamashina, T.; Ismail, N.; Muksin, U.; Maulida, P.; Meilano, I.; Nurdin, I.; Sugiyanto, D.; Efendi, J.

2017-12-01

Postseismic deformation following the 2012 Indian Ocean earthquake has been modeled by several studies (Han et al. 2015, Hu et al. 2016, Masuti et al. 2016). Although each study used different method and dataset, the previous studies constructed a significant difference of earth structure. Han et al. (2015) ignored subducting slab beneath Sumatra while Masuti et al. (2016) neglect sphericity of the earth. Hu et al. (2016) incorporated elastic slab and spherical earth but used uniform rigidity in each layer of the model. As a result, Han et al. (2015) model estimated one order higher Maxwell viscosity than the Hu et al. (2016) and half order lower Kelvin viscosity than the Masuti et al. (2016) model predicted. In the present study, we conduct a quantitative analysis of each heterogeneous geometry and parameter effect on rheology inference. We develop heterogeneous three-dimensional spherical-earth finite element models. We investigate the effect of subducting slab, spherical earth, and three-dimensional earth rigidity on estimated lithosphere-asthenosphere rheology beneath the Indian Ocean. A wide range of viscosity structure from time constant rheology to time dependent rheology was chosen as previous studies have been modeled. In order to evaluate actual displacement, we compared the model to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observation. We incorporate the GNSS data from previous studies and introduce new GNSS site as a part of the Indonesian Continuously Operating Reference Stations (InaCORS) located in Sumatra that has not been used in the last analysis. As a preliminary result, we obtained the effect of the spherical earth and elastic slab when we assumed burgers rheology. The model that incorporates the sphericity of the earth needs a one third order lower viscosity than the model that neglects earth curvature. The model that includes elastic slab needs half order lower viscosity than the model that excluding the elastic slab.

Multi-GNSS Opportunities and Challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Shaery, A.; Zhang, S.; Lim, S.; Rizos, C.

2012-04-01

The multi-GNSS era has began attracting more attention with the declaration of full operational capability of GLONASS , with a 24 satellites being set to 'healthy' on December 8th 2011 (IAC, 2011). This means that GPS is no longer the only GNSS that provides global positioning coverage. This status brings benefits for GNSS users in areas (e.g. 'urban canyon' environments or in deep open cut mines) where the number of visible satellites is limited because of shadowing effects. In such areas adding more functioning satellites, which is one of the aiding solutions, becomes easier, at no extra cost. The inclusion of GLONASS observations in positioning solutions will increase the available number of satellites and thus positioning accuracy may improve as a result of enhanced overall satellite geometry. Such an aiding solution is increasingly attractive due to the successful revitalisation of GLONASS. Another motivation is the availability of improved GLONASS orbits from the IGS and individual analysis centres of the IGS. The increasing availability of receivers with GPS/GLONASS tracking capability on the market is an additional motive. Consequently, most networks of continuously operating reference stations (CORS) are now equipped with receivers that can track both GPS and GLONASS satellite signals, and therefore network-based positioning with combined GPS and GLONASS observations is possible. However, adding GLONASS observations to GPS is not a straight forward process. This is attributable to a few system differences in reference frames for time and coordinates, and in signal structures. The first two differences are easy to deal with using well-defined conversion and transformation parameters (El-Mowafy, 2001). However, signal structure differences have some implications. The mathematical modelling of combined GPS/GLONASS observations is not performed as in the case of GPS-alone. Special care should be paid to such integration. Not only is the software part affected but also the hardware. Recent research has identified one of the challenges users may face if precise positioning is sought (Takac, 2009, Yamada et al., 2010, Wanninger, 2011). A user of heterogeneous receiver pairs will experience ambiguity fixing challenges due to inter-channel bias which cannot be cancelled by differencing GLONASS observations, pseudorange or carrier-phase. This paper outlines the opportunities and challenges of combining two currently fully operational GNSS systems (GPS and GLONASS) for precise positioning solutions. Discussion and analysis considering mathematical modelling challenges and users' selection of hardware constraints will be performed.

47 CFR 301.10 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Cross-reference. 301.10 Section 301.10 Telecommunication NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE RELOCATION OF AND SPECTRUM SHARING BY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STATIONS General Information § 301.10 Cross-reference. The...

47 CFR 301.10 - Cross-reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Cross-reference. 301.10 Section 301.10 Telecommunication NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE RELOCATION OF AND SPECTRUM SHARING BY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STATIONS General Information § 301.10 Cross-reference. The...

H2FIRST Reference Station Design Task: Project Deliverable 2-2

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

Pratt, Joseph; Terlip, Danny; Ainscough, Chris

2015-04-20

This report presents near-term station cost results and discusses cost trends of different station types. It compares various vehicle rollout scenarios and projects realistic near-term station utilization values using the station infrastructure rollout in California as an example. It describes near-term market demands and matches those to cost-effective station concepts. Finally, the report contains detailed designs for five selected stations, which include piping and instrumentation diagrams, bills of materials, and several site-specific layout studies that incorporate the setbacks required by NFPA 2, the National Fire Protection Association Hydrogen Technologies Code. This work identified those setbacks as a significant factor affectingmore » the ability to site a hydrogen station, particularly liquid stations at existing gasoline stations. For all station types, utilization has a large influence on the financial viability of the station.« less

Coronafacoyl Phytotoxin Biosynthesis and Evolution in the Common Scab Pathogen Streptomyces scabiei

PubMed Central

Bown, Luke; Li, Yuting; Berrué, Fabrice; Verhoeven, Joost T. P.; Dufour, Suzanne C.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Coronafacoyl phytotoxins are an important family of plant toxins that are produced by several different phytopathogenic bacteria, including the gammaproteobacterium Pseudomonas syringae and the actinobacterium Streptomyces scabiei (formerly Streptomyces scabies). The phytotoxins consist of coronafacic acid (CFA) linked via an amide bond to different amino acids or amino acid derivatives. Previous work suggested that S. scabiei and P. syringae use distinct biosynthetic pathways for producing CFA, which is subsequently linked to its amino acid partner to form the complete phytotoxin. Here, we provide further evidence that the S. scabiei CFA biosynthetic pathway is novel by characterizing the role of CYP107AK1, a predicted cytochrome P450 that has no homologue in P. syringae. Deletion of the CYP107AK1 gene abolished production of coronafacoyl-isoleucine (CFA-Ile), the primary coronafacoyl phytotoxin produced by S. scabiei. Structural elucidation of accumulated biosynthetic intermediates in the ΔCYP107AK1 mutant indicated that CYP107AK1 is required for introducing the oxygen atom that ultimately forms the carbonyl group in the CFA backbone. The CYP107AK1 gene along with two additional genes involved in CFA-Ile biosynthesis in S. scabiei were found to be associated with putative CFA biosynthetic genes in other actinobacteria but not in other organisms. Analysis of the overall genetic content and organization of known and putative CFA biosynthetic gene clusters, together with phylogenetic analysis of the core biosynthetic genes, indicates that horizontal gene transfer has played an important role in the dissemination of the gene cluster and that rearrangement, insertion, and/or deletion events have likely contributed to the divergent biosynthetic evolution of coronafacoyl phytotoxins in bacteria. IMPORTANCE The ability of plants to defend themselves against invading pathogens relies on complex signaling pathways that are controlled by key phytohormones such as jasmonic acid (JA). Some phytopathogenic bacteria have evolved the ability to manipulate JA signaling in order to overcome host defenses by producing coronatine (COR), which functions as a potent JA mimic. COR and COR-like molecules, collectively referred to as coronafacoyl phytotoxins, are produced by several different plant-pathogenic bacteria, and this study provides supporting evidence that different biosynthetic pathways are utilized by different bacteria for production of these phytotoxins. In addition, our study provides a greater understanding of how coronafacoyl phytotoxin biosynthesis may have evolved in phylogenetically distinct bacteria, and we demonstrate that production of these compounds may be more widespread than previously recognized and that their role for the producing organism may not be limited to host-pathogen interactions. PMID:28754703

Optimization of Actuating Origami Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buskohl, Philip; Fuchi, Kazuko; Bazzan, Giorgio; Joo, James; Gregory, Reich; Vaia, Richard

2015-03-01

Origami structures morph between 2D and 3D conformations along predetermined fold lines that efficiently program the form, function and mobility of the structure. By leveraging design concepts from action origami, a subset of origami art focused on kinematic mechanisms, reversible folding patterns for applications such as solar array packaging, tunable antennae, and deployable sensing platforms may be designed. However, the enormity of the design space and the need to identify the requisite actuation forces within the structure places a severe limitation on design strategies based on intuition and geometry alone. The present work proposes a topology optimization method, using truss and frame element analysis, to distribute foldline mechanical properties within a reference crease pattern. Known actuating patterns are placed within a reference grid and the optimizer adjusts the fold stiffness of the network to optimally connect them. Design objectives may include a target motion, stress level, or mechanical energy distribution. Results include the validation of known action origami structures and their optimal connectivity within a larger network. This design suite offers an important step toward systematic incorporation of origami design concepts into new, novel and reconfigurable engineering devices. This research is supported under the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) funding, LRIR 13RQ02COR.

MODEL-BASED HYDROACOUSTIC BLOCKAGE ASSESSMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OF AN EXPLOSIVE SOURCE DATABASE

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

Matzel, E; Ramirez, A; Harben, P

2005-07-11

We are continuing the development of the Hydroacoustic Blockage Assessment Tool (HABAT) which is designed for use by analysts to predict which hydroacoustic monitoring stations can be used in discrimination analysis for any particular event. The research involves two approaches (1) model-based assessment of blockage, and (2) ground-truth data-based assessment of blockage. The tool presents the analyst with a map of the world, and plots raypath blockages from stations to sources. The analyst inputs source locations and blockage criteria, and the tool returns a list of blockage status from all source locations to all hydroacoustic stations. We are currently usingmore » the tool in an assessment of blockage criteria for simple direct-path arrivals. Hydroacoustic data, predominantly from earthquake sources, are read in and assessed for blockage at all available stations. Several measures are taken. First, can the event be observed at a station above background noise? Second, can we establish backazimuth from the station to the source. Third, how large is the decibel drop at one station relative to other stations. These observational results are then compared with model estimates to identify the best set of blockage criteria and used to create a set of blockage maps for each station. The model-based estimates are currently limited by the coarse bathymetry of existing databases and by the limitations inherent in the raytrace method. In collaboration with BBN Inc., the Hydroacoustic Coverage Assessment Model (HydroCAM) that generates the blockage files that serve as input to HABAT, is being extended to include high-resolution bathymetry databases in key areas that increase model-based blockage assessment reliability. An important aspect of this capability is to eventually include reflected T-phases where they reliably occur and to identify the associated reflectors. To assess how well any given hydroacoustic discriminant works in separating earthquake and in-water explosion populations it is necessary to have both a database of reference earthquake events and of reference in-water explosive events. Although reference earthquake events are readily available, explosive reference events are not. Consequently, building an in-water explosion reference database requires the compilation of events from many sources spanning a long period of time. We have developed a database of small implosive and explosive reference events from the 2003 Indian Ocean Cruise data. These events were recorded at some or all of the IMS Indian Ocean hydroacoustic stations: Diego Garcia, Cape Leeuwin, and Crozet Island. We have also reviewed many historical large in-water explosions and identified five that have adequate source information and can be positively associated to the hydrophone recordings. The five events are: Cannekin, Longshot, CHASE-3, CHASE-5, and IITRI-1. Of these, the first two are nuclear tests on land but near water. The latter three are in-water conventional explosive events with yields from ten to hundreds of tons TNT equivalent. The objective of this research is to enhance discrimination capabilities for events located in the world's oceans. Two research and development efforts are needed to achieve this: (1) improvement in discrimination algorithms and their joint statistical application to events, and (2) development of an automated and accurate blockage prediction capability that will identify all stations and phases (direct and reflected) from a given event that will have adequate signal to be used in a discrimination analysis. The strategy for improving blockage prediction in the world's oceans is to improve model-based prediction of blockage and to develop a ground-truth database of reference events to assess blockage. Currently, research is focused on the development of a blockage assessment software tool. The tool is envisioned to develop into a sophisticated and unifying package that optimally and automatically assesses both model and data based blockage predictions in all ocean basins, for all NDC stations, and accounting for reflected phases (Pulli et al., 2000). Currently, we have focused our efforts on the Diego Garcia, Cape Leeuwin and Crozet Island hydroacoustic stations in the Indian Ocean.« less

Enhanced Positioning Algorithm of ARPS for Improving Accuracy and Expanding Service Coverage

PubMed Central

Lee, Kyuman; Baek, Hoki; Lim, Jaesung

2016-01-01

The airborne relay-based positioning system (ARPS), which employs the relaying of navigation signals, was proposed as an alternative positioning system. However, the ARPS has limitations, such as relatively large vertical error and service restrictions, because firstly, the user position is estimated based on airborne relays that are located in one direction, and secondly, the positioning is processed using only relayed navigation signals. In this paper, we propose an enhanced positioning algorithm to improve the performance of the ARPS. The main idea of the enhanced algorithm is the adaptable use of either virtual or direct measurements of reference stations in the calculation process based on the structural features of the ARPS. Unlike the existing two-step algorithm for airborne relay and user positioning, the enhanced algorithm is divided into two cases based on whether the required number of navigation signals for user positioning is met. In the first case, where the number of signals is greater than four, the user first estimates the positions of the airborne relays and its own initial position. Then, the user position is re-estimated by integrating a virtual measurement of a reference station that is calculated using the initial estimated user position and known reference positions. To prevent performance degradation, the re-estimation is performed after determining its requirement through comparing the expected position errors. If the navigation signals are insufficient, such as when the user is outside of airborne relay coverage, the user position is estimated by additionally using direct signal measurements of the reference stations in place of absent relayed signals. The simulation results demonstrate that a higher accuracy level can be achieved because the user position is estimated based on the measurements of airborne relays and a ground station. Furthermore, the service coverage is expanded by using direct measurements of reference stations for user positioning. PMID:27529252

Enhanced Positioning Algorithm of ARPS for Improving Accuracy and Expanding Service Coverage.

PubMed

Lee, Kyuman; Baek, Hoki; Lim, Jaesung

2016-08-12

The airborne relay-based positioning system (ARPS), which employs the relaying of navigation signals, was proposed as an alternative positioning system. However, the ARPS has limitations, such as relatively large vertical error and service restrictions, because firstly, the user position is estimated based on airborne relays that are located in one direction, and secondly, the positioning is processed using only relayed navigation signals. In this paper, we propose an enhanced positioning algorithm to improve the performance of the ARPS. The main idea of the enhanced algorithm is the adaptable use of either virtual or direct measurements of reference stations in the calculation process based on the structural features of the ARPS. Unlike the existing two-step algorithm for airborne relay and user positioning, the enhanced algorithm is divided into two cases based on whether the required number of navigation signals for user positioning is met. In the first case, where the number of signals is greater than four, the user first estimates the positions of the airborne relays and its own initial position. Then, the user position is re-estimated by integrating a virtual measurement of a reference station that is calculated using the initial estimated user position and known reference positions. To prevent performance degradation, the re-estimation is performed after determining its requirement through comparing the expected position errors. If the navigation signals are insufficient, such as when the user is outside of airborne relay coverage, the user position is estimated by additionally using direct signal measurements of the reference stations in place of absent relayed signals. The simulation results demonstrate that a higher accuracy level can be achieved because the user position is estimated based on the measurements of airborne relays and a ground station. Furthermore, the service coverage is expanded by using direct measurements of reference stations for user positioning.

Airborne relay-based regional positioning system.

PubMed

Lee, Kyuman; Noh, Hongjun; Lim, Jaesung

2015-05-28

Ground-based pseudolite systems have some limitations, such as low vertical accuracy, multipath effects and near-far problems. These problems are not significant in airborne-based pseudolite systems. However, the monitoring of pseudolite positions is required because of the mobility of the platforms on which the pseudolites are mounted, and this causes performance degradation. To address these pseudolite system limitations, we propose an airborne relay-based regional positioning system that consists of a master station, reference stations, airborne relays and a user. In the proposed system, navigation signals are generated from the reference stations located on the ground and are relayed via the airborne relays. Unlike in conventional airborne-based systems, the user in the proposed system sequentially estimates both the locations of airborne relays and his/her own position. Therefore, a delay due to monitoring does not occur, and the accuracy is not affected by the movement of airborne relays. We conducted several simulations to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. Based on the simulation results, we demonstrated that the proposed system guarantees a higher accuracy than airborne-based pseudolite systems, and it is feasible despite the existence of clock offsets among reference stations.

Airborne Relay-Based Regional Positioning System

PubMed Central

Lee, Kyuman; Noh, Hongjun; Lim, Jaesung

2015-01-01

Ground-based pseudolite systems have some limitations, such as low vertical accuracy, multipath effects and near-far problems. These problems are not significant in airborne-based pseudolite systems. However, the monitoring of pseudolite positions is required because of the mobility of the platforms on which the pseudolites are mounted, and this causes performance degradation. To address these pseudolite system limitations, we propose an airborne relay-based regional positioning system that consists of a master station, reference stations, airborne relays and a user. In the proposed system, navigation signals are generated from the reference stations located on the ground and are relayed via the airborne relays. Unlike in conventional airborne-based systems, the user in the proposed system sequentially estimates both the locations of airborne relays and his/her own position. Therefore, a delay due to monitoring does not occur, and the accuracy is not affected by the movement of airborne relays. We conducted several simulations to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. Based on the simulation results, we demonstrated that the proposed system guarantees a higher accuracy than airborne-based pseudolite systems, and it is feasible despite the existence of clock offsets among reference stations. PMID:26029953

Station Coordinates Combination Status and Contribution to ITRF2005

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferland, R.

2007-12-01

Under the auspices of the International GNSS Service (IGS), the Reference Frame Working Group combines at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) an accurate and consistent set of station coordinates, velocities and Earth Rotation Parameters (ERP) that are updated weekly. The consistency of these parameters is ensured by simultaneously combining them using their full variance-covariance information. The IGS Analysis Centers (ACs) (cod, emr, esa, gfz, jpl, mit, ngs, sio) provide the solutions used in the IGS weekly combination. The Global Network Associates Analysis Centers (GNAAC) (mit, ncl) also generate weekly combined solutions that include consistent station coordinates and ERPs. Those GNAAC solutions are used for comparisons and quality control of the IGS weekly solution. In recent weeks each AC has been contributing between about 50 and 250 station coordinates estimates. The combined product currently approaches 300 stations. Of those, between 40 and 110 are used for the current IGS reference frame realization of the ITRF2005 in each AC solution. The quality of the AC station coordinates solutions has improved significantly since they have started contributing in early 1996. This is due to the densification of the network of stations along with gradual improvements in station hardware and processing software. For recent solutions, the estimated noise (std. dev.) level between the AC weekly solutions and the different combined solutions varies between 1-3mm horizontally and 2-10mm vertically. More details about the statistics, their evolution and differences between the ACs will be presented. IGS weekly station coordinates and ERP combined products have also been contributed to the ITRF2005. Those weekly solutions were all recombined from the original AC contributions, going back to the beginning of 1996. The recombined solutions were edited for known problems (e.g. incorrect antenna heights and outliers). Several stations with short time span were also removed. A list of station coordinates discontinuities was also prepared, in collaboration with several individuals and contributed to the IERS. Since November 5, 2006 (GPS week 1400), the IGS has implemented a realization of ITRF2005. It includes mainly the change from relative to absolute antenna phase centers and an update of the selected reference frame stations for the new realization. An expected change of scale from about 3 ppb to -0.7 ppb caused by the phase center shift was observed.

Assessment of the accuracy of global geodetic satellite laser ranging observations and estimated impact on ITRF scale: estimation of systematic errors in LAGEOS observations 1993-2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Appleby, Graham; Rodríguez, José; Altamimi, Zuheir

2016-12-01

Satellite laser ranging (SLR) to the geodetic satellites LAGEOS and LAGEOS-2 uniquely determines the origin of the terrestrial reference frame and, jointly with very long baseline interferometry, its scale. Given such a fundamental role in satellite geodesy, it is crucial that any systematic errors in either technique are at an absolute minimum as efforts continue to realise the reference frame at millimetre levels of accuracy to meet the present and future science requirements. Here, we examine the intrinsic accuracy of SLR measurements made by tracking stations of the International Laser Ranging Service using normal point observations of the two LAGEOS satellites in the period 1993 to 2014. The approach we investigate in this paper is to compute weekly reference frame solutions solving for satellite initial state vectors, station coordinates and daily Earth orientation parameters, estimating along with these weekly average range errors for each and every one of the observing stations. Potential issues in any of the large number of SLR stations assumed to have been free of error in previous realisations of the ITRF may have been absorbed in the reference frame, primarily in station height. Likewise, systematic range errors estimated against a fixed frame that may itself suffer from accuracy issues will absorb network-wide problems into station-specific results. Our results suggest that in the past two decades, the scale of the ITRF derived from the SLR technique has been close to 0.7 ppb too small, due to systematic errors either or both in the range measurements and their treatment. We discuss these results in the context of preparations for ITRF2014 and additionally consider the impact of this work on the currently adopted value of the geocentric gravitational constant, GM.

Reduction of ZTD outliers through improved GNSS data processing and screening strategies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepniak, Katarzyna; Bock, Olivier; Wielgosz, Pawel

2018-03-01

Though Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data processing has been significantly improved over the years, it is still commonly observed that zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) estimates contain many outliers which are detrimental to meteorological and climatological applications. In this paper, we show that ZTD outliers in double-difference processing are mostly caused by sub-daily data gaps at reference stations, which cause disconnections of clusters of stations from the reference network and common mode biases due to the strong correlation between stations in short baselines. They can reach a few centimetres in ZTD and usually coincide with a jump in formal errors. The magnitude and sign of these biases are impossible to predict because they depend on different errors in the observations and on the geometry of the baselines. We elaborate and test a new baseline strategy which solves this problem and significantly reduces the number of outliers compared to the standard strategy commonly used for positioning (e.g. determination of national reference frame) in which the pre-defined network is composed of a skeleton of reference stations to which secondary stations are connected in a star-like structure. The new strategy is also shown to perform better than the widely used strategy maximizing the number of observations available in many GNSS programs. The reason is that observations are maximized before processing, whereas the final number of used observations can be dramatically lower because of data rejection (screening) during the processing. The study relies on the analysis of 1 year of GPS (Global Positioning System) data from a regional network of 136 GNSS stations processed using Bernese GNSS Software v.5.2. A post-processing screening procedure is also proposed to detect and remove a few outliers which may still remain due to short data gaps. It is based on a combination of range checks and outlier checks of ZTD and formal errors. The accuracy of the final screened GPS ZTD estimates is assessed by comparison to ERA-Interim reanalysis.

47 CFR 73.1209 - References to time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false References to time. 73.1209 Section 73.1209 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) BROADCAST RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES Rules Applicable to All Broadcast Stations § 73.1209 References to time. Unless specifically designated...

An investigation on generalization ability of artificial neural networks and M5 model tree in modeling reference evapotranspiration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kisi, Ozgur; Kilic, Yasin

2016-11-01

The generalization ability of artificial neural networks (ANNs) and M5 model tree (M5Tree) in modeling reference evapotranspiration ( ET 0 ) is investigated in this study. Daily climatic data, average temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, and relative humidity from six different stations operated by California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS) located in two different regions of the USA were used in the applications. King-City Oasis Rd., Arroyo Seco, and Salinas North stations are located in San Joaquin region, and San Luis Obispo, Santa Monica, and Santa Barbara stations are located in the Southern region. In the first part of the study, the ANN and M5Tree models were used for estimating ET 0 of six stations and results were compared with the empirical methods. The ANN and M5Tree models were found to be better than the empirical models. In the second part of the study, the ANN and M5Tree models obtained from one station were tested using the data from the other two stations for each region. ANN models performed better than the CIMIS Penman, Hargreaves, Ritchie, and Turc models in two stations while the M5Tree models generally showed better accuracy than the corresponding empirical models in all stations. In the third part of the study, the ANN and M5Tree models were calibrated using three stations located in San Joaquin region and tested using the data from the other three stations located in the Southern region. Four-input ANN and M5Tree models performed better than the CIMIS Penman in only one station while the two-input ANN models were found to be better than the Hargreaves, Ritchie, and Turc models in two stations.

Data reduction and tying in regional gravity surveys—results from a new gravity base station network and the Bouguer gravity anomaly map for northeastern Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hurtado-Cardador, Manuel; Urrutia-Fucugauchi, Jaime

2006-12-01

Since 1947 Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) has conducted oil exploration projects using potential field methods. Geophysical exploration companies under contracts with Pemex carried out gravity anomaly surveys that were referred to different floating data. Each survey comprises observations of gravity stations along highways, roads and trails at intervals of about 500 m. At present, 265 separate gravimeter surveys that cover 60% of the Mexican territory (mainly in the oil producing regions of Mexico) are available. This gravity database represents the largest, highest spatial resolution information, and consequently has been used in the geophysical data compilations for the Mexico and North America gravity anomaly maps. Regional integration of gravimeter surveys generates gradients and spurious anomalies in the Bouguer anomaly maps at the boundaries of the connected surveys due to the different gravity base stations utilized. The main objective of this study is to refer all gravimeter surveys from Pemex to a single new first-order gravity base station network, in order to eliminate problems of gradients and spurious anomalies. A second objective is to establish a network of permanent gravity base stations (BGP), referred to a single base from the World Gravity System. Four regional loops of BGP covering eight States of Mexico were established to support the tie of local gravity base stations from each of the gravimeter surveys located in the vicinity of these loops. The third objective is to add the gravity constants, measured and calculated, for each of the 265 gravimeter surveys to their corresponding files in the Pemex and Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo database. The gravity base used as the common datum is the station SILAG 9135-49 (Latin American System of Gravity) located in the National Observatory of Tacubaya in Mexico City. We present the results of the installation of a new gravity base network in northeastern Mexico, reference of the 43 gravimeter surveys to the new network, the regional compilation of Bouguer gravity data and a new updated Bouguer gravity anomaly map for northeastern Mexico.

Particulate Matter Exposure in a Police Station Located near a Highway.

PubMed

Chen, Yu-Cheng; Hsu, Chin-Kai; Wang, Chia C; Tsai, Perng-Jy; Wang, Chun-Yuan; Chen, Mei-Ru; Lin, Ming-Yeng

2015-11-13

People living or working near roadways have experienced an increase in cardiovascular or respiratory diseases due to vehicle emissions. Very few studies have focused on the PM exposure of highway police officers, particularly for the number concentration and size distribution of ultrafine particles (UFP). This study evaluated exposure concentrations of particulate matter (PM) in the Sinying police station near a highway located in Tainan, Taiwan, under different traffic volumes, traffic types, and shift times. We focused on periods when the wind blew from the highway toward the police station and when the wind speed was greater than or equal to 0.5 m/s. PM2.5, UFP, and PM-PAHs concentrations in the police station and an upwind reference station were measured. Results indicate that PM2.5, UFP, and PM-PAHs concentrations in the police station can be on average 1.13, 2.17, and 5.81 times more than the upwind reference station concentrations, respectively. The highest exposure level for PM2.5 and UFP was observed during the 12:00 PM-4:00 PM shift while the highest PAHs concentration was found in the 4:00 AM-8:00 AM shift. Thus, special attention needs to be given to protect police officers from exposure to high PM concentration.

Particulate Matter Exposure in a Police Station Located near a Highway

PubMed Central

Chen, Yu-Cheng; Hsu, Chin-Kai; Wang, Chia C.; Tsai, Perng-Jy; Wang, Chun-Yuan; Chen, Mei-Ru; Lin, Ming-Yeng

2015-01-01

People living or working near roadways have experienced an increase in cardiovascular or respiratory diseases due to vehicle emissions. Very few studies have focused on the PM exposure of highway police officers, particularly for the number concentration and size distribution of ultrafine particles (UFP). This study evaluated exposure concentrations of particulate matter (PM) in the Sinying police station near a highway located in Tainan, Taiwan, under different traffic volumes, traffic types, and shift times. We focused on periods when the wind blew from the highway toward the police station and when the wind speed was greater than or equal to 0.5 m/s. PM2.5, UFP, and PM-PAHs concentrations in the police station and an upwind reference station were measured. Results indicate that PM2.5, UFP, and PM-PAHs concentrations in the police station can be on average 1.13, 2.17, and 5.81 times more than the upwind reference station concentrations, respectively. The highest exposure level for PM2.5 and UFP was observed during the 12:00 PM–4:00 PM shift while the highest PAHs concentration was found in the 4:00 AM–8:00 AM shift. Thus, special attention needs to be given to protect police officers from exposure to high PM concentration. PMID:26580641

Multi-geodetic characterization of the seasonal signal at the CERGA geodetic reference, France

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Memin, A.; Viswanathan, V.; Fienga, A.; Santamaría-Gómez, A.; Boy, J. P.

2016-12-01

Crustal deformations due to surface-mass loading account for a significant part of the variability in geodetic time series. A perfect understanding of the loading signal observed by geodetic techniques should help in improving terrestrial reference frame (TRF) realizations. Yet, discrepancies between crustal motion estimates from models of surface-mass loading and observations are still too large so that no model is currently recommended by the IERS for reducing the data. We investigate the discrepancy observed in the seasonal variations of the CERGA station, South of France.We characterize the seasonal motions of the reference geodetic station CERGA from GNSS, SLR and LLR. We compare the station motion observed with GNSS and SLR and we estimate changes in the station-to-the-moon distance using an improved processing strategy. We investigate the consistency between these geodetic techniques and compare the observed station motion with that estimated using models of surface-mass change. In that regard, we compute atmospheric loading effects using surface pressure fields from ECMWF, assuming an ocean response according to the classical inverted barometer (IB) assumption, considered to be valid for periods typically exceeding a week. We also used general circulation ocean models (ECCO and GLORYS) forced by wind, heat and fresh water fluxes. The continental water storage is described using GLDAS/Noah and MERRA-land models.Using the surface-mass models, we estimate the amplitude of the seasonal vertical motion of the CERGA station ranging between 5 and 10 mm with a maximum reached in August, mostly due to hydrology. The horizontal seasonal motion of the station may reach up to 3 mm. Such a station motion should induce a change in the distance to the moon reaching up to 10 mm, large enough to be detected in LLR time series and compared to GNSS- and SLR-derived motion.

Establishment of Karadeniz Technical University Permanent GNSS Station as Reactivated of TRAB IGS Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazancı, Selma Zengin; Kayıkçı, Emine Tanır

2017-12-01

In recent years, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have gained great importance in terms of the benefi ts it provides such as precise geodetic point positioning, determining crustal deformations, navigation, vehicle monitoring systems and meteorological applications etc. As in Turkey, for this purpose, each country has set up its own GNSS station networks like Turkish National Permanent RTK Network analyzed precise station coordinates and velocities together with the International GNSS Service, Turkish National Fundamental GPS Network and Turkish National Permanent GNSS Network (TNPGN) stations not only are utilized as precise positioning but also GNSS meteorology studies so total number of stations are increased. This work is related to the reactivated of the TRAB IGS station which was established in Karadeniz Technical University, Department of Geomatics Engineering. Within the COST ES1206 Action (GNSS4SWEC) KTU analysis center was established and Trop-NET system developed by Geodetic Observatory Pecny (GOP, RIGTC) in order to troposphere monitoring. The project titled "Using Regional GNSS Networks to Strengthen Severe Weather Prediction" was accepted to the scientifi c and technological research council of Turkey (TUBITAK). With this project, we will design 2 new constructed GNSS reference station network. Using observation data of network, we will compare water vapor distribution derived by GNSS Meteorology and GNSS Tomography. At this time, KTU AC was accepted as E-GVAP Analysis Centre in December 2016. KTU reference station is aimed to be a member of the EUREF network with these studies.

Designing an Ergonomically Correct CNC Workstation on a Shoe String Budget.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lightner, Stan

2001-01-01

Describes research to design and construct ergonomically correct work stations for Computer Numerical Control machine tools. By designing ergonomically correct work stations, industrial technology teachers help protect students from repetitive motion injuries. (Contains 12 references.) (JOW)

Study of the GPS inter-frequency calibration of timing receivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Defraigne, P.; Huang, W.; Bertrand, B.; Rovera, D.

2018-02-01

When calibrating Global Positioning System (GPS) stations dedicated to timing, the hardware delays of P1 and P2, the P(Y)-codes on frequencies L1 and L2, are determined separately. In the international atomic time (TAI) network the GPS stations of the time laboratories are calibrated relatively against reference stations. This paper aims at determining the consistency between the P1 and P2 hardware delays (called dP1 and dP2) of these reference stations, and to look at the stability of the inter-signal hardware delays dP1-dP2 of all the stations in the network. The method consists of determining the dP1-dP2 directly from the GPS pseudorange measurements corrected for the frequency-dependent antenna phase center and the frequency-dependent ionosphere corrections, and then to compare these computed dP1-dP2 to the calibrated values. Our results show that the differences between the computed and calibrated dP1-dP2 are well inside the expected combined uncertainty of the two quantities. Furthermore, the consistency between the calibrated time transfer solution obtained from either single-frequency P1 or dual-frequency P3 for reference laboratories is shown to be about 1.0 ns, well inside the 2.1 ns uB uncertainty of a time transfer link based on GPS P3 or Precise Point Positioning. This demonstrates the good consistency between the P1 and P2 hardware delays of the reference stations used for calibration in the TAI network. The long-term stability of the inter-signal hardware delays is also analysed from the computed dP1-dP2. It is shown that only variations larger than 2 ns can be detected for a particular station, while variations of 200 ps can be detected when differentiating the results between two stations. Finally, we also show that in the differential calibration process as used in the TAI network, using the same antenna phase center or using different positions for L1 and L2 signals gives maximum differences of 200 ps on the hardware delays of the separate codes P1 and P2; however, the final impact on the P3 combination is less than 10 ps.

Taxonomic and floristic novelties for Echeveria (Crassulaceae) in Central Michoacan, Mexico

PubMed Central

García-Ruiz, Ignacio; Valentín-Martínez, Dagoberto; Carrillo-Reyes, Pablo; Costea, Mihai

2016-01-01

Abstract A new species, Echeveria coruana, is described and illustrated from the malpaís near San Andrés Corú, Michoacan, Mexico. The species belongs to series Gibbiflorae and the new taxon was compared with Echeveria purhepecha and Echeveria patriotica, with whom it shares the closest morphological affinities. Additionally, Echeveria yalmanantlaensis an endangered species from Sierra of Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, State of Colima, was also discovered near San Andrés Corú and is reported for the first time from the State of Michoacan. The conservation status of both species was (re)evaluated according to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. PMID:28127240

Cyanosis and Stroke due to Functional Cor Triatriatum Dexter in a Neonate.

PubMed

León, Rachel L; Zaban, Nicholas B; Schamberger, Marcus S; Ho, Chang Y; Mietzsch, Ulrike

2018-01-01

Small remnants of the right valve of the sinus venosus are commonly found in adults, but the incidence and risk associated with these embryonic remnants in neonates are not well studied. The following report describes a cyanotic neonate with a large Eustachian valve remnant creating a functional cor triatriatum dexter who was initially diagnosed with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. The cyanosis in this infant improved over the first postnatal week with conservative management, but she suffered multifocal subcortical stroke, likely related to her intracardiac shunt. The clinical presentation and questions regarding long-term management of this rare diagnosis are explored. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The Development of Predictive Engineering Formulations for Diver Heating. Volume 2.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-01

0 DO 1132 Min14,25 C DROP VALUE & WEIGHT FROM SUM IF ’T’ VALUE <- 0.0 IF (EXP(M).LE.0. 0) GO TO 1132 TDMS-TDMS+(WGT(M-13)*EXP(M)) SWOT -SWGT+WGT (M- 13...1132 CONTINUE IF ( SWOT . EQ. 0. 0) GO TO 11321 TDMS-TDMS/SWGT 11321 P(I,1)-EXP(1) WRITE (LO, 1133) EXP(1-) 1133 FORMAT (’ EXPERIMENTAL TIME: ’,F8.2...I AND J ARE TEMPORARY VARIABLES USED 33 AS DO LOOP INDICIES AND COUNTERS. INTEGER COR1 BR COMMON /BODY/B(9,3),COR(9,2),WGT(12) TR0. 0 SWOT -O. 0 !NOTE

Taxonomic and floristic novelties for Echeveria (Crassulaceae) in Central Michoacan, Mexico.

PubMed

García-Ruiz, Ignacio; Valentín-Martínez, Dagoberto; Carrillo-Reyes, Pablo; Costea, Mihai

2016-01-01

A new species, Echeveria coruana , is described and illustrated from the malpaís near San Andrés Corú, Michoacan, Mexico. The species belongs to series Gibbiflorae and the new taxon was compared with Echeveria purhepecha and Echeveria patriotica , with whom it shares the closest morphological affinities. Additionally, Echeveria yalmanantlaensis an endangered species from Sierra of Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, State of Colima, was also discovered near San Andrés Corú and is reported for the first time from the State of Michoacan. The conservation status of both species was (re)evaluated according to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Smartphone ECG aids real time diagnosis of palpitations in the competitive college athlete.

PubMed

Peritz, David C; Howard, Austin; Ciocca, Mario; Chung, Eugene H

2015-01-01

Rapidly detecting dangerous arrhythmias in a symptomatic athlete continues to be an elusive goal. The use of handheld smartphone electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors could represent a helpful tool connecting the athletic trainer to the cardiologist. Six college athletes presented to their athletic trainers complaining of palpitations during exercise. A single lead ECG was performed using the AliveCor Heart Monitor and sent wirelessly to the Team Cardiologist who confirmed an absence of dangerous arrhythmia. AliveCor monitoring has the potential to enhance evaluation of symptomatic athletes by allowing trainers and team physicians to make diagnosis in real-time and facilitate faster return to play. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Aluminum Alloy 7050 Extrusions.

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-03-01

o .rf^ofTiin (^r^mvo^TfN co^vür^ oui^o < TJ co M t> ^t fH 0\\ cDincO’T’Tco iOr-<-4vO cuo^ fio oocr--r-r--,X) a)(Dr-r-r~vü cor-r^-’O cor...toa>ooo m vo * ff» o o mvoooffiA ro c*) ^ ^ ^j H ro rn fo ^ v ^ ^ to fi ro vo vo a» o o insoot fio in«s Da<o«o mtcopotoo...AFML/LLN, Dr. V. J. Russo Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433 AFML/LLM, Dr. H. A. Lipsitt Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433 FTD/PDRR, Maj. L. A

Space station group activities habitability module study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nixon, David

1986-01-01

This study explores and analyzes architectural design approaches for the interior of the Space Station Habitability Module (originally defined as Habitability Module 1 in Space Station Reference Configuration Decription, JSC-19989, August 1984). In the Research Phase, architectural program and habitability design guidelines are specified. In the Schematic Design Phase, a range of alternative concepts is described and illustrated with drawings, scale-model photographs and design analysis evaluations. Recommendations are presented on the internal architectural, configuration of the Space Station Habitability Module for such functions as the wardroom, galley, exercise facility, library and station control work station. The models show full design configurations for on-orbit performance.

The use of time-series data in the assessment of macrobenthic community change after the cessation of sewage-sludge disposal in Liverpool Bay (UK).

PubMed

Whomersley, P; Schratzberger, M; Huxham, M; Bates, H; Rees, H

2007-01-01

Sewage sludge was disposed of in Liverpool Bay for over 100 years. Annual amounts increased from 0.5 million tonnes per annum in 1900 to approximately 2 million tonnes per annum by 1995. Macrofauna and a suite of environmental variables were collected at a station adjacent to, and a reference station distant from, the disposal site over 13 years, spanning a pre- (1990-1998) and post- (1999-2003) cessation period. Univariate and multivariate analyses of the time-series data showed significant community differences between reference and disposal site stations and multivariate analyses revealed station-specific community development post-disposal. Temporal variability of communities collected at the disposal station post-cessation was higher than during years of disposal, when temporally stable dominance patterns of disturbance-tolerant species had established. Alterations of community structure post-disturbance reflected successional changes possibly driven by facilitation. Subtle faunistic changes at the Liverpool Bay disposal site indicate that the near-field effects of the disposal of sewage sludge were small and therefore could be considered environmentally acceptable.

Design and development of electric vehicle charging station equipped with RFID

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panatarani, C.; Murtaddo, D.; Maulana, D. W.; Irawan, S.; Joni, I. M.

2016-02-01

This paper reports the development of electric charging station from distributed renewable for electric vehicle (EV). This designed refer to the input voltage standard of IEC 61851, plugs features of IEC 62196 and standard communication of ISO 15118. The developed electric charging station used microcontroller ATMEGA8535 and RFID as controller and identifier of the EV users, respectively. The charging station successfully developed as desired features for electric vehicle from renewable energy resources grid with solar panel, wind power and batteries storage.

High order GPS base station support for Rhode Island

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-09-01

The University of Rhode Island (URI) upgraded its Global Positioning System (GPS) Base Station to provide round-the-clock Internet access to survey-grade (+/- 2 cm accuracy) reference files using a web-based data distribution system. In August 2000, ...

Performance analysis of PPP ambiguity resolution with UPD products estimated from different scales of reference station networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Siyao; Li, Bofeng; Li, Xingxing; Zang, Nan

2018-01-01

Integer ambiguity fixing with uncalibrated phase delay (UPD) products can significantly shorten the initialization time and improve the accuracy of precise point positioning (PPP). Since the tracking arcs of satellites and the behavior of atmospheric biases can be very different for the reference networks with different scales, the qualities of corresponding UPD products may be also various. The purpose of this paper is to comparatively investigate the influence of different scales of reference station networks on UPD estimation and user ambiguity resolution. Three reference station networks with global, wide-area and local scales are used to compute the UPD products and analyze their impact on the PPP-AR. The time-to-first-fix, the unfix rate and the incorrect fix rate of PPP-AR are analyzed. Moreover, in order to further shorten the convergence time for obtaining precise positioning, a modified partial ambiguity resolution (PAR) and corresponding validation strategy are presented. In this PAR method, the ambiguity subset is determined by removing the ambiguity one by one in the order of ascending elevations. Besides, for static positioning mode, a coordinate validation strategy is employed to enhance the reliability of the fixed coordinate. The experiment results show that UPD products computed by smaller station network are more accurate and lead to a better coordinate solution; the PAR method used in this paper can shorten the convergence time and the coordinate validation strategy can improve the availability of high precision positioning.

Comparison between core temperatures measured telemetrically using the CorTemp® ingestible temperature sensor and rectal temperature in healthy Labrador retrievers

PubMed Central

Osinchuk, Stephanie; Taylor, Susan M.; Shmon, Cindy L.; Pharr, John; Campbell, John

2014-01-01

This study evaluated the CorTemp® ingestible telemetric core body temperature sensor in dogs, to establish the relationship between rectal temperature and telemetrically measured core body temperature at rest and during exercise, and to examine the effect of sensor location in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract on measured core temperature. CorTemp® sensors were administered orally to fasted Labrador retriever dogs and radiographs were taken to document sensor location. Core and rectal temperatures were monitored throughout the day in 6 resting dogs and during a 10-minute strenuous retrieving exercise in 6 dogs. Time required for the sensor to leave the stomach (120 to 610 min) was variable. Measured core temperature was consistently higher than rectal temperature across all GI locations but temperature differences based on GI location were not significant (P = 0.5218). Resting dogs had a core temperature that was on average 0.4°C above their rectal temperature with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) between 1.2°C and −0.5°C. Core temperature in exercising dogs was on average 0.3°C higher than their concurrent rectal temperature, with LoA of +1.6°C and −1.1°C. PMID:25320380

Comparison between core temperatures measured telemetrically using the CorTemp® ingestible temperature sensor and rectal temperature in healthy Labrador retrievers.

PubMed

Osinchuk, Stephanie; Taylor, Susan M; Shmon, Cindy L; Pharr, John; Campbell, John

2014-10-01

This study evaluated the CorTemp(®) ingestible telemetric core body temperature sensor in dogs, to establish the relationship between rectal temperature and telemetrically measured core body temperature at rest and during exercise, and to examine the effect of sensor location in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract on measured core temperature. CorTemp(®) sensors were administered orally to fasted Labrador retriever dogs and radiographs were taken to document sensor location. Core and rectal temperatures were monitored throughout the day in 6 resting dogs and during a 10-minute strenuous retrieving exercise in 6 dogs. Time required for the sensor to leave the stomach (120 to 610 min) was variable. Measured core temperature was consistently higher than rectal temperature across all GI locations but temperature differences based on GI location were not significant (P = 0.5218). Resting dogs had a core temperature that was on average 0.4°C above their rectal temperature with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) between 1.2°C and -0.5°C. Core temperature in exercising dogs was on average 0.3°C higher than their concurrent rectal temperature, with LoA of +1.6°C and -1.1°C.

Disclosure control using partially synthetic data for large-scale health surveys, with applications to CanCORS.

PubMed

Loong, Bronwyn; Zaslavsky, Alan M; He, Yulei; Harrington, David P

2013-10-30

Statistical agencies have begun to partially synthesize public-use data for major surveys to protect the confidentiality of respondents' identities and sensitive attributes by replacing high disclosure risk and sensitive variables with multiple imputations. To date, there are few applications of synthetic data techniques to large-scale healthcare survey data. Here, we describe partial synthesis of survey data collected by the Cancer Care Outcomes Research and Surveillance (CanCORS) project, a comprehensive observational study of the experiences, treatments, and outcomes of patients with lung or colorectal cancer in the USA. We review inferential methods for partially synthetic data and discuss selection of high disclosure risk variables for synthesis, specification of imputation models, and identification disclosure risk assessment. We evaluate data utility by replicating published analyses and comparing results using original and synthetic data and discuss practical issues in preserving inferential conclusions. We found that important subgroup relationships must be included in the synthetic data imputation model, to preserve the data utility of the observed data for a given analysis procedure. We conclude that synthetic CanCORS data are suited best for preliminary data analyses purposes. These methods address the requirement to share data in clinical research without compromising confidentiality. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cold acclimation induces distinctive changes in the chromatin state and transcript levels of COR genes in Cannabis sativa varieties with contrasting cold acclimation capacities.

PubMed

Mayer, Boris F; Ali-Benali, Mohamed Ali; Demone, Jordan; Bertrand, Annick; Charron, Jean-Benoit

2015-11-01

Little is known about the capacity of Cannabis sativa to cold-acclimate and develop freezing tolerance. This study investigates the cold acclimation (CA) capacity of nine C. sativa varieties and the underlying genetic and epigenetic responses. The varieties were divided into three groups based on their contrasting CA capacities by comparing the survival of non-acclimated and cold-acclimated plants in whole-plant freeze tests. In response to the CA treatment, all varieties accumulated soluble sugars but only the varieties with superior capacity for CA could maintain higher levels throughout the treatment. In addition, the varieties that acclimated most efficiently accumulated higher transcript levels of cold-regulated (COR) genes and genes involved in de novo DNA methylation while displaying locus- and variety-specific changes in the levels of H3K9ac, H3K27me3 and methylcytosine (MeC) during CA. Furthermore, these hardy C. sativa varieties displayed significant increases in MeC levels at COR gene loci when deacclimated, suggesting a role for locus-specific DNA methylation in deacclimation. This study uncovers the molecular mechanisms underlying CA in C. sativa and reveals higher levels of complexity regarding how genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors intertwine. © 2014 Scandinavian Plant Physiology Society.

Atmospheric CO2 Alters Resistance of Arabidopsis to Pseudomonas syringae by Affecting Abscisic Acid Accumulation and Stomatal Responsiveness to Coronatine

PubMed Central

Zhou, Yeling; Vroegop-Vos, Irene; Schuurink, Robert C.; Pieterse, Corné M. J.; Van Wees, Saskia C. M.

2017-01-01

Atmospheric CO2 influences plant growth and stomatal aperture. Effects of high or low CO2 levels on plant disease resistance are less well understood. Here, resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana against the foliar pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst) was investigated at three different CO2 levels: high (800 ppm), ambient (450 ppm), and low (150 ppm). Under all conditions tested, infection by Pst resulted in stomatal closure within 1 h after inoculation. However, subsequent stomatal reopening at 4 h, triggered by the virulence factor coronatine (COR), occurred only at ambient and high CO2, but not at low CO2. Moreover, infection by Pst was reduced at low CO2 to the same extent as infection by mutant Pst cor-. Under all CO2 conditions, the ABA mutants aba2-1 and abi1-1 were as resistant to Pst as wild-type plants under low CO2, which contained less ABA. Moreover, stomatal reopening mediated by COR was dependent on ABA. Our results suggest that reduced ABA levels at low CO2 contribute to the observed enhanced resistance to Pst by deregulation of virulence responses. This implies that enhanced ABA levels at increasing CO2 levels may have a role in weakening plant defense. PMID:28559899

A novel cold-inducible zinc finger protein from soybean, SCOF-1, enhances cold tolerance in transgenic plants.

PubMed

Kim, J C; Lee, S H; Cheong, Y H; Yoo, C M; Lee, S I; Chun, H J; Yun, D J; Hong, J C; Lee, S Y; Lim, C O; Cho, M J

2001-02-01

Cold stress on plants induces changes in the transcription of cold response genes. A cDNA clone encoding C2H2-type zinc finger protein, SCOF-1, was isolated from soybean. The transcription of SCOF-1 is specifically induced by low temperature and abscisic acid (ABA) but not by dehydration or high salinity. Constitutive overexpression of SCOF-1 induced cold-regulated (COR) gene expression and enhanced cold tolerance of non-acclimated transgenic Arabidopsis and tobacco plants. SCOF-1 localized to the nucleus but did not bind directly to either C-repeat/dehydration (CRT/DRE) or ABA responsive element (ABRE), cis-acting DNA regulatory elements present in COR gene promoters. However, SCOF-1 greatly enhanced the DNA binding activity of SGBF-1, a soybean G-box binding bZIP transcription factor, to ABRE in vitro. SCOF-1 also interacted with SGBF-1 in a yeast two-hybrid system. The SGBF-1 transactivated the beta-glucuronidase reporter gene driven by the ABRE element in Arabidopsis leaf protoplasts. Furthermore, the SCOF-1 enhanced ABRE-dependent gene expression mediated by SGBF-1. These results suggest that SCOF-1 may function as a positive regulator of COR gene expression mediated by ABRE via protein-protein interaction, which in turn enhances cold tolerance of plants.

Low-pressure capnoperitoneum reduces stress responses during pediatric laparoscopic high ligation of indirect inguinal hernia sac: A randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Niu, Xiaoguang; Song, Xubin; Su, Aiping; Zhao, Shanshan; Li, Qinghao

2017-04-01

We aimed to evaluate the effect of different capnoperitoneum pressures on stress responses in pediatric laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. In this prospective randomized controlled study, 68 children with indirect inguinal hernia who underwent high ligation of hernia sac were randomly divided into 3 groups: high-pressure group (12 mm Hg, HP group, n = 26); low-pressure group (8 mm Hg, LP group, n = 20); open operation group (OP group, n = 22). Heart rate (HR), blood pressure, and end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2) were recorded, as well as the levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol (COR) were measured by ELISAs before operation, during operation, and after operation, respectively. After establishing capnoperitoneum, HR, blood pressure, and PetCO2 were significantly increased in the HP group compared with the OP and LP groups (P < 0.05). Comparing the intraoperatively measured ACTH and COR concentrations of the HP group to the LP group, we noted higher values in the first (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the postoperative concentrations of ACTH and COR among the HP, LP, and OP groups. Laparoscopic surgery under LP capnoperitoneum or open operation may reduce stress responses and are superior to HP capnoperitoneum.

Hexanoic acid is a resistance inducer that protects tomato plants against Pseudomonas syringae by priming the jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways.

PubMed

Scalschi, Loredana; Vicedo, Begonya; Camañes, Gemma; Fernandez-Crespo, Emma; Lapeña, Leonor; González-Bosch, Carmen; García-Agustín, Pilar

2013-05-01

Hexanoic acid-induced resistance (Hx-IR) is effective against several pathogens in tomato plants. Our study of the mechanisms implicated in Hx-IR against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 suggests that hexanoic acid (Hx) treatment counteracts the negative effect of coronatine (COR) and jasmonyl-isoleucine (JA-Ile) on the salicylic acid (SA) pathway. In Hx-treated plants, an increase in the expression of jasmonic acid carboxyl methyltransferase (JMT) and the SA marker genes PR1 and PR5 indicates a boost in this signalling pathway at the expense of a decrease in JA-Ile. Moreover, Hx treatment potentiates 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid accumulation, which suggests that this molecule might play a role per se in Hx-IR. These results support a positive relationship between the SA and JA pathways in Hx-primed plants. Furthermore, one of the mechanisms of virulence mediated by COR is stomatal re-opening on infection with P. syringae. In this work, we observed that Hx seems to inhibit stomatal opening in planta in the presence of COR, which suggests that, on infection in tomato, this treatment suppresses effector action to prevent bacterial entry into the mesophyll. © 2012 BSPP AND BLACKWELL PUBLISHING LTD.

A Modernized National Spatial Reference System in 2022: Focus on the Caribbean Terrestrial Reference Frame

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roman, D. R.

2017-12-01

In 2022, the National Geodetic Survey will replace all three NAD 83 reference frames the four new terrestrial reference frames. Each frame will be named after a tectonic plate (North American, Pacific, Caribbean and Mariana) and each will be related to the IGS frame through three Euler Pole parameters (EPPs). This talk will focus on practical application in the Caribbean region. A working group is being re-established for development of the North American region and will likely also result in analysis of the Pacific region as well. Both of these regions are adequately covered with existing CORS sites to model the EPPs. The Mariana region currently lacks sufficient coverage, but a separate project is underway to collect additional information to help in defining EPPs for that region at a later date. The Caribbean region has existing robust coverage through UNAVCO's COCONet and other data sets, but these require further analysis. This discussion will focus on practical examination of Caribbean sites to establish candidates for determining the Caribbean frame EPPs as well as an examination of any remaining velocities that might inform a model of the remaining velocities within that frame (Intra-Frame Velocity Model). NGS has a vested interest in defining such a model to meet obligations to U.S. citizens in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Beyond this, NGS aims to collaborate with other countries in the region through efforts with SIRGAS and UN-GGIM-Americas for a more acceptable regional model to serve everyone's needs.

Transgenic Arabidopsis flowers overexpressing acyl-CoA-binding protein ACBP6 are freezing tolerant.

PubMed

Liao, Pan; Chen, Qin-Fang; Chye, Mee-Len

2014-06-01

Low temperature stress adversely affects plant growth. It has been shown that the overexpression of ACYL-COENZYME A-BINDING PROTEIN6 (ACBP6) resulted in enhanced freezing tolerance in seedlings and rosettes accompanied by a decrease in phosphatidylcholine (PC), an increase in phosphatidic acid (PA) and an up-regulation of PHOSPHOLIPASE Dδ(PLDδ) in the absence of COLD-RESPONSIVE (COR)-related gene induction. Unlike rosettes, ACBP6-overexpressor (OE) flowers showed elevations in PC and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) accompanied by a decline in PA. The increase in PC species corresponded to a decline in specific PAs. To better understand such differences, the expression of PC-, MGDG-, proline-, ABA- and COR-related genes, and their transcription factors [C-repeat binding factors (CBFs), INDUCER OF CBF EXPRESSION1 (ICE1) and MYB15] was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). ACBP6-conferred freezing-tolerant flowers showed induction of COR-related genes, CBF genes and ICE1, PC-related genes (PLDδ, CK, CK-LIKE1, CK-LIKE2, CCT1, CCT2, LPCAT1, PLA2α, PAT-PLA-IIβ, PAT-PLA-IIIα, PAT-PLA-IIIδ and PLDζ2), MGDG-related genes (MGD genes and SFR2) and ABA-responsive genes. In contrast, ACBP6-conferred freezing-tolerant rosettes were down-regulated in COR-related genes, CBF1, PC-related genes (PEAMT1, PEAMT2, PEAMT3, CK1, CCT1, CCT2, PLA2α, PAT-PLA-IIIδ and PLDζ2), MGDG-related genes (MGD2, MGD3 and SFR2) and some ABA-responsive genes including KIN1 and KIN2. These results suggest that the mechanism in ACBP6-conferred freezing tolerance varies in different organs. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

NASA Astrophysics Funds Strategic Technology Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seery, Bernard D.; Ganel, Opher; Pham, Bruce

2016-01-01

The COR and PCOS Program Offices (POs) reside at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), serving as the NASA Astrophysics Division's implementation arm for matters relating to the two programs. One aspect of the PO's activities is managing the COR and PCOS Strategic Astrophysics Technology (SAT) program, helping mature technologies to enable and enhance future astrophysics missions. For example, the SAT program is expected to fund key technology developments needed to close gaps identified by Science and Technology Definition Teams (STDTs) planned to study several large mission concept studies in preparation for the 2020 Decadal Survey.The POs are guided by the National Research Council's "New Worlds, New Horizons in Astronomy and Astrophysics" Decadal Survey report, NASA's Astrophysics Implementation Plan, and the visionary Astrophysics Roadmap, "Enduring Quests, Daring Visions." Strategic goals include dark energy, gravitational waves, and X-ray observatories. Future missions pursuing these goals include, e.g., US participation in ESA's Euclid, Athena, and L3 missions; Inflation probe; and a large UV/Optical/IR (LUVOIR) telescope.To date, 65 COR and 71 PCOS SAT proposals have been received, of which 15 COR and 22 PCOS projects were funded. Notable successes include maturation of a new far-IR detector, later adopted by the SOFIA HAWC instrument; maturation of the H4RG near-IR detector, adopted by WFIRST; development of an antenna-coupled transition-edge superconducting bolometer, a technology deployed by BICEP2/BICEP3/Keck to measure polarization in the CMB signal; advanced UV reflective coatings implemented on the optics of GOLD and ICON, two heliophysics Explorers; and finally, the REXIS instrument on OSIRIS-REx is incorporating CCDs with directly deposited optical blocking filters developed by another SAT-funded project.We discuss our technology development process, with community input and strategic prioritization informing calls for SAT proposals and guiding investment decisions. We also present results of this year's technology gap prioritization and showcase our current portfolio of technology development projects.

Clues to Coral Reef Ecosystem Health: Spectral Analysis Coupled with Radiative Transfer Modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guild, L.; Ganapol, B.; Kramer, P.; Armstrong, R.; Gleason, A.; Torres, J.; Johnson, L.; Garfield, N.

2003-12-01

Coral reefs are among the world's most productive and biologically rich ecosystems and are some of the oldest ecosystems on Earth. Coralline structures protect coastlines from storms, maintain high diversity of marine life, and provide nurseries for marine species. Coral reefs play a role in carbon cycling through high rates of organic carbon metabolism and calcification. Coral reefs provide fisheries habitat that are the sole protein source for humans on remote islands. Reefs respond immediately to environmental change and therefore are considered "canaries" of the oceans. However, the world's reefs are in peril: they have shrunk 10-50% from their historical extent due to climate change and anthropogenic activity. An important contribution to coral reef research is improved spectral distinction of reef species' health where anthropogenic activity and climate change impacts are high. Relatively little is known concerning the spectral properties of coral or how coral structures reflect and transmit light. New insights into optical processes of corals under stressed conditions can lead to improved interpretation of airborne and satellite data and forecasting of immediate or long-term impacts of events such as bleaching and disease in coral. We are investigating the spatial and spectral resolution required to detect remotely changes in reef health by coupling spectral analysis of in situ spectra and airborne spectral data with a new radiative transfer model called CorMOD2. Challenges include light attenuation by the water column, atmospheric scattering, and scattering caused by the coral themselves that confound the spectral signal. In CorMOD2, input coral reflectance measurements produce modeled absorption through an inversion at each visible wavelength. The first model development phase of CorMOD2 imposes a scattering baseline that is constant regardless of coral condition, and further specifies that coral is optically thick. Evolution of CorMOD2 is towards a coral-specific radiative transfer model that includes coral biochemical concentrations, specific absorptivities of coral components, and transmission measurements from coral surfaces.

47 CFR 73.602 - Cross reference to rules in other parts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Cross reference to rules in other parts. 73.602 Section 73.602 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) BROADCAST RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES Television Broadcast Stations § 73.602 Cross reference to rules in other parts...

Sensitivity of grass and alfalfa reference evapotranspiration to weather station sensor accuracy

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the relative effects of measurement errors in climate data input parameters on the accuracy of calculated reference crop evapotranspiration (ET) using the ASCE-EWRI Standardized Reference ET Equation. Data for the period of 1991 to 2008 from an autom...

Improved PPP Ambiguity Resolution Considering the Stochastic Characteristics of Atmospheric Corrections from Regional Networks

PubMed Central

Li, Yihe; Li, Bofeng; Gao, Yang

2015-01-01

With the increased availability of regional reference networks, Precise Point Positioning (PPP) can achieve fast ambiguity resolution (AR) and precise positioning by assimilating the satellite fractional cycle biases (FCBs) and atmospheric corrections derived from these networks. In such processing, the atmospheric corrections are usually treated as deterministic quantities. This is however unrealistic since the estimated atmospheric corrections obtained from the network data are random and furthermore the interpolated corrections diverge from the realistic corrections. This paper is dedicated to the stochastic modelling of atmospheric corrections and analyzing their effects on the PPP AR efficiency. The random errors of the interpolated corrections are processed as two components: one is from the random errors of estimated corrections at reference stations, while the other arises from the atmospheric delay discrepancies between reference stations and users. The interpolated atmospheric corrections are then applied by users as pseudo-observations with the estimated stochastic model. Two data sets are processed to assess the performance of interpolated corrections with the estimated stochastic models. The results show that when the stochastic characteristics of interpolated corrections are properly taken into account, the successful fix rate reaches 93.3% within 5 min for a medium inter-station distance network and 80.6% within 10 min for a long inter-station distance network. PMID:26633400

Improved PPP Ambiguity Resolution Considering the Stochastic Characteristics of Atmospheric Corrections from Regional Networks.

PubMed

Li, Yihe; Li, Bofeng; Gao, Yang

2015-11-30

With the increased availability of regional reference networks, Precise Point Positioning (PPP) can achieve fast ambiguity resolution (AR) and precise positioning by assimilating the satellite fractional cycle biases (FCBs) and atmospheric corrections derived from these networks. In such processing, the atmospheric corrections are usually treated as deterministic quantities. This is however unrealistic since the estimated atmospheric corrections obtained from the network data are random and furthermore the interpolated corrections diverge from the realistic corrections. This paper is dedicated to the stochastic modelling of atmospheric corrections and analyzing their effects on the PPP AR efficiency. The random errors of the interpolated corrections are processed as two components: one is from the random errors of estimated corrections at reference stations, while the other arises from the atmospheric delay discrepancies between reference stations and users. The interpolated atmospheric corrections are then applied by users as pseudo-observations with the estimated stochastic model. Two data sets are processed to assess the performance of interpolated corrections with the estimated stochastic models. The results show that when the stochastic characteristics of interpolated corrections are properly taken into account, the successful fix rate reaches 93.3% within 5 min for a medium inter-station distance network and 80.6% within 10 min for a long inter-station distance network.

Indoor transformer stations and ELF magnetic field exposure: use of transformer structural characteristics to improve exposure assessment.

PubMed

Okokon, Enembe Oku; Roivainen, Päivi; Kheifets, Leeka; Mezei, Gabor; Juutilainen, Jukka

2014-01-01

Previous studies have shown that populations of multiapartment buildings with indoor transformer stations may serve as a basis for improved epidemiological studies on the relationship between childhood leukaemia and extremely-low-frequency (ELF) magnetic fields (MFs). This study investigated whether classification based on structural characteristics of the transformer stations would improve ELF MF exposure assessment. The data included MF measurements in apartments directly above transformer stations ("exposed" apartments) in 30 buildings in Finland, and reference apartments in the same buildings. Transformer structural characteristics (type and location of low-voltage conductors) were used to classify exposed apartments into high-exposure (HE) and intermediate-exposure (IE) categories. An exposure gradient was observed: both the time-average MF and time above a threshold (0.4 μT) were highest in the HE apartments and lowest in the reference apartments, showing a statistically significant trend. The differences between HE and IE apartments, however, were not statistically significant. A simulation exercise showed that the three-category classification did not perform better than a two-category classification (exposed and reference apartments) in detecting the existence of an increased risk. However, data on the structural characteristics of transformers is potentially useful for evaluating exposure-response relationship.

GNSS strain rate patterns and their application to investigate geodynamical credibility of the GNSS velocities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araszkiewicz, Andrzej; Figurski, Mariusz

2015-04-01

The potential that lies in the use of GNSS measurements for crustal deformation studies have already noticed in the beginning of the first of such a system (GPS). Today thanks to the development of satellite positioning techniques it is possible to detect displacement on the Earth surface with an accuracy less than 1 cm. With long-term observations we can determine the velocities even more accurately. Growing demand in the last years for GNSS applications, both for scientific and civil use, meant that new networks of the reference stations were created. Such a dense GNSS networks allow to conduct research in the field of crust deformation at a higher spatial resolution than before. In Europe most of the research focuses on Mediterranean regions, where we can monitor events resulting from the tectonic plates collision. But even in Central Europe we can see effect of Africa push. In our research we focused on Polish territory, where in the past 5 years a nearly 300 reference stations were established. With minimal movements that have been observed in Poland, a key issue in this type of research is to determine the geodynamic reliability of the estimated stations velocities. While the long-term observations enable us to determine the very accurate velocities, it hard to indicate how reliably they reflect actual tectonic movements is. In this paper we proposed a method for testing the reliability of stations velocities based on the strain rate field analysis. The method is based on the analysis of the distribution of the rate of deformation tensor components obtained for triangular elements built on the basis of assessed station. The paper presents the results of numerical simulations and initial use of the method for the Polish network of reference stations: ASG-EUPOS

Consistency mapping of 16 lymph node stations in gastric cancer by CT-based vessel-guided delineation of 255 patients.

PubMed

Xu, Shuhang; Feng, Lingling; Chen, Yongming; Sun, Ying; Lu, Yao; Huang, Shaomin; Fu, Yang; Zheng, Rongqin; Zhang, Yujing; Zhang, Rong

2017-06-20

In order to refine the location and metastasis-risk density of 16 lymph node stations of gastric cancer for neoadjuvant radiotherapy, we retrospectively reviewed the initial images and pathological reports of 255 gastric cancer patients with lymphatic metastasis. Metastatic lymph nodes identified in the initial computed tomography images were investigated by two radiologists with gastrointestinal specialty. A circle with a diameter of 5 mm was used to identify the central position of each metastatic lymph node, defined as the LNc (the central position of the lymph node). The LNc was drawn at the equivalent location on the reference images of a standard patient based on the relative distances to the same reference vessels and the gastric wall using a Monaco® version 5.0 workstation. The image manipulation software Medi-capture was programmed for image analysis to produce a contour and density atlas of 16 lymph node stations. Based on a total of 2846 LNcs contoured (31-599 per lymph node station), we created a density distribution map of 16 lymph node drainage stations of the stomach on computed tomography images, showing the detailed radiographic delineation of each lymph node station as well as high-risk areas for lymph node metastasis. Our mapping can serve as a template for the delineation of gastric lymph node stations when defining clinical target volume in pre-operative radiotherapy for gastric cancer.

Adaptive control applied to Space Station attitude control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lam, Quang M.; Chipman, Richard; Hu, Tsay-Hsin G.; Holmes, Eric B.; Sunkel, John

1992-01-01

This paper presents an adaptive control approach to enhance the performance of current attitude control system used by the Space Station Freedom. The proposed control law was developed based on the direct adaptive control or model reference adaptive control scheme. Performance comparisons, subject to inertia variation, of the adaptive controller and the fixed-gain linear quadratic regulator currently implemented for the Space Station are conducted. Both the fixed-gain and the adaptive gain controllers are able to maintain the Station stability for inertia variations of up to 35 percent. However, when a 50 percent inertia variation is applied to the Station, only the adaptive controller is able to maintain the Station attitude.

Geoscience Australia Continuous Global Positioning System (CGPS) Station Field Campaign Report

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

Ruddick, R.; Twilley, B.

2016-03-01

This station formed part of the Australian Regional GPS Network (ARGN) and South Pacific Regional GPS Network (SPRGN), which is a network of continuous GPS stations operating within Australia and its Territories (including Antarctica) and the Pacific. These networks support a number of different science applications including maintenance of the Geospatial Reference Frame, both national and international, continental and tectonic plate motions, sea level rise, and global warming.

Co-location satellite GPS and SLR geodetic techniques at the Felix Aguilar Astronomical Observatory of San Juan, Argentina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podestá, R.; Pacheco, A. M.; Alvis Rojas, H.; Quinteros, J.; Podestá, F.; Albornoz, E.; Navarro, A.; Luna, M.

2018-01-01

This work shows the strategy followed for the co-location of the Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) ILRS 7406 telescope and the antenna of the permanent Global Positioning System (GPS) station, located at the Félix Aguilar Astronomical Observatory (OAFA) in San Juan, Argentina. The accomplishment of the co-location consisted in the design, construction, measurement, adjustment and compensation of a geodesic net between the stations SLR and GPS, securing support points solidly built in the soil. The co-location allows the coordinates of the station to be obtained by combining the data of both SLR and GPS techniques, achieving a greater degree of accuracy than individually. The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) considers the co-located stations as the most valuable and important points for the maintenance of terrestrial reference systems and their connection with the celestial ones. The 3 mm precision required by the IERS has been successfully achieved.

Benefit of Complete State Monitoring For GPS Realtime Applications With Geo++ Gnsmart

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wübbena, G.; Schmitz, M.; Bagge, A.

Today, the demand for precise positioning at the cm-level in realtime is worldwide growing. An indication for this is the number of operational RTK network installa- tions, which use permanent reference station networks to derive corrections for dis- tance dependent GPS errors and to supply corrections to RTK users in realtime. Gen- erally, the inter-station distances in RTK networks are selected at several tens of km in range and operational installations cover areas of up to 50000 km x km. However, the separation of the permanent reference stations can be increased to sev- eral hundred km, while a correct modeling of all error components is applied. Such networks can be termed as sparse RTK networks, which cover larger areas with a reduced number of stations. The undifferenced GPS observable is best suited for this task estimating the complete state of a permanent GPS network in a dynamic recursive Kalman filter. A rigorous adjustment of all simultaneous reference station data is re- quired. The sparse network design essentially supports the state estimation through its large spatial extension. The benefit of the approach and its state modeling of all GPS error components is a successful ambiguity resolution in realtime over long distances. The above concepts are implemented in the operational GNSMART (GNSS State Monitoring and Representation Technique) software of Geo++. It performs a state monitoring of all error components at the mm-level, because for RTK networks this accuracy is required to sufficiently represent the distance dependent errors for kine- matic applications. One key issue of the modeling is the estimation of clocks and hard- ware delays in the undifferenced approach. This pre-requisite subsequently allows for the precise separation and modeling of all other error components. Generally most of the estimated parameters are considered as nuisance parameters with respect to pure positioning tasks. As the complete state vector of GPS errors is available in a GPS realtime network, additional information besides position can be derived e.g. regional precise satellite clocks, orbits, total ionospheric electron content, tropospheric water vapor distribution, and also dynamic reference station movements. The models of GNSMART are designed to work with regional, continental or even global data. Results from GNSMART realtime networks with inter-station distances of several hundred km are presented to demonstrate the benefits of the operational implemented concepts.

The EarthScope USArray Observatories: Status and Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woodward, R.; Busby, R.; Alvarez, M.; Schultz, A.; Simpson, D.

2009-05-01

The EarthScope USArray program includes three seismic and two magnetotelluric components. The USArray seismic components consist of the Transportable Array (TA), the Flexible Array (FA), and the Reference Network. The TA component of USArray has now occupied over 700 sites in the western United States, from the Pacific coast through the Rocky Mountains. The three component broadband TA stations are deployed in a grid-like arrangement, with 70 km separation between stations. At any given time there are approximately 400 station sites, occupying a ~2000 km by 800 km "footprint." Each station is operated for two years. The FA component of USArray provides a pool of instruments, ranging from high frequency geophones to three- component broadband sensors, and these instruments are typically deployed for focused geological targets for time periods ranging from days to years. Finally, the Reference Network provides a fixed, permanent reference frame for the TA and FA, with approximately 100 broadband stations deployed across the contiguous US, at roughly 300 km spacing. The magnetotelluric (MT) component of USArray consists of both a fixed reference network as well as a transportable array of instruments that are deployed campaign style, using a 70 km by 70 km grid. The geographical extent of USArray allows unprecedented observation of geophysical targets. Instruments have been deployed across the west and mid-west of the US, with TA stations presently moving into the states spanning a north-south line from North Dakota to Texas. MT observations in Cascadia have been augmented by corresponding observations in Canada. Similarly, as the seismic TA moves east, plans are being developed to collaborate on TA seismic observations on both sides of the US-Canada border in the region of the Great Lakes. We will present the current status of USArray activities and progress to-date, with a special emphasis on standardized data products that are produced from USArray data, including phase picks, wave-field animations, observations of the ambient noise field, and MT transfer functions. We will also provide an overview of USArray deployment plans, to facilitate collaborative experiments and investigations, and discuss opportunities for the seismological education and research communities to participate in and leverage the FA and TA efforts.

Integrated GNSS Attitude Determination and Positioning for Direct Geo-Referencing

PubMed Central

Nadarajah, Nandakumaran; Paffenholz, Jens-André; Teunissen, Peter J. G.

2014-01-01

Direct geo-referencing is an efficient methodology for the fast acquisition of 3D spatial data. It requires the fusion of spatial data acquisition sensors with navigation sensors, such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers. In this contribution, we consider an integrated GNSS navigation system to provide estimates of the position and attitude (orientation) of a 3D laser scanner. The proposed multi-sensor system (MSS) consists of multiple GNSS antennas rigidly mounted on the frame of a rotating laser scanner and a reference GNSS station with known coordinates. Precise GNSS navigation requires the resolution of the carrier phase ambiguities. The proposed method uses the multivariate constrained integer least-squares (MC-LAMBDA) method for the estimation of rotating frame ambiguities and attitude angles. MC-LAMBDA makes use of the known antenna geometry to strengthen the underlying attitude model and, hence, to enhance the reliability of rotating frame ambiguity resolution and attitude determination. The reliable estimation of rotating frame ambiguities is consequently utilized to enhance the relative positioning of the rotating frame with respect to the reference station. This integrated (array-aided) method improves ambiguity resolution, as well as positioning accuracy between the rotating frame and the reference station. Numerical analyses of GNSS data from a real-data campaign confirm the improved performance of the proposed method over the existing method. In particular, the integrated method yields reliable ambiguity resolution and reduces position standard deviation by a factor of about 0.8, matching the theoretical gain of 3/4 for two antennas on the rotating frame and a single antenna at the reference station. PMID:25036330

KALREF—A Kalman filter and time series approach to the International Terrestrial Reference Frame realization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xiaoping; Abbondanza, Claudio; Altamimi, Zuheir; Chin, T. Mike; Collilieux, Xavier; Gross, Richard S.; Heflin, Michael B.; Jiang, Yan; Parker, Jay W.

2015-05-01

The current International Terrestrial Reference Frame is based on a piecewise linear site motion model and realized by reference epoch coordinates and velocities for a global set of stations. Although linear motions due to tectonic plates and glacial isostatic adjustment dominate geodetic signals, at today's millimeter precisions, nonlinear motions due to earthquakes, volcanic activities, ice mass losses, sea level rise, hydrological changes, and other processes become significant. Monitoring these (sometimes rapid) changes desires consistent and precise realization of the terrestrial reference frame (TRF) quasi-instantaneously. Here, we use a Kalman filter and smoother approach to combine time series from four space geodetic techniques to realize an experimental TRF through weekly time series of geocentric coordinates. In addition to secular, periodic, and stochastic components for station coordinates, the Kalman filter state variables also include daily Earth orientation parameters and transformation parameters from input data frames to the combined TRF. Local tie measurements among colocated stations are used at their known or nominal epochs of observation, with comotion constraints applied to almost all colocated stations. The filter/smoother approach unifies different geodetic time series in a single geocentric frame. Fragmented and multitechnique tracking records at colocation sites are bridged together to form longer and coherent motion time series. While the time series approach to TRF reflects the reality of a changing Earth more closely than the linear approximation model, the filter/smoother is computationally powerful and flexible to facilitate incorporation of other data types and more advanced characterization of stochastic behavior of geodetic time series.

Integrated GNSS attitude determination and positioning for direct geo-referencing.

PubMed

Nadarajah, Nandakumaran; Paffenholz, Jens-André; Teunissen, Peter J G

2014-07-17

Direct geo-referencing is an efficient methodology for the fast acquisition of 3D spatial data. It requires the fusion of spatial data acquisition sensors with navigation sensors, such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers. In this contribution, we consider an integrated GNSS navigation system to provide estimates of the position and attitude (orientation) of a 3D laser scanner. The proposed multi-sensor system (MSS) consists of multiple GNSS antennas rigidly mounted on the frame of a rotating laser scanner and a reference GNSS station with known coordinates. Precise GNSS navigation requires the resolution of the carrier phase ambiguities. The proposed method uses the multivariate constrained integer least-squares (MC-LAMBDA) method for the estimation of rotating frame ambiguities and attitude angles. MC-LAMBDA makes use of the known antenna geometry to strengthen the underlying attitude model and, hence, to enhance the reliability of rotating frame ambiguity resolution and attitude determination. The reliable estimation of rotating frame ambiguities is consequently utilized to enhance the relative positioning of the rotating frame with respect to the reference station. This integrated (array-aided) method improves ambiguity resolution, as well as positioning accuracy between the rotating frame and the reference station. Numerical analyses of GNSS data from a real-data campaign confirm the improved performance of the proposed method over the existing method. In particular, the integrated method yields reliable ambiguity resolution and reduces position standard deviation by a factor of about 0:8, matching the theoretical gain of √ 3/4 for two antennas on the rotating frame and a single antenna at the reference station.

Operation Greenhouse. Scientific Director's report of atomic-weapon tests at Eniwetok, 1951. Annex 1. 11. Timing and firing and fiducial markers

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

Grier, H.E.

1985-09-01

An automatic remote-control system armed and fired the bomb and sent out a sequence of time signals to experimental equipment on the atoll. A central station at Parry Island sent signals via submarine cables to a timer station on a shot island. The timer station controlled signals to the zero station and to experiments on the island, and through auxiliary stations, it also controlled signal distribution on adjacent islands. Light-sensitive triggering units for apparatus and for accurate standard zero-time reference were provided in the form of Blue Boxes, or fiducial markers.

MSFC Space Station Program Commonly Used Acronyms and Abbreviations Listing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gates, Thomas G.

1988-01-01

The Marshall Space Flight Center maintains an active history program to assure that the foundation of the Center's history is captured and preserved for current and future generations. As part of that overall effort, the Center began a project in 1987 to capture historical information and documentation on the Marshall Center's roles regarding Space Shuttle and Space Station. This document is MSFC Space Station Program Commonly Used Acronyms and Abbreviations Listing. It contains acronyms and abbreviations used in Space Station documentation and in the Historian Annotated Bibliography of Space Station Program. The information may be used by the researcher as a reference tool.

Implications of Privacy Needs and Interpersonal Distancing Mechanisms for Space Station Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, A. A.; Sommer, R.; Struthers, N.; Hoyt, K.

1986-01-01

The literature on privacy needs, personal space, interpersonal distancing, and crowding is reveiwed with special reference to spaceflight and spaceflight analogous conditions. A quantitative model is proposed for understanding privacy, interpersonal distancing, and performance. The implications for space station design is described.

78 FR 16825 - Approval of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Navajo Nation; Regional Haze Requirements for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-19

... Quality Implementation Plans; Navajo Nation; Regional Haze Requirements for Navajo Generating Station... source-specific federal implementation plan (FIP) requiring the Navajo Generating Station (NGS), located... . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document, ``we'', ``us'', and ``our'' refer to EPA. Table of Contents...

77 FR 18271 - Terrestrial Environmental Studies for Nuclear Power Stations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-27

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION [NRC-2011-0182] Terrestrial Environmental Studies for Nuclear Power... Environmental Studies for Nuclear Power Stations.'' This guide provides technical guidance that the NRC staff... nuclear power reactors. ADDRESSES: Please refer to Docket ID NRC-2011-0182 when contacting the NRC about...

47 CFR 80.1117 - Procedure for receipt and acknowledgement of distress alerts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the National... given by the coast earth station receiving the distress alert by retransmitting the ship station... distress alerts. 80.1117 Section 80.1117 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED...

47 CFR 80.1117 - Procedure for receipt and acknowledgement of distress alerts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Communications Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC (Reference Information Center) or at the National... given by the coast earth station receiving the distress alert by retransmitting the ship station... distress alerts. 80.1117 Section 80.1117 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED...

Multi-geodetic characterization of the seasonal signal at the CERGA geodetic reference station, France

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mémin, Anthony; Viswanathan, Vishnu; Fienga, Agnes; Santamarìa-Gómez, Alvaro; Boy, Jean-Paul; Cavalié, Olivier; Deleflie, Florent; Exertier, Pierre; Bernard, Jean-Daniel; Hinderer, Jacques

2017-04-01

Crustal deformations due to surface-mass loading account for a significant part of the variability in geodetic time series. A perfect understanding of the loading signal observed by geodetic techniques should help in improving terrestrial reference frame (TRF) realizations. Yet, discrepancies between crustal motion estimates from models of surface-mass loading and observations are still too large so that no model is currently recommended by the IERS for reducing the observations. We investigate the discrepancy observed in the seasonal variations of the position at the CERGA station, South of France. We characterize the seasonal motions of the reference geodetic station CERGA from GNSS, SLR, LLR and InSAR. We investigate the consistency between the station motions deduced from these geodetic techniques and compare the observed station motion with that estimated using models of surface-mass change. In that regard, we compute atmospheric loading effects using surface pressure fields from ECMWF, assuming an ocean response according to the classical inverted barometer (IB) assumption, considered to be valid for periods typically exceeding a week. We also used general circulation ocean models (ECCO and GLORYS) forced by wind, heat and fresh water fluxes. The continental water storage is described using GLDAS/Noah and MERRA-land models. Using the surface-mass models, we estimate that the seasonal signal due to loading deformation at the CERGA station is about 8-9, 1-2 and 1-2 mm peak-to-peak in Up, North and East component, respectively. There is a very good correlation between GPS observations and non-tidal loading predicted deformation due to atmosphere, ocean and hydrology which is the main driver of seasonal signal at CERGA. Despite large error bars, LLR observations agree reasonably well with GPS and non-tidal loading predictions in Up component. Local deformation as observed by InSAR is very well correlated with GPS observations corrected for non-tidal loading. Finally, we estimate local mass changes using the absolute gravity measurement campaigns available at the station and the global models of surface-mass change. We compute the induced station motion that we compare with the local deformation observed by InSAR and GPS.

Site Effects in the City of Port au Prince (Haiti) Inferred From 2010 Earthquake Aftershocks Recordings.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

ST Fleur, S.; Courboulex, F.; Bertrand, E.; Deschamps, A.; Mercier De Lepinay, B. F.; Boisson, D.; Prepetit, C.; Hough, S. E.

2014-12-01

The Haitian earthquake of 12 January 2010 (Mw=7) caused an unprecedented disaster in Port-au-Prince as well as in smaller cities close to the epicenter. The extent of damage appears to be initially attributed to the proximity of the earthquake in Port-au-Prince, the extreme vulnerability of many structures, and a high population density. However, the damage distribution for this earthquake suggests a general correlation of damage with small-scale topographical features and local geological structure. The main objective of this work is to investigate site effects in the city of Port-au-Prince. It is also to better define the response of different sites to earthquakes and establish transfer functions between each site and a particular site defined as a reference site. Specific soil columns is determined in the vicinity of each station in order to carry out 1D simulations of soil response at these sites. About 90 earthquakes (2

Estimation of satellite position, clock and phase bias corrections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henkel, Patrick; Psychas, Dimitrios; Günther, Christoph; Hugentobler, Urs

2018-05-01

Precise point positioning with integer ambiguity resolution requires precise knowledge of satellite position, clock and phase bias corrections. In this paper, a method for the estimation of these parameters with a global network of reference stations is presented. The method processes uncombined and undifferenced measurements of an arbitrary number of frequencies such that the obtained satellite position, clock and bias corrections can be used for any type of differenced and/or combined measurements. We perform a clustering of reference stations. The clustering enables a common satellite visibility within each cluster and an efficient fixing of the double difference ambiguities within each cluster. Additionally, the double difference ambiguities between the reference stations of different clusters are fixed. We use an integer decorrelation for ambiguity fixing in dense global networks. The performance of the proposed method is analysed with both simulated Galileo measurements on E1 and E5a and real GPS measurements of the IGS network. We defined 16 clusters and obtained satellite position, clock and phase bias corrections with a precision of better than 2 cm.

A bill to redesignate the railroad station located at 2955 Market Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, commonly known as "30th Street Station", as the "William H. Gray 30th Street Station".

THOMAS, 113th Congress

Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA

2014-07-10

Senate - 07/10/2014 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. (All Actions) Notes: For further action, see H.R.4838, which became Public Law 113-158 on 8/8/2014. Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

Assessing the quality of GEOID12B model through field surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elaksher, Ahmed; Kamtchang, Franck; Wegmann, Christian; Guerrero, Adalberto

2018-01-01

Elevation differences have been determined through conventional ground surveying techniques for over a century. Since the mid-80s GPS, GLONASS and other satellite systems have modernized the means by which elevation differences are observed. In this article, we assessed the quality of GEIOD12B through long-occupation GNSS static surveys. A set of NGS benchmarks was occupied for at least one hour using dual-frequency GNSS receivers. Collected measurements were processed using a single CORS station at most 24 kilometers from the benchmarks. Geoid undulation values were driven by subtracting measured ellipsoidal heights from the orthometric heights posted on the NGS website. To assess the quality of GEOID12B, we compared our computed vertical shifts at the benchmarks with those estimated from GEOID12B published by NGS. In addition, Kriging model was used to interpolate local maps for the geoid undulations from the benchmark heights. The maps were compared with corresponding parts of GEOID12B. No biases were detected in the results and only shifts due to random errors were found. Discrepancies in the range of ten centimetres were noticed between our geoid undulation and the values available from NGS.

Meteorology and GNSS? What is the benefit?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drummond, P.; Grünig, S.

2010-12-01

Due to the strong correlation between water vapor in the atmosphere and GNSS tropospheric propagation delays, we can estimate the Integrated Precipitable Water Vapor (IPWV) in the atmosphere through GNSS measurements. This parameter is crucial for meteorologists as the water content in the atmosphere is a key parameter in the weather models. The Total Electron Content (TEC) in the ionosphere has a huge impact on the ionospheric propagation delay in GNSS signals. By computing the ionospheric delay from GNSS measurements it is possible to predict the TEC which is an excellent indicator for ionospheric activity. The benefit is that we can estimate the influence on the RTK performance from TEC values. The atmospheric feature in the Trimble Atmosphere App (as well as in VRSNet software) allows computing both IPWV and TEC values from a CORS network. IPWV is computed using surface meteorological data such as temperature and pressure as well as radiosonde data. The results are shown in a table like form as well as in numerous graphical forms such as contour and surface plots, station and condition charts. The computed values can be animated in a movie over the last 24 hours.

A Comparative Study of Precise Point Positioning (PPP) Accuracy Using Online Services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malinowski, Marcin; Kwiecień, Janusz

2016-12-01

Precise Point Positioning (PPP) is a technique used to determine the position of receiver antenna without communication with the reference station. It may be an alternative solution to differential measurements, where maintaining a connection with a single RTK station or a regional network of reference stations RTN is necessary. This situation is especially common in areas with poorly developed infrastructure of ground stations. A lot of research conducted so far on the use of the PPP technique has been concerned about the development of entire day observation sessions. However, this paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of accuracy of absolute determination of position from observations which last between 1 to 7 hours with the use of four permanent services which execute calculations with PPP technique such as: Automatic Precise Positioning Service (APPS), Canadian Spatial Reference System Precise Point Positioning (CSRS-PPP), GNSS Analysis and Positioning Software (GAPS) and magicPPP - Precise Point Positioning Solution (magicGNSS). On the basis of acquired results of measurements, it can be concluded that at least two-hour long measurements allow acquiring an absolute position with an accuracy of 2-4 cm. An evaluation of the impact on the accuracy of simultaneous positioning of three points test network on the change of the horizontal distance and the relative height difference between measured triangle vertices was also conducted. Distances and relative height differences between points of the triangular test network measured with a laser station Leica TDRA6000 were adopted as references. The analyses of results show that at least two hours long measurement sessions can be used to determine the horizontal distance or the difference in height with an accuracy of 1-2 cm. Rapid products employed in calculations conducted with PPP technique reached the accuracy of determining coordinates on a close level as in elaborations which employ Final products.

SIRGAS: ITRF densification in Latin America and the Caribbean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brunini, C.; Costa, S.; Mackern, V.; Martínez, W.; Sánchez, L.; Seemüller, W.; da Silva, A.

2009-04-01

The continental reference frame of SIRGAS (Sistema de Referencia Geocéntrico para las Américas) is at present realized by the SIRGAS Continuously Operating Network (SIRGAS-CON) composed by about 200 stations distributed over all Latin America and the Caribbean. SIRGAS member countries are qualifying their national reference frames by installing continuously operating GNSS stations, which have to be consistently integrated into the continental network. As the number of these stations is rapidly increasing, the processing strategy of the SIRGAS-CON network was redefined during the SIRGAS 2008 General Meeting in May 2008. The new strategy relies upon the definition of two hierarchy levels: a) A core network (SIRGAS-CON-C) with homogeneous continental coverage and stabile site locations ensures the long-term stability of the reference frame and provides the primary link to the ITRS. Stations belonging to this network have been selected so that each country contributes with a number of stations defined according to its surface and guarantying that the selected stations are the best in operability, continuity, reliability, and geographical coverage. b) Several densification sub-networks (SIRGAS-CON-D) improve the accessibility to the reference frame. The SIRGAS-CON-D sub-networks shall correspond to the national reference frames, i.e., as an optimum there shall be as many sub-networks as countries in the region. The goal is that each country processes its own continuously stations following the SIRGAS processing guidelines, which are defined in accordance with the IERS and IGS standards and conventions. Since at present not all of the countries are operating a processing centre, the existing stations are classified in three densification networks (a Northern, a middle, and a Southern one), which are processed by three local processing centres until new ones are installed. As SIRGAS is defined as a densification of the ITRS, stations included in the core network, as well as in the densification sub-networks match the requirements, characteristics, and processing performance of the ITRF. The SIRGAS-CON-C network is processed by DGFI (Deutsches Geodätisches Forschungsinstitut, Germany) as the IGS-RNAAC-SIR. The Local Processing Centres are for the Northern sub-network IGAC (Instituto Geográfico Augustín Codazzi, Colombia), for the middle sub-network IBGE (Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estátistica, Brazil), and for the Southern sub-network IGG-CIMA (Instituto de Geodesia y Geodinámica, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Argentina). These four Processing Centres deliver loosely constrained weekly solutions for station coordinates (i.e., satellite orbits, satellite clock offsets, and Earth orientation parameters are fixed to the final weekly IGS solutions and coordinates for all sites are constrained to 1 m). The individual contributions are integrated in a unified solution by the SIRGAS Combination Centres (DGFI and IBGE) according to the following strategy: 1) Individual solutions are reviewed/corrected for possible format problems, data inconsistencies, etc. 2) Constraints imposed in the delivered normal equations are removed. 3) Sub-networks are individually aligned to the IGS05 reference frame by applying the No Net Rotation (NNR) and No Net Translation (NNT) conditions. 4) Coordinates obtained in (3) for each sub-network are compared to IGS05 values and to each other in order to identify possible outliers. 5) Stations with large residuals (more than 10 mm in the N-E component, and more than 20 mm in the Up component) are reduced from the normal equations. Steps (3), (4), and (5) are done iteratively. 6) Since at present the four Analysis Centres are processing GPS observations only and all of them use the Bernese Software for computing weekly solutions, relative weighting factors are not applied in the combination. 7) Individual normal equations are accumulated and solved for computing a loosely constrained weekly solution for station coordinates (i.e., coordinates for all stations are constrained to 1 m). This solution in SINEX format is submitted to IGS for the global polyhedron. 8) Combination obtained in (7) is constrained by applying NNR+NNT conditions with respect to the IGS05 stations included the SIRGAS region to provide constrained coordinates for all SIRGAS-CON (core + densification) stations. The applied IGS05 reference coordinates correspond to the weekly IGS solution for the global network, i.e., coordinates included in the igsYYPwwww.snx files. This constrained solution provides the final weekly SIRGAS-CON coordinates for practical applications. The DGFI (i.e. IGS RNAAC SIR) weekly combinations are delivered to the IGS Data Centres for combination in the global polyhedron, and made available for users as official SIRGAS products, respectively. The IBGE weekly combinations provide control and back-up. The above described analysis strategy is applied since GPS week 1495. Before (since June 1996 to August 2008), the SIRGAS-CON network was totally processed by DGFI. Until now, results show a very good agreement with previous computations; however, the present sub-networks distribution has two main disadvantages: 1) Not all SIRGAS-CON stations are included in the same number of individual solutions, i.e., they are unequally weighted in the weekly combinations, and 2) since there are not enough Local Processing Centres, the required redundancy (each station processed by at least three processing centres) is not fulfilled. Therefore, efforts are being made to install additional Local Processing Centres in Latin American countries as Argentina, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Space station needs, attributes and architectural options study. Volume 7-1: Data book. Science and applications missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

User requirements for space station use are presented for the following areas: space environments, astrophysics, Earth observations, and life science. Also included are a summary of study tasks and final reports, a topical cross reference, key team members, and acronyms and abbreviations.

Host target modification as a strategy to counter pathogen hijacking of the jasmonate hormone receptor

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Li; Yao, Jian; Withers, John; ...

2015-11-02

In the past decade, characterization of the host targets of pathogen virulence factors took a center stage in the study of pathogenesis and disease susceptibility in plants and humans. However, the impressive knowledge of host targets has not been broadly exploited to inhibit pathogen infection. In this paper, we show that host target modification could be a promising new approach to “protect” the disease-vulnerable components of plants. In particular, recent studies have identified the plant hormone jasmonate (JA) receptor as one of the common targets of virulence factors from highly evolved biotrophic/hemibiotrophic pathogens. Strains of the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae,more » for example, produce proteinaceous effectors, as well as a JA-mimicking toxin, coronatine (COR), to activate JA signaling as a mechanism to promote disease susceptibility. Guided by the crystal structure of the JA receptor and evolutionary clues, we succeeded in modifying the JA receptor to allow for sufficient endogenous JA signaling but greatly reduced sensitivity to COR. Transgenic Arabidopsis expressing this modified receptor not only are fertile and maintain a high level of insect defense, but also gain the ability to resist COR-producing pathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato and P. syringae pv. maculicola. Finally, our results provide a proof-of-concept demonstration that host target modification can be a promising new approach to prevent the virulence action of highly evolved pathogens.« less

Psychometric Comparisons of Benevolent and Corrective Humor across 22 Countries: The Virtue Gap in Humor Goes International

PubMed Central

Heintz, Sonja; Ruch, Willibald; Platt, Tracey; Pang, Dandan; Carretero-Dios, Hugo; Dionigi, Alberto; Argüello Gutiérrez, Catalina; Brdar, Ingrid; Brzozowska, Dorota; Chen, Hsueh-Chih; Chłopicki, Władysław; Collins, Matthew; Ďurka, Róbert; Yahfoufi, Najwa Y. El; Quiroga-Garza, Angélica; Isler, Robert B.; Mendiburo-Seguel, Andrés; Ramis, TamilSelvan; Saglam, Betül; Shcherbakova, Olga V.; Singh, Kamlesh; Stokenberga, Ieva; Wong, Peter S. O.; Torres-Marín, Jorge

2018-01-01

Recently, two forms of virtue-related humor, benevolent and corrective, have been introduced. Benevolent humor treats human weaknesses and wrongdoings benevolently, while corrective humor aims at correcting and bettering them. Twelve marker items for benevolent and corrective humor (the BenCor) were developed, and it was demonstrated that they fill the gap between humor as temperament and virtue. The present study investigates responses to the BenCor from 25 samples in 22 countries (overall N = 7,226). The psychometric properties of the BenCor were found to be sufficient in most of the samples, including internal consistency, unidimensionality, and factorial validity. Importantly, benevolent and corrective humor were clearly established as two positively related, yet distinct dimensions of virtue-related humor. Metric measurement invariance was supported across the 25 samples, and scalar invariance was supported across six age groups (from 18 to 50+ years) and across gender. Comparisons of samples within and between four countries (Malaysia, Switzerland, Turkey, and the UK) showed that the item profiles were more similar within than between countries, though some evidence for regional differences was also found. This study thus supported, for the first time, the suitability of the 12 marker items of benevolent and corrective humor in different countries, enabling a cumulative cross-cultural research and eventually applications of humor aiming at the good. PMID:29479326

In situ observation of fracture processes in high-strength concretes and limestone using high-speed X-ray phase-contrast imaging

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

Parab, Niranjan D.; Guo, Zherui; Hudspeth, Matthew

The mechanical properties and fracture mechanisms of geomaterials and construction materials such as concrete are reported to be dependent on the loading rates. However, the in situ cracking inside such specimens cannot be visualized using traditional optical imaging methods since the materials are opaque. In this study, the in situ sub-surface failure/damage mechanisms in Cor-Tuf (a reactive powder concrete), a high-strength concrete (HSC) and Indiana limestone under dynamic loading were investigated using high-speed synchrotron X-ray phase-contrast imaging. Dynamic compressive loading was applied using a modified Kolsky bar and fracture images were recorded using a synchronized high-speed synchrotron X-ray imaging set-up.more » Three-dimensional synchrotron X-ray tomography was also performed to record the microstructure of the specimens before dynamic loading. In the Cor-Tuf and HSC specimens, two different modes of cracking were observed: straight cracking or angular cracking with respect to the direction of loading. In limestone, cracks followed the grain boundaries and voids, ultimately fracturing the specimen. Cracks in HSC were more tortuous than the cracks in Cor-Tuf specimens. The effects of the microstructure on the observed cracking behaviour are discussed. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates’.« less

Capturing and Processing Soil GHG Fluxes Using the LI-COR LI-8100A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Liukang; McDermitt, Dayle; Hupp, Jason; Johnson, Mark; Madsen, Rod

2015-04-01

The LI-COR LI-8100A Automated Soil CO2 Flux System is designed to measure soil CO2 efflux using automated chambers and a non-steady state measurement protocol. While CO2 is an important gas in many contexts, it is not the only gas of interest for many research applications. With some simple plumbing modifications, many third party analyzers capable of measuring other trace gases, e.g. N2O, CH4, or 13CO2 etc., can be interfaced with the LI-8100A System, and LI-COR's data processing software (SoilFluxPro™) can be used to compute fluxes for these additional gases. In this paper we describe considerations for selecting an appropriate third party analyzer to interface with the system, how to integrate data into the system, and the procedure used to compute fluxes of additional gases in SoilFluxPro™. A case study is presented to demonstrate methane flux measurements using an Ultra-Portable Greenhouse Gas Analyzer (Ultra-Portable GGA, model 915-0011), manufactured by Los Gatos Research and integrated into the LI-8100A System. Laboratory and field test results show that the soil CO2 efflux based on the time series of CO2 data measured either with the LI-8100A System or with the Ultra-Portable GGA are essentially the same. This suggests that soil GHG fluxes measured with both systems are reliable.

Assessment of moderate coffee consumption and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer: a Mendelian randomization study.

PubMed

Ong, Jue-Sheng; Hwang, Liang-Dar; Cuellar-Partida, Gabriel; Martin, Nicholas G; Chenevix-Trench, Georgia; Quinn, Michael C J; Cornelis, Marilyn C; Gharahkhani, Puya; Webb, Penelope M; MacGregor, Stuart

2018-04-01

Coffee consumption has been shown to be associated with various health outcomes in observational studies. However, evidence for its association with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is inconsistent and it is unclear whether these associations are causal. We used single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with (i) coffee and (ii) caffeine consumption to perform Mendelian randomization (MR) on EOC risk. We conducted a two-sample MR using genetic data on 44 062 individuals of European ancestry from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium (OCAC), and combined instrumental variable estimates using a Wald-type ratio estimator. For all EOC cases, the causal odds ratio (COR) for genetically predicted consumption of one additional cup of coffee per day was 0.92 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79, 1.06]. The COR was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.73, 1.10) for high-grade serous EOC. The COR for genetically predicted consumption of an additional 80 mg caffeine was 1.01 (95% CI: 0.92, 1.11) for all EOC cases and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.73, 1.10) for high-grade serous cases. We found no evidence indicative of a strong association between EOC risk and genetically predicted coffee or caffeine levels. However, our estimates were not statistically inconsistent with earlier observational studies and we were unable to rule out small protective associations.

Assessment of IRI-2012, NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models with observed equatorial ionization anomaly in Africa during 2009 sudden stratospheric warming event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolaji, O. S.; Oyeyemi, E. O.; Adewale, A. O.; Wu, Q.; Okoh, D.; Doherty, P. H.; Kaka, R. O.; Abbas, M.; Owolabi, C.; Jidele, P. A.

2017-11-01

In Africa, we assessed the performance of all the three options of International Reference Ionosphere 2012, IRI-2012 (i.e. IRI-2001, IRI-2001COR and IRI-NeQuick), NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models prior to and during 2009 sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event to predict equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest locations and their magnitudes using total electron content (TEC) from experimental records of Global Positioning System (GPS). We confirmed that the IRI-Plas 2015 that appeared as the best compared to all of the models as regard prediction of the EIA crest locations in the northern hemisphere of Africa is due to discontinuities in the GPS data between ∼8° N and 22° N. As regard the predictions of EIA crest magnitudes and the location of EIA crests in the southern hemisphere of Africa, they are not present in all the models. The NeQuick-2 model does not have the capability to predict either the EIA crest location in the northern or southern hemisphere. The SSW effect on the low latitude was able to modify a single EIA crest to pre-noon and post noon EIA crests in the northern hemisphere during the SSW peak phase and significantly reduced the GPS TEC magnitudes over the hemispheres as well. These SSW effects and delays of plasma transportation to higher latitudes in GPS TEC were absent in all the models. For future improvements of IRI-2012, NeQuick-2 and IRI-Plas 2015 models, SSW conditions should be included in order to characterize the effect of lower atmosphere on the ionosphere. The EIA trough modeling is only present in IRI-2001COR and IRI-2001NeQuick options. In the middle latitude, all the model could not predict the location of highest TEC magnitudes found at RBAY (Richardsbay, South Africa).

Independent effects of blood pressure and parathyroid hormone on aortic pulse wave velocity in untreated Chinese patients.

PubMed

Cheng, Yi-Bang; Li, Li-Hua; Guo, Qian-Hui; Li, Fei-Ka; Huang, Qi-Fang; Sheng, Chang-Sheng; Wang, Ji-Guang; Staessen, Jan A; Li, Yan

2017-09-01

Whether or not calcium-regulating hormones stiffen arteries independent of blood pressure (BP) is uncertain. We investigated the independent associations of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) with 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D], parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 24-h ambulatory BP in untreated Chinese patients. Consecutive untreated patients referred for ambulatory BP monitoring were recruited. PWV was measured with a high-fidelity micromanometer and the SphygmoCor software (AtCor Medical, West Ryde, New South Wales, Australia). Serum 25(OH)D and PTH were determined by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Analysis of variance, single and multiple regressions were applied for analyses. In 1052 untreated patients (50.7% women; mean age, 51 years), PWV averaged 7.8 m/s, 24-h SBP/DBP 126.5/81.7 mmHg, serum 25(OH)D and PTH 36.0 nmol/l and 61.6 pg/ml, respectively. In multivariable-adjusted analyses, BP (P < 0.001) and PTH (P = 0.012) increased from less than 25th to at least 75th percentile of the PWV distribution. In continuous analyses, PWV independently increased by 0.40/0.23 m/s per 1-SD increment in SBP/DBP (P < 0.001) and by 0.14 m/s for a doubling of serum PTH (P = 0.029). Associations of PWV with BP were tighter than with PTH (P < 0.001). In pathway analysis, the effect of PTH on PWV did not run via serum or urinary calcium (P = 0.65), but PTH had both a direct (P = 0.026) and a BP-mediated indirect effect (P = 0.043) on PWV. In none of our analyses were PWV associated with serum 25(OH)D. Arterial stiffness, as assessed by PWV, independently increased both with BP and with PTH, but BP remains the main driver of arterial stiffening.

Solar power satellite system definition study, phase 2. Volume 2: Reference system description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

System descriptions and cost estimates for the reference system of the solar power satellite program are presented. The reference system is divided into five principal elements: the solar power satellites; space construction and support; space and ground transportation; ground receiving stations; and operations control. The program scenario and non-recurring costs are briefly described.

76 FR 53492 - South Carolina Public Service Authority (Also Referred to as Santee Cooper); Combined Licenses...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-26

... Carolina Public Service Authority (Also Referred to as Santee Cooper); Combined Licenses for Virgil C... as Santee Cooper), for two Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) part 52 combined... Service Authority (Also Referred to as Santee Cooper) Application for the Virgil C. Summer Nuclear Station...

59th Medical Wing Clinical Research Division Clinical Investigations Program Pathology Poster

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-04-28

or ~h 711:>hs ~ ngsu~p rt H: n . 2. PrrJ: 3. relie r ~d study. Ir this Is II ~hnlclll ~b an senmt repGrtlbl1~ ,etc..) n the Prctocol n:e’ !:ox. the...hope 4. 1’r E. re block • use lin eleetrtlll1l::sl;l 7. a:tmn:four o:r.;lll~ ro ch leibe aooompll cor"cem 1=.e3setx:fImC! o 59 Il:5lIlI31 n 502 I (Eth...the esenllliloo does nat cre~ lilt)’ cause ror CoO cor. Isa 000 1)’.~ elhlcs ~o1ew Is nat requRd, 5 n ::e e DoD enuty Is tlIe10 II Is a no.n-DoDcomm

Anomalous dual drainage of the right pulmonary veins in a patient with cor triatriatum: report of a case without scimitar sign.

PubMed

Tansel, T; Harmandar, B; Dayioglu, E; Onursal, E

2006-02-01

The majority of patients with partial anomalous drainage of pulmonary veins are asymptomatic during infancy and childhood. Patients with significant left-to-right shunt develop symptoms and benefit from early corrective surgery. Anomalous pulmonary veins draining into inferior vena cava is very rare and frequently encountered in association with scimitar syndrome. The purpose of this case report is to describe a non-scimitar patient with cor triatriatum who had anomalous dual drainage of right pulmonary veins into inferior vena cava/left atrium and anomalous connection of persistent left superior vena cava with a common pulmonary venous chamber. The patient underwent an operation with redirection of anomalous pulmonary venous drainage into left atrium and ligation of persistent left superior vena cava.

CORS BAADE-WESSELINK DISTANCE TO THE LMC NGC 1866 BLUE POPULOUS CLUSTER

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

Molinaro, R.; Ripepi, V.; Marconi, M.

2012-03-20

We used optical, near-infrared photometry, and radial velocity data for a sample of 11 Cepheids belonging to the young LMC blue populous cluster NGC 1866 to estimate their radii and distances on the basis of the CORS Baade-Wesselink method. This technique, based on an accurate calibration of surface brightness as a function of (U - B), (V - K) colors, allows us to estimate, simultaneously, the linear radius and the angular diameter of Cepheid variables, and consequently to derive their distance. A rigorous error estimate on radii and distances was derived by using Monte Carlo simulations. Our analysis gives amore » distance modulus for NGC 1866 of 18.51 {+-} 0.03 mag, which is in agreement with several independent results.« less

Performance of the Zeeman analyzer system of the McDonald Observatory 2.7 meter telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogt, S. S.; Tull, R. G.; Kelton, P. W.

1980-01-01

The paper describes a multichannel photoelectric Zeeman analyzer at the coude spectrograph of the McDonald 2.7 m reflector. A comparison of Lick and McDonald observations of HD 153882 reveals no significant difference in slopes or zero points of the two magnetic fields indicating that the systematic scale difference of 30-40% is probably instrumental in origin. Observations of the magnetic variable beta Cor Bor revealed a more nearly sinusoidal magnetic curve with less internal scatter than the photographically determined field measures of the Lick and Mauna Kea Zeeman systems. Investigation of periodicity in the secularly varying magnetic minima of beta Cor Bor did not yield evidence of previously noted periodicities other than that expected from the time structure of the data sampling.

Study on the construction of Intelligent Courier Station Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

zhao, Ce; lu, Jia xin; li, Zhuang zhuang; shao, Zi rong; pi, Kun yi

2018-06-01

Campus Express is an important window to observe the city consumption logistics service "last kilometer".The research on Campus Express service is not only conducive to campus environment improvement and service quality promotion, but also provides all types of community, agglomeration areas such as urban terminal "last kilometer" logistics with reference.This article first proposed the main problems of campus express service,analyzed the mode of smart express station and finally built a smart express station.

Aquatic Plant Control Research Program. Ecological Assessment of Kirk Pond

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-03-01

Botany 60, 1216-21. Bamickol, P. G. (1941). "Food habits of Gambusia affinis from Reelfoot Lake , Tennessee, with special reference to malarial control...34 Report of the Reelfoot Lake Biological Station 5, 5-13. Barwick, D. H., and Holcomb, D. E. (1976). "Relation of largemouth bass reproduction to crowded...1991 (Figure 3). Pond elevation at all in- lake stations remained constant throughout the study. Station I represents the inflow to the impoundment

16. SECOND FLOOR RCA COMMUNICATION RECEIVING STATION FORMERLY THE POINTTOPOINT ...

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

16. SECOND FLOOR RCA COMMUNICATION RECEIVING STATION FORMERLY THE POINT-TO-POINT RECEIVERS WERE LOCATED HERE. (SOUTHEAST ARCHIVAL PHOTOS AND RCA LOGO ON FLOOR AS A REFERENCE). DURING THE LAST PHASE OF THE RCA ERA AND DURING GENERAL ELECTRIC-AMERITRON OWNERSHIP THIS ROOM HOUSED SATELLITE OPERATING EQUIPMENT. WHEN BOUGHT BY MCI EQUIPMENT (HI TECH) WAS REMOVED. AREA IS NOW USED FOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL. - Marconi Radio Sites, Receiving, Point Reyes Station, Marin County, CA

STS-46 aft flight deck payload station "Marsha's workstation" aboard OV-104

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-11-19

STS046-01-024 (31 July-8 Aug 1992) --- This area on the Space Shuttle Atlantis' flight deck forward port side was referred to as "Marsha's (Ivins) work station" by fellow crew members who good-naturedly kidded the mission specialist and who usually added various descriptive modifiers such as "messy" or "cluttered". Food, cameras, camera gear, cassettes, cable, flight text material and other paraphernalia can be seen in the area, just behind the commander's station.

GNSS station displacement analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haritonova, Diana; Balodis, Janis; Janpaule, Inese; Normand, Madara

2013-04-01

Time series of GNSS station results of both the EUPOS®-Riga and LatPos networks have been developed at the Institute of Geodesy and Geoinformation (University of Latvia). The reference stations from EUREF Permanent Network (EPN) in surroundings of Latvia have been used and Bernese GPS Software, Version 5.0, in both static and kinematic modes was applied. The standard data sets were taken from IGS data base. The results of time series have been analysed and distinctive behaviour of daily and subdaily movements of EUPOS®-Riga and LatPos stations was identified. The reasons of dependence of GNSS station coordinate distribution on possible external factors such as seismic activity of some areas of Latvia and periodic processes were given.

Korea Geodetic VLBI Station, Sejong

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donghyun, Baek; Sangoh, Yi; Hongjong, Oh; Sangchul, Han

2013-01-01

The Sejong VLBI station officially joined the IVS as a new Network Station in 2012. This report summarizes the activities of the Sejong station during 2012. The following are the activities at the station: 1) VLBI test observations were carried out with the Tsukuba 34-m antenna of the GSI in Japan. As a result, the Sejong antenna needs to improve its efficiency, which is currently in progress, 2) A survey to connect the VLBI reference point to GNSS and ground marks was conducted, and 3) To see the indirect effects of RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) at this place, we checked the omni-direction (AZ 0? to 360?, EL fixed at 7?) for RFI influence.

The Global Geodetic Observing System: Space Geodesy Networks for the Future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearlman, Michael; Pavlis, Erricos; Ma, Chopo; Altamini, Zuheir; Noll, Carey; Stowers, David

2011-01-01

Ground-based networks of co-located space geodetic techniques (VLBI, SLR, GNSS. and DORIS) are the basis for the development and maintenance of the International Terrestrial Reference frame (ITRF), which is our metric of reference for measurements of global change, The Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) has established a task to develop a strategy to design, integrate and maintain the fundamental geodetic network and supporting infrastructure in a sustainable way to satisfy the long-term requirements for the reference frame. The GGOS goal is an origin definition at 1 mm or better and a temporal stability on the order of 0.1 mm/y, with similar numbers for the scale and orientation components. These goals are based on scientific requirements to address sea level rise with confidence, but other applications are not far behind. Recent studies including one by the US National Research Council has strongly stated the need and the urgency for the fundamental space geodesy network. Simulations are underway to examining accuracies for origin, scale and orientation of the resulting ITRF based on various network designs and system performance to determine the optimal global network to achieve this goal. To date these simulations indicate that 24 - 32 co-located stations are adequate to define the reference frame and a more dense GNSS and DORIS network will be required to distribute the reference frame to users anywhere on Earth. Stations in the new global network will require geologically stable sites with good weather, established infrastructure, and local support and personnel. GGOS wil seek groups that are interested in participation. GGOS intends to issues a Call for Participation of groups that would like to contribute in the network implementation and operation. Some examples of integrated stations currently in operation or under development will be presented. We will examine necessary conditions and challenges in designing a co-location station.

Accuracy and coverage of the modernized Polish Maritime differential GPS system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Specht, Cezary

2011-01-01

The DGPS navigation service augments The NAVSTAR Global Positioning System by providing localized pseudorange correction factors and ancillary information which are broadcast over selected marine reference stations. The DGPS service position and integrity information satisfy requirements in coastal navigation and hydrographic surveys. Polish Maritime DGPS system has been established in 1994 and modernized (in 2009) to meet the requirements set out in IMO resolution for a future GNSS, but also to preserve backward signal compatibility of user equipment. Having finalized installation of the new technology L1, L2 reference equipment performance tests were performed.The paper presents results of the coverage modeling and accuracy measuring campaign based on long-term signal analyses of the DGPS reference station Rozewie, which was performed for 26 days in July 2009. Final results allowed to verify the coverage area of the differential signal from reference station and calculated repeatable and absolute accuracy of the system, after the technical modernization. Obtained field strength level area and position statistics (215,000 fixes) were compared to past measurements performed in 2002 (coverage) and 2005 (accuracy), when previous system infrastructure was in operation.So far, no campaigns were performed on differential Galileo. However, as signals, signal processing and receiver techniques are comparable to those know from DGPS. Because all satellite differential GNSS systems use the same transmission standard (RTCM), maritime DGPS Radiobeacons are standardized in all radio communication aspects (frequency, binary rate, modulation), then the accuracy results of differential Galileo can be expected as a similar to DGPS.Coverage of the reference station was calculated based on unique software, which calculate the signal strength level based on transmitter parameters or field signal strength measurement campaign, done in the representative points. The software works based on Baltic sea vector map, ground electric parameters and models atmospheric noise level in the transmission band.

NRT Atmospheric Water Vapour Retrieval on the Area of Poland at IGG WUELS AC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaplon, Jan; Bosy, Jaroslaw; Sierny, Jan; Hadas, Tomasz; Rohm, Witold; Wilgan, Karina; Ryczywolski, Marcin; Oruba, Artur; Kroszczynski, Krzysztof

2013-04-01

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are designed for positioning, navigation and amongst other possible applications it can also be used to derive information about the state of the atmosphere. Continuous observations from GNSS receivers provide an excellent tool for studying the neutral atmosphere, currently in near real-time. The Near Real-Time (NRT) neutral atmosphere and water vapour distribution models are currently obtained with high resolution from Ground Base Augmentation Systems (GBAS), where reference stations are equipped with GNSS and meteorological sensors. The Poland territory is covered by dense network of GNSS stations in the frame of GBAS system called ASG-EUPOS (www.asgeupos.pl). This system was established in year 2008 by the Head Office of Geodesy and Cartography in the frame of the EUPOS project (www.eupos.org) for providing positioning services. The GNSS data are available from 130 reference stations located in Poland and neighbour countries. The ground meteorological observations in the area of Poland and neighbour countries are available from ASG-EUPOS stations included in EUREF Permanent Network (EPN) stations, airports meteorological stations (METAR messages stations), and stations managed by national Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (SYNOP messages stations). Institute of Geodesy and Geoinformatics (IGG) of Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences had created permanent NRT service of ZTD (Zenith Total Delay) estimation for the area of Poland from GPS observations called IGGHZG. The first part of the paper presents the methodology of NRT GNSS data processing for ASG-EUPOS stations for ZTD estimation and its comparison to the results coming from EPN ACs and Military University of Technology in Warsaw AC (MUT AC). Second part covers the procedure of IWV (atmospheric Integrated Water Vapour content) estimation at IGG from IGGHZG product and ZHD (Zenith Hydrostatic Delay) derived from Saastamoinen formula (1972) and meteorological observations from ASG-EUPOS stations, SYNOP (synoptic stations network) and METAR (airport meteorological stations). Paper presents comparison of IWV with the results from NWP (Numerical Weather Prediction) models HIRLAM (via EGVAPII - http://egvap.dmi.dk) and COAMPS (via MUT AC) as well.

Determination of Seismic Activity on the Main Marmara Fault with GPS Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alkan, M. N.; Alkan, R. M.; Yavaşoğlu, H.; Köse, Z.; Aladoğan, K.; Özbey, V.

2017-12-01

The tectonic plates that creates the Earth have always been an important topic to work on for Geosciences. Plate motion affecting the Earth's crust have occurred for millions of years. This slow but continuous movement that has been going on for millions of years can only be followed by instrumental measurements. In recent years, this process has been done with GPS very accurately. The North Anatolian Fault (NAF) is a major right-lateral, strike-slip fault that extends more than 1200 km extends along all North Anatolia from Bingol to Saros Gulf. The NAFZ is divided into Southern and Northern Branches to the east of Marmara region that several destructive earthquakes occurred, such as Izmit (in 1999, Mw=7.4) and Duzce (in 1999, Mw=7.2) in the last century. MMF (Main Marmara Fault) which is the part of the Northern Branch in the Marmara Sea, starting in from the Gulf of Izmit-Adapazarı and reaching the Gulf of Saros. The determination of the deformation accumulated on the MMF has become extremely important especially after the 1999 Izmit earthquake. According to the recent studies, the MMF is the largest unbroken part of the fault and is divided into segments. These segments are Cinarcik, Prince Island, Central Marmara and Tekirdag. Recent studies have demonstrated that the Prince Island segment is fully locked. However, studies that are focused on the Central Marmara segment, that is located offshore Istanbul, a giant metropole that has more than 14 million populations, do not conclude about the presence of a seismic gap, capable of generating a big earthquake. Therefore, in the scope of this study, a new GPS network was established at short and long distance from the Main Marmara Fault, to densify the existing GPS network. 3 campaign GPS measurements were done in 2015, 2016, 2017. The evaluation of the datasets were done by GAMIT/GLOBK software. For the evaluation, 30 continuous observation stations, 14 stations connected to the IGS network and 16 stations connected to the local networks CORS-TR and ISKI-UKBS, and 18 campaign stations that located in the study area were used. The evaluation was made between 12-26 August for each year and thus intended to determine the kinematics of the Main Marmara Fault.

Synthesis of Natural Electric and Magnetic Time Series Using Impulse Responses of Inter-station Transfer Functions and a Reference

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, H.; Cheng, J.

2017-12-01

A method to Synthesis natural electric and magnetic Time series is proposed whereby the time series of local site are derived using an Impulse Response and a reference (STIR). The method is based on the assumption that the external source of magnetic fields are uniform, and the electric and magnetic fields acquired at the surface satisfy a time-independent linear relation in frequency domain.According to the convolution theorem, we can synthesize natural electric and magnetic time series using the impulse responses of inter-station transfer functions with a reference. Applying this method, two impulse responses need to be estimated: the quasi-MT impulse response tensor and the horizontal magnetic impulse response tensor. These impulse response tensors relate the local horizontal electric and magnetic components with the horizontal magnetic components at a reference site, respectively. Some clean segments of times series are selected to estimate impulse responses by using least-square (LS) method. STIR is similar with STIN (Wang, 2017), but STIR does not need to estimate the inter-station transfer functions, and the synthesized data are more accurate in high frequency, where STIN fails when the inter-station transfer functions are contaminated severely. A test with good quality of MT data shows that synthetic time-series are similar to natural electric and magnetic time series. For contaminated AMT example, when this method is used to remove noise present at the local site, the scatter of MT sounding curves are clear reduced, and the data quality are improved. *This work is funded by National Key R&D Program of China(2017YFC0804105),National Natural Science Foundation of China (41604064, 51574250), State Key Laboratory of Coal Resources and Safe Mining ,China University of Mining & Technology,(SKLCRSM16DC09)

Nowak reads a checklist during OBSS berthing operations on STS-121

NASA Image and Video Library

2006-07-05

S121-E-05401 (5 July 2006) --- Astronaut Lisa M. Nowak, STS-121 mission specialist, uses a handy reference manual while stationed at the controls on the aft flight deck of the Space Shuttle Discovery. She is preparing for the next day's activities which include docking with the International Space Station.

Nowak reads a checklist during OBSS berthing operations on STS-121

NASA Image and Video Library

2006-07-05

S121-E-05402 (5 July 2006) --- Astronaut Lisa M. Nowak, STS-121 mission specialist, uses a handy reference manual while stationed at the controls on the aft flight deck of the Space Shuttle Discovery. She is preparing for the next day's activities which include docking with the International Space Station.

Using Satellite Imagery with ET Weather Station Networks to Map Crop Water Use for Irrigation Scheduling: TOPS-SIMS.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Evapotranspiration estimates for scheduling irrigation must be field specific and real time. Weather station networks provide daily reference ET values, but users need to select crop coefficients for their particular crop and field. A prototype system has been developed that combines satellite image...

Investigation of mantle kinematics beneath the Hellenic-subduction zone with teleseismic direct shear waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Confal, Judith M.; Eken, Tuna; Tilmann, Frederik; Yolsal-Çevikbilen, Seda; Çubuk-Sabuncu, Yeşim; Saygin, Erdinc; Taymaz, Tuncay

2016-12-01

The subduction and roll-back of the African plate beneath the Eurasian plate along the arcuate Hellenic trench is the dominant geodynamic process in the Aegean and western Anatolia. Mantle flow and lithospheric kinematics in this region can potentially be understood better by mapping seismic anisotropy. This study uses direct shear-wave splitting measurements based on the Reference Station Technique in the southern Aegean Sea to reveal seismic anisotropy in the mantle. The technique overcomes possible contamination from source-side anisotropy on direct S-wave signals recorded at a station pair by maximizing the correlation between the seismic traces at reference and target stations after correcting the reference stations for known receiver-side anisotropy and the target stations for arbitrary splitting parameters probed via a grid search. We obtained splitting parameters at 35 stations with good-quality S-wave signals extracted from 81 teleseismic events. Employing direct S-waves enabled more stable and reliable splitting measurements than previously possible, based on sparse SKS data at temporary stations, with one to five events for local SKS studies, compared with an average of 12 events for each station in this study. The fast polarization directions mostly show NNE-SSW orientation with splitting time delays between 1.15 s and 1.62 s. Two stations in the west close to the Hellenic Trench and one in the east show N-S oriented fast polarizations. In the back-arc region three stations exhibit NE-SW orientation. The overall fast polarization variations tend to be similar to those obtained from previous SKS splitting studies in the region but indicate a more consistent pattern, most likely due to the usage of a larger number of individual observations in direct S-wave derived splitting measurements. Splitting analysis on direct shear waves typically resulted in larger split time delays compared to previous studies, possibly because S-waves travel along a longer path in the same anisotropic structure. Considering the S-derived splitting measurements of this study together with earlier SKS and Rayleigh wave anisotropy modelling results we suggest that the very consistent direct S-derived fast shear wave directions can be explained by the lattice-preferred orientation of olivine in the asthenospheric mantle due to mantle flow induced by the roll-back of the slab. It is possible that a small contribution originated in the lower crust beneath the study region where anisotropic fabric might have formed in response to extension in the Miocene.

Integration of Reference Frames Using VLBI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, Chopo; Smith, David E. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) has the unique potential to integrate the terrestrial and celestial reference frames through simultaneous estimation of positions and velocities of approx. 40 active VLBI stations and a similar number of stations/sites with sufficient historical data, the position and position stability of approx. 150 well-observed extragalactic radio sources and another approx. 500 sources distributed fairly uniformly on the sky, and the time series of the five parameters that specify the relative orientation of the two frames. The full realization of this potential is limited by a number of factors including the temporal and spatial distribution of the stations, uneven distribution of observations over the sources and the sky, variations in source structure, modeling of the solid/fluid Earth and troposphere, logistical restrictions on the daily observing network size, and differing strategies for optimizing analysis for TRF, for CRF and for EOP. The current status of separately optimized and integrated VLBI analysis will be discussed.

Datum maintenance of the main Egyptian geodetic control networks by utilizing Precise Point Positioning "PPP" technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabah, Mostafa; Elmewafey, Mahmoud; Farahan, Magda H.

2016-06-01

A geodetic control network is the wire-frame or the skeleton on which continuous and consistent mapping, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and surveys are based. Traditionally, geodetic control points are established as permanent physical monuments placed in the ground and precisely marked, located, and documented. With the development of satellite surveying methods and their availability and high degree of accuracy, a geodetic control network could be established by using GNSS and referred to an international terrestrial reference frame used as a three-dimensional geocentric reference system for a country. Based on this concept, in 1992, the Egypt Survey Authority (ESA) established two networks, namely High Accuracy Reference Network (HARN) and the National Agricultural Cadastral Network (NACN). To transfer the International Terrestrial Reference Frame to the HARN, the HARN was connected with four IGS stations. The processing results were 1:10,000,000 (Order A) for HARN and 1:1,000,000 (Order B) for NACN relative network accuracy standard between stations defined in ITRF1994 Epoch1996. Since 1996, ESA did not perform any updating or maintaining works for these networks. To see how non-performing maintenance degrading the values of the HARN and NACN, the available HARN and NACN stations in the Nile Delta were observed. The Processing of the tested part was done by CSRS-PPP Service based on utilizing Precise Point Positioning "PPP" and Trimble Business Center "TBC". The study shows the feasibility of Precise Point Positioning in updating the absolute positioning of the HARN network and its role in updating the reference frame (ITRF). The study also confirmed the necessity of the absent role of datum maintenance of Egypt networks.

Atopic dermatitis and indoor use of energy sources in cooking and heating appliances

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) prevalence has considerably increased worldwide in recent years. Studying indoor environments is particularly relevant, especially in industrialised countries where many people spend 80% of their time at home, particularly children. This study is aimed to identify the potential association between AD and the energy source (biomass, gas and electricity) used for cooking and domestic heating in a Spanish schoolchildren population. Methods As part of the ISAAC (International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood) phase III study, a cross-sectional population-based survey was conducted with 21,355 6-to-7-year-old children from 8 Spanish ISAAC centres. AD prevalence, environmental risk factors and the use of domestic heating/cooking devices were assessed using the validated ISAAC questionnaire. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (cOR, aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained. A logistic regression analysis was performed (Chi-square test, p-value < 0.05). Results It was found that the use of biomass systems gave the highest cORs, but only electric cookers showed a significant cOR of 1.14 (95% CI: 1.01-1.27). When the geographical area and the mother’s educational level were included in the logistic model, the obtained aOR values differed moderately from the initial cORs. Electric heating was the only type which obtained a significant aOR (1.13; 95% CI: 1.00-1.27). Finally, the model with all selected confounding variables (sex, BMI, number of siblings, mother’s educational level, smoking habits of parents, truck traffic and geographical area), showed aOR values which were very similar to those obtained in the previous adjusted logistic analysis. None of the results was statistically significant, but the use of electric heating showed an aOR close to significance (1.14; 95% CI: 0.99-1.31). Conclusion In our study population, no statistically significant associations were found between the type of indoor energy sources used and the presence of AD. PMID:23088771

The diagnosis, burden and prognosis of dementia: A record-linkage cohort study in England.

PubMed

Pujades-Rodriguez, Mar; Assi, Valentina; Gonzalez-Izquierdo, Arturo; Wilkinson, Tim; Schnier, Christian; Sudlow, Cathie; Hemingway, Harry; Whiteley, William N

2018-01-01

Electronic health records (EHR) might be a useful resource to study the risk factors and clinical care of people with dementia. We sought to determine the diagnostic validity of dementia captured in linked EHR. A cohort of adults in linked primary care, hospital, disease registry and mortality records in England, [CALIBER (CArdiovascular disease research using LInked Bespoke studies and Electronic health Records)]. The proportion of individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, vascular and rare dementia in each data source was determined. A comparison was made of symptoms and care between people with dementia and age-, sex- and general practice-matched controls, using conditional logistic regression. The lifetime risk and prevalence of dementia and mortality rates in people with and without dementia were estimated with random-effects Poisson models. There were 47,386 people with dementia: 12,633 with Alzheimer's disease, 9540 with vascular and 1539 with rare dementia. Seventy-four percent of cases had corroborating evidence of dementia. People with dementia were more likely to live in a deprived area (conditional OR 1.26;95%CI:1.20-1.31 most vs least deprived), have documented memory impairment (cOR = 11.97;95%CI:11.24-12.75), falls (cOR = 2.36;95%CI:2.31-2.41), depression (cOR = 2.03; 95%CI:1.98-2.09) or anxiety (cOR = 1.27; 95%CI:1.23-1.32). The lifetime risk of dementia at age 65 was 9.2% (95%CI:9.0%-9.4%), in men and 14.9% (95%CI:14.7%-15.1%) in women. The population prevalence of recorded dementia increased from 0.3% in 2000 to 0.7% in 2010. A higher mortality rate was observed in people with than without dementia (IRR = 1.56;95%CI:1.54-1.58). Most people with a record of dementia in linked UK EHR had some corroborating evidence for diagnosis. The estimated 10-year risk of dementia was higher than published population-based estimations. EHR are therefore a promising source of data for dementia research.

Cortisol and interleukin-6 responses during intermittent exercise in two different hot environments with equivalent WBGT.

PubMed

Wright, Heather E; McLellan, Tom M; Stapleton, Jill M; Hardcastle, Stephen G; Kenny, Glen P

2012-01-01

Blood marker concentrations such as cortisol (COR) and interleukin (IL)-6 are commonly used to evaluate the physiological strain associated with work in the heat. It is unclear, however, if hot environments of an equivalent thermal stress, as defined by a similar wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), result in similar response patterns. This study examined markers of neuroendocrine (COR) and immune (IL-6) responses, as well as the cardiovascular and thermal responses, relative to changes in body heat content measured by whole-body direct calorimetry during work in two different hot environments with equivalent WBGT. Eight males performed a 2-hr heavy intermittent exercise protocol (six 15-min bouts of cycling at a constant rate of metabolic heat production (360W) interspersed by 5-min rest periods) in Hot/Dry (46°C, 10% relative humidity [RH]) and Warm/Humid (33°C, 60% RH) conditions (WBGT ∼ 29°C). Whole-body evaporative and dry heat exchange, change in body heat content (ΔH(b)), rectal temperature (T(re)), and heart rate were measured continuously. Venous blood was obtained at rest (PRE) and the end of each exercise bout for the measurement of changes in plasma volume (PV), plasma protein (an estimate of plasma water changes), COR, and IL-6. Ratings of perceived exertion and thermal sensation were measured during the last minute of each exercise bout. No differences existed for ΔH(b), heart rate, T(re),%ΔPV, plasma protein concentration, perceptual strain (thermal sensation, perceived exertion), and COR between the Hot/Dry and Warm/Humid conditions. IL-6 exhibited an interaction effect (p = 0.041), such that greater increases were observed in the Hot/Dry (Δ = 1.61 pg·mL(-1)) compared with the Warm/Humid (Δ = 0.64 pg·mL(-1)) environment. These findings indicate that work performed in two different hot environments with equivalent WBGT resulted in similar levels of thermal, cardiovascular, and perceptual strain, which support the use of the WBGT stress index. However, the greater IL-6 response in the Hot/Dry requires further research to elucidate the effects of different hot environments and work intensities.

Evaluation of an Integrated Telemonitoring Surveillance System in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease.

PubMed

Ammenwerth, E; Woess, S; Baumgartner, C; Fetz, B; van der Heidt, A; Kastner, P; Modre-Osprian, R; Welte, S; Poelzl, G

2015-01-01

Cardiovascular diseases are the most frequent cause of death in industrialized countries. Non-adherence with prescribed medication and recommended lifestyle changes significantly increases the risk of major cardiovascular events. The telemonitoring programme MyCor (Myokardinfarkt und Koronarstent Programm in Tirol) is a multi-modal intervention programme to improve lifestyle and medication management of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). It includes patient education, self-monitoring with goal-setting and feedback, and regular clinical visits. We evaluated the MyCor telemonitoring programme regarding technical feasibility, user acceptance, patient adherence, change in health status, and change in quality of life. A 4½-month study was conducted with two telemonitoring phases and one interim phase. The study comprised patient surveys, standardized assessment of quality of life using the MacNew questionnaire at study entry and after 4 and 18 weeks, analysis of adherence to medication and physical activity during the two telemonitoring phases, and analysis of reached goals regarding health conditions during the telemonitoring phases. Twenty-five patients (mean age: 63 years) participated in the study. Patients showed a high acceptance of the MyCor telemonitoring programme. Patients reported feelings of self-control, motivation for lifestyle changes, and improved quality of life. Adherence to daily measurements was high with 86% and 77% in the two telemonitoring phases. Adherence to medication was also high with up to 87% and 80%. Pre-defined goals for physical activity were reached in up to 86% and 73% of days, respectively. Quality of life improved from 5.5 at study entry to 6.3 at the end (p< 0.01; MacNew questionnaire). Reductions in blood pressure and heart rate or an improvement in reaching defined goals could not be observed. The MyCor telemonitoring programme Tirol for CHD patients has a high rate of acceptance among included patients. Critical evaluation revealed subjective benefits regarding quality of life and health status as well as high adherence rates to medication and lifestyle changes. Achieving long-term adherence and verifying clinical outcomes, however, remains an open issue. Our findings will promote further studies, addressing different strategies for an optimal mix of patient education, telemonitoring, feedback, and clinical follow-ups.

Streptococcus pyogenes strains in Sao Paulo, Brazil: molecular characterization as a basis for StreptInCor coverage capacity analysis.

PubMed

Freschi de Barros, Samar; De Amicis, Karine Marafigo; Alencar, Raquel; Smeesters, Pierre Robert; Trunkel, Ariel; Postól, Edilberto; Almeida Junior, João Nóbrega; Rossi, Flavia; Pignatari, Antonio Carlos Campos; Kalil, Jorge; Guilherme, Luiza

2015-08-05

Several human diseases are caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, ranging from common infections to autoimmunity. Characterization of the most prevalent strains worldwide is a useful tool for evaluating the coverage capacity of vaccines under development. In this study, a collection of S. pyogenes strains from Sao Paulo, Brazil, was analyzed to describe the diversity of strains and assess the vaccine coverage capacity of StreptInCor. Molecular epidemiology of S. pyogenes strains was performed by emm-genotyping the 229 isolates from different clinical sites, and PCR was used for superantigen profile analysis. The emm-pattern and tissue tropism for these M types were also predicted and compared based on the emm-cluster classification. The strains were fit into 12 different emm-clusters, revealing a diverse phylogenetic origin and, consequently, different mechanisms of infection and escape of the host immune system. Forty-eight emm-types were distinguished in 229 samples, and the 10 most frequently observed types accounted for 69 % of all isolates, indicating a diverse profile of circulating strains comparable to other countries under development. A similar proportion of E and A-C emm-patterns were observed, whereas pattern D was less frequent, indicating that the strains of this collection primarily had a tissue tropism for the throat. In silico analysis of the coverage capacity of StreptInCor, an M protein-conserved regionally based vaccine candidate developed by our group, had a range of 94.5 % to 59.7 %, with a mean of 71.0 % identity between the vaccine antigen and the predicted amino acid sequence of the emm-types included here. This is the first report of S. pyogenes strain characterization in Sao Paulo, one of the largest cities in the world; thus, the strain panel described here is a representative sample for vaccine coverage capacity analysis. Our results enabled evaluation of StreptInCor candidate vaccine coverage capacity against diverse M-types, indicating that the vaccine candidate likely would induce protection against the diverse strains worldwide.

Validity, Reliability, and Inertia of Four Different Temperature Capsule Systems.

PubMed

Bongers, Coen C W G; Daanen, Hein A M; Bogerd, Cornelis P; Hopman, Maria T E; Eijsvogels, Thijs M H

2018-01-01

Telemetric temperature capsule systems are wireless, relatively noninvasive, and easily applicable in field conditions and have therefore great advantages for monitoring core body temperature. However, the accuracy and responsiveness of available capsule systems have not been compared previously. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the validity, reliability, and inertia characteristics of four ingestible temperature capsule systems (i.e., CorTemp, e-Celsius, myTemp, and VitalSense). Ten temperature capsules were examined for each system in a temperature-controlled water bath during three trials. The water bath temperature gradually increased from 33°C to 44°C in trials 1 and 2 to assess the validity and reliability, and from 36°C to 42°C in trial 3 to assess the inertia characteristics of the temperature capsules. A systematic difference between capsule and water bath temperature was found for CorTemp (0.077°C ± 0.040°C), e-Celsius (-0.081°C ± 0.055°C), myTemp (-0.003°C ± 0.006°C), and VitalSense (-0.017°C ± 0.023°C; P < 0.010), with the lowest bias for the myTemp system (P < 0.001). A systematic difference was found between trial 1 and trial 2 for CorTemp (0.017°C ± 0.083°C; P = 0.030) and e-Celsius (-0.007°C ± 0.033°C; P = 0.019), whereas temperature values of myTemp (0.001°C ± 0.008°C) and VitalSense (0.002°C ± 0.014°C) did not differ (P > 0.05). Comparable inertia characteristics were found for CorTemp (25 ± 4 s), e-Celsius (21 ± 13 s), and myTemp (19 ± 2 s), whereas the VitalSense system responded more slowly (39 ± 6 s) to changes in water bath temperature (P < 0.001). Although differences in temperature and inertia were observed between capsule systems, an excellent validity, test-retest reliability, and inertia was found for each system between 36°C and 44°C after removal of outliers.

Elevated Atmospheric CO2 and Strain of Rhizobium Alter Freezing Tolerance and Cold-induced Molecular Changes in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

PubMed Central

Bertrand, Annick; Prévost, Danielle; Bigras, Francine J.; Castonguay, Yves

2007-01-01

Background and Aims The objective of the study was to assess the impact of elevated CO2 in interaction with rhizobial strains on freezing tolerance and cold-induced molecular changes in alfalfa. Methods Alfalfa inoculated with two different strains of rhizobium (A2 and NRG34) was grown and cold acclimated (2 weeks at 2 °C) under either 400 (ambient) or 800 µmol mol−1 (elevated) CO2. Key Results Plants acclimated under 400 µmol mol−1 CO2 were more freezing tolerant than those maintained under 800 µmol mol−1. Cryoprotective sugars typically linked with the acquisition of freezing tolerance such as sucrose, stachyose and raffinose increased in roots in response to low temperature but did not differ between CO2 treatments. Similarly high CO2 did not alter the expression of many cold-regulated (COR) genes although it significantly increased the level of transcripts encoding a COR gene homologous to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase (GAPDH). A significant effect of rhizobial strain was observed on both freezing tolerance and gene expression. Plants of alfalfa inoculated with strain A2 were more freezing tolerant than those inoculated with strain NRG34. Transcripts of COR genes homologous to a pathogenesis-related protein (PR-10) and to a nuclear-targeted protein were markedly enhanced in roots of alfalfa inoculated with strain A2 as compared with strain NRG34. Transcripts encoding the vegetative storage proteins (VSPs) β-amylase and chitinase were more abundant in roots of non-acclimated plants inoculated with strain NRG34 than with strain A2. Conclusions Taken together, the results suggest that elevated CO2 stimulates plant growth and reduces freezing tolerance. The acquisition of cold tolerance is also influenced by the rhizobial strain, as indicated by lower levels of expression of COR genes and sustained accumulation of VSP-encoding transcripts in alfalfa inoculated with strain NRG34 as compared with strain A2. PMID:17218341

Multivariate analysis applied to monthly rainfall over Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brito, Thábata T.; Oliveira-Júnior, José F.; Lyra, Gustavo B.; Gois, Givanildo; Zeri, Marcelo

2017-10-01

Spatial and temporal patterns of rainfall were identified over the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeast Brazil. The proximity to the coast and the complex topography create great diversity of rainfall over space and time. The dataset consisted of time series (1967-2013) of monthly rainfall over 100 meteorological stations. Clustering analysis made it possible to divide the stations into six groups (G1, G2, G3, G4, G5 and G6) with similar rainfall spatio-temporal patterns. A linear regression model was applied to a time series and a reference. The reference series was calculated from the average rainfall within a group, using nearby stations with higher correlation (Pearson). Based on t-test ( p < 0.05) all stations had a linear spatiotemporal trend. According to the clustering analysis, the first group (G1) contains stations located over the coastal lowlands and also over the ocean facing area of Serra do Mar (Sea ridge), a 1500 km long mountain range over the coastal Southeastern Brazil. The second group (G2) contains stations over all the state, from Serra da Mantiqueira (Mantiqueira Mountains) and Costa Verde (Green coast), to the south, up to stations in the Northern parts of the state. Group 3 (G3) contains stations in the highlands over the state (Serrana region), while group 4 (G4) has stations over the northern areas and the continent-facing side of Serra do Mar. The last two groups were formed with stations around Paraíba River (G5) and the metropolitan area of the city of Rio de Janeiro (G6). The driest months in all regions were June, July and August, while November, December and January were the rainiest months. Sharp transitions occurred when considering monthly accumulated rainfall: from January to February, and from February to March, likely associated with episodes of "veranicos", i.e., periods of 4-15 days of duration with no rainfall.

Terminal Forecast Reference Notebook, Camp Casey, Korea.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

AGL) immediately west of the runway. b. The instrument shelter, with psychrometer , is just outside of building T-2651. It is much too close to the...EQUALS 100 FEET A-6 b. The instrument shelter with psychrometer is 60 feet northwest of the weather station. c. The rain gauge, ML-17, is adjacent to... psychrometer , is 180 feet south of the weather station just east of the runway. A-7 X I x x A IA. WEATHER x STATION RAIN GAUGE SHLTOWER SE IN STRUMENT

Reference earth orbital research and applications investigations (blue book). Volume 1: Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The criteria, guidelines, and an organized approach for use in the space station and space shuttle program definition phase are presented. Subjects discussed are: (1) background information and evolution of the studies, (2) definition of terms used, (3) concepts of the space shuttle, space station, experiment modules, shuttle-sortie operations and modular space station, and (4) summary of functional program element (FPE) requirements. Diagrams of the various configurations and the experimental equipment to be installed in the structures are included.

Validation of MODIS integrated water vapor product against reference GPS data at the Iberian Peninsula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaquero-Martínez, Javier; Antón, Manuel; Ortiz de Galisteo, José Pablo; Cachorro, Victoria E.; Costa, Maria João; Román, Roberto; Bennouna, Yasmine S.

2017-12-01

In this work, the water vapor product from MODIS (MODerate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) instrument, on-board Aqua and Terra satellites, is compared against GPS water vapor data from 21 stations in the Iberian Peninsula as reference. GPS water vapor data is obtained from ground-based receiver stations which measure the delay caused by water vapor in the GPS microwave signals. The study period extends from 2007 until 2012. Regression analysis in every GPS station show that MODIS overestimates low integrated water vapor (IWV) data and tends to underestimate high IWV data. R2 shows a fair agreement, between 0.38 and 0.71. Inter-quartile range (IQR) in every station is around 30-45%. The dependence on several parameters was also analyzed. IWV dependence showed that low IWV are highly overestimated by MODIS, with high IQR (low precision), sharply decreasing as IWV increases. Regarding dependence on solar zenith angle (SZA), performance of MODIS IWV data decreases between 50° and 90°, while night-time MODIS data (infrared) are quite stable. The seasonal cycles of IWV and SZA cause a seasonal dependence on MODIS performance. In summer and winter, MODIS IWV tends to overestimate the reference IWV value, while in spring and autumn the tendency is to underestimate. Low IWV from coastal stations is highly overestimated (∼60%) and quite imprecise (IQR around 60%). On the contrary, high IWV data show very little dependence along seasons. Cloud-fraction (CF) dependence was also studied, showing that clouds display a negligible impact on IWV over/underestimation. However, IQR increases with CF, except in night-time satellite values, which are quite stable.

CIELO-A GIS integrated model for climatic and water balance simulation in islands environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azevedo, E. B.; Pereira, L. S.

2003-04-01

The model CIELO (acronym for "Clima Insular à Escala Local") is a physically based model that simulates the climatic variables in an island using data from a single synoptic reference meteorological station. The reference station "knows" its position in the orographic and dynamic regime context. The domain of computation is a GIS raster grid parameterised with a digital elevation model (DEM). The grid is oriented following the direction of the air masses circulation through a specific algorithm named rotational terrain model (RTM). The model consists of two main sub-models. One, relative to the advective component simulation, assumes the Foehn effect to reproduce the dynamic and thermodynamic processes occurring when an air mass moves through the island orographic obstacle. This makes possible to simulate the air temperature, air humidity, cloudiness and precipitation as influenced by the orography along the air displacement. The second concerns the radiative component as affected by the clouds of orographic origin and by the shadow produced by the relief. The initial state parameters are computed starting from the reference meteorological station across the DEM transept until the sea level at the windward side. Then, starting from the sea level, the model computes the local scale meteorological parameters according to the direction of the air displacement, which is adjusted with the RTM. The air pressure, temperature and humidity are directly calculated for each cell in the computational grid, while several algorithms are used to compute the cloudiness, net radiation, evapotranspiration, and precipitation. The model presented in this paper has been calibrated and validated using data from some meteorological stations and a larger number of rainfall stations located at various elevations in the Azores Islands.

Global cross-station assessment of neuro-fuzzy models for estimating daily reference evapotranspiration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiri, Jalal; Nazemi, Amir Hossein; Sadraddini, Ali Ashraf; Landeras, Gorka; Kisi, Ozgur; Fard, Ahmad Fakheri; Marti, Pau

2013-02-01

SummaryAccurate estimation of reference evapotranspiration is important for irrigation scheduling, water resources management and planning and other agricultural water management issues. In the present paper, the capabilities of generalized neuro-fuzzy models were evaluated for estimating reference evapotranspiration using two separate sets of weather data from humid and non-humid regions of Spain and Iran. In this way, the data from some weather stations in the Basque Country and Valencia region (Spain) were used for training the neuro-fuzzy models [in humid and non-humid regions, respectively] and subsequently, the data from these regions were pooled to evaluate the generalization capability of a general neuro-fuzzy model in humid and non-humid regions. The developed models were tested in stations of Iran, located in humid and non-humid regions. The obtained results showed the capabilities of generalized neuro-fuzzy model in estimating reference evapotranspiration in different climatic zones. Global GNF models calibrated using both non-humid and humid data were found to successfully estimate ET0 in both non-humid and humid regions of Iran (the lowest MAE values are about 0.23 mm for non-humid Iranian regions and 0.12 mm for humid regions). non-humid GNF models calibrated using non-humid data performed much better than the humid GNF models calibrated using humid data in non-humid region while the humid GNF model gave better estimates in humid region.

The Role of Anchor Stations in the Validation of Earth Observation Satellite Data and Products. The Valencia and the Alacant Anchor Stations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lopez-Baeza, Ernesto; Geraldo Ferreira, A.; Saleh-Contell, Kauzar

Space technology facilitates humanity and science with a global revolutionary view of the Earth through the acquisition of Earth Observation satellite data. Satellites capture information over different spatial and temporal scales and assist in understanding natural climate processes and in detecting and explaining climate change. Accurate Earth Observation data is needed to describe climate processes by improving the parameterisations of different climate elements. Algorithms to produce geophysical parameters from raw satellite observations should go through selection processes or participate in inter-comparison programmes to ensure performance reliability. Geophysical parameter datasets, obtained from satellite observations, should pass a quality control before they are accepted in global databases for impact, diagnostic or sensitivity studies. Calibration and Validation, or simply "Cal/Val", is the activity that endeavours to ensure that remote sensing products are highly consistent and reproducible. This is an evolving scientific activity that is becoming increasingly important as more long-term studies on global change are undertaken, and new satellite missions are launched. Calibration is the process of quantitatively defining the system responses to known, controlled signal inputs. Validation refers to the process of assessing, by independent means, the quality of the data products derived from the system outputs. These definitions are generally accepted and most often used in the remote sensing context to refer specifically and respectively to sensor radiometric calibration and geophysical parameter validation. Anchor Stations are carefully selected locations at which instruments measure quantities that are needed to run, calibrate or validate models and algorithms. These are needed to quanti-tatively evaluate satellite data and convert it into geophysical information. The instruments collect measurements of basic quantities over a long timescale. Measurements are made of meteorological and hydrological background data, and of quantities not readily assessed at operational stations. Anchor Stations also offer infrastructure to undertake validation experi-ments. These are more detailed measurements over shorter intensive observation periods. The Valencia Anchor Station is showing its capabilities and conditions as a reference validation site in the framework of low spatial resolution remote sensing missions such as CERES, GERB and SMOS. The Alacant Anchor Station is a reference site in studies on the interactions between desertification and climate. This paper presents the activities so far carried out at both Anchor Stations, the precise and detailed ground and aircraft experiments carefully designed to develop a specific methodology to validate low spatial resolution satellite data and products, and the knowledge exchange currently being exercised between the University of Valencia, Spain, and FUNCEME, Brazil, in common objectives of mutual interest.

Spatial interpolation of daily evapotranspiration data in the Texas High Plains

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The Texas High Plains Evapotranspiration (ET) Network collects meteorological data from grass-referenced weather stations at hourly intervals and estimates hourly and daily reference ET using the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Standardized Reference ET equation. Producers in the Texas Hi...

Statistical analysis of electromagnetic radiation measurements in the vicinity of indoor microcell GSM/UMTS base stations in Serbia.

PubMed

Koprivica, Mladen; Petrić, Majda; Nešković, Nataša; Nešković, Aleksandar

2016-01-01

To determine the level of radiofrequency radiation generated by base stations of Global System for Mobile Communications and Universal Mobile Telecommunication System, extensive electromagnetic field strength measurements were carried out in the vicinity of 664 base station locations. These were classified into three categories: indoor, masts, and locations with installations on buildings. Although microcell base stations with antennas installed indoors typically emit less power than outdoor macrocell base stations, the fact that people can be found close to antennas requires exposure originating from these base stations to be carefully considered. Measurement results showed that maximum recorded value of electric field strength exceeded International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection reference levels at 7% of indoor base station locations. At the same time, this percentage was much lower in the case of masts and installations on buildings (0% and 2.5%, respectively). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The 2006 Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Range Reference Atmosphere Model Validation Study and Sensitivity Analysis to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Space Shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decker, Ryan K.; Burns, Lee; Merry, Carl; Harrington, Brian

2008-01-01

Atmospheric parameters are essential in assessing the flight performance of aerospace vehicles. The effects of the Earth's atmosphere on aerospace vehicles influence various aspects of the vehicle during ascent ranging from its flight trajectory to the structural dynamics and aerodynamic heatmg on the vehicle. Atmospheric databases charactenzing the wind and thermodynamic environments, known as Range Reference Atmospheres (RRA), have been developed at space launch ranges by a governmental interagency working group for use by aerospace vehicle programs. The National Aeronantics and Space Administration's (NASA) Space Shuttle Program (SSP), which launches from Kennedy Space Center, utilizes atmosphenc statistics derived from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Range Reference Atmosphere (CCAFS RRA) database to evaluate environmental constraints on various aspects of the vehlcle during ascent.

New International Agreements About Space Techniques Among Argentina, China and France

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacheco, A. M.; Podestá, R.; Actis, E.; Adarvez, S.; Quinteros, J.; Li, J.; Saunier, J.; Podestá, F.; Ramos, F.; Aguilera, J.; Sosa, G.; Hauser, D.

2018-01-01

The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems (IERS) is in charge of defining and materializing celestial reference systems (ICRS - ICRF) and terrestrial reference systems (ITRS - ITRF). In order to perform this task it uses data from the following techniques: Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI), Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Doppler Orbitography and Radiopositioning Integrated by Satellite (DORIS). Nowadays, the Observatorio Astronómico Félix Aguilar (OAFA) has two instruments with these advanced techniques: SLR and a permanent GNSS station. In the nearby future a 40 m diameter radio telescope will be available that will be operated in VLBI mode along with a DORIS buoy which will be co-localized with a SLR telescope and GNSS antennas. In this way OAFA will become a zero station, first class, of the ITRF 2014 frame.

Dignital Biological Converter

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-03

DARPA Contracting Officer: Michael Blackstone Submitted by: HEATHER GOUVIS Synthetic Genomics, Inc. 11149 NORTH TORREY PINES RD LA JOLLA, CA...Contracting Officer Representative (COR) Email: salit@nist.gov Michael Blackstone DARPA Contracting Officer Michael.Blackstone@darpa.mil DARPA

10. Historic American Buildings Survey Allen L. Hubbard, Photographer December ...

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

10. Historic American Buildings Survey Allen L. Hubbard, Photographer December 1, 1936 (Northwest cor. room 2nd floor) East Wall - Fort Western, Main Building, Bowman Street, Augusta, Kennebec County, ME

Social adjustment and competence 35 years after onset of childhood epilepsy: a prospective controlled study.

PubMed

Jalava, M; Sillanpää, M; Camfield, C; Camfield, P

1997-06-01

To study the effect of childhood-onset epilepsy without other neurologic deficit on adult social adjustment and competence. Social competence was studied in a prospective, population-based cohort of childhood-onset epilepsy after a mean follow-up of 35 years. One hundred patients (60% of the total cohort) had no other neurologic problems ("epilepsy only"), and for each patient, two matched controls, a "random" control and an "employee" control were chosen. Good social outcome was significantly reduced in the "epilepsy only" cohort compared with random controls: education [cumulative odds ratio (COR), 2.4; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.4-4.1]; employability (COR, 7.3; 95% CI, 2.7-20.0); and marriage rate (COR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.9-7.3). The patients with epilepsy rated their own ability to control their lives as "poor or missing" four times more frequently than the employee controls. Patients receiving antiepileptic polytherapy, but not monotherapy, were significantly less satisfied with their present life (OR, 6.7; 95% CI, 1.9-24.1) and felt their general health was significantly poorer (OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.2-21.3) than did the employee controls. Furthermore, patients with continuing seizures were significantly less satisfied with their present life (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.1-15.1) than were employee controls. Many patients with "epilepsy only" beginning in childhood have persistent and significant social-adjustment and competence problems in adulthood.

Development of the cat-owner relationship scale (CORS).

PubMed

Howell, Tiffani J; Bowen, Jonathan; Fatjó, Jaume; Calvo, Paula; Holloway, Anna; Bennett, Pauleen C

2017-08-01

Characteristics of the human-animal bond can be influenced by both owner-related and pet-related factors, which likely differ between species. Three studies adapted the Monash Dog-Owner Relationship Scale (MDORS) to permit assessment of human-cat interactions as perceived by the cat's owner. In Study 1293 female cat owners completed a modified version of the MDORS, where 'dog' was replaced with 'cat' for all items. Responses were compared with a matched sample of female dog owners. A partial least squares discriminant analysis revealed systematic differences between cat and dog owners in the Dog (Cat)-Owner Interaction subscale (MDORS subscale 1), but not for Perceived Emotional Closeness or Perceived Costs (Subscales 2 and 3). Study 2 involved analysis of free-text descriptions of cat-owner interactions provided by 61 female cat owners. Text mining identified key words which were used to create additional questions for a new Cat-Owner Interaction subscale. In Study 3, the resulting cat-owner relationship scale (CORS) was tested in a group of 570 cat owners. The main psychometric properties of the scale, including internal consistency and factor structure, were evaluated. We propose that this scale can be used to accurately assess owner perceptions of their relationship with their cat. A modified scale, combining items from the CORS and MDORS (a C/DORS), is also provided for when researchers would find it desirable to compare human-cat and human-dog interactions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exploratory Investigation of Failure Mechanisms in Transition Regions between Solid Laminates and X-cor(registered tm) Truss Sandwich

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

OBrien, T. Kevin; Paris, Isabelle L.

2004-01-01

Small sub-component specimens consisting of solid laminates at the ends that transition to X-cor(R) truss sandwich in the center, were tested in a combination of three point bending, uni-axial tension, and combined tension and bending. The failure process in the transition region was documented for each loading using digital video and high-resolution cameras. For the 3-point bending tests, most of the deformation occurred in the solid laminate regions on either end of the specimen. Some pin debonding from the skin of the X-cor(R) truss sandwich was observed in the transition region and was accompanied by audible "pings" throughout the loading. Tension loaded specimens failed in the sandwich skin in the middle of the gage length, accompanied by separation of the sandwich core from the back skin and by delamination between the top skin and bottom skin at the transition region. The pinging associated with pin debonding occurred as the load was increased. However, the frequency of the pinging exceeded any visual observations of pin debonding in the video of the transition region. For specimens tested in combined tension and bending, the greatest amount of pinging occurred during initial application of the axial load. High-resolution images in the transition region indicated that the pinging corresponded to pins debonding and buckling due to the through-thickness Poisson contraction of the specimen. This buckling continued to a much smaller extent as the transverse load was applied.

The Myxococcus xanthus two-component system CorSR regulates expression of a gene cluster involved in maintaining copper tolerance during growth and development.

PubMed

Sánchez-Sutil, María Celestina; Pérez, Juana; Gómez-Santos, Nuria; Shimkets, Lawrence J; Moraleda-Muñoz, Aurelio; Muñoz-Dorado, José

2013-01-01

Myxococcus xanthus is a soil-dwelling member of the δ-Proteobacteria that exhibits a complex developmental cycle upon starvation. Development comprises aggregation and differentiation into environmentally resistant myxospores in an environment that includes fluctuations in metal ion concentrations. While copper is essential for M. xanthus cells because several housekeeping enzymes use it as a cofactor, high copper concentrations are toxic. These opposing effects force cells to maintain a tight copper homeostasis. A plethora of paralogous genes involved in copper detoxification, all of which are differentially regulated, have been reported in M. xanthus. The use of in-frame deletion mutants and fusions with the reporter gene lacZ has allowed the identification of a two-component system, CorSR, that modulates the expression of an operon termed curA consisting of nine genes whose expression slowly increases after metal addition, reaching a plateau. Transcriptional regulation of this operon is complex because transcription can be initiated at different promoters and by different types of regulators. These genes confer copper tolerance during growth and development. Copper induces carotenoid production in a ΔcorSR mutant at lower concentrations than with the wild-type strain due to lack of expression of a gene product resembling subunit III of cbb3-type cytochrome c oxidase. This data may explain why copper induces carotenoid biosynthesis at suboptimal rather than optimal growth conditions in wild-type strains.