ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Broderick, Patricia; Raymond, Allen
1994-01-01
Reviews nine teaching aids: (1) "Our World" (Troll); (2) "Comprehensive School Health Education" (Meeks Heit Publishing); (3) "America at School" (Pleasant Company); (4) "Tomie, Tomie, Tomie" (Val Hornburg); (5) "Frog Pondering" (Frog Publications); (6) "TalentEd" (Teacher Ideas Press); (7) "Scholastic Voyages of Discovery" (Scholastic); (8) "Nose…
Zhou, Chongchong; Peng, Bibo; Li, Wei; Zhong, Shiming; Ou, Jikun; Chen, Runjing; Zhao, Xinglong
2017-07-27
China is a country of vast territory with complicated geographical environment and climate conditions. With the rapid progress of the Chinese BeiDou satellite navigation system (BDS); more accurate tropospheric models must be applied to improve the accuracy of navigation and positioning. Based on the formula of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models; this study develops two single-site tropospheric models (named SAAS_S and CH_S models) for the Chinese region using radiosonde data from 2005 to 2012. We assess the two single-site tropospheric models with radiosonde data for 2013 and zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) data from four International GNSS Service (IGS) stations and compare them to the results of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models. The experimental results show that: the mean accuracy of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.19 cm; RMS: 3.19 cm) at all radiosonde stations is superior to those of the Saastamoinen (bias: 0.62 cm; RMS: 3.62 cm) and CH_S (bias: -0.05 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. In most Chinese regions; the RMS values of the SAAS_S and CH_S models are about 0.51~2.12 cm smaller than those of their corresponding source models. The SAAS_S model exhibits a clear improvement in the accuracy over the Saastamoinen model in low latitude regions. When the SAAS_S model is replaced by the SAAS model in the positioning of GNSS; the mean accuracy of vertical direction in the China region can be improved by 1.12~1.55 cm and the accuracy of vertical direction in low latitude areas can be improved by 1.33~7.63 cm. The residuals of the SAAS_S model are closer to a normal distribution compared to those of the Saastamoinen model. Single-site tropospheric models based on the short period of the most recent data (for example 2 years) can also achieve a satisfactory accuracy. The average performance of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.83 cm; RMS: 3.24 cm) at four IGS stations is superior to that of the Saastamoinen (bias: -0.86 cm; RMS: 3.59 cm) and CH_S (bias: 0.45 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models.
Zhou, Chongchong; Peng, Bibo; Li, Wei; Zhong, Shiming; Ou, Jikun; Chen, Runjing; Zhao, Xinglong
2017-01-01
China is a country of vast territory with complicated geographical environment and climate conditions. With the rapid progress of the Chinese BeiDou satellite navigation system (BDS); more accurate tropospheric models must be applied to improve the accuracy of navigation and positioning. Based on the formula of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models; this study develops two single-site tropospheric models (named SAAS_S and CH_S models) for the Chinese region using radiosonde data from 2005 to 2012. We assess the two single-site tropospheric models with radiosonde data for 2013 and zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) data from four International GNSS Service (IGS) stations and compare them to the results of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models. The experimental results show that: the mean accuracy of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.19 cm; RMS: 3.19 cm) at all radiosonde stations is superior to those of the Saastamoinen (bias: 0.62 cm; RMS: 3.62 cm) and CH_S (bias: −0.05 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. In most Chinese regions; the RMS values of the SAAS_S and CH_S models are about 0.51~2.12 cm smaller than those of their corresponding source models. The SAAS_S model exhibits a clear improvement in the accuracy over the Saastamoinen model in low latitude regions. When the SAAS_S model is replaced by the SAAS model in the positioning of GNSS; the mean accuracy of vertical direction in the China region can be improved by 1.12~1.55 cm and the accuracy of vertical direction in low latitude areas can be improved by 1.33~7.63 cm. The residuals of the SAAS_S model are closer to a normal distribution compared to those of the Saastamoinen model. Single-site tropospheric models based on the short period of the most recent data (for example 2 years) can also achieve a satisfactory accuracy. The average performance of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.83 cm; RMS: 3.24 cm) at four IGS stations is superior to that of the Saastamoinen (bias: −0.86 cm; RMS: 3.59 cm) and CH_S (bias: 0.45 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. PMID:28749429
VizieR Online Data Catalog: Identifications of Sonneberg variables (Kinnunen+, 1999-2000)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kinnunen, T.; Skiff, B. A.
2002-09-01
The list below is a continuation of a series providing accurate positions and identifications for variables appearing on the MVS charts (Hoffmeister, 1957, Mitt. Verdander. Sterne, No. 245). The variables here were first described by Hoffmeister (1949, Astron. Abh. Ergaenzungshefte z.d. Astron. Nach., 12, no. 1, A3) in the difficult-to-find ``Ergaenzungshefte'' to the Astronomische Nachrichten, and are the first group from a collection of some 1440 variables from this publication. Details about the identification procedure and table layout are contained in the first report of our series (Kinnunen & Skiff, 2000IBVS.4862....1K). We are grateful to librarians Antoinette Beiser (Lowell) and Brenda Corbin (U. S. Naval Observatory, Washington) for providing a photocopy of the Hoffmeister survey; ``bibliothecaire extraordinaire'' Suzanne Laloe (Obs. Paris-Meudon) advised on how this obscure journal should be cited. (3 data files).
Hutchins, Tiffany L; Prelock, Patricia A; Bonazinga, Laura
2012-03-01
Two studies examined the psychometric properties of the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI). In Study One, 135 caregivers completed the ToMI for children (ages 3 through 17) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Findings revealed excellent test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Principle Components Analysis revealed three subscales related to the complexity of ToM understanding. In Study Two, data were collected for 124 typically developing children (2 through 12 years). Findings again revealed excellent test-retest and internal consistency. The ToMI distinguished groups by age (younger vs. older children) and developmental status (typically developing vs. ASD), and predicted child performance on a ToM task battery. Utility of the ToMI, study limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hutchins, Tiffany L.; Prelock, Patricia A.; Bonazinga, Laura
2012-01-01
Two studies examined the psychometric properties of the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI). In Study One, 135 caregivers completed the ToMI for children (ages 3 through 17) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Findings revealed excellent test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Principle Components Analysis revealed three subscales related…
The effects of atmospheric refraction on the accuracy of laser ranging systems
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Zanter, D. L.; Gardner, C. S.; Rao, N. N.
1976-01-01
Correction formulas derived by Saastamoinen and Marini, and the ray traces through the refractivity profiles all assume a spherically symmetric refractivity profile. The errors introduced by this assumption were investigated by ray tracing through three-dimensional profiles. The results of this investigation indicate that the difference between ray traces through the spherically symmetric and three-dimensional profiles is approximately three centimeters at 10 deg and decreases to less than one half of a centimeter at 80 deg. If the accuracy desired in future laser ranging systems is less than a few centimeters, Saastamoinen and Marini's formulas must be altered to account for the fact that the refractivity profile is not spherically symmetric.
On the Wing of a Whitebird: A Tomie dePaola Resource Book
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hornburg, Val
2005-01-01
This book provides literacy ideas for many of the books Tomie dePaola has illustrated and/or written. Ideas for introducing each book are presented, as are comprehension questions. Ideas for making connections through other curriculum areas, including writing, art, mathematics, science, social studies and drama, are included as well.
Accuracy Assessment of the Precise Point Positioning for Different Troposphere Models
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Oguz Selbesoglu, Mahmut; Gurturk, Mert; Soycan, Metin
2016-04-01
This study investigates the accuracy and repeatability of PPP technique at different latitudes by using different troposphere delay models. Nine IGS stations were selected between 00-800 latitudes at northern hemisphere and southern hemisphere. Coordinates were obtained for 7 days at 1 hour intervals in summer and winter. At first, the coordinates were estimated by using Niell troposphere delay model with and without including north and east gradients in order to investigate the contribution of troposphere delay gradients to the positioning . Secondly, Saastamoinen model was used to eliminate troposphere path delays by using standart atmosphere parameters were extrapolated for all station levels. Finally, coordinates were estimated by using RTCA-MOPS empirical troposphere delay model. Results demonstrate that Niell troposphere delay model with horizontal gradients has better mean values of rms errors 0.09 % and 65 % than the Niell troposphere model without horizontal gradients and RTCA-MOPS model, respectively. Saastamoinen model mean values of rms errors were obtained approximately 4 times bigger than the Niell troposphere delay model with horizontal gradients.
Bechi, M; Bosia, M; Spangaro, M; Buonocore, M; Cocchi, F; Pigoni, A; Piantanida, M; Guglielmino, C; Bianchi, L; Smeraldi, E; Cavallaro, R
2015-11-01
Neurocognitive and social cognitive impairments represent important treatment targets in schizophrenia, as they are significant predictors of functional outcome. Different rehabilitative interventions have recently been developed, addressing both cognitive and psychosocial domains. Although promising, results are still heterogeneous and predictors of treatment outcome are not yet identified. In this study we evaluated the efficacy of two newly developed social cognitive interventions, respectively based on the use of videotaped material and comic strips, combined with domain-specific Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT). We also analysed possible predictors of training outcome, including basal neurocognitive performance, the degree of cognitive improvement after CRT and psychopathological variables. Seventy-five patients with schizophrenia treated with CRT, were randomly assigned to: social cognitive training (SCT) group, Theory of Mind Intervention (ToMI) group, and active control group (ACG). ANOVAs showed that SCT and ToMI groups improved significantly in ToM measures, whereas the ACG did not. We reported no influences of neuropsychological measures and improvement after CRT on changes in ToM. Both paranoid and non-paranoid subjects improved significantly after ToMI and SCT, without differences between groups, despite the better performance in basal ToM found among paranoid patients. In the ACG only non-paranoid patients showed an improvement in non-verbal ToM. Results showed that both ToMI and SCT are effective in improving ToM in schizophrenia with no influence of neuropsychological domains. Our data also suggest that paranoid symptoms may discriminate between different types of ToM difficulties in schizophrenia.
Wang, Miaomiao; Li, Bofeng
2016-01-01
An empirical tropospheric delay model, together with a mapping function, is commonly used to correct the tropospheric errors in global navigation satellite system (GNSS) processing. As is well-known, the accuracy of tropospheric delay models relies mainly on the correction efficiency for tropospheric wet delays. In this paper, we evaluate the accuracy of three tropospheric delay models, together with five mapping functions in wet delays calculation. The evaluations are conducted by comparing their slant wet delays with those measured by water vapor radiometer based on its satellite-tracking function (collected data with large liquid water path is removed). For all 15 combinations of three tropospheric models and five mapping functions, their accuracies as a function of elevation are statistically analyzed by using nine-day data in two scenarios, with and without meteorological data. The results show that (1) no matter with or without meteorological data, there is no practical difference between mapping functions, i.e., Chao, Ifadis, Vienna Mapping Function 1 (VMF1), Niell Mapping Function (NMF), and MTT Mapping Function (MTT); (2) without meteorological data, the UNB3 is much better than Saastamoinen and Hopfield models, while the Saastamoinen model performed slightly better than the Hopfield model; (3) with meteorological data, the accuracies of all three tropospheric delay models are improved to be comparable, especially for lower elevations. In addition, the kinematic precise point positioning where no parameter is set up for tropospheric delay modification is conducted to further evaluate the performance of tropospheric delay models in positioning accuracy. It is shown that the UNB3 model is best and can achieve about 10 cm accuracy for the N and E coordinate component while 20 cm accuracy for the U coordinate component no matter the meteorological data is available or not. This accuracy can be obtained by the Saastamoinen model only when meteorological data is available, and degraded to 46 cm for the U component if the meteorological data is not available. PMID:26848662
Analysis of zenith tropospheric delay in tropical latitudes
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zablotskyj, Fedir; Zablotska, Alexandra
2010-05-01
The paper studies some peculiarities of the nature of zenith tropospheric delay in tropical latitudes. There are shown the values of dry and wet components of zenith tropospheric delay obtained by an integration of the radiosonde data at 9 stations: Guam, Seyshelles, Singapore, Pago Pago, Hilo, Koror, San Cristobal, San Juan and Belem. There were made 350 atmospheric models for the period from 11th to 20th of January, April, July and October 2008 at 0h and 12h UT (Universal Time). The quantities of the dry dd(aer) and wet dw(aer) components of zenith tropospheric delay were determined by means of the integration for each atmospheric model. Then the quantities of the dry dd(SA), dd(HO) and wet dw(SA), dw(HO) components of zenith tropospheric delay (Saastamoinen and Hopfield analytical models) were calculated by the surface values of the pressure P0, temperature t0, relative air humidity U0 on the height H0 and by the geographic latitude φ. It must be point out the following from the analysis of the averaged quantities and differences δdd(SA), δdd(HO), δdw(SA), δdw(HO) between the correspondent components of zenith tropospheric delay obtained by the radiosonde data and by the analytical models: zenith tropospheric delay obtained by the radiosonde data amounts to considerably larger value in the equatorial zone, especially, at the expense of the wet component, in contrast to high and middle latitudes. Thus, the dry component of zenith tropospheric delay is equal at the average 2290 mm and the wet component is 290 mm; by the results of the analysis of Saastamoinen and Hopfield models the dry component differences δdd(SA) and δdd(HO) are negative in all cases and average -20 mm. It is not typical neither for high latitudes nor for middle ones; the differences between the values of the wet components obtained from radiosonde data and of Saastamoinen and Hopfield models are positive in general. Therewith the δdw(HO) values are larger than the correspondent δdw(SA) ones on 20 ÷ 30 mm. This is because of that the tropospheric height, founded in the determination of the wet component by Hopfield model, does not correspond the mean real tropospheric height which is typical for the tropical latitudes; there are the considerable differences in the average values of zenith tropospheric delay between the stations of the equatorial zone. By the radiosonde data they can amount to 100 and more millimeters. These differences are caused by different character of the air humidity distribution along a height. Thus, for example, in the lower half of the troposphere the mean partial pressure of the water vapour is about 2 ÷ 2,5 times larger at Singapore station than at Hilo one. The recommendations concerning the modification of Saastamoinen and Hopfield models for the zone of tropical latitudes are given in conclusion of the paper.
Greenslade, Kathryn J; Coggins, Truman E
2016-08-01
This study presents an independent replication and extension of psychometric evidence supporting the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI). Parents of 20 children with ASD (4; 1-6; 7 years; months) and 20 with typical development (3; 1-6; 5), rated their child's theory of mind abilities in everyday situations. Other parent report and child behavioral assessments included the Social Responsiveness Scale-2, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-2, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-4, and Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals-Preschool, 2. Results revealed high internal consistency, expected developmental changes in children with typical development, expected group differences between children with and without ASD, and strong correlations with other measures of social and communication abilities. The ToMI demonstrates strong psychometrics, suggesting considerable utility in identifying theory of mind deficits in children with ASD.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Quigg, Claudia
Designed for parents, this booklet provides parents with information about encouraging literacy in young children in the format of a children's book with illustrations from various works by noted children's illustrator Tomie dePaola. The booklet emphasizes the importance of reading to and with children, stressing that reading helps children learn…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sterling, Joan
2009-01-01
This article presents a lesson that uses stitching and applique techniques to create a fiber collage in which every child is successful with high-quality work. This lesson was inspired by Tomie dePaola's "The Legend of the Bluebonnet." The back cover had a lovely illustration of the bluebonnet flower the author thought would translate easily to a…
1999-01-01
roa.es C. Tomis RedIRIS, Centro Comunicaciones CSIC RedIRIS Serrano 142, 28006 Madrid, Spain tel + 34-91-585-5150 fax +34-91-564-7421 e-mail...I&D) and managed by the Centro de Comunicaciones CSIC RedIRIS, which depends on the Scientific Research Council (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Musicality in the Language of Picture Books
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Heald, Robin
2008-01-01
The authors of picture books who write especially melodic language are doing more than simply offering up work that is pleasing to the ear. They are accessing more of the whole child. In this article five picture books will be discussed for their musical attributes: "Now One Foot, Now the Other", by Tomie dePaola, "The Cat in the Hat", by Dr.…
Anthropometry: Basic Studies and Applications. Volume 2, 1976 - July 1978
1978-08-01
available anthtcpcmetry of the head and face of member ASCC nations, demonstrates their similarities, and tests the theoretical suitability of a Poyal...Helmets, ’light clothina. Standardization, military forces (Foreign) , Military forces (United otates). Flight crews. Head (A na tomy) , Sizes (Dimensions...sioloay) , Head (Anatomy) , Face(Anatomy), Arms (Anatcmy) , Legs, Hands, Feet, Measurement, Sizes (t intensions) Tdentifiers: Ace
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Greenslade, Kathryn J.; Coggins, Truman E.
2016-01-01
This study presents an independent replication and extension of psychometric evidence supporting the "Theory of Mind Inventory" ("ToMI"). Parents of 20 children with ASD (4; 1-6; 7 years; months) and 20 with typical development (3; 1-6; 5), rated their child's theory of mind abilities in everyday situations. Other parent report…
Motion Planning with Six Degrees of Freedom.
1984-05-01
collision-free path taking "P" from some initial configuration to a desired goal configuration. _-- This thesis describes the first known implementation...configuration to a desired goal configuration. This thesis describes the first known implementation of a complete algorithm (at a given resolution) for...insight and clarity this thesis manifests. I am deeply indebted to my supervisor, Tomis Lozano-P~rez, for his guidance, support, and encouragement
Center of Excellence in Aerospace Automation
1986-05-01
Taka aad Thamai 0. Bbd Computer Sc Depanma Su&&"~ UaruMat7 suamioff. Cai=M "M Abognmut jert. The ta~uheV ftaim the objet inon erwrtroo pei ortiiin g~l o...arcurn7 ’ td the mmleliug wp Dklved 171 V naa. iog ".- lia Corble . P-ando tw1T Alto.1963 by the nion feaiactiona tomi the 3D peiliwe whtih ens be itigni-i
The Aviation Accident Experience of Civilian Airmen With Refractive Surgery
2002-06-01
such as photorefractive keratec- tomy (PRK) and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis ( LASIK ), are being performed on a rapidly growing number of...stable, healing is complete, and no glare intolerance is present (4). RK, PRK, and LASIK procedures are similar only in that the goal is to improve...called photoablation, which utilizes the excimer laser to vaporize the cornea’s outer tissue. LASIK uses a specially designed surgical scalpel
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lerner, Matthew D.; Hutchins, Tiffany L.; Prelock, Patricia A.
2011-01-01
This study presents updated information on a parent-report measure of Theory of Mind (ToM), formerly called the Perception of Children's Theory of Mind Measure (Hutchins et al., "J Autism Dev Disord" 38:143-155, 2008), renamed the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI), for use with parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study…
Theory of Mind intervention for outpatients with schizophrenia.
Bechi, Margherita; Spangaro, Marco; Bosia, Marta; Zanoletti, Andrea; Fresi, Francesco; Buonocore, Mariachiara; Cocchi, Federica; Guglielmino, Carmelo; Smeraldi, Enrico; Cavallaro, Roberto
2013-01-01
Social disability is one of the critical areas known to be a predictor of daily functioning in schizophrenia. Recent studies showed that impairments in Theory of Mind (ToM) contribute to real-world social functioning and are more strongly associated with community outcomes than other neuropsychological domains of cognition. Several experiments revealed an improving potential of social cognition targeted training, particularly through introduction of verbalisation and explicit manipulation of information about others' mental states. Based on these data, we evaluated longitudinally, with a controlled trial, the feasibility and efficacy of ToM training and the possible influences of daily functioning and IQ on the enhancement of ToM abilities. Thirty outpatients with schizophrenia were recruited and randomly allocated to two groups: ToM Intervention (ToMI), based on verbalisation of selected comic strips representing ToM scenarios, or active control group (ACG). Results showed a significant improvement of ToM abilities among subjects allocated to ToMI compared to ACG, confirming the hypothesis of the enhancing potential of training methods targeting ToM functions. Moreover, we observed no influences of neuropsychological and functional variables on ToM improvement. Development of future studies should take into account possible effects of ToM training on functional outcome, according to the strong associations between ToM abilities and real-world social functioning.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hutchins, Tiffany L.; Allen, Lyndsey; Schefer, Maggie
2017-01-01
Traditional child-performance measures of theory of mind (ToM) are associated with several limitations. The Theory of Mind Inventory-2 (ToMI-2) is a new broadband caregiver-informant measure designed to tap children's ToM competence. The purposes of this pilot study were to (1) gather preliminary data to explore the scope of the ToM challenges…
2013-01-01
endotracheal intubations, 30 transfusions, 18 tube thoracos- tomies, 9 cardiopulmonary resuscitations , 8 needle decompressions, 1 angio-embolization...monitoring in very low birth weight neonates : a randomized trial, J. Pediatr. 6 (2011) 900–906. [11] J.R. Moorman, J.B. Delos, A.A. Flower, H. Cao, B.P...Kovatchev, J.S. Richman, D.E. Lake, Cardiovascular oscillations at the bedside: early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis using heart rate characteristics
Modification of Lethality Induced by Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B in Dutch Rabbits
1980-03-01
Purification of staphylococcal enterotoxin 2. Liu CT, DeLauter RD. Faulkner RT: cation of monkeys by intravenous staphylo- B. Biochemistry 4:1011...nteotoinB (EB)ata ds- to produce death within 24 hours in Staphylococcal enterotoxin B is a age level of 50 pg/kg of body weight monkeys , 13 dogs...8KB accumulates in the renal proximal peatbyrod&-tomy and Mesm R. D. DeaII15 and caq1 G. 0Croe for tehela sitace. the monkey and rabbit is still of much
Dyonisius Exiguus - the Father of the Christian Era Was Born in Romanian Territory
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Stavinschi, Magda
In "Liber de Paschal", written in the 6th century, was introduced the new calendar, having as origin the year of Jesus' birth. This idea belongs to Dionysius Exiguus, born in Tomis, in Romanian territory. He established the rules for a new calendar, which was accepted by the whole civilized world. Now, at the threshold of a new millennium, is the moment to know the personality of this erudite monk better and the manner he established the calendar, which became universal.
1982-05-01
ALED FIELD 1| 12 1i 21 24 27 VEHICLE SPEED - MPH IE PROBABILITY DITRleUTiO OF VEICLE / i I l~~ILAGE AND TOMI / SUMMARY: S K1k HAND-SURFACID ROADS...Seals: Analysis for Rotordynamic Coefficients." Symposium volume, 6. H. F. Black and 0. N. Jenssen, "Dynamic Fluid/Structure Interactions in Hybrid
Dimensional accuracy of ceramic self-ligating brackets and estimates of theoretical torsional play.
Lee, Youngran; Lee, Dong-Yul; Kim, Yoon-Ji R
2016-09-01
To ascertain the dimensional accuracies of some commonly used ceramic self-ligation brackets and the amount of torsional play in various bracket-archwire combinations. Four types of 0.022-inch slot ceramic self-ligating brackets (upper right central incisor), three types of 0.018-inch ceramic self-ligating brackets (upper right central incisor), and three types of rectangular archwires (0.016 × 0.022-inch beta-titanium [TMA] (Ormco, Orange, Calif), 0.016 × 0.022-inch stainless steel [SS] (Ortho Technology, Tampa, Fla), and 0.019 × 0.025-inch SS (Ortho Technology)) were measured using a stereomicroscope to determine slot widths and wire cross-sectional dimensions. The mean acquired dimensions of the brackets and wires were applied to an equation devised by Meling to estimate torsional play angle (γ). In all bracket systems, the slot tops were significantly wider than the slot bases (P < .001), yielding a divergent slot profile. Clarity-SLs (3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif) showed the greatest divergence among the 0.022-inch brackets, and Clippy-Cs (Tomy, Futaba, Fukushima, Japan) among the 0.018-inch brackets. The Damon Clear (Ormco) bracket had the smallest dimensional error (0.542%), whereas the 0.022-inch Empower Clear (American Orthodontics, Sheboygan, Wis) bracket had the largest (3.585%). The largest amount of theoretical play is observed using the Empower Clear (American Orthodontics) 0.022-inch bracket combined with the 0.016 × 0.022-inch TMA wire (Ormco), whereas the least amount occurs using the 0.018 Clippy-C (Tomy) combined with 0.016 × 0.022-inch SS wire (Ortho Technology).
Are there critical periods for brain growth in children born preterm?
Cooke, R W I
2006-01-01
Children born very preterm who attend mainstream schools have a high prevalence of minor motor, behavioural, and learning disorders. These appear to be associated with reduced postnatal growth, particularly of the head. It is unclear when this poor growth occurs and whether growth restriction during different periods has different effects on later function. To identify periods during early development, in children born preterm, when impaired head growth may influence minor motor and cognitive function. A geographically defined cohort of 194 infants born in Merseyside during 1980-81 and weighing less than 1500 g. Measurements of head circumference (occipitofrontal circumference (OFC)) were available at birth, hospital discharge, 4 years, and 15 years of age. Assessments of intelligence (intelligence quotient (IQ)) and minor motor impairment (test of motor impairment (TOMI)) were made at 8 years of age. Clinical, social, and demographic variables were obtained from the clinical record and maternal interviews. IQ correlated significantly with OFC at 4 and 15 years of age after correction for growth restriction at birth (intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)) and social class. TOMI scores correlated significantly with OFC at all four times, but especially with OFC at discharge and with change in OFC between birth and discharge. They were not affected by correction for social class or IUGR. Although both IQ and minor motor impairments correlate strongly with each other at school age in very low birthweight children, the factors determining them and their timing of operation are different. Interventions designed to improve IQ in this population would need to reduce IUGR and improve later childhood growth. Those aimed to improve motor ability need to be targeted more at brain protection during the neonatal period.
Liaw, Yu-Cheng; Su, Yu-Yu M; Lai, Yu-Lin; Lee, Shyh-Yuan
2007-05-01
Stress-induced martensite formation with stress hysteresis that changes the elasticity and stiffness of nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) wire influences the sliding mechanics of archwire-guided tooth movement. This in-vitro study investigated the frictional behavior of an improved superelastic Ni-Ti wire with low-stress hysteresis. Improved superelastic Ni-Ti alloy wires (L & H Titan, Tomy International, Tokyo, Japan) with low-stress hysteresis were examined by using 3-point bending and frictional resistance tests with a universal test machine at a constant temperature of 35 degrees C, and compared with the former conventional austenitic-active superelastic Ni-Ti wires (Sentalloy, Tomy International). Wire stiffness levels were derived from differentiation of the polynomial regression of the unloading curves, and values for kinetic friction were measured at constant bending deflection distances of 0, 2, 3, and 4 mm, respectively. Compared with conventional Sentalloy wires, the L & H Titan wire had a narrower stress hysteresis including a lower loading plateau and a higher unloading plateau. In addition, L & H Titan wires were less stiff than the Sentalloy wires during most unloading stages. Values of friction measured at deflections of 0, 2, and 3 mm were significantly (P <.05) increased in both types of wire. However, they showed a significant decrease in friction from 3 to 4 mm of deflection. L & H Titan wires had less friction than Sentalloy wires at all bending deflections (P <.05). Stress-induced martensite formation significantly reduced the stiffness and thus could be beneficial to decrease the binding friction of superelastic Ni-Ti wires during sliding with large bending deflections. Austenitic-active alloy wires with low-stress hysteresis and lower stiffness and friction offer significant potential for further investigation.
Metal release from simulated fixed orthodontic appliances.
Hwang, C J; Shin, J S; Cha, J Y
2001-10-01
Most orthodontic appliances and archwires are stainless steel or nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloys that can release metal ions, with saliva as the medium. To measure metal released from the fixed orthodontic appliances currently in use, we fabricated simulated fixed orthodontic appliances that corresponded to half of the maxillary arch and soaked them in 50 mL of artificial saliva (pH 6.75 +/- 0.15, 37 degrees C) for 3 months. We used brackets, tubes, and bands made by Tomy (Tokyo, Japan). Four groups were established according to the appliance manufacturer and the type of metal in the .016 x .022-in archwires. Groups A and B were stainless steel archwires from Ormco (Glendora, Calif) and Dentaurum (Ispringen, Germany), respectively, and groups C and D were both NiTi archwires with Ormco's copper NiTi and Tomy's Bioforce sentalloy, respectively. Stainless steel archwires were heat treated in an electric furnace at 500 degrees C for 1 minute and quenched in water. We measured the amount of metal released from each group by immersion time. Our conclusions were as follows: (1) there was no increase in the amount of chromium released after 4 weeks in group A, 2 weeks in group B, 3 weeks in group C, and 8 weeks in group D; (2) there was no increase in the amount of nickel released after 2 weeks in group A, 3 days in group B, 7 days in group C, and 3 weeks in group D; and (3) there was no increase in the amount of iron released after 2 weeks in group A, 3 days in group B, and 1 day in groups C and D. In our 3-month-long investigation, we saw a decrease in metal released as immersion time increased.
Post, C; Guerrero, T; Ohlerth, S; Hässig, M; Voss, K; Montavon, P M
2008-01-01
This study describes the appearance of 'joint mice' in the sheath of the deep digital flexor muscle tendon (DDFT) due to osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions in the talocrural joint of 12 dogs. Surgical excision of all free fragments in the DDFT sheath was performed in five dogs, and their clinical progression was documented. The excision of free fragments from the DDFT sheath, but not arthro-tomy, proved clinically beneficial despite the presence of degenerative joint disease. The anatomical communication between the talocrural joint and the DDFT sheath and its dimensions are further illustrated with the use of contrast media and dissection of cadaver limbs.
Bhindi, Ravinay; Kajander, Olli A; Jolly, Sanjit S; Kassam, Saleem; Lavi, Shahar; Niemelä, Kari; Fung, Anthony; Cheema, Asim N; Meeks, Brandi; Alexopoulos, Dimitrios; Kočka, Viktor; Cantor, Warren J; Kaivosoja, Timo P; Shestakovska, Olga; Gao, Peggy; Stankovic, Goran; Džavík, Vladimír; Sheth, Tej
2015-08-01
Manual thrombectomy has been proposed as a strategy to reduce thrombus burden during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, the effectiveness of manual thrombectomy in reducing thrombus burden is uncertain. In this substudy of the TOTAL (ThrOmbecTomy versus PCI ALone) trial, we compared the thrombus burden at the culprit lesion using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients treated with thrombectomy vs. PCI-alone. The TOTAL trial (N = 10 732) was an international, multicentre, randomized trial of thrombectomy (using the Export catheter, Medtronic Cardiovascular, Santa Rosa, CA, USA) in STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. The OCT substudy prospectively enrolled 214 patients from 13 sites in 5 countries. Optical coherence tomography was performed immediately after thrombectomy or PCI-alone and then repeated after stent deployment. Thrombus quantification was performed by an independent core laboratory blinded to treatment assignment. The primary outcome of pre-stent thrombus burden as a percentage of segment analysed was 2.36% (95% CI: 1.73-3.22) in the thrombectomy group and 2.88% (95% CI: 2.12-3.90) in the PCI-alone group (P = 0.373). Absolute pre-stent thrombus volume was not different (2.99 vs. 3.74 mm(3), P = 0.329). Other secondary outcomes of pre-stent quadrants of thrombus, post-stent atherothrombotic burden, and post-stent atherothrombotic volume were not different between groups. Manual thrombectomy did not reduce pre-stent thrombus burden at the culprit lesion compared with PCI-alone. Both strategies were associated with low thrombus burden at the lesion site after the initial intervention to restore flow. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
PREFACE: 4th Workshop on Theory, Modelling and Computational Methods for Semiconductors (TMCSIV)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tomić, Stanko; Probert, Matt; Migliorato, Max; Pal, Joydeep
2014-06-01
These conference proceedings contain the written papers of the contributions presented at the 4th International Conference on Theory, Modelling and Computational Methods for Semiconductor materials and nanostructures. The conference was held at the MediaCityUK, University of Salford, Manchester, UK on 22-24 January 2014. The previous conferences in this series took place in 2012 at the University of Leeds, in 2010 at St William's College, York and in 2008 at the University of Manchester, UK. The development of high-performance computer architectures is finally allowing the routine use of accurate methods for calculating the structural, thermodynamic, vibrational, optical and electronic properties of semiconductors and their hetero- and nano-structures. The scope of this conference embraces modelling, theory and the use of sophisticated computational tools in semiconductor science and technology, where there is substantial potential for time-saving in R&D. Theoretical approaches represented in this meeting included: Density Functional Theory, Semi-empirical Electronic Structure Methods, Multi-scale Approaches, Modelling of PV devices, Electron Transport, and Graphene. Topics included, but were not limited to: Optical Properties of Quantum Nanostructures including Colloids and Nanotubes, Plasmonics, Magnetic Semiconductors, Photonic Structures, and Electronic Devices. This workshop ran for three days, with the objective of bringing together UK and international leading experts in the theoretical modelling of Group IV, III-V and II-VI semiconductors, as well as students, postdocs and early-career researchers. The first day focused on providing an introduction and overview of this vast field, aimed particularly at students, with several lectures given by recognized experts in various theoretical approaches. The following two days showcased some of the best theoretical research carried out in the UK in this field, with several contributions also from representatives of renowned theoretical groups from many European countries (Spain, France, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Luxemburg, Norway, Italy, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Serbia, etc.), as well as Asia (Iran, Japan) and USA. We would like to thank all participants for making this a very successful meeting and for their contribution to the conference programme and these proceedings. We would also like to acknowledge the financial support from the Institute of Physics (Semiconductor Physics Group and Computational Physics Group), EPSRC-UK, the CECAM UK-Hartree Node, CCP9, and Quantum Wise (distributors of Atomistix). The Editors Acknowledgments Conference Organising Committee: Stanko Tomić (Chair, University of Salford) Matt Probert (University of York) Max Migliorato (University of Manchester) Joydeep Pal (University of Manchester) Programme Committee: David Whittaker (University of Sheffield, UK) John Robertson (University of Cambridge, UK) Risto Nieminen (Helsinki University of Technology Finland) Eoin O'Reilly (Tyndall Institute Cork Republic of Ireland) Marco Califano (University of Leeds, UK) Stewart Clark (University of Durham, UK) Stanko Tomić (University of Salford, UK) Mauro Pereira (Sheffield Hallam University, UK) Aldo Di Carlo (University of Rome ''Tor Vergata,'' Italy) Lev Kantorovich (King's College London, UK) Mervin Roy (University of Leicester, UK) Ben Hourahine (University of Strathclyde, UK) Rita Magri (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy) Zoran Ikonic (University of Leeds) John Barker (University of Glasgow) The proceedings were edited and compiled by Joydeep Pal, Max Migliorato and Stanko Tomić.
Ancient Greek Terminology in Hepatopancreatobiliary Anatomy and Surgery.
Papoulas, Michail; Douvetzemis, Stergios
2015-08-01
Most of the terminology in medicine originates from Greek or Latin, revealing the impact of the ancient Greeks on modern medicine. However, the literature on the etymology of Greek words used routinely in medical practice is sparse. We provide a short guide to the etymology and meaning of Greek words currently used in the field of hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) anatomy and surgery. Focusing on HPB medical literature, the etymology and origin of Greek words including suffixes and prefixes are shown and analyzed. For example, anatomy (anatomia) is a Greek word derived from the prefix ana- (on, upon) and the suffix -tomy from the verb temno meaning to cut. Surgery, however, is not a Greek word. The corresponding Greek word is chirourgiki derived from cheir (hand) and ergon (action, work) meaning the action made by hands. Understanding the root of Greek terminology leads to an accurate, precise and comprehensive scientific medical language, reflecting the need for a universal medical language as a standardized means of communication within the health care sector.
Assessment of tropospheric delay mapping function models in Egypt: Using PTD database model
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Abdelfatah, M. A.; Mousa, Ashraf E.; El-Fiky, Gamal S.
2018-06-01
For space geodetic measurements, estimates of tropospheric delays are highly correlated with site coordinates and receiver clock biases. Thus, it is important to use the most accurate models for the tropospheric delay to reduce errors in the estimates of the other parameters. Both the zenith delay value and mapping function should be assigned correctly to reduce such errors. Several mapping function models can treat the troposphere slant delay. The recent models were not evaluated for the Egyptian local climate conditions. An assessment of these models is needed to choose the most suitable one. The goal of this paper is to test the quality of global mapping function which provides high consistency with precise troposphere delay (PTD) mapping functions. The PTD model is derived from radiosonde data using ray tracing, which consider in this paper as true value. The PTD mapping functions were compared, with three recent total mapping functions model and another three separate dry and wet mapping function model. The results of the research indicate that models are very close up to zenith angle 80°. Saastamoinen and 1/cos z model are behind accuracy. Niell model is better than VMF model. The model of Black and Eisner is a good model. The results also indicate that the geometric range error has insignificant effect on slant delay and the fluctuation of azimuth anti-symmetric is about 1%.
Kim, Joo Hyoung; Cha, Jung Yul; Hwang, Chung Ju
2012-12-01
This in vitro study was undertaken to evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of commercially available metal orthodontic brackets in South Korea, because national standards for these products are lacking. FOUR BRACKET BRANDS WERE TESTED FOR DIMENSIONAL ACCURACY, (MANUFACTURING ERRORS IN ANGULATION AND TORQUE), CYTOTOXICITY, COMPOSITION, ELUTION, AND CORROSION: Archist (Daeseung Medical), Victory (3M Unitek), Kosaka (Tomy), and Confidence (Shinye Odontology Materials). The tested rackets showed no significant differences in manufacturing errors in angulation, but Confidence brackets showed a significant difference in manufacturing errors in torque. None of the brackets were cytotoxic to mouse fibroblasts. The metal ion components did not show a regular increasing or decreasing trend of elution over time, but the volume of the total eluted metal ions increased: Archist brackets had the maximal Cr elution and Confidence brackets appeared to have the largest volume of total eluted metal ions because of excessive Ni elution. Confidence brackets showed the lowest corrosion resistance during potentiodynamic polarization. The results of this study could potentially be applied in establishing national standards for metal orthodontic brackets and in evaluating commercially available products.
Self-affirmation improves self-control over snacking among participants low in eating self-efficacy.
Churchill, Susan; Jessop, Donna C; Green, Ricky; Harris, Peter R
2018-04-01
Individuals low in eating self-efficacy are at particular risk of engaging in unhealthy eating behaviours, including the consumption of high calorie snacks. The elevated levels of snacking displayed by these individuals can largely be attributed to their experiencing low self-control over the avoidance of such foods (Hankonen, Kinnunen, Absetz, & Jallinoja, 2014). Interventions are thus required to boost self-control over snacking among those low in eating self-efficacy. Self-affirmation has been shown to boost self-control among individuals with depleted resources in other domains (Schmeichel & Vohs, 2009). The purpose of the current study was to test the hypothesis that a self-affirmation manipulation would similarly increase self-control over snacking for individuals low in eating self-efficacy. At baseline, participants (N = 70) completed measures of dietary restraint and eating self-efficacy. In the main study, participants completed either a self-affirmation or a control task immediately before undertaking a joystick category judgment task that assessed self-control over snacking. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed the predicted significant interaction between eating self-efficacy and self-affirmation, demonstrating that self-affirmation moderated the association between eating self-efficacy and self-control over snacking. Johnson-Neyman regions of significance confirmed that for participants low in eating self-efficacy the self-affirmation manipulation resulted in higher levels of self-control. Unexpectedly, however, for participants high in eating self-efficacy the self-affirmation manipulation was found to be associated with lower levels of self-control. Findings supported the hypothesis that a self-affirmation manipulation would boost self-control over snacking among individuals low in eating self-efficacy. Self-affirmation may thus provide a useful technique for strengthening self-control in relation to the avoidance of unhealthy foods among individuals who find it difficult to manage challenging dietary situations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Paunović, Milorad
2013-01-01
Dehiscence after laparotomy is one of the major complications of laparotomy. This is a partial or complete wound with disruption and evisceratio abdominal organs and require urgent reintervention. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of neoplastic disease and systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. A prospective study were included 612 patients operated at the Clinic for General Surgery in Nis in the period from January 2009 to December 2010. The effect of neoplastic disease and the presence of systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. Results are displayed numerically and in percentages. Of the total 24 patients with dehiscence laparotomy, 15 patients were male or 62.5% and 9 female patients, or 37.5%. There was a statistically significant association between dehiscence laparotomy and neoplastic diseases (c2 = 42,196; p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant association between dehiscence laparo-tomy and systemic disease of connective tissue (c2 = 0,028; p > 0.05). In patients with neoplastic diseases dehis-cence laparotomy is common, and in patients suffering from systemic disease of connective tissue dehiscence laparotomy occurs less frequently.
Ikeda, Yuhei; Kokai, Satoshi; Ono, Takashi
2018-01-01
Skeletal and dental discrepancies cause asymmetric malocclusions in orthodontic patients. It is difficult to achieve adequate functional occlusion and guidance in patients with congenital absence of a mandibular incisor due to the tooth-size discrepancy. Here, we describe the orthodontic treatment of a 22-year-old woman with an asymmetric Angle Class II malocclusion, mandibular deviation to the left, and 3 mandibular incisors. The anterior teeth and maxillary canines were crowded. We used an improved superelastic nickel-titanium alloy wire (Tomy International, Tokyo, Japan) to compensate for the asymmetric mandibular arch and an asymmetrically bent archwire to move the maxillary molars distally. A skeletal anchorage system provided traction for intermaxillary elastics, and extractions were not needed. We alleviated the crowding and created an ideal occlusion with proper overjet, overbite, and anterior guidance with Class I canine and molar relationships. This method of treatment with an asymmetrically bent nickel-titanium alloy wire provided proper Class I occlusion and anterior guidance despite the mandibular deviation to the left and 3 mandibular incisors, without the need for extractions. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Atmospheric Phase Delay in Sentinel SAR Interferometry
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Krishnakumar, V.; Monserrat, O.; Crosetto, M.; Crippa, B.
2018-04-01
The repeat-pass Synthetic Aperture Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) Interferometry (InSAR) has been a widely used geodetic technique for observing the Earth's surface, especially for mapping the Earth's topography and deformations. However, InSAR measurements are prone to atmospheric errors. RADAR waves traverse the Earth's atmosphere twice and experience a delay due to atmospheric refraction. The two major layers of the atmosphere (troposphere and ionosphere) are mainly responsible for this delay in the propagating RADAR wave. Previous studies have shown that water vapour and clouds present in the troposphere and the Total Electron Content (TEC) of the ionosphere are responsible for the additional path delay in the RADAR wave. The tropospheric refractivity is mainly dependent on pressure, temperature and partial pressure of water vapour. The tropospheric refractivity leads to an increase in the observed range. These induced propagation delays affect the quality of phase measurement and introduce errors in the topography and deformation fields. The effect of this delay was studied on a differential interferogram (DInSAR). To calculate the amount of tropospheric delay occurred, the meteorological data collected from the Spanish Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) and MODIS were used. The interferograms generated from Sentinel-1 carrying C-band Synthetic Aperture RADAR Single Look Complex (SLC) images acquired on the study area are used. The study area consists of different types of scatterers exhibiting different coherence. The existing Saastamoinen model was used to perform a quantitative evaluation of the phase changes caused by pressure, temperature and humidity of the troposphere during the study. Unless the phase values due to atmospheric disturbances are not corrected, it is difficult to obtain accurate measurements. Thus, the atmospheric error correction is essential for all practical applications of DInSAR to avoid inaccurate height and deformation measurements.
Mohammad, Shukry Gamal; Raheel, Syed Ahmed; Baroudi, Kusai
2015-02-01
The objective of this study was to evaluate the histo pathology effects of two medicaments Allium sativum oil and formocresol on the remaining pulp tissue of the permanent teething children. A total of 18 premolars were included in this study. Two sound premolars were extracted and subjected to histological examination to show the normal pulp tissue. Pulpo tomy procedure was performed in the rest of the remaining 16 premolars; half of them using Allium sativum oil and the rest of the tested premolars were medicated using formocresol and all were sealed with suitable restoration. Then, premolars extracted at variable intervals (48 hours, 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months), stained using hemotoxylin and eosin etain (H&E) and prepared for histopathology examination. Histological evaluation seemed far more promising for Allium sativum oil than formocresol. Histological evaluation revealed that teeth treated with Allium sativa oil showed infammatory changes that had been resolved in the end of the study. On the contrary, the severe chronic infammation of pulp tissue accompanied with formocresol eventually produced pulp necrosis with or without fibrosis. In addition, pulp calcification was evidenced in certain cases. Allium sativum oil is a biocompatible material that is compatible with vital human pulp tissue. It offers a good healing potential, leaving the remaining pulp tissue healthy and functioning.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Amato, Franceso; Rosoldi, Marco; Madonna, Fabio
2015-04-01
Information about the amount and spatial distribution of atmospheric water vapor is essential to improve our knowledge of weather forecasting and climate change. Water vapor is highly variable in space and time depending on the complex interplay of several phenomena like convection, precipitation, turbulence, etc. It remains one of the most poorly characterized meteorological parameters. Remarkable progress in using of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), in particular GPS, for the monitoring of atmospheric water vapor has been achieved during the last decades. Various studies have demonstrated that GPS could provide accurate water vapor estimates for the study of the atmosphere. Different GPS data processing provided within the scientific community made use of various tropospheric models that primarily differs for the assumptions on the vertical refractivity profiles and the mapping of the vertical delay with elevation angles. This works compares several models based on the use of surface meteorological data. In order to calculate the Integrated Water Vapour (IWV), an algorithm for calculating the zenith tropospheric delay was implemented. It is based upon different mapping functions (Niell, Saastamoinen, Chao and Herring Mapping Functions). Observations are performed at the Istituto di Metodologie per l'Analisi Ambientale (IMAA) GPS station located in Tito Scalo, Potenza (40.60N, 15.72E), from July to December 2014, in the framework of OSCAR project (Observation System for Climate Application at Regional scale). The retrieved values of the IWV using the GPS are systematically compared with the other estimation of IWV collected at CIAO (CNR-IMAA Atmospheric Observatory) using the other available measurement techniques. In particular, in this work the compared IWV are retrieved from: 1. a Trimble GPS antenna (data processed by the GPS-Met network, see gpsmet.nooa.gov); 2. a Novatel GPS antenna (data locally processed using a software developed at CIAO); 3. radiosondes (processed using GRUAN processing algorithm); 4. a microwave radiometer (data processed using a retrieval based on a neural network). F. Amato, M. Rosoldi, and F. Madonna Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Metodologie per l'Analisi Ambientale (CNR-IMAA), Tito Scalo, Potenza, Italy Information about the amount and spatial distribution of atmospheric water vapor is essential to improve our knowledge of weather forecasting and climate change. Water vapor is highly variable in space and time depending on the complex interplay of several phenomena like convection, precipitation, turbulence, etc. It remains one of the most poorly characterized meteorological parameters. Remarkable progress in using of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), in particular GPS, for the monitoring of atmospheric water vapor has been achieved during the last decades. Various studies have demonstrated that GPS could provide accurate water vapor estimates for the study of the atmosphere. Different GPS data processing provided within the scientific community made use of various tropospheric models that primarily differs for the assumptions on the vertical refractivity profiles and the mapping of the vertical delay with elevation angles. This works compares several models based on the use of surface meteorological data. In order to calculate the Integrated Water Vapour (IWV), an algorithm for calculating the zenith tropospheric delay was implemented. It is based upon different mapping functions (Niell, Saastamoinen, Chao and Herring Mapping Functions). Observations are performed at the Istituto di Metodologie per l'Analisi Ambientale (IMAA) GPS station located in Tito Scalo, Potenza (40.60N, 15.72E), from July to December 2014, in the framework of OSCAR project (Observation System for Climate Application at Regional scale). The retrieved values of the IWV using the GPS are systematically compared with the other estimation of IWV collected at CIAO (CNR-IMAA Atmospheric Observatory) using the other available measurement techniques. In particular, in this work the compared IWV are retrieved from: 1. a Trimble GPS antenna (data processed by the GPS-Met network, see gpsmet.nooa.gov); 2. a Novatel GPS antenna (data locally processed using a software developed at CIAO); 3. radiosondes (processed using GRUAN processing algorithm); 4. a microwave radiometer (data processed using a retrieval based on a neural network). Discrepancies between the time series will be shown and critically discussed.
Kang, Sang-Wook; Kandil, Emad; Kim, Min Jhi; Kim, Kwang Soon; Lee, Cho Rok; Jeong, Jong Ju; Nam, Kee-Hyun; Chung, Woong Youn; Park, Cheong Soo
2018-04-01
The posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalec tomy has several advantages compared with the transperitoneal approach such as a shorter and more direct route to the target organ, no breach of the intraperitoneal space, and no required retraction of the adjacent organs. It also is a safe procedure with a short learning curve.1 - 5 This report presents a challenging case of an extra-adrenal paraganglioma located in the aorto-caval space and managed using the retroperitoneal approach. A 39-year-old man was placed in the prone jackknife position, and three incisions were made in the right posterior abdominal wall for placement of the laparoscopic ports. The retroperitoneal space was entered with diathermy and blunt finger dissection, and retropneumoperitoneum was achieved with carbon dioxide insufflation pressure up to 18 mmHg. After identification of the right kidney and vessels, the tumor was meticulously dissected and excised with an energy device. The specimen was removed using a laparoscopic specimen retrieval bag, and the port sites were closed in layers. The operative time was 130 min, and the total blood loss was 30 ml. The tumor was diagnosed as a moderately differentiated extra-adrenal paraganglioma. The Von Hippel-Lindau gene mutation was detected using next-generation sequencing. The posterior retroperitoneoscopic approach is a safe, feasible, and effective method for excising an extra-adrenal paraganglioma even in the aorto-caval space. The authors suggest that this procedure is a useful surgical option for treatment of an aorto-caval paraganglioma for selected patients and by experienced surgeons.
Dausch, Dieter; Dausch, Burglinde; Wottke, Matthias; Sluyterman van Langeweyde, Georg
2014-01-01
One hundred eyes from 55 adult patients with myopia were retrospectively studied to determine the comparative safety, efficacy, and predictability of aberration smart ablation (ASA) and a new advanced ablation algorithm (Triple-A) using the MEL(®) 80 excimer laser. Fifty myopic eyes with a manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) between -1.0 diopters (D) and -9.75 D were consecutively treated with photorefractive keratec-tomy ASA, and 50 myopic eyes with an MRSE between -1.38 D and -11.0 D with photorefractive keratectomy Triple-A. Uncorrected distance visual acuity, MRSE, the absolute value of the cylinder, corrected distance visual acuity, and postoperative complications at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months (1 year) were descriptively analyzed and compared at 1 year. After 12 months, the MRSE variance was statistically significantly better in patients triaged to receive Triple-A compared with patients receiving ASA (ASA, ±0.7 D; Triple-A, ±0.15 D; P<0.001). Furthermore, no patient in the Triple-A group had any cylinder postoperatively. Patients in the Triple-A treatment arm achieved a superior result. No statistically significant difference in the two treatment arms was noted for the analysis of the mean MRSE at 12 months (P=0.78). Triple-A was more effective than standard aspherical surgical intervention in a number of treatment outcome parameters (eg, MRSE, astigmatism, efficacy index). The two surgical procedures were equivalent in terms of safety.
Employing Tropospheric Numerical Weather Prediction Model for High-Precision GNSS Positioning
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Alves, Daniele; Gouveia, Tayna; Abreu, Pedro; Magário, Jackes
2014-05-01
In the past few years is increasing the necessity of realizing high accuracy positioning. In this sense, the spatial technologies have being widely used. The GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) has revolutionized the geodetic positioning activities. Among the existent methods one can emphasize the Precise Point Positioning (PPP) and network-based positioning. But, to get high accuracy employing these methods, mainly in real time, is indispensable to realize the atmospheric modeling (ionosphere and troposphere) accordingly. Related to troposphere, there are the empirical models (for example Saastamoinen and Hopfield). But when highly accuracy results (error of few centimeters) are desired, maybe these models are not appropriated to the Brazilian reality. In order to minimize this limitation arises the NWP (Numerical Weather Prediction) models. In Brazil the CPTEC/INPE (Center for Weather Prediction and Climate Studies / Brazilian Institute for Spatial Researches) provides a regional NWP model, currently used to produce Zenithal Tropospheric Delay (ZTD) predictions (http://satelite.cptec.inpe.br/zenital/). The actual version, called eta15km model, has a spatial resolution of 15 km and temporal resolution of 3 hours. In this paper the main goal is to accomplish experiments and analysis concerning the use of troposphere NWP model (eta15km model) in PPP and network-based positioning. Concerning PPP it was used data from dozens of stations over the Brazilian territory, including Amazon forest. The results obtained with NWP model were compared with Hopfield one. NWP model presented the best results in all experiments. Related to network-based positioning it was used data from GNSS/SP Network in São Paulo State, Brazil. This network presents the best configuration in the country to realize this kind of positioning. Actually the network is composed by twenty stations (http://www.fct.unesp.br/#!/pesquisa/grupos-de-estudo-e-pesquisa/gege//gnss-sp-network2789/). The results obtained employing NWP model also were compared to Hopfield one, and the results were very interesting. The theoretical concepts, experiments, results and analysis will be presented in this paper.
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.
DeepNAT: Deep convolutional neural network for segmenting neuroanatomy.
Wachinger, Christian; Reuter, Martin; Klein, Tassilo
2018-04-15
We introduce DeepNAT, a 3D Deep convolutional neural network for the automatic segmentation of NeuroAnaTomy in T1-weighted magnetic resonance images. DeepNAT is an end-to-end learning-based approach to brain segmentation that jointly learns an abstract feature representation and a multi-class classification. We propose a 3D patch-based approach, where we do not only predict the center voxel of the patch but also neighbors, which is formulated as multi-task learning. To address a class imbalance problem, we arrange two networks hierarchically, where the first one separates foreground from background, and the second one identifies 25 brain structures on the foreground. Since patches lack spatial context, we augment them with coordinates. To this end, we introduce a novel intrinsic parameterization of the brain volume, formed by eigenfunctions of the Laplace-Beltrami operator. As network architecture, we use three convolutional layers with pooling, batch normalization, and non-linearities, followed by fully connected layers with dropout. The final segmentation is inferred from the probabilistic output of the network with a 3D fully connected conditional random field, which ensures label agreement between close voxels. The roughly 2.7million parameters in the network are learned with stochastic gradient descent. Our results show that DeepNAT compares favorably to state-of-the-art methods. Finally, the purely learning-based method may have a high potential for the adaptation to young, old, or diseased brains by fine-tuning the pre-trained network with a small training sample on the target application, where the availability of larger datasets with manual annotations may boost the overall segmentation accuracy in the future. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Miranda, Ana; Berenguer, Carmen; Roselló, Belén; Baixauli, Inmaculada; Colomer, Carla
2017-01-01
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social impairments. The first objective of this study was to analyze social cognition deficits of children with ADHD, high-functioning ASD (HFASD), and typical development (TD) in their performance on explicit and applied measures of theory of mind (ToM). The second objective was to investigate the relationships between executive functions and social cognition in HFASD and ADHD. One hundred and twenty-six 7- to 11-year old children, 52 with HFASD, 35 with ADHD, and 39 with TD, performed the NEPSY-II social perception subtests. Parents estimated their children's ToM skills using the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI). Teacher-reported data from the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) were also obtained. The HFASD and ADHD groups showed worse performance on the verbal ToM task than the TD group, and only the performance of the HFASD group was significantly lower than the TD group on the contextual ToM task. Parents also estimated that the HFASD group had more difficulties on the applied ToM than the ADHD and TD groups. Furthermore, there is a different executive function-theory of mind link in the HFASD and ADHD groups: behavioral regulation processes such as inhibition and emotional control are more associated with social cognition in children with ADHD, whereas metacognitive processes such as initiation and planning have a strong association with social cognition in children with HFASD. These findings have implications for understanding social perception deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting the need for early intervention.
Miranda, Ana; Berenguer, Carmen; Roselló, Belén; Baixauli, Inmaculada; Colomer, Carla
2017-01-01
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social impairments. The first objective of this study was to analyze social cognition deficits of children with ADHD, high-functioning ASD (HFASD), and typical development (TD) in their performance on explicit and applied measures of theory of mind (ToM). The second objective was to investigate the relationships between executive functions and social cognition in HFASD and ADHD. One hundred and twenty-six 7- to 11-year old children, 52 with HFASD, 35 with ADHD, and 39 with TD, performed the NEPSY-II social perception subtests. Parents estimated their children's ToM skills using the Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI). Teacher-reported data from the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) were also obtained. The HFASD and ADHD groups showed worse performance on the verbal ToM task than the TD group, and only the performance of the HFASD group was significantly lower than the TD group on the contextual ToM task. Parents also estimated that the HFASD group had more difficulties on the applied ToM than the ADHD and TD groups. Furthermore, there is a different executive function-theory of mind link in the HFASD and ADHD groups: behavioral regulation processes such as inhibition and emotional control are more associated with social cognition in children with ADHD, whereas metacognitive processes such as initiation and planning have a strong association with social cognition in children with HFASD. These findings have implications for understanding social perception deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting the need for early intervention. PMID:28690570
Sword, Wendy; Watt, Susan; Krueger, Paul; Thabane, Lehana; Landy, Christine Kurtz; Farine, Dan; Swinton, Marilyn
2009-01-01
Background The caesarean section rate continues to rise globally. A caesarean section is inarguably the preferred method of delivery when there is good evidence that a vaginal delivery may unduly risk the health of a woman or her infant. Any decisions about delivery method in the absence of clear medical indication should be based on knowledge of outcomes associated with different childbirth methods. However, there is lack of sold evidence of the short-term and long-term risks and benefits of a planned caesarean delivery compared to a planned vaginal delivery. It also is important to consider the economic aspects of caesarean sections, but very little attention has been given to health care system costs that take into account services used by women for themselves and their infants following hospital discharge. Methods and design The Ontario Mother and Infant Study III is a prospective cohort study to examine relationships between method of delivery and maternal and infant health, service utilization, and cost of care at three time points during the year following postpartum hospital discharge. Over 2500 women were recruited from 11 hospitals across the province of Ontario, Canada, with data collection occurring between April 2006 and October 2008. Participants completed a self-report questionnaire in hospital and structured telephone interviews at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after discharge. Data will be analyzed using generalized estimating equation, a special generalized linear models technique. A qualitative descriptive component supplements the survey approach, with the goal of assisting in interpretation of data and providing explanations for trends in the findings. Discussion The findings can be incorporated into patient counselling and discussions about the advantages and disadvantages of different delivery methods, potentially leading to changes in preferences and practices. In addition, the findings will be useful to hospital- and community-based postpartum care providers, managers, and administrators in guiding risk assessment and early intervention strategies. Finally, the research findings can provide the basis for policy modification and implementation strategies to improve outcomes and reduce costs of care. PMID:19397827
PREFACE: Euro-TMCS I: Theory, Modelling and Computational Methods for Semiconductors
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gómez-Campos, F. M.; Rodríguez-Bolívar, S.; Tomić, S.
2015-05-01
The present issue contains a selection of the best contributed works presented at the first Euro-TMCS conference (Theory, Modelling and Computational Methods for Semiconductors, European Session). The conference was held at Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Granada, Spain on 28st-30st January 2015. This conference is the first European edition of the TMCS conference series which started in 2008 at the University of Manchester and has always been held in the United Kingdom. Four previous conferences have been previously carried out (Manchester 2008, York 2010, Leeds 2012 and Salford 2014). Euro-TMCS is run for three days; the first one devoted to giving invited tutorials, aimed particularly at students, on recent development of theoretical methods. On this occasion the session was focused on the presentation of widely-used computational methods for the modelling of physical processes in semiconductor materials. Freely available simulation software (SIESTA, Quantum Espresso and Yambo) as well as commercial software (TiberCad and MedeA) were presented in the conference by members of their development team, offering to the audience an overview of their capabilities for research. The second part of the conference showcased prestigious invited and contributed oral presentations, alongside poster sessions, in which direct discussion with authors was promoted. The scope of this conference embraces modelling, theory and the use of sophisticated computational tools in semiconductor science and technology. Theoretical approaches represented in this meeting included: Density Functional Theory, Semi-empirical Electronic Structure Methods, Multi-scale Approaches, Modelling of PV devices, Electron Transport, and Graphene. Topics included, but were not limited to: Optical Properties of Quantum Nanostructures including Colloids and Nanotubes, Plasmonics, Magnetic Semiconductors, Photonic Structures, and Electronic Devices. The Editors Acknowledgments: We would like to thank all participants for making this a very successful meeting and for their contribution to the conference programme and these proceedings. We would also like to acknowledge the financial support from Universidad de Granada, the CECAM UK-Hartree Node, project TEC2013-47283-R of Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad, and the company Materials Design (distributors of MedeA Software). Conference Organising Committee: Francisco M. Gómez-Campos (Co-chair, Universidad de Granada) Salvador Rodríguez-Bolívar (Co-chair, Universidad de Granada) Stanko Tomić (Co-chair, University of Salford)
Buckingham, J C; Safieh, B; Singh, S; Arduino, L A; Cover, P O; Kendall, M D
1992-06-01
Our recent observations in man suggested that the secretion of the thymic peptide, thymulin, is influenced by hormones of the pituitary-adrenal axis. In the present study, we have used the rat as a model in order to examine 1) the effects of corticotrophin (ACTH) and glucocorticoids on the release of thymulin in vivo and in vitro, and 2) the influence of an acute rise in plasma thymulin on the secretion of corticosterone and luteinizing hormone. Immunoreactive thymulin was readily detectable in plasma from male Sprague-Dawley rats(≃200 g). Chronic bilateral adrenalec-tomy, which effectively removed endogenous corticosterone, produced highly significant (P<0.01) increases in the plasma concentrations of both ACTH and thymulin. Treatment of the adrenalectomized rats with dexamethasone, in a dose sufficient to suppress the hypersecretion of ACTH, maintained the plasma thymulin at a low level which did not differ significantly (P > 0.2) from that in sham-operated controls. In vitro, two non-specific depolarizing agents, K(+) (56 mM) and veratridine (10 ≃M), caused significant (P<0.01) Ca(2+) -dependent increases in thymulin release from segments of rat thymic tissue. Their effects were mimicked by ACTH(1-39) . The secretory responses to ACTH (0.025 to 1 ng/ml) were concentration-dependent but a very high concentration (2 ng/ml) of the peptide was without effect. Dexamethasone (0.1 μM) reduced (P<0.05) the spontaneous release of thymulin in vitro but potentiated markedly (P<0.01) the secretory responses to ACTH (0.5 to 1.0 ng/ml). Administration of thymulin (0.1 and 10 μg/kg ip) produced, within 10 min, striking increases in the plasma thymulin concentration which were still evident at 30 min. The peptide concentration then declined rapidly and, within 24 h, was lower than that in the corresponding vehicle-treated controls. The serum concentrations of corticosterone and luteinizing hormone were unaffected by the thymulin treatment. The saline vehicle (2.0 ml/kg ip) also produced a small increase in plasma thymulin concentration which was maximal at 10 min; a further small rise was evident 6 h after the injection but thereafter the thymulin values were indistinguishable from those in uninjected controls. A similar biphasic profile of serum corticosterone was apparent after the saline injection but the serum luteinizing hormone was unaffected. The results suggest that ACTH is a physiological enhancer of thymulin release and that, in certain circumstances, its effects may be potentiated by glucocorticoids.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Virshylo, Ivan; Kozlovskaya, Elena; Prodaivoda, George; Silvennoinen, Hanna
2013-04-01
Studying of the uppermost mantle beneath the northern Fennoscandia is based on the data of the POLENET/LAPNET passive seismic array. Firstly, arrivals of P-waves of teleseismic events were inverted into P-wave velocity model using non-linear tomography (Silvennoinen et al., in preparation). The second stage was numerical petrological interpretation of referred above velocity model. This study presents estimation of mineralogical composition of the uppermost mantle as a result of numerical modeling. There are many studies concerning calculation of seismic velocities for polymineral media under high pressure and temperature conditions (Afonso, Fernàndez, Ranalli, Griffin, & Connolly, 2008; Fullea et al., 2009; Hacker, 2004; Xu, Lithgow-Bertelloni, Stixrude, & Ritsema, 2008). The elastic properties under high pressure and temperature (PT) conditions were modelled using the expanded Hook's law - Duhamel-Neumann equation, which allows computation of thermoelastic strains. Furthermore, we used a matrix model with multi-component inclusions that has no any restrictions on shape, orientation or concentration of inclusions. Stochastic method of conditional moment with computation scheme of Mori-Tanaka (Prodaivoda, Khoroshun, Nazarenko, & Vyzhva, 2000) is applied instead of traditional Voigt-Reuss-Hill and Hashin-Shtrikman equations. We developed software for both forward and inverse problem calculation. Inverse algorithm uses methods of global non-linear optimization. We prefer a "model-based" approach for ill-posed problem, which means that the problem is solved using geological and geophysical constraints for each parameter of a priori and final models. Additionally, we are checking at least several different hypothesis explaining how it is possible to get the solution with good fit to the observed data. If the a priori model is close to the real medium, the nearest solution would be found by the inversion. Otherwise, the global optimization is searching inside the restricted volume in the multi-dimensional parameter space. In order to constrain concentration of minerals we used equilibrium of mineral associations for selected P-T condition obtained by free Gibbs energy minimization (c.f. Stixrude & Lithgow-Bertelloni, 2005). We also considered the mineralogical composition of upper mantle xenoliths, although the representativeness of xenoliths in Precambrian rocks could be treated with care, if one tries to describe the modern mantle. As a first step, we estimated 1D model of mineralogical composition in the depth range of 35-350 km using the IASP91 reference model (Kennett & Engdahl, 1991). Both the P- and S- wave velocities were used for inversion, in order to improve the reliability of the model. More comprehensive result could be obtained if density distribution is involved. In our study we used the 1D PEMC density model (Dziewonski, Hales & Lapwood, 1975) as it is the most adequate for the continental lithosphere. The 1D modeling showed that the garnet lherzolite model (forsterite, fayalite, enstatite, ferrosilite, diopside, jadeite, pyrope) can be considered as a basic one. The end-members of olivine and orthopyroxene solutions were included with the aim of Fe/Mg ratio estimation. Testing with modified models including hedenbergite, harzburgite spinel, etc. showed that these minerals have no significant influence on bulk elastic properties. Selected set of minerals allows modelling the most species of peridote-pyroxenite associations known from xenoliths investigations (Kukkonen, Kuusisto, Lehtonen, & Peltonen, 2008; Lehtonen, O'Brien, Peltonen, Johanson, & Pakkanen, 2004). However, there exist also a number of evidences for mantle eclogite xenoliths from the region under study and its surrounding (Lehtonen et al., 2004; Peltonen, Kinnunen, & Huhma, 2002). That is why we also made modelling for garnet-clinopyroxene model of eclogite. The volumetric mineral compositions obtained were transformed into weight concentration of rock-forming oxides using stoichiometric formulas. The results indicate significant variation of Fe and Mg oxides concentration in the uppermost mantle. The Mg/Fe ratio could be different from the results of previous studies (Griffin et al., 2003; Svetov & Smolkin, 2003), but it is in agreement with the geophysical models considered in our study. At the same time the SiO2 concentration is close to the chemical composition of xenoliths from the Fennoscandia, including Kola Peninsula and Central Finland (Beard, Downes, Mason, & Vetrin, 2007; Kukkonen et al., 2008; Lehtonen et al., 2004). Brief conclusions from our study could be formulated as follows: 1) Modelling confirms potential significant lateral inhomogeneity of mineral composition of the uppermost mantle of northern Fennoscandian Shield. 2) Lherzolitic composition of the mantle lithosphere generally explains seismic velocities obtained by teleseismic tomography in northern Fennoscandian Shield. It could be used as a primary a priori model for interpretation. But potential presence of eclogites cannot be rejected, at least for some parts of studied area. 3) The future study needs to include more precise evaluation of temperature and density in the upper mantle using gravity and heat flow data. Afonso, J. C., Fernàndez, M., Ranalli, G., Griffin, W. L., & Connolly, J. a. D. (2008). Integrated geophysical-petrological modeling of the lithosphere and sublithospheric upper mantle: Methodology and applications. Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, 9(5). doi:10.1029/2007GC001834 Beard, a. D., Downes, H., Mason, P. R. D., & Vetrin, V. R. (2007). Depletion and enrichment processes in the lithospheric mantle beneath the Kola Peninsula (Russia): Evidence from spinel lherzolite and wehrlite xenoliths. Lithos, 94(1-4), 1-24. doi:10.1016/j.lithos.2006.02.002 Dziewonski, A.M., A.L. Hales, & E.R. Lapwood. (1975) Parametrically simple earth models consistent with geophysical data Phys. Earth Plan. Int. 10:12. Fullea, J., Afonso, J. C., Connolly, J. A. D., Fernàndez, M., García-Castellanos, D., & Zeyen, H. (2009). LitMod3D: An interactive 3-D software to model the thermal, compositional, density, seismological, and rheological structure of the lithosphere and sublithospheric upper mantle. Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, 10(8), 1-21. doi:10.1029/2009GC002391 Griffin, W. ., O'Reilly, S. ., Abe, N., Aulbach, S., Davies, R. ., Pearson, N. ., Doyle, B. ., et al. (2003). The origin and evolution of Archean lithospheric mantle. Precambrian Research, 127(1-3), 19-41. doi:10.1016/S0301-9268(03)00180-3 Hacker, B. R. (2004). Subduction Factory 3: An Excel worksheet and macro for calculating the densities, seismic wave speeds, and H 2 O contents of minerals and rocks at pressure and temperature. Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems, 5(1), 1-7. doi:10.1029/2003GC000614 Kennett B.L.N. & Engdahl E.R. (1991) Travel times for global earthquake location and phase association. Geophysical Journal International, 105:429-465. Kukkonen, I., Kuusisto, M., Lehtonen, M., & Peltonen, P. (2008). Delamination of eclogitized lower crust: Control on the crust-mantle boundary in the central Fennoscandian shield. Tectonophysics, 457(3-4), 111-127. doi:10.1016/j.tecto.2008.04.029 Lehtonen, M. L., O'Brien, H. E., Peltonen, P., Johanson, B. S., & Pakkanen, L. K. (2004). Layered mantle at the Karelian Craton margin: P - T of mantle xenocrysts and xenoliths from the Kaavi - Kuopio kimberlites , Finland. Lithos, 77, 593-608. doi:10.1016/j.lithos.2004.04.026 Peltonen, P., Kinnunen, K. A., & Huhma, H. (2002). Petrology of two diamondiferous eclogite xenoliths from the Lahtojoki kimberlite pipe , eastern Finland. Lithos, 63, 151-164. Prodaivoda, G. T., Khoroshun, L. P., Nazarenko, L. V, & Vyzhva, S. A. (2000). Mathematical modeling of the azimuthal anisotropy in thermoelasic properties of the oceanic upper mantle. IzvestiyaPhysics of the Solid Earth, 36(5), 394-405. Stixrude, L., & Lithgow-Bertelloni, C. (2005). Thermodynamics of mantle minerals - I. Physical properties. Geophysical Journal International, 162(2), 610-632. Retrieved from http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/8891/ Svetov, S. A., & Smolkin, V. F. (2003). Model P - T Conditions of High-Magnesia Magma Generation in the Precambrian of the Fennoscandian Shield. Geochemistry International, 41(8), 799-811. Xu, W., Lithgow-Bertelloni, C., Stixrude, L., & Ritsema, J. (2008). The effect of bulk composition and temperature on mantle seismic structure. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 275(1-2), 70-79. doi:10.1016/j.epsl.2008.08.012
Time evolution and emission factors of aerosol particles from day and night time savannah fires
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vakkari, Ville; Beukes, Johan Paul; Tiitta, Petri; Venter, Andrew; Jaars, Kerneels; Josipovic, Miroslav; van Zyl, Pieter; Kulmala, Markku; Laakso, Lauri
2013-04-01
The largest uncertainties in the current global climate models originate from aerosol particle effects (IPCC, 2007) and at the same time aerosol particles also pose a threat to human health (Pope and Dockery, 2006). In southern Africa wild fires and prescribed burning are one of the most important sources of aerosol particles, especially during the dry season from June to September (e.g. Swap et al., 2003; Vakkari et al., 2012). The aerosol particle emissions from savannah fires in southern Africa have been studied in several intensive campaigns such as SAFARI 1992 and 2000 (Swap et al., 2003). However, all previous measurements have been carried out during the daytime, whereas most of the prescribed fires in southern Africa are lit up only after sunset. Furthermore, the previous campaigns followed the plume evolution for up to one hour after emission only. In this study, combining remote sensing fire observations to ground-based long-term measurements of aerosol particle and trace gas properties at the Welgegund measurement station (www.welgegund.org), we have been able to follow the time evolution of savannah fire plumes up to several hours in the atmosphere. For the first time the aerosol particle size distribution measurements in savannah fire plumes cover both day and night time plumes and also the ultrafine size range below 100 nm. During the period from May 20th 2010 to April 15th 2012 altogether 61 savannah fire plumes were observed at Welgegund. The evolution of the aerosol size distribution remained rapid for at least five hours after the fire: during this period the growth rate of the aerosol particle count mean diameter (size range 12 to 840 nm) was 24 nm h-1 for daytime plumes and 8 nm h-1 for night time plumes. The difference in the day and night time growth rate shows that photochemical reactions significantly increase the condensable vapour concentration in the plume. Furthermore, the condensable vapour concentration was found to affect both the number and size of particles larger than 100 nm; if this is not accounted for the current emission factors may underestimate the CCN-sized particle yield from savannah fires by a factor of two to three. Acknowledgements This research was supported by the Academy of Finland under the project Atmospheric monitoring capacity building in Southern Africa (project number 132640), by the Saastamoinen säätiö, by the North-West University and by the Academy of Finland Center of Excellence program (project number 1118615). References IPCC, Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, 2007. Pope, C. A., and Dockery, D. W.: Health effects of fine particulate air pollution: lines that connect, J Air Waste Manag. Assoc., 56, 709-742, 2006. Swap, R. J., Annegarn, H. J., Suttles, J. T., King, M. D., Platnick, S., Privette, J. L., and Scholes, R. J.: Africa burning: A thematic analysis of the Southern African Regional Science Initiative (SAFARI 2000), J. Geophys. Res., 108, 8465, doi:10.1029/2003JD003747, 2003. Vakkari, V., Beukes, J. P., Laakso, H., Mabaso, D., Pienaar, J. J., Kulmala, M., and Laakso, L.: Long-term observations of aerosol size distributions in semi-clean and polluted savannah in South Africa, Atmos. Chem. Phys. Discuss., 12, 24043-24093, doi:10.5194/acpd-12-24043-2012, 2012.
Method for Location of An External Dump in Surface Mining Using the A-Star Algorithm
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zajączkowski, Maciej; Kasztelewicz, Zbigniew; Sikora, Mateusz
2014-10-01
The construction of a surface mine always involves the necessity of accessing deposits through the removal of the residual overburden above. In the beginning phase of exploitation, the masses of overburden are located outside the perimeters of the excavation site, on the external dump, until the moment of internal dumping. In the case of lignite surface mines, these dumps can cover a ground surface of several dozen to a few thousand hectares. This results from a high concentration of lignite extraction, counted in millions of Mg per year, and the relatively large depth of its residual deposits. Determining the best place for the location of an external dump requires a detailed analysis of existing options, followed by a choice of the most favorable one. This article, using the case study of an open-cast lignite mine, presents the selection method for an external dump location based on graph theory and the A-star algorithm. This algorithm, based on the spatial distribution of individual intersections on the graph, seeks specified graph states, continually expanding them with additional elementary fields until the required surface area for the external dump - defined by the lowest value of the occupied site - is achieved. To do this, it is necessary to accurately identify the factors affecting the choice of dump location. On such a basis, it is then possible to specify the target function, which reflects the individual costs of dump construction on a given site. This is discussed further in chapter 3. The area of potential dump location has been divided into elementary fields, each represented by a corresponding geometrical locus. Ascribed to this locus, in addition to its geodesic coordinates, are the appropriate attributes reflecting the degree of development of its elementary field. These tasks can be carried out automatically thanks to the integration of the method with the system of geospatial data management for the given area. The collection of loci, together with geodesic coordinates, constitutes the points on the graph used during exploration. This is done using the A-star algorithm, which uses a heuristic function, allowing it to identify the optimal solution; therefore, the collection of elementary fields, which occupy the potential construction area of a dump, characterized by the lowest value representing the cost of occupation and dumping of overburden in the area. The precision of the boundary, generated by the algorithm, is dependent on the established size of the elementary field, and should be refined each time by the designer of the surface mine. This article presents the application of the above method of dump location using the example of "Tomisławice," a lignite surface mine owned by PAK KWB Konin S. A. The method made it possible to identify the most favorable dump location on the northeast side of the initial pit, within 2 kilometers of its surrounding area (discussed further in chapter 3). This method is universal in nature and, after certain modifications, can be implemented for other surface mines as well.
Whishaw, Ian Q.; Gorny, Boguslaw P.
2009-01-01
Piloting and dead reckoning navigation strategies use very different cue constellations and computational processes (Darwin, 1873; Barlow, 1964; O’Keefe and Nadel, 1978; Mittelstaedt and Mittelstaedt, 1980; Landeau et al., 1984; Etienne, 1987; Gallistel, 1990; Maurer and Séguinot, 1995). Piloting requires the use of the relationships between relatively stable external (visual, olfactory, auditory) cues, whereas dead reckoning requires the integration of cues generated by self-movement. Animals obtain self-movement information from vestibular receptors, and possibly muscle and joint receptors, and efference copy of commands that generate movement. An animal may also use the flows of visual, auditory, and olfactory stimuli caused by its movements. Using a piloting strategy an animal can use geometrical calculations to determine directions and distances to places in its environment, whereas using an dead reckoning strategy it can integrate cues generated by its previous movements to return to a just left location. Dead reckoning is colloquially called "sense of direction" and "sense of distance." Although there is considerable evidence that the hippocampus is involved in piloting (O’Keefe and Nadel, 1978; O’Keefe and Speakman, 1987), there is also evidence from behavioral (Whishaw et al., 1997; Whishaw and Maaswinkel, 1998; Maaswinkel and Whishaw, 1999), modeling (Samsonovich and McNaughton, 1997), and electrophysiological (O’Mare et al., 1994; Sharp et al., 1995; Taube and Burton, 1995; Blair and Sharp, 1996; McNaughton et al., 1996; Wiener, 1996; Golob and Taube, 1997) studies that the hippocampal formation is involved in dead reckoning. The relative contribution of the hippocampus to the two forms of navigation is still uncertain, however. Ordinarily, it is difficult to be certain that an animal is using a piloting versus a dead reckoning strategy because animals are very flexible in their use of strategies and cues (Etienne et al., 1996; Dudchenko et al., 1997; Martin et al., 1997; Maaswinkel and Whishaw, 1999). The objective of the present video demonstrations was to solve the problem of cue specification in order to examine the relative contribution of the hippocampus in the use of these strategies. The rats were trained in a new task in which they followed linear or polygon scented trails to obtain a large food pellet hidden on an open field. Because rats have a proclivity to carry the food back to the refuge, accuracy and the cues used to return to the home base were dependent variables (Whishaw and Tomie, 1997). To force an animal to use a a dead reckoning strategy to reach its refuge with the food, the rats were tested when blindfolded or under infrared light, a spectral wavelength in which they cannot see, and in some experiments the scent trail was additionally removed once an animal reached the food. To examine the relative contribution of the hippocampus, fimbria–fornix (FF) lesions, which disrupt information flow in the hippocampal formation (Bland, 1986), impair memory (Gaffan and Gaffan, 1991), and produce spatial deficits (Whishaw and Jarrard, 1995), were used. PMID:19398947
12th WINFOCUS world congress on ultrasound in emergency and critical care.
Acar, Yahya; Tezel, Onur; Salman, Necati; Cevik, Erdem; Algaba-Montes, Margarita; Oviedo-García, Alberto; Patricio-Bordomás, Mayra; Mahmoud, Mustafa Z; Sulieman, Abdelmoneim; Ali, Abbas; Mustafa, Alrayah; Abdelrahman, Ihab; Bahar, Mustafa; Ali, Osama; Lester Kirchner, H; Prosen, Gregor; Anzic, Ajda; Leeson, Paul; Bahreini, Maryam; Rasooli, Fatemeh; Hosseinnejad, Houman; Blecher, Gabriel; Meek, Robert; Egerton-Warburton, Diana; Ćuti, Edina Ćatić; Belina, Stanko; Vančina, Tihomir; Kovačević, Idriz; Rustemović, Nadan; Chang, Ikwan; Lee, Jin Hee; Kwak, Young Ho; Kim, Do Kyun; Cheng, Chi-Yung; Pan, Hsiu-Yung; Kung, Chia-Te; Ćurčić, Ela; Pritišanac, Ena; Planinc, Ivo; Medić, Marijana Grgić; Radonić, Radovan; Fasina, Abiola; Dean, Anthony J; Panebianco, Nova L; Henwood, Patricia S; Fochi, Oliviero; Favarato, Moreno; Bonanomi, Ezio; Tomić, Ivan; Ha, Youngrock; Toh, Hongchuen; Harmon, Elizabeth; Chan, Wilma; Baston, Cameron; Morrison, Gail; Shofer, Frances; Hua, Angela; Kim, Sharon; Tsung, James; Gunaydin, Isa; Kekec, Zeynep; Ay, Mehmet Oguzhan; Kim, Jinjoo; Kim, Jinhyun; Choi, Gyoosung; Shim, Dowon; Lee, Ji-Han; Ambrozic, Jana; Prokselj, Katja; Lucovnik, Miha; Simenc, Gabrijela Brzan; Mačiulienė, Asta; Maleckas, Almantas; Kriščiukaitis, Algimantas; Mačiulis, Vytautas; Macas, Andrius; Mohite, Sharad; Narancsik, Zoltan; Možina, Hugon; Nikolić, Sara; Hansel, Jan; Petrovčič, Rok; Mršić, Una; Orlob, Simon; Lerchbaumer, Markus; Schönegger, Niklas; Kaufmann, Reinhard; Pan, Chun-I; Wu, Chien-Hung; Pasquale, Sarah; Doniger, Stephanie J; Yellin, Sharon; Chiricolo, Gerardo; Potisek, Maja; Drnovšek, Borut; Leskovar, Boštjan; Robinson, Kristine; Kraft, Clara; Moser, Benjamin; Davis, Stephen; Layman, Shelley; Sayeed, Yusef; Minardi, Joseph; Pasic, Irmina Sefic; Dzananovic, Amra; Pasic, Anes; Zubovic, Sandra Vegar; Hauptman, Ana Godan; Brajkovic, Ana Vujaklija; Babel, Jaksa; Peklic, Marina; Radonic, Vedran; Bielen, Luka; Ming, Peh Wee; Yezid, Nur Hafiza; Mohammed, Fatahul Laham; Huda, Zainal Abidin; Ismail, Wan Nasarudin Wan; Isa, W Yus Haniff W; Fauzi, Hashairi; Seeva, Praveena; Mazlan, Mohd Zulfakar
2016-09-01
A1 Point-of-care ultrasound examination of cervical spine in emergency departmentYahya Acar, Onur Tezel, Necati SalmanA2 A new technique in verifying the placement of a nasogastric tube: obtaining the longitudinal view of nasogastric tube in addition to transverse view with ultrasoundYahya Acar, Necati Salman, Onur Tezel, Erdem CevikA3 Pseudoaneurysm of the femoral artery after cannulation of a central venous line. Should we always use ultrasound in these procedures?Margarita Algaba-Montes, Alberto Oviedo-García, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA4 Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular subclavian vein catheterization. A novel approach in emergency departmentMargarita Algaba-Montes, Alberto Oviedo-García, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA5 Clinical ultrasound in a septic and jaundice patient in the emergency departmentMargarita Algaba-Montes, Alberto Oviedo-García, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA6 Characterization of the eyes in preoperative cataract Saudi patients by using medical diagnostic ultrasoundMustafa Z. Mahmoud, Abdelmoneim SuliemanA7 High-frequency ultrasound in determining the causes of acute shoulder joint painMustafa Z. MahmoudA8 Teaching WINFOCUS Ultrasound Life Support Basic Level 1 for Providers in resource-limited countriesAbbas Ali, Alrayah Mustafa, Ihab Abdelrahman, Mustafa Bahar, Osama Ali, H. Lester Kirchner, Gregor ProsenA9 Changes of arterial stiffness and endothelial function during uncomplicated pregnancyAjda Anzic, Paul LeesonA10 Cardiovascular haemodynamic properties before, during and after pregnancyAjda Anzic, Paul LeesonA11 An old man with generalized weaknessMaryam Bahreini, Fatemeh RasooliA12 Ultrasonography for non-specific presentations of abdominal painMaryam Bahreini, Houman HosseinnejadA13 Introduction of a new imaging guideline for suspected renal colic in the emergency department: effect on CT Urogram utilisationGabriel Blecher, Robert Meek, Diana Egerton-WarburtonA14 Transabdominal ultrasound screening for pancreatic cancer in Croatian military veterans: a retrospective analysis from the first Croatian veteran's hospitalEdina Ćatić Ćuti, Stanko Belina, Tihomir Vančina, Idriz KovačevićA15 The challenge of AAA: unusual case of obstructive jaundiceEdina Ćatić Ćuti, Nadan RustemovićA16 Educational effectiveness of easy-made new simulator model for ultrasound-guided procedures in pediatric patients: vascular access and foreign body managementIkwan Chang, Jin Hee Lee, Young Ho Kwak, Do Kyun KimA17 Detection of uterine rupture by point-of-care ultrasound at emergency department: a case reportChi-Yung Cheng, Hsiu-Yung Pan, Chia-Te KungA18 Abdominal probe in the hands of interns as a relevant diagnostic tool in revealing the cause of heart failureEla Ćurčić, Ena Pritišanac, Ivo Planinc, Marijana Grgić Medić, Radovan RadonićA19 Needs assessment of the potential utility of point-of-care ultrasound within the Zanzibar health systemAbiola Fasina, Anthony J. Dean, Nova L. Panebianco, Patricia S. HenwoodA20 Ultrasonographic diagnosis of tracheal compressionOliviero Fochi, Moreno Favarato, Ezio BonanomiA21 The role of ultrasound in the detection of lung infiltrates in critically ill patients: a pilot studyMarijana Grgić Medić, Ivan Tomić, Radovan RadonićA22 The SAFER Lasso; a novel approach using point-of-care ultrasound to evaluate patients with abdominal complaints in the emergency departmentYoungrock Ha, Hongchuen TohA23 Awareness and use of clinician-performed ultrasound among clinical clerkship facultyElizabeth Harmon, Wilma Chan, Cameron Baston, Gail Morrison, Frances Shofer, Nova Panebianco, Anthony J. DeanA24 Clinical outcomes in the use of lung ultrasound for the diagnosis of pediatric pneumoniasAngela Hua, Sharon Kim, James TsungA25 Effectiveness of ultrasound in hypotensive patientsIsa Gunaydin, Zeynep Kekec, Mehmet Oguzhan AyA26 Moderate-to-severe left ventricular ejection fraction related to short-term mortality of patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome after out-of-hospital cardiac arrestJinjoo Kim, Jinhyun Kim, Gyoosung Choi, Dowon ShimA27 Usefulness of abdominal ultrasound for acute pyelonephritis diagnosis after kidney transplantationJi-Han LeeA28 Lung ultrasound for assessing fluid tolerance in severe preeclampsiaJana Ambrozic, Katja Prokselj, Miha LucovnikA29 Optic nerve sheath ultrasound in severe preeclampsiaGabrijela Brzan Simenc, Jana Ambrozic, Miha LucovnikA30 Focused echocardiography monitoring in the postoperative period for non-cardiac patientsAsta Mačiulienė, Almantas Maleckas, Algimantas Kriščiukaitis, Vytautas Mačiulis, Andrius MacasA31 POCUS-guided paediatric upper limb fracture reduction: algorithm, tricks, and tipsSharad MohiteA32 Point-of-care lung ultrasound: a good diagnostic tool for pneumonia in a septic patientZoltan Narancsik, Hugon MožinaA33 A case of undergraduate POCUS (r)evolutionSara Nikolić, Jan Hansel, Rok Petrovčič, Una Mršić, Gregor ProsenA34 The Graz Summer School for ultrasound: from first contact to bedside application: three-and-a-half-day undergraduate ultrasound training: résumé after two years of continuous developmentSimon Orlob, Markus Lerchbaumer, Niklas Schönegger, Reinhard KaufmannA35 Usefulness of point-of-care ultrasound in the emergency room in a patient with acute abdominal painAlberto Oviedo-García, Margarita Algaba-Montes, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA36 Use of bedside ultrasound in a critically ill patient. A case reportAlberto Oviedo-García, Margarita Algaba-Montes, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA37 Diagnostic yield of clinical echocardiography for the emergency physicianAlberto Oviedo-García, Margarita Algaba-Montes, Mayra Patricio-BordomásA38 Focused cardiac ultrasound in early diagnosis of type A aortic dissection with atypical presentationChun-I Pan, Hsiu-Yung Pan, Chien-Hung WuA39 Detection of imperforated hymen by point-of-care ultrasoundHsiu-yung Pan, Chia-Te KungA40 Developing a point-of-care ultrasound curriculum for pediatric nurse practitioners practicing in the pediatric emergency departmentSarah Pasquale, Stephanie J. Doniger, Sharon Yellin, Gerardo ChiricoloA41 Use of transthoracic echocardiography in emergency setting: patient with mitral valve abscessMaja Potisek, Borut Drnovšek, Boštjan LeskovarA42 A young man with syncopeFatemeh Rasooli, Maryam BahreiniA43 Work-related repetitive use injuries in ultrasound fellowsKristine Robinson, Clara Kraft, Benjamin Moser, Stephen Davis, Shelley Layman, Yusef Sayeed, Joseph MinardiA44 Lung ultrasonography in the evaluation of pneumonia in childrenIrmina Sefic Pasic, Amra Dzananovic, Anes Pasic, Sandra Vegar ZubovicA45 Central venous catheter placement with the ultrasound aid: two years' experience of the Interventional unit, Division of Intensive Care Medicine, KBC ZagrebAna Godan Hauptman, Marijana Grgic Medic, Ivan Tomic, Ana Vujaklija Brajkovic, Jaksa Babel, Marina Peklic, Radovan RadonicA46 Duplicitas casui: two patients admitted due to acute liver failureVedran Radonic, Ivan Tomic, Luka Bielen, Marijana Grgic MedicA47 A pilot survey on an understanding of Bedside Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) among medical doctors in internal medicine: exposure, perceptions, interest, and barriers to trainingPeh Wee MingA48 Unusual case of defecation syncopeNur hafiza Yezid, Fatahul Laham MohammedA49 A case report of massive pulmonary embolism; a multidisciplinary approachZainal Abidin Huda, Wan Nasarudin Wan Ismail, W.Yus Haniff W.Isa, Hashairi Fauzi, Praveena Seeva, Mohd Zulfakar Mazlan.