Thelytokous parthenogenesis by queens in the dacetine ant Pyramica membranifera (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).

PubMed

Ito, Fuminori; Touyama, Yoshifumi; Gotoh, Ayako; Kitahiro, Shungo; Billen, Johan

2010-08-01

Thelytokous parthenogenesis in which diploid females are produced from unfertilized eggs, was recently reported for some ant species. Here, we document thelytokous reproduction by queens in the polygynous species Pyramica membranifera. Queens that emerged in the laboratory were kept with or without workers under laboratory conditions. Independent colony founding was successful for a few queens if prey was provided. All artificial colonies, which started with a newly emerged queen and workers produced new workers and some of the colonies also produced female sexuals. Some of the female sexuals shed their wings in the laboratory and started formation of new polygynous colonies. Workers had no ovaries and thus, were obligatorily sterile.

Thelytokous parthenogenesis by queens in the dacetine ant Pyramica membranifera (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, Fuminori; Touyama, Yoshifumi; Gotoh, Ayako; Kitahiro, Shungo; Billen, Johan

2010-08-01

Thelytokous parthenogenesis in which diploid females are produced from unfertilized eggs, was recently reported for some ant species. Here, we document thelytokous reproduction by queens in the polygynous species Pyramica membranifera. Queens that emerged in the laboratory were kept with or without workers under laboratory conditions. Independent colony founding was successful for a few queens if prey was provided. All artificial colonies, which started with a newly emerged queen and workers produced new workers and some of the colonies also produced female sexuals. Some of the female sexuals shed their wings in the laboratory and started formation of new polygynous colonies. Workers had no ovaries and thus, were obligatorily sterile.

40 CFR 262.208 - Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Entities § 262.208 Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory. (a) Removing containers of unwanted material on a regular schedule. An eligible academic entity... months of each container's accumulation start date. (b) The eligible academic entity must specify in Part...

40 CFR 262.208 - Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Entities § 262.208 Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory. (a) Removing containers of unwanted material on a regular schedule. An eligible academic entity... months of each container's accumulation start date. (b) The eligible academic entity must specify in Part...

40 CFR 262.208 - Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Entities § 262.208 Removing containers of unwanted material from the laboratory. (a) Removing containers of unwanted material on a regular schedule. An eligible academic entity... months of each container's accumulation start date. (b) The eligible academic entity must specify in Part...

Effect of Introducing Xpert MTB/RIF to Test and Treat Individuals at Risk of Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis in Kazakhstan: A Prospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

van Kampen, Sanne Christine; Tursynbayeva, Aigul; Koptleuova, Aliya; Murzakhmetova, Zauresh; Murzabekova, Zauresh; Bigalieva, Lyazzat; Aubakirova, Moldir; Pak, Svetlana; van den Hof, Susan

2015-01-01

Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) was piloted in Kazakhstan to detect tuberculosis (TB) and rifampicin resistance (RR-)TB among individuals at risk of multidrug-resistant (MDR-) TB. This study assessed the performance of Xpert compared to conventional diagnostic methods, RR-TB case detection among various risk groups, treatment initiation and time to diagnosis and treatment. Eligible individuals were tested with Xpert, smear microscopy, culture and drug-susceptibility testing (DST) at the national TB reference laboratory and three provincial laboratories. Data was collected prospectively from August 2012 to May 2013 from routine laboratory and treatment registers. A total of 5,611 Xpert tests were performed mostly targeting contacts of MDR-TB patients, 'other' presumptive MDR-TB patients, and retreatment cases (26%, 24% and 22%, respectively). Compared to phenotypic DST, the positive predictive value of Xpert to detect RR-TB was 93.1% and 96.4% and the negative predictive value was 94.6% and 92.7% using solid and liquid culture media, respectively. RR-TB detection was highest among (former) prisoners, retreatment cases, people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), and TB patients with positive smears after intensive phase of treatment (59%, 58%, 54% and 53% among TB positives, respectively). 88.9% of RR-TB patients were registered to have started second-line TB treatment. Median time to diagnosis with Xpert was 0.0 days (IQR 0.0-1.0), time from diagnosis to start of first-line treatment 3.0 days (IQR 1.0-7.0), and to start of second-line treatment 7.0 days (IQR 4.0-16). Compared to conventional culture and DST, Xpert had a shorter result turn-around-time and excellent concordance to detect RR-TB. Time from sputum collection to start of second-line treatment was reduced to one week. The yield of Xpert could be maximized by increasing referrals from penitentiary and HIV centers to TB centers.

Fifty years of accelerator based physics at Chalk River

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

McKay, John W.

1999-04-26

The Chalk River Laboratories of Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. was a major centre for Accelerator based physics for the last fifty years. As early as 1946, nuclear structure studies were started on Cockroft-Walton accelerators. A series of accelerators followed, including the world's first Tandem, and the MP Tandem, Superconducting Cyclotron (TASCC) facility that was opened in 1986. The nuclear physics program was shut down in 1996. This paper will describe some of the highlights of the accelerators and the research of the laboratory.

The Starting Place: English, Reading.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Monyek, Arlyne

A description is presented of the reading laboratory course for secondary school students on reading levels three through nine in the Dade County, Florida, public schools. The course includes diagnosis of specific reading needs, and teaching word recognition, comprehension, and study skills. Classroom organization for the course focuses on…

Conducting a surveillance problem analysis on poor feedback from Reference Laboratory, Liberia, February 2016.

PubMed

Frimpong, Joseph Asamoah; Amo-Addae, Maame Pokuah; Adewuyi, Peter Adebayo; Hall, Casey Daniel; Park, Meeyoung Mattie; Nagbe, Thomas Knue

2017-01-01

The laboratory plays a major role in surveillance, including confirming the start and end of an outbreak. Knowing the causative agent for an outbreak informs the development of response strategies and management plans for a public health event. However, issues and challenges may arise that limit the effectiveness or efficiency of laboratories in surveillance. This case study applies a systematic approach to analyse gaps in laboratory surveillance, thereby improving the ability to mitigate these gaps. Although this case study concentrates on factors resulting in poor feedback from the laboratory, practise of this general approach to problem analysis will confer skills required in analysing most public health issues. This case study was developed based on a report submitted by the district surveillance officer in Grand Bassa County, Liberia, as a resident of the Liberian Frontline Field Epidemiology Training Program in 2016. This case study will serve as a training tool to reinforce lectures on surveillance problem analysis using the fishbone approach. It is designed for public health training in a classroom setting and can be completed within 2 hours 30 minutes.

Combustion and Energy Transfer Experiments: A Laboratory Model for Linking Core Concepts across the Science Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barreto, Jose C.; Dubetz, Terry A.; Schmidt, Diane L.; Isern, Sharon; Beatty, Thomas; Brown, David W.; Gillman, Edward; Alberte, Randall S.; Egiebor, Nosa O.

2007-01-01

Core concepts can be integrated throughout lower-division science and engineering courses by using a series of related, cross-referenced laboratory experiments. Starting with butane combustion in chemistry, the authors expanded the underlying core concepts of energy transfer into laboratories designed for biology, physics, and engineering. This…

Fact Sheet on How to Get Started Managing Hazardous Waste Laboratory Waste Under the Alternative Set of Generator Regulations

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Fact sheet to help academic laboratories decide whether to opt into the alternate set of hazardous waste requirements for eligible academic laboratories found in RCRA subpart K, how to plan for the transition to subpart K, and what first steps to take.

Very large hadron collider (VLHC)

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

NONE

1998-09-01

A VLHC informal study group started to come together at Fermilab in the fall of 1995 and at the 1996 Snowmass Study the parameters of this machine took form. The VLHC as now conceived would be a 100 TeV hadron collider. It would use the Fermilab Main Injector (now nearing completion) to inject protons at 150 GeV into a new 3 TeV Booster and then into a superconducting pp collider ring producing 100 TeV c.m. interactions. A luminosity of {approximately}10{sup 34} cm{sup -2}s{sup -1} is planned. Our plans were presented to the Subpanel on the Planning for the Future ofmore » US High- Energy Physics (the successor to the Drell committee) and in February 1998 their report stated ``The Subpanel recommends an expanded program of R&D on cost reduction strategies, enabling technologies, and accelerator physics issues for a VLHC. These efforts should be coordinated across laboratory and university groups with the aim of identifying design concepts for an economically and technically viable facility`` The coordination has been started with the inclusion of physicists from Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), and Cornell University. Clearly, this collaboration must expanded internationally as well as nationally. The phrase ``economically and technically viable facility`` presents the real challenge.« less

Biogasification products of water hyacinth wastewater reclamation

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

Chynoweth, D.P.; Biljetina, R.; Srivastava, V.J.

1984-01-01

This paper describes the results of research in progress to evaluate the use of water hyacinth for wastewater treatment and subsequent conversion of hyacinth and sludge to methane by anaerobic digestion. Laboratory studies have been directed toward evaluating advanced biogasification concepts and establishing a data base for the design and operation of an experimental test unit (ETU) located at the water hyacinth wastewater treatment facility at Walt Disney World (WDW) located in Kissimmee, Florida. Laboratory-scale kinetic experiments have been conducted using continuously-stirred tank reactors (CSTR) and a novel non-mixed upflow solids reactor (USR) receiving a hyacinth/sludge blend at retention timesmore » of 15 down to 2.1 days. The data suggest that best performance is achieved in the USR which has longer solids and organism retention. A larger-scale ETU (160 cu ft) was designed and installed at WDW in 1983 and started up in 1984. The purpose of this unit is to validate laboratory experiments and to evaluate larger-scale equipment used for chopping, slurry preparation, mixing, and effluent dewatering. The ETU includes a front end designed for multiple feed processing and storage, a fully instrumented USR digester, and tanks for effluent and gas storage. The ETU is currently being operated on a 2:1 blend (dry wt basis) of water hyacinth and primary sludge. Performance is good without major operational problems. Results of laboratory studies and start-up and operation of the ETU will be presented. 7 references, 4 figures, 1 table.« less

Calling behavior of mass-reared and wild Anastrepha serpentina (Diptera: Tephritidae).

PubMed

Castrejón-Gómez, Victor R; Lascares, Shaila; Malo, Edi A; Toledo, Jorge; Rojas, Julio C

2007-08-01

The calling behavior of mass-reared and wild males of Anastrepha serpentina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) was studied both in the laboratory and in field cage tests. In the laboratory, density (1, 5, and 10 males per container), age, and hour of day significantly affected calling behavior. Mass-reared males called independently of density, whereas wild males only called at densities of 5 and 10 individuals. Males of both strains started calling when they were 5-7 d old. The daily pattern of male calling was similar in both strains, starting at 0730 hours, and reaching a peak at 1330-1630 hours. Field cage tests showed that mass-reared males started calling when they were 5d old; the period of peak calling was when males were 8-9 d old. In contrast, wild males began calling when they were 10 d old, reaching peaks when males were 13, 15, and 18 d old. Wild males tended to form leks to call during each day of the experiment, whereas mass-reared males only formed leks during 2 d, both strains displaying very low levels. During field cage tests, males, independently of strain, displayed two calling peaks, one peak in the morning and one peak in the afternoon, whereas males observed in the laboratory only showed a single calling peak. The results are discussed in view of the effects of mass rearing A. serpentina males in relation to potential use of the sterile insect technique.

Impact of lean six sigma process improvement methodology on cardiac catheterization laboratory efficiency.

PubMed

Agarwal, Shikhar; Gallo, Justin J; Parashar, Akhil; Agarwal, Kanika K; Ellis, Stephen G; Khot, Umesh N; Spooner, Robin; Murat Tuzcu, Emin; Kapadia, Samir R

2016-03-01

Operational inefficiencies are ubiquitous in several healthcare processes. To improve the operational efficiency of our catheterization laboratory (Cath Lab), we implemented a lean six sigma process improvement initiative, starting in June 2010. We aimed to study the impact of lean six sigma implementation on improving the efficiency and the patient throughput in our Cath Lab. All elective and urgent cardiac catheterization procedures including diagnostic coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary interventions, structural interventions and peripheral interventions performed between June 2009 and December 2012 were included in the study. Performance metrics utilized for analysis included turn-time, physician downtime, on-time patient arrival, on-time physician arrival, on-time start and manual sheath-pulls inside the Cath Lab. After implementation of lean six sigma in the Cath Lab, we observed a significant improvement in turn-time, physician downtime, on-time patient arrival, on-time physician arrival, on-time start as well as sheath-pulls inside the Cath Lab. The percentage of cases with optimal turn-time increased from 43.6% in 2009 to 56.6% in 2012 (p-trend<0.001). Similarly, the percentage of cases with an aggregate on-time start increased from 41.7% in 2009 to 62.8% in 2012 (p-trend<0.001). In addition, the percentage of manual sheath-pulls performed in the Cath Lab decreased from 60.7% in 2009 to 22.7% in 2012 (p-trend<0.001). The current longitudinal study illustrates the impact of successful implementation of a well-known process improvement initiative, lean six sigma, on improving and sustaining efficiency of our Cath Lab operation. After the successful implementation of this continuous quality improvement initiative, there was a significant improvement in the selected performance metrics namely turn-time, physician downtime, on-time patient arrival, on-time physician arrival, on-time start as well as sheath-pulls inside the Cath Lab. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Isolation of Soybean Agglutinin (SBA) from Soy Meal.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sattsangi, Prem D.; And Others

1982-01-01

Describes a straight-forward and relatively inexpensive method for routine isolation of purified soybean agglutinin, suitable for use as a starting material in most studies, especially for fluorescent-labeling experiments. The process is used as a project to provide advanced laboratory training at a two-year college. (Author/JN)

Solar Collector Design Optimization: A Hands-on Project Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birnie, Dunbar P., III; Kaz, David M.; Berman, Elena A.

2012-01-01

A solar power collector optimization design project has been developed for use in undergraduate classrooms and/or laboratories. The design optimization depends on understanding the current-voltage characteristics of the starting photovoltaic cells as well as how the cell's electrical response changes with increased light illumination. Students…

Scientific investigation in deep wells for nuclear waste disposal studies at the Meuse/Haute Marne underground research laboratory, Northeastern France

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delay, Jacques; Rebours, Hervé; Vinsot, Agnès; Robin, Pierre

Andra, the French National Radioactive Waste Management Agency, is constructing an underground test facility to study the feasibility of a radioactive waste disposal in the Jurassic-age Callovo-Oxfordian argillites. This paper describes the processes, the methods and results of a scientific characterization program carried out from the surface via deep boreholes with the aim to build a research facility for radioactive waste disposal. In particular this paper shows the evolution of the drilling programs and the borehole set up due to the refinement of the scientific objectives from 1994 to 2004. The pre-investigation phase on the Meuse/Haute-Marne site started in 1994. It consisted in drilling seven scientific boreholes. This phase, completed in 1996, led to the first regional geological cross-section showing the main geometrical characteristics of the host rock. Investigations on the laboratory site prior to the sinking of two shafts started in November 1999. The sinking of the shafts started in September 2000 with the auxiliary shaft completed in October 2004. The experimental gallery, at a depth of 445 m in the main shaft, was in operation by end 2004. During the construction of the laboratory, two major scientific programs were initiated to improve the existing knowledge of the regional hydrogeological characteristics and to accelerate the process of data acquisition on the shales. The aim of the 2003 hydrogeological drilling program was to determine, at regional scale, the properties of groundwater transport and to sample the water in the Oxfordian and Dogger limestones. The 2003-2004 programs consisted in drilling nine deep boreholes, four of which were slanted, to achieve an accurate definition of the structural features.

Green Chemistry Decision-Making in an Upper-Level Undergraduate Organic Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edgar, Landon J. G.; Koroluk, Katherine J.; Golmakani, Mehrnaz; Dicks, Andrew P.

2014-01-01

A self-directed independent synthesis experiment was developed for a third-year undergraduate organic laboratory. Students were provided with the CAS numbers of starting and target compounds and devised a synthetic plan to be executed over two 4.5 h laboratory periods. They consulted the primary literature in order to develop and carry out an…

Improving patient safety through quality assurance.

PubMed

Raab, Stephen S

2006-05-01

Anatomic pathology laboratories use several quality assurance tools to detect errors and to improve patient safety. To review some of the anatomic pathology laboratory patient safety quality assurance practices. Different standards and measures in anatomic pathology quality assurance and patient safety were reviewed. Frequency of anatomic pathology laboratory error, variability in the use of specific quality assurance practices, and use of data for error reduction initiatives. Anatomic pathology error frequencies vary according to the detection method used. Based on secondary review, a College of American Pathologists Q-Probes study showed that the mean laboratory error frequency was 6.7%. A College of American Pathologists Q-Tracks study measuring frozen section discrepancy found that laboratories improved the longer they monitored and shared data. There is a lack of standardization across laboratories even for governmentally mandated quality assurance practices, such as cytologic-histologic correlation. The National Institutes of Health funded a consortium of laboratories to benchmark laboratory error frequencies, perform root cause analysis, and design error reduction initiatives, using quality assurance data. Based on the cytologic-histologic correlation process, these laboratories found an aggregate nongynecologic error frequency of 10.8%. Based on gynecologic error data, the laboratory at my institution used Toyota production system processes to lower gynecologic error frequencies and to improve Papanicolaou test metrics. Laboratory quality assurance practices have been used to track error rates, and laboratories are starting to use these data for error reduction initiatives.

Rapid start-up of one-stage deammonification MBBR without addition of external inoculum.

PubMed

Kanders, Linda; Ling, Daniel; Nehrenheim, Emma

2016-12-01

In recent years, the anammox process has emerged as a useful method for robust and efficient nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This paper evaluates a one-stage deammonification (nitritation and anammox) start-up using carrier material without using anammox inoculum. A continuous laboratory-scale process was followed by full-scale operation with reject water from the digesters at Bekkelaget WWTP in Oslo, Norway. A third laboratory reactor was run in operational mode to verify the suitability of reject water from thermophilic digestion for the deammonification process. The two start-ups presented were run with indigenous bacterial populations, intermittent aeration and dilution, to favour growth of the anammox bacterial branches. Evaluation was done by chemical and fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses. The results demonstrate that anammox culture can be set up in a one-stage process only using indigenous anammox bacteria and that a full-scale start-up process can be completed in less than 120 days.

Use of models to study forest fire behavior

Treesearch

Wallace L. Fons

1961-01-01

The U.S. Forest Service has started a laboratory study with the ultimate objective of determining model laws for fire behavior. The study includes an examination of the effect of such variables as species of wood, density of wood, moisture content, size of fuel particle, spacing, dimensions of fuel bed, wind, and slope on the rate of spread of fire and the partition of...

Having your cake and eating it too; effective engagement in start-ups from an academic seat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirkin, Chad

2012-02-01

In order for scientific advances to have a positive impact on society, they must be successfully transitioned from conceptually fundamental endeavors in academic research laboratories to valuable enabling technologies at start-up companies. Nanosphere, NanoInk, and AuraSense are three start-up companies that have been spun out of Northwestern based on research initiated in my laboratory. These companies are focused on commercializing nanotechnology-based applications in the life science and semiconductor industries and have turned discoveries from my lab into viable commercial products. For example, several of the systems developed at these start-ups are in the clinical trial phase, with one already approved by the FDA, and they are poised to have a positive world-wide impact. Herein, I discuss the challenges associated with identifying commercial value in academic research projects, securing intellectual property, forming a company as a legal entity, and locating sources of start-up funds. Further, I will discuss the rewards of venturing into such enterprises and the ways of ensuring a start-up company's long-term success, while juggling the numerous responsibilities of an academic seat. I argue that these two activities are done not in competition, but rather are integral for driving the type of high-level, synergistic scientific research that is being done today.

[Technology transfer between academic laboratories and industrial laboratories: licensing].

PubMed

Salauze, D

2010-09-01

The time when academic and industrial research were operating in two separate worlds is now over. Technology transfer from one to the other is now frequent and organized. It starts by filing a patent. Of course, provided the amounts at stake for developing a product, especially in the healthcare field, a non patent-protected invention has virtually no chance of eventually reaching the community. But this is only the first step of a long process which starts by licensing deals of which we will examine the main common clauses. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Isotopic composition of Murchison organic compounds: Intramolecular carbon isotope fractionation of acetic acid. Simulation studies of cosmochemical organic syntheses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yuen, G. U.; Cronin, J. R.; Blair, N. E.; Desmarais, D. J.; Chang, S.

1991-01-01

Recently, in our laboratories, samples of Murchison acetic acid were decarboxylated successfully and the carbon isotopic composition was measured for the methane released by this procedure. These analyses showed significant differences in C-13/C-12 ratios for the methyl and carboxyl carbons of the acetic acid molecule, strongly suggesting that more than one carbon source may be involved in the synthesis of the Murchison organic compounds. On the basis of this finding, laboratory model systems simulating cosmochemical synthesis are being studied, especially those processes capable of involving two or more starting carbon sources.

A classroom activity and laboratory on astronomical scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LoPresto, Michael

2017-10-01

The four basics "scales" at which astronomy is studied, that of (1) the Earth-Moon system, (2) the solar system, (3) the galaxy, and (4) the universe (Fig. 1), are a common place to start an intro astronomy course. In fact, courses and textbooks are often divided into approximately four sections based on these scales.

Reality Is Our Laboratory: Communities of Practice in Applied Computer Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rohde, M.; Klamma, R.; Jarke, M.; Wulf, V.

2007-01-01

The present paper presents a longitudinal study of the course "High-tech Entrepreneurship and New Media." The course design is based on socio-cultural theories of learning and considers the role of social capital in entrepreneurial networks. By integrating student teams into the communities of practice of local start-ups, we offer…

Patterns of Classroom Quality in Head Start and Center-Based Early Childhood Education Programs. REL 2017-199

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Irwin, Clare W.; Madura, John P.; Bamat, David; McDermott, Paul A.

2016-01-01

Measuring classroom quality and ensuring high-quality learning experiences for young children are interests of the Early Childhood Education Research Alliance, a research alliance of Regional Educational Laboratory Northeast & Islands. This study, conducted in collaboration with the alliance, addresses these interests by examining multiple…

A Green Starting Material for Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution for the Undergraduate Organic Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones-Wilson, T. Michelle; Burtch, Elizabeth A.

2005-01-01

Electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) experiment is designed for the second-semester and undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory. In the EAS experiment, the principles of green chemistry are discussed and illustrated in conjunction with the presentation of electrophilic aromatic substitution.

Investigations of an Environmentally Induced Long Duration Hall Thruster Start Transient (PREPRINT)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-02-06

Hall thruster start transient is produced by exposure of the thruster to ambient laboratory atmosphere. This behavior was first observed during operation of a cluster of four 200 W BHT-200 Hall effect thrusters where large anode discharge fluctuations, visible as increased anode current and a diffuse plume structure, occurred in an apparently random manner. During operation of a single thruster, the start transient appears as a quickly rising and later smoothly decaying elevated anode current with a diffuse plume that persists for less than 500 seconds. The start transient

The Venture Capital-University Interface: Best Practices for Maximum Impact

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holly, Krisztina

2010-01-01

Entrepreneurial start-ups have left an indelible impression on much of the USA's recent economic history. As hotbeds for technological innovation, university research laboratories create groundbreaking innovations that have been at the heart of many successful start-ups. However, powerful ideas do not necessarily beget successful companies: great…

[The external evaluation of study quality: the role in maintaining the reliability of laboratory information].

PubMed

Men'shikov, V V

2013-08-01

The external evaluation of quality of clinical laboratory examinations was gradually introduced in USSR medical laboratories since 1970s. In Russia, in the middle of 1990 a unified all-national system of external evaluation quality was organized known as the Federal center of external evaluation of quality at the basis of laboratory of the state research center of preventive medicine. The main positions of policy in this area were neatly formulated in the guidance documents of ministry of Health. Nowadays, the center of external evaluation of quality proposes 100 and more types of control studies and permanently extends their specter starting from interests of different disciplines of clinical medicine. The consistent participation of laboratories in the cycles of external evaluation of quality intrinsically promotes improvement of indicators of properness and precision of analysis results and increases reliability of laboratory information. However, a significant percentage of laboratories does not participate at all in external evaluation of quality or takes part in control process irregularly and in limited number of tests. The managers of a number of medical organizations disregard the application of the proposed possibilities to increase reliability of laboratory information and limit financing of studies in the field of quality control. The article proposes to adopt the national standard on the basis of ISO 17043 "Evaluation of compliance. The common requirements of professional competence testing".

Operational Efficiency and Productivity Improvement Initiatives in a Large Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory.

PubMed

Reed, Grant W; Hantz, Scott; Cunningham, Rebecca; Krishnaswamy, Amar; Ellis, Stephen G; Khot, Umesh; Rak, Joe; Kapadia, Samir R

2018-02-26

This study sought to report outcomes from an efficiency improvement project in a large cardiac cath lab. Operational inefficiencies are common in the cath lab, yet solutions are challenging. A detailed report describing and providing solutions for these inefficiencies may be valuable in guiding improvements in productivity. In this observational study, the authors report metrics of efficiency before and after a cath lab quality improvement program in June 2014. Main outcomes included lab room start times, room turnaround times, laboratory use, and employee satisfaction. Time series analysis was used to assess trend over time. Chi-square testing and analysis of variance were used to assess change before and after the initiative. The principal changes included implementation of a pyramidal nursing schedule, increased use of an electronic scheduling system, and increased utilization of a preparation and recovery area. Comparing before with after the program, start times improved an average of 17 min, and on-time starts improved from 61.8% to 81.7% (p = 0.0024). Turnaround times improved from 20.5 min to 16.4 min (trend p < 0.0001), and the proportion of days at full lab utilization improved from 7.7% to 77.3% (p < 0.00001). There were no increases in overtime, night, or weekend cases. There was a reduction in full time employees from 36.1 in 2013 to 29.6 in 2016, with an improvement in employee satisfaction. A systematic approach to reducing inefficiencies can improve cath lab start times, turnaround times, and overall productivity. This knowledge may be helpful in assisting other cath labs in similar efficiency improvement initiatives. Copyright © 2018 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Construction of the Siam Photon Laboratory and Its Ripple Effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishii, Takehiko

2004-03-01

The Siam Photon Laboratory of the National Synchrotron Research Center(NSRC) is a synchrotron radiation research facility built for promoting the scientific and technological research activity of the country and enhancing the human resources development. The accelerator complex was originally owned by the SORTEC Laboratory in Tsukuba and transferred to NSRC gratis. The storage ring design was renewed and the construction of the whole accelerator complex with the reformed storage ring was completed two years ago. In the course of the construction, we found many problems distinctive of second hand machines. The maximum stored current and the beam lifetime at present are 210mA and 6hr at 100mA, respectively. One beam line for photoemission experiments has been opened to outside users. First experimental studies made on Ni(111) by our staff members has been completed. Since the project started from scratch, NSRC was asked to carry out all work necessary for opening the facility to outside users, The work includes collecting users and setting up the users organization. In industrial applications, for instance, we have to find either some government or private sectors who are interested in the fundamantal technological research using synchrotorn radiation. Then, the training of users from the relevant organizations will start. After the establishment of the Siam Photon Laboratory, the trend of the promotion of pertinent research has increased. More fundamental human resources development including the graduate school education is underway around the Siam Photon Laboratory. The growth of enterprises as a part of the infrastructure is slow but steady.

Synthesis and Self-Assembly of the "Tennis Ball" Dimer and Subsequent Encapsulation of Methane. An Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hof, Fraser; Palmer, Liam C.; Rebek, Julius, Jr.

2001-11-01

While important to the biological and materials sciences, noncovalent interactions, self-folding, and self-assembly often receive little discussion in the undergraduate chemistry curriculum. The synthesis and NMR characterization of a molecular "tennis ball" in an advanced undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory is a simple and effective way to introduce the relevance of these concepts. In appropriate solvents, the monomer dimerizes through a seam of eight hydrogen bonds with encapsulation of a guest molecule and symmetry reminiscent of a tennis ball. The entire experiment can be completed in three lab periods, however large-scale synthetic preparation of the starting monomer by a teaching assistant would reduce the laboratory to a single lab period for NMR studies.

High β produced by neutral beam injection in the START (Small Tight Aspect Ratio Tokamak) spherical tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sykes, Alan

1997-05-01

The world's first high-power auxiliary heating experiments in a tight aspect ratio (or spherical) tokamak have been performed on the Small Tight Aspect Ratio Tokomak (START) device [Sykes et al., Nucl. Fusion 32, 694 (1992)] at Culham Laboratory, using the 40 keV, 0.5 MW Neutral Beam Injector loaned by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Injection has been mainly of hydrogen into hydrogen or deuterium target plasmas, with a one-day campaign to explore D→D operation. In each case injection provides a combination of higher density operation and effective heating of both ions and electrons. The highest β values achieved to date in START are volume average βT˜11.5% and central beta βO˜50%. Already high, these values are expected to increase further with the use of higher beam power.

Anatomy Practical Examinations: How Does Student Performance on Computerized Evaluation Compare with the Traditional Format?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inuwa, Ibrahim Muhammad; Taranikanti, Varna; Al-Rawahy, Maimouna; Habbal, Omar

2012-01-01

Practical examinations in anatomy are usually conducted on specimens in the anatomy laboratory (referred to here as the "traditional" method). Recently, we have started to administer similar examinations online using the quiz facility in Moodle[TM]. In this study, we compare student scores between two assessment environments viz. online and…

Get Your Feet Wet--Scientifically: A Guide to Water Testing as a School Science Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sattler, Edward D.; Zalkin, Larry

1989-01-01

Describes a project involving students in hands-on scientific experiment to locate and identify areas of water pollution, based on Delta Laboratories Adopt-A-Stream Program. Describes getting started, working cooperatively, community support, recording and using data. Includes data sheet, checklist, and photographs of students at study site. (TES)

SITE-SPECIFIC VALIDATION OF A CHRONIC TOXICITY TEST WITH THE AMPHIPOD HYALELLA AZTECA : AN INTEGRATED STUDY OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATED SEDIMENTS IN PEAK CREEK, VIRGINIA

EPA Science Inventory

We will measure the correspondence of endpoints from chronic toxicity tests with the amphipod, Hyalella azteca, to a series of in situ macrobenthic community endpoints, starting with those endpoints most similar to those monitored in the laboratory test, then expanding to include...

Energy Exchange by Thermal Radiation: Hints and Suggestions for an Inquiry Based Lab Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Battaglia, Onofrio Rosario; Fazio, Claudio; Pizzolato, Nicola; Mineo, Rosa Maria Sperandeo

In this paper we present some laboratory activities developed in the framework of an inquiry-based approach to the study of energy exchange by thermal radiation. These activities were developed in the context of "Establish", a FP7 European Project aimed at promoting and developing Inquiry Based Science Education in European Secondary Schools. By starting from real life students are engaged in designing and carrying out laboratory activities by collecting, processing and analysing data. Particular attention is paid in building data interpretation by taking into account the effects of parameters like the environmental temperature.

Quick clay and landslides of clayey soils.

PubMed

Khaldoun, Asmae; Moller, Peder; Fall, Abdoulaye; Wegdam, Gerard; De Leeuw, Bert; Méheust, Yves; Otto Fossum, Jon; Bonn, Daniel

2009-10-30

We study the rheology of quick clay, an unstable soil responsible for many landslides. We show that above a critical stress the material starts flowing abruptly with a very large viscosity decrease caused by the flow. This leads to avalanche behavior that accounts for the instability of quick clay soils. Reproducing landslides on a small scale in the laboratory shows that an additional factor that determines the violence of the slides is the inhomogeneity of the flow. We propose a simple yield stress model capable of reproducing the laboratory landslide data, allowing us to relate landslides to the measured rheology.

Quick Clay and Landslides of Clayey Soils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khaldoun, Asmae; Moller, Peder; Fall, Abdoulaye; Wegdam, Gerard; de Leeuw, Bert; Méheust, Yves; Otto Fossum, Jon; Bonn, Daniel

2009-10-01

We study the rheology of quick clay, an unstable soil responsible for many landslides. We show that above a critical stress the material starts flowing abruptly with a very large viscosity decrease caused by the flow. This leads to avalanche behavior that accounts for the instability of quick clay soils. Reproducing landslides on a small scale in the laboratory shows that an additional factor that determines the violence of the slides is the inhomogeneity of the flow. We propose a simple yield stress model capable of reproducing the laboratory landslide data, allowing us to relate landslides to the measured rheology.

PROJECT HEAD START MEDICAL--A GUIDE FOR DIRECTION OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Economic Opportunity, Washington, DC.

HEALTH SERVICES OF PROJECT HEAD START CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS PROVIDE--A MEDICAL EVALUATION OF EACH CHILD INCLUDING MEDICAL HISTORY, DEVELOPMENTAL ASSESSMENT, AND PHYSICAL EXAMINATION, SCREENING TESTS FOR VISION, HEARING, SPEECH, AND TUBERCULOSIS, LABORATORY TESTS OF URINE FOR ALBUMIN AND TESTS OF SUGAR AND BLOOD FOR ANEMIA, DENTAL ASSESSMENT,…

Microscale Organic Lab Course Has Many Assets.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rawls, Rebecca

1984-01-01

Describes a microscale laboratory course in which students perform many classic organic reactions using only one-hundredth to one-thousandth the amount of starting material usual in student experiments. Reduction of toxic chemicals concentration in laboratory air and savings in chemical costs and experimental time are benefits of the novel course.…

Undergraduate Introductory Quantitative Chemistry Laboratory Course: Interdisciplinary Group Projects in Phytoremediation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Engelen, Debra L.; Suljak, Steven W.; Hall, J. Patrick; Holmes, Bert E.

2007-01-01

The laboratory course around the phytoremediation is designed to develop both individual skills and promote cooperative learning while starting students work on projects in a specific area of environmental chemistry and analysis. Many research-active undergraduate institutions have developed courses, which are interdisciplinary in nature that…

Computerized Grading of Anatomy Laboratory Practical Examinations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krippendorf, Beth B.; Bolender, David L.; Kolesari, Gary L.

2008-01-01

At the Medical College of Wisconsin, a procedure was developed to allow computerized grading and grade reporting of laboratory practical examinations in the Clinical Human Anatomy course. At the start of the course, first year medical students were given four Lists of Structures. On these lists, numbered items were arranged alphabetically; the…

Running Behavioral Experiments with Human Participants: A Practical Guide (Revised Version)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-20

R. (2000). Social research methods: Qualitative and quantitative approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. This is a relatively large book. It covers...guide will be useful to anyone who is starting to run research studies, training people to run studies, or studying the experimental process. When...behavior. Running an experiment in exactly the same way regardless of who is conducting it or where (e.g., different research teams or laboratories) is

Phytoremediation of pharmaceuticals--preliminary study.

PubMed

Kotyza, Jan; Soudek, Petr; Kafka, Zdenĕk; Vanĕk, Toás

2010-03-01

Phytoremediation of selected pharmaceuticals (diclofenac, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen) using Armoracia rusticana and Linum usitatissimum cell cultures and by hydroponically cultivated Lupinus albus, Hordeum vulgaris, and Phragmites australis plants in laboratory conditions is described. During in vitro experiments, the best results for acetaminophen were achieved using Armoracia rusticana hairy root cultures, where 100% of the starting amount was removed from the media during eight days. Total removal of ibuprofen and diclofenac was achieved using a Linum usitatissimum suspension culture after one and six days, respectively. In the hydroponic arrangement, the best results were achieved for Lupinus, where acetaminophen was totally removed from media during two or four days in concentrations of 0.1 or 0.2 mM, respectively. The best effectiveness of ibuprofen removal (50% of starting amount) was found in case of Phragmites. Effectiveness of all tested plants for diclofenac removal was low. The best removal was achieved using Phragmites in the case of 0.2 mM concentration-67% of the starting amount and Hordeum for 0.1 mM starting concentration, 56%.

Restructuring of international council for standardization in haematology (ICSH) in Asia.

PubMed

Tatsumi, N; Lewis, S M

2002-08-01

Standardization and harmonization in Laboratory testing are a key issue in the midst of globalization era, because most of laboratory testing has been currently achieved with various kinds of automated systems. In the developed countries, automated systems with highly-regulated principles are commonly used in the routine laboratory. However, there are so many undeveloped and developing countries in Asia that diversity of testing levels can be observed in the area. Some laboratories use glass chamber method for blood cell counting, while other laboratory use semi-automated or fully automated analyzers for complete blood count. International standardization on Hematology is focused on the developed system but not for the developing system. Established standardized documents therefore whould not be unsuitable for Asian societies. In the context, International Council for Standardization in Hematology (ICSH) changed its rules to adjust our Asian Societies and ICSH started to restructure the body. International ICSH society is divided into 5 region sub-groups. Asian area is able to possess one new sub-society, ICSH-Asia. Its reconstruction work has been just started with Asain colleagues, and we are now extending the new societies to discuss Asian problems on the quality of hematology testing.

Efficacy of a novel topical combination of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene for treatment and control of induced infestations of brown dog ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) on dogs.

PubMed

Hunter, James S; Baggott, Derek; Everett, William R; Fourie, Josephus J; Cramer, Luiz G; Yoon, Stephen S; Collidor, Nadia; Mallouk, Yasmina; Lee, Lorne; Blair, Jeffrey; Prullage, Joseph B

2011-07-15

Four laboratory studies were conducted to demonstrate that a single topical dose of a novel spot-on combination containing fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene (CERTIFECT™, Merial Limited, GA, USA) is efficacious against the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. In each study, 6-8 male and 6-8 female purpose-bred, laboratory mongrels, terrier cross or Beagles were randomly assigned to one of two study groups (treated and untreated), based on pre-treatment parasite counts. Starting on the day before treatment, each dog was infested weekly with 50 ticks. Ticks were thumb counted at various time points after treatment and weekly infestations starting as early as 6h and continued at 12, 18 and 24h depending on the study. Ticks were removed and counted at 48 h after treatment and weekly infestations. CERTIFECT provided rapid and excellent control of pre-existing and newly acquired infestations of R. sanguineus with efficacy as high as 93% within the first 12h after a single topical treatment. Excellent control (>96%) of R. sanguineus as early as 18 h, following post treatment infestations was maintained for at least 35 days. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

LDRD 2013 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Bookless, W.

This LDRD project establishes a research program led by Jingguang Chen, who has started a new position as a Joint Appointee between BNL and Columbia University as of FY2013. Under this project, Dr. Chen will establish a new program in catalysis science at BNL and Columbia University. The LDRD program will provide initial research funding to start research at both BNL and Columbia. At BNL, Dr. Chen will initiate laboratory research, including hiring research staff, and will collaborate with the existing BNL catalysis and electrocatalysis research groups. At Columbia, a subcontract to Dr. Chen will provide startup funding for hismore » laboratory research, including initial graduate student costs. The research efforts will be linked under a common Catalysis Program in Sustainable Fuels. The overall impact of this project will be to strengthen the BNL catalysis science program through new linked research thrusts and the addition of an internationally distinguished catalysis scientist.« less

[Recent trends in the standardization of laboratory automation].

PubMed

Tao, R; Yamashita, K

2000-10-01

Laboratory automation systems have been introduced to many clinical laboratories since early 1990s. Meanwhile, it was found that the difference in the specimen tube dimensions, specimen identification formats, specimen carrier transportation equipment architecture, electromechanical interfaces between the analyzers and the automation systems was preventing the systems from being introduced to a wider extent. To standardize the different interfaces and reduce the cost necessary for the laboratory automation, NCCLS and JCCLS started establishing standards for the laboratory automation in 1996 and 1997 respectively. NCCLS has published five proposed standards which that are expected to be approved by the end of 2000.

Strengthening Mental Health Services in Head Start: A Challenge for the 1990s.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piotrkowski, Chaya S.; And Others

1994-01-01

The Head Start community has recognized that the mental health program has been a weak spot in the program's comprehensive services strategy. A brief telephone survey of 101 programs identified the services most desired and resulted in recommendations for strengthening this aspect and making the program a laboratory for innovative practices. (SLD)

Transforming Undergraduate Students into Junior Researchers: Oxidation-Reduction Sequence as a Problem-Based Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saloranta, Tiina; Lo¨nnqvist, Jan-Erik; Eklund, Patrik C.

2016-01-01

In our upper-level undergraduate laboratory course in organic chemistry we focus on a research-oriented task in a context-based and problem-based learning approach. The course starts with a preliminary training period where the students learn how to safely and independently perform synthesis and purification procedures and to operate the most…

Reengineering Electrical Engineering Undergraduate Laboratories at Escola Politecnica, University of Sao Paulo.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seabra, Antonio C.; Consonni, Denise

Brazilian engineering schools are under a strict program to reengineer their courses with the financial support of the federal agencies. At the electronic engineering department at the University of Sao Paulo, this process started by modifying the Basic Electricity and Electronic Laboratories. This paper describes the new structure of these labs…

The Babushka Concept--An Instructional Sequence to Enhance Laboratory Learning in Science Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gårdebjer, Sofie; Larsson, Anette; Adawi, Tom

2017-01-01

This paper deals with a novel method for improving the traditional "verification" laboratory in science education. Drawing on the idea of integrated instructional units, we describe an instructional sequence which we call the Babushka concept. This concept consists of three integrated instructional units: a start-up lecture, a laboratory…

From Instinct to Statute: Changes in Laboratory Safety.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jamieson, Jim

1991-01-01

The changes that have taken place in laboratory safety in the past two decades are examined. The way in which the United Kingdom's Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 is just now starting to have effect is described. The responsibility of teachers for the health and safety of their students is discussed. (KR)

KAHVE Laboratory RF circulator and transmission line project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cetinkaya, Hakan; ćaǧlar, Aslıhan; ćiçek, Cihan; Özbey, Aydın; Sunar, Ezgi; Türemen, Görkem; Yıldız, Hüseyin; Yüncü, Alperen; Özcan, Erkcan; Ünel, Gökhan; Yaman, Fatih

2018-02-01

An 800 MHz RF circulator and transmission line project has recently started at the newly commissioned Kandilli Detector, Accelerator and Instrumentation (KAHVE) Laboratory at the Boğaziçi University. The aims are to design, build and construct an RF circulator and transmission line in Turkey for high power and high frequency applications. The project consists of 8 transmission line elements: 800 MHz RF generator with 60 kW power (klystron), klystron to waveguide converter, waveguides, E and H bends, 3-port circulator and waveguide to coaxial converter to transmit RF power to a pillbox RF cavity. Design studies and details of the ongoing project will be presented.

[Standardization of operation monitoring and control of the clinical laboratory automation system].

PubMed

Tao, R

2000-10-01

Laboratory automation systems showed up in the 1980s and have been introduced to many clinical laboratories since early 1990s. Meanwhile, it was found that the difference in the specimen tube dimensions, specimen identification formats, specimen carrier transportation equipment architecture, electromechanical interfaces between the analyzers and the automation systems was preventing the systems from being introduced to a wider extent. To standardize the different interfaces and reduce the cost of laboratory automation, NCCLS and JCCLS started establishing standards for laboratory automation in 1996 and 1997 respectively. Operation monitoring and control of the laboratory automation system have been included in their activities, resulting in the publication of an NCCLS proposed standard in 1999.

[Accreditation of clinical laboratories based on ISO standards].

PubMed

Kawai, Tadashi

2004-11-01

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) have published two international standards (IS) to be used for accreditation of clinical laboratories; ISO/IEC 17025:1999 and ISO 15189:2003. Any laboratory accreditation body must satisfy the requirements stated in ISO/IEC Guide 58. In order to maintain the quality of the laboratory accreditation bodies worldwide, the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) has established the mutual recognition arrangement (MRA). In Japan, the International Accreditation Japan (IAJapan) and the Japan Accreditation Board for Conformity Assessment (JAB) are the members of the ILAC/MRA group. In 2003, the Japanese Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (JCCLS) and the JAB have established the Development Committee of Clinical Laboratory Accreditation Program (CLAP), in order to establish the CLAP, probably starting in 2005.

Foreword

Treesearch

Charles G. Terry Shaw

2010-01-01

It was in June, 1966 when I started working for the tree disease scientists at the Forestry Sciences Laboratory in Moscow, Idaho. That autumn I would start my University course in Forestry which eventually would lead to a long and rewarding career as a Forest Pathologist. But I knew none of that 44 years ago as a lowly paid summer aid hired by the Blister Rust research...

Biophotonics Master studies: teaching and training experience at University of Latvia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spigulis, Janis

2007-06-01

Two-year program for Master's studies on Biophotonics (Biomedical Optics) has been originally developed and carried out at University of Latvia since 1995. The Curriculum contains basic subjects like Fundamentals of Biomedical Optics, Medical Lightguides, Anatomy and Physiology, Lasers and Non-coherent Light Sources, Basic Physics, etc. Student laboratories, special English Terminology and Laboratory-Clinical Praxis are also involved as the training components, and Master project is the final step for the degree award. Life-long learning is supported by several E-courses and an extensive short course for medical laser users "Lasers and Bio-optics in Medicine". Recently a new inter-university European Social Fund project was started to adapt the program accordingly to the Bologna Declaration guidelines.

Validation of laboratory-scale recycling test method of paper PSA label products

Treesearch

Carl Houtman; Karen Scallon; Richard Oldack

2008-01-01

Starting with test methods and a specification developed by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Environmentally Benign Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Postage Stamp Program, a laboratory-scale test method and a specification were developed and validated for pressure-sensitive adhesive labels, By comparing results from this new test method and pilot-scale tests, which have been...

429th Brookhaven Lecture

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

Robert P. Crease

2007-10-31

Robert P. Crease, historian for Brookhaven National Laboratory and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Stony Brook University, presents "How Big Science Came to Long Island: The Birth of Brookhaven Lab," covering the founding of the Laboratory, the key figures involved in starting BNL, and the many problems that had to be overcome in creating and designing its first big machines.

40 CFR 1048.510 - What transient duty cycles apply for laboratory testing?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What transient duty cycles apply for... Procedures § 1048.510 What transient duty cycles apply for laboratory testing? (a) Starting with the 2007 model year, measure emissions by testing the engine on a dynamometer with the duty cycle described in...

Argonne Lab and U. of Chicago Form a Partnership to Develop and Market Their Scientists' Inventions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McMillen, Liz

1989-01-01

Four investors have committed $8.5 million to start companies based on discoveries made at the University of Chicago and the Argonne National Laboratory. It may be the first venture-capital fund to market products flowing from a federal laboratory. Graduate student volunteers are doing most of the development work. (MSE)

Synthesis of Two Local Anesthetics from Toluene: An Organic Multistep Synthesis in a Project-Oriented Laboratory Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demare, Patricia; Regla, Ignacio

2012-01-01

This article describes one of the projects in the advanced undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory course concerning the synthesis of two local anesthetic drugs, prilocaine and benzocaine, with a common three-step sequence starting from toluene. Students undertake, in a several-week independent project, the multistep synthesis of a…

429th Brookhaven Lecture

ScienceCinema

Robert P. Crease

2017-12-09

Robert P. Crease, historian for Brookhaven National Laboratory and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Stony Brook University, presents "How Big Science Came to Long Island: The Birth of Brookhaven Lab," covering the founding of the Laboratory, the key figures involved in starting BNL, and the many problems that had to be overcome in creating and designing its first big machines.

[Tuberculosis Laboratory Surveillance Network (TuLSA) study group. The first step for national tuberculosis laboratory surveillance: Ankara, 2011].

PubMed

Sezen, Figen; Albayrak, Nurhan; Özkara, Şeref; Karagöz, Alper; Alp, Alpaslan; Duyar Ağca, Filiz; İnan Süer, Asiye; Müderris, Tuba; Ceyhan, İsmail; Durmaz, Rıza; Ertek, Mustafa

2015-04-01

The most effective method for monitoring country-level drug resistance frequency and to implement the necessary control measures is the establishment of a laboratory-based surveillance system. The aim of this study was to summarize the follow up trend of the drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) cases, determine the load of resistance and evaluate the capacities of laboratories depending on laboratory quality assurance system for the installation work of National Tuberculosis Laboratory Surveillance Network (TuLSA) which has started in Ankara in 2011. TuLSA studies was carried out under the coordination of National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NRL) with the participation of TB laboratories and dispensaries. Specimens of TB patients, reported from health institutions, were followed in TB laboratories, and the epidemiological information was collected from the dispensaries. One isolate per patient with the drug susceptibility test (DST) results were sent to NRL from TB laboratories and in NRL the isolates were rechecked with the genotypical (MTBDRplus, Hain Lifescience, Germany) and phenotypical (MGIT 960, BD, USA) DST methods. Molecular epidemiological analysis were also performed by spoligotyping and MIRU/VNTR. Second-line DST was applied to the isolates resistant to rifampin. A total of 1276 patients were reported between January 1st to December 31th 2011, and 335 cases were defined as "pulmonary TB from Ankara province". The mean age of those patients was 43.4 ± 20 years, and 67.5% were male. Three hundred seventeen (94.6%) patients were identified as new cases. The average sample number obtained from pulmonary TB cases was 3.26 ± 2.88, and 229 (68.3%) of them was culture positive. DST was applied to all culture positive isolates; 90.4% (207/229) of cases were susceptible to the five drugs tested (ethambutol, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, rifampicin, streptomycin). Eight (3.5%) of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB), while no extensively drug-resistant strains were detected. MDR-TB is likely to occur in 63.3 times more among previously treated cases, and 73.3 times more in legal aliens. The achievement of therapy among pulmonary TB cases was 91.9%. Spoligotyping performed for 221 M.tuberculosis complex isolates, showed that all strains were clustered in nine groups. SIT 41 (105/221; 47.5%) was the most frequent spoligotype detected, and clustering rate based on MIRU-VNTR results were found as 16.3%. All of the clustered strains were sensitive while all of MDR-TB isolates showed specific MIRU-VNTR profiles. In conclusion, TuLSA studies started in Ankara in 2011 and the system is still expanding in the country. Our data obtained with TuLSA have been published as a regional surveillance data in the WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2011, and as a national surveillance data in Global Tuberculosis Report 2012.

Phototherapy and orange-tinted goggles for night-shift adaptation of police officers on patrol.

PubMed

Boivin, Diane B; Boudreau, Philippe; Tremblay, Geneviève M

2012-06-01

The aim of the present combined field and laboratory study was to assess circadian entrainment in two groups of police officers working seven consecutive 8/8.5-h night shifts as part of a rotating schedule. Eight full-time police officers on patrol (mean age ± SD: 29.8 ± 6.5 yrs) were provided an intervention consisting of intermittent exposure to wide-spectrum bright light at night, orange-tinted goggles at sunrise, and maintenance of a regular sleep/darkness episode in the day. Orange-tinted goggles have been shown to block the melatonin-suppressing effect of light significantly more than neutral gray density goggles. Nine control group police officers (mean age ± SD: 30.3 ± 4.1 yrs) working the same schedule were enrolled. Police officers were studied before, after (in the laboratory), and during (ambulatory) a series of seven consecutive nights. Urine samples were collected at wake time and bedtime throughout the week of night work and during laboratory visits (1 × /3 h) preceding and following the work week to measure urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (UaMT6s) excretion rate. Subjective alertness was assessed at the start, middle, and end of night shifts. A 10-min psychomotor vigilance task was performed at the start and end of each shift. Both laboratory visits consisted of two 8-h sleep episodes based on the prior schedule. Saliva samples were collected 2 × /h during waking episodes to assay their melatonin content. Subjective alertness (3 × /h) and performance (1 × /2 h) were assessed during wake periods in the laboratory. A mixed linear model was used to analyze the progression of UaMt6s excreted during daytime sleep episodes at home, as well as psychomotor performance and subjective alertness during night shifts. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (factors: laboratory visit and group) were used to compare peak salivary melatonin and UaMT6s excretion rate in the laboratory. In both groups of police officers, the excretion rate of UaMT6s at home was higher during daytime sleep episodes at the end compared to the start of the work week (p < .001). This rate increased significantly more in the intervention than control group (p = .032). A significant phase delay of salivary melatonin was observed in both groups at the end of study (p = .009), although no significant between-group difference was reached. Reaction speed dropped, and subjective alertness decreased throughout the night shift in both groups (p < .001). Reaction speed decreased throughout the work week in the control group (p ≤ .021), whereas no difference was observed in the intervention group. Median reaction time was increased as of the 5th and 6th nights compared to the 2nd night in controls (p ≤ .003), whereas it remained stable in the intervention group. These observations indicate better physiological adaptation in the intervention group compared to the controls.

Recommendations for the design of laboratory studies on non-target arthropods for risk assessment of genetically engineered plants

PubMed Central

Hellmich, Richard L.; Candolfi, Marco P.; Carstens, Keri; De Schrijver, Adinda; Gatehouse, Angharad M. R.; Herman, Rod A.; Huesing, Joseph E.; McLean, Morven A.; Raybould, Alan; Shelton, Anthony M.; Waggoner, Annabel

2010-01-01

This paper provides recommendations on experimental design for early-tier laboratory studies used in risk assessments to evaluate potential adverse impacts of arthropod-resistant genetically engineered (GE) plants on non-target arthropods (NTAs). While we rely heavily on the currently used proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in this discussion, the concepts apply to other arthropod-active proteins. A risk may exist if the newly acquired trait of the GE plant has adverse effects on NTAs when they are exposed to the arthropod-active protein. Typically, the risk assessment follows a tiered approach that starts with laboratory studies under worst-case exposure conditions; such studies have a high ability to detect adverse effects on non-target species. Clear guidance on how such data are produced in laboratory studies assists the product developers and risk assessors. The studies should be reproducible and test clearly defined risk hypotheses. These properties contribute to the robustness of, and confidence in, environmental risk assessments for GE plants. Data from NTA studies, collected during the analysis phase of an environmental risk assessment, are critical to the outcome of the assessment and ultimately the decision taken by regulatory authorities on the release of a GE plant. Confidence in the results of early-tier laboratory studies is a precondition for the acceptance of data across regulatory jurisdictions and should encourage agencies to share useful information and thus avoid redundant testing. PMID:20938806

Quark-Gluon Soup -- The Perfectly Liquid Phase of QCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heinz, Ulrich

2015-03-01

At temperatures above about 150 MeV and energy densities exceeding 500 MeV/fm3, quarks and gluons exist in the form of a plasma of free color charges that is about 1000 times hotter and a billion times denser than any other plasma ever created in the laboratory. This quark-gluon plasma (QGP) turns out to be strongly coupled, flowing like a liquid. About 35 years ago, the nuclear physics community started a program of relativistic heavy-ion collisions with the goal of producing and studying QGP under controlled laboratory conditions. This article recounts the story of its successful creation in collider experiments at Brookhaven National Laboratory and CERN and the subsequent discovery of its almost perfectly liquid nature, and reports on the recent quantitatively precise determination of its thermodynamic and transport properties.

Quark-gluon soup — The perfectly liquid phase of QCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heinz, Ulrich

2015-01-01

At temperatures above about 150 MeV and energy densities exceeding 500 MeV/fm3, quarks and gluons exist in the form of a plasma of free color charges that is about 1000 times hotter and a billion times denser than any other plasma ever created in the laboratory. This quark-gluon plasma (QGP) turns out to be strongly coupled, flowing like a liquid. About 35 years ago, the nuclear physics community started a program of relativistic heavy-ion collisions with the goal of producing and studying QGP under controlled laboratory conditions. This article recounts the story of its successful creation in collider experiments at Brookhaven National Laboratory and CERN and the subsequent discovery of its almost perfectly liquid nature, and reports on the recent quantitatively precise determination of its thermodynamic and transport properties.

Correlation of rates of tritium migration through porous concrete

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

Fukada, S.; Katayama, K.; Takeishi, T.

In a nuclear facility when tritium leaks from a glovebox to room accidentally, an atmosphere detritiation system (ADS) starts operating, and HTO released is recovered by ADS. ADS starts when tritium activity in air becomes higher than its controlled level. Before ADS operates, the laboratory walls are the final enclosure facing tritium and are usually made of porous concrete coated with a hydrophobic paint. In the present study, previous data on the diffusivity and adsorption coefficient of concrete and paints are reviewed. Tritium penetrates and migrates into concrete by following 3 ways. First, gaseous HT or T{sub 2} easily penetratesmore » into porous concrete. Its diffusivity is almost equal to that of H{sub 2}. When a gaseous molecule diffuses through pores with a smaller diameter than a mean free path, its migration rate is described by the Knudsen diffusion formula. The second mechanism is H{sub 2}O vapor diffusion in pores. Concrete holds a lot of structural water. Therefore, H{sub 2}O or HTO vapor can diffuse inside concrete pores along with adsorption-desorption and isotopic exchange with structural water, which is the third mechanism. Literature shows that the diffusivity of HTO through the epoxy-resin paint is determined as D(HTO)=1.0*10{sup -16} m{sup 2}/s. We have used this data to set a model and we have applied it to estimate residual tritium in laboratory walls. We have considered 2 accidental cases and a normal case: first, ADS starts operating 1 hour after 100 Ci HTO is released in the room, secondly, ADS starts 24 hours after 100 Ci HTO release and thirdly, when the walls are exposed to HTO for 10 years of normal operation. It appears that the immediate start up of ADS is indispensable for safety.« less

Disciplinary Knots and Learning Problems in Waves Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Renzone, Simone; Frati, Serena; Montalbano, Vera

An investigation on student understanding of waves is performed during an optional laboratory realized in informal extracurricular way with few, interested and talented pupils. The background and smart intuitions of students rendered the learning path very dynamic and ambitious. The activities started by investigating the basic properties of waves by means of a Shive wave machine. In order to make quantitative observed phenomena, the students used a camcorder and series of measures were obtained from the captured images. By checking the resulting data, it arose some learning difficulties especially in activities related to the laboratory. This experience was the starting point for a further analysis on disciplinary knots and learning problems in the physics of waves in order to elaborate a teaching-learning proposal on this topic.

Performance of the CareStart Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Rapid Diagnostic Test in Gressier, Haiti

PubMed Central

von Fricken, Michael E.; Weppelmann, Thomas A.; Eaton, Will T.; Masse, Roseline; Beau de Rochars, Madsen V. E.; Okech, Bernard A.

2014-01-01

Administering primaquine (PQ) to treat malaria patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can pose a serious risk of drug-induced hemolysis (DIH). New easy to use point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests are being developed as an alternative to labor-intensive spectrophotometric methods, but they require field testing before they can be used at scale. This study screened 456 participants in Gressier, Haiti using the Access Bio CareStart qualitative G6PD rapid detection test compared with the laboratory-based Trinity Biotech quantitative spectrophotometric assay. Findings suggest that the CareStart test was 90% sensitive for detecting individuals with severe deficiency and 84.8% sensitive for detecting individuals with moderate and severe deficiency compared with the Trinity Biotech assay. A high negative predictive value of 98.2% indicates excellent performance in determining those patients able to take PQ safely. The CareStart G6PD test holds much value for screening malaria patients to determine eligibility for PQ therapy. PMID:24778197

Performance of the CareStart glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) rapid diagnostic test in Gressier, Haiti.

PubMed

von Fricken, Michael E; Weppelmann, Thomas A; Eaton, Will T; Masse, Roseline; Beau de Rochars, Madsen V E; Okech, Bernard A

2014-07-01

Administering primaquine (PQ) to treat malaria patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can pose a serious risk of drug-induced hemolysis (DIH). New easy to use point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests are being developed as an alternative to labor-intensive spectrophotometric methods, but they require field testing before they can be used at scale. This study screened 456 participants in Gressier, Haiti using the Access Bio CareStart qualitative G6PD rapid detection test compared with the laboratory-based Trinity Biotech quantitative spectrophotometric assay. Findings suggest that the CareStart test was 90% sensitive for detecting individuals with severe deficiency and 84.8% sensitive for detecting individuals with moderate and severe deficiency compared with the Trinity Biotech assay. A high negative predictive value of 98.2% indicates excellent performance in determining those patients able to take PQ safely. The CareStart G6PD test holds much value for screening malaria patients to determine eligibility for PQ therapy. © The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

The Spanish external quality assessment scheme for mercury in urine.

PubMed

Quintana, M J; Mazarrasa, O

1996-01-01

In 1986 the Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo (INSHT), established the "Programa interlaboratorios de control de calidad de mercurio en orina (PICC-HgU)". The operation of this scheme is explained, criteria for evaluation of laboratory performance are defined and some results obtained are reviewed. Since the scheme started, an improvement in the overall performance of laboratories has been observed. The differences in the analytical methods used by laboratories do not seem to have a clear influence on the results.

Lean six sigma methodologies improve clinical laboratory efficiency and reduce turnaround times.

PubMed

Inal, Tamer C; Goruroglu Ozturk, Ozlem; Kibar, Filiz; Cetiner, Salih; Matyar, Selcuk; Daglioglu, Gulcin; Yaman, Akgun

2018-01-01

Organizing work flow is a major task of laboratory management. Recently, clinical laboratories have started to adopt methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma and some successful implementations have been reported. This study used Lean Six Sigma to simplify the laboratory work process and decrease the turnaround time by eliminating non-value-adding steps. The five-stage Six Sigma system known as define, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) is used to identify and solve problems. The laboratory turnaround time for individual tests, total delay time in the sample reception area, and percentage of steps involving risks of medical errors and biological hazards in the overall process are measured. The pre-analytical process in the reception area was improved by eliminating 3 h and 22.5 min of non-value-adding work. Turnaround time also improved for stat samples from 68 to 59 min after applying Lean. Steps prone to medical errors and posing potential biological hazards to receptionists were reduced from 30% to 3%. Successful implementation of Lean Six Sigma significantly improved all of the selected performance metrics. This quality-improvement methodology has the potential to significantly improve clinical laboratories. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

9 CFR 147.21 - Flock sanitation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., by private carrier, to a diagnostic laboratory for complete examination. All Salmonella cultures... effective Salmonella control program. (g) Introduction of started or mature birds should be avoided to...

Process Development in the Teaching Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klein, Leonard C.; Dana, Susanne M.

1998-06-01

Many experiences in high school and undergraduate laboratories are well-tested cookbook recipes that have already been designed to yield optimal results; the well-known synthesis of aspirin is such an example. In this project for advanced placement or second-year high school chemistry students, students mimic the process development in industrial laboratories by investigating the effect of varying conditions in the synthesis of aspirin. The class decides on criteria that should be explored (quantity of catalyst, temperature of reaction, etc.). The class is then divided into several teams with each team assigned a variable to study. Each team must submit a proposal describing how they will explore the variable before they start their study. After data on yield and purity has been gathered and evaluated, students discuss which method is most desirable, based on their agreed-upon criteria. This exercise provides an opportunity for students to review many topics from the course (rate of reaction, limiting reagents, Beer's Law) while participating in a cooperative exercise designed to imitate industrial process development.

The influence of sequence of impressions on children's anxiety and discomfort.

PubMed

Kaakko, Tarja; Horn, Michael T; Weinstein, Philip; Kaufman, Eliezer; Leggott, Penelope; Coldwell, Susan E

2003-01-01

Laboratory studies with adults and children have found lower pain reports when pain proceeds from high to low rather than from low to high. However, pediatric dentists often ease children into difficult procedures (from easiest to most difficult). This study investigated the influence of order during a clinical procedure that involved taking maxillary and mandibular alginate impressions. Subjects were 24 children aged 5 to 6 years (preoperational stage) and 24 children aged 9 to 10 years (concrete operational stage). Children were randomly assigned to either start with the mandibular (presumed to be easier) or start with the maxillary (presumed to be harder) impressions. Discomfort during the sequence of impressions was measured using the "Affective Facial Scale." A telephone interview was conducted 2 weeks later to evaluate the memory of discomfort. The results indicated that the older children who started with the mandibular (easier) impression and ended with the maxillary (more uncomfortable) impression reported significantly lower discomfort than older children who started with the maxillary impression and ended with the mandibular (Mann-Whitney U, Z = -2.08; P < .037). The same tendency was noted 2 weeks later on a telephone interview. By phone, 92% of the older children who started with the mandibular impression rated the sequence of impressions as "not at all bad," while only 58% of the older children who started with the maxillary impression rated the overall experience as "not at all bad" (chi2 = 3.56, P < .059). The younger children did not show any significant difference in their ratings of discomfort at either of the assessment periods. Consistent with clinical practice, this study observed that older children benefit from beginning an appointment with an easier procedure and working up to a more difficult one.

Composite Materials and Meta Materials for a New Approach to ITER ICRH Loads

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

Bottollier-Curtet, H.; Argouarch, A.; Vulliez, K.

Preliminary laboratory testing of ICRH antennas is a very useful step before their commissioning. Traditionally, pure water, salt water or baking soda water loads are used. These 'water' loads are convenient but strongly limited in terms of performance testing. We have started two feasibility studies for advanced ICRH loads made of ferroelectric ceramics (passive loads) and meta materials (active loads). Preliminary results are very encouraging.

Design, Fabrication and Testing of Two Different Laboratory Prototypes of CSI-based Induction Heating Units

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, M.; Sengupta, M.

2012-09-01

Induction heating is a non-contact heating process which became popular due to its energy efficiency. Current source inverter (CSI) based induction heating units are commonly used in the industry. Most of these CSIs are thyristor based, since thyristors of higher ratings are easily available. These being load commutated apparatus a start-up circuit is needed to initiate commutation. In this paper the design and fabrication of two laboratory prototypes have been presented. The first one, a SCR-based CSI fed controlled induction heating unit (IHU), has been tested with two different types of start-up procedures. Thereafter the fabrication and performance of another IGBT-based CSI is compared with the thyristor-based CSI for a 2 kW, 10 kHz application. These two types of CSIs are fully fabricated in laboratory along with the IHU. Performance analysis and simulation of two different CSIs has been done by using SequelGUI2. The triggering pulses for the inverter devices (for both CSI devices as well as auxilliary thyristor of start-up circuit) have been generated and closed-loop control has been done in FPGA platform built around an Altera make cyclone EPIC12Q240C processor which can be programmed using Quartus II software. Close agreement between simulated and experimental results highlight the accuracy of the experimental work.

We are what we do: Examining learner-generated content in the anatomy laboratory through the lens of activity theory.

PubMed

Doubleday, Alison F; Wille, Sarah J

2014-01-01

Video and photography are often used for delivering content within the anatomical sciences. However, instructors typically produce these resources to provide instructional or procedural information. Although the benefits of learner-generated content have been explored within educational research, virtually no studies have investigated the use of learner-generated video and photograph content within anatomy dissection laboratories. This study outlines an activity involving learner-generated video diaries and learner-generated photograph assignments produced during anatomy laboratory sessions. The learner-generated photographs and videos provided instructors with a means of formative assessment and allowed instructors to identify evidence of collaborative behavior in the laboratory. Student questionnaires (n = 21) and interviews (n = 5), as well as in-class observations, were conducted to examine student perspectives on the laboratory activities. The quantitative and qualitative data were examined using the framework of activity theory to identify contradictions between student expectations of, and engagement with, the activity and the actual experiences of the students. Results indicate that learner-generated photograph and video content can act as a rich source of data on student learning processes and can be used for formative assessment, for observing collaborative behavior, and as a starting point for class discussions. This study stresses the idea that technology choice for activities must align with instructional goals. This research also highlights the utility of activity theory as a framework for assessing classroom and laboratory activities, demonstrating that this approach can guide the development of laboratory activities. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.

Astronomy Applications of Adaptive Optics at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

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

Bauman, B J; Gavel, D T

2003-04-23

Astronomical applications of adaptive optics at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has a history that extends from 1984. The program started with the Lick Observatory Adaptive Optics system and has progressed through the years to lever-larger telescopes: Keck, and now the proposed CELT (California Extremely Large Telescope) 30m telescope. LLNL AO continues to be at the forefront of AO development and science.

[Osaka Medical Laboratory ISO15189 Study Group: History and Future Prospects of the Group].

PubMed

Iguchi, Ken

2016-02-01

The IS015189 "Medical laboratories: Specific requirements regarding quality and competence" is an international standard issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in February 2003. In October 2004, pilot surveys were initiated in Japan prior to accreditation surveys scheduled to be started in 2005. In September 2005, the first ever ISO15189-accredited facility was established in Japan. With the background of limited information about and few opportunities to study ISO15189 in 2004, we established the Osaka Medical Laboratory ISO15189 Study Group as a unique association that anyone interested in the ISO is able to join. Approximately 900 people have participated in group meetings, which have been held a total of 11 times. Thus, our group has played a major role in ISO development in Japan. To date, approximately 100 facilities have been ISO15189-accredited in Japan, suggesting the need to take new steps regarding its accreditation. As our group has achieved our initial objective, we are planning to work towards taking new steps, such as interaction with accredited facilities.

LDRD 2014 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Hatton, Diane

Each year, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is required to provide a program description and overview of its Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program (LDRD) to the Department of Energy (DOE) in accordance with DOE Order 413.2B dated April 19, 2006. This report provides a detailed look at the scientific and technical activities for each of the LDRD projects funded by BNL in FY 2014, as required. In FY 2014, the BNL LDRD Program funded 40 projects, 8 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $9.6M.

LDRD 2012 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Bookless, William

Each year, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is required to provide a program description and overview of its Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program (LDRD) to the Department of Energy in accordance with DOE Order 413.2B dated April 19, 2006. This report provides a detailed look at the scientific and technical activities for each of the LDRD projects funded by BNL in FY2012, as required. In FY2012, the BNL LDRD Program funded 52 projects, 14 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $10,061,292.

A numerical cloud model for the support of laboratory experimentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagen, D. E.

1979-01-01

A numerical cloud model is presented which can describe the evolution of a cloud starting from moist aerosol-laden air through the diffusional growth regime. The model is designed for the direct support of cloud chamber laboratory experimentation, i.e., experiment preparation, real-time control and data analysis. In the model the thermodynamics is uncoupled from the droplet growth processes. Analytic solutions for the cloud droplet growth equations are developed which can be applied in most laboratory situations. The model is applied to a variety of representative experiments.

LDRD 2015 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Hatton, D.

Each year, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is required to provide a program description and overview of its Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program (LDRD) to the Department of Energy (DOE) in accordance with DOE Order 413.2B dated April 19, 2006. This report provides a detailed look at the scientific and technical activities for each of the LDRD projects funded by BNL in FY 2015, as required. In FY 2015, the BNL LDRD Program funded 43 projects, 12 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $9.5M.

Laboratory automation in a functional programming language.

PubMed

Runciman, Colin; Clare, Amanda; Harkness, Rob

2014-12-01

After some years of use in academic and research settings, functional languages are starting to enter the mainstream as an alternative to more conventional programming languages. This article explores one way to use Haskell, a functional programming language, in the development of control programs for laboratory automation systems. We give code for an example system, discuss some programming concepts that we need for this example, and demonstrate how the use of functional programming allows us to express and verify properties of the resulting code. © 2014 Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening.

Methods for using clinical laboratory test results as baseline confounders in multi-site observational database studies when missing data are expected.

PubMed

Raebel, Marsha A; Shetterly, Susan; Lu, Christine Y; Flory, James; Gagne, Joshua J; Harrell, Frank E; Haynes, Kevin; Herrinton, Lisa J; Patorno, Elisabetta; Popovic, Jennifer; Selvan, Mano; Shoaibi, Azadeh; Wang, Xingmei; Roy, Jason

2016-07-01

Our purpose was to quantify missing baseline laboratory results, assess predictors of missingness, and examine performance of missing data methods. Using the Mini-Sentinel Distributed Database from three sites, we selected three exposure-outcome scenarios with laboratory results as baseline confounders. We compared hazard ratios (HRs) or risk differences (RDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from models that omitted laboratory results, included only available results (complete cases), and included results after applying missing data methods (multiple imputation [MI] regression, MI predictive mean matching [PMM] indicator). Scenario 1 considered glucose among second-generation antipsychotic users and diabetes. Across sites, glucose was available for 27.7-58.9%. Results differed between complete case and missing data models (e.g., olanzapine: HR 0.92 [CI 0.73, 1.12] vs 1.02 [0.90, 1.16]). Across-site models employing different MI approaches provided similar HR and CI; site-specific models provided differing estimates. Scenario 2 evaluated creatinine among individuals starting high versus low dose lisinopril and hyperkalemia. Creatinine availability: 44.5-79.0%. Results differed between complete case and missing data models (e.g., HR 0.84 [CI 0.77, 0.92] vs. 0.88 [0.83, 0.94]). HR and CI were identical across MI methods. Scenario 3 examined international normalized ratio (INR) among warfarin users starting interacting versus noninteracting antimicrobials and bleeding. INR availability: 20.0-92.9%. Results differed between ignoring INR versus including INR using missing data methods (e.g., RD 0.05 [CI -0.03, 0.13] vs 0.09 [0.00, 0.18]). Indicator and PMM methods gave similar estimates. Multi-site studies must consider site variability in missing data. Different missing data methods performed similarly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The response of medical virology laboratories to the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 outbreak in Paris Île-de-France region.

PubMed

Seringe, E; Agut, H

2013-10-01

The outbreak of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was a challenge for the laboratories of Paris Île-de-France region in charge of virological diagnosis. In order to evaluate the quality of their response to this challenge, a retrospective survey based on a self-administered standardized questionnaire was undertaken among the 18 hospital laboratories involved in A(H1N1)pdm09 virus detection over a period of 10 months from April 2009 to January 2010. All concerned laboratories responded to the survey. Due to imposed initial biosafety constraints and indications, virological diagnosis was performed in only two laboratories at the start of the studied period. Step by step, it was further settled in the other laboratories starting from June to November 2009. From the beginning, A(H1N1)pdm09-specific RT-PCR was considered the reference method while the use of rapid influenza detection tests remained temporary and concerned a minority of these laboratories. Among the overall 21,656 specimens received, a positive diagnosis of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was obtained in 5,390 cases (25%), the positivity range being significantly higher among women as compared to men (P<0.0001) and subjects below 45 years of age as compared to those over 65 years (P<0.0001). Two peaks in positivity frequency were observed at weeks 24 (30%, 8-12 June 2009) and 44 (50%, 26-30 October 2009) respectively, the latter one occurring 2 weeks earlier than the peak of epidemic at the national level. In contrast, a low positivity rate was detected at weeks 38-40 in relationship with other respiratory virus infections which were clinically misinterpreted as a peak of influenza epidemic. These data demonstrate the ability of medical virology laboratories of Paris Île-de-France region to provide in real time a valuable diagnosis of A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection and a relevant view of outbreak evolution, suggesting they will be a crucial component in the management of future influenza epidemics. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Liquid hydrogen turbopump rapid start program. [thermal preconditioning using coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, G. S.

1973-01-01

This program was to analyze, test, and evaluate methods of achieving rapid-start of a liquid hydrogen feed system (inlet duct and turbopump) using a minimum of thermal preconditioning time and propellant. The program was divided into four tasks. Task 1 includes analytical studies of the testing conducted in the other three tasks. Task 2 describes the results from laboratory testing of coating samples and the successful adherence of a KX-635 coating to the internal surfaces of the feed system tested in Task 4. Task 3 presents results of testing an uncoated feed system. Tank pressure was varied to determine the effect of flowrate on preconditioning. The discharge volume and the discharge pressure which initiates opening of the discharge valve were varied to determine the effect on deadhead (no through-flow) start transients. Task 4 describes results of testing a similar, internally coated feed system and illustrates the savings in preconditioning time and propellant resulting from the coatings.

Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP): Is It Value-Added for Clinical Microbiology?

PubMed Central

Miller, Melissa B.; Hindler, Janet

2015-01-01

The Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) recently published their Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP [https://www.cms.gov/regulations-and-guidance/legislation/CLIA/Individualized_Quality_Control_Plan_IQCP.html]), which will be the only option for quality control (QC) starting in January 2016 if laboratories choose not to perform Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) [U.S. Statutes at Large 81(1967):533] default QC. Laboratories will no longer be able to use “equivalent QC” (EQC) or the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards alone for quality control of their microbiology systems. The implementation of IQCP in clinical microbiology laboratories will most certainly be an added burden, the benefits of which are currently unknown. PMID:26447112

Laboratory simulations of cumulus cloud flows explain the entrainment anomaly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narasimha, Roddam; Diwan, Sourabh S.; Subrahmanyam, Duvvuri; Sreenivas, K. R.; Bhat, G. S.

2010-11-01

In the present laboratory experiments, cumulus cloud flows are simulated by starting plumes and jets subjected to off-source heat addition in amounts that are dynamically similar to latent heat release due to condensation in real clouds. The setup permits incorporation of features like atmospheric inversion layers and the active control of off-source heat addition. Herein we report, for the first time, simulation of five different cumulus cloud types (and many shapes), including three genera and three species (WMO Atlas 1987), which show striking resemblance to real clouds. It is known that the rate of entrainment in cumulus cloud flows is much less than that in classical plumes - the main reason for the failure of early entrainment models. Some of the previous studies on steady-state jets and plumes (done in a similar setup) have attributed this anomaly to the disruption of the large-scale turbulent structures upon the addition of off-source heat. We present estimates of entrainment coefficients from these measurements which show a qualitatively consistent variation with height. We propose that this explains the observed entrainment anomaly in cumulus clouds; further experiments are planned to address this question in the context of starting jets and plumes.

LPTF frequency synthesis chain: Results and improvement for the near future

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

Touahri, D.; Zondy, J.J.; Acef, O.

1994-12-31

We have measured the frequency of the He-Ne/12 laser starting from the Cs referenced CO{sub 2}/OsO{sub 4} laboratory standard. As the laser diode stabilized on the two-photon transition in Rb seems to be a suitable reference for spectroscopic studies. (H, He ... ) and a promising standard, we are modifying our chain in order to measure frequencies around 780 nm and specially the Rb one.

Evaluating painful osteopenia in the elderly

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

Norris, M.A.; De Smet, A.A.

1991-06-01

Osteopenia is a frequent finding on radiographs of elderly patients. When the exam is performed for skeletal pain, this finding may be significant. The differential diagnosis for osteopenia is extensive, but individualizing the patient work-up begins with a careful clinical history and laboratory studies. Appropriate radiographic exams can then be requested. A plain radiograph is always the starting point, followed by--as indicated--a nuclear bone scan, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Recommended approach to software development, revision 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landis, Linda; Waligora, Sharon; Mcgarry, Frank; Pajerski, Rose; Stark, Mike; Johnson, Kevin Orlin; Cover, Donna

1992-01-01

Guidelines for an organized, disciplined approach to software development that is based on studies conducted by the Software Engineering Laboratory (SEL) since 1976 are presented. It describes methods and practices for each phase of a software development life cycle that starts with requirements definition and ends with acceptance testing. For each defined life cycle phase, guidelines for the development process and its management, and for the products produced and their reviews are presented.

[Microbiology laboratory as a base of information sending].

PubMed

Komori, Toshiaki; Fujita, Naohisa; Hirose, Yuri; Kimura, Takeshi; Kyotani, Noriko; Kurahashi, Satoko; Yamada, Yukiji; Ushiyama, Masaji; Yasumoto, Towa; Yuasa, Soh-ichi

2007-10-01

The goal of our microbiology laboratory is to provide an accurate microbiological result and a useful information for every healthcare workers (HCWs). For this purpose, we were trying to do several activities, such as improving the work-flow of microbiology testings, starting 365-day-open microbiology tests, providing some training courses of microbiology and sending many useful informations about infectious diseases and infection control. Before these activities, we needed another 5 microbiology technicians beside 3 technicians and had started the program to educate them. We have successfully finished it and enabled all plans begin in April, 2005. Since then we are open for 365 days and also sending HCWs many newsletters for performing effective microbiological testings via the intra-network system and having lectures for both doctors and nurses, especially for new resident doctors at the orientation. We had also the training course for certified infection control nurses and accepted two technicians from Africa, who came to study a basic microbiology via JICA. These activities have enabled every technician not only to report and analyze microbiological test result effectively but also to improve writing and presentation skills. Through these activities all technicians have realized that accurate and rapid information from a microbiology laboratory is a key to treat patients with infectious diseases and improve their prognosis. It is suggested that skill-up of technicians lead to report an accurate result in microbiology and at the same time improve the attitude for their job.

Nature of radio feature formed by re-started jet activity in 3C 84 and its relation with γ-ray emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagai, H.; Chida, H.; Kino, M.; Orienti, M.; D'Ammando, F.; Giovannini, G.; Hiura, K.

2016-02-01

Re-started jet activity occurred in the bright nearby radio source 3C 84 in about 2005. The re-started jet is forming a prominent component (namely C3) at the tip of jet. The component has showed an increase in radio flux density for more than 7 years while the radio spectrum remains optically thin. This suggests that the component is the head of a radio lobe including a hotspot where the particle acceleration occurs. Thus, 3C 84 is a unique laboratory to study the physical properties at the very early stage of radio source evolution. Another important aspect is that high energy and very high energy γ-ray emissions are detected from this source. The quest for the site of γ-ray emission is quite important to obtain a better understanding of γ-ray emission mechanisms in radio galaxies. In this paper, we review the observational results from very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) monitoring of 3C 84 reported in series of our previous papers. We argue the nature of re-started jet/radio lobe and its relation with high-energy emission.

The War on Cancer: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Is Fighting the Good Fight.

PubMed

Mertz, Leslie

2017-01-01

Located on the north shore of Long Island in New York, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (Figure 1) started out with a marine biology emphasis at the end of the 19th century, but it soon established itself as a prominent cancer research facility. That strong emphasis on cancer work continues today as this private, not-for-profit research institution enters its 127th year (Figure 2).

Contributive research in compound semiconductor material and related devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Twist, James R.

1988-05-01

The objective of this program was to provide the Electronic Device Branch (AFWAL/AADR) with the support needed to perform state of the art electronic device research. In the process of managing and performing on the project, UES has provided a wide variety of scientific and engineering talent who worked in-house for the Avionics Laboratory. These personnel worked on many different types of research programs from gas phase microwave driven lasers, CVD and MOCVD of electronic materials to Electronic Device Technology for new devices. The fields of research included MBE and theoretical research in this novel growth technique. Much of the work was slanted towards the rapidly developing technology of GaAs and the general thrust of the research that these tasks started has remained constant. This work was started because the Avionics Laboratory saw a chance to advance the knowledge and level of the current device technology by working in the compounds semiconductor field. UES is pleased to have had the opportunity to perform on this program and is looking forward to future efforts with the Avionics Laboratory.

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

Radman, Ali M

The Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics is housed in the Wilson-Booker Science Building (WBSB) which previously consisted of six classrooms, a lecture room, three biology laboratories, one physics laboratory, one chemistry laboratory, one research laboratory, and three computer laboratories. However, due to rapid expansion in STEM majors, there was a dire need for more classroom and laboratory space to accommodate this expansion. Further, since the College started integrating research into the curriculum in 2004 in order to keep pace with the national trend in science education, it has become apparent that one small research laboratory that accommodates 10 studentsmore » will not keep pace with the growing needs of the new students interested in research. Therefore , it became imperative to add another research laboratory to augment the existing one. Thus, the new instrumentation/Research Laboratory will provide space for the new equipment and research space for an additional 8 - 10 students. In addition, the new WBSB wing also houses a Biochemisty/Molecular Biology Laboratory, an Organic Chemistry laboratory, an Animal Laboratory, a Seminar Room, two spacious classrooms, and 3 Faculty Offices. The impact of the new facility will be far-reaching.« less

The Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory geothermal program in northern Nevada

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mirk, K. F.; Wollenberg, H. A.

1974-01-01

The Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory's geothermal program began with consideration of regions where fluids in the temperature range of 150 to 230 C may be economically accessible. Three valleys, located in an area of high regional heat flow in north central Nevada, were selected for geological, geophysical, and geochemical field studies. The objective of these ongoing field activities is to select a site for a 10-MW demonstration plant. Field activities (which started in September 1973) are described. A parallel effort has been directed toward the conceptual design of a 10-MW isobutane binary plant which is planned for construction at the selected site. Design details of the plant are described. Project schedule with milestones is shown together with a cost summary of the project.

The Geometric Factor of Electrostatic Plasma Analyzers: A Case Study from the Fast Plasma Investigation for the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collinson, Glyn A.; Dorelli, John Charles; Avanov, Leon A.; Lewis, Gethyn R.; Moore, Thomas E.; Pollock, Craig; Kataria, Dhiren O.; Bedington, Robert; Arridge, Chris S.; Chornay, Dennis J.;

Crystallization of Calcium Carbonate in a Large Scale Field Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueckert, Martina; Wismeth, Carina; Baumann, Thomas

2017-04-01

The long term efficiency of geothermal facilities and aquifer thermal energy storage in the carbonaceous Malm aquifer in the Bavarian Molasse Basin is seriously affected by precipitations of carbonates. This is mainly caused by pressure and temperature changes leading to oversaturation during production. Crystallization starts with polymorphic nuclei of calcium carbonate and is often described as diffusion-reaction controlled. Here, calcite crystallization is favoured by high concentration gradients while aragonite crystallization is occurring at high reaction rates. The factors affecting the crystallization processes have been described for simplified, well controlled laboratory experiments, the knowledge about the behaviour in more complex natural systems is still limited. The crystallization process of the polymorphic forms of calcium carbonate were investigated during a heat storage test at our test site in the eastern part of the Bavarian Molasse Basin. Complementary laboratory experiments in an autoclave were run. Both, field and laboratory experiments were conducted with carbonaceous tap water. Within the laboratory experiments additionally ultra pure water was used. To avoid precipitations of the tap water, a calculated amount of {CO_2} was added prior to heating the water from 45 - 110°C (laboratory) resp. 65 - 110°C (field). A total water volume of 0.5 L (laboratory) resp. 1 L (field) was immediately sampled and filtrated through 10 - 0.1

The history of cholinesterase reactivation: hydroxylamine and pyridinium aldoximes.

PubMed

Petroianu, G A

2012-10-01

Hydroxylamine (NH2OH) the substance which will turn out to be of importance to those interested in the treatment of organophosporus cholinesterase inhibitor exposure, was synthesized by Wilhem Clemens Lossen in 1865 while working in Halle as an assistant in the laboratory of Wilhelm Heinrich Heintz. The Lossen synthesis generated hydroxylamine in aqueous solution. Anhydrous hydroxylamine was prepared almost simultaneously by Lobry de Bruyn and Crismer (1891). Using hydroxylamine as a starting point Meyer synthesized aldoximes and ketoximes (1897). Lange, a PhD student of Ladenburg, isolated 2-methyl-pyridine (alpha-picoline). Some fifty years later Wilson, working in the laboratory of Nachmansohn, demonstrated the ability of hydroxylamine to reactivate cholinesterase inhibited by organophosphates. Finally Wilson and Ginsburg using 2-methyl-pyridine as a starting point synthesized the first pyridinium aldoxime reactivator of clinical relevance, pralidoxime (1955).

Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) Program - Final Review September 12, 2012 at DHS

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

Sandstrom, Mary M.; Brown, Geoffrey W.; Warner, Kirstin F.

The Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) program conducted a final program review at the Department of Homeland Security on September 12, 2012. The review was focused on the results of the program over the complete performance period. A summary presentation delineating the accomplished tasks started the meeting, followed by technical presentations on various issues that arose during the performance period. The presentations were completed with a statistical evaluation of the testing results from all the participants in the IDCA Proficiency Test study. The meeting closed with a discussion of potential sources of funding for continuing work to resolve some ofmore » these technical issues. This effort, funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), put the issues of safe handling of these materials in perspective with standard military explosives. The study added Small-Scale Safety and Thermal (SSST) testing results for a broad suite of different HMEs to the literature, and suggested new guidelines and methods to develop safe handling practices for HMEs. Each participating testing laboratory used identical test materials and preparation methods wherever possible. Note, however, the test procedures differ among the laboratories. The results were compared among the laboratories and then compared to historical data from various sources. The testing performers involved were Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD), Sandia National Laboratories (SNL), and Air Force Research Laboratory, Tyndall AFB (AFRL/RXQL). These tests were conducted as a proficiency study in order to establish some consistency in test protocols, procedures, and experiments and to compare results when these testing variables cannot be made consistent.« less

A novel multiplex poliovirus binding inhibition assay applicable for large serosurveillance and vaccine studies, without the use of live poliovirus.

PubMed

Schepp, Rutger M; Berbers, Guy A M; Ferreira, José A; Reimerink, Johan H; van der Klis, Fiona R

2017-03-01

Large-scale serosurveillance or vaccine studies for poliovirus using the "gold standard" WHO neutralisation test (NT) are very laborious and time consuming. With the polio eradication at hand and with the removal of live attenuated Sabin strains from the oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV), starting with type 2 (as of April 2016), laboratories will need to conform to much more stringent laboratory biosafety regulations when handling live poliovirus strains. In this study, a poliovirus binding inhibition multiplex immunoassay (polio MIA) using inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV-Salk) was developed for simultaneous quantification of serum antibodies directed to all three poliovirus types. Our assay shows a good correlation with the NT and an excellent correlation with the ELISA-based binding inhibition assay (POBI). The assay is highly type-specific and reproducible. Additionally, serum sample throughput increases about fivefold relative to NT and POBI and the amount of serum needed is reduced by more than 90%. In conclusion, the polio MIA can be used as a safe and high throughput application, especially for large-scale surveillance and vaccine studies, reducing laboratory time and serum amounts needed. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dispensability of Annual Laboratory Follow-Up After More than 2 Years of Valproic Acid Use: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Meijboom, Rosanne W; Grootens, Koen P

2017-11-01

The necessity of annual laboratory follow-up in patients treated with valproic acid (VPA) is controversial. We investigated the need for annual laboratory follow-up of liver enzymes, electrolytes, and full blood count (FBC) in patients treated with VPA. A systematic search in Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews (EBMR), MEDLINE, and EMBASE was undertaken in December 2016 to identify all published articles investigating or citing valproic acid, liver function disorders, electrolyte disorders, and FBC deviations. This review included 108 articles. As the number of participants and duration of the study was not adequate in most studies to detect rare adverse events, studies did not demonstrate a clear prevalence of hepatotoxicity. While a transient increase of transaminases is common and seldom harmful, severe hepatotoxicity is a rare phenomenon and is not prevented by routine laboratory monitoring. VPA had no relevant effect on serum calcium, sodium, potassium, and albumin. The prevalence of FBC varied from 0.6 to 27.8%, occurred mostly in the first 2 years of therapy, and was usually asymptomatic. Long-term monitoring in VPA treatment is only necessary when there have been dose adjustments, co-medication switches, or co-morbidity. In uncomplicated cases, annual laboratory follow-up may be discontinued after 2 years of VPA treatment. Encouraging patients to be vigilant is more effective in the detection of hepatotoxicity than laboratory testing. Follow-up of FBC at 3-6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after start or after a dose increase of VPA or interacting medication is sufficient.

An examination of speech reception thresholds measured in a simulated reverberant cafeteria environment

PubMed Central

Best, Virginia; Keidser, Gitte; Buchholz, J(x004E7)rg M.; Freeston, Katrina

2016-01-01

Objective There is increasing demand in the hearing research community for the creation of laboratory environments that better simulate challenging real-world listening environments. The hope is that the use of such environments for testing will lead to more meaningful assessments of listening ability, and better predictions about the performance of hearing devices. Here we present one approach for simulating a complex acoustic environment in the laboratory, and investigate the effect of transplanting a speech test into such an environment. Design Speech reception thresholds were measured in a simulated reverberant cafeteria, and in a more typical anechoic laboratory environment containing background speech babble. Study Sample The participants were 46 listeners varying in age and hearing levels, including 25 hearing-aid wearers who were tested with and without their hearing aids. Results Reliable SRTs were obtained in the complex environment, but led to different estimates of performance and hearing aid benefit from those measured in the standard environment. Conclusions The findings provide a starting point for future efforts to increase the real-world relevance of laboratory-based speech tests. PMID:25853616

Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP): Is It Value-Added for Clinical Microbiology?

PubMed

Sharp, Susan E; Miller, Melissa B; Hindler, Janet

2015-12-01

The Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) recently published their Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP [https://www.cms.gov/regulations-and-guidance/legislation/CLIA/Individualized_Quality_Control_Plan_IQCP.html]), which will be the only option for quality control (QC) starting in January 2016 if laboratories choose not to perform Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) [U.S. Statutes at Large 81(1967):533] default QC. Laboratories will no longer be able to use "equivalent QC" (EQC) or the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards alone for quality control of their microbiology systems. The implementation of IQCP in clinical microbiology laboratories will most certainly be an added burden, the benefits of which are currently unknown. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Fahr's Syndrome and Secondary Hypoparathyroidism.

PubMed

Dos Santos, Vitorino Modesta; Da Mata, Ana Medeiros De Farias; Ribeiro, Kelle Regina Alves; Calvo, Isadora Cartaxo De Sousa

2016-01-01

A typical case of Fahr's syndrome is described in a 76-year-old Brazilian female who underwent a total thyroidectomy three decades ago. Six years before the current admission, she started with generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Associated disorders involved extra-pyramidal, cognitive, nocturnal terror and mood changes. With suspicion of hypocalcemia due to secondary hypoparathyroidism, laboratory determinations confirmed the diagnoses. Furthermore, imaging studies of the central nervous system detected multiple calcifications, with characteristic distribution of Fahr's syndrome. Clinical management was successful.

SAMICS support study. Volume 1: Cost account catalog

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is examining the feasibility of a new industry to produce photovoltaic solar energy collectors similar to those used on spacecraft. To do this, a standardized costing procedure was developed. The Solar Array Manufacturing Industry Costing Standards (SAMICS) support study supplies the following information: (1) SAMICS critique; (2) Standard data base--cost account structure, expense item costs, inflation rates, indirect requirements relationships, and standard financial parameter values; (3) Facilities capital cost estimating relationships; (4) Conceptual plant designs; (5) Construction lead times; (6) Production start-up times; (7) Manufacturing price estimates.

Start-up and operation strategies on the liquefied food waste anaerobic digestion and a full-scale case application.

PubMed

Meng, Ying; Shen, Fei; Yuan, Hairong; Zou, Dexun; Liu, Yanping; Zhu, Baoning; Chufo, Akiber; Jaffar, Muhammad; Li, Xiujin

2014-11-01

Batch anaerobic digestion was employed to investigate the efficient start-up strategies for the liquefied food waste, and sequencing batch digestion was also performed to determine maximum influent organic loading rate (OLR) for efficient and stable operation. The results indicated that the start-up could be well improved using appropriate wastewater organic load and food-to-microorganism ratios (F/M). When digestion was initialized at low chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration of 20.0 gCOD L(-1), the start-up would go well using lower F/M ratio of 0.5-0.7. The OLR 7.0 gCOD L(-1) day(-1) was recommended for operating the ASBR digestion, in which the COD conversion of 96.7 ± 0.53% and biomethane yield of 3.5 ± 0.2 L gCOD(-1) were achieved, respectively. The instability would occur when OLR was higher than 7.0 gCOD L(-1) day(-1), and this instability was not recoverable. Lipid was suggested to be removed before anaerobic digestion. The anaerobic digestion process in engineering project ran well, and good performance was achieved when the start-up and operational strategies from laboratory study were applied. For case application, stable digestion performance was achieved in a digester (850 m(3) volume) with biogas production of 1.0-3.8 m(3) m(-3) day(-1).

Diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in the Emilia Romagna region: a prospective population-based study.

PubMed

Addimanda, Olga; Marino, Massimiliano; Farina, Ilaria; Trevisani, Marica; Arrigoni, Eugenio; Lumetti, Federica; Crescentini, Filippo; Sambo, Paola; Bezzi, Alessandra; Bruschi, Marco; Santilli, Daniele; Reta, Massimo; Bosi, Simona; Delsante, Giovanni; Girelli, Francesco; Montaguti, Luca; Meliconi, Riccardo; Sebastiani, Marco; Ferri, Clodoveo; Malavolta, Nazzarena; Govoni, Marcello; Trombetti, Susanna; De Palma, Rossana; Salvarani, Carlo

2017-01-01

To perform a population-based study in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, in order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmacologic treatments. 1087 patients with RA were enrolled; inclusion criteria were: newly diagnosed RA, already diagnosed RA with high disease activity (HDA) (DAS28≥4.2) starting biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs), already diagnosed RA with HDA continuing with conventional DMARDs (cDMARDs). The following data were collected: demographics, clinical and laboratory features, imaging and prescribed drugs. All parameters except immunology and imaging (performed yearly) were repeated at each follow-up evaluations (after 3, 6 and 12 months, and thereafter every 12 months). In order to evaluate clinical response, the EULAR response criteria were used as the gold standard. 414 (38.1%) newly diagnosed patients with RA, 477 (43.9%) RA patients who started bDMARDs and 196 (18.0%) RA patients who continued with cDMARDs were enrolled from April 2012 to March 2015 at 12 Rheumatology Centres in the Emilia Romagna Region. Statistical analyses showed a relative risk ratio (RRR) for moderate response of 1.65 in RA patients who started bDMARDs (p=0.16) and 2.49 for newly diagnosed RA (p=0.01). Sex, age and Health Assessment Questionnaire were not statistically significant. A RRR of 2.00 has been confirmed for RA patients who started bDMARDs (p<0.0005) for a good response as well as 2.20 for newly diagnosed RA (p<0.0005). An increase in adverse events among bDMARDs was found, but when looking at infections or neoplasia, no differences were highlighted between RA which started bDMARDs and RA who continued with cDMARDs. Our results are in line with already published papers from British and Swedish Registries: a greater likelihood to have a good response is demonstrated for not longstanding RA starting cDMARDs or RA with HDA when a bDMARD is started. Also a good safety profile is demonstrated.

Laboratory testing of GNB switch 12 volt SLI (starting, lighting and ignition) battery

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

Hardin, J.E.

1990-03-01

The purpose of this report is to describe the testing performed on the GNB Switch flooded lead SLI battery in the INEL Electric Vehicle Battery Laboratory, to present the results and conclusions of this testing, and to make appropriate recommendations. GNB Inc. is a Pacific Dunlop Company. The term SWITCH'' comes from the fact that this product consists of two batteries in one package which can be connected in parallel by a switch for higher cranking energy or reserve capacity. The smaller second battery is float charged through a diode. GNB advertising describes the SWITCH'' as The Battery With Amore » Spare''. The Switch, a BCI Group 24 SLI (Starting, Lighting and Ignition) battery, is manufactured in Georgia for sale throughout the US. The initial design work on the Switch was done in Australia under the Pulsar name by Dunlop. 11 figs., 3 tabs.« less

Tips for starting your own nurse practitioner practice.

PubMed

Calmelat, A

1993-04-01

The decision to open a nurse practitioner practice is often difficult to make. Success depends on the possession of specific resources, such as adequate skills, finances, emotional support and the desire to be one's own boss. These skills will be critical as the NP develops a business plan and a budget, and makes important decisions, such as the form the business will take: sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation. Using external resources such as attorneys and accountants is also useful, especially when tackling issues of licenses, taxes and insurance. Start-up costs can be kept to a minimum with creativity and used equipment. In-house laboratories and reference laboratories must conform to strict regulations. A practice without established patients will need to market services aggressively through a successful mix of product, price, place and promotion. Patients' acceptance of the NP office will be enhanced by smooth patient flow, adequate space and cleanliness.

Final report on the EURAMET.M.FF-K4.2.2014 volume comparison at 100 μL—calibration of micropipettes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Batista, Elsa; Matus, Michael; Metaxiotou, Zoe; Tudor, Maria; Lenard, Elzbieta; Buker, Oliver; Wennergren, Per; Piluri, Erinda; Miteva, Mariana; Vicarova, Martina; Vospĕlová, Alena; Turnsek, Urska; Micic, Ljiljana; Grue, Lise-Lote; Mihailovic, Mirjana; Sarevska, Anastazija

2017-01-01

During the EURAMET TC-F meeting of 2014 and following the finalization of CCM.FF-K4.2.2011 comparison, it was agreed to start a Regional Key Comparison (KC) on volume measurements using two 100 μL micropipettes (piston pipettes) allowing the participating laboratories to assess the agreement of their results and uncertainties. Two 100 μL micropipettes were tested by 15 participants. One participant was not a member or associate member of the BIPM and was be removed from this report. The comparison started in July 2015 and ended in March 2016. The Volume and Flow Laboratory of the Portuguese Institute for Quality (IPQ) was the pilot laboratory and performed the initial and final measurements of the micropipettes. The micropipettes showed a stable volume during the whole comparison, which was confirmed by the results from the pilot laboratory. The original results of all participant NMIs were corrected to the standard atmospheric pressure in order to compare results under the same calibration conditions, and the contribution of the 'process-related handling contribution' was added to the uncertainty budget of each participant. In general the declared CMCs are in accordance with the KCDB. For the micropipette 354828Z, two laboratories had inconsistent results. For micropipette 354853Z, three laboratories had inconsistent results. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Buckling of Aluminium Sheet Components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hegadekatte, Vishwanath; Shi, Yihai; Nardini, Dubravko

Wrinkling is one of the major defects in sheet metal forming processes. It may become a serious obstacle to implementing the forming process and assembling the parts, and may also play a significant role in the wear of the tool. Wrinkling is essentially a local buckling phenomenon that results from compressive stresses (compressive instability) e.g., in the hoop direction for axi-symmetric systems such as beverage cans. Modern beverage can is a highly engineered product with a complex geometry. Therefore in order to understand wrinkling in such a complex system, we have started by studying wrinkling with the Yoshida buckling test. Further, we have studied the buckling of ideal and dented beverage cans under axial loading by laboratory testing. We have modelled the laboratory tests and also the imperfection sensitivity of the two systems using finite element method and the predictions are in qualitative agreement with experimental data.

Bioreactor Scalability: Laboratory-Scale Bioreactor Design Influences Performance, Ecology, and Community Physiology in Expanded Granular Sludge Bed Bioreactors

PubMed Central

Connelly, Stephanie; Shin, Seung G.; Dillon, Robert J.; Ijaz, Umer Z.; Quince, Christopher; Sloan, William T.; Collins, Gavin

2017-01-01

Studies investigating the feasibility of new, or improved, biotechnologies, such as wastewater treatment digesters, inevitably start with laboratory-scale trials. However, it is rarely determined whether laboratory-scale results reflect full-scale performance or microbial ecology. The Expanded Granular Sludge Bed (EGSB) bioreactor, which is a high-rate anaerobic digester configuration, was used as a model to address that knowledge gap in this study. Two laboratory-scale idealizations of the EGSB—a one-dimensional and a three- dimensional scale-down of a full-scale design—were built and operated in triplicate under near-identical conditions to a full-scale EGSB. The laboratory-scale bioreactors were seeded using biomass obtained from the full-scale bioreactor, and, spent water from the distillation of whisky from maize was applied as substrate at both scales. Over 70 days, bioreactor performance, microbial ecology, and microbial community physiology were monitored at various depths in the sludge-beds using 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V4 region), specific methanogenic activity (SMA) assays, and a range of physical and chemical monitoring methods. SMA assays indicated dominance of the hydrogenotrophic pathway at full-scale whilst a more balanced activity profile developed during the laboratory-scale trials. At each scale, Methanobacterium was the dominant methanogenic genus present. Bioreactor performance overall was better at laboratory-scale than full-scale. We observed that bioreactor design at laboratory-scale significantly influenced spatial distribution of microbial community physiology and taxonomy in the bioreactor sludge-bed, with 1-D bioreactor types promoting stratification of each. In the 1-D laboratory bioreactors, increased abundance of Firmicutes was associated with both granule position in the sludge bed and increased activity against acetate and ethanol as substrates. We further observed that stratification in the sludge-bed in 1-D laboratory-scale bioreactors was associated with increased richness in the underlying microbial community at species (OTU) level and improved overall performance. PMID:28507535

Reducing the number of laboratory animals used in tissue engineering research by restricting the variety of animal models. Articular cartilage tissue engineering as a case study.

PubMed

de Vries, Rob B M; Buma, Pieter; Leenaars, Marlies; Ritskes-Hoitinga, Merel; Gordijn, Bert

2012-12-01

The use of laboratory animals in tissue engineering research is an important underexposed ethical issue. Several ethical questions may be raised about this use of animals. This article focuses on the possibilities of reducing the number of animals used. Given that there is considerable debate about the adequacy of the current animal models in tissue engineering research, we investigate whether it is possible to reduce the number of laboratory animals by selecting and using only those models that have greatest predictive value for future clinical application of the tissue engineered product. The field of articular cartilage tissue engineering is used as a case study. Based on a study of the scientific literature and interviews with leading experts in the field, an overview is provided of the animal models used and the advantages and disadvantages of each model, particularly in terms of extrapolation to the human situation. Starting from this overview, it is shown that, by skipping the small models and using only one large preclinical model, it is indeed possible to restrict the number of animal models, thereby reducing the number of laboratory animals used. Moreover, it is argued that the selection of animal models should become more evidence based and that researchers should seize more opportunities to choose or create characteristics in the animal models that increase their predictive value.

X-Ray Spectroscopic Laboratory Experiments In Support of the NASA X-Ray Astronomy Flight Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kahn, Steven M.; Savin, D. W.; Gu, M. F.; Beiersdorfer, P.; Liedahl, D. A.; Brown, G.; Utter, S.

1998-01-01

During the 1997 performance period, our work focused on the L-shell X-ray emission from highly charged iron ions in the 10-18 A region. Details of our accomplishments in 1997 are presented in the following. We start by describing the laboratory measurements made and their impact on the X-ray flight program and conclude by an overview of new instrumental capabilities developed for uses in the coming year.

Ferromagnetic movements of middle ear implants and stapes prostheses in a 3-T magnetic resonance field.

PubMed

Fritsch, Michael H; Gutt, Jason J

2005-03-01

A 3-T magnetic resonance field may cause motion or displacement of middle ear implants not seen in studies with 1.5-T magnets. Previous publications have described the safety limitations of some otologic implants in 1.5-T magnetic resonance fields. Several company-wide recalls of implants were issued. No studies to date have been reported for otologic implants within a 3-T magnetic resonance field, nor have there been comparisons with a 1.5-T field strength. Eighteen commonly used middle ear implants and prostheses were selected. In Part 1, the prostheses were placed in Petri dishes and exposed to a 3-T magnetic resonance field. In Part 2, the particular prostheses that showed movement in Part 1 were placed into their intended use positions within temporal bone laboratory specimens and exposed to a 3-T field. Both parts were repeated in a 1.5-T field. In Part 1, three prostheses moved dramatically from their start positions when exposed to the 3-T magnetic resonance field. In Part 2, the three particular prostheses that showed movement in Part 1 showed no gross displacement or movement from their start positions within the temporal bone laboratory specimens. No implants moved in the 1.5-T field in either Part 1 or Part 2. Certain stapes prostheses move dramatically in Petri dishes in 3-T fields. When placed into temporal bone laboratory specimens, the same prostheses show no signs of movement from the surgical site in a 3-T field, and it appears that the surgical position holds the implants firmly in place. Results of published 1.5-T field studies should not be used directly for safety recommendations in a 3-T magnetic resonance. Heat, voltage induction, and vibration during exposure to the magnetic resonance fields should be considered as additional possible safety issues. Preference should be given to platinum and titanium implants in manufacturing processes and surgical selection.

Poster 4: Investigating the first steps of hydrocarbon condensation in the laboratory and in Titan's atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biennier, Ludovic; Bourgalais, Jeremy; Benidar, Abdessamad; Le Picard, Sebastien

2016-06-01

Hydrocarbons formed in Titan's cold atmosphere, starting with ethane C2H6, ethylene C2H4, acetylene C2H2, propane C3H8,... up to benzene C6H6, play some role in aerosol production, cloud processes, rain generation and Titan's lakes formation. We have started to study in the laboratory the kinetics of the first steps of condensation of these hydrocarbons. Rate coefficients are very sensitive to the description of the potential interaction surfaces of the molecules involved. Combined theoretical and experimental studies at the molecular level of the homogenous nucleation of various small molecules should improve greatly our fundamental understanding. This knowledge will serve as a model for studying more complex nucleation processes actually taking places in planetary atmospheres. Here we present the first experimental kinetic study of the dimerization of two small hydrocarbons: ethane C2H6 and propane C3H8. We have performed experiments to identify the temperature and partial densities ranges over which small hydrocarbon clusters form in saturated uniform supersonic flows. Using our unique reactor based on a Laval nozzle expansions, the kinetics of the formation has also been investigated down to 23 K. The chemical species present in the reactor are probed by a time of flight mass spectrometer equipped with an electron gun for soft ionization of the neutral reagents and products. This work aims at putting some constraints on the role of small hydrocarbon condensation in the formation of haze particles in the dense atmosphere of Titan.

Effect of soil disturbance on recharging fluxes: Case study on the Snake River Plain, Idaho National Laboratory, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nimmo, J.R.; Perkins, K.S.

2008-01-01

Soil structural disturbance influences the downward flow of water that percolates deep enough to become aquifer recharge. Data from identical experiments in an undisturbed silt-loam soil and in an adjacent simulated waste trench composed of the same soil material, but disturbed, included (1) laboratory- and field-measured unsaturated hydraulic properties and (2) field-measured transient water content profiles through 24 h of ponded infiltration and 75 d of redistribution. In undisturbed soil, wetting fronts were highly diffuse above 2 m depth, and did not go much deeper than 2 m. Darcian analysis suggests an average recharge rate less than 2 mm/year. In disturbed soil, wetting fronts were sharp and initial infiltration slower; water moved slowly below 2 m without obvious impediment. Richards' equation simulations with realistic conditions predicted sharp wetting fronts, as observed for disturbed soil. Such simulations were adequate for undisturbed soil only if started from a post-initial moisture distribution that included about 3 h of infiltration. These late-started simulations remained good, however, through the 76 d of data. Overall results suggest the net effect of soil disturbance, although it reduces preferential flow, may be to increase recharge by disrupting layer contrasts. ?? Springer-Verlag 2007.

Evaluation of NOx emissions of a retrofitted Euro 5 passenger car for the Horizon prize "Engine retrofit".

PubMed

Giechaskiel, Barouch; Suarez-Bertoa, Ricardo; Lähde, Tero; Clairotte, Michael; Carriero, Massimo; Bonnel, Pierre; Maggiore, Maurizio

2018-06-13

The Horizon 2020 prize for the "Engine Retrofit for Clean Air" aims at reducing the pollution in cities by spurring the development of retrofit technology for diesel engines. A Euro 5 passenger car was retrofitted with an under-floor SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for NO x catalyst in combination with a solid ammonia based dosing system as the NO x reductant. The vehicle was tested both on the road and on the chassis dynamometer under various test cycles and ambient temperatures. The NO x emissions were reduced by 350-1100 mg/km (60-85%) in the laboratory depending on the test cycle and engine conditions (cold or hot start), except at type approval conditions. The reduction for cold start urban cycles was < 75 mg/km (< 15%). The on road and laboratory tests were inline. In some high speed conditions significant increase of ammonia (NH 3 ) and nitrous oxide (N 2 O) were measured. No effect was seen on other pollutants (hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particles). The results of the present study show that retrofitting high emitting vehicles can significantly reduce vehicle NO x emissions and ultimately pollution in cities. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Errors in laboratory daily practice].

PubMed

Larrose, C; Le Carrer, D

2007-01-01

Legislation set by GBEA (Guide de bonne exécution des analyses) requires that, before performing analysis, the laboratory directors have to check both the nature of the samples and the patients identity. The data processing of requisition forms, which identifies key errors, was established in 2000 and in 2002 by the specialized biochemistry laboratory, also with the contribution of the reception centre for biological samples. The laboratories follow a strict criteria of defining acceptability as a starting point for the reception to then check requisition forms and biological samples. All errors are logged into the laboratory database and analysis report are sent to the care unit specifying the problems and the consequences they have on the analysis. The data is then assessed by the laboratory directors to produce monthly or annual statistical reports. This indicates the number of errors, which are then indexed to patient files to reveal the specific problem areas, therefore allowing the laboratory directors to teach the nurses and enable corrective action.

Eleven Tribes Jump START Clean Energy Projects, Summer 2012 (Newsletter)

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

Not Available

This newsletter describes key activities of the DOE Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs for Summer 2012. The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs (DOE-IE) has selected 11 Tribes - five in Alaska and six in the contiguous United States - to receive on-the-ground technical support for community-based energy efficiency and renewable energy projects as part of DOE-IE's Strategic Technical Assistance Response Team (START) Program. START finalists were selected based on the clarity of their requests for technical assistance and the ability of START to successfully work with their projects or community. Technical expertsmore » from DOE and its National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will work directly with community-based project teams to analyze local energy issues and assist the Tribes in moving their projects forward. In Alaska, the effort will be bolstered by DOE-IE's partnership with the Denali Commission, which will provide additional assistance and expertise, as well as funding to fuel the Alaska START initiative.« less

Laboratory estimation of net trophic transfer efficiencies of PCB congeners to lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) from its prey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Madenjian, Charles P.; Rediske, Richard R.; O'Keefe, James P.; David, Solomon R.

2014-01-01

A technique for laboratory estimation of net trophic transfer efficiency (γ) of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners to piscivorous fish from their prey is described herein. During a 135-day laboratory experiment, we fed bloater (Coregonus hoyi) that had been caught in Lake Michigan to lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) kept in eight laboratory tanks. Bloater is a natural prey for lake trout. In four of the tanks, a relatively high flow rate was used to ensure relatively high activity by the lake trout, whereas a low flow rate was used in the other four tanks, allowing for low lake trout activity. On a tank-by-tank basis, the amount of food eaten by the lake trout on each day of the experiment was recorded. Each lake trout was weighed at the start and end of the experiment. Four to nine lake trout from each of the eight tanks were sacrificed at the start of the experiment, and all 10 lake trout remaining in each of the tanks were euthanized at the end of the experiment. We determined concentrations of 75 PCB congeners in the lake trout at the start of the experiment, in the lake trout at the end of the experiment, and in bloaters fed to the lake trout during the experiment. Based on these measurements, γ was calculated for each of 75 PCB congeners in each of the eight tanks. Mean γ was calculated for each of the 75 PCB congeners for both active and inactive lake trout. Because the experiment was replicated in eight tanks, the standard error about mean γ could be estimated. Results from this type of experiment are useful in risk assessment models to predict future risk to humans and wildlife eating contaminated fish under various scenarios of environmental contamination.

Globus Quick Start Guide. Globus Software Version 1.1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The Globus Project is a community effort, led by Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Southern California's Information Sciences Institute. Globus is developing the basic software infrastructure for computations that integrate geographically distributed computational and information resources.

Visiting Scholars Program Selection | Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

The Expression of Interest will provide us with the applicant’s: Personal and professional information Targeted start and end dates Purpose of the visit in the context of his/her overall research activities Research approach to ad

49 CFR 40.365 - What is the Department's policy concerning starting a PIE proceeding?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... PROCEDURES FOR TRANSPORTATION WORKPLACE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAMS Public Interest Exclusions § 40.365... constitutes a conflict of interest under this part (e.g., a laboratory that derives a financial benefit from...

Friedel-Crafts Acylation: An Experiment Incorporating Spectroscopic Structure Determination.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schatz, Paul F.

1979-01-01

Describes a laboratory experiment which demonstrates manipulation of highly reactive chemicals, use of a gas trap, and simple and reduced pressure distillation. Student must characterize starting material and product with nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy. (Author/SA)

Interview with Richard Oelman

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kibble, conducted by Bob

1995-09-01

Richard Oelman is the Senior Laboratory technician at Coulsdon College. Richard started work at Fullers Earth in Redhill and has been a technician in a number of schools. He has trained as a teacher, and joined the staff at Coulsdon College in 1991.

Reducing Communication Delays and Improving Quality of Care with a Tuberculosis Laboratory Information System in Resource Poor Environments: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Blaya, Joaquín A.; Shin, Sonya S.; Yagui, Martin; Contreras, Carmen; Cegielski, Peter; Yale, Gloria; Suarez, Carmen; Asencios, Luis; Bayona, Jaime; Kim, Jihoon; Fraser, Hamish S. F.

2014-01-01

Background Lost, delayed or incorrect laboratory results are associated with delays in initiating treatment. Delays in treatment for Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) can worsen patient outcomes and increase transmission. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a laboratory information system in reducing delays and the time for MDR-TB patients to culture convert (stop transmitting). Methods Setting: 78 primary Health Centers (HCs) in Lima, Peru. Participants lived within the catchment area of participating HCs and had at least one MDR-TB risk factor. The study design was a cluster randomized controlled trial with baseline data. The intervention was the e-Chasqui web-based laboratory information system. Main outcome measures were: times to communicate a result; to start or change a patient's treatment; and for that patient to culture convert. Results 1671 patients were enrolled. Intervention HCs took significantly less time to receive drug susceptibility test (DST) (median 11 vs. 17 days, Hazard Ratio 0.67 [0.62–0.72]) and culture (5 vs. 8 days, 0.68 [0.65–0.72]) results. The time to treatment was not significantly different, but patients in intervention HCs took 16 days (20%) less time to culture convert (p = 0.047). Conclusions The eChasqui system reduced the time to communicate results between laboratories and HCs and time to culture conversion. It is now used in over 259 HCs covering 4.1 million people. This is the first randomized controlled trial of a laboratory information system in a developing country for any disease and the only study worldwide to show clinical impact of such a system. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01201941 PMID:24721980

Reducing communication delays and improving quality of care with a tuberculosis laboratory information system in resource poor environments: a cluster randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Blaya, Joaquín A; Shin, Sonya S; Yagui, Martin; Contreras, Carmen; Cegielski, Peter; Yale, Gloria; Suarez, Carmen; Asencios, Luis; Bayona, Jaime; Kim, Jihoon; Fraser, Hamish S F

2014-01-01

Lost, delayed or incorrect laboratory results are associated with delays in initiating treatment. Delays in treatment for Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) can worsen patient outcomes and increase transmission. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a laboratory information system in reducing delays and the time for MDR-TB patients to culture convert (stop transmitting). 78 primary Health Centers (HCs) in Lima, Peru. Participants lived within the catchment area of participating HCs and had at least one MDR-TB risk factor. The study design was a cluster randomized controlled trial with baseline data. The intervention was the e-Chasqui web-based laboratory information system. Main outcome measures were: times to communicate a result; to start or change a patient's treatment; and for that patient to culture convert. 1671 patients were enrolled. Intervention HCs took significantly less time to receive drug susceptibility test (DST) (median 11 vs. 17 days, Hazard Ratio 0.67 [0.62-0.72]) and culture (5 vs. 8 days, 0.68 [0.65-0.72]) results. The time to treatment was not significantly different, but patients in intervention HCs took 16 days (20%) less time to culture convert (p = 0.047). The eChasqui system reduced the time to communicate results between laboratories and HCs and time to culture conversion. It is now used in over 259 HCs covering 4.1 million people. This is the first randomized controlled trial of a laboratory information system in a developing country for any disease and the only study worldwide to show clinical impact of such a system. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01201941.

Safety management and risk assessment in chemical laboratories.

PubMed

Marendaz, Jean-Luc; Friedrich, Kirstin; Meyer, Thierry

2011-01-01

The present paper highlights a new safety management program, MICE (Management, Information, Control and Emergency), which has been specifically adapted for the academic environment. The process starts with an exhaustive hazard inventory supported by a platform assembling specific hazards encountered in laboratories and their subsequent classification. A proof of concept is given by a series of implementations in the domain of chemistry targeting workplace health protection. The methodology is expressed through three examples to illustrate how the MICE program can be used to address safety concerns regarding chemicals, strong magnetic fields and nanoparticles in research laboratories. A comprehensive chemical management program is also depicted.

Daily Laboratory Monitoring is of Poor Health Care Value in Adolescents Acutely Hospitalized for Eating Disorders.

PubMed

Ridout, Kathryn K; Kole, Jonathan; Fitzgerald, Kelly L; Ridout, Samuel J; Donaldson, Abigail A; Alverson, Brian

2016-07-01

This study investigates how the clinical practice guideline-recommended laboratory monitoring for refeeding syndrome impacts management and outcomes of adolescents with eating disorders hospitalized for acute medical stabilization and examines the value of laboratory monitoring (defined as the patient health outcomes achieved per dollar spent). A retrospective chart review of medical admissions in a children's hospital between October 2010 and February 2014 was performed. Encounters were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes of eating disorders as primary or secondary diagnoses. Exclusion criteria included systemic diseases associated with significant electrolyte abnormalities. Chart abstraction was performed using a predetermined form. Costs were estimated by converting hospital-fixed Medicaid charges using a statewide cost-to-charge ratio. Of the 196 patient encounters, there were no cases of refeeding syndrome. A total of 3,960 key recommended laboratories were obtained; 1.9% were below normal range and .05% were critical values. Of these, .28% resulted in supplementation; none were associated with a change in inpatient management. Total laboratory costs were $269,250.85; the calculated health care value of this monitoring is 1.04 × 10(-8) differential outcomes per dollar spent. This study provides evidence to suggest that daily laboratory monitoring for refeeding syndrome is a poor health care value in the management of adolescents hospitalized for acute medical stabilization with eating disorders. This initial analysis suggests that starting at a relatively low caloric level and advancing nutrition slowly may negate the need for daily laboratory assessment, which may have important implications for current guidelines. Copyright © 2016 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A comparison of refuse attenuation in laboratory and field scale lysimeters.

PubMed

Youcai, Zhao; Luochun, Wang; Renhua, Hua; Dimin, Xu; Guowei, Gu

2002-01-01

For this study, small and middle scale laboratory lysimeters, and a large scale field lysimeter in situ in Shanghai Refuse Landfill, with refuse weights of 187,600 and 10,800,000 kg, respectively, were created. These lysimeters are compared in terms of leachate quality (pH, concentrations of COD, BOD and NH3-N), refuse composition (biodegradable matter and volatile solid) and surface settlement for a monitoring period of 0-300 days. The objectives of this study were to explore both the similarities and disparities between laboratory and field scale lysimeters, and to compare degradation behaviors of refuse at the intensive reaction phase in the different scale lysimeters. Quantitative relationships of leachate quality and refuse composition with placement time show that degradation behaviors of refuse seem to depend heavily on the scales of the lysimeters and the parameters of concern, especially in the starting period of 0-6 months. However, some similarities exist between laboratory and field lysimeters after 4-6 months of placement because COD and BOD concentrations in leachate in the field lysimeter decrease regularly in a parallel pattern with those in the laboratory lysimeters. NH3-N, volatile solid (VS) and biodegradable matter (BDM) also gradually decrease in parallel in this intensive reaction phase for all scale lysimeters as refuse ages. Though the concrete data are different among the different scale lysimeters, it may be considered that laboratory lysimeters with sufficient scale are basically applicable for a rough simulation of a real landfill, especially for illustrating the degradation pattern and mechanism. Settlement of refuse surface is roughly proportional to the initial refuse height.

Outcome of a one-week intensive training workshop for veterinary diagnostic laboratory workers in Liberia.

PubMed

Williamson, Julie A; Tornquist, Susan J

2014-01-01

There is a huge unmet need for veterinary diagnostic laboratory services in developing nations such as Liberia. One way of bridging the service gap is for visiting experts to provide veterinary laboratory training to technicians in a central location in a short-course format. An intensive 1-week training workshop was organized for 18 student and faculty participants from the College of Agriculture and Integrated Development Studies (CAIDS) at Cuttington University in rural central Liberia. The training was designed and delivered by the non-governmental organization Veterinarians Without Borders US and funded through a Farmer-to-Farmer grant provided by the United States Agency for International Development. Although at the start of training none of the students had any veterinary laboratory experience, by the end of the course over 80% of the students were able to discuss appropriate care and use of a microscope and name at least three important components of laboratory record keeping; over 60% were able to describe how to make and stain a blood smear and how to perform a passive fecal flotation; and over 30% were able to describe what a packed cell volume is and how it is measured and name at least three criteria for classifying bacteria. The intensive training workshop greatly improved the knowledge of trainees about veterinary diagnostic laboratory techniques. The training provided initial skills to students and faculty who are awaiting the arrival of additional grant-funded laboratory equipment to continue their training.

Open clusters as laboratories: The angular momentum evolution of young stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stauffer, John R.

1994-01-01

This is the annual status report for the third year of our LTSA grant 'Open Clusters as Laboratories.' Because we have now had a few years to work on the project, we have started to produce and publish a large number of papers. We have been extremely successful in obtaining ROSAT observations of open clusters. With the demise of the PSPC on ROSAT, our main data source has come to an end and we will be able to concentrate on analyzing those data.

Evaluation of Unbound Engineered Nanoparticles from a Worker Exposure and Environmental Release Perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bunker, K.; Casuccio, G.; Lersch, T.; Ogle, R.; Wahl, L.

2009-12-01

Nanotechnology and the use of unbound engineered nanoparticles (UNP) is a rapidly developing area of materials science. UNP are defined as engineered nanoparticles that are not contained within a matrix that would prevent the nanoparticles from being mobile and a potential source of exposure. At this time there are no regulatory environmental release limits or worker exposure limits for UNP. The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has initiated a study to evaluate worker exposure and potential environmental release of UNP related to various research activities at LBNL. The study is being performed to help identify and manage potential health and safety hazards as well as environmental impacts related to UNP. A key component of the study is the characterization of starting (source) UNP materials to assist in the determination of worker exposure and environmental release. Analysis of the starting materials is being used to establish source signatures. The source signatures will then be used in the evaluation of worker exposure and environmental release. This presentation will provide an overview of the LBNL study with a focus on the methodologies being used to analyze the samples.

Inter-laboratory consistency and variability in the buccal micronucleus cytome assay depends on biomarker scored and laboratory experience: results from the HUMNxl international inter-laboratory scoring exercise.

PubMed

Bolognesi, Claudia; Knasmueller, Siegfried; Nersesyan, Armen; Roggieri, Paola; Ceppi, Marcello; Bruzzone, Marco; Blaszczyk, Ewa; Mielzynska-Svach, Danuta; Milic, Mirta; Bonassi, Stefano; Benedetti, Danieli; Da Silva, Juliana; Toledo, Raphael; Salvadori, Daisy Maria Fávero; Groot de Restrepo, Helena; Filipic, Metka; Hercog, Klara; Aktas, Ayça; Burgaz, Sema; Kundi, Michael; Grummt, Tamara; Thomas, Philip; Hor, Maryam; Escudero-Fung, Maria; Holland, Nina; Fenech, Michael

2017-03-01

The buccal micronucleus cytome (BMNcyt) assay in uncultured exfoliated epithelial cells from oral mucosa is widely applied in biomonitoring human exposures to genotoxic agents and is also proposed as a suitable test for prescreening and follow-up of precancerous oral lesions. The main limitation of the assay is the large variability observed in the baseline values of micronuclei (MNi) and other nuclear anomalies mainly related to different scoring criteria. The aim of this international collaborative study, involving laboratories with different level of experience, was to evaluate the inter- and intra-laboratory variations in the BMNcyt parameters, using recently implemented guidelines, in scoring cells from the same pooled samples obtained from healthy subjects (control group) and from cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy (treated group). The results indicate that all laboratories correctly discriminated samples from the two groups by a significant increase of micronucleus (MN) and nuclear bud (NBUD) frequencies and differentiated binucleated (BN) cells, associated with the exposure to ionizing radiation. The experience of the laboratories was shown to play an important role in the identification of the different cell types and nuclear anomalies. MN frequency in differentiated mononucleated (MONO) and BN cells showed the greatest consistency among the laboratories and low variability was also detected in the frequencies of MONO and BN cells. A larger variability was observed in classifying the different cell types, indicating the subjectivity in the interpretation of some of the scoring criteria while reproducibility of the results between scoring sessions was very good. An inter-laboratory calibration exercise is strongly recommended before starting studies with BMNcyt assay involving multiple research centers. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the UK Environmental Mutagen Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The PPPL - Trenton Partnership: Past, Present, Future

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Post-Zwicker, Andrew; Ritter, Christine; Morgan, James; Dejesus, Chris; Guilbert, Nick

2004-11-01

PPPL has an ongoing partnership with the Trenton, NJ public schools that leverages the unique resources of the laboratory in order to improve science education. The district is designated as an Abbott school district, one of 30 in NJ that are urban and poorer than the average. During the past year, PPPL has focused its efforts at the middle school level. A new science laboratory with an emphasis on energy and environmental studies is under construction and will open in 2005. PPPL is acting as a consultant on the design and will then provide scientific training for teachers. A middle school laboratory is a fertile starting ground for systemic change since it has the potential to affect a very susceptible student population. Simultaneously, to address current students' attitudes and encourage them, PPPL hosts the newly created middle school Science Bowl, a single day competition mixing quiz questions and a fuel cell powered car race. Finally, plans are underway to provide enrichment programs for students at PPPL and elsewhere during the summer. PPPL has the resources, expertise, and experience in the area of teacher professional experience, educational programming, and laboratory design to be the perfect agent to facilitate this effort.

[Contribution to the phytochemical study of polyphenols in ten hydroalcoholic extracts of Chamomile floss].

PubMed

Cioancă, Oana; Hăncianu, Monica; Spac, A; Miron, Anca; Stănescu, Ursula

2009-01-01

Continuing a series of studies that intend to evaluate the pharmaceutical quality of 10 commercial samples of chamomile, we tried to investigate the chemical composition of the hydroalcoholic extracts obtained in our laboratory, starting from this raw material. The qualitative and semiquantitative analysis of the extracts was done by HPLC means. All extractive solutions have a high content in ferulic acid, whereas the caffeic acid level is the lowest. Regarding the flavonoids, there are many quantitative differences between the samples: one extract lacking the rutoside and two of them having low apigenin-7-glucoside contents.

Effectiveness and predictors of failure of noninvasive mechanical ventilation in acute respiratory failure.

PubMed

Martín-González, F; González-Robledo, J; Sánchez-Hernández, F; Moreno-García, M N; Barreda-Mellado, I

2016-01-01

To assess the effectiveness and identify predictors of failure of noninvasive ventilation. A retrospective, longitudinal descriptive study was made. Adult patients with acute respiratory failure. A total of 410 consecutive patients with noninvasive ventilation treated in an Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary university hospital from 2006 to 2011. Noninvasive ventilation. Demographic variables and clinical and laboratory test parameters at the start and two hours after the start of noninvasive ventilation. Evolution during admission to the Unit and until hospital discharge. The failure rate was 50%, with an overall mortality rate of 33%. A total of 156 patients had hypoxemic respiratory failure, 87 postextubation respiratory failure, 78 exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 61 hypercapnic respiratory failure without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 28 had acute pulmonary edema. The failure rates were 74%, 54%, 27%, 31% and 21%, respectively. The etiology of respiratory failure, serum bilirubin at the start, APACHEII score, radiological findings, the need for sedation to tolerate noninvasive ventilation, changes in level of consciousness, PaO2/FIO2 ratio, respiratory rate and heart rate from the start and two hours after the start of noninvasive ventilation were independently associated to failure. The effectiveness of noninvasive ventilation varies according to the etiology of respiratory failure. Its use in hypoxemic respiratory failure and postextubation respiratory failure should be assessed individually. Predictors of failure could be useful to prevent delayed intubation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and SEMICYUC. All rights reserved.

Laron syndrome (primary growth hormone resistance or insensitivity): the personal experience 1958-2003.

PubMed

Laron, Zvi

2004-03-01

Clinical and laboratory investigations starting in 1958 of a group of dwarfed children resembling isolated GH deficiency but who had very high serum levels of GH led to the description of the syndrome of primary GH resistance or insensitivity (Laron syndrome) and subsequently to the discovery of its molecular defects residing in the GH receptor and leading to an inability of IGF-I generation. With the biosynthesis of IGF-I in 1986, therapeutic trials started. Continuously more and more patients are being diagnosed in many parts of the world with a variety of molecular defects. This syndrome proved to be a unique model that enables the study of the consequences of GH receptor defects, the physiopathology of GH-IGF-I disruption, and comparison of the GH-independent IGF-I effects. This review presents the personal experience gained from the study follow-up and treatment of the 60 patients followed up for many years in the Israeli cohort.

The behavior of an opponent alters pacing decisions in 4-km cycling time trials.

PubMed

Konings, Marco J; Schoenmakers, Patrick P J M; Walker, Andrew J; Hettinga, Florentina J

2016-05-01

The present study aimed to explore how athletes respond to different behaviors of their opponents. Twelve moderately to highly physically active participants with at least two years of cycling experience completed four 4-km time trials on a Velotron cycle ergometer. After a familiarization time trial (FAM), participants performed three experimental time trials in randomized order with no opponent (NO), a virtual opponent who started slower and finished faster compared to FAM (OP-SLOWFAST), or a virtual opponent who started faster and finished slower compared to FAM (OP-FASTSLOW). Repeated-measures ANOVAs (P<0.05) were used to examine differences in pacing and performance related to power output, velocity and RPE. OP-SLOWFAST and OP-FASTSLOW were completed faster compared to NO (385.5±27.5, 385.0±28.6, and 390.6±29.3s, respectively). An interaction effect for condition×distance (F=3.944, P<0.001) indicated differences in pacing profiles between conditions. Post-hoc analysis revealed that a less aggressive starting strategy was adopted in NO compared to OP-FASTSLOW and OP-SLOWFAST during the initial 1000m. Finally, a faster starting opponent evokes higher power outputs by the participants in the initial 750m compared to a slower starting opponent. The present study is the first to show that the behavior of an opponent affects pacing-related decisions in laboratory-controlled conditions. Our findings support the recently proposed interdependence of perception and action, and emphasize the interaction with the environment as an important determinant for an athlete's pacing decisions, especially during the initial stages of a race. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Educational area for learning of optics and technologies: union of open laboratories of ideas, methods and practices (OLIMP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivashchenko, Maksim; Bodrov, Kirill; Tolstoba, Nadezhda

2016-09-01

The paper deals with the concept of creating the union of Open Laboratories of Ideas, Methods and Practices (OLIMP). It describes the structure designed to simplify the relationship, such as business incubators, start-up accelerators, small innovative enterprises, fabrication laboratories and student centers. We consider their advantages and disadvantages for the specific audience of students and enthusiasts who do not have funding for their own projects. The experience of interaction between the Open Laboratories of Ideas, Methods and Practices and the Student Research Laboratory for Optical Engineering shows the relative impact of structures on each other and the value of using such interaction in the learning process. The paper also addresses issues such as: the motivation of students, enthusiasm for the direction the lab participants identify and maintain the initiatives, profiling in the design, scientific, commercial, social sphere.

Sandia technology & entrepreneurs improve Lasik

ScienceCinema

Neal, Dan; Turner, Tim

2018-05-11

Former Sandian Dan Neal started his company, WaveFront Sciences, based on wavefront sensing metrology technologies licensed from Sandia National Laboratories and by taking advantage of its Entrepreneurial Separation to Transfer Technology (ESTT) program. Abbott Medical Optics since acquired WaveFront and estimates that one million patients have improved the quality of their vision thanks to its products. ESTT is a valuable tool which allows Sandia to transfer technology to the private sector and Sandia employees to leave the Labs in order to start up new technology companies or help expand existing companies.

Sandia technology & entrepreneurs improve Lasik

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

Neal, Dan; Turner, Tim

2013-11-21

Former Sandian Dan Neal started his company, WaveFront Sciences, based on wavefront sensing metrology technologies licensed from Sandia National Laboratories and by taking advantage of its Entrepreneurial Separation to Transfer Technology (ESTT) program. Abbott Medical Optics since acquired WaveFront and estimates that one million patients have improved the quality of their vision thanks to its products. ESTT is a valuable tool which allows Sandia to transfer technology to the private sector and Sandia employees to leave the Labs in order to start up new technology companies or help expand existing companies.

Agrobacterium- and Biolistic-Mediated Transformation of Maize B104 Inbred.

PubMed

Raji, Jennifer A; Frame, Bronwyn; Little, Daniel; Santoso, Tri Joko; Wang, Kan

2018-01-01

Genetic transformation of maize inbred genotypes remains non-routine for many laboratories due to variations in cell competency to induce embryogenic callus, as well as the cell's ability to receive and incorporate transgenes into the genome. This chapter describes two transformation protocols using Agrobacterium- and biolistic-mediated methods for gene delivery. Immature zygotic embryos of maize inbred B104, excised from ears harvested 10-14 days post pollination, are used as starting explant material. Disarmed Agrobacterium strains harboring standard binary vectors and the biolistic gun system Bio-Rad PDS-1000/He are used as gene delivery systems. The herbicide resistant bar gene and selection agent bialaphos are used for identifying putative transgenic type I callus events. Using the step-by-step protocols described here, average transformation frequencies (number of bialaphos resistant T 0 callus events per 100 explants infected or bombarded) of 4% and 8% can be achieved using the Agrobacterium- and biolistic-mediated methods, respectively. An estimated duration of 16-21 weeks is needed using either protocol from the start of transformation experiments to obtaining putative transgenic plantlets with established roots. In addition to laboratory in vitro procedures, detailed greenhouse protocols for producing immature ears as transformation starting material and caring for transgenic plants for seed production are also described.

Chemistry in California: How it Started and How it Grew

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Norberg, Arthur L.

1976-01-01

Gives a brief history of chemistry in California during the last 100 years, including the foundation of chemical industries, the development of chemistry departments in universities and their respective specialities, and the role of California laboratories in World War II. (MLH)

The European network of Biosafety-Level-4 laboratories: enhancing European preparedness for new health threats.

PubMed

Nisii, C; Castilletti, C; Di Caro, A; Capobianchi, M R; Brown, D; Lloyd, G; Gunther, S; Lundkvist, A; Pletschette, M; Ippolito, G

2009-08-01

Emerging and re-emerging infections and possible bioterrorism acts will continue to challenge both the medical community and civilian populations worldwide, urging health authorities to respond rapidly and effectively. Established in 2005, the European Community (EC)-funded European Network of Biosafety-Level-4 laboratories (Euronet-P4), which brings together the laboratories in Porton Down, London, Hamburg, Marburg, Solna, Lyon and Rome, seeks to increase international collaboration in the areas of high containment laboratory biosafety and viral diagnostic capability, to strengthen Europe's capacity to respond to an infectious disease emergency, and to offer assistance to countries not equipped with such costly facilities. Network partners have agreed on a common strategy to fill the gaps identified in the field of risk group-4 agents' laboratory diagnosis, namely the lack of standardization and of reference samples. The network has received a further 3-year funding, to offer assistance to external laboratories, and to start the planning of field activities.

Situation analysis of occupational and environmental health laboratory accreditation in Thailand.

PubMed

Sithisarankul, Pornchai; Santiyanont, Rachana; Wongpinairat, Chongdee; Silva, Panadda; Rojanajirapa, Pinnapa; Wangwongwatana, Supat; Srinetr, Vithet; Sriratanaban, Jiruth; Chuntutanon, Swanya

2002-06-01

The objective of this study was to analyze the current situation of laboratory accreditation (LA) in Thailand, especially on occupational and environmental health. The study integrated both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The response rate of the quantitative questionnaires was 54.5% (226/415). The majority of the responders was environmental laboratories located outside hospital and did not have proficiency testing. The majority used ISO 9000, ISO/IEC 17025 or ISO/ EEC Guide 25, and hospital accreditation (HA) as their quality system. However, only 30 laboratories were currently accredited by one of these systems. Qualitative research revealed that international standard for laboratory accreditation for both testing laboratory and calibration laboratory was ISO/IEC Guide 25, which has been currently revised to be ISO/IEC 17025. The National Accreditation Council (NAC) has authorized 2 organizations as Accreditation Bodies (ABs) for LA: Thai Industrial Standards Institute, Ministry of Industry, and Bureau of Laboratory Quality Standards, Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health. Regarding LA in HA, HA considered clinical laboratory as only 1 of 31 items for accreditation. Obtaining HA might satisfy the hospital director and his management team, and hence might actually be one of the obstacles for the hospital to further improve their laboratory quality system and apply for ISO/IEC 17025 which was more technically oriented. On the other hand, HA may be viewed as a good start or even a pre-requisite for laboratories in the hospitals to further improve their quality towards ISO/IEC 17025. Interviewing the director of NAC and some key men in some large laboratories revealed several major problems of Thailand's LA. Both Thai Industrial Standards Institute and Bureau of Laboratory Quality Standards did not yet obtain Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with other international ABs. Several governmental bodies had their own standards and accreditation systems, and did not accept other bodies' standards and systems. This put a burden to private laboratories because they had to apply and get accredited from several governmental bodies, but still had to apply and get accredited from international ABs especially for those dealing with exports. There were only few calibration laboratories, not enough for supporting the calibration required for the equipment in testing laboratories' LA. Purchasing proficiency testing specimens from abroad was very expensive, and often got into troubles with the customs duty procedures. The authors recommend some strategies and activities to improve laboratory accreditation in Thailand. Improvement in occupational and environmental health laboratories would essentially be beneficial to laboratory accreditation of other areas such as clinical laboratory.

An historical overview of the activities in the field of exposure and risk assessment of non-ionizing radiation in Bulgaria.

PubMed

Israel, Michel

2015-09-01

The exposure and risk evaluation process in Bulgaria concerning non-ionizing radiation health and safety started in the early 1970s. Then, the first research laboratory "Electromagnetic fields in the working environment" was founded in the framework of the Centre of Hygiene, belonging to the Medical Academy, Sofia. The main activities were connected with developing legislation, new equipment for measurement of electromagnetic fields, new methods for measurement and exposure assessment, in vivo and human studies for developing methods, studying the effect of non-ionizing radiation on human body, developing exposure limits. Most of the occupations as metal industry, plastic welding, energetics, physiotherapy, broadcasting, telephone stations, computer industry, etc., have been covered by epidemiological investigations and risk evaluation. In 1986, the ANSI standard for safe use of lasers has been implemented as national legislation that gave the start for studies in the field of risk assessment concerning the use of lasers in industry and medicine. The environmental exposure studies started in 1991 following the very fast implementation of the telecommunication technologies. Now, funds for research are very insignificant, and studies in the field of risk assessment are very few. Nevertheless, Bulgaria has been an active member of the WHO International EMF Project, since 1997, and that gives good opportunity for collaboration with other Member states, and for implementation of new approach in the EMF policy for workers and people's protection against non-ionizing radiation exposure.

Historical perspectives on thermostructural research at the NACA Langley Aeronautical Laboratory from 1948 to 1958

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heldenfels, R. R.

1982-01-01

Some of the early research on structural problems produced by aerodynamic heating, conducted at the Langley Aeronautical Laboratory of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics from 1948 to 1958 is described. That was the last decade of the NACA; in 1958 NACA became the nucleus of NASA. The NACA initially contracted for research but was aware that a well-equipped and suitably staffed laboratory was required to fulfill its obligations. Langley was established in 1920; the other listed were added during the NACA expansion in the World War II years. Some specific research activities are described, starting with calculation of the temperature of the structure.

Historical perspectives on thermostructural research at the NACA Langley Aeronautical Laboratory from 1948 to 1958

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heldenfels, R. R.

Some of the early research on structural problems produced by aerodynamic heating, conducted at the Langley Aeronautical Laboratory of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics from 1948 to 1958 is described. That was the last decade of the NACA; in 1958 NACA became the nucleus of NASA. The NACA initially contracted for research but was aware that a well-equipped and suitably staffed laboratory was required to fulfill its obligations. Langley was established in 1920; the other listed were added during the NACA expansion in the World War II years. Some specific research activities are described, starting with calculation of the temperature of the structure.

Cell cycle behavior of laboratory and field populations of the Florida red tide dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Dolah, Frances M.; Leighfield, Tod A.; Kamykowski, Daniel; Kirkpatrick, Gary J.

2008-01-01

As a component of the ECOHAB Florida Regional Field Program, this study addresses cell cycle behavior and its importance to bloom formation of the Florida red tide dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis. The cell cycle of K. brevis was first studied by flow cytometry in laboratory batch cultures, and a laboratory mesocosm column, followed by field populations over the 5-year course of the ECOHAB program. Under all conditions studied, K. brevis displayed diel phased cell division with S-phase beginning a minimum of 6 h after the onset of light and continuing for 12-14 h. Mitosis occurred during the dark, and was generally completed by the start of the next day. The timing of cell cycle phases relative to the diel cycle did not differ substantially in bloom populations displaying radically different growth rates ( μmin 0.17-0.55) under different day lengths and temperature conditions. The rhythm of cell cycle progression is independent from the rhythm controlling vertical migration, as similar cell cycle distributions are found at all depths of the water column in field samples. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of our current understanding of the dinoflagellate cell cycle and the development of improved models for K. brevis bloom growth.

High-intensity aerobic interval training can lead to improvement in skeletal muscle power among in-hospital patients with advanced heart failure.

PubMed

Taya, Masanobu; Amiya, Eisuke; Hatano, Masaru; Maki, Hisataka; Nitta, Daisuke; Saito, Akihito; Tsuji, Masaki; Hosoya, Yumiko; Minatsuki, Shun; Nakayama, Atsuko; Fujiwara, Takayuki; Konishi, Yuto; Yokota, Kazuhiko; Watanabe, Masafumi; Morita, Hiroyuki; Haga, Nobuhiko; Komuro, Issei

2018-01-15

This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of interval training during in-hospital treatment of patients with advanced heart failure. Twenty-four consecutive patients with advanced symptomatic heart failure who were referred for cardiac transplant evaluation were recruited. After performing aerobic exercise for approximate intensity, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) was performed. The protocol consisted of 3 or 4 sessions of 1-min high-intensity exercise aimed at 80% of peak VO 2 or 80% heart rate reserve, followed by 4-min recovery periods of low intensity. In addition to the necessary laboratory data, hand grip strength and knee extensor strength were evaluated at the start of exercise training and both at the start and the end of HIIT. Knee extensor strength was standardized by body weight. The BNP level at the start of exercise training was 432 (812) pg/mL and it significantly decreased to 254 (400) pg/mL (p < 0.001) at the end of HIIT. Hand grip strength did not change during course. By contrast, knee extensor strength significantly increased during HIIT [4.42 ± 1.43 → 5.28 ± 1.45 N/kg, p < 0.001], whereas the improvement of knee extensor strength was not significant from the start of exercise training to the start of HIIT. In addition, the change in knee extensor strength during HIIT was significantly associated with the hemoglobin A1c level at the start of exercise (R = - 0.55; p = 0.015). HIIT has a positive impact on skeletal muscle strength among in-hospital patients with advanced heart failure.

Physiology undergraduate degree requirements in the U.S.

PubMed

VanRyn, Valerie S; Poteracki, James M; Wehrwein, Erica A

2017-12-01

Course-level learning objectives and core concepts for undergraduate physiology teaching exist. The next step is to consider how these resources fit into generalizable program-level guidelines for Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in Physiology. In the absence of program-level guidelines for Physiology degree programs, we compiled a selective internal report to review degree requirements from 18 peer BS programs entitled "Physiology" in the United States (U.S.). There was a range of zero to three required semesters of math, physics, physics laboratory, general biology, biology laboratory, general chemistry, chemistry laboratory, organic chemistry, organic chemistry laboratory, biochemistry, biochemistry laboratory, anatomy, anatomy laboratory, core systems physiology, and physiology laboratory. Required upper division credits ranged from 11 to 31 and included system-specific, exercise and environmental, clinically relevant, pathology/disease-related, and basic science options. We hope that this information will be useful for all programs that consider themselves to be physiology, regardless of name. Reports such as this can serve as a starting point for collaboration among BS programs to improve physiology undergraduate education and best serve our students. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

[In Process Citation].

PubMed

Stahnisch, Frank W

2014-01-01

Since the middle of the Nineteenth Century, neurophysiological researchers such as Theodor Fechner (1801-1887), Wilhelm Wundt (1832-1920), or Maximilian Ruppert Franz von Frey (1852-1932) started to analyze the causes, propagation, and perception of "pain" in the nervous system through the systematic use of experimental laboratory investigations. Particularly, Theodor Fechner's groundbreaking works made the contemporary neurophysiologists aware of the potential inclusion of psychological and subjective perceptions as a respectable object for the experimental study in mid-nineteenth century laboratories and clinical wards. Wilhelm Wundt frequently crossed the intersections between animal and human subject research and opened up many theoretical discussions, which also incorporated pluridisciplinary perspectives. On the research side, Wundt worked with many experimental physiological methods, developed theoretical psychophysiological considerations, and provided a detailed philosophical analysis of the new experimental findings and the subjective accounts of pain perceptions in his test persons--among many other experimental and investigative approaches. While each one of these neurophysiologists' research programs have been extensively studied in their own right, their mutual contributions to modern pain research and impact on this emerging interdisciplinary field of biomedical, psychophysiological and philosophical studies have so far not sufficiently been analyzed from a historiographical perspective. This even regards their highly sophisticated instruments and apparatuses that they applied to the study of pain, which Maximilian von Frey used further in the medical wards at the Fin de Siècle. These instruments became applied to many patients with acute or chronic pain disorders. In a way, the substantial time lag between early laboratory research and the application of these findings in the medical clinics of the time could also be explained as a process of newly defining the boundaries of the experimental instrumentation by situating the physiological apparatuses and experiments alongside the spectrum from threshold values to normal values. This hence led to the recalibration of the new field of investigations of pain phenomena. Until today, the elements of phenomenological "identification", "evaluation" and "physical reduction", which these pioneers had started and importantly put on the scientific map of nineteenth-century medicine and neuroscience, accompany the scientific endeavour of modern pain research.

Tip-Nanoparticle Near-Field Coupling in Scanning Near-Field Microscopy by Coupled Dipole Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruan, Yi; Li, Kan; Lin, Qiang; Zhang, Ting

2018-04-01

Not Available Supported by the Start-Up Grant of Zhejiang University of Technology, the Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Information Processing, Communication and Networking, the Zhejiang University, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No 61605171.

Single Crystal Substrates for Surface Acoustic Wave Devices.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

Research Laboratory 2W 5 University Park PA 16802____________ 1 1. CONTROLLING OFFICE NAME ANO ADDRESS Deputy for Electronic Technology (RADC/ EEA )// Janu...avoid contamination during the preparation of the reacted starting powders. Mixina was performed in plastic hall mills with teflon rollers, and sinterinq

STS-112 Water Survival Training, SCTF, NBL

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-02-19

JSC2002-00528 (19 February 2002) --- Astronaut Pamela A. Melroy, STS-112 pilot, attired in a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, awaits the start of a mission training session at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center (JSC).

STS-112 Water Survival Training, SCTF, NBL

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-02-19

JSC2002-00521 (19 February 2002) --- Astronaut Jeffrey S. Ashby, STS-112 mission commander, attired in a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, awaits the start of a mission training session at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center (JSC).

STS-112 Water Survival Training, SCTF, NBL

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-02-19

JSC2002-00522 (19 February 2002) --- Astronaut David A. Wolf, STS-112 mission specialist, attired in a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, awaits the start of a mission training session at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center (JSC).

Synthesis of the Commercial Antidepressant Moclobemide

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

More, Jesse D.

2008-01-01

An experiment for the undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory is described in which students synthesize the commercial antidepressant drug moclobemide, marketed under the trade name Manerix. This one-step synthesis starts from commercially available material and produces moclobemide in high yield. The product is initially isolated as its…

Intracranial toxoplasmosis presenting as panhypopituitarism in an immunocompromised patient.

PubMed

Hamdeh, Shadi; Abbas, Anum; Fraker, Jessica; Lambrecht, J E

2015-12-01

A 37-year-old man presented with worsening headache, vomiting, and right-sided weakness over the last few weeks. A head computed tomography showed a left hemispheric posterior medial parietal lobe lesion with surrounding edema. Further imaging with magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple enhancing mass lesions. The largest lesion measured 2.4 cm within the left occipital parietal region (Figure A and B). Laboratory data showed reactive HIV antibodies, confirmed by Western blot. An absolute CD4 count was 22 cells/μL. Other laboratory test results showed low sodium, thyrotropin, FT4, FT3, cortisol levels, corticotropin, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone. Based on these findings, the brain lesions were believed to be causing his panhypopituitarism. A brain biopsy confirmed the presence of Toxoplasma gondii by polymerase chain reaction. The patient was started on pyrimethamine and clindamycin for toxoplasmosis treatment, and azithromycin and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprime for appropriate prophylaxis. He was also started on hormone supplementation. His symptoms were completely resolved at the time of discharge.

Design Definition Study Report. Full Crew Interaction Simulator-Laboratory Model (FCIS-LM) (Device X17B7). Volume I. Problem Analysis.

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-06-01

and Sound Levels. Tank sound characteris- tics can be categorized by four areas of tank operation. These are: engine starting and running, mobility or...the use of the ballistic computer system. The indirect sighting and fire control system consists of the elevation quadrant M13A3, a control light source...in low ambient 2-22 temperatures. No controls or indicators are provided for the engine air intake system. The exhaust system has four engine

Implementing a bar-coded bedside medication administration system.

PubMed

Yates, Cindy

2007-01-01

Hospitals across the nation are struggling with implementing electronic medication administration and reporting (eMAR) systems as part of patient safety programs. St Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield, Mo, initiated their eMAR initiative in June 2003, initiating program start-up in September 2004. This case study documents how the project was approached, its overall success, and what was learned along the way. Also included is a recent update highlighting the expansion of St Luke's patient safety initiative, adapting eMAR to two specialty units: dialysis and laboratory processes.

Implementation of a configurable laboratory information management system for use in cellular process development and manufacturing.

PubMed

Russom, Diana; Ahmed, Amira; Gonzalez, Nancy; Alvarnas, Joseph; DiGiusto, David

2012-01-01

Regulatory requirements for the manufacturing of cell products for clinical investigation require a significant level of record-keeping, starting early in process development and continuing through to the execution and requisite follow-up of patients on clinical trials. Central to record-keeping is the management of documentation related to patients, raw materials, processes, assays and facilities. To support these requirements, we evaluated several laboratory information management systems (LIMS), including their cost, flexibility, regulatory compliance, ongoing programming requirements and ability to integrate with laboratory equipment. After selecting a system, we performed a pilot study to develop a user-configurable LIMS for our laboratory in support of our pre-clinical and clinical cell-production activities. We report here on the design and utilization of this system to manage accrual with a healthy blood-donor protocol, as well as manufacturing operations for the production of a master cell bank and several patient-specific stem cell products. The system was used successfully to manage blood donor eligibility, recruiting, appointments, billing and serology, and to provide annual accrual reports. Quality management reporting features of the system were used to capture, report and investigate process and equipment deviations that occurred during the production of a master cell bank and patient products. Overall the system has served to support the compliance requirements of process development and phase I/II clinical trial activities for our laboratory and can be easily modified to meet the needs of similar laboratories.

Constraints in the diagnosis and treatment of Lassa Fever and the effect on mortality in hospitalized children and women with obstetric conditions in a rural district hospital in Sierra Leone.

PubMed

Dahmane, A; van Griensven, J; Van Herp, M; Van den Bergh, R; Nzomukunda, Y; Prior, J; Alders, P; Jambai, A; Zachariah, R

2014-03-01

Lassa fever (LF) is an acute viral haemorrhagic infection, endemic in West Africa. Confirmatory diagnosis and treatment (ribavirin) is difficult, expensive, and restricted to specialised hospitals. Among confirmed and suspected LF cases, we report on clinical and laboratory features, timing and administration of ribavirin and the relationship with case fatality. We conducted an audit of patient files of suspected LF cases admitted to a pediatric and obstetric referral hospital in rural Sierra Leone (April 2011 to February 2012). There were 84 suspected LF cases; 36 (43%) were laboratory-confirmed cases, of whom only 20 (56%) received ribavirin after a median duration of eight days (IQR 314 days) of hospital admission. Of 16 patients who did not receive ribavirin, 14 (87%) died before ribavirin treatment could be commenced. Starting ribavirin within six days of admission was associated with a case fatality of 29% (2/7), while starting ribavirin later than six days was associated with a case fatality of 50% (6/12). Among the 48 suspected LF cases without laboratory confirmation, there were 21 (44%) deaths. These findings highlight shortcomings in LF management, including diagnostic and treatment delays. More research and development efforts should be devoted to this 'neglected disease'.

[Systemic lupus erythematosus in the native inhabitants of Tadzhikistan].

PubMed

Rasulov, U R

1990-01-01

A total of 106 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) underwent clinico-laboratory comparative studies. There were 3 groups of patients. Of these, 43 patients were examined in Moscow, 34 natives of Tadzhikistan (Tadzhiks and Uzbeks), and 29 patients belonging to the nonindigenous population were examined in Dushanbe. For estimation purposes use was made of routine clinical-instrumental and laboratory methods including the determination of antinuclear factor (ANF). The clinicoimmunological features of SLE seen in the natives of Tadzhikistan consisted in a more frequent demonstration of facial erythema, arthritis, oral ulcerations and clinical criteria for ARA on the whole; in a rarer demonstration of capillaritis, serositis, and laboratory criteria for ARA including ANF. SLE patients belonging to the non-indigenous population of Tadzhikistan occupy an intermediate place between SLE patients belonging to the indigenous population and patients living in Moscow. By their clinico-laboratory parameters, however, they are closer to the Moscow group patients excluding the age at which the disease occurs. In the nonindigenous population of Tadzhikistan, the disease appeared to start 10 years later. The clinico-laboratory differences as well as those in the age of the disease onset in the indigenous and nonindigenous population of Tadzhikistan form the basis for elaborating the medical and social measures with a purpose of goal-oriented identification of factors at risk for the development of SLE in Tadzhikistan bearing in mind the ethnic characteristics.

Evaluation of coral pathogen growth rates after exposure to atmospheric African dust samples

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lisle, John T.; Garrison, Virginia H.; Gray, Michael A.

2014-01-01

Laboratory experiments were conducted to assess if exposure to atmospheric African dust stimulates or inhibits the growth of four putative bacterial coral pathogens. Atmospheric dust was collected from a dust-source region (Mali, West Africa) and from Saharan Air Layer masses over downwind sites in the Caribbean [Trinidad and Tobago and St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)]. Extracts of dust samples were used to dose laboratory-grown cultures of four putative coral pathogens: Aurantimonas coralicida (white plague type II), Serratia marcescens (white pox), Vibrio coralliilyticus, and V. shiloi (bacteria-induced bleaching). Growth of A. coralicida and V. shiloi was slightly stimulated by dust extracts from Mali and USVI, respectively, but unaffected by extracts from the other dust sources. Lag time to the start of log-growth phase was significantly shortened for A. coralicida when dosed with dust extracts from Mali and USVI. Growth of S. marcescens and V. coralliilyticus was neither stimulated nor inhibited by any of the dust extracts. This study demonstrates that constituents from atmospheric dust can alter growth of recognized coral disease pathogens under laboratory conditions.

[Monitoring nosocomial infections using a laboratory-based system].

PubMed

Montella, F; Gallo, S; Leacche, G; Macchia, G

1998-01-01

In this paper we report the results of a nosocomial infections surveillance system "Laboratory Based". The system started in August 1995 at San Giovanni Hospital, Rome. All the specimens sent to the Microbiology Laboratory have been registered using a computerized input form. 12,204 forms, attributable to patients between 0 and 97 years (median 43 years) resulted evaluable. The global rate of incidence of nosocomial infection was, in the study period, 16 per one thousand person/day. The rate of incidence, when stratified for the medical, surgical and emergency boards, was, respectively, 19 per one thousand person/day in the medical facilities, 15 per one thousand person/day in surgical and 17 per one thousand person/year in emergency facilities. The nosocomial infections incidence correlated well with the age of the patients and the time of bed stay. The bulk of infections were localized to the respiratory apparatus. Localization to urinary apparatus and sepsis follow. The isolated microbes were (38%) gram-negative microbes; the 38% of the isolates are gram-negative microbes and the 24% are Mycetes. Our data validate the surveillance system in a great hospital of Rome metropolitan area.

Laboratory investigation on super-Earths atmospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erculiani, M. S.; Claudi, R. U.; Lessio, L.; Farisato, G.; Giro, E.; Cocola, L.; Billi, D.; D'alessandro, M.; Pace, E.; Schierano, D.; Benatti, S.; Bonavita, M.; Galletta, G.

2014-04-01

In the framework of Atmosphere in a Test Tube, at the Astronomical Observatory of Padova (INAF) we are going to perform experiments aimed to understand the possible modification of the atmosphere by photosynthetic biota present on the planet surface. This goal can be achieved simulating M star planetary environmental conditions. The bacteria that are being studied are Acaryochloris marina, Chroococcidiopsis spp. and Halomicronema hingdechloris. Tests will be performed with LISA or MINI-LISA ambient simulator in the laboratory of the Padova Astronomic Observatory. In this paper we describe the whole road map to follow in order to perform experiments and to obtain useful data to be compared with the real ones that will be obtained by the future space missions. Starting by a fiducial experiment we will modify either environmental and thermodynamical properties in order to simulate both real irradiation by an M star and gas mixture mimicing super earths atmospheres. These laboratory tests could be used as a guideline in order to understand whether chemical disequilibrium of O2, CO2 and CH4 could be ascribed to biotic life forms.

A dynamic case definition is warranted for adequate notification in an extended epidemic setting: the Dutch Q fever outbreak 2007-2009 as exemplar.

PubMed

Jaramillo-Gutierrez, G; Wegdam-Blans, M C; ter Schegget, R; Korbeeck, J M; van Aken, R; Bijlmer, H A; Tjhie, J H; Koopmans, M P

2013-10-10

Q fever is a notifiable disease in the Netherlands:laboratories are obliged to notify possible cases to the Municipal Health Services. These services then try to reconfirm cases with additional clinical and epidemiological data and provide anonymised reports to the national case register of notifiable diseases. Since the start of the 2007–2009 Dutch Q fever outbreak,notification rules remained unchanged, despite new laboratory insights and altered epidemiology. In this study, we retrospectively analysed how these changes influenced the proportion of laboratory-defined acute Q fever cases (confirmed, probable and possible)that were included in the national case register, during(2009) and after the outbreak (2010 and 2011).The number of laboratory-defined cases notified to the Municipal Health Services was 377 in 2009, 96 in 2010 and 50 in 2011. Of these, 186 (49.3%) in 2009, 12(12.5%) in 2010 and 9 (18.0%) in 2011 were confirmed as acute infection by laboratory interpretation. The proportion of laboratory-defined acute Q fever cases that was reconfirmed by the Municipal Health Services and that were included in the national case register decreased from 90% in 2009, to 22% and 24% in 2010 and 2011, respectively. The decrease was observed in all categories of cases, including those considered to be confirmed by laboratory criteria. Continued use ofa pre-outbreak case definition led to over-reporting of cases to the Municipal Health Services in the post-epidemic years. Therefore we recommend dynamic laboratory notification rules, by reviewing case definitions periodically in an ongoing epidemic, as in the Dutch Q fever outbreak.

DNA: The Strand that Connects Us All

ScienceCinema

Kaplan, Matt [Univ. of Arizona, Tucson, AZ (United States). Genetics Core Facility

2018-04-26

Learn how the methods and discoveries of human population genetics are applied for personal genealogical reconstruction and anthropological testing. Dr. Kaplan starts with a short general review of human genetics and the biology behind this form of DNA testing. He looks at how DNA testing is performed and how samples are processed in the University of Arizona laboratory. He also examines examples of personal genealogical results from Family Tree DNA and personal anthropological results from the Genographic Project. Finally, he describes the newest project in the UA laboratory, the DNA Shoah Project.

KSC-06pd0633

NASA Image and Video Library

2006-04-03

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Marc Reagan (left) and Bill Todd, NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO) project leads, have left the current NEEMO team in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Aquarius Underwater Laboratory to start their 17-day mission. The team comprises astronauts Dave Williams (team leader), Nicole Stott and Ron Garan, plus Dr. Tim Broderick of the University of Cincinnati. The astronauts are testing space medicine concepts and moon-walking techniques. The undersea laboratory is situated three miles off Key Largo in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, anchored 62 feet below the surface.

A new and compact system at the AMS laboratory in Bucharest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stan-Sion, C.; Enachescu, M.; Petre, A. R.; Simion, C. A.; Calinescu, C. I.; Ghita, D. G.

2015-10-01

AMS research started more than 15 years ago at our National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering (IFIN-HH), Bucharest. A first facility was constructed based on our multipurpose 9 MV tandem accelerator and was upgraded several times. In May 2012 a new Cockcroft Walton type 1 MV HVEE tandetron AMS system, was commissioned. Two chemistry laboratories were constructed and are routinely performing the target preparation for carbon dating and for other isotope applications such as for geology, environment physics, medicine and forensic physics. Performance parameters of the new system are shown.

Attachment Anxiety, Verbal Immediacy, and Blood Pressure: Results from a Laboratory-Analogue Study Following Marital Separation

PubMed Central

Lee, Lauren A.; Sbarra, David A.; Mason, Ashley E.; Law, Rita W.

2011-01-01

Marital separation and divorce increase risk for all-cause morbidity and mortality. Using a laboratory analogue paradigm, the present study examined attachment anxiety, language use, and blood pressure (BP) reactivity among 119 (n = 43 men, 76 women) recently separated adults who were asked to mentally reflect on their relationship history and separation experience. We created a language use composite of verbal immediacy from participants’ stream-of-consciousness recordings about their separation experience as a behavioral index of attachment-related hyperactivation. Verbal immediacy moderated the association between attachment anxiety and BP at the beginning of a divorce-specific activation task. Participants reporting high attachment anxiety who discussed their separation in a first-person, present-oriented and highly engaged manner evidenced the highest levels of BP at the start of the divorce-specific task. Results provide a deeper understanding of the association between marital dissolution and health and suggest that verbal immediacy may be a useful behavioral index of hyperactivating coping strategies. PMID:21647240

Attachment Anxiety, Verbal Immediacy, and Blood Pressure: Results from a Laboratory-Analogue Study Following Marital Separation.

PubMed

Lee, Lauren A; Sbarra, David A; Mason, Ashley E; Law, Rita W

2011-06-01

Marital separation and divorce increase risk for all-cause morbidity and mortality. Using a laboratory analogue paradigm, the present study examined attachment anxiety, language use, and blood pressure (BP) reactivity among 119 (n = 43 men, 76 women) recently separated adults who were asked to mentally reflect on their relationship history and separation experience. We created a language use composite of verbal immediacy from participants' stream-of-consciousness recordings about their separation experience as a behavioral index of attachment-related hyperactivation. Verbal immediacy moderated the association between attachment anxiety and BP at the beginning of a divorce-specific activation task. Participants reporting high attachment anxiety who discussed their separation in a first-person, present-oriented and highly engaged manner evidenced the highest levels of BP at the start of the divorce-specific task. Results provide a deeper understanding of the association between marital dissolution and health and suggest that verbal immediacy may be a useful behavioral index of hyperactivating coping strategies.

Guidelines for the standardization of preanalytic variables for blood-based biomarker studies in Alzheimer’s disease research

PubMed Central

Gupta, Veer; Henriksen, Kim; Edwards, Melissa; Jeromin, Andreas; Lista, Simone; Bazenet, Chantal; Soares, Holly; Lovestone, Simon; Hampel, Harald; Montine, Thomas; Blennow, Kaj; Foroud, Tatiana; Carrillo, Maria; Graff-Radford, Neill; Laske, Christoph; Breteler, Monique; Shaw, Leslie; Trojanowski, John Q.; Schupf, Nicole; Rissman, Robert A.; Fagan, Anne M.; Oberoi, Pankaj; Umek, Robert; Weiner, Michael W.; Grammas, Paula; Posner, Holly; Martins, Ralph

2015-01-01

The lack of readily available biomarkers is a significant hindrance towards progressing to effective therapeutic and preventative strategies for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Blood-based biomarkers have potential to overcome access and cost barriers and greatly facilitate advanced neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid biomarker approaches. Despite the fact that preanalytical processing is the largest source of variability in laboratory testing, there are no currently available standardized preanalytical guidelines. The current international working group provides the initial starting point for such guidelines for standardized operating procedures (SOPs). It is anticipated that these guidelines will be updated as additional research findings become available. The statement provides (1) a synopsis of selected preanalytical methods utilized in many international AD cohort studies, (2) initial draft guidelines/SOPs for preanalytical methods, and (3) a list of required methodological information and protocols to be made available for publications in the field in order to foster cross-validation across cohorts and laboratories. PMID:25282381

A Green, Enantioselective Synthesis of Warfarin for the Undergraduate Organic Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wong, Terence C.; Sultana, Camille M.; Vosburg, David A.

2010-01-01

The enantioselective synthesis of drugs is of fundamental importance in the pharmaceutical industry. In this experiment, students synthesize either enantiomer of warfarin, a widely used anticoagulant, in a single step from inexpensive starting materials. Stereoselectivity is induced by a commercial organocatalyst, ("R","R")- or…

Anatomy "Steeplechase" Online: Necessity Sometimes Is the Catalyst for Innovation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inuwa, Ibrahim Muhammad; Al Rawahy, Maimouna; Taranikanti, Varna; Habbal, Omar

2011-01-01

In most medical schools, summative practical examination in Anatomy usually takes the format of a "steeplechase" ("spotters" or "bell ringers") conducted in the gross anatomy laboratory using cadaveric material and prosected specimens. Recently, we have started to administer similar examinations online using the quiz…

Fire Safety Fundamentals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roy, Ken

2004-01-01

Planning and prevention is the best defense against fires in school. This is particularly true in the science laboratory due to the presence of flammable gases, liquids, combustibles, and other potential sources of fire. Teachers can prevent fires from starting by maintaining prudent lab practices when dealing with combustible and flammable…

"Crown Ether" Synthesis: An Organic Laboratory Experiment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Field, Kurt W.; And Others

1979-01-01

This experiment is designed to acquaint the student with a macromolecular synthesis of a crown ether type compound. The starting materials are readily available and the product, a cyclic polyether, belongs to a class of compounds that has aroused the interest of chemist and biologist alike. (Author/BB)

STS-124 Crewmembers at the NBL

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-01-23

JSC2008-E-006612 (23 Jan. 2008) --- Attired in a training version of his Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuit, astronaut Ronald J. Garan, STS-124 mission specialist, awaits the start of a training session in the waters of the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center.

Evaluating the influence of at-risk alcohol use on factors associated with smoking cessation: Combining laboratory and ecological momentary assessment.

PubMed

Sells, Joanna R; Waters, Andrew J; MacLean, R Ross

2017-10-01

Most smokers want to quit but most cessation attempts end in failure. Alcohol consumption is associated with smoking behavior and relapse. We examined the associations between severity of drinking and psychological processes during a cessation attempt in the laboratory and during a quit attempt. Smokers (N=209) enrolled in a smoking cessation study were followed from 2 weeks pre-quit through 4 weeks post-quit. Participants scoring 0-7 and 8-15 on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) were classified as low-risk and high-risk drinkers, respectively. Participants attended one pre-quit laboratory session before which they were required to abstain from smoking and another pre-quit session before which they smoked normally. Craving was assessed in the laboratory with the Questionnaire for Smoking Urges (QSU). A subsample of the participants also completed a 1-week ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study starting on the quit day. During EMA, craving for cigarettes was assessed, and attentional bias was assessed using a smoking Stroop task (n=119). High (vs. low) risk participants reported greater abstinence-induced increases in craving in the laboratory, and also exhibited greater attentional bias on the smoking Stroop task during EMA. High-risk drinkers exhibited a stronger increase in desire to smoke in abstinence and greater attentional bias to smoking cues early in a quit attempt, both of which may motivate continued smoking behaviors. High-risk drinkers may require more intensive or different smoking cessation interventions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High power bipolar lead-acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halpert, Gerald; Attia, Alan

1991-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), with interest in advanced energy storage systems, is involved in the development of a unique lead acid battery design. This battery utilizes the same combination of lead and lead dioxide active materials present in the automobile starting battery. However, it can provide 2 to 10 times the power while minimizing volume and weight. The typical starting battery is described as a monopolar type using one current collector for both the positive and negative plate of adjacent cells. Specific power as high as 2.5 kW/kg was projected for 30 second periods with as many as 2000 recharge cycles.

Hollow-Cathode Source Generates Plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deininger, W. D.; Aston, G.; Pless, L. C.

1989-01-01

Device generates argon, krypton, or xenon plasma via thermionic emission and electrical discharge within hollow cathode and ejects plasma into surrounding vacuum. Goes from cold start up to full operation in less than 5 s after initial application of power. Exposed to moist air between operations without significant degradation of starting and running characteristics. Plasma generated by electrical discharge in cathode barrel sustained and aided by thermionic emission from emitter tube. Emitter tube does not depend on rare-earth oxides, making it vulnerable to contamination by exposure to atmosphere. Device modified for use as source of plasma in laboratory experiments or industrial processes.

Plant Cell Division Analyzed by Transient Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation of Tobacco BY-2 Cells.

PubMed

Buschmann, Henrik

2016-01-01

The continuing analysis of plant cell division will require additional protein localization studies. This is greatly aided by GFP-technology, but plant transformation and the maintenance of transgenic lines can present a significant technical bottleneck. In this chapter I describe a method for the Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of tobacco BY-2 cells. The method allows for the microscopic analysis of fluorescence-tagged proteins in dividing cells in within 2 days after starting a coculture. This transient transformation procedure requires only standard laboratory equipment. It is hoped that this rapid method would aid researchers conducting live-cell localization studies in plant mitosis and cytokinesis.

The use of rasagiline in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Schapira, A H V

2006-01-01

Rasagiline is a novel, potent, irreversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidative B developed for the symptomatic treatment of Parkinson's disease. The drug has shown efficacy in improving motor features in both early and advanced Parkinson's disease patients. The drug appears to be well tolerated and its once daily fixed dose formulation should make for excellent compliance. Rasagiline has also demonstrated important neuroprotective properties in both in vitro and in vivo laboratory studies. A provisional study of neuroprotection in a delayed start clinical trial of early PD patients has also suggested that this benefit may be translated to the clinic. Additional clinical trials are underway to confirm this.

"A study in nature": the Tuskegee experiments and the New South plantation.

PubMed

Rusert, Britt

2009-09-01

This essay rethinks the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiments in light of a long history of experimentation in plantation geographies of the U.S. South. Turning to late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century discourses of the New South and to Booker T. Washington's Tuskegee Institute, this essay illuminates the extension of the laboratory life of the plantation into the twentieth century. The focus on personal hygiene at the Tuskegee Institute opened the door for alliances with public health initiatives early on, making the school's student population as well as residents of surrounding counties subjects of intense hygienic surveillance well before the official start of the syphilis study.

The fascinating and secret wild life of the budding yeast S. cerevisiae

PubMed Central

Liti, Gianni

2015-01-01

The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been used in laboratory experiments for over a century and has been instrumental in understanding virtually every aspect of molecular biology and genetics. However, it wasn't until a decade ago that the scientific community started to realise how little was known about this yeast's ecology and natural history, and how this information was vitally important for interpreting its biology. Recent large-scale population genomics studies coupled with intensive field surveys have revealed a previously unappreciated wild lifestyle of S. cerevisiae outside the restrictions of human environments and laboratories. The recent discovery that Chinese isolates harbour almost twice as much genetic variation as isolates from the rest of the world combined suggests that Asia is the likely origin of the modern budding yeast. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.05835.001 PMID:25807086

A journey from nuclear criticality methods to high energy density radflow experiments

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

Urbatsch, Todd James

Los Alamos National Laboratory is a nuclear weapons laboratory supporting our nation's defense. In support of this mission is a high energy-density physics program in which we design and execute experiments to study radiationhydrodynamics phenomena and improve the predictive capability of our largescale multi-physics software codes on our big-iron computers. The Radflow project’s main experimental effort now is to understand why we haven't been able to predict opacities on Sandia National Laboratory's Z-machine. We are modeling an increasing fraction of the Z-machine's dynamic hohlraum to find multi-physics explanations for the experimental results. Further, we are building an entirely different opacitymore » platform on Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's National Ignition Facility (NIF), which is set to get results early 2017. Will the results match our predictions, match the Z-machine, or give us something entirely different? The new platform brings new challenges such as designing hohlraums and spectrometers. The speaker will recount his history, starting with one-dimensional Monte Carlo nuclear criticality methods in graduate school, radiative transfer methods research and software development for his first 16 years at LANL, and, now, radflow technology and experiments. Who knew that the real world was more than just radiation transport? Experiments aren't easy, but they sure are fun.« less

Characterizing the Experimental Procedure in Science Laboratories: A preliminary step towards students experimental design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Girault, Isabelle; d'Ham, Cedric; Ney, Muriel; Sanchez, Eric; Wajeman, Claire

2012-04-01

Many studies have stressed students' lack of understanding of experiments in laboratories. Some researchers suggest that if students design all or parts of entire experiment, as part of an inquiry-based approach, it would overcome certain difficulties. It requires that a procedure be written for experimental design. The aim of this paper is to describe the characteristics of a procedure in science laboratories, in an educational context. As a starting point, this paper proposes a model in the form of a hierarchical task diagram that gives the general structure of any procedure. This model allows both the analysis of existing procedures and the design of a new inquiry-based approach. The obtained characteristics are further organized into criteria that can help both teachers and students assess a procedure during and after its writing. These results are obtained through two different sets of data. First, the characteristics of procedures are established by analysing laboratory manuals. This allows the organization and type of information in procedures to be defined. This analysis reveals that students are seldom asked to write a full procedure, but sometimes have to specify tasks within a procedure. Secondly, iterative interviews are undertaken with teachers. This leads to the list of criteria to evaluate the procedure.

Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of an Enantiomerically Pure Lactone: A Three-Step Synthesis for Undergraduate Organic Chemistry Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McClure, Cynthia K.; Chenault, H. Keith

1996-05-01

A three-step laboratory sequence for the undergraduate organic laboratory is described. This series of experiments requires a student to use the product from one reaction as the starting material for a subsequent reaction, and thus the affords the student a "real world" experience of multistep synthesis. Thermal extrusion of sulfur dioxide from sulfolene is used to generate 1,3-butadiene in situ for a Diels-Alder cyclization with maleic anhydride. The anhydride is then reduced to the diol with lithium aluminum hydride. Oxidation of the diol to the chiral lactone is catalyzed by horse-liver alcohol dehydrogenase. This enzymatic oxidation illustrates in situ cofactor regeneration and allows students to measure simple enzyme kinetics.

The ANDES Deep Underground Laboratory in South America: status and prospects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bertou, Xavier

2017-01-01

The construction of the Agua Negra tunnel through the Andes between Argentina and Chile is a unique opportunity to build a world class deep underground laboratory in the southern hemisphere, with 1750 m of rock overburden. At 30 degrees latitude south, far from nuclear power plants, it provides a unique site for Dark Matter searches and Neutrino experiments, and can host multidisciplinary experiments with a specific focus on Earth sciences given its location in a peculiar geoactive region. Its operation is foreseen to be coordinated by an international consortium and to start in 2026. In this presentation the current status of the Agua Negra tunnel and the ANDES initiative will be reviewed, and the scientific programme of the planned laboratory will be discussed.

Patti Labbe | Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Looking back, Patti Labbe realizes that she’s always felt at home working in quality control. She got her start in the field soon after graduating college, and it’s been a part of her life ever since. “QC work was a great fit for me,” she sa

DEVELOPMENT OF REAL-TIME SITE-SPECIFIC MICROSCALE EMISSION FACTOR MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN EXPOSURE TO MOTOR VEHICLE EMISSIONS

EPA Science Inventory

The United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Expsoure Research Laboratory (NERL) has initiated a project to improve the methodology for modeling urban-scale human exposure to mobile source emissions. The modeling project has started by considering the nee...

Teaching Smartphone and Microcontroller Systems Using "Android Java"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tigrek, Seyitriza

2012-01-01

Mobile devices are becoming indispensable tools for many students and educators. Mobile technology is starting a new era in the computing methodologies in many engineering disciplines and laboratories. Microcontroller extension that communicates with mobile devices will take the data acquisition and control process into a new level in the sensing…

History of vaccination.

PubMed

Plotkin, Stanley

2014-08-26

Vaccines have a history that started late in the 18th century. From the late 19th century, vaccines could be developed in the laboratory. However, in the 20th century, it became possible to develop vaccines based on immunologic markers. In the 21st century, molecular biology permits vaccine development that was not possible before.

Research Methodology: A Practitioner Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Singh, Sukhpal; Chana, Inderveer; Singh, Maninder

2015-01-01

The ultimate goal of scientific research is publication so as to showcase the research outcomes. Scientists, starting as graduate students, are measured primarily not by their dexterity in laboratory manipulations, not by their innate knowledge of either broad or narrow scientific subjects, and certainly not by their wit or charm; they are…

STS-122 crew member Stan Love suiting up

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-06

JSC2007-E-27733 (6 June 2007) --- Astronaut Stanley G. Love, STS-122 mission specialist, attired in a training version of the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuit, awaits the start of a training session in the waters of the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center.

Teaching Representation Translations with Magnetic Field Experiments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tillotson, Wilson Andrew; McCaskey, Timothy; Nasser, Luis

2017-01-01

We have developed a laboratory exercise designed to help students translate between different field representations. It starts with students qualitatively mapping field lines for various bar magnet configurations and continues with a Hall probe experiment in which students execute a series of scaffolded tasks, culminating in the prediction and…

A Portable Computer Security Workshop

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagner, Paul J.; Phillips, Andrew T.

2006-01-01

We have developed a computer security workshop designed to instruct post-secondary instructors who want to start a course or laboratory exercise sequence in computer security. This workshop has also been used to provide computer security education to IT professionals and students. It is effective in communicating basic computer security principles…

The Slothfulness Quotient.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Joyce, Peter J.

2001-01-01

E-Learning eliminates time and distance barriers, creating universal learning-on-demand opportunities. Cisco Systems has invested over $50 million in the world's largest e-learning laboratory. Starting with 64 academies in 7 U.S. states in 1997, the Networking Academy program now serves 140,000 students in over 5,800 sites in 96 countries. (MLH)

Laboratory Experiments for Network Security Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brustoloni, Jose Carlos

2006-01-01

We describe a sequence of five experiments on network security that cast students successively in the roles of computer user, programmer, and system administrator. Unlike experiments described in several previous papers, these experiments avoid placing students in the role of attacker. Each experiment starts with an in-class demonstration of an…

A Behavioral Analysis of the Laboratory Learning Process: Redesigning a Teaching Unit on Recrystallization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mulder, T.; Verdonk, A. H.

1984-01-01

Reports on a project in which observations of student and teaching assistant behavior were used to redesign a teaching unit on recrystallization. Comments on the instruction manual, starting points for teaching the unit, and list of objectives with related tasks are included. (JN)

The pediatric hematology/oncology educational laboratory in-training examination (PHOELIX): A formative evaluation of laboratory skills for Canadian pediatric hematology/oncology trainees.

PubMed

Leung, Elaine; Dix, David; Ford, Jason; Barnard, Dorothy; McBride, Eileen

2015-11-01

Pediatric hematologists/oncologists need to be skilled clinicians, and must also be adept and knowledgeable in relevant areas of laboratory medicine. Canadian training programs in this subspecialty have a minimum requirement for 6 months of training in acquiring "relevant laboratory diagnostic skills." The Canadian pediatric hematology/oncology (PHO) national specialty society, C17, recognized the need for an assessment method in laboratory skills for fellows graduating from PHO training programs. Canadian pediatric hematologists/oncologists were surveyed regarding what were felt to be the essential laboratory-related knowledge and skills deemed necessary for graduating pediatric hematology/oncology trainees. The PHOELIX (Pediatric hematology/oncology educational laboratory in-training examination) was then developed to provide an annual formative evaluation of laboratory skills in Canadian PHO trainees. The majority of PHO respondents (89%) felt that laboratory skills are important in clinical practice. An annual formative examination including review of glass slides was implemented starting in 2010; this provides feedback regarding knowledge of laboratory medicine to both trainees and program directors (PDs). We have successfully created a formative examination that can be used to evaluate and educate trainees, as well as provide PDs with a tool to gauge the effectiveness of their laboratory training curriculum. Feedback has been positive from both trainees and PDs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reframing beliefs about work and change processes in redesigning laboratory services.

PubMed

Kelly, D L

1998-03-01

In 1996 a team started meeting to redesign care at Intermountain Health Care's (Salt Lake City) laboratory services on a fast track to dovetail with remodeling of the physical layout. The team reframed its current beliefs about using team processes--including use of a consultant/facilitator, team size, and decision making (by criteria instead of consensus). Although the lab was strong in technical measurements, the sole management measurement before redesign was financial data generated by the accounting department. A comprehensive measurement system, which was required for the lab to evaluate the impact of the redesign efforts and manage its operations over time, constituted the team's first steps toward implementing the redesign effort. PROCESS REDESIGN: Once the team understood the purpose, customer expectations, desired outcomes of the specimen flow process, and the reasons for current breakdowns, it was able to design an ideal high-level process (with a floor plan to support it). Multiple subprocesses were redesigned and implemented on the basis of reframed beliefs--for example, that the process starts and ends with the customer (clinician or patient) and that there is one standardized entry point into the lab to reduce variability in processing and assign priority for analysis of specimens. For example, the team identified opportunities for improvements in the manner in which laboratory test results were communicated to physicians' offices. The belief that appeared to have the most profound impact on the redesign effort was the clarification of the fundamental purpose of laboratory services and how it shapes every aspect of the business.

Biomarkers to monitor safety in people on art and risk of mortality.

PubMed

Bansi, Loveleen; Gazzard, Brian; Post, Frank; Phillips, Andrew; Johnson, Margaret; Hill, Teresa; Gilson, Richard; Leen, Clifford; Walsh, John; Fisher, Martin; Sabin, Caroline

2012-05-01

Though patients with HIV now have near normal life expectancies as a result of antiretroviral treatment, long-term adverse effects are of growing concern. Using time-updated laboratory measurements, we use several methods to derive a score that can be used to identify individuals at high risk of mortality. Patients who started highly active antiretroviral therapy after 2000 and had ≥1 CD4 count, viral load, and laboratory marker recorded after the date of starting highly active antiretroviral therapy were included in the analyses. Laboratory markers were stratified into quintiles and associations between each marker and mortality was assessed using Poisson regression. The estimates of the final model were used to construct a score for predicting short-term mortality. Several methods, including multiple imputation, were used for analyzing records with missing measurements. Of the 7232 patients included in this analysis, 247 died over 24,796 person-years of follow-up, giving an overall mortality rate of 1.00 (95% confidence interval: 0.87 to 1.12) per 100 person-years. Regardless of which method was used to deal with missing data, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, and hemoglobin were independently associated with mortality. Alanine transaminase was independently associated with mortality when patients with missing measurements were assumed to have measurements within the normal range. The C-statistics for all models ranged from 0.76 to 0.78. Measures of alanine transaminase, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, and hemoglobin in the normal range were predictive of mortality, and hence we suggest using a scoring system to predict mortality which relies on the raw values of these 4 laboratory markers.

Exploring New Ways to Deliver Value to Healthcare Organizations: Algorithmic Testing, Data Integration, and Diagnostic E-consult Service.

PubMed

Risin, Semyon A; Chang, Brian N; Welsh, Kerry J; Kidd, Laura R; Moreno, Vanessa; Chen, Lei; Tholpady, Ashok; Wahed, Amer; Nguyen, Nghia; Kott, Marylee; Hunter, Robert L

2015-01-01

As the USA Health Care System undergoes transformation and transitions to value-based models it is critical for laboratory medicine/clinical pathology physicians to explore opportunities and find new ways to deliver value, become an integral part of the healthcare team. This is also essential for ensuring financial health and stability of the profession when the payment paradigm changes from fee-for-service to fee-for-performance. About 5 years ago we started searching for ways to achieve this goal. Among other approaches, the search included addressing the laboratory work-ups for specialists' referrals in the HarrisHealth System, a major safety net health care organization serving mostly indigent and underserved population of Harris County, TX. We present here our experience in improving the efficiency of laboratory testing for the referral process and in building a prototype of a diagnostic e-consult service using rheumatologic diseases as a starting point. The service incorporates algorithmic testing, integration of clinical, laboratory and imaging data, issuing structured comprehensive consultation reports, incorporating all the relevant information, and maintaining personal contacts and an e-line of communications with the primary providers and referral center personnel. Ongoing survey of providers affords testimony of service value in terms of facilitating their work and increasing productivity. Analysis of the cost effectiveness and of other value indicators is currently underway. We also discuss our pioneering experience in building pathology residents and fellows training in integrated diagnostic consulting service. © 2015 by the Association of Clinical Scientists, Inc.

Laboratory Astrophysics White Paper: Summary of Laboratory Astrophysics Needs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

The NASA Laboratory Astrophysics Workshop (NASA LAW) met at NASA Ames Research Center from 1-3 May 2002 to assess the role that laboratory astrophysics plays in the optimization of NASA missions, both at the science conception level and at the science return level. Space missions provide understanding of fundamental questions regarding the origin and evolution of galaxies, stars, and planetary systems. In all of these areas the interpretation of results from NASA's space missions relies crucially upon data obtained from the laboratory. We stress that Laboratory Astrophysics is important not only in the interpretation of data, but also in the design and planning of future missions. We recognize a symbiosis between missions to explore the universe and the underlying basic data needed to interpret the data from those missions. In the following we provide a summary of the consensus results from our Workshop, starting with general programmatic findings and followed by a list of more specific scientific areas that need attention. We stress that this is a 'living document' and that these lists are subject to change as new missions or new areas of research rise to the fore.

LDRD 2016 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Hatton, D.

Each year, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is required to provide a program description and overview of its Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program (LDRD) to the Department of Energy (DOE) in accordance with DOE Order 413.2C dated October 22, 2015. This report provides a detailed look at the scientific and technical activities for each of the LDRD projects funded by BNL in FY 2016, as required. In FY 2016, the BNL LDRD Program funded 48 projects, 21 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $11.5M. The investments that BNL makes in its LDRD program support the Laboratory’smore » strategic goals. BNL has identified four Critical Outcomes that define the Laboratory’s scientific future and that will enable it to realize its overall vision. Two operational Critical Outcomes address essential operational support for that future: renewal of the BNL campus; and safe, efficient laboratory operations.« less

Neutronics Analyses of the Minimum Original HEU TREAT Core

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

Kontogeorgakos, D.; Connaway, H.; Yesilyurt, G.

2014-04-01

This work was performed to support the feasibility study on the potential conversion of the Transient Reactor Test Facility (TREAT) at Idaho National Laboratory from the use of high-enriched uranium (HEU) fuel to the use of low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel. The analyses were performed by the GTRI Reactor Conversion staff at the Argonne National Laboratory (ANL). The objective of this study was to validate the MCNP model of the TREAT reactor with the well-documented measurements which were taken during the start-up and early operation of TREAT. Furthermore, the effect of carbon graphitization was also addressed. The graphitization level was assumedmore » to be 100% (ANL/GTRI/TM-13/4). For this purpose, a set of experiments was chosen to validate the TREAT MCNP model, involving the approach to criticality procedure, in-core neutron flux measurements with foils, and isothermal temperature coefficient and temperature distribution measurements. The results of this study extended the knowledge base for the TREAT MCNP calculations and established the credibility of the MCNP model to be used in the core conversion feasibility analysis.« less

[Best time to administer coagulation factor XIII( Fibrogammin P) for postoperative intractable pancreatic fistula following gastrectomy for gastric cancer].

PubMed

Shoda, Katsutoshi; Komatsu, Shuhei; Ichikawa, Daisuke; Kubota, Takeshi; Okamoto, Kazuma; Arita, Tomohiro; Konishi, Hirotaka; Murayama, Yasutoshi; Shiozaki, Atsushi; Kuriu, Yoshiaki; Ikoma, Hisashi; Nakanishi, Masayoshi; Fujiwara, Hitoshi; Otsuji, Eigo

2013-11-01

Coagulation factor XIII( Fibrogammin P, F XIII) has been used to treat postoperative pancreatic fistulas following gastrectomy for gastric cancer in Japan. However, little is known about the best timing to start this treatment for early recovery. This study was designed to examine the appropriate time to start Fibrogammin P treatment for pancreatic fistulas, based on nutritional and inflammatory parameters. We retrospectively examined 27 consecutive patients with Grade B or C pancreatic fistulas as defined by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula( ISGPF) classification who underwent gastrectomy at our institute between 1997 and 2011. We analyzed data on total protein( TP), albumin (Alb), C-reactive protein( CRP), and hemoglobin( Hb) concentrations and white blood cell( WBC) and lymphocyte counts. We used this information to determine laboratory cut-off values that indicate the most advantageous time to start the administration of Fibrogammin P in order to achieve early recovery within 2 weeks. When Fibrogammin P administration was based on more than 2 cut-off values such as Alb>2.6 g/dL and Hb>9.0 g/dL and WBC<9,000/μL (p= 0.1563), early cure of pancreatic fistulas was achieved. The use of nutritional and inflammatory parameter values to determine the best time to administer Fibrogammin P may shorten the treatment period.

Virological study of a dengue type 1 epidemic at Rio de Janeiro.

PubMed

Nogueira, R M; Schatzmayr, H G; Miagostovich, M P; Farias, M F; Farias Filho, J D

1988-01-01

A dengue outbreak started in March, 1986 in Rio de Janeiro and spread very rapidly to other parts of the country. The great majority of cases presented classical dengue fever but there was one fatal case, confirmed by virus isolation. Dengue type 1 strains were isolated from patients and vectors (Aedes aegypti) in the area by cultivation in A. albopictus C6/36 cell line. The cytopathic effect (CPE) was studied by electron microscopy. An IgM capture test (MAC-ELISA) was applied with clear and reproducible results for diagnosis and evaluation of virus circulation; IgM antibodies appeared soon after start of clinical disease, and persisted for about 90 days in most patients. The test was type-specific in about 50% of the patients but high levels of heterologous response for type 3 were observed. An overall isolation rate of 46.8% (813 virus strains out of 1734 specimens) was recorded. The IgM test increased the number of confirmed cases to 58.2% (1479 out of 2451 suspected cases). The importance of laboratory diagnosis in all regions where the vectors are present is emphasized.

Adaptation of the Conditions of US EPA Method 538 for the ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Report The objective of this study was to evaluate U.S. EPA’s Method 538 for the assessment of drinking water exposure to the nerve agent degradation product, EA2192, the most toxic degradation product of nerve agent VX. As a result of the similarities in sample preparation and analysis that Method 538 uses for nonvolatile chemicals, this method is applicable to the nonvolatile Chemical Warfare Agent (CWA) degradation product, EA2192, in drinking water. The method may be applicable to other nonvolatile CWAs and their respective degradation products as well, but the method will need extensive testing to verify compatibility. Gaps associated with the need for analysis methods capable of analyzing such analytes were addressed by adapting the EPA 538 method for this CWA degradation product. Many laboratories have the experience and capability to run the already rigorous method for nonvolatile compounds in drinking water. Increasing the number of laboratories capable of carrying out these methods serves to significantly increase the surge laboratory capacity to address sample throughput during a large exposure event. The approach desired for this study was to start with a proven high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS) method for nonvolatile chemicals in drinking water and assess the inclusion of a similar nonvolatile chemical, EA2192.

How Big Science Came to Long Island: The Birth of Brookhaven Laboratory (429th Brookhaven Lecture)

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

Crease, Robert P.

Robert P. Crease, historian for the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Stony Brook University, will give two talks on the Laboratory's history on October 31 and December 12. Crease's October 31 talk, titled "How Big Science Came to Long Island: The Birth of Brookhaven Lab," will cover the founding of the Laboratory soon after World War II as a peacetime facility to construct and maintain basic research facilities, such as nuclear reactors and particle accelerators, that were too large for single institutions to build and operate. He will discuss the keymore » figures involved in starting the Laboratory, including Nobel laureates I.I. Rabi and Norman Ramsey, as well as Donald Dexter Van Slyke, one of the most renowned medical researchers in American history. Crease also will focus on the many problems that had to be overcome in creating the Laboratory and designing its first big machines, as well as the evolving relations of the Laboratory with the surrounding Long Island community and news media. Throughout his talk, Crease will tell fascinating stories about Brookhaven's scientists and their research.« less

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

W. Wester

Fermilab is executing Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) as outlined by order DOE O 413.2B in order to enhance and realize the mission of the laboratory in a manner that also supports the laboratory’s strategic objectives and the mission of the Department of Energy. LDRD funds enable scientific creativity, allow for exploration of “high risk, high payoff” research, and allow for the demonstration of new ideas, technical concepts, and devices. LDRD also has an objective of maintaining and enhancing the scientific and technical vitality of Fermilab. LDRD is able to fund employee-initiated proposals that address the current strategic objectivesmore » and better position Fermilab for future mission needs. The request for such funds is made in consideration of the investment needs, affordability, and directives from DOE and Congress. Review procedures of the proposals will insure that those proposals which most address the strategic goals of the DOE and the Laboratory or which best position Fermilab for the future will be recommended to the Laboratory Director who has responsibility for approval. The execution of each approved project will be the responsibility of the Principal Investigator, PI, who will follow existing Laboratory guidelines to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality assurance practices. A Laboratory Director-appointed LDRD Coordinator will work with Committees, Laboratory Management, other Fermilab Staff, and the PI’s to oversee the implementation of policies and procedures of LDRD and provide the management and execution of this Annual Program Plan. FY16 represents third fiscal year in which LDRD has existed at Fermilab. The number of preliminary proposals (117) submitted in response to the LDRD Call for Proposals indicates very strong interest of the program within the Fermilab community. The first two Calls have resulted in thirteen active LDRD projects – and it is expected that between five and seven new projects will be approved in response to the FY16 Call for Proposals. The implementation of the program compared with FY15 is mostly unchanged except that the program is on the expected normal fiscal year calendar cycle with new projects starting at the beginning of the fiscal year. Because of this, there is some expanded discussion that the Laboratory Director may decide to initiate mid-year Late Start or Strategic- Hire LDRD projects.« less

Reliability, robustness, and reproducibility in mouse behavioral phenotyping: a cross-laboratory study

PubMed Central

Mandillo, Silvia; Tucci, Valter; Hölter, Sabine M.; Meziane, Hamid; Banchaabouchi, Mumna Al; Kallnik, Magdalena; Lad, Heena V.; Nolan, Patrick M.; Ouagazzal, Abdel-Mouttalib; Coghill, Emma L.; Gale, Karin; Golini, Elisabetta; Jacquot, Sylvie; Krezel, Wojtek; Parker, Andy; Riet, Fabrice; Schneider, Ilka; Marazziti, Daniela; Auwerx, Johan; Brown, Steve D. M.; Chambon, Pierre; Rosenthal, Nadia; Tocchini-Valentini, Glauco; Wurst, Wolfgang

2008-01-01

Establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs) as tools for the analysis of behavioral phenotypes is fundamental to mouse functional genomics. It is essential that the tests designed provide reliable measures of the process under investigation but most importantly that these are reproducible across both time and laboratories. For this reason, we devised and tested a set of SOPs to investigate mouse behavior. Five research centers were involved across France, Germany, Italy, and the UK in this study, as part of the EUMORPHIA program. All the procedures underwent a cross-validation experimental study to investigate the robustness of the designed protocols. Four inbred reference strains (C57BL/6J, C3HeB/FeJ, BALB/cByJ, 129S2/SvPas), reflecting their use as common background strains in mutagenesis programs, were analyzed to validate these tests. We demonstrate that the operating procedures employed, which includes open field, SHIRPA, grip-strength, rotarod, Y-maze, prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle response, and tail flick tests, generated reproducible results between laboratories for a number of the test output parameters. However, we also identified several uncontrolled variables that constitute confounding factors in behavioral phenotyping. The EUMORPHIA SOPs described here are an important start-point for the ongoing development of increasingly robust phenotyping platforms and their application in large-scale, multicentre mouse phenotyping programs. PMID:18505770

Constraints in the diagnosis and treatment of Lassa Fever and the effect on mortality in hospitalized children and women with obstetric conditions in a rural district hospital in Sierra Leone

PubMed Central

Dahmane, A.; van Griensven, J.; Van Herp, M.; Van den Bergh, R.; Nzomukunda, Y.; Prior, J.; Alders, P.; Jambai, A.; Zachariah, R.

2014-01-01

Background Lassa fever (LF) is an acute viral haemorrhagic infection, endemic in West Africa. Confirmatory diagnosis and treatment (ribavirin) is difficult, expensive, and restricted to specialised hospitals. Among confirmed and suspected LF cases, we report on clinical and laboratory features, timing and administration of ribavirin and the relationship with case fatality. Methods We conducted an audit of patient files of suspected LF cases admitted to a pediatric and obstetric referral hospital in rural Sierra Leone (April 2011 to February 2012). Results There were 84 suspected LF cases; 36 (43%) were laboratory-confirmed cases, of whom only 20 (56%) received ribavirin after a median duration of eight days (IQR 314 days) of hospital admission. Of 16 patients who did not receive ribavirin, 14 (87%) died before ribavirin treatment could be commenced. Starting ribavirin within six days of admission was associated with a case fatality of 29% (2/7), while starting ribavirin later than six days was associated with a case fatality of 50% (6/12). Among the 48 suspected LF cases without laboratory confirmation, there were 21 (44%) deaths. Conclusions These findings highlight shortcomings in LF management, including diagnostic and treatment delays. More research and development efforts should be devoted to this ‘neglected disease’. PMID:24535150

Advanced educational program in optoelectronics for undergraduates and graduates in electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vladescu, Marian; Schiopu, Paul

2015-02-01

The optoelectronics education included in electronics curricula at Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Information Technology of "Politehnica" University of Bucharest started in early '90s, and evolved constantly since then, trying to address the growing demand of engineers with a complex optoelectronics profile and to meet the increased requirements of microelectronics, optoelectronics, and lately nanotechnologies. Our goal is to provide a high level of theoretical background combined with advanced experimental tools in laboratories, and also with simulation platforms. That's why we propose an advanced educational program in optoelectronics for both grades of our study program, bachelor and master.

Innovations in Delta Differential One-Way Range: from Viking to Mars Science Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Border, James S.

2009-01-01

The Deep Space Network has provided the capability for very-long-baseline interferometry measurements in support of spacecraft navigation since the late 1970s. Both system implementation and the importance of such measurements to flight projects have evolved significantly over the past three decades. Innovations introduced through research and development programs have led to much better performance. This paper provides an overview of the development and use of interferometric tracking techniques in the DSN starting with the Viking era and continuing with a description of the current system and its planned use to support Mars Science Laboratory.

Former Intern: Amy Stull Returns to Her Roots | Poster

Cancer.gov

By Carolynne Keenan, Contributing Writer When Amy Stull, a 2000 graduate of Walkersville High School, began working in a laboratory at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) at Frederick, she likely did not know the role NCI would play in her career. Stull started at NCI as a Werner H. Kirsten (WHK) student intern after her junior year of high school, working in a lab as she prepared for a career in chemical engineering. The student intern program pairs rising high school seniors with laboratory scientists to encourage the students to pursue careers in both science and health care fields.

Annual Report on the Activities and Publications of the DHS-DNDO-NTNFC Sponsored Post-doctoral Fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory

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

Rim, Jung Ho; Tandon, Lav

This report is a summary of the projects Jung Rim is working on as a DHS postdoctoral fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory. These research projects are designed to explore different radioanalytical methods to support nuclear forensics applications. The current projects discussed here include development of alpha spectroscopy method for 240/239Pu Isotopic ratio measurement, non-destructive uranium assay method using gamma spectroscopy, and 236U non-destructive uranium analysis using FRAM code. This report documents the work that has been performed since the start of the postdoctoral appointment.

Next generation platforms for high-throughput biodosimetry

PubMed Central

Repin, Mikhail; Turner, Helen C.; Garty, Guy; Brenner, David J.

2014-01-01

Here the general concept of the combined use of plates and tubes in racks compatible with the American National Standards Institute/the Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening microplate formats as the next generation platforms for increasing the throughput of biodosimetry assays was described. These platforms can be used at different stages of biodosimetry assays starting from blood collection into microtubes organised in standardised racks and ending with the cytogenetic analysis of samples in standardised multiwell and multichannel plates. Robotically friendly platforms can be used for different biodosimetry assays in minimally equipped laboratories and on cost-effective automated universal biotech systems. PMID:24837249

Biological aspects and mating behavior of Leucothyreus albopilosus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae).

PubMed

Ferreira, Kleyton Rezende; Gomes, Elias Soares; Rodrigues, Sérgio Roberto

2016-06-01

The genus Leucothyreus has been linked to some commercial plant crop pests. Eventhough several species have been described for this genus, information about this group is still scarce. This study investigated some biological aspects and mating behavior in Leucothyreus albopilosus. Studies were conducted at the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul, in the municipalities of Aquidauana and Cassilândia, MS, Brazil. For biological studies, adults were collected with light traps from February 2011 to February 2012, and for behavior analyses from September to December 2014. Biological studies were undertaken every three days and included the eggs inspection, and the separation of the newly hatched larvae to observe and describe their developmental stages; to monitor larval growth and differentiate larval instars, we measured the larvae cephalic capsule. Life cycle was determined starting from the newly laid eggs until adult death. For mating behavior studies, adults obtained with light traps were taken to the laboratory. As soon as they started flying in the evening, couples were formed and copulation steps were recorded. In the field, we observed that adults were mostly collected during warmer and wetter periods (from August to March). Our results showed that the embryonic period of L. albopilosus lasted 20.5 days, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd instars lasted 31.0, 33.1 and 85.6 days, respectively. The pupal stage lasted 20 days, and the egg to adult period was completed in 185.5 days; these results suggest that L. albopilosus can be characterized as a univoltine species. Observations of mating behavior in the laboratory showed that, after the sunset, adults projected a small portion of clypeus near the soil surface and flew off seeking a female to mate. The female could accept or reject the male for mating. When the female accepted the male, copulation occurred from 19:00 to 23:00 hours, and lasted 19.45 minutes on average. Sometimes females refused to mate, probably because the male or female were not sexually mature to perform copulation, and there might be a chemical communication between the adults. Adults were observed feeding on ripe bananas (Musa sp., Musaceae) and on mangaba flowers (Hancornia speciosa, Apocynaceae) in the laboratory. With this work we contributed with the description of mating behavior in the genus Leucothyreus and concluded that the biological cycle was completed in less than 200 days.

Mentoring undergraduate students in neuroscience research: a model system at baldwin-wallace college.

PubMed

Mickley, G Andrew; Kenmuir, Cynthia; Remmers-Roeber, Dawn

2003-01-01

As neuroscience research and discovery undergoes phenomenal growth worldwide, undergraduate students are seeking complete laboratory experiences that go beyond the classic classroom curriculum and provide mentoring in all aspects of science. Stock, in-class, laboratory experiences with known outcomes are less desirable than discovery-based projects in which students become full partners with faculty in the design, conduct and documentation of experiments that find their way into the peer-reviewed literature. The challenges of providing such experiences in the context of a primarily undergraduate institution (PUI) can be daunting. Faculty teaching loads are high, and student time is spread over a variety of courses and co-curricular activities. In this context, undergraduates are often reluctant, or ill equipped, to take individual initiative to generate and perform empirical studies. They are more likely to become involved in a sustained, faculty-initiated research program. This paper describes such a program at Baldwin-Wallace College. Students frequently start their laboratory activities in the freshman or sophomore year and enter into a system of faculty and peer mentoring that leads them to experience all aspects of the research enterprise. Students begin with learning basic laboratory tasks and may eventually achieve the status of "Senior Laboratory Associate" (SLA). SLAs become involved in laboratory management, training of less-experienced students, manuscript preparation, and grant proposal writing. The system described here provides a structured, but encouraging, community in which talented undergraduates can develop and mature as they are mentored in the context of a modern neuroscience laboratory. Retention is very good - as most students continue their work in the laboratory for 2-3 years. Student self-reports regarding their growth and satisfaction with the experiences in the laboratory have been excellent and our neuroscience students' acceptance rate in graduate, medical and veterinary schools has been well above the College average. The system also fosters faculty productivity and satisfaction in the context of the typical challenges of conducting research at a PUI.

The light of SESAME: A dream becomes reality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schopper, H.

2017-04-01

The foundation of the international SESAME synchrotron laboratory in Jordan is described including political, technical, scientific and financial aspects. Following the model of CERN, its objective is not only to promote science but also bring people together from countries with different traditions, religions and mentalities. To create an international organisation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region required sometimes quite unconventional procedures not disclosed in any official document. Because of the exceptional circumstances, a more detailed description of its history may be of interest. Although its success was doubted by many at its start, the facility will start operation in spring 2017.

Software Carpentry: lessons learned

PubMed Central

Wilson, Greg

2016-01-01

Since its start in 1998, Software Carpentry has evolved from a week-long training course at the US national laboratories into a worldwide volunteer effort to improve researchers' computing skills. This paper explains what we have learned along the way, the challenges we now face, and our plans for the future. PMID:24715981

The Physics of "Copenhagen" for Students and the General Public.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bergstrom, L.; Johansson, K. E.; Nilsson, Ch.

2001-01-01

The play Copenhagen has attracted the attention of a large audience in several countries. The hypothetical discussion between two of the giants in physics, Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg, has inspired us to start a theoretical and experimental exploration of quantum physics. This theme has been used in Stockholm Science Laboratory for audiences…

Three-Year High School Science Core Curriculum: A Framework.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bardeen, Marjorie; Freeman, Wade; Lederman, Leon; Marshall, Stephanie; Thompson, Bruce; Young, M. Jean

It is time to start a complete re-structuring of the high school science sequence: new content, new instructional materials, new laboratories, new assessment tools, and new teacher preparation. This white paper initiates re-structuring by proposing organization, pedagogy, and content for a new sequence of science courses. The proposal respects the…

Making a Chemical Rainbow

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angelin, Marcus; Ramstrom, Olof

2010-01-01

In this laboratory experiment, high school students are challenged to prepare a six-layered chemical "rainbow" in a test tube. Students start with six unknown, colorless liquids and six pigments ranging from violet to red. The experiment is problem based and forces the students to apply their knowledge of solubility and density and combine it with…

Modeling Chemistry for Effective Chemical Education: An Interview with Ronald J. Gillespie

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cardellini, Liberato

2010-01-01

Ronald J. Gillespie, the inventor of the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) model, relates how his career as researcher in Christopher Ingold's laboratories started. Gillespie developed a passion for chemistry and chemical education, searching for more appropriate and interesting ways to transmit the essential knowledge and enthusiasm…

Educational Modules in Tissue Engineering Based on the "How People Learn" Framework

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birol, Gulnur; Liu, Shu Q.; Smith, H. David; Hirsch, Penny

2006-01-01

This paper describes an educational package for use in tertiary level tissue engineering education. Current learning science principles and theory were employed in the design process of these educational tools. Each module started with a challenge statement designed to motivate students and consisted of laboratory exercises centered on the "How…

Copper Metal from Malachite Circa 4000 B.C.E.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yee, Gordon T.; Eddleton, Jeannine E.; Johnson, Cris E.

2004-01-01

The feasibility of the laboratory production of copper metal from a readily available, naturally occurring mineral malachite utilizing techniques that are consistent with the time period of around 4000 B.C.E. is presented. The starting materials are inexpensive and convenient and the procedure involves no hazardous reagents and produces no…

Entrepreneur Grows Microswitch Company

ScienceCinema

Czaja, Danny; Christenson, Todd

2018-05-30

Todd Christenson took advantage of Sandia National Laboratories’ Entrepreneurial Separation to Transfer Technology (ESTT) program to start HT MicroAnalytical (HT Micro) in 2003 in order to apply his specialized expertise in high aspect ratio microfabrication (HARM) technology gained while at Sandia to the creation of the world’s smallest electromechanical switches.

LDRD 2017 Annual Report: Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program Activities

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

Anderson, Jack; Flynn, Liz

This report provides a detailed look at the scientific and technical activities for each of the LDRD projects funded by BNL in FY 2017, as required. In FY 2017, the BNL LDRD Program funded 46 projects, 13 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $10.4M.

Seeding and Planting Southern Hardwoods

Treesearch

Franklin T. Bonner

1965-01-01

I would like to start by giving a complete prescription for planting any hardwood species by a cheap and simple method that will insure excellent survival and good growth. Unfortunately, this is impossible, for we at the Southern Hardwoods Laboratory are still several years away from such prescriptions with nearly all of our important hardwoods. With most species,...

Mirrors in the Air: Mirages in Nature and in the Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vollmer, M.

2009-01-01

Although mostly not perceived consciously, mirages are very familiar phenomena of everyday life. They can generally occur if light is incident on media with a gradient of refractive index. This article starts with the easiest mirage effect, known as astronomical refraction, then presents examples for inferior and superior multiple image mirages,…

Laboratories for Educational Innovation: Honors Programs in the Netherlands

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wolfensberger, Marca V. C.; Van Eijl, Pierre; Pilot, Albert

2012-01-01

In Dutch universities, honors programs are a fast growing development. The first such programs started in 1993. Twenty years later a large number of programs are implemented at nearly all research universities and also at many universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. Recent data have revealed significant diversity in the types and…

Convergence of quasiparticle self-consistent GW calculations of transition metal monoxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Suvadip; Coulter, John E.; Manousakis, Efstratios

2015-03-01

We have investigated the electronic structure of the transition metal monoxides MnO, CoO, and NiO in their undistorted rock-salt structure within a fully iterated quasiparticle self-consistent GW (QPscGW) scheme. We have studied the convergence of the QPscGW method, i.e., how the quasiparticle energy eigenvalues and wavefunctions converge as a function of the QPscGW iterations, and compared the converged outputs obtained from different starting wavefunctions. We found that the convergence is slow and that a one-shot G0W0 calculation does not significantly improve the initial eigenvalues and states. In some cases the ``path'' to convergence may go through energy band reordering which cannot be captured by the simple initial unperturbed Hamiltonian. When a fully iterated solution is reached, the converged density of states, band-gaps and magnetic moments of these oxides are found to be only weakly dependent on the choice of the starting wavefunctions and in reasonable agreement with the experiment. National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Atypical desquamation in a 2.5-year-old boy with Kawasaki disease: A case report.

PubMed

Adib, Ali; Fazel, Ali; Nabavizadeh, Seyed Hesamedin; Alyasin, Sohaila; Kashef, Sara

2017-02-01

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a vasculitis that mostly affects children under 5 years of age. This article presents a 2.5-year-old boy who presented with 6 days of fever, generalized maculopapular rash, bilateral non-exudative conjunctivitis, cracked lips, right cervical lymphadenopathy, erythematous extremities, and perianal desquamation. Laboratory studies showed leukocytosis and sterile pyuria. Because diagnosis of KD was proved, oral acetylsalicylic acid with the anti-inflammatory dose and intravenous immunoglobulin were started for him. On the seventh day of admission time, he developed desquamation and erythema on the site of his right cervical lymphadenopathy as well as periungual scaling. About three weeks after starting the treatment, scaling of the cervical lymphadenopathy and periungual area stopped. Echocardiography was performed for him three times: at the time of diagnosis, four weeks, and 6 months later and revealed normal coronary arteries. We report this sign, desquamation on the site of cervical lymphadenopathy, as a new finding.

The PIAA Coronagraph Prototype: First Laboratory Results.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pluzhnik, Eugene; Guyon, O.; Colley, S.; Gallet, B.; Ridgway, S.; Woodruff, R.; Tanaka, S.; Warren, M.

2006-12-01

The phase-induced amplitude apodization (PIAA) coronagraph combines the main advantages of classical pupil apodization with high throughput ( 100%), high angular resolution ( 2λ/D) and low chromaticity. These advantages can allow direct imaging of nearby extrasolar planets with a 4-meter telescope. The PIAA coronagraph laboratory prototype has been successfully manufactured and starts to operate at the Subary Telescope facility. We present here our first laboratory results with this prototype where we have achieved 2x10-6 contrast within 2 λ/D. We also discuss the main constrains limiting the contrast and describe our future efforts. This work was carried out under JPL contract numbers 1254445 and 1257767 for Development of Technologies for the Terrestrial Planet Finder Mission, with the support and hospitality of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.

Mucocele of the appendix: An unusual cause of lower abdominal pain in a patient with ulcerative colitis-. A case report and review of literature

PubMed Central

Lakatos, Peter Laszlo; Gyori, Gabriella; Halasz, Judit; Fuszek, Peter; Papp, Janos; Jaray, Balazs; Lukovich, Peter; Lakatos, Laszlo

2005-01-01

The authors report the case of a 60-year-old male patient. In November 2001 he developed intestinal symptoms of bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Colonoscopy and biopsy established the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (proctosigmoiditis). The disease activity was moderate at the beginning. No significant laboratory alterations were found (including CEA, CA19-9), and mesalazine was started orally. He was in remission until November 2003, when he was admitted to our Outpatient Clinic for upper and right lower abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Colonoscopy found proctosigmoiditis with a moderate activity, gastroscopy revealed chronic gastritis, laboratory data was normal. Treatment was amended with mesalazine clysma and methylprednisolone (16 mg) orally. Symptoms ameliorated; however, right lower abdominal pain persisted. US and CT examination demonstrated a pericecal cystic mass (11 cm×3.5 cm). At first pericecal abscess was suspected, as the previous US examination (6 mo earlier) had revealed normal findings. Fine needle aspiration was performed. Cytology confirmed the diagnosis of mucocele. The patient underwent partial cecum resection and extirpation of the mucocele. He recovered well and the final histology revealed a cystadenoma of the appendix. Follow up was started. The patient is now free of symptoms. Although primary adenocarcinoma of the appendix is uncommon, the authors emphasize that preoperative diagnosis of an underlying malignancy in a mucocele is important for patient management; however, it is difficult on imaging studies. PMID:15637769

Associations between number of consecutive night shifts and impairment of neurobehavioral performance during a subsequent simulated night shift.

PubMed

Magee, Michelle; Sletten, Tracey L; Ferguson, Sally A; Grunstein, Ronald R; Anderson, Clare; Kennaway, David J; Lockley, Steven W; Rajaratnam, Shantha Mw

2016-05-01

This study aimed to investigate sleep and circadian phase in the relationships between neurobehavioral performance and the number of consecutive shifts worked. Thirty-four shift workers [20 men, mean age 31.8 (SD 10.9) years] worked 2-7 consecutive night shifts immediately prior to a laboratory-based, simulated night shift. For 7 days prior, participants worked their usual shift sequence, and sleep was assessed with logs and actigraphy. Participants completed a 10-minute auditory psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) at the start (~21:00 hours) and end (~07:00 hours) of the simulated night shift. Mean reaction times (RT), number of lapses and RT distribution was compared between those who worked 2-3 consecutive night shifts versus those who worked 4-7 shifts. Following 4-7 shifts, night shift workers had significantly longer mean RT at the start and end of shift, compared to those who worked 2-3 shifts. The slowest and fastest 10% RT were significantly slower at the start, but not end, of shift among participants who worked 4-7 nights. Those working 4-7 nights also demonstrated a broader RT distribution at the start and end of shift and had significantly slower RT based on cumulative distribution analysis (5 (th), 25 (th), 50 (th), 75 (th)percentiles at the start of shift; 75th percentile at the end of shift). No group differences in sleep parameters were found for 7 days and 24 hours prior to the simulated night shift. A greater number of consecutive night shifts has a negative impact on neurobehavioral performance, likely due to cognitive slowing.

Urgent-Start Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis in ESRD Patients: Complications and Outcomes.

PubMed

Jin, Haijiao; Fang, Wei; Zhu, Mingli; Yu, Zanzhe; Fang, Yan; Yan, Hao; Zhang, Minfang; Wang, Qin; Che, Xiajing; Xie, Yuanyuan; Huang, Jiaying; Hu, Chunhua; Zhang, Haifen; Mou, Shan; Ni, Zhaohui

2016-01-01

Several studies have suggested that urgent-start peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a feasible alternative to hemodialysis (HD) in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), but the impact of the dialysis modality on outcome, especially on short-term complications, in urgent-start dialysis has not been directly evaluated. The aim of the current study was to compare the complications and outcomes of PD and HD in urgent-start dialysis ESRD patients. In this retrospective study, ESRD patients who initiated dialysis urgently without a pre-established functional vascular access or PD catheter at a single center from January 2013 to December 2014 were included. Patients were grouped according to their dialysis modality (PD and HD). Each patient was followed for at least 30 days after catheter insertion (until January 2016). Dialysis-related complications and patient survival were compared between the two groups. Our study enrolled 178 patients (56.2% male), of whom 96 and 82 patients were in the PD and HD groups, respectively. Compared with HD patients, PD patients had more cardiovascular disease, less heart failure, higher levels of serum potassium, hemoglobin, serum albumin, serum pre-albumin, and lower levels of brain natriuretic peptide. There were no significant differences in gender, age, use of steroids, early referral to a nephrologist, prevalence of primary renal diseases, prevalence of co-morbidities, and other laboratory characteristics between the groups. The incidence of dialysis-related complications during the first 30 days was significantly higher in HD than PD patients. HD patients had a significantly higher probability of bacteremia compared to PD patients. HD was an independent predictor of short-term (30-day) dialysis-related complications. There was no significant difference between PD and HD patients with respect to patient survival rate. In an experienced center, PD is a safe and feasible dialysis alternative to HD for ESRD patients with an urgent need for dialysis.

Space station, 1959 to . .

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butler, G. V.

1981-04-01

Early space station designs are considered, taking into account Herman Oberth's first space station, the London Daily Mail Study, the first major space station design developed during the moon mission, and the Manned Orbiting Laboratory Program of DOD. Attention is given to Skylab, new space station studies, the Shuttle and Spacelab, communication satellites, solar power satellites, a 30 meter diameter radiometer for geological measurements and agricultural assessments, the mining of the moons, and questions of international cooperation. It is thought to be very probable that there will be very large space stations at some time in the future. However, for the more immediate future a step-by-step development that will start with Spacelab stations of 3-4 men is envisaged.

Efficacy of a novel topical combination of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene for treatment and control of induced infestations with four North American tick species (Dermacentor variabilis, Ixodes scapularis, Amblyomma americanum and Amblyomma maculatum) on dogs.

PubMed

Baker, Christine F; Hunter, James S; McCall, John W; Young, David R; Hair, Jakie A; Everett, William R; Yoon, Stephen S; Irwin, Jennifer P; Young, Stephanie L; Cramer, Luiz G; Pollmeier, Matthias G; Prullage, Joseph B

2011-07-15

Five laboratory studies were conducted to confirm that a single topical dose of the novel combination of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene, CERTIFECT™ (Merial Limited, GA, USA), is efficacious for the rapid control of pre-existing infestations and the prevention of new infestations with Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis, Amblyomma americanum and Amblyomma maculatum for at least 28 days on dogs. In each study, 8 male and 8 female purpose-bred, laboratory beagles were randomly assigned to one of two study groups (treated and untreated). Starting on the day before treatment, each dog was infested weekly with about 30 or 50 ticks, depending on the study. Treatment with the novel combination rapidly eliminated pre-existing infestations and controlled weekly re-infestations for at least 28 days. Pre-existing infestations with all four tick species were rapidly and effectively reduced, with post-treatment therapeutic efficacies ranging from 91.7 to 99.5% within 18-48 h post treatment. Amblyomma maculatum numbers were significantly (p<0.05) reduced on treated dogs from the first tick counts as early as 6h post-treatment. All subsequent infestations with each of the 4 tick species were quickly disrupted, with prophylactic efficacies greater than 90% within 18-48 h post-infestation for at least a full month. Because the combination of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene quickly starts disrupting and killing ixodid ticks within hours of treatment, with similar high levels of efficacy maintained for at least 28 days in these and other studies, the authors conclude that a single topical treatment with CERTIFECT may prevent the transmission of most infectious agents carried by ixodid ticks for at least one month. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Start Up of a Nb-1%Zr Potassium Heat Pipe From the Frozen State

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glass, David E.; Merrigan, Michael A.; Sena, J. Tom

1998-01-01

The start up of a liquid metal heat pipe from the frozen state was evaluated experimentally with a Nb-1%Zr heat pipe with potassium as the working fluid. The heat pipe was fabricated and tested at Los Alamos National Laboratory. RF induction heating was used to heat 13 cm of the 1-m-long heat pipe. The heat pipe and test conditions are well characterized so that the test data may be used for comparison with numerical analyses. An attempt was made during steady state tests to calibrate the heat input so that the heat input would be known during the transient cases. The heat pipe was heated to 675 C with a throughput of 600 W and an input heat flux of 6 W/cm(exp 2). Steady state tests, start up from the frozen state, and transient variations from steady state were performed.

Electro-thermal modelling of polymer lithium batteries for starting period and pulse power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baudry, P.; Neri, M.; Gueguen, M.; Lonchampt, G.

Since power capabilities of solid polymer lithium batteries can only be delivered above 60 °C, the thermal management in electric-vehicle applications has to be carefully considered. Electro-thermal modelling of a thermally insulated 200 kg battery was performed, and electrochemical data were obtained from laboratory cell impedance measurements at 20 and 80 °C. Starting at 20 °C as initial working temperature, the battery reaches 40 °C after 150 s of discharge in a 0.5 Ω resistance. At 40 °C, the useful peak power is 20 kW. The energy expense for heating the battery from 20 to 40 °C is 1.4 kWh, corresponding to 6% of the energy available in the battery. After a stand-by period of 24 h, the temperature decreases from 80 to 50 °C, allowing efficient starting conditions.

[Hematologic, biochemical, and immunological tests in clinical practice of rheumatoid arthritis].

PubMed

Yukawa, Naoichiro; Mimori, Tsuneyo

2013-07-01

In clinical practice of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), various kinds of laboratory tests are required for diagnosis, assessment of the disease activity, assessment of complications and risk factors before starting therapy, and assessment of adverse effects during the therapy. Anemia, thrombocytosis, and leukocytosis are common in active RA. During RA therapies, liver function tests (including ALT and AST) and renal function tests (including serum creatinine and urinalysis) should be performed. Anti-CCP antibody is an especially useful marker for diagnosis of RA, and the presence of the antibody has been included in ACR/EULAR 2010 RA classification criteria. Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) after immunosuppressive therapies is a potentially serious complication. HBc and/or HBs antibodies should be measured before starting the therapies even if HBs antigen is negative, and appropriate interventions including measurement of HBV-DNA and starting prophylaxis (entecavir is recommended) should be performed.

Laboratory Directed Research and Development FY2001 Annual Report

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

Al-Ayat, R

2002-06-20

Established by Congress in 1991, the Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program provides the Department of Energy (DOE)/National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) laboratories, like Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL or the Laboratory), with the flexibility to invest up to 6% of their budget in long-term, high-risk, and potentially high payoff research and development (R&D) activities to support the DOE/NNSA's national security missions. By funding innovative R&D, the LDRD Program at LLNL develops and extends the Laboratory's intellectual foundations and maintains its vitality as a premier research institution. As proof of the Program's success, many of the research thrusts thatmore » started many years ago under LDRD sponsorship are at the core of today's programs. The LDRD Program, which serves as a proving ground for innovative ideas, is the Laboratory's most important single resource for fostering excellent science and technology for today's needs and tomorrow's challenges. Basic and applied research activities funded by LDRD enhance the Laboratory's core strengths, driving its technical vitality to create new capabilities that enable LLNL to meet DOE/NNSA's national security missions. The Program also plays a key role in building a world-class multidisciplinary workforce by engaging the Laboratory's best researchers, recruiting its future scientists and engineers, and promoting collaborations with all sectors of the larger scientific community.« less

K(3)EDTA Vacuum Tubes Validation for Routine Hematological Testing.

PubMed

Lima-Oliveira, Gabriel; Lippi, Giuseppe; Salvagno, Gian Luca; Montagnana, Martina; Poli, Giovanni; Solero, Giovanni Pietro; Picheth, Geraldo; Guidi, Gian Cesare

2012-01-01

Background and Objective. Some in vitro diagnostic devices (e.g, blood collection vacuum tubes and syringes for blood analyses) are not validated before the quality laboratory managers decide to start using or to change the brand. Frequently, the laboratory or hospital managers select the vacuum tubes for blood collection based on cost considerations or on relevance of a brand. The aim of this study was to validate two dry K(3)EDTA vacuum tubes of different brands for routine hematological testing. Methods. Blood specimens from 100 volunteers in two different K(3)EDTA vacuum tubes were collected by a single, expert phlebotomist. The routine hematological testing was done on Advia 2120i hematology system. The significance of the differences between samples was assessed by paired Student's t-test after checking for normality. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results and Conclusions. Different brand's tubes evaluated can represent a clinically relevant source of variations only on mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW). Basically, our validation will permit the laboratory or hospital managers to select the brand's vacuum tubes validated according to him/her technical or economical reasons for routine hematological tests.

K3EDTA Vacuum Tubes Validation for Routine Hematological Testing

PubMed Central

Lima-Oliveira, Gabriel; Lippi, Giuseppe; Salvagno, Gian Luca; Montagnana, Martina; Poli, Giovanni; Solero, Giovanni Pietro; Picheth, Geraldo; Guidi, Gian Cesare

2012-01-01

Background and Objective. Some in vitro diagnostic devices (e.g, blood collection vacuum tubes and syringes for blood analyses) are not validated before the quality laboratory managers decide to start using or to change the brand. Frequently, the laboratory or hospital managers select the vacuum tubes for blood collection based on cost considerations or on relevance of a brand. The aim of this study was to validate two dry K3EDTA vacuum tubes of different brands for routine hematological testing. Methods. Blood specimens from 100 volunteers in two different K3EDTA vacuum tubes were collected by a single, expert phlebotomist. The routine hematological testing was done on Advia 2120i hematology system. The significance of the differences between samples was assessed by paired Student's t-test after checking for normality. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results and Conclusions. Different brand's tubes evaluated can represent a clinically relevant source of variations only on mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW). Basically, our validation will permit the laboratory or hospital managers to select the brand's vacuum tubes validated according to him/her technical or economical reasons for routine hematological tests. PMID:22888448

A State-of-the-Art Experimental Laboratory for Cloud and Cloud-Aerosol Interaction Research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fremaux, Charles M.; Bushnell, Dennis M.

2011-01-01

The state of the art for predicting climate changes due to increasing greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere with high accuracy is problematic. Confidence intervals on current long-term predictions (on the order of 100 years) are so large that the ability to make informed decisions with regard to optimum strategies for mitigating both the causes of climate change and its effects is in doubt. There is ample evidence in the literature that large sources of uncertainty in current climate models are various aerosol effects. One approach to furthering discovery as well as modeling, and verification and validation (V&V) for cloud-aerosol interactions is use of a large "cloud chamber" in a complimentary role to in-situ and remote sensing measurement approaches. Reproducing all of the complex interactions is not feasible, but it is suggested that the physics of certain key processes can be established in a laboratory setting so that relevant fluid-dynamic and cloud-aerosol phenomena can be experimentally simulated and studied in a controlled environment. This report presents a high-level argument for significantly improved laboratory capability, and is meant to serve as a starting point for stimulating discussion within the climate science and other interested communities.

Time Resolved Measurements of Speciated Tailpipe Emissions from Motor Vehicles: Trends with Emission Control Technology, Cold Start Effects, and Speciation.

PubMed

Drozd, Greg T; Zhao, Yunliang; Saliba, Georges; Frodin, Bruce; Maddox, Christine; Weber, Robert J; Chang, M-C Oliver; Maldonado, Hector; Sardar, Satya; Robinson, Allen L; Goldstein, Allen H

2016-12-20

Experiments were conducted at the California Air Resources Board Haagen-Smit Laboratory to understand changes in vehicle emissions in response to stricter emissions standards over the past 25 years. Measurements included a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for a wide range of spark ignition gasoline vehicles meeting varying levels of emissions standards, including all certifications from Tier 0 up to Partial Zero Emission Vehicle. Standard gas chromatography (GC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HLPC) analyses were employed for drive-cycle phase emissions. A proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometer measured time-resolved emissions for a wide range of VOCs. Cold-start emissions occur almost entirely in the first 30-60 s for newer vehicles. Cold-start emissions have compositions that are not significantly different across all vehicles tested and are markedly different from neat fuel. Hot-stabilized emissions have varying importance depending on species and may require a driving distance of 200 miles to equal the emissions from a single cold start. Average commute distances in the U.S. suggest the majority of in-use vehicles have emissions dominated by cold starts. The distribution of vehicle ages in the U.S. suggests that within several years only a few percent of vehicles will have significant driving emissions compared to cold-start emissions.

Dental Technicians' Pneumoconiosis; Illness Behind a Healthy Smile – Case Series of a Reference Center in Turkey

PubMed Central

Alici, Nur Şafak; Beyan, Ayşe Coşkun; Demıral, Yücel; Çimrin, Arif

2018-01-01

Background: Dental laboratories include many hazards and risks. Dental technicians working in an unfavorable work environment in Turkey and other parts of the world may develop pneumoconiosis as a result of exposure to dust, depending on exposure time. In this study, we aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratory findings of dental technicians. Materials and Methods: The study consists of a case series. Between 2013 and 2016, a total of 70 who were working as a dental technician and referred to our clinic with suspicion of occupational disease were evaluated. Comprehensive work-history, physical examination complaints, functional status, chest X-ray, and high-resolution computed lung tomography (HRCT) findings were evaluated. Results: In all, 46 (65.7%) of the 70 dental technicians were diagnosed with pneumoconiosis. About 45 (97.8%) subjects were male and 1 (2.2%) was female. The mean age of starting to work was 15.89 ± 2.79 (11-23) years. The mix dust exposure time was 176.13 ± 73.97 (18-384) months. Small round opacities were most common finding. In 16 patients, high profusion being 2/3 and above were identified, and large opacity was detected in 11 patients. The radiological profusion had a weak negative correlation with FEV 1 and FVC (correlation coefficient − 0.18, P = 0.210 and − 0.058, P = 0704) and moderate negative correlation between radiological profusion and FEV1/FVC (correlation coefficient − 0.377, P = 0.010). In addition, no correlation was observed between the age at start of work and the duration of exposure. Conclusion: The presence of pneumoconiosis continues in dental technicians in Turkey, especially because there is an early childhood apprenticeship culture and almost all workers in this period have the history of sandblasting. PMID:29743783

A journey from nuclear criticality methods to high energy density radflow experiments

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

Urbatsch, Todd James

Los Alamos National Laboratory is a nuclear weapons laboratory supporting our nation's defense. In support of this mission is a high energy-density physics program in which we design and execute experiments to study radiationhydrodynamics phenomena and improve the predictive capability of our largescale multi-physics software codes on our big-iron computers. The Radflow project’s main experimental effort now is to understand why we haven't been able to predict opacities on Sandia National Laboratory's Z-machine. We are modeling an increasing fraction of the Z-machine's dynamic hohlraum to find multi-physics explanations for the experimental results. Further, we are building an entirely different opacitymore » platform on Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's National Ignition Facility (NIF), which is set to get results early 2017. Will the results match our predictions, match the Z-machine, or give us something entirely different? The new platform brings new challenges such as designing hohlraums and spectrometers. The speaker will recount his history, starting with one-dimensional Monte Carlo nuclear criticality methods in graduate school, radiative transfer methods research and software development for his first 16 years at LANL, and, now, radflow technology and experiments. Who knew that the real world was more than just radiation transport? Experiments aren't easy and they are as saturated with politics as a presidential election, but they sure are fun.« less

Meeting the challenges of globalisation and miniaturisation in laboratory services.

PubMed

Melo, Murilo R; Rosenfeld, Luiz Gastão

2007-12-01

In the recent years, two trends emerged in the clinical laboratory: the miniaturisation of equipments to provide point-of-care testing (POCT) and a concentration of laboratories through mergers and acquisitions. New technology has expanded both opportunities. POCT provides the benefit of a convenient test where it is needed, i.e. near the patient. For companies, it is easier and cheaper to develop such tests, since technical requirements are somewhat less stringent, being an interesting area for start-ups. Nanotechnology is one of the most fascinating technical advances, with some advocating a US$1 trillion market-size for it by 2015. Laboratory tests and biomaterials will probably be greatly influenced by it, with new approaches for molecular diagnosis, with tests that can target both DNA and proteins in a process that eliminates PCR and allows multiplex analysis. On the other hand, there is a strong trend towards the globalisation of clinical laboratories and that occurs in four areas: a) Consumption of health services abroad; b) Movement of Health Personnel; c) Cross-Border delivery of trade; and d) Commercial presence. Each of these areas presents new challenges and opportunities for clinical laboratories, what will certainly shape the way we work today and in the future.

Development of space simulation / net-laboratory system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usui, H.; Matsumoto, H.; Ogino, T.; Fujimoto, M.; Omura, Y.; Okada, M.; Ueda, H. O.; Murata, T.; Kamide, Y.; Shinagawa, H.; Watanabe, S.; Machida, S.; Hada, T.

A research project for the development of space simulation / net-laboratory system was approved by Japan Science and Technology Corporation (JST) in the category of Research and Development for Applying Advanced Computational Science and Technology(ACT-JST) in 2000. This research project, which continues for three years, is a collaboration with an astrophysical simulation group as well as other space simulation groups which use MHD and hybrid models. In this project, we develop a proto type of unique simulation system which enables us to perform simulation runs by providing or selecting plasma parameters through Web-based interface on the internet. We are also developing an on-line database system for space simulation from which we will be able to search and extract various information such as simulation method and program, manuals, and typical simulation results in graphic or ascii format. This unique system will help the simulation beginners to start simulation study without much difficulty or effort, and contribute to the promotion of simulation studies in the STP field. In this presentation, we will report the overview and the current status of the project.

Treatment modalities in children with teeth affected by molar-incisor enamel hypomineralisation (MIH): A systematic review.

PubMed

Lygidakis, N A

2010-04-01

This was to review the literature concerning the treatment of permanent teeth with molar-incisor hypomineralised enamel (MIH), comment about possible shortcomings and propose areas of future research. A search of MedLine, Scopus, ResearchGate, Isis and Google Scholar databases was conducted using all terms relevant to the subject. Relevant papers published in English were identified after a review of their titles, abstracts or full reading of the papers. Of 189 references initially found, 66 papers were included; 34 directly relevant to the subject. From the latter, only 14 concerned laboratory or clinical studies dealing with treatment for MIH. Since 2000 11 reviews evaluated, to a certain extent, treatment options for affected teeth. Analysis of the proposed treatment modalities indicated options for prevention, restorations, and adhesion to hypomineralised enamel, full coronal coverage and extraction followed by orthodontics. Based on these findings, a treatment decision plan is proposed. Although treatment approaches for MIH have started to be clearer, long-term clinical trials, supported by laboratory studies, should be conducted to further facilitate the clinical management of this dental defect.

First results on Ge resonant laser photoionization in hollow cathode lamp

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

Scarpa, Daniele, E-mail: daniele.scarpa@lnl.infn.it; Andrighetto, Alberto; Barzakh, Anatoly

2016-02-15

In the framework of the research and development activities of the SPES project regarding the optimization of the radioactive beam production, a dedicated experimental study has been recently started in order to investigate the possibility of in-source ionization of germanium using a set of tunable dye lasers. Germanium is one of the beams to be accelerated by the SPES ISOL facility, which is under construction at Legnaro INFN Laboratories. The three-step, two color ionization schemes have been tested using a Ge hollow cathode lamp. The slow and the fast optogalvanic signals were detected and averaged by an oscilloscope as amore » proof of the laser ionization inside the lamp. As a result, several wavelength scans across the resonances of ionization schemes were collected with the fast optogalvanic signal. Some comparisons of ionization efficiency for different ionization schemes were made. Furthermore, saturation curves of the first excitation transitions have been obtained. This investigation method and the setup built in the laser laboratory of the SPES project can be applied for the photo-ionization scheme studies also for the other possible radioactive elements.« less

[Los laboratorios de la Junta para Ampliación de Estudios e Investigaciones Científicas (J.A.E.) y la Residencia de Estudiantes (1912-1939)].

PubMed

Barona, Josep L

2007-01-01

The policy of promoting fellowships abroad by the JAE for young scientist had an important complement in the foundation of a series of small scientific laboratories and research centres joined basically under the National Institute of Science and the Residencia de Estudiantes. The present article offers a general perspective of the activities developed by some of those laboratories, their main protagonists and research groups, particularly those related to biomedical research. The scientific task developed by the Instituto Cajal and the Natural Sciences Museum is not directly considered, since other contributions in this monographic issue regard those institutions. The process of creation of small teaching and research laboratories since 1912 is shown, and their participation in the university experimental teaching during the 1920s, especially regarding the Residencia de Estudiantes laboratories. Among them, the Laboratory of General Physiology lead by Juan Negrín. The significance of his physiological school is shown as well as the starting point of the scientific career of Severo Ochoa.

A quality management systems approach for CD4 testing in resource-poor settings.

PubMed

Westerman, Larry E; Kohatsu, Luciana; Ortiz, Astrid; McClain, Bernice; Kaplan, Jonathan; Spira, Thomas; Marston, Barbara; Jani, Ilesh V; Nkengasong, John; Parsons, Linda M

2010-10-01

Quality assurance (QA) is a systematic process to monitor and improve clinical laboratory practices. The fundamental components of a laboratory QA program include providing a functional and safe laboratory environment, trained and competent personnel, maintained equipment, adequate supplies and reagents, testing of appropriate specimens, internal monitoring of quality, accurate reporting, and external quality assessments. These components are necessary to provide accurate and precise CD4 T-cell counts, an essential test to evaluate start of and monitor effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected patients. In recent years, CD4 testing has expanded dramatically in resource-limited settings. Information on a CD4 QA program as described in this article will provide guidelines not only for clinical laboratory staff but also for managers of programs responsible for supporting CD4 testing. All agencies involved in implementing CD4 testing must understand the needs of the laboratory and provide advocacy, guidance, and financial support to established CD4 testing sites and programs. This article describes and explains the procedures that must be put in place to provide reliable CD4 determinations in a variety of settings.

Emergency radiobioassay preparedness exercises through the NIST radiochemistry intercomparison program.

PubMed

Nour, Svetlana; LaRosa, Jerry; Inn, Kenneth G W

2011-08-01

The present challenge for the international emergency radiobioassay community is to analyze contaminated samples rapidly while maintaining high quality results. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) runs a radiobioassay measurement traceability testing program to evaluate the radioanalytical capabilities of participating laboratories. The NIST Radiochemistry Intercomparison Program (NRIP) started more than 10 years ago, and emergency performance testing was added to the program seven years ago. Radiobioassay turnaround times under the NRIP program for routine production and under emergency response scenarios are 60 d and 8 h, respectively. Because measurement accuracy and sample turnaround time are very critical in a radiological emergency, response laboratories' analytical systems are best evaluated and improved through traceable Performance Testing (PT) programs. The NRIP provides participant laboratories with metrology tools to evaluate their performance and to improve it. The program motivates the laboratories to optimize their methodologies and minimize the turnaround time of their results. Likewise, NIST has to make adjustments and periodical changes in the bioassay test samples in order to challenge the participating laboratories continually. With practice, radioanalytical measurements turnaround time can be reduced to 3-4 h.

Use of Chiral Oxazolidinones for a Multi-Step Synthetic Laboratory Module

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Betush, Matthew P.; Murphree, S. Shaun

2009-01-01

Chiral oxazolidinone chemistry is used as a framework for an advanced multi-step synthesis lab. The cost-effective and robust preparation of chiral starting materials is presented, as well as the use of chiral auxiliaries in a synthesis scheme that is appropriate for students currently in the second semester of the organic sequence. (Contains 1…

Laboratory Experiments as a Tool in the Empirical Economic Analysis of High-Expectation Entrepreneurship

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Curley, Martin; Formica, Piero

2008-01-01

High-expectation start-ups are firms launched by entrepreneurs with high ambitions for growth. The encounter between new technology and entrepreneurship that characterizes such new ventures has a significant impact on the nature and speed of economic development, driving the growth of high-technology industries and helping to make the economic…

Solution of the General Helmholtz Equation Starting from Laplace’s Equation

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-11-01

infinity for the two dimensional case. For the 3D the general form case, this term does not exist, as the potential at infinity is zero. Hence the Green’s...companies. She has assisted the Comisi6n the Living System Laboratory, Interministerial de Ciencia y Tecnologia (National LG Electronics, From 1998 to 2000

Claims for Solar Cell Efficiency Put to Test at NREL | News | NREL

Science.gov Websites

cell. The record was confirmed by AIST. NREL and the other the laboratories testing these high containers with zero oxygen and zero water vapor, and were sealed in chambers that maintained zero oxygen , zero water," Emery said. "As soon as we opened the containers the cells started degrading, so

Optimized Breech Location in the Harry Diamond Laboratories 4-Inch Gas Gun

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-04-01

GAMA-iy*SQRrA BAR*(1-FRAC L~(GAMA-1))) IF INIT_G(BRL%)<=START TJ - THEN PRINT #BRL% USTNG FORM4$,INIT G(BRL%).VEL ELSE FLAG( BRU ) = 1 - 130 NEXT...CA 93041 COMMANDER DAVID W. TAYLOR NAVAL SHIP RESEARCH S DEVELOPMENT CENTER ATTN ELIZABETH DEMPSEY, CODE 534 ATTN PAUL GRANVILLE, CODE 581

Safety in the Chemical Laboratory--Safety Education for Chemistry Students: Hazard Control Starting at the Source.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zwaard, A. W.; And Others

1989-01-01

Presents a programed method that inventories and classifies hazards. 8iscusses the following topics: (1) student and hazard source, (2) elimination of the source, (3) adaptation of the source, (4) isolation of the source, (5) adjustment of the surroundings, (6) isolation of man, and (7) personal protective equipment. (MVL)

The prehistory of the cytoskeleton concept.

PubMed

Zampieri, Fabio; Coen, Matteo; Gabbiani, Giulio

2014-08-01

Here we discuss how the concept and the name of cytoskeleton were generated and started to evolve over the last two centuries into what is presently a basic topic of modern biology. We also attempt to describe some facets of the emergence of cytoskeleton component characterization in which our laboratory was in part involved. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Overview of Research Activities on Time and Frequency at the Communications Research Laboratory

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-12-01

efforts to construct a TwoWay Satellite Time and Frequency Transfer ( TWSTFT ) network in Asian-Pacific region for next generation accurate and precise time...started TWSTFT with CRL since March, 1999. We use INTELSAT 702 for CRL-NML LINK and JCSAT-3 for both CRL-CSAO and CRL-NRLM links. We are going to

Induction of Colon Cancer in Mice with 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine.

PubMed

Gurley, Kay E; Moser, Russell D; Kemp, Christopher J

2015-09-01

In this protocol, colon cancer is induced in mice through a series of injections with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine. Mice will develop primarily colon tumors starting at about 3 mo after the first injection. Tumors in the lung, uterus, and small intestine may also be seen, as well as lymphomas. © 2015 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

Characterization of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist Therapy Initiation in High-Risk Patients With Heart Failure.

PubMed

Cooper, Lauren B; Hammill, Bradley G; Peterson, Eric D; Pitt, Bertram; Maciejewski, Matthew L; Curtis, Lesley H; Hernandez, Adrian F

2017-01-01

Heart failure guidelines recommend routine monitoring of serum potassium, and renal function in patients treated with a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA). How these recommendations are implemented in high-risk patients or according to setting of drug initiation is poorly characterized. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries linked to laboratory data in 10 states with prevalent heart failure as of July 1, 2011, and incident MRA use between May 1 and September 30, 2011. Outcomes included laboratory testing before MRA initiation and in the early (days 1-10) and extended (days 11-90) post-initiation periods, based on setting of drug initiation and the presence of renal insufficiency. Additional outcomes included abnormal laboratory results and adverse events proximate to MRA initiation. Of 10 443 Medicare beneficiaries with heart failure started on an MRA, 19.7% were initiated during a hospitalization. Appropriate follow-up laboratory testing across all time periods occurred in 25.2% of patients with inpatient initiation compared with 2.8% of patients begun as an outpatient. Patients with chronic kidney disease had higher rates of both hyperkalemia and acute kidney failure in the early (1.3% and 2.7%, respectively) and extended (5.6% and 9.8%, respectively) post-initiation periods compared with those without chronic kidney disease. Patients initiated on MRA therapy as an outpatient had extremely poor rates of guideline indicated follow-up laboratory monitoring after drug initiation. In particular, patients with chronic kidney disease are at high risk for adverse events after MRA initiation. Quality improvement initiatives focused on systems to improve appropriate laboratory monitoring are needed. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Detailed Study of the Formation of Sugar Derivatives Produced from the UV Irradiation of Astrophysical Ice Analogs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nuevo, Michel; Cooper, George; Saunders, John; Buffo, Christina E.; Materese, Christopher K.; Sandford, Scott A.

2018-01-01

Carbonaceous meteorites such as Murchison contain a large variety of organic compounds of astrobiological interest such as amino acids, other amphiphilic compounds, functionalized nitrogen heterocycles (including nucleobases), functionalized polycylic aromatic hydro-carbons (including quinones), and sugar derivatives. The presence of such a broad variety of organics in meteorites strongly suggests that molecules essential to life can form abiotically under astrophysical conditions. This hypothesis is strongly supported by laboratory studies in which astrophysical ice analogs (i.e., mixtures of H2O, CO, CO2, CH3OH, CH4, NH3, etc.) are subjected to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation at low temperature (less than 15 K) to simulate cold interstellar environments. These studies have shown that the organic residues recovered at room temperature after irradiation contain organic compounds that are very similar to those found in meteorites. No systematic search for the presence of sugar derivatives in laboratory residues had been carried out until the recent detection of ribose, the sugar of RNA, as well as other sugars, sugar alcohols, and sugar acids in one residue produced from the UV irradiation of an ice mixture containing H2O, CH3OH, and NH3 at 80 K. In this work, we present a detailed study of the formation of sugar derivatives contained in organic residues that are produced from the UV irradiation of ice mixtures of different starting compositions (H2O, CH3OH, CO, CO2, and/or NH3) at less than 15 K. While the presence of sugar alcohols, sugars, and sugar acids-in some cases with up to 6 carbon atoms-could be confirmed in all these residues, their distribution was shown to vary with the composition of the starting ices. In particular, only a few ices result in the formation of sugar derivatives displaying a distribution that resembles that of meteorites, in which sugar alcohols and sugar acids are very abundant while sugars are mostly absent.

Clinical consequences of initial duloxetine dosing strategies: Comparison of 30 and 60 mg QD starting doses

PubMed Central

Dunner, David L.; Wohlreich, Madelaine M.; Mallinckrodt, Craig H.; Watkin, John G.; Fava, Maurizio

2005-01-01

Background: To reduce the risk for treatment-emergent adverse events and increase patient compliance, clinicians frequently prescribe a suboptimal starting dose of antidepressants, with the goal of increasing the dose once the patient has demonstrated tolerability. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the tolerability and effectiveness associated with an initial week of duloxetine hydrochloride treatment at 30 mg QD and subsequent dose increase to 60 mg QD, compared with a starting dose of 60 mg QD. Methods: In this open-label study, all patients met the criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) described in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Patients were required to wash out from previous antidepressant medications for 21 days, and were then randomized to receive duloxetine 30 or 60 mg QD for 1 week. After 1 week, patients receiving duloxetine 30 mg QD had their dose increased to 60 mg QD. Patients returned for assessments at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12. During the remainder of the 12-week study period, the duloxetine dose could be titrated based on the degree of response from 60 mg QD (minimum) to 120 mg QD (maximum), with 90 mg QD as an intermediate dose. Tolerability was assessed by means of discontinuation rates, spontaneously reported adverse events, changes in vital signs, and laboratory tests. Effectiveness measures included the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD17) total score, HAMD17 core and Maier subscales, individual HAMD17 items, the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety total score, and the Clinical Global Impression of Severity. Results: One hundred thirty-seven patients were enrolled (82 women, 55 men; mean age, 42 years; duloxetine 30 mg QD, 67 patients; duloxetine 60 mg QD, 70 patients). The rate of discontinuation due to adverse events did not differ significantly between patients starting duloxetine at 30 mg QD and 60 mg QD (13.4% vs 18.6%). The most frequently reported adverse events across both treatment groups were nausea, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, and diarrhea. In the first week of treatment, patients receiving duloxetine 30 mg QD had a significantly lower rate of nausea compared with patients receiving 60 mg QD (16.4% vs 32.9%; P = 0.03). Over the 12-week acute-treatment phase, patients starting duloxetine treatment at 30 mg QD had a significantly lower rate of nausea compared with patients initiating treatment at 60 mg QD (P = 0.047). Although between-group differences in the HAMD17 total score were not statistically significant at any visit, patients starting at 30 mg QD experienced significantly less improvement in HAMD17 core and Maier subscales at week 1 compared with patients starting at 60 mg QD (core, P= 0.044; Maier, P = 0.047). After 2 weeks of treatment, the magnitude of improvement among patients starting at 30 mg QD did not differ significantly from that observed in patients who started treatment at 60 mg QD, and there were no significant between-group differences in effectiveness at any subsequent visit. Conclusions: Results from this open-label study in patients with MDD suggest that starting duloxetine treatment at 30 mg QD for 1 week, followed by escalation to 60 mg QD, might reduce the risk for treatment-emergent nausea in these patients while producing only a transitory impact on effectiveness compared with a starting dose of 60 mg QD. PMID:24678074

Start-up of membrane bioreactor and hybrid moving bed biofilm reactor-membrane bioreactor: kinetic study.

PubMed

Leyva-Díaz, J C; Poyatos, J M

2015-01-01

A hybrid moving bed biofilm reactor-membrane bioreactor (hybrid MBBR-MBR) system was studied as an alternative solution to conventional activated sludge processes and membrane bioreactors. This paper shows the results obtained from three laboratory-scale wastewater treatment plants working in parallel in the start-up and steady states. The first wastewater treatment plant was a MBR, the second one was a hybrid MBBR-MBR system containing carriers both in anoxic and aerobic zones of the bioreactor (hybrid MBBR-MBRa), and the last one was a hybrid MBBR-MBR system which contained carriers only in the aerobic zone (hybrid MBBR-MBRb). The reactors operated with a hydraulic retention time of 30.40 h. A kinetic study for characterizing heterotrophic biomass was carried out and organic matter and nutrients removals were evaluated. The heterotrophic biomass of the hybrid MBBR-MBRb showed the best kinetic performance in the steady state, with yield coefficient for heterotrophic biomass=0.30246 mg volatile suspended solids per mg chemical oxygen demand, maximum specific growth rate for heterotrophic biomass=0.00308 h(-1) and half-saturation coefficient for organic matter=3.54908 mg O2 L(-1). The removal of organic matter was supported by the kinetic study of heterotrophic biomass.

Entrainment in Laboratory Simulations of Cumulus Cloud Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narasimha, R.; Diwan, S.; Subrahmanyam, D.; Sreenivas, K. R.; Bhat, G. S.

2010-12-01

A variety of cumulus cloud flows, including congestus (both shallow bubble and tall tower types), mediocris and fractus have been generated in a water tank by simulating the release of latent heat in real clouds. The simulation is achieved through ohmic heating, injected volumetrically into the flow by applying suitable voltages between diametral cross-sections of starting jets and plumes of electrically conducting fluid (acidified water). Dynamical similarity between atmospheric and laboratory cloud flows is achieved by duplicating values of an appropriate non-dimensional heat release number. Velocity measurements, made by laser instrumentation, show that the Taylor entrainment coefficient generally increases just above the level of commencement of heat injection (corresponding to condensation level in the real cloud). Subsequently the coefficient reaches a maximum before declining to the very low values that characterize tall cumulus towers. The experiments also simulate the protected core of real clouds. Cumulus Congestus : Atmospheric cloud (left), simulated laboratory cloud (right). Panels below show respectively total heat injected and vertical profile of heating in the laboratory cloud.

Simulation of General Physics laboratory exercise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aceituno, P.; Hernández-Aceituno, J.; Hernández-Cabrera, A.

2015-01-01

Laboratory exercises are an important part of general Physics teaching, both during the last years of high school and the first year of college education. Due to the need to acquire enough laboratory equipment for all the students, and the widespread access to computers rooms in teaching, we propose the development of computer simulated laboratory exercises. A representative exercise in general Physics is the calculation of the gravity acceleration value, through the free fall motion of a metal ball. Using a model of the real exercise, we have developed an interactive system which allows students to alter the starting height of the ball to obtain different fall times. The simulation was programmed in ActionScript 3, so that it can be freely executed in any operative system; to ensure the accuracy of the calculations, all the input parameters of the simulations were modelled using digital measurement units, and to allow a statistical management of the resulting data, measurement errors are simulated through limited randomization.

[Medical safety in infectious disease--chairmen's introductory remarks].

PubMed

Shimetani, Naoto; Miida, Takashi

2012-10-01

"The National Joint Action of Risk Management" was started in May 2008. The Japanese Society of Laboratory Medicine took this opportunity to set up a Medical Safety Committee as a participant in this Action. The Society holds symposia concerning medical safety to educate the Society members. Nosocomial infections are medical accidents. Whereas community-acquired infections are likely to develop depending on a balance between pathogens and hosts, nosocomial infections are implicated with medical practices, so they develop depending on the interrelationship among pathogens, hosts, and medical practices. Medical practices are mostly indispensable for providing medical services; therefore, activities against nosocomial infections are critical for establishing medical safety, freedom from anxiety, and reliability. Hence, this symposium deals with five themes: Countermeasures against and the management of needle-stick and cut accidents, collaboration between the infection control team (ICT) and the bacteriology laboratory, information transmission from the clinical laboratory department to physicians engaged in infectious disease treatment, utilization of laboratory data for infection control, and medical safety against tuberculosis infection.

[Establishment of a microbiology laboratory open 365 days a year and its impact].

PubMed

Komori, Toshiaki; Fujita, Naohisa; Hirose, Yuri; Kimura, Takeshi; Kyotani, Noriko; Kurahashi, Satoko; Yamada, Yukiji; Ushiyama, Masaji; Yasumoto, Towa; Yuasa, Soh-Ichi

2009-12-01

The microbiology laboratory of our university hospital aims to provide accurate and rapid microbiological results and useful information for healthcare workers involved in both the treatment of infectious diseases and infection control. For this purpose, we have been running a microbiology laboratory open 365 days a year since 2005. Before starting this laboratory, we formulated both a precise procedural manual and educational program to increase the number of microbiological technologists from 4 to 8 persons and improve their skills. Moreover, we reviewed the reporting system. As a result, we could report positive blood cultures up to 1.4 days earlier than previously possible, and significantly improved the prognosis of MRSA bacteremia patients by the early treatment of anti-MRSA antimicrobials within 48 hours after positive blood culture. In addition, the rate of MRSA/Staphylococcus aureus decreased to 35.8%. It is essential for the treatment of infectious diseases and infection control to accept only appropriate specimens and report the results rapidly and accurately.

Making ideas at scientific fabrication laboratories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fonda, Carlo; Canessa, Enrique

2016-11-01

Creativity, together with the making of ideas into fruition, is essential for progress. Today the evolution from an idea to its application can be facilitated by the implementation of Fabrication Laboratories, or FabLabs, having affordable digital tools for prototyping. FabLabs aiming at scientific research and invention are now starting to be established inside Universities, Research Centers and Schools. We review the setting up of the ICTP Scientific FabLab in Trieste, Italy, give concrete examples on the use in physics, and propose to replicate world-wide this class of multi-purpose workplaces within academia as a support for physics and math education and for community development.

Internet: road to heaven or hell for the clinical laboratory?

PubMed

Chou, D

1996-05-01

The Internet started as a research project by the Department of Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency for networking computers. Ironically, the networking project now predominantly supports human rather than computer communications. The Internet's growth, estimated at 20% per month, has been fueled by commercial and public perception that it will become an important medium for merchandising, marketing, and advertising. For the clinical laboratory, the Internet provides high-speed communications through e-mail and allows the retrieval of important information held in repositories. All this capability comes at a price, including the need to manage a complex technology and the risk of instrusions on patient privacy.

Attitude control system testing on SCOLE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shenhar, J.; Sparks, D., Jr.; Williams, J. P.; Montgomery, R. C.

1988-01-01

This paper presents implementation of two control policies on SCOLE (Space Control Laboratory Experiment), a laboratory apparatus representing an offset-feed antenna attached to the Space Shuttle by a flexible mast. In the first case, the flexible mast was restrained by cables, permitting modeling of SCOLE as a rigid-body. Starting from an arbitrary state, SCOLE was maneuvered to a specified terminal state using rigid-body minimum-time control law. In the second case, the so called single step optimal control (SSOC) theory is applied to suppress vibrations of the flexible mast mounted as a cantilever beam. Based on the SSOC theory, two parameter optimization algorithms were developed.

[EEQ in clinical embryology: a starting program].

PubMed

Boyer, Pierre; Brugnon, Florence; Levy, Rachel; Pfeffer, Jérôme; Siest, Jean-Pascal

2014-01-01

Every laboratory including those working in assisted reproductive technologies have to be accredited EN ISO 15189 before 2020. This standardisation includes an external quality evaluation (EQE). In order to work out an EQE tool, we used images extracted from our own database developed during daily practice. We achieved an easily online tool called: "EEQ en embryologie clinique", developed on Biologie prospective web site with ART French biologists Association (Blefco) expertise in evaluation of early human embryonic stages. In 2013, 38 ART laboratories participate to the first program with more than 90% of appropriates results. The present article aims at describing this tool and discussing its limits.

[Cardiac myopathy due to overt hypothyroidism].

PubMed

Harbeck, B; Berndt, M J; Lehnert, H

2014-03-01

A 51-year-old man presented with progressive tiredness, proximal muscle weakness, hair loss and weight gain for months. The patient showed mild pretibial myxedema and dry skin. Laboratory findings revealed strongly elevated cardiac enzymes as well as marked hypothyroidism. The electrocardiogram, echocardiography, abdominal sonography and chest X-ray were unremarkable. Thyroid ultrasound demonstrated features of Hashimoto thyroiditis. The findings supported the diagnosis of an overt hypothyroidism with myxedema and rhabdomyolysis. After starting levothyroxine and volume substitution laboratory parameters and clinical condition slowly normalized. Severe overt hypothyroidism may rarely present primarily as myopathy with myositis and cardiac involvement. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Interactive radiopharmaceutical facility between Yale Medical Center and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Progress report, October 1976-June 1979

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

Gottschalk, A.

1979-01-01

DOE Contract No. EY-76-S-02-4078 was started in October 1976 to set up an investigative radiochemical facility at the Yale Medical Center which would bridge the gap between current investigation with radionuclides at the Yale School of Medicine and the facilities in the Chemistry Department at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. To facilitate these goals, Dr. Mathew L. Thakur was recruited who joined the Yale University faculty in March of 1977. This report briefly summarizes our research accomplishments through the end of June 1979. These can be broadly classified into three categories: (1) research using indium-111 labelled cellular blood components; (2) developmentmore » of new radiopharmaceuticals; and (3) interaction with Dr. Alfred Wolf and colleagues in the Chemistry Department of Brookhaven National Laboratory.« less

Environmental regulation of plant gene expression: an RT-qPCR laboratory project for an upper-level undergraduate biochemistry or molecular biology course.

PubMed

Eickelberg, Garrett J; Fisher, Alison J

2013-01-01

We present a novel laboratory project employing "real-time" RT-qPCR to measure the effect of environment on the expression of the FLOWERING LOCUS C gene, a key regulator of floral timing in Arabidopsis thaliana plants. The project requires four 3-hr laboratory sessions and is aimed at upper-level undergraduate students in biochemistry or molecular biology courses. The project provides students with hands-on experience with RT-qPCR, the current "gold standard" for gene expression analysis, including detailed data analysis using the common 2-ΔΔCT method. Moreover, it provides a convenient starting point for many inquiry-driven projects addressing diverse questions concerning ecological biochemistry, naturally occurring genetic variation, developmental biology, and the regulation of gene expression in nature. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

US Naval Research Laboratory's Current Space Photovoltaic Experiemtns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jenkins, Phillip; Walters, Robert; Messenger, Scott; Krasowski, Michael

2008-09-01

The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has a rich history conducting space photovoltaic (PV) experiments starting with Vanguard I, the first solar powered satellite in 1958. Today, NRL in collaboration with the NASA Glenn Research Center, is engaged in three flight experiments demonstrating a wide range of PV technologies in both LEO and HEO orbits. The Forward Technology Solar Cell Experiment (FTSCE)[1], part of the 5th Materials on the International Space Station Experiment (MISSE-5), flew for 13 months on the International Space Station in 2005-2006. The FTSCE provided in-situ I-V monitoring of advanced III-V multi-junction cells and laboratory prototypes of thin film and other next generation technologies. Two experiments under development will provide more opportunities to demonstrate advanced solar cells and characterization electronics that are easily integrated on a wide variety of spacecraft bus architectures.

The COBRA demonstrator at the LNGS underground laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebert, J.; Fritts, M.; Gehre, D.; Gößling, C.; Göpfert, T.; Hagner, C.; Heidrich, N.; Klingenberg, R.; Köttig, T.; Kröninger, K.; Michel, T.; Neddermann, T.; Nitsch, C.; Oldorf, C.; Quante, T.; Rajek, S.; Rebber, H.; Reinecke, O.; Rohatsch, K.; Schulz, O.; Sörensen, A.; Stekl, I.; Tebrügge, J.; Temminghoff, R.; Theinert, R.; Timm, J.; Wester, T.; Wonsak, B.; Zatschler, S.; Zuber, K.

2016-01-01

The COBRA demonstrator, a prototype for a large-scale experiment searching for neutrinoless double beta-decay, was built at the underground laboratory Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso (LNGS) in Italy. It consists of an array of 64 monolithic, calorimetric CdZnTe semiconductor detectors with a coplanar-grid design and a total mass of 380 g. It is used to investigate the experimental challenges faced when operating CdZnTe detectors in low-background mode, to identify potential background sources and to show the long-term stability of the detectors. The first data-taking period started in 2011 with a subset of the detectors, while the demonstrator was completed in November 2013. To date, more than 250 kg d of data have been collected. This paper describes the technical details of the experimental setup and the hardware components.

Optimization experiments with a double Gauss lens

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

Brixner, B.; Klein, M.M.

1988-05-01

This paper describes how a lens can be generated by starting from plane surfaces. Three different experiments, using the Los Alamos National Laboratory optimization procedure, all converged on the same stable prescriptions in the optimum minimum region. The starts were made first from an already optimized lens appearing in the literature, then from a powerless plane-surfaces configuration, and finally from a crude Super Angulon configuration. In each case the result was a double Gauss lens, which suggests that this type of lens may be the best compact six-glass solution for one imaging problem: an f/2 aperture and a moderate fieldmore » of view. The procedures and results are discussed in detail.« less

Optimization Experiments With A Double Gauss Lens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brixner, Berlyn; Klein, Morris M.

1988-05-01

This paper describes how a lens can be generated by starting from plane surfaces. Three different experiments, using the Los Alamos National Laboratory optimization procedure, all converged on the same stable prescriptions in the optimum minimum region. The starts were made first from an already optimized lens appearing in the literature, then from a powerless plane-surfaces configuration, and finally from a crude Super Angulon configuration. In each case the result was a double Gauss lens, which suggests that this type of lens may be the best compact six-glass solution for one imaging problem: an f/2 aperture and a moderate field of view. The procedures and results are discussed in detail.

Evaluation of the technical performance of novel holotranscobalamin (holoTC) assays in a multicenter European demonstration project.

PubMed

Morkbak, Anne L; Heimdal, Randi M; Emmens, Kathleen; Molloy, Anne; Hvas, Anne-Mette; Schneede, Joern; Clarke, Robert; Scott, John M; Ueland, Per M; Nexo, Ebba

2005-01-01

A commercially available holotranscobalamin (holo-TC) radioimmunoassay (RIA) (Axis-Shield, Dundee, Scotland) was evaluated in four laboratories and compared with a holoTC ELISA run in one laboratory. The performance of the holoTC RIA assay was comparable in three of the four participating laboratories. The results from these three laboratories, involving at least 20 initial runs of "low", "medium" and "high" serum-based controls (mean holoTC concentrations 34, 60 and 110 pmol/L, respectively) yielded an intra-laboratory imprecision of 6-10%. No systematic inter-laboratory deviations were observed on runs involving 72 patient samples (holoTC concentration range 10-160 pmol/L). A fourth laboratory demonstrated higher assay imprecision for control samples and systematic deviation of results for the patient samples. Measurement of holoTC by ELISA showed an imprecision of 4-5%, and slightly higher mean values for the controls (mean holoTC concentrations 40, 70 and 114 pmol/L, respectively). Comparable results were obtained for the patient samples. The long-term intra-laboratory imprecision was 12% for the holoTC RIA and 6% for the ELISA. In conclusion, it would be prudent to check the calibration and precision prior to starting to use these holoTC assays in research or clinical practice. The results obtained using the holoTC RIA were similar to those obtained using the holoTC ELISA assay.

A Roadmap for Academic Health Centers to Establish Good Laboratory Practice-Compliant Infrastructure

PubMed Central

Adamo, Joan E.; Bauer, Gerhard; Berro, Marlene; Burnett, Bruce K.; Hartman, Karen A.; Masiello, Lisa M.; Moorman-White, Diane; Rubinstein, Eric P.; Schuff, Kathryn G.

2012-01-01

Prior to human clinical trials, nonclinical safety and toxicology studies are required to demonstrate that a new product appears safe for human testing; these nonclinical studies are governed by good laboratory practice (GLP) regulations. As academic health centers (AHCs) embrace the charge to increase the translation of basic science research into clinical discoveries, researchers at these institutions increasingly will be conducting GLP-regulated nonclinical studies. Because the consequences for noncompliance are severe and many AHC researchers are unfamiliar with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, the authors describe the regulatory requirements for conducting GLP research, including the strict documentation requirements, the necessary personnel training, the importance of study monitoring, and the critical role that compliance oversight plays in the process. They then explain the process that AHCs interested in conducting GLP studies should take prior to the start of their research program, including conducting a needs assessment and a gap analysis and selecting a model for GLP compliance. Finally, the authors identify and analyze several critical barriers to developing and implementing a GLP-compliant infrastructure at an AHC. Despite these challenges, the capacity to perform such research will help AHCs to build and maintain competitive research programs and to facilitate the successful translation of faculty-initiated research from nonclinical studies to first-in-human clinical trials. PMID:22373618

Look-Ahead Distance of a fiber probe used to assist neurosurgery: Phantom and Monte Carlo study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Zhiyu; Victor, Sunder S.; Gu, Yueqing; Giller, Cole A.; Liu, Hanli

2003-08-01

A short-separation, optical reflectance probe has been developed to assist the neurosurgeon in functional neurosurgery for accurate localization of the surgical target. Because of the scattering nature of tissue, the optical probe has a "Look Ahead Distance" (LAD), at which the measured optical reflectance starts to "see" or "sense" the underlying brain structure due to the difference in light scattering of tissue. To quantify the LAD, 2-layer laboratory phantoms have been developed to mimic gray and white matter of the brain, and Monte Carlo simulations have been also used to confirm the experimental findings. Based on both the laboratory and simulation results, a quantitative empirical equation is developed to express the LAD as a function of scattering coefficient of the measured tissue for a 400-micron-diameter fiber probe. The quantified LAD of the probe is highly desirable so as to improve the spatial resolution of the probe for better surgery guidance.

Improvement and validation of the method to determine neutral detergent fiber in feed.

PubMed

Hiraoka, Hisaaki; Fukunaka, Rie; Ishikuro, Eiichi; Enishi, Osamu; Goto, Tetsuhisa

2012-10-01

To improve the performance of the analytical method for neutral detergent fiber in feed with heat-stable α-amylase treatment (aNDFom), the process of adding heat-stable α-amylase, as well as other analytical conditions, were examined. In this new process, the starch in the samples was removed by adding amylase to neutral detergent (ND) solution twice, just after the start of heating and immediately after refluxing. We also examined the effects of the use of sodium sulfite, and drying and ashing conditions for aNDFom analysis by this modified amylase addition method. A collaborative study to validate this new method was carried out with 15 laboratories. These laboratories analyzed two samples, alfalfa pellet and dairy mixed feed, with blind duplicates. Ten laboratories used a conventional apparatus and five used a Fibertec(®) type apparatus. There were no significant differences in aNDFom values between these two refluxing apparatuses. The aNDFom values in alfalfa pellet and dairy mixed feed were 388 g/kg and 145 g/kg, the coefficients of variation for the repeatability and reproducibility (CV(r) and CV(R) ) were 1.3% and 2.9%, and the HorRat values were 0.8 and 1.1, respectively. This new method was validated with 5.8% uncertainty (k = 2) from the collaborative study. © 2012 The Authors. Animal Science Journal © 2012 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

Feasibility Assessment of CO2 Sequestration and Enhanced Recovery in Gas Shale Reservoirs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vermylen, J. P.; Hagin, P. N.; Zoback, M. D.

2008-12-01

CO2 sequestration and enhanced methane recovery may be feasible in unconventional, organic-rich, gas shale reservoirs in which the methane is stored as an adsorbed phase. Previous studies have shown that organic-rich, Appalachian Devonian shales adsorb approximately five times more carbon dioxide than methane at reservoir conditions. However, the enhanced recovery and sequestration concept has not yet been tested for gas shale reservoirs under realistic flow and production conditions. Using the lessons learned from previous studies on enhanced coalbed methane (ECBM) as a starting point, we are conducting laboratory experiments, reservoir modeling, and fluid flow simulations to test the feasibility of sequestration and enhanced recovery in gas shales. Our laboratory work investigates both adsorption and mechanical properties of shale samples to use as inputs for fluid flow simulation. Static and dynamic mechanical properties of shale samples are measured using a triaxial press under realistic reservoir conditions with varying gas saturations and compositions. Adsorption is simultaneously measured using standard, static, volumetric techniques. Permeability is measured using pulse decay methods calibrated to standard Darcy flow measurements. Fluid flow simulations are conducted using the reservoir simulator GEM that has successfully modeled enhanced recovery in coal. The results of the flow simulation are combined with the laboratory results to determine if enhanced recovery and CO2 sequestration is feasible in gas shale reservoirs.

In situ diffusion experiment in granite: Phase I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilks, P.; Cramer, J. J.; Jensen, M.; Miller, N. H.; Miller, H. G.; Stanchell, F. W.

2003-03-01

A program of in situ experiments, supported by laboratory studies, was initiated to study diffusion in sparsely fractured rock (SFR), with a goal of developing an understanding of diffusion processes within intact crystalline rock. Phase I of the in situ diffusion experiment was started in 1996, with the purpose of developing a methodology for estimating diffusion parameter values. Four in situ diffusion experiments, using a conservative iodide tracer, were performed in highly stressed SFR at a depth of 450 m in the Underground Research Laboratory (URL). The experiments, performed over a 2 year period, yielded rock permeability estimates of 2×10 -21 m 2 and effective diffusion coefficients varying from 2.1×10 -14 to 1.9×10 -13 m 2/s, which were estimated using the MOTIF code. The in situ diffusion profiles reveal a characteristic "dog leg" pattern, with iodide concentrations decreasing rapidly within a centimeter of the open borehole wall. It is hypothesized that this is an artifact of local stress redistribution and creation of a zone of increased constrictivity close to the borehole wall. A comparison of estimated in situ and laboratory diffusivities and permeabilities provides evidence that the physical properties of rock samples removed from high-stress regimes change. As a result of the lessons learnt during Phase I, a Phase II in situ program has been initiated to improve our general understanding of diffusion in SFR.

A Surface Science Paradigm for a Post-Huygens Titan Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimmerman, Wayne; Lunine, Jonathan; Lorenz, Ralph

2004-01-01

With the Cassini-Huygens atmospheric probe drop-off mission fast approaching, it is essential that scientists and engineers start scoping potential follow-on surface science missions. This paper provides a summary of the first year of a two year design study which examines in detail the desired surface science measurements and resolution, potential instrument suite, and complete payload delivery system. Also provided are design concepts for both an aerial inflatable mobility platform and deployable instrument sonde. The tethered deployable sonde provides the capability to sample nearsurface atmosphere, sub-surface liquid (if it exists), and surface solid material. Actual laboratory tests of the amphibious sonde prototype are also presented.

A Surface Science Paradigm for a Post-Huygens Titan Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimmerman, Wayne F.; Lunine, Jonathan; Lorenz, Ralph

2005-01-01

With the Cassini-Huygens atmospheric probe drop-off mission fast approaching, it is essential that scientists and engineers start scoping potential follow-on surface science missions. This paper provides a summary of the first year of a two year design study which examines in detail the desired surface science measurements and resolution, potential instrument suite, and complete payload delivery system. Also provided are design concepts for both an aerial inflatable mobility platform and deployable instrument sonde. The tethered deployable sonde provides the capability to sample near surface atmosphere, sub-surface liquid (if it exists), and surface solid material. Actual laboratory tests of the amphibious sonde prototype are also presented.

Advanced mobile satellite communications using COMETS satellite in MM-wave and Ka-band

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ohmori, Shingo; Isobe, Shunkichi; Takeuchi, Makoto; Naito, Hideyuki

1993-01-01

Early in the 21st century, the demand for personal communications using mobile, hand-held, and VSAT terminals will rapidly increase. In a future system, many different types of services should be provided with one-hop connection. The Communications Research Laboratory (CRL) has studied a future advanced mobile satellite communications system using millimeter wave and Ka band. In 1990, CRL started the Communications and Broadcasting Engineering Test Satellite (COMETS) project. The satellite has been developed in conjunction with NASDA and will be launched in 1997. This paper describes the COMETS payload configuration and the experimental system for the advanced mobile communications mission.

Web life: Just A Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2010-04-01

After a few months of physics videos, amateur science sites and educational games, the website we are highlighting in this month's column is a straightforward blog. Just A Theory was started in 2008 by freelance science journalist Jacob Aron while he was studying for a Master's degree in science communication at Imperial College London. The blog's title, Aron explains, reflects a popular misconception that scientific theories are "dreamed up by mad scientists in laboratories somewhere" rather than well-crafted explanations based on observations and experiments. To combat this impression, the site aims to highlight good and bad science coverage in the mainstream media, and to provide original commentary on current scientific events.

Novel hybrid technology for early diagnostics of sepsis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saknite, Inga; Grabovskis, Andris; Kazune, Sigita; Rubins, Uldis; Marcinkevics, Zbignevs; Volceka, Karina; Kviesis-Kipge, Edgars; Spigulis, Janis

2017-02-01

Sepsis is a potentially fatal disease with mortality rate as high as 50% in patients with septic shock; mortality rate can increase by 7.6% per hour if appropriate treatment is not started. Internationally accepted guidelines for diagnosis of sepsis rely on vital sign monitoring and laboratory tests in order to recognize organ failure. This pilot study aims to explore the potential of hyperspectral and thermal imaging techniques to identify and quantify early alterations in skin oxygenation and perfusion induced by sepsis. The study comprises both physiological model experiments on healthy volunteers in a laboratory environment, as well as screening case series of patients with septic shock in the intensive care department. Hyperspectral imaging is used to determine one of the main characteristic visual signs of skin oxygenation abnormalities - skin mottling, whereas changes in peripheral perfusion have been visualized by thermal imaging as heterogeneous skin temperature areas. In order to mimic septic skin mottling in a reproducible way in laboratory environment, arterial occlusion provocation test was utilized on healthy volunteers. Visualization of oxygen saturation by hyperspectral imaging allows diagnosing microcirculatory alterations induced by sepsis earlier than visual assessment of mottling. Thermal images of sepsis patients in the clinic clearly reveal hotspots produced by perforating arteries, as well as cold regions of low blood supply. The results of this pilot study show that thermal imaging in combination with hyperspectral imaging allows the determination of oxygen supply and utilization in critically ill septic patients.

Effect of Stress and Bupropion on Craving, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Mood in Smokers

PubMed Central

Drone, David; Thuras, Paul; Hatsukami, Dorothy K.; Brauer, Lisa; Adson, David E.; al’Absi, Mustafa

2011-01-01

Introduction: Studies suggest that in smokers attempting to quit smoking, the occurrence of stressful events is associated with smoking relapse. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of bupropion (an agent known to increase smoking cessation rates) on the craving, withdrawal, and mood response to stressful tasks administered in a laboratory setting. Methods: Response to three tasks (a speech, math, and cold pressor task) was measured in 65 smokers during ad libitum smoking. Smokers were then randomized to either bupropion or placebo. Fourteen days after starting medication, 43 subjects (28 receiving bupropion and 15 receiving placebo) quit smoking and laboratory procedures were repeated on the third day of abstinence. Results: Prior to cessation, stressors presented in a laboratory setting increased craving, nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and subjective distress but decreased positive affect. Thirty minutes of relaxation after the stressors did not result in these measures returning to prestress levels. During the nicotine withdrawal period, stress-induced responses were generally smaller than during the precessation period. Bupropion (relative to placebo) reduced overall levels of craving and withdrawal symptoms but did not have significant effects on response to stress during the nicotine withdrawal period. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that stress results in sustained increases in craving and withdrawal symptoms and changes in mood symptoms and that bupropion affects overall levels of these symptoms. Further research is needed to determine if modifying response to stress is predictive of an effective treatment for facilitating smoking cessation. PMID:21378081

Rationale and Roadmap for Moon Exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foing, B. H.; ILEWG Team

We discuss the different rationale for Moon exploration. This starts with areas of scientific investigations: clues on the formation and evolution of rocky planets, accretion and bombardment in the inner solar system, comparative planetology processes (tectonic, volcanic, impact cratering, volatile delivery), records astrobiology, survival of organics; past, present and future life. The rationale includes also the advancement of instrumentation: Remote sensing miniaturised instruments; Surface geophysical and geochemistry package; Instrument deployment and robotic arm, nano-rover, sampling, drilling; Sample finder and collector. There are technologies in robotic and human exploration that are a drive for the creativity and economical competitivity of our industries: Mecha-electronics-sensors; Tele control, telepresence, virtual reality; Regional mobility rover; Autonomy and Navigation; Artificially intelligent robots, Complex systems, Man-Machine interface and performances. Moon-Mars Exploration can inspire solutions to global Earth sustained development: In-Situ Utilisation of resources; Establishment of permanent robotic infrastructures, Environmental protection aspects; Life sciences laboratories; Support to human exploration. We also report on the IAA Cosmic Study on Next Steps In Exploring Deep Space, and ongoing IAA Cosmic Studies, ILEWG/IMEWG ongoing activities, and we finally discuss possible roadmaps for robotic and human exploration, starting with the Moon-Mars missions for the coming decade, and building effectively on joint technology developments.

Stardust Blazes MOA Trail

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faris, Grant B.; Bryant, Larry W.

2010-01-01

Mission Operations Assurance (MOA) started at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) with the Magellan and Galileo missions of the late 80's. It continued to develop and received a significant impetus with the failures of two successive missions to Mars in the late 90's. MOA continued to evolve with each successive project at JPL achieving its current maturity with the Stardust sample return to Earth.

Biomedical Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-04-01

distribution unlimited. United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory Fort Rucker, Alabama 36362-0577 Qualified recuesters Qualified requesters may...FUNDING NUMBER5 I PROGRAM zfJECT TASK WORK UNIT ELEMENT NO. NO. ACCESSION NO. 62787A 30162787A87$ EA 138 Biomedical Imaging 12. PERSONAL AUTHOR(S...times larger. Usually they are expensive with commercially available units starting at around $100,000. Triangulation sensors are capable of range

Virtual Chemistry Laboratory: Effect of Constructivist Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tatli, Zeynep; Ayas, Alipasa

2012-01-01

The lab applications, which were started to be applied through mid 19th century, not only provide a new point of view but also bring about a new dimension to the lessons. At early times they were used to prove theoretical knowledge but lately they turned into environments where students freely discover knowledge as an individual or in groups. The…

116. ARAI Details of hot cell section of building ARA626. ...

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

116. ARA-I Details of hot cell section of building ARA-626. Shows manipulator openings in operating face of hot cell, start/stop buttons, and other details. Norman Engineering Company 961/area/SF-626-E-6. Date: January 1959. Ineel index code no. 068-0626-10-613-102731. - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Army Reactors Experimental Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Robert Blumenthal: More than 40 Years at FNL | Poster

Cancer.gov

By Carolynne Keenan, Guest Writer Robert Blumenthal, Ph.D., is a nanotechnology and cell membrane expert at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNL)—just as you would imagine someone with more than 40 years of experience in biomedical research would be. Blumenthal started his career as a principal investigator (PI) at NCI in Bethesda, but since 1997, he has

FTIR Determination of Pollutants in Automobile Exhaust: An Environmental Chemistry Experiment Comparing Cold-Start and Warm-Engine Conditions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Medhurst, Laura L.

2005-01-01

An experiment developed from the Advanced Integrated Environmental Laboratory illustrates the differences in automobile exhaust before and after the engine is warmed, using gas-phase Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The apparatus consists of an Avatar 360 FTIR spectrometer from Nicolet fitted with a variable path length gas cell,…

Sandia National Laboratories: Careers: Work-Life Balance

Science.gov Websites

time matters - that's why Sandia is flexible in many ways. Sandia encourages employees to have a or other remote locations when business needs allow. Part-time work. Move from full-time to part-time transitions. Time away from work Vacation. Start accruing at a rate of three weeks per year, and watch your

Rovers Pave the Way for Hospital Robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2013-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory provided funding for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to develop capabilities for robotics like Rocky 7. After developing the operating system, Daniel Theobald started working at Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Vecna Technologies. Today, Vecna's QC Bot incorporates systems based on the NASA work and is being used to ease logistics at hospitals. The technology has contributed to 20 new jobs.

Proteogenomic Analysis of Polymorphisms and Gene Annotation Divergences in Prokaryotes using a Clustered Mass Spectrometry-Friendly Database*

PubMed Central

de Souza, Gustavo A.; Arntzen, Magnus Ø.; Fortuin, Suereta; Schürch, Anita C.; Målen, Hiwa; McEvoy, Christopher R. E.; van Soolingen, Dick; Thiede, Bernd; Warren, Robin M.; Wiker, Harald G.

2011-01-01

Precise annotation of genes or open reading frames is still a difficult task that results in divergence even for data generated from the same genomic sequence. This has an impact in further proteomic studies, and also compromises the characterization of clinical isolates with many specific genetic variations that may not be represented in the selected database. We recently developed software called multistrain mass spectrometry prokaryotic database builder (MSMSpdbb) that can merge protein databases from several sources and be applied on any prokaryotic organism, in a proteomic-friendly approach. We generated a database for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (using three strains of Mycobacterium bovis and five of M. tuberculosis), and analyzed data collected from two laboratory strains and two clinical isolates of M. tuberculosis. We identified 2561 proteins, of which 24 were present in M. tuberculosis H37Rv samples, but not annotated in the M. tuberculosis H37Rv genome. We were also able to identify 280 nonsynonymous single amino acid polymorphisms and confirm 367 translational start sites. As a proof of concept we applied the database to whole-genome DNA sequencing data of one of the clinical isolates, which allowed the validation of 116 predicted single amino acid polymorphisms and the annotation of 131 N-terminal start sites. Moreover we identified regions not present in the original M. tuberculosis H37Rv sequence, indicating strain divergence or errors in the reference sequence. In conclusion, we demonstrated the potential of using a merged database to better characterize laboratory or clinical bacterial strains. PMID:21030493

ISO 15189 accreditation: Requirements for quality and competence of medical laboratories, experience of a laboratory I.

PubMed

Guzel, Omer; Guner, Ebru Ilhan

2009-03-01

Medical laboratories are the key partners in patient safety. Laboratory results influence 70% of medical diagnoses. Quality of laboratory service is the major factor which directly affects the quality of health care. The clinical laboratory as a whole has to provide the best patient care promoting excellence. International Standard ISO 15189, based upon ISO 17025 and ISO 9001 standards, provides requirements for competence and quality of medical laboratories. Accredited medical laboratories enhance credibility and competency of their testing services. Our group of laboratories, one of the leading institutions in the area, had previous experience with ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 Accreditation at non-medical sections. We started to prepared for ISO 15189 Accreditation at the beginning of 2006 and were certified in March, 2007. We spent more than a year to prepare for accreditation. Accreditation scopes of our laboratory were as follows: clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, allergology, microbiology, parasitology, molecular biology of infection serology and transfusion medicine. The total number of accredited tests is 531. We participate in five different PT programs. Inter Laboratory Comparison (ILC) protocols are performed with reputable laboratories. 82 different PT Program modules, 277 cycles per year for 451 tests and 72 ILC program organizations for remaining tests have been performed. Our laboratory also organizes a PT program for flow cytometry. 22 laboratories participate in this program, 2 cycles per year. Our laboratory has had its own custom made WEB based LIS system since 2001. We serve more than 500 customers on a real time basis. Our quality management system is also documented and processed electronically, Document Management System (DMS), via our intranet. Preparatory phase for accreditation, data management, external quality control programs, personnel related issues before, during and after accreditation process are presented. Every laboratory has to concentrate on patient safety issues related to laboratory testing and should perform quality improvement projects.

LABORATORY DIRECTED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. ANNUAL REPORT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY, DECEMBER 1998.

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

OGEKA,G.J.

1998-12-31

In FY 1998, the BNL LDBD Program funded 20 projects, 4 of which were new starts, at a total cost of $2,563,681. The small number of new starts was a consequence of severe financial problems that developed between FY 1997 and 1998. Emphasis was given to complete funding for approved multi-year proposals. Following is a table which lists all of the FY 1998 funded projects and gives a history of funding for each by year. Several of these projects have already experienced varying degrees of success as indicated in the individual Project Program Summaries which follow. A total of 17more » informal publications (abstracts, presentations, BNL reports and workshop papers) were reported and an additional 13 formal (full length) papers were either published, are in press or being prepared for publication. The investigators on five projects have filed for a patent. Seven of the projects reported that proposals/grants had either been funded or were submitted for funding. In conclusion, a significant measure of success is already attributable to the FY 1998 LDBD Program in the short period of time involved. The Laboratory has experienced a significant scientific gain by these achievements.« less

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

Reilly, S.D.; Click, D.R.; Grumbine, S.K.

This is the final report of a three-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The goal of the project was to prepare new catalyst systems, which would perform chemical reactions in an enantioselective manner so as to produce only one of the possible optical isomers of the product molecule. The authors have investigated the use of lanthanide metals bearing both diolate and Schiff-base ligands as catalysts for the enantioselective reduction of prochiral ketones to secondary alcohols. The ligands were prepared from cheap, readily available starting materials, and their synthesis was performed inmore » a ''modular'' manner such that tailoring of specific groups within the ligand could be carried out without repeating the entire synthetic procedure. In addition, they have developed a new ligand system for Group IV and lanthanide-based olefin polymerization catalysts. The ligand system is easily prepared from readily available starting materials and offers the opportunity to rapidly prepare a wide range of closely related ligands that differ only in their substitution patterns at an aromatic ring. When attached to a metal center, the ligand system has the potential to carry out polymerization reactions in a stereocontrolled manner.« less

Sustaining careers of physician-scientists in neonatology and pediatric critical care medicine: formulating supportive departmental policies.

PubMed

Christou, Helen; Dizon, Maria L V; Farrow, Kathryn N; Jadcherla, Sudarshan R; Leeman, Kristen T; Maheshwari, Akhil; Rubin, Lewis P; Stansfield, Brian K; Rowitch, David H

2016-11-01

Understanding mechanisms of childhood disease and development of rational therapeutics are fundamental to progress in pediatric intensive care specialties. However, Division Chiefs and Department Chairs face unique challenges when building effective laboratory-based research programs in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care, owing to high clinical demands necessary to maintain competence as well as financial pressures arising from fund flow models and the current extramural funding climate. Given these factors, the role of institutional support that could facilitate successful transition of promising junior faculty to independent research careers is ever more important. Would standardized guidelines of such support provide greater consistency among institutions? We addressed preliminary questions during a national focus group, a workshop and a survey of junior and senior academicians to solicit recommendations for optimal levels of protected time and resources when starting an independent laboratory. The consensus was that junior faculty should be assigned no more than 8 wk clinical service and should obtain start-up funds of $500K-1M exclusive of a 5-y committed salary support. Senior respondents placed a higher premium on protected time than junior faculty.

Preliminary investigation of flow dynamics during the start-up of a bulb turbine model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coulaud, M.; Fraser, R.; Lemay, J.; Duquesne, P.; Aeschlimann, V.; Deschênes, C.

2016-11-01

Nowadays, the electricity network undergoes more perturbations due to the market demand. Additionally, an increase of the production from alternative resources such as wind or solar also induces important variations on the grid. Hydraulic power plants are used to respond quickly to these variations to stabilize the network. Hydraulic turbines have to face more frequent start-up and stop sequences that might shorten significantly their life time. In this context, an experimental analysis of start-up sequences has been conducted on the bulb turbine model of the BulbT project at the Hydraulic Machines Laboratory (LAMH) of Laval University. Maintaining a constant head, guide vanes are opened from 0 ° to 30 °. Three guide vanes opening speed have been chosen from 5 °/s to 20 °/s. Several repetitions were done for each guide vanes opening speed. During these sequences, synchronous time resolved measurements have been performed. Pressure signals were recorded at the runner inlet and outlet and along the draft tube. Also, 25 pressure measurements and strain measurements were obtained on the runner blades. Time resolved particle image velocimetry were used to evaluate flowrate during start-up for some repetitions. Torque fluctuations at shaft were also monitored. This paper presents the experimental set-up and start-up conditions chosen to simulate a prototype start-up. Transient flowrate methodology is explained and validation measurements are detailed. The preliminary results of global performances and runner pressure measurements are presented.

Launching a Laboratory Testing Process Quality Improvement Toolkit: From the Shared Networks of Colorado Ambulatory Practices and Partners (SNOCAP).

PubMed

Fernald, Douglas; Hamer, Mika; James, Kathy; Tutt, Brandon; West, David

2015-01-01

Family medicine and internal medicine physicians order diagnostic laboratory tests for nearly one-third of patient encounters in an average week, yet among medical errors in primary care, an estimated 15% to 54% are attributed to laboratory testing processes. From a practice improvement perspective, we (1) describe the need for laboratory testing process quality improvements from the perspective of primary care practices, and (2) describe the approaches and resources needed to implement laboratory testing process quality improvements in practice. We applied practice observations, process mapping, and interviews with primary care practices in the Shared Networks of Colorado Ambulatory Practices and Partners (SNOCAP)-affiliated practice-based research networks that field-tested in 2013 a laboratory testing process improvement toolkit. From the data collected in each of the 22 participating practices, common testing quality issues included, but were not limited to, 3 main testing process steps: laboratory test preparation, test tracking, and patient notification. Three overarching qualitative themes emerged: practices readily acknowledge multiple laboratory testing process problems; practices know that they need help addressing the issues; and practices face challenges with finding patient-centered solutions compatible with practice priorities and available resources. While practices were able to get started with guidance and a toolkit to improve laboratory testing processes, most did not seem able to achieve their quality improvement aims unassisted. Providing specific guidance tools with practice facilitation or other rapid-cycle quality improvement support may be an effective approach to improve common laboratory testing issues in primary care. © Copyright 2015 by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Cohort Profile Update: The Amirkola Health and Ageing Project (AHAP).

PubMed

Bijani, Ali; Ghadimi, Reza; Mikaniki, Ebrahim; Kheirkhah, Farzan; Mozaffarpur, Seyyed Ali; Motallebnejad, Mina; Esmaili, Haleh; Majidi, Fatemeh; Cumming, Robert Graham; Hosseini, Seyed Reza

2017-01-01

The original cohort study of AHAP started in 2011 on 1616 elderly residents of Amirkola, northern part of Iran near the Caspian Sea. The main goal of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the health of the elderly in the region with the emphasis on chronic diseases such as osteoporosis. The first cohort profile was published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in 2014. The phase 1 AHAP showed the elevated level of some diseases and conditions including osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, obesity, vision problems and relatively low levels of oral health. Therefore, the second phase of this cohort started with more complete population coverage in 2016, not only to collect and record the information based on previous protocol, but also consider new areas such as nutritional status, complete eye and dental examinations and health assessment on the basis of Iranian Traditional Medicine. The new aspect of this project is to conduct clinical and laboratory examinations at the health center to extend more facilities to the elderly. In addition to serum and DNA, samples of saliva, hair and nails are collected and kept under standard conditions in the biobank of this cohort. Researchers can apply for access to data or suggest a collaborative study by submitting the proposal to AHAP committee.

Cohort Profile Update: The Amirkola Health and Ageing Project (AHAP)

PubMed Central

Bijani, Ali; Ghadimi, Reza; Mikaniki, Ebrahim; Kheirkhah, Farzan; Mozaffarpur, Seyyed Ali; Motallebnejad, Mina; Esmaili, Haleh; Majidi, Fatemeh; Cumming, Robert Graham; Hosseini, Seyed Reza

2017-01-01

The original cohort study of AHAP started in 2011 on 1616 elderly residents of Amirkola, northern part of Iran near the Caspian Sea. The main goal of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the health of the elderly in the region with the emphasis on chronic diseases such as osteoporosis. The first cohort profile was published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in 2014. The phase 1 AHAP showed the elevated level of some diseases and conditions including osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, obesity, vision problems and relatively low levels of oral health. Therefore, the second phase of this cohort started with more complete population coverage in 2016, not only to collect and record the information based on previous protocol, but also consider new areas such as nutritional status, complete eye and dental examinations and health assessment on the basis of Iranian Traditional Medicine. The new aspect of this project is to conduct clinical and laboratory examinations at the health center to extend more facilities to the elderly. In addition to serum and DNA, samples of saliva, hair and nails are collected and kept under standard conditions in the biobank of this cohort. Researchers can apply for access to data or suggest a collaborative study by submitting the proposal to AHAP committee. PMID:28932373

Crop residue decomposition in Minnesota biochar amended plots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weyers, S. L.; Spokas, K. A.

2014-02-01

Impacts of biochar application at laboratory scales are routinely studied, but impacts of biochar application on decomposition of crop residues at field scales have not been widely addressed. The priming or hindrance of crop residue decomposition could have a cascading impact on soil processes, particularly those influencing nutrient availability. Our objectives were to evaluate biochar effects on field decomposition of crop residue, using plots that were amended with biochars made from different feedstocks and pyrolysis platforms prior to the start of this study. Litterbags containing wheat straw material were buried below the soil surface in a continuous-corn cropped field in plots that had received one of seven different biochar amendments or a non-charred wood pellet amendment 2.5 yr prior to start of this study. Litterbags were collected over the course of 14 weeks. Microbial biomass was assessed in treatment plots the previous fall. Though first-order decomposition rate constants were positively correlated to microbial biomass, neither parameter was statistically affected by biochar or wood-pellet treatments. The findings indicated only a residual of potentially positive and negative initial impacts of biochars on residue decomposition, which fit in line with established feedstock and pyrolysis influences. Though no significant impacts were observed with field-weathered biochars, effective soil management may yet have to account for repeat applications of biochar.

Aluminum Fixed Point: Impact of the Time Spent in the Liquid Phase on the Liquid-Solid Transition and Obviousness of the Pollution of the Ingot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renaot, E.; Martin, C.

2011-08-01

In order to improve the uncertainty on the aluminum fixed point, a study was launched by Laboratoire Commun de Métrologie LNE-CNAM in the frame of the EURAMET Project 732 "Toward more accurate temperature fixed points" (coordinating laboratory: France, 17 partner countries). An earlier study completed in this laboratory showed that in regular realization of the melting-freezing plateaus, there is no diffusion of impurities in the thickness of the ingot, or the diffusion is excessively slow and cannot allow a uniform distribution of the impurities. On the other hand, it is frequently noticed that the experimental conditions before the freezing plateau have an impact on its characteristics (value, slope,…). Up to now, no systematic study was performed on the influence of this parameter. So, the objective of the task started recently in this laboratory is to investigate the influence of the time spent in the liquid phase on the phase transition. As a final result, it is demonstrated that in order to reach the equilibrium of the concentration of impurities, it is necessary to ensure that the metal remains in the liquid phase at least 24 h before initiating the freeze. At the end of the process, the aluminum ingot was chemically analyzed. The analyses reveal large contaminations of the surface of the ingot (sodium, sulfur, and phosphorus). One of the important outputs of this study is that the conditions of usage of the cells should be given important attention since large contaminations can be brought by the furnace.

Fecal Calprotectin Test Performed at Home: A Prospective Study of Pediatric Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

PubMed

Piekkala, Maija; Alfthan, Henrik; Merras-Salmio, Laura; Puustinen Wikström, Anne; Heiskanen, Kaarina; Jaakkola, Tytti; Klemetti, Paula; Md, Martti Färkkilä; Kolho, Kaija-Leena

2018-06-01

Measuring fecal calprotectin (FC) in a laboratory is time-consuming and that is why home tests have been developed. We studied the use of an FC home test in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) in real-life settings. The patients were asked to perform the IBDoc FC home test monthly for 6 months and to report their clinical disease activity at testing. Clinical decision-making, however, was guided by routine FC enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for patients with raised IBDoc values. Spare frozen samples were analyzed using ELISA and IBDoc in the laboratory. The participants completed a questionnaire about FC testing at the start and end of the study. Of the 52 patients, 35 (67%) ages 5 to 18 years completed the study, and 197 home tests were performed. Of these, 15% failed, mainly because of technical reasons. Just under half of the patients (47%) considered home testing comparable or superior to routine testing. In contrast, the parents were unsatisfied (61%), mostly because the IBDoc results were significantly different from ELISA and they found the phone application difficult to handle but whenever the IBDoc was performed by a laboratory professional it was comparable with ELISA, suggesting that practical issues hampered home testing. Despite their reservations, more than 80% of parents felt that home testing would improve disease management. PIBD patients and their families were interested in FC home monitoring and willing to adopt testing as a part of their disease management, but this approach requires thorough guidance.

Prevalidation of the ex-vivo model PCLS for prediction of respiratory toxicity.

PubMed

Hess, A; Wang-Lauenstein, L; Braun, A; Kolle, S N; Landsiedel, R; Liebsch, M; Ma-Hock, L; Pirow, R; Schneider, X; Steinfath, M; Vogel, S; Martin, C; Sewald, K

2016-04-01

In acute inhalation toxicity studies, animals inhale substances at given concentrations. Without additional information, however, appropriate starting concentrations for in-vivo inhalation studies are difficult to estimate. The goal of this project was the prevalidation of precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) as an ex-vivo alternative to reduce the number of animals used in inhalation toxicity studies. According to internationally agreed principles for Prevalidation Studies, the project was conducted in three independent laboratories. The German BfR provided consultancy in validation principles and independent support with biostatistics. In all laboratories, rat PCLS were prepared and exposed to 5 concentrations of 20 industrial chemicals under submerged culture conditions for 1h. After 23 h post-incubation, toxicity was assessed by measurement of released lactate dehydrogenase and mitochondrial activity. In addition, protein content and pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1α were measured. For all endpoints IC50 values were calculated if feasible. For each endpoint test acceptance criteria were established. This report provides the final results for all 20 chemicals. More than 900 concentration-response curves were analyzed. Log10[IC50 (μM)], obtained for all assay endpoints, showed best intra- and inter-laboratory consistency for the data obtained by WST-1 and BCA assays. While WST-1 and LDH indicated toxic effects for the majority of substances, only some of the substances induced an increase in extracellular IL-1α. Two prediction models (two-group classification model, prediction of LC50 by IC50) were developed and showed promising results. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Data mining of routine laboratory tests can predict liver disease progression in Egyptian diabetic patients with hepatitis C virus (G4) infection: a cohort study of 71 806 patients.

PubMed

Saad, Yasmin; Awad, Abobakr; Alakel, Wafaa; Doss, Wahid; Awad, Tahany; Mabrouk, Mahasen

2018-02-01

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are prevalent diseases worldwide, associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and mutual association. The aims of this study were as follows: (i) find the prevalence of DM among 71 806 Egyptian patients with chronic HCV infection and its effect on liver disease progression and (ii) using data mining of routine tests to predict hepatic fibrosis in diabetic patients with HCV infection. A retrospective multicentered study included laboratory and histopathological data of 71 806 patients with HCV infection collected by Egyptian National Committee for control of viral hepatitis. Using data mining analysis, we constructed decision tree algorithm to assess predictors of fibrosis progression in diabetic patients with HCV. Overall, 12 018 (16.8%) patients were diagnosed as having diabetes [6428: fasting blood glucose ≥126 mg/dl (9%) and 5590: fasting blood glucose ≥110-126 mg/dl (7.8%)]. DM was significantly associated with advanced age, high BMI and α-fetoprotein (AFP), and low platelets and serum albumin (P≤0.001). Advanced liver fibrosis (F3-F4) was significantly correlated with DM (P≤0.001) irrespective of age. Of 16 attributes, decision tree model for fibrosis showed AFP was most decisive with cutoff of 5.25 ng/ml as starting point of fibrosis. AFP level greater than cutoff in patients was the first important splitting attribute; age and platelet count were second important splitting attributes. (i) Chronic HCV is significantly associated with DM (16.8%). (ii) Advanced age, high BMI and AFP, low platelets count and albumin show significant association with DM in HCV. (iii) AFP cutoff of 5.25 is a starting point of fibrosis development and integrated into mathematical model to predict development of liver fibrosis in diabetics with HCV (G4) infection.

Round robin test on the measurement of the specific heat of solar salt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muñoz-Sánchez, Belén; Nieto-Maestre, Javier; González-Aguilar, José; Julia, José Enrique; Navarrete, Nuria; Faik, Abdessamad; Bauer, Thomas; Bonk, Alexander; Navarro, María Elena; Ding, Yulong; Uranga, Nerea; Veca, Elisabetta; Sau, Salvatore; Giménez, Pau; García, Pierre; Burgaleta, Juan Ignacio

2017-06-01

Solar salt (SS), a well-known non-eutectic mixture of sodium nitrate (60% w/w) and potassium nitrate (40% w/w), is commonly used either as Thermal Energy Storage (TES) material (double tank technology) or Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) (solar tower) in modern CSP plants worldwide. The specific heat (cp, kJ kg-1 °C-1) of SS is a very important property in order to support the design of new CSP Plants or develop novel materials based on SS. A high scientific effort has been dedicated to perform a suitable thermophysical characterization of this material. However, there is still a great discrepancy among the cp values reported by different authors1. These differences may be due to either experimental errors (random or systematic) or divergences in the starting material (grade of purity, presence of impurities and/or water). In order to avoid the second source of uncertainty (the starting material), a Round Robin Test (RRT) was proposed starting from a common material. In this way, the different methods from each laboratory could be compared. The study should lay the foundations for the establishment of a systematic procedure for the measurement of the specific heat of this kind of materials. Nine institutions, research centers and companies, accepted the proposal and are contributing with their results. The initiative was organized within the Workshop SolarPACES Task III - Material activity.

Transient Approximation of SAFE-100 Heat Pipe Operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bragg-Sitton, Shannon M.; Reid, Robert S.

2005-01-01

Engineers at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) have designed several heat pipe cooled reactor concepts, ranging in power from 15 kWt to 800 kWt, for both surface power systems and nuclear electric propulsion systems. The Safe, Affordable Fission Engine (SAFE) is now being developed in a collaborative effort between LANL and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (NASA/MSFC). NASA is responsible for fabrication and testing of non-nuclear, electrically heated modules in the Early Flight Fission Test Facility (EFF-TF) at MSFC. In-core heat pipes must be properly thawed as the reactor power starts. Computational models have been developed to assess the expected operation of a specific heat pipe design during start-up, steady state operation, and shutdown. While computationally intensive codes provide complete, detailed analyses of heat pipe thaw, a relatively simple. concise routine can also be applied to approximate the response of a heat pipe to changes in the evaporator heat transfer rate during start-up and power transients (e.g., modification of reactor power level) with reasonably accurate results. This paper describes a simplified model of heat pipe start-up that extends previous work and compares the results to experimental measurements for a SAFE-100 type heat pipe design.

Commercial-scale recycling of NdFeB-type magnets with grain boundary modification yields products with 'designer properties' that exceed those of starting materials.

PubMed

Zakotnik, M; Tudor, C O

2015-10-01

NdFeB-type magnets dominate the market for high performance magnetic materials, yet production of 'virgin' magnets via mining is environmentally, financially and energetically costly. Hence, interest is growing in 'magnet to magnet' recycling schemes that offer the potential for cheaper, more environmentally-friendly solutions to the world's growing appetite for rare-earth based magnetic materials. Unfortunately, previously described recycling processes only partially capitalise on this potential, because the methods described to date are limited to 'laboratory scale' or operate only under ideal conditions and result in products that fail to recapture the coercivity of the starting, scrap materials. Herein, we report a commercial scale process (120 kg batches) that completely recovers the properties of the starting scrap magnets. Indeed, 'grain boundary modification', via careful addition of a proprietary mix of blended elements, produces magnets with 'designer properties' that can exceed those of the starting materials and can be closely tailored to meet a wide variety of end-user applications, including high-coercivity (>2000 kA/m), sintered magnets suitable for motor applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A National Residue Control Plan from the analytical perspective--the Brazilian case.

PubMed

Mauricio, Angelo de Q; Lins, Erick S; Alvarenga, Marcelo B

2009-04-01

Food safety is a strategic topic entailing not only national public health aspects but also competitiveness in international trade. An important component of any food safety program is the control and monitoring of residues posed by certain substances involved in food production. In turn, a National Residue Control Plan (NRCP) relies on an appropriate laboratory network, not only to generate analytical results, but also more broadly to verify and co-validate the controls built along the food production chain. Therefore laboratories operating under a NRCP should work in close cooperation with inspection bodies, fostering the critical alignment of the whole system with the principles of risk analysis. Beyond producing technically valid results, these laboratories should arguably be able to assist in the prediction and establishment of targets for official control. In pursuit of analytical excellence, the Brazilian government has developed a strategic plan for Official Agricultural Laboratories. Inserted in a national agenda for agricultural risk analysis, the plan has succeeded in raising laboratory budget by approximately 200%, it has started a rigorous program for personnel capacity-building, it has initiated strategic cooperation with international reference centres, and finally, it has completely renewed instrumental resources and rapidly triggered a program aimed at full laboratory compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

From genes to proteins to behavior: a laboratory project that enhances student understanding in cell and molecular biology.

PubMed

Aronson, Benjamin D; Silveira, Linda A

2009-01-01

In the laboratory, students can actively explore concepts and experience the nature of scientific research. We have devised a 5-wk laboratory project in our introductory college biology course whose aim was to improve understanding in five major concepts that are central to basic cellular, molecular biology, and genetics while teaching molecular biology techniques. The project was focused on the production of adenine in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and investigated the nature of mutant red colonies of this yeast. Students created red mutants from a wild-type strain, amplified the two genes capable of giving rise to the red phenotype, and then analyzed the nucleotide sequences. A quiz assessing student understanding in the five areas was given at the start and the end of the course. Analysis of the quiz showed significant improvement in each of the areas. These areas were taught in the laboratory and the classroom; therefore, students were surveyed to determine whether the laboratory played a role in their improved understanding of the five areas. Student survey data demonstrated that the laboratory did have an important role in their learning of the concepts. This project simulated steps in a research project and could be adapted for an advanced course in genetics.

Evaluation of the Cepheid Xpert MTB/RIF assay

PubMed Central

Shinnick, Thomas M; Starks, Angela M; Alexander, Heather L; Castro, Kenneth G

2018-01-01

The lack of capacity to provide laboratory confirmation of a diagnosis of tuberculosis disease (TB) is contributing to enormous gaps in the ability to find, treat and follow TB patients. WHO estimates that globally only about 57% of the notified new cases of pulmonary TB in 2012 and about 19% of rifampicin-resistant TB cases were laboratory confirmed. The Cepheid Xpert® MTB/RIF assay has been credited with revolutionizing laboratory testing to aid in the diagnosis of TB and rifampicin-resistant TB. This semi-automated test can detect both the causative agent of TB and mutations that confer rifampicin resistance from clinical specimens within 2 h after starting the test. In this article, we review the performance of the test, its pathway to regulatory approval and endorsement, guidelines for its use and lessons learned from the implementation of the test in low-burden, high-resource countries and in high-burden, low-resource countries. PMID:25373876

Quality management for the international transport of laboratory animals.

PubMed

Leary, Steven L

2008-01-01

Increased collaboration between investigators at different institutions has increased the number of laboratory animals being transported. The current system of laws and regulations governing animal shipments is inconsistent and government agencies often have areas of overlapping regulatory management. Furthermore, the lack of industry-wide shipping standards and good practices contributes to confusion among those responsible for shipment. One answer to these quality control issues would be the establishment of independent, industry-regulated 'good practices' for animal transport, similar to those used in laboratories for experimental design. These good practices could be based on the existing International Air Transport Association Live Animals Regulations, with contributions from representatives of the specialties involved. Additionally, quality control under the current system of patchwork regulations could be improved if each institution, both academic and commercial, would designate a single point of contact to follow each shipment from start to finish.

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in the clinical mycology laboratory: identification of fungi and beyond.

PubMed

Posteraro, Brunella; De Carolis, Elena; Vella, Antonietta; Sanguinetti, Maurizio

2013-04-01

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS) is becoming essential in most clinical microbiology laboratories throughout the world. Its successful use is mainly attributable to the low operational costs, the universality and flexibility of detection, as well as the specificity and speed of analysis. Based on characteristic protein spectra obtained from intact cells - by means of simple, rapid and reproducible preanalytical and analytical protocols - MALDI-TOF MS allows a highly discriminatory identification of yeasts and filamentous fungi starting from colonies. Whenever used early, direct identification of yeasts from positive blood cultures has the potential to greatly shorten turnaround times and to improve laboratory diagnosis of fungemia. More recently, but still at an infancy stage, MALDI-TOF MS is used to perform strain typing and to determine antifungal drug susceptibility. In this article, the authors discuss how the MALDI-TOF MS technology is destined to become a powerful tool for routine mycological diagnostics.

Characteristics of sludge developed under different loading conditions during UASB reactor start-up and granulation.

PubMed

Ghangrekar, M M; Asolekar, S R; Joshi, S G

2005-03-01

Sludge characteristics available inside the reactor are of vital importance to maximize advantages of UASB reactor. The organic loading rate and sludge loading rate applied during start-up are among the important parameters to govern the sludge characteristics. Effects of these loading rates on the characteristics of the sludge developed are evaluated in six laboratory scale UASB reactors. The sludge characteristics considered are VSS/SS ratio of the sludge, sludge volume index, specific gravity, settling velocity and metal contents of the sludge developed under different loading rates. The experimental results indicate that, for developing good characteristics sludge, during primary start-up from flocculent inoculum sludge, organic loading rate and sludge loading rate should be in the range of 2.0-4.5 kg COD/m3 d and 0.1-0.25 kg COD/kg VSS d, respectively (chemical oxygen demand, COD). Proper sludge granulation and higher COD removal efficiency will be achieved by these loading rates.

FIRST experiment: Fragmentation of Ions Relevant for Space and Therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agodi, C.; Abou-Haidar, Z.; Alvarez, M. A. G.; Aumann, T.; Balestra, F.; Battistoni, G.; Bocci, A.; Bohlen, T. T.; Bondì, M.; Boudard, A.; Brunetti, A.; Carpinelli, M.; Cappuzzello, F.; Cavallaro, M.; Carbone, D.; Cirrone, G. A. P.; Cortes-Giraldo, M. A.; Cuttone, G.; De Napoli, M.; Durante, M.; Fernandez-Garcia, J. P.; Finck, C.; Foti, A.; Gallardo, M. I.; Golosio, B.; Iarocci, E.; Iazzi, F.; Ickert, G.; Introzzi, R.; Juliani, D.; Krimmer, J.; Kurz, N.; Labalme, M.; Lavagno, A.; Leifels, Y.; Le Fevre, A.; Leray, S.; Marchetto, F.; Monaco, V.; Morone, M. C.; Nicolosi, D.; Oliva, P.; Paoloni, A.; Patera, V.; Piersanti, L.; Pleskac, R.; Quesada, J. M.; Randazzo, N.; Romano, F.; Rossi, D.; Rosso, V.; Rousseau, M.; Sacchi, R.; Sala, P.; Sarti, A.; Scheidenberger, C.; Schuy, C.; Sciubba, A.; Sfienti, C.; Simon, H.; Sipala, V.; Spiriti, E.; Stuttge, L.; Tropea, S.; Younis, H.

2013-03-01

Nuclear fragmentation processes are relevant in different fields of basic research and applied physics and are of particular interest for tumor therapy and for space radiation protection applications. The FIRST (Fragmentation of Ions Relevant for Space and Therapy) experiment at SIS accelerator of GSI laboratory in Darmstadt, has been designed for the measurement of different ions fragmentation cross sections at different energies between 100 and 1000 MeV/nucleon. The experiment is performed by an international collaboration made of institutions from Germany, France, Italy and Spain. The experimental apparatus is partly based on an already existing setup made of the ALADIN magnet, the MUSIC IV TPC, the LAND2 neutron detector and the TOFWALL scintillator TOF system, integrated with newly designed detectors in the interaction Region (IR) around the carbon removable target: a scintillator Start Counter, a Beam Monitor drift chamber, a silicon Vertex Detector and a Proton Tagger for detection of light fragments emitted at large angles (KENTROS). The scientific program of the FIRST experiment started on summer 2011 with the study of the 400 MeV/nucleon 12C beam fragmentation on thin (8mm) carbon target.

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

Morales, M.; Revah, S.; Auria, R.

Biotechnological techniques, including biofilters and biotrickling filters are increasingly used to treat air polluted with VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). In this work, the start-up, the effect of the gaseous ammonia addition on the toluene removal rate, and the problems of the heat accumulation on the performance of a laboratory scale biofilter were studied. The packing material was sterilized peat enriched with a mineral medium and inoculated with an adapted consortium (two yeast and five bacteria). Start-up showed a short adaptation period and an increased toluene elimination capacity (EC) up to a maximum of 190 g/m{sup 3}/h. This was related tomore » increased CO{sub 2} outlet concentration and temperature gradients between the packed bed and the inlet (Tm-Tin). These events were associated with the growth of the microbial population. The biofilter EC decreased thereafter, to attain a steady state of 8 g/m{sup 3}/h. At this point, gaseous ammonia was added. EC increased up to 80 g/m{sup 3}/h, with simultaneous increases on the CO{sub 2} concentration and (Tm-Tin).« less

End-effects-regime in full scale and lab scale rocket nozzles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rojo, Raymundo; Tinney, Charles; Baars, Woutijn; Ruf, Joseph

2014-11-01

Modern rockets utilize a thrust-optimized parabolic-contour design for their nozzles for its high performance and reliability. However, the evolving internal flow structures within these high area ratio rocket nozzles during start up generate a powerful amount of vibro-acoustic loads that act on the launch vehicle. Modern rockets must be designed to accommodate for these heavy loads or else risk a catastrophic failure. This study quantifies a particular moment referred to as the ``end-effects regime,'' or the largest source of vibro-acoustic loading during start-up [Nave & Coffey, AIAA Paper 1973-1284]. Measurements from full scale ignitions are compared with aerodynamically scaled representations in a fully anechoic chamber. Laboratory scale data is then matched with both static and dynamic wall pressure measurements to capture the associating shock structures within the nozzle. The event generated during the ``end-effects regime'' was successfully reproduced in the both the lab-scale models, and was characterized in terms of its mean, variance and skewness, as well as the spectral properties of the signal obtained by way of time-frequency analyses.

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

Gorlov, A.M.

This report contains conclusive results of the research project entitled ``Further Development of the Pneumatic Method to Harness Hydropower and its Experimental Implementation in the State of Maine`` sponsored by the US Department of Energy (Contract DE-FG02-91ER12113). The results obtained by this research are considerably beyond the original goals anticipated by the contract which were a theoretical study of the method only and its possible applications. In fact, the success of the analytical research program has allowed us to move on to development, construction and testing of a physical model of the hydro-air power converter and, subsequently, to development ofmore » a well equipped hydro-pneumatic power laboratory at Northeastern University. Photographs la and 2a show both the laboratory and the model. Good performance of the model proves that the hydro-pneumatic concept holds much promise for development of an ecologically safe and commercially attractive novel approach to harnessing ultra low-head hydropower. As a result, private companies have started to support this new technology, and to invest money in its further development and construction of demonstration power plants (Appendix 1). Visitors at the Northeastern University laboratory often praise this new technique, as is attested by the articles in the Wall Street Journal (Appendix 2) and the Technology Review (Appendix 3).« less

[The 1, 2, 3 of laboratory animal experimentation].

PubMed

Romero-Fernandez, Wilber; Batista-Castro, Zenia; De Lucca, Marisel; Ruano, Ana; García-Barceló, María; Rivera-Cervantes, Marta; García-Rodríguez, Julio; Sánchez-Mateos, Soledad

2016-06-01

The slow scientific development in Latin America in recent decades has delayed the incorporation of laboratory animal experimentation; however, this situation has started to change. Today, extraordinary scientific progress is evident, which has promoted the introduction and increased use of laboratory animals as an important tool for the advancement of biomedical sciences. In the aftermath of this boom, the need to provide the scientific community with training and guidance in all aspects related to animal experimentation has arisen. It is the responsibility of each country to regulate this practice, for both bioethical and legal reasons, to ensure consideration of the animals' rights and welfare. The following manuscript is the result of papers presented at the International Workshop on Laboratory Animal Testing held at the Technical University of Ambato, Ecuador; it contains information regarding the current state of affairs in laboratory animal testing and emphasizes critical aspects such as main species used, ethical and legal principles, and experimental and alternative designs for animal use. These works aim to ensure good practices that should define scientific work. This document will be relevant to both researchers who aim to newly incorporate animal testing into their research and those who seek to update their knowledge.

National Ignition Facility project acquisition plan

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

Callaghan, R.W.

The purpose of this National Ignition Facility Acquisition Plan is to describe the overall procurement strategy planned for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) Project. The scope of the plan describes the procurement activities and acquisition strategy for the following phases of the NIF Project, each of which receives either plant and capital equipment (PACE) or other project cost (OPC) funds: Title 1 and 2 design and Title 3 engineering (PACE); Optics manufacturing facilitization and pilot production (OPC); Convention facility construction (PACE); Procurement, installation, and acceptance testing of equipment (PACE); and Start-up (OPC). Activities that are part of the base Inertialmore » Confinement Fusion (ICF) Program are not included in this plan. The University of California (UC), operating Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Lockheed-Martin, which operates Sandia National Laboratory (SNL) and the University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics (UR-LLE), will conduct the acquisition of needed products and services in support of their assigned responsibilities within the NIF Project structure in accordance with their prime contracts with the Department of Energy (DOE). LLNL, designated as the lead Laboratory, will have responsibility for all procurements required for construction, installation, activation, and startup of the NIF.« less

[Biosafety and biosecurity in the medical laboratory. Update and trends].

PubMed

Ionescu, G; Neguţ, M; Combiescu, A A

2007-01-01

Biosafety includes the protective measures against the risks of contamination with pathogen germs in the laboratories that handle pathogens, or stock or manipulate potentially contaminated products, or perform microbiological tests for medical or scientific research purposes, as well as the means of protecting the environment and the human collectivities against hazard contaminations that have as starting point these laboratories. Besides, lately, a new notion emerged, that of biosecurity, which refers to the sum of measures designed to protect workers, environment and population against the loss, theft, use and release in the environment of pathogenic biological agents. The work overviews the present concerns for the regulation of these two notions and the way in which a system for the management of the biological risks in a laboratory that handles pathogens should be documented and implemented. The need for the continuous professional training of the staff and for the establishment of individual and collective responsibilities for preventing biosafety incidents and trespassing biosecurity rules are as well emphasized. The main biosafety measures are pointed out and a series of considerations regarding biosafety and bioterrorism in correlation with the medical laboratory are as well mentioned.

The testing effect for mediator final test cues and related final test cues in online and laboratory experiments.

PubMed

Coppens, Leonora C; Verkoeijen, Peter P J L; Bouwmeester, Samantha; Rikers, Remy M J P

2016-05-31

The testing effect is the finding that information that is retrieved during learning is more often correctly retrieved on a final test than information that is restudied. According to the semantic mediator hypothesis the testing effect arises because retrieval practice of cue-target pairs (mother-child) activates semantically related mediators (father) more than restudying. Hence, the mediator-target (father-child) association should be stronger for retrieved than restudied pairs. Indeed, Carpenter (2011) found a larger testing effect when participants received mediators (father) than when they received target-related words (birth) as final test cues. The present study started as an attempt to test an alternative account of Carpenter's results. However, it turned into a series of conceptual (Experiment 1) and direct (Experiment 2 and 3) replications conducted with online samples. The results of these online replications were compared with those of similar existing laboratory experiments through small-scale meta-analyses. The results showed that (1) the magnitude of the raw mediator testing effect advantage is comparable for online and laboratory experiments, (2) in both online and laboratory experiments the magnitude of the raw mediator testing effect advantage is smaller than in Carpenter's original experiment, and (3) the testing effect for related cues varies considerably between online experiments. The variability in the testing effect for related cues in online experiments could point toward moderators of the related cue short-term testing effect. The raw mediator testing effect advantage is smaller than in Carpenter's original experiment.

When to Suspect and How to Diagnose Mitochondrial Disorders?

PubMed

Korenev, Sergei; Morris, Andrew A M

2016-10-01

Disorders of the mitochondrial respiratory chain are an exceedingly diverse group. The clinical features can affect any tissue or organ and occur at any age, with any mode of inheritance. The diagnosis of mitochondrial disorders requires knowledge of the clinical phenotypes and access to a wide range of laboratory techniques. A few syndromes are associated with a specific genetic defect and in these cases it is appropriate to proceed directly to an appropriate test of blood or urine. In most cases, however, the best strategy starts with biochemical and histochemical studies on a muscle biopsy. Appropriate molecular genetic studies can then be chosen, based on these results and the clinical picture. Unfortunately, there is currently limited availability of respiratory chain studies in India. Exome sequencing is undertaken increasingly often; without preceding mitochondrial studies, this can lead to misleading results.

Reliability and Validity of Digital Imagery Methodology for Measuring Starting Portions and Plate Waste from School Salad Bars.

PubMed

Bean, Melanie K; Raynor, Hollie A; Thornton, Laura M; Sova, Alexandra; Dunne Stewart, Mary; Mazzeo, Suzanne E

2018-04-12

Scientifically sound methods for investigating dietary consumption patterns from self-serve salad bars are needed to inform school policies and programs. To examine the reliability and validity of digital imagery for determining starting portions and plate waste of self-serve salad bar vegetables (which have variable starting portions) compared with manual weights. In a laboratory setting, 30 mock salads with 73 vegetables were made, and consumption was simulated. Each component (initial and removed portion) was weighed; photographs of weighed reference portions and pre- and post-consumption mock salads were taken. Seven trained independent raters visually assessed images to estimate starting portions to the nearest ¼ cup and percentage consumed in 20% increments. These values were converted to grams for comparison with weighed values. Intraclass correlations between weighed and digital imagery-assessed portions and plate waste were used to assess interrater reliability and validity. Pearson's correlations between weights and digital imagery assessments were also examined. Paired samples t tests were used to evaluate mean differences (in grams) between digital imagery-assessed portions and measured weights. Interrater reliabilities were excellent for starting portions and plate waste with digital imagery. For accuracy, intraclass correlations were moderate, with lower accuracy for determining starting portions of leafy greens compared with other vegetables. However, accuracy of digital imagery-assessed plate waste was excellent. Digital imagery assessments were not significantly different from measured weights for estimating overall vegetable starting portions or waste; however, digital imagery assessments slightly underestimated starting portions (by 3.5 g) and waste (by 2.1 g) of leafy greens. This investigation provides preliminary support for use of digital imagery in estimating starting portions and plate waste from school salad bars. Results might inform methods used in empirical investigations of dietary intake in schools with self-serve salad bars. Copyright © 2018 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fast-starting after a breath: air-breathing motions are kinematically similar to escape responses in the catfish Hoplosternum littorale

PubMed Central

Domenici, Paolo; Norin, Tommy; Bushnell, Peter G.; Johansen, Jacob L.; Skov, Peter Vilhelm; Svendsen, Morten B. S.; Steffensen, John F.; Abe, Augusto S.

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Fast-starts are brief accelerations commonly observed in fish within the context of predator–prey interactions. In typical C-start escape responses, fish react to a threatening stimulus by bending their body into a C-shape during the first muscle contraction (i.e. stage 1) which provides a sudden acceleration away from the stimulus. Recently, similar C-starts have been recorded in fish aiming at a prey. Little is known about C-starts outside the context of predator–prey interactions, though recent work has shown that escape response can also be induced by high temperature. Here, we test the hypothesis that air-breathing fish may use C-starts in the context of gulping air at the surface. Hoplosternum littorale is an air-breathing freshwater catfish found in South America. Field video observations reveal that their air-breathing behaviour consists of air-gulping at the surface, followed by a fast turn which re-directs the fish towards the bottom. Using high-speed video in the laboratory, we compared the kinematics of the turn immediately following air-gulping performed by H. littorale in normoxia with those of mechanically-triggered C-start escape responses and with routine (i.e. spontaneous) turns. Our results show that air-breathing events overlap considerably with escape responses with a large stage 1 angle in terms of turning rates, distance covered and the relationship between these rates. Therefore, these two behaviours can be considered kinematically comparable, suggesting that air-breathing in this species is followed by escape-like C-start motions, presumably to minimise time at the surface and exposure to avian predators. These findings show that C-starts can occur in a variety of contexts in which fish may need to get away from areas of potential danger. PMID:25527644

Glutaric aciduria type I: A treatable neurometabolic disorder.

PubMed

Kamate, Mahesh; Patil, Vishwanath; Chetal, Vivek; Darak, Pavan; Hattiholi, Virupaxi

2012-01-01

Glutaric aciduria Type-I (GA-I) has characteristic clinical and neuroimaging features, which clinches the diagnosis in a majority of patients. However, there have been few case reports on GA-I from India. This study was undertaken to study the clinical presentations, metabolic profile, neuroimaging findings and outcome of patients with GA-I. The present study was a retrospective study. Retrospective review of charts of patients with a diagnosis of GA-I was carried out from March 2008 to April 2010. The clinical, laboratory and neuroimaging findings were extracted in a predesigned proforma and the data was analyzed. Eleven cases were found to have GA-1. Clinical presentation was quite varied. Follow-up of patients revealed that one patient with macrocephaly as the only clinical finding was developmentally normal. One patient with encephalitis-like illness steadily improved and started walking at 2 years. Two patients were bed ridden and had severe dystonia. One patient died during follow-up. The remaining six patients had dystonia and other abnormal movements, but had attained sitting without support and were not ambulatory. GA-I is not an uncommon disorder and diagnosis can be made easily based on clinical, laboratory investigations and neuroimaging findings. It is one of the treatable metabolic disorders and, if managed appropriately, favorable prognosis can be given.

Microbiological study of the Murchison CM2 meteorite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pikuta, Elena V.; Hoover, Richard B.

2012-10-01

In 1864, Louis Pasteur attempted to cultivate living microorganisms from pristine samples of the Orgueil CI1 carbonaceous meteorite. His results were negative and never published, but recorded it in his laboratory notebooks. At that time, only aerobic liquid or agar-based organic reach media were used, as his research on anaerobes had just started. In our laboratory the Murchison CM2 carbonaceous meteorite was selected to expand on these studies for microbiological study by cultivation on anaerobic mineral media. Since the surface could have been more easily contaminated, interior fragments of a sample of the Murchison meteorite were extracted and crushed under sterile conditions. The resulting powder was then mixed in anoxic medium and injected into Hungate tubes containing anaerobic media with various growth substrates at different pH and salinity and incubated at different temperatures. The goal of the experiments was to determine if living cells would grow from the material of freshly fractured interior fragments of the stone. If any growth occurred, work could then be carried out to assess the nature of the environmental contamination by observations of the culture growth (rates of speed and biodiversity); live/dead fluorescent staining to determine contamination level and DNA analysis to establish the microbial species present. In this paper we report the results of that study.

Capability Investment Strategy to Enable JPL Future Space Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lincoln, William; Merida, Sofia; Adumitroaie, Virgil; Weisbin, Charles R.

2006-01-01

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) formulates and conducts deep space missions for NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration). The Chief Technologist of JPL has responsibility for strategic planning of the laboratory's advanced technology program to assure that the required technological capabilities to enable future missions are ready as needed. The responsibilities include development of a Strategic Plan (Antonsson, E., 2005). As part of the planning effort, a structured approach to technology prioritization, based upon the work of the START (Strategic Assessment of Risk and Technology) (Weisbin, C.R., 2004) team, was developed. The purpose of this paper is to describe this approach and present its current status relative to the JPL technology investment.

The Fermi Unix environment -- Dealing with adolescence

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

Pordes, R.; Nicholls, J.; Wicks, M.

1995-10-01

Fermilab`s Computing Division started early in the definition implementation and promulgation of a common environment for Users across the Laboratory`s UNIX platforms and installations. Based on the authors experience over nearly five years, they discuss the status of the effort, ongoing developments and needs, some analysis of where they could have done better, and identify future directions to allow them to provide better and more complete service to their customers. In particular, with the power of the new PCs making enthusiastic converts of physicists to the pc world, they are faced with the challenge of expanding the paradigm to non-UNIXmore » platforms in a uniform and consistent way.« less

Routine operation of an Elliott 903 computer in a clinical chemistry laboratory

PubMed Central

Whitby, L. G.; Simpson, D.

1973-01-01

Experience gained in the last four years concerning the capabilities and limitations of an 8K Elliott 903 (18-bit word) computer with magnetic tape backing store in the routine operation of a clinical chemistry laboratory is described. Designed as a total system, routine operation has latterly had to be confined to data acquisition and process control functions, due primarily to limitations imposed by the choice of hardware early in the project. In this final report of a partially successful experiment the opportunity is taken to review mistakes made, especially at the start of the project, to warn potential computer users of pitfalls to be avoided. PMID:4580240

[Rhabdomyolysis in a bodybuilder using steroids].

PubMed

Daniels, J M A; van Westerloo, D J; de Hon, O M; Frissen, P H J

2006-05-13

A 34-year-old bodybuilder presented at the emergency room with fever, vomiting and muscle cramps that had started during a bodybuilding session. Several days before he started training he had used tablets and intramuscular injections containing the anabolic steroids: dehydro-chloro-methyltestosterone, boldenone and trenbolone. In addition, he had taken clenbuterol tablets, liothyronine tablets and subcutaneous injections of phosphatidylcholine. Laboratory investigations revealed massive rhabdomyolysis. The patient was treated with intravenous fluid replacement and sodium bicarbonate to alkalinize the urine. He recovered quickly and his renal function remained unaffected. 'Doping' among amateur athletes in the Netherlands occurs frequently. Apart from long term side-effects, doping can also cause acute health problems. Therefore it is important to ask about doping use during history taking in amateur athletes.

Evaluating the Impact of E15 on Snowmobile Engine Durability and Vehicle Driveability: September 22, 2010 - August 15, 2013

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

Miers, Scott A.; Blough, Jason R.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of E15 on current and legacy snowmobile engines and vehicles that could occur due to misfueling by the vehicle owner. Three test scenarios were conducted to evaluate the impact of E15, including cold-start performance and emissions, on-snow vehicle driveability, and laboratory exhaust emissions over the useful life of the engine. The eightengines tested represent current and legacy product that may exhibit sensitivity to increased ethanol blended in gasoline. Because a limited number of snowmobile engines were evaluated for this test program, the results are not statistically significant. However, the broadmore » range of engine and mixture preparation technologies, combined with the various test scenarios provide preliminaryinformation to assess potential issues with E15 use in snowmobiles. Cold-start tests were performed at -6.7 degrees C (20 degrees F), -17.8 degrees C (0 degrees F), and -28.9 degrees C (-20 degrees F). The evaluation included time to start or number of pulls to start, engine speed, exhaust gas temperature, and start-up engine emissions concentrations. Statistically significant differences instarting times were not observed for most vehicles. Snowmobile driveability was analyzed using a subjective evaluation on a controlled test course. The drivers could not easily discern which fuel the snowmobiles were using during the subjective evaluation. Durability tests were conducted to measure the emissions and performance of the snowmobiles over the useful life of the vehicles (5,000miles). There were no fuel-related engine failures on E0 or E15. Carbon monoxide emissions were generally reduced by E15 relative to E0, by from 10% to 35%. Occasional misfueling of snowmobiles with E15 is not likely to cause noticeable or immediate problems for consumers. E15 is not approved for snowmobile use, and observations made during this study support the U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency's decision to not approve E15 for snowmobiles.« less

Saccharin Derivative Synthesis via [1,3] Thermal Sigmatropic Rearrangement: A Multistep Organic Chemistry Experiment for Undergraduate Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fonseca, Custódia S. C.

2016-01-01

Saccharin (1,2-benzisothiazole-3-one 1,1-dioxide) is an artificial sweetener used in the food industry. It is a cheap and easily available organic compound that may be used in organic chemistry laboratory classes for the synthesis of related heterocyclic compounds and as a derivatizing agent. In this work, saccharin is used as a starting material…

The physics of Copenhagen for students and the general public

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bergström, L.; Johansson, K. E.; Nilsson, Ch

2001-09-01

The play Copenhagen has attracted the attention of a large audience in several countries. The hypothetical discussion in Copenhagen between two of the giants in physics, Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg, has inspired us to start a theoretical and experimental exploration of quantum physics. This theme has been used in Stockholm Science Laboratory for audiences of both students and the general public.

Driving Solar Innovations from Laboratory to Marketplace - Continuum

Science.gov Websites

. military-funded core technologies would someday lead to the internet. Or that a solar photovoltaics (PV more than a dozen start-up thin-film PV companies. This ultimately led to the creation of First Solar build a large-scale solar PV module plant in Colorado. As it has matured, CdTe technology has achieved

Dynamically Stable Legged Locomotion

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-11-30

the laboratory. Harry Asada, Wayne Book, Nancy Cornelius, Sesh Murthy and Ivan Sutherland read various drafts of this report, for which we are...particularly helpful in providing an atmosphere where things could get started. Craig Fields and Clint Kelly deserve special credit for letting the idea of...legged technology capture their imaginations, even before we could show them tangible results. We are especially indebted to Ivan Sutherland for his

Mockingbirds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stewart, Arthur J.

2018-03-01

"Science flavored" poetry offers an aesthetic way to explore spaces between facts. This poem, through recursively introducing a central metaphor—a mockingbird—may encourage new ways to think about teaching science. Important context for the poem is this: a cohort of about 250 students arrived at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory in east Tennessee on a beautiful day in June, 2016, ready to start their summer research experience.

Smart Coatings for Launch Site Corrosion Protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz M.

2014-01-01

Smart, environmentally friendly paint system for early corrosion detection, mitigation, and healing that will enable supportability in KSC launch facilities and ground systems through their operational life cycles. KSC's Corrosion Technology Laboratory is developing a smart, self-healing coating that can detect and repair corrosion at an early stage. This coating is being developed using microcapsules specifically designed to deliver the contents of their core when corrosion starts.

The Gerda experiment for the search of 0νββ decay in 76Ge

DOE PAGES

Ackermann, K. -H.; Agostini, M.; Allardt, M.; ...

2013-03-01

The Gerda collaboration is performing a search for neutrinoless double beta decay of 76 Ge with the eponymous detector. The experiment has been installed and commissioned at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso and has started operation in November 2011. The design, construction and first operational results are described, along with detailed information from the R & D phase.

Programs Visualize Earth and Space for Interactive Education

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2014-01-01

Kevin Hussey and others at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory produced web applications to visualize all of the spacecraft in orbit around Earth and in the Solar System. Hussey worked with Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based The Elumenati to rewrite the programs, and after licensing them, the company started offering a version that can be viewed on spheres and dome theaters for schools, museums, science centers, and other institutions.

Definition and documentation of engineering processes

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

McDonald, G.W.

1997-11-01

This tutorial is an extract of a two-day workshop developed under the auspices of the Quality Engineering Department at Sandia National Laboratories. The presentation starts with basic definitions and addresses why processes should be defined and documented. It covers three primary topics: (1) process considerations and rationale, (2) approach to defining and documenting engineering processes, and (3) an IDEFO model of the process for defining engineering processes.

Former Intern: Amy Stull Returns to Her Roots | Poster

Cancer.gov

By Carolynne Keenan, Contributing Writer When Amy Stull, a 2000 graduate of Walkersville High School, began working in a laboratory at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) at Frederick, she likely did not know the role NCI would play in her career. Stull started at NCI as a Werner H. Kirsten (WHK) student intern after her junior year of high school, working in a lab as she

Lab Plays Central Role in Groundbreaking National Clinical Trial in Precision Medicine | Poster

Cancer.gov

The Molecular Characterization Laboratory lies at the heart of an ambitious new approach for testing cancer drugs that will use the newest tools of precision medicine to select the best treatment for individual patients based on the genetic makeup of their tumors. The protocol, called NCI-Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH), will start with tumor biopsies from as

Palaeonummulites venosus: Natural growth rates and quantification by means of CT investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kinoshita, Shunichi; Eder, Wolfgang; Woeger, Julia; Hohenegger, Johann; Briguglio, Antonino

2016-04-01

Symbiont-bearing larger benthic Foraminifera (LBF) are long-living marine (possibly >1 year), single-celled organisms with complex calcium carbonate shells. Reproduction period, longevity and chamber building rate of LBF are important for population dynamics studies. It was expected that growth experiments in laboratory cultures cannot be used for estimation of chamber building rates and longevity studies although the laboratory conditions were simulated to natural conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to study individual and population growth under natural conditions for getting natural information. Therefore, the 'natural laboratory' method was developed to calculate the averaged chamber building rate and averaged longevity of species based on monthly sampling at fixed sampling stations and to compare with laboratory cultures simulating environmental conditions as close as possible to the natural environment. Thus, in this study, samples of living individuals were collected in 16 monthly intervals at 50m depth in front of Sesoko Island, Okinawa, Japan. We used micro-computed tomography (microCT) to investigate the chamber number of every specimen from the samples immediately dried after sampling. Single non dried specimens were cultured and the time of chamber building was obtained using microphotographs counted for every specimen at 2 to 4 days time intervals. The investigation using the natural laboratory method of Palaeonummulites venosus is based on the decomposition of the monthly frequency distributions into normally distributed components. Then the shift of the component parameters mean and standard deviation was used to calculate the necessary character of maximum chamber number and the Michaelis Menten function was applied to estimate the chamber building rate under natural conditions. This resulted in two reproduction periods, the first starting in May and the second in September, both showing the same chamber building rates, where the first shows a slightly stronger increase in the initial part. Longevity seems to be round about one year. Due to the several reproduction periods, the existence of small and large specimens in the same sample and the bimodal distributions can be explained. The cultured individuals shows a much lower chamber building rate, often demonstrating a longer period with no chamber production just after sampling, the results of sampling shock. This is the first time that it can be shown that chamber building rates and longevities cannot be based on laboratory investigations.

Is it new? Personal and contextual influences on perceptions of novelty and creativity.

PubMed

Zhou, Jing; Wang, Xiaoye May; Song, Lynda Jiwen; Wu, Junfeng

2017-02-01

Novelty recognition is the crucial starting point for extracting value from the ideas generated by others. In this paper we develop an associative evaluation account for how personal and contextual factors motivate individuals to perceive novelty and creativity. We report 4 studies that systematically tested hypotheses developed from this perspective. Study 1 (a laboratory experiment) showed that perceivers' regulatory focus, as an experimentally induced state, affected novelty perception. Study 2 (a field study) found that perceivers' promotion focus and prevention focus, measured as chronic traits, each interacted with normative level of novelty and creativity: perceivers who scored higher on promotion focus perceived more novelty (or creativity) in novel (or creative) targets than those who scored lower, whereas perceivers who scored higher on prevention focus perceived less novelty (or creativity) in novel (or creative) targets than those who scored lower. Study 3 (a field study) showed that organizational culture affected the perception of novelty and creativity. Study 4 (a laboratory experiment) found perceiver-by-idea-by-context 3-way interaction effects: for perceivers with prevention focus, the positive relation between normative level of novelty and novelty ratings was weakened in the loss-framing condition versus the gain-framing condition. We discuss implications of the findings for future research and management practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

[Clinical management of acute and chronic human immunodeficiency virus infection before starting antiretroviral treatment].

PubMed

Miró, José M; Manzardo, Christian; Zamora, Laura; Pumarola, Tomas; Herreras, Zoe; Gallart, Teresa; Gatell, José M

2011-12-01

The evaluation of new cases of HIV infection is relatively common in Spain, where several thousands of patients with new infections are diagnosed each year. Eighty per cent of them have a chronic HIV infection at the first clinical evaluation, which is symptomatic (late presenters) in up to 30% of patients. The initial evaluation of HIV infection is not only directed at determining the clinical, virological (plasma HIV RNA viral load, resistance test and viral tropism) and immunological (CD4+ T-cell cell count) situation of the patients, but must also address the study of their co-infections (hepatitis, tuberculosis) and comorbidities (cardiovascular, hepatic, renal and bone) and the risk of HIV transmission. This is needed in order to decide, whether or not to start antiretroviral treatment, and with which combined antiretroviral treatment to start with, the prophylaxis of opportunistic infections, and the treatment of coinfections and comorbidities. The past and current medical history, the physical examination and laboratory tests will help us decide if the patient is to receive therapeutic intervention. The level of CD4+ T-cell lymphocytes is the best marker to suggest when to start combined antiretroviral treatment, indicating whether or not to start prophylaxis against opportunistic infections (if patients have a CD4+ T-cell count below 200 cells/mm(3)), and in advanced patients should make us suspect the presence of active opportunistic diseases in symptomatic cases. The management of patients with HIV infection must also include appropriate health education on the modes of transmission and prevention of HIV infection, and also to explain its natural history and how it can be modified with proper antiretroviral treatment, as well as to promote a healthy life. No less important is the psychological support, as these patients must learn to live with a chronic infection, which managed properly can ensure a very good long-term prognosis and quality of life. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

Low-temperature surface formation of NH3 and HNCO: hydrogenation of nitrogen atoms in CO-rich interstellar ice analogues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fedoseev, G.; Ioppolo, S.; Zhao, D.; Lamberts, T.; Linnartz, H.

2015-01-01

Solid-state astrochemical reaction pathways have the potential to link the formation of small nitrogen-bearing species, like NH3 and HNCO, and prebiotic molecules, specifically amino acids. To date, the chemical origin of such small nitrogen-containing species is still not well understood, despite the fact that ammonia is an abundant constituent of interstellar ices towards young stellar objects and quiescent molecular clouds. This is mainly because of the lack of dedicated laboratory studies. The aim of this work is to experimentally investigate the formation routes of NH3 and HNCO through non-energetic surface reactions in interstellar ice analogues under fully controlled laboratory conditions and at astrochemically relevant temperatures. This study focuses on the formation of NH3 and HNCO in CO-rich (non-polar) interstellar ices that simulate the CO freeze-out stage in dark interstellar cloud regions, well before thermal and energetic processing start to become relevant. We demonstrate and discuss the surface formation of solid HNCO through the interaction of CO molecules with NH radicals - one of the intermediates in the formation of solid NH3 upon sequential hydrogenation of N atoms. The importance of HNCO for astrobiology is discussed.

Solar Modulation of Atmospheric Cosmic Radiation:. Comparison Between In-Flight and Ground-Level Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iles, R. H. A.; Taylor, G. C.; Jones, J. B. L.

January 2000 saw the start of a collaborative study involving the Mullard Space Science Laboratory, Virgin Atlantic Airways, the Civil Aviation Authority and the National Physical Laboratory in a program to investigate the cosmic radiation exposure to aircrew. The study has been undertaken in view of EU Directive 96/291 (May 2000) which requires the assessment of the level of radiation exposure to aircrew. The project's aims include validation of radiation dose models and evaluation of space weather effects on atmospheric cosmic radiation levels, in particular those effects not accounted for by the models. Ground level measurements are often used as a proxy for variations in cosmic radiation dose levels at aircraft altitudes, especially during Forbush Decreases (FDs) and Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) events. Is this estimation realistic and does the ground level data accurately represent what is happening at altitude? We have investigated the effect of a FD during a flight from Hong Kong to London Heathrow on the 15th July 2000 and compared count rate and dose measurements with simultaneous variations measured at ground level. We have also compared the results with model outputs.

An examination of speech reception thresholds measured in a simulated reverberant cafeteria environment.

PubMed

Best, Virginia; Keidser, Gitte; Buchholz, Jörg M; Freeston, Katrina

2015-01-01

There is increasing demand in the hearing research community for the creation of laboratory environments that better simulate challenging real-world listening environments. The hope is that the use of such environments for testing will lead to more meaningful assessments of listening ability, and better predictions about the performance of hearing devices. Here we present one approach for simulating a complex acoustic environment in the laboratory, and investigate the effect of transplanting a speech test into such an environment. Speech reception thresholds were measured in a simulated reverberant cafeteria, and in a more typical anechoic laboratory environment containing background speech babble. The participants were 46 listeners varying in age and hearing levels, including 25 hearing-aid wearers who were tested with and without their hearing aids. Reliable SRTs were obtained in the complex environment, but led to different estimates of performance and hearing-aid benefit from those measured in the standard environment. The findings provide a starting point for future efforts to increase the real-world relevance of laboratory-based speech tests.

Reducing the Environmental Impact of Clinical Laboratories.

PubMed

Lopez, Joseph B; Jackson, David; Gammie, Alistair; Badrick, Tony

2017-02-01

Healthcare is a significant contributor to environmental impact but this has received little attention. The typical laboratory uses far more energy and water per unit area than the typical office building. There is a need to sensitise laboratories to the importance of adopting good environmental practices. Since this comes at an initial cost, it is vital to obtain senior management support. Convincing management of the various tangible and intangible benefits that can accrue in the long run should help achieve this support. Many good environmental practices do not have a cost but will require a change in the culture and mind-set of the organisation. Continuing education and training are important keys to successful implementation of good practices. There is a need to undertake a rigorous cost-benefit analysis of every change that is introduced in going green. The adoption of good practices can eventually lead to ISO certification if this is desired. This paper provides suggestions that will allow a laboratory to start going green. It will allow the industry to enhance its corporate citizenship whilst improving its competitive advantage for long-term.

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

French, T

I am pleased to present the fiscal year 2007 Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) annual report. This represents the first year that SRNL has been eligible for LDRD participation and our results to date demonstrate we are off to an excellent start. SRNL became a National Laboratory in 2004, and was designated the 'Corporate Laboratory' for the DOE Office of Environmental Management (EM) in 2006. As you will see, we have made great progress since these designations. The LDRD program is one of the tools SRNL is using to enable achievement of our strategic goals for the DOE. Themore » LDRD program allows the laboratory to blend a strong basic science component into our applied technical portfolio. This blending of science with applied technology provides opportunities for our scientists to strengthen our capabilities and delivery. The LDRD program is vital to help SRNL attract and retain leading scientists and engineers who will help build SRNL's future and achieve DOE mission objectives. This program has stimulated our research staff creativity, while realizing benefits from their participation. This investment will yield long term dividends to the DOE in its Environmental Management, Energy, and National Security missions.« less

Absorption of Transdermal Fluoxetine Compounded in a Lipoderm Base Compared to Oral Fluoxetine in Client-owned Cats.

PubMed

Eichstadt, Lauren R; Corriveau, Lorraine A; Moore, George E; Knipp, Gregory T; Cooper, Bruce R; Gwin, Wilson E

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to compare serum concentrations of transdermal fluoxetine compounded in Lipoderm base versus commercially available oral fluoxetine tablets. Sixteen clinically healthy, client-owned cats that were at least one year of age were enrolled. Cats weighed between three and seven kilograms, had no comorbidities, and were behavior medication naïve. Cats were recruited from January 2016 through April 2016. Eight cats were assigned to each medication group based on owner preference. The cats received either oral (1 mg/kg) or transdermal (5 mg/kg; maximum 25 mg daily) fluoxetine compounded in a transdermal base (PCCA Lipoderm), administered daily for 60 days. Serum levels of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine were assessed as a surrogate for relative efficacy. Serum was collected and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry at baseline and days 5, 10, 30, 45, and 60 post-drug start. Adverse effects were monitored during physical exams, speaking with owners, and laboratory analysis of liver function tests at baseline and days 5, 30, and 60 post-drug start. Serum fluoxetine concentrations significantly differed between the treatment groups at days 45 and 60 post-drug start. Norfluoxetine concentrations significantly differed at days 30, 45, and 60 post-drug start. Blood concentrations of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine significantly differed between oral and transdermal routes after 30 days of treatment. Oral fluoxetine concentrations were consistently higher. Transdermal fluoxetine appeared to be well-tolerated, but a lack of knowledge regarding effective blood levels makes it unclear if a clinical effective response would be obtained at the blood concentrations achieved. Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.

La socialisation des jeunes dans les villes du Tiers-Monde — le cas de l'Afrique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ly, Boubakar

1985-12-01

Third-World cities constitute quasi-laboratories for the study of change and learning. The present article takes the African situation of merging traditional and modern elements as its starting point and analyzes young people's socialization processes in this context. As a consequence of the activities of migrant organizations, the more general circumstances leading to migration and the fact that people are faced with a new `lifestyle' in a complex and often merciless environment, an atmosphere is created where learning for life and vocational training abound with initiative and innovation. This `learning for life' is borne by the informal fabric of new social interactions and the influence of the mass media.

Resting Is Rusting: A Critical View on Rodent Wheel-Running Behavior.

PubMed

Richter, Sophie Helene; Gass, Peter; Fuss, Johannes

2014-08-01

Physical exercise is known to exert various beneficial effects on brain function and bodily health throughout life. In biomedical research, these effects are widely studied by introducing running wheels into the cages of laboratory rodents. Yet, although rodents start to run in the wheels immediately, and perform wheel-running excessively on a voluntary basis, the biological significance of wheel-running is still not clear. Here, we review the current literature on wheel-running and discuss potentially negative side-effects that may give cause for concern. We particularly emphasize on analogies of wheel-running with stereotypic and addictive behavior to stimulate further research on this topic. © The Author(s) 2014.

Practical way to develop 10-color flow cytometry protocols for the clinical laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tárnok, Attila; Bocsi, Jozsef

2010-02-01

The latest development of commercial routine flow cytometers (FCM) is that they are equipped with three (blue, red, violet) or more lasers and many PMT detectors. Nowadays routine clinical instruments are capable of detecting 10 or more fluorescence colors simultaneously. Thereby, presenting opportunities for getting detailed information on the single cell level for cytomics and systems biology for improve diagnostics and monitoring of patients. The University Leipzig, Germany) recently started a cluster of excellence to study the molecular background of life style and environment associated diseases, enrolling 25000 individuals (LIFE). To this end the most comprehensive FCM protocol has to be developed for this study. We aimed to optimize fluorochrome and antibody combinations to the characteristics of the instrument for successful 10-color FCM. Systematic review of issues related to sampling, preparation, instrument settings, spillover and compensation matrix, reagent performance, and general principles of panel construction was performed. 10-color FCM enables for increased accuracy in cell subpopulation identification, the ability to obtain detailed information from blood specimens, improved laboratory efficiency, and the means to consistently detect major and rare cell populations. Careful attention to details of instrument and reagent performance allows for the development of panels suitable for screening of samples from healthy and diseased donors. The characteristics of this technique are particularly well suited for the analysis of broad human population cohorts and have the potential to reach the everyday practice in a standardized way for the clinical laboratory.

The Social Impact of the Offer of Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) in a University Hospital in Rio de Janeiro.

PubMed

Costa, Tonia; Corrêa, Marilena C D V

2015-02-01

The aim of this study is to report the procedures undertaken in the laboratory of semen of a university hospital specialized in human reproduction in Rio de Janeiro, principally Homologous Artificial Insemination (HAI) taking into account a more social aspect. This descriptive and retrospective study was based on documentary research. The source of information included medical records and registers containing the procedures performed in the laboratory of semen and the HAI. Testimonies, questionings and suggestions given by the couples during the process were also registered. The couples were clearly informed about the techniques and many times they externalized their demands, doubts and desires in relation to the procedures, treatment and issues concerning their wish to have children and start a family. The discussion shows concerns over the techniques and theories used in this context when performing procedures in the laboratory of semen. The bond to the service remains based on the idea that "now my dream of having kids will come true". Nevertheless, for the operationalization of the access to ARTs, at the public sector of medicine, we should count on the implementation of the National Politics in Assisted Reproduction. It did not take place and today it has even been removed, no longer being in force. It makes very clear the distance between the "accomplishment of the desire for children" and the reality of the provision of means and resources for ART at the medical public level in Brazil.

First laboratory high-temperature emissivity measurements of Venus analog measurements in the near-infrared atmospheric windows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helbert, J.; Maturilli, A.; Ferrari, S.; Dyar, M. D.; Smrekar, S. E.

2014-12-01

The permanent cloud cover of Venus prohibits observation of the surface with traditional imaging techniques over most of the visible spectral range. Venus' CO2 atmosphere is transparent exclusively in small spectral windows near 1 μm. The Visible and Infrared Thermal Imaging Spectrometer (VIRTIS) team on the European Space Agency Venus-Express mission have recently used these windows successfully to map the southern hemisphere from orbit. VIRTIS is showing variations in surface brightness, which can be interpreted as variations in surface emissivity. Deriving surface composition from these variations is a challenging task. Comparison with laboratory analogue spectra are complicated by the fact that Venus has an average surface temperature of 730K. Mineral crystal structures and their resultant spectral signatures are notably affected by temperature, therefore any interpretations based on room temperature laboratory spectra database can be misleading. In order to support the interpretation of near-infrared data from Venus we have started an extensive measurement campaign at the Planetary Emissivity Laboratory (PEL, Institute of Planetary Research of the German Aerospace Center, Berlin). The PEL facility, which is unique in the world, allows emission measurements covering the 1 to 2 μm wavelength range at sample temperatures of up to 770K. Conciliating the expected emissivity variation between felsic and mafic minerals with Venera and VEGA geochemical data we have started with a set of five analog samples. This set includes basalt, gneiss, granodiorite, anorthosite and hematite, thus covering the range of mineralogies. Preliminary results show significant spectral contrast, thus allowing different samples to be distinguished with only 5 spectral points and validating the use of thermal emissivity for investigating composition. This unique new dataset from PEL not only allows interpretation of the Venus Express VIRTIS data but also provide a baseline for considering new instrument designs for future Venus missions.

An overview of clinical studies on fiber post systems.

PubMed

Dikbas, Idil; Tanalp, Jale

2013-01-01

Intraradicular posts are useful adjuncts in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. These systems have undergone a significant evolution in recent years, and fiber-reinforced systems have started to be incorporated into routine clinical care more frequently. Despite the high number of laboratory studies pertaining to the characteristics of fiber posts, clinical studies evaluating their general success rates are rather limited. Since clinical investigations are reliable means to achieve information about the general behavior pattern of materials or techniques, assessment of this data will be beneficial to have a better understanding of fiber-reinforced intraradicular post systems. The purpose of this paper was to make a summary of clinical studies regarding various fiber posts. A PubMed search was conducted and articles dating back to 1990 were retrieved. The paper provides an overview of clinical studies on fiber posts specifically in the last decade as well as commentary analysis.

An Overview of Clinical Studies on Fiber Post Systems

PubMed Central

Dikbas, Idil; Tanalp, Jale

2013-01-01

Intraradicular posts are useful adjuncts in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. These systems have undergone a significant evolution in recent years, and fiber-reinforced systems have started to be incorporated into routine clinical care more frequently. Despite the high number of laboratory studies pertaining to the characteristics of fiber posts, clinical studies evaluating their general success rates are rather limited. Since clinical investigations are reliable means to achieve information about the general behavior pattern of materials or techniques, assessment of this data will be beneficial to have a better understanding of fiber-reinforced intraradicular post systems. The purpose of this paper was to make a summary of clinical studies regarding various fiber posts. A PubMed search was conducted and articles dating back to 1990 were retrieved. The paper provides an overview of clinical studies on fiber posts specifically in the last decade as well as commentary analysis. PMID:24250255

Implementation of an e-learning module improves consistency in the histopathological diagnosis of sessile serrated lesions within a nationwide population screening programme.

PubMed

IJspeert, Joep E G; Madani, Ariana; Overbeek, Lucy I H; Dekker, Evelien; Nagtegaal, Iris D

2017-05-01

Distinguishing premalignant sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) from hyperplastic polyps (HPs) is difficult for pathologists in daily practice. We aimed to evaluate nationwide variability within histopathology laboratories in the frequency of diagnosing an SSL as compared with an HP within the Dutch population-based screening programme for colorectal cancer and to assess the effect of an e-learning module on interlaboratory consistency. Data were retrieved from the Dutch Pathology Registry from the start of the nationwide population screening programme, January 2014, until December 2015. An obligatory e-learning module was implemented among pathologists in October 2014. The ratio between SSL and HP diagnosis was determined per laboratory. Odds ratios (ORs) for the diagnosis of an SSL per laboratory were compared with the laboratory with the median odds (median laboratory), before and after implementation of the e-learning module. In total, 14 997 individuals with 27 879 serrated polyps were included; 6665 (23.9%) were diagnosed as SSLs, and 21 214 as HPs (76.1%). The ratio of diagnosing an SSL ranged from 5% to 47% (median 23%) within 44 laboratories. Half of the laboratories showed a significantly different OR (range 3.47-0.16) for diagnosing an SSL than the median laboratory. Variability decreased after implementation of the e-learning module (P = 0.02). Of all pathology laboratories, 70% became more consistent with the median laboratory after e-learning implementation. We demonstrated substantial interlaboratory variability in the histopathological diagnosis of SSLs, which significantly decreased after implementation of a structured e-learning module. Widespread implementation of education might contribute to more homogeneous practice among pathologists. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

NMR spectroscopy of experimentally shocked single crystal quartz: A reexamination of the NMR shock barometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fiske, P. S.; Gratz, A. J.; Nellis, W. J.

1993-01-01

Cygan and others report a broadening of the Si-29 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) peak for synthetic quartz powders with increasing shock pressure which they propose as a shock wave barometer for natural systems. These results are expanded by studying single crystal quartz shocked to 12 and 33 GPa using the 6.5 m two-stage light-gas gun at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories. Our NMR results differ substantially from those of Cygan and others and suggest that the proposed shock wave barometer may require refinement. The difference in results between this study and that of Cygan and others is most likely caused by different starting materials (single crystal vs. powder) and different shock loading histories. NMR results from single crystal studies may be more applicable to natural systems.

Adsorption Isotherm Studies of Methyl Bromide on MgO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burns, Teresa; Larese, John

2003-11-01

The adsorption of methyl bromine onto highly-uniform magnesium oxide powder was studied using a high-precision computer-controlled gas adsorption system. Methyl bromide was condensed onto the MgO substrate at temperatures between 165 K and 180 K. The layering behavior, iosthermal compressibility, and isosteric heat of adsorption were determined. Isotherms will be presented and future work discussed. TEB research sponsored by the Department of Energy EPSCOR Grant No. DE-FG02-01ER45895. JZL research sponsored by start-up funds from the University of Tennessee - Knoxville and by the Division of Materials Sciences, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, U.S. Department of Energy, under contract No. DE-AC05-00OR22725 with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, managed and operated by UT-Battelle, LLC.

[Achilles tendon xanthoma imaging on ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging].

PubMed

Fernandes, Eloy de Ávila; Santos, Eduardo Henrique Sena; Tucunduva, Tatiana Cardoso de Mello; Ferrari, Antonio J L; Fernandes, Artur da Rocha Correa

2015-01-01

The Achilles tendon xanthoma is a rare disease and has a high association with primary hyperlipidemia. An early diagnosis is essential to start treatment and change the disease course. Imaging exams can enhance diagnosis. This study reports the case of a 60-year-old man having painless nodules on his elbows and Achilles tendons without typical gout crisis, followed in the microcrystalline disease clinic of Unifesp for diagnostic workup. Laboratory tests obtained showed dyslipidemia. The ultrasound (US) showed a diffuse Achilles tendon thickening with hypoechoic areas. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a diffuse tendon thickening with intermediate signal areas, and a reticulate pattern within. Imaging studies showed relevant aspects to diagnose a xanthoma, thus helping in the differential diagnosis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Review on research of suppression male fertility and male contraceptive drug development by natural products.

PubMed

Bajaj, Vijay Kumar; Gupta, Radhey S

2013-08-01

Male contraceptive development in the present scenario is most viable aspect of research due to uncontrolled population growth in the world. In this respect investigators are busy to find out a safe male contraceptive drug. Researchers have started their finding for a suitable drug from natural sources because these are safe and easily acceptable for common man, most of natural sources are plants and their products. In this review 137 plants and their effects on reproduction and reproductive physiology are summarized. Some of them have intense effect on male reproductive system and do not produce any side effects. Reproductive toxicological studies are also important aspects of these kinds of researches, so it is important that drugs are safe and widely acceptable. An ideal male contraceptive can influence semen, testes, hormone level, accessory reproductive organs and general physiology of animals and produced some alterations. Many plants in this review are showing antifertility as well as antispermatogenic effects, so these may be used for further study for contraceptives development but it is important to find out the mechanism of reaction and further laboratory and clinical research on some plants are needed for final male contraceptive drug development. In conclusion this review will help for finding suitable plant products for male contraceptive clinical and laboratory studies.

Spectroscopic studies of non-volatile residue formed by photochemistry of solid C4N2: A model of condensed aerosol formation on Titan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Couturier-Tamburelli, Isabelle; Gudipati, Murthy S.; Lignell, Antti; Jacovi, Ronen; Piétri, Nathalie

2014-05-01

Following our recent communication (Gudipati, M.S. et al. [2013]. Nat. Commun. 4, 1648. http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/ncomms2649) on the discovery of condensed-phase non-volatile polymeric material with similar spectral features as tholins, we present here a comprehensive spectroscopic study of photochemical formation of polymeric material from condensed dicyanoacetylene (C4N2) ice films. C4N2 is chosen as starting material for the laboratory simulations because of the detection of this and similar molecules (nitriles and cyanoacetylenes) in Titan’s atmosphere. UV-Vis and infrared spectra obtained during long-wavelength (>300 nm) photon irradiation and subsequent warming of the ice films are used to analyze changes in C4N2 ice, evolution of tholins, and derive photopolymerization mechanisms. Our data analysis revealed that many processes occur during the photolysis of condensed Titan’s aerosol analogs, including isomerization and polymerization leading to the formation of long-chain as well as aromatic cyclic polymer molecules. In the light of tremendous new data from the Cassini mission on the seasonal variations in Titan’s atmosphere, our laboratory study and its results provide fresh insight into the formation and evolution of aerosols and haze in Titan’s atmosphere.

What do we know about the yeast strains from the Brazilian fuel ethanol industry?

PubMed

Della-Bianca, Bianca Eli; Basso, Thiago Olitta; Stambuk, Boris Ugarte; Basso, Luiz Carlos; Gombert, Andreas Karoly

2013-02-01

The production of fuel ethanol from sugarcane-based raw materials in Brazil is a successful example of a large-scale bioprocess that delivers an advanced biofuel at competitive prices and low environmental impact. Two to three fed-batch fermentations per day, with acid treatment of the yeast cream between consecutive cycles, during 6-8 months of uninterrupted production in a nonaseptic environment are some of the features that make the Brazilian process quite peculiar. Along the past decades, some wild Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains were isolated, identified, characterized, and eventually, reintroduced into the process, enabling us to build up knowledge on these organisms. This information, combined with physiological studies in the laboratory and, more recently, genome sequencing data, has allowed us to start clarifying why and how these strains behave differently from the better known laboratory, wine, beer, and baker's strains. All these issues are covered in this minireview, which also presents a brief discussion on future directions in the field and on the perspectives of introducing genetically modified strains in this industrial process.

Martian Cryogenic Carbonate Formation: Stable Isotope Variations Observed in Laboratory Studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Socki, Richard A.; Niles, Paul B.; Sun, Tao; Fu, Qi; Romanek, Christopher S.; Gibson, Everett K. Jr.

2014-01-01

The history of water on Mars is tied to the formation of carbonates through atmospheric CO2 and its control of the climate history of the planet. Carbonate mineral formation under modern martian atmospheric conditions could be a critical factor in controlling the martian climate in a means similar to the rock weathering cycle on Earth. The combination of evidence for liquid water on the martian surface and cold surface conditions suggest fluid freezing could be very common on the surface of Mars. Cryogenic calcite forms easily from freezing solutions when carbon dioxide degasses quickly from Ca-bicarbonate-rich water, a process that has been observed in some terrestrial settings such as arctic permafrost cave deposits, lake beds of the Dry Valleys of Antarctica, and in aufeis (river icings) from rivers of N.E. Alaska. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted that simulated cryogenic carbonate formation on Mars in order to understand their isotopic systematics. The results indicate that carbonates grown under martian conditions show variable enrichments from starting bicarbonate fluids in both carbon and oxygen isotopes beyond equilibrium values.

Robert Blumenthal: More than 40 Years at FNL | Poster

Cancer.gov

By Carolynne Keenan, Guest Writer Robert Blumenthal, Ph.D., is a nanotechnology and cell membrane expert at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNL)—just as you would imagine someone with more than 40 years of experience in biomedical research would be. Blumenthal started his career as a principal investigator (PI) at NCI in Bethesda, but since 1997, he has called FNL (formerly NCI-Frederick) his home.

Submarine Atmospheres

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-07-01

Society of Mechanical Engineers . 7 Anonymous (19862) The Toxic Effects of Chronic Exposures to Low Levels of Carbon Dioxide, Report No. 973, Naval...is diesel engine exhaust. It started with uranium miners back in the mid- 60s. Let me just offer the fact that although it is a very complex mixture...reforming this by a modifled diesel engine In the laboratory, were able to produce lesions within the lung that progressed into vesicular emphysema

Early Detection of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009, Bangladesh

PubMed Central

Rahman, Mustafizur; Al Mamun, Abdullah; Haider, Mohammad Sabbir; Zaman, Rashid Uz; Karmakar, Polash Chandra; Nasreen, Sharifa; Muneer, Syeda Mah-E; Homaira, Nusrat; Goswami, Doli Rani; Ahmed, Be-Nazir; Husain, Mohammad Mushtuq; Jamil, Khondokar Mahbuba; Khatun, Selina; Ahmed, Mujaddeed; Chakraborty, Apurba; Fry, Alicia; Widdowson, Marc-Alain; Bresee, Joseph; Azim, Tasnim; Alamgir, A.S.M.; Brooks, Abdullah; Hossain, Mohamed Jahangir; Klimov, Alexander; Rahman, Mahmudur; Luby, Stephen P.

2012-01-01

To explore Bangladesh’s ability to detect novel influenza, we examined a series of laboratory-confirmed pandemic (H1N1) 2009 cases. During June–July 2009, event-based surveillance identified 30 case-patients (57% travelers); starting July 29, sentinel sites identified 252 case-patients (1% travelers). Surveillance facilitated response weeks before the spread of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 infection to the general population. PMID:22257637

Maize (Zea mays L.).

PubMed

Frame, Bronwyn; Warnberg, Katey; Main, Marcy; Wang, Kan

2015-01-01

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation is an effective method for introducing genes into maize. In this chapter, we describe a detailed protocol for genetic transformation of the maize genotype Hi II. Our starting plant material is immature embryos cocultivated with an Agrobacterium strain carrying a standard binary vector. In addition to step-by-step laboratory transformation procedures, we include extensive details in growing donor plants and caring for transgenic plants in the greenhouse.

Glutaric aciduria type I: A treatable neurometabolic disorder

PubMed Central

Kamate, Mahesh; Patil, Vishwanath; Chetal, Vivek; Darak, Pavan; Hattiholi, Virupaxi

2012-01-01

Background and Objectives: Glutaric aciduria Type-I (GA-I) has characteristic clinical and neuroimaging features, which clinches the diagnosis in a majority of patients. However, there have been few case reports on GA-I from India. This study was undertaken to study the clinical presentations, metabolic profile, neuroimaging findings and outcome of patients with GA-I. Study Design: The present study was a retrospective study. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of charts of patients with a diagnosis of GA-I was carried out from March 2008 to April 2010. The clinical, laboratory and neuroimaging findings were extracted in a predesigned proforma and the data was analyzed. Results: Eleven cases were found to have GA-1. Clinical presentation was quite varied. Follow-up of patients revealed that one patient with macrocephaly as the only clinical finding was developmentally normal. One patient with encephalitis-like illness steadily improved and started walking at 2 years. Two patients were bed ridden and had severe dystonia. One patient died during follow-up. The remaining six patients had dystonia and other abnormal movements, but had attained sitting without support and were not ambulatory. Conclusion: GA-I is not an uncommon disorder and diagnosis can be made easily based on clinical, laboratory investigations and neuroimaging findings. It is one of the treatable metabolic disorders and, if managed appropriately, favorable prognosis can be given. PMID:22412270

Unreliability of classic provocative tests for the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency.

PubMed

Mazzola, A; Meazza, C; Travaglino, P; Pagani, S; Frattini, D; Bozzola, E; Corneli, G; Aimaretti, G; Bozzola, M

2008-02-01

In this study we investigated 9 prepubertal children with blunted GH response to classic pharmacological stimuli in contrast with normal auxological evaluation. The children were followed to evaluate their growth velocity for a longer period before starting replacement GH therapy. To evaluate the pituitary reserve a supraphysiologic stimulus such as GHRH plus arginine was used. Serum GH levels were measured by a time-resolved immunofluorimetric assay before and after 1 microg/kg body weight iv injection of GHRH, while serum PRL, IGF-I, and insulin were evaluated only in basal conditions using an automatic immunometric assay. Out of 9 studied subjects, 7 underwent GHRH plus arginine administration and showed a normal GH response; the parents of the remaining 2 children refused the test. Normal serum levels of PRL, IGF-I, insulin, and a normal insulin sensitivity were observed in all children. After 1 yr, the growth rate in each patient was further improved and reached almost normal values. Our results further confirm that the decision to start replacement GH therapy should be based on both auxological parameters and laboratory findings. The GHRH plus arginine test appears to be useful to identify false GH deficiency in children showing a blunted GH response to classic stimuli in contrast with normal growth rate.

Fifty seven years of follow-up of the Israeli cohort of Laron Syndrome patients-From discovery to treatment.

PubMed

Laron, Zvi; Kauli, Rivka

2016-06-01

Clinical and laboratory investigations of dwarfed children newly Jewish immigrants from Yemen and Middle East and who resembled patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency were started by our group in 1958. In 1963 when we found that they have high serum levels of hGH, we knew that we had discovered a new disease of primary GH insensitivity. It was subsequently coined Laron Syndrome (LS, OMIM #262500). The etiopathogenesis was disclosed by 2 liver biopsies demonstrating a defect in the GH receptor. Subsequent investigations demonstrated deletions or mutations in the GHR gene. The defect lead to an inability of IGF-I generation, resulting in severe dwarfism, obesity, and other morphologic and biochemical pathologies due to IGF-I deficiency. With the biosynthesis of IGF-I in 1986, therapeutic trials started. Following closely our cohort of 69 patients with LS enabled us to study its features in untreated and IGF-I treated patients. This syndrome proved to be a unique model to investigate the effects of IGF-I dissociated from GH stimulation. In recent studies we found that homozygous patients for the GHR mutations are protected lifelong from developing malignancies, opening new directions of research. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Digital control for the condensate system in a combined cycle power plant

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

Sanchez Parra, M.; Fuentes Gutierrez, J.E.; Castelo Cuevas, L.

1994-12-31

This paper presents the highlights by means of which development, installation and start up of the digital control system (DCS)for the condenser and hotwell (condensate system) were performed. This system belongs to the distributed control system installed by the Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE) at the Combined Cycle Power Plant in Gomez Palacio (GP), Durango, Mexico, during the February-March period, in 1993. The main steps for development of the condenser and hotwell control system include: process modeling, definition of control strategies, algorithms, design and software development, PC simulation tests, laboratory tests with an equipment similar to the one installed atmore » the GP Power Plant, installation, and finally, start up, which was a joint effort with the GP Power Plant engineering staff.« less

Beam commission of the high intensity proton source developed at INFN-LNS for the European Spallation Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neri, L.; Celona, L.; Gammino, S.; Miraglia, A.; Leonardi, O.; Castro, G.; Torrisi, G.; Mascali, D.; Mazzaglia, M.; Allegra, L.; Amato, A.; Calabrese, G.; Caruso, A.; Chines, F.; Gallo, G.; Longhitano, A.; Manno, G.; Marletta, S.; Maugeri, A.; Passarello, S.; Pastore, G.; Seminara, A.; Spartà, A.; Vinciguerra, S.

2017-07-01

At the Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - Laboratori Nazionali del Sud (INFN-LNS) the beam commissioning of the high intensity Proton Source for the European Spallation Source (PS-ESS) started in November 2016. Beam stability at high current intensity is one of the most important parameter for the first steps of the ongoing commissioning. Promising results were obtained since the first source start with a 6 mm diameter extraction hole. The increase of the extraction hole to 8 mm allowed improving PS-ESS performances and obtaining the values required by the ESS accelerator. In this work, extracted beam current characteristics together with Doppler shift and emittance measurements are presented, as well as the description of the next phases before the installation at ESS in Lund.

Reduced Tolerance to Night Shift in Chronic Shift Workers: Insight From Fractal Regulation.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Morris, Christopher J; Patxot, Melissa; Yugay, Tatiana; Mistretta, Joseph; Purvis, Taylor E; Scheer, Frank A J L; Hu, Kun

2017-07-01

Healthy physiology is characterized by fractal regulation (FR) that generates similar structures in the fluctuations of physiological outputs at different time scales. Perturbed FR is associated with aging and age-related pathological conditions. Shift work, involving repeated and chronic exposure to misaligned environmental and behavioral cycles, disrupts circadian coordination. We tested whether night shifts perturb FR in motor activity and whether night shifts affect FR in chronic shift workers and non-shift workers differently. We studied 13 chronic shift workers and 14 non-shift workers as controls using both field and in-laboratory experiments. In the in-laboratory study, simulated night shifts were used to induce a misalignment between the endogenous circadian pacemaker and the sleep-wake cycles (ie, circadian misalignment) while environmental conditions and food intake were controlled. In the field study, we found that FR was robust in controls but broke down in shift workers during night shifts, leading to more random activity fluctuations as observed in patients with dementia. The night shift effect was present even 2 days after ending night shifts. The in-laboratory study confirmed that night shifts perturbed FR in chronic shift workers and showed that FR in controls was more resilience to the circadian misalignment. Moreover, FR during real and simulated night shifts was more perturbed in those who started shift work at older ages. Chronic shift work causes night shift intolerance, which is probably linked to the degraded plasticity of the circadian control system. © Sleep Research Society 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Sleep Research Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail journals.permissions@oup.com.

IPNS upgrade: A feasibility study

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

NONE

1995-04-01

Many of Argonne National Laboratory`s (ANL`s) scientific staff members were very active in R&D work related to accelerator-based spoliation sources in the 1970s and early 1980s. In 1984, the Seitz/Eastman Panel of the National Academy of Sciences reviewed U.S. materials science research facilities. One of the recommendations of this panel was that the United States build a reactor-based steady-state source, the Advanced Neutron Source (ANS), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Subsequently, R&D activities related to the design of an accelerator-based source assumed a lower priority. The resumption of pulsed-source studies in this country started simultaneously with design activities in Europemore » aimed at the European Spallation Source (ESS). The European Community funded a workshop in September 1991 to define the parameters of the ESS. Participants in this workshop included both accelerator builders and neutron source users. A consortium of European countries has proposed to build a 5-MW pulsed source, and a feasibility study is currently under way. Soon after the birth of the ESS, a small group at ANL set about bringing themselves up to date on pulsed-source information since 1984 and studied the feasibility of upgrading ANL`s Intense Pulsed Neutron Source (IPNS) to 1 MW by means of a rapidly cycling synchrotron that could be housed, along with its support facilities, in existing buildings. In early 1993, the Kohn panel recommended that (1) design and construction of the ANS should be completed according to the proposed project schedule and (2) development of competitive proposals for cost-effective design and construction of a 1-MW pulsed spallation source should be authorized immediately.« less

Guidelines for implementing automation in a hospital laboratory setting--part II.

PubMed

Rodriques, Sarina

2007-03-28

Laboratories entering into a discussion regarding automation of their facility have a number of key issues that need to be considered right away. What is the financial impact going to be? How do we know which processes we should automate and which ones we shouldn't? Which vendor is going to best align with the goals of our organization? Developing a thorough and robust plan at the start of the automation process is vital to the overall success of the project. It requires dedicated staff members who are willing to do the research, crunch the numbers, and present the data effectively. In Part II of this manuscript, issues such as cost analyses, business plans, and purchasing decisions are each covered thoroughly.

Minimal algorithm for running an internal combustion engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoica, V.; Borborean, A.; Ciocan, A.; Manciu, C.

2018-01-01

The internal combustion engine control is a well-known topic within automotive industry and is widely used. However, in research laboratories and universities the use of a control system trading is not the best solution because of predetermined operating algorithms, and calibrations (accessible only by the manufacturer) without allowing massive intervention from outside. Laboratory solutions on the market are very expensive. Consequently, in the paper we present a minimal algorithm required to start-up and run an internal combustion engine. The presented solution can be adapted to function on performance microcontrollers available on the market at the present time and at an affordable price. The presented algorithm was implemented in LabView and runs on a CompactRIO hardware platform.

Next generation platforms for high-throughput biodosimetry.

PubMed

Repin, Mikhail; Turner, Helen C; Garty, Guy; Brenner, David J

2014-06-01

Here the general concept of the combined use of plates and tubes in racks compatible with the American National Standards Institute/the Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening microplate formats as the next generation platforms for increasing the throughput of biodosimetry assays was described. These platforms can be used at different stages of biodosimetry assays starting from blood collection into microtubes organised in standardised racks and ending with the cytogenetic analysis of samples in standardised multiwell and multichannel plates. Robotically friendly platforms can be used for different biodosimetry assays in minimally equipped laboratories and on cost-effective automated universal biotech systems. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

FY17 ISCR Scholar End-of-Assignment Report - Robbie Sadre

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

Sadre, R.

2017-10-20

Throughout this internship assignment, I did various tasks that contributed towards the starting of the SASEDS (Safe Active Scanning for Energy Delivery Systems) and CES-21 (California Energy Systems for the 21st Century) projects in the SKYFALL laboratory. The goal of the SKYFALL laboratory is to perform modeling and simulation verification of transmission power system devices, while integrating with high-performance computing. The first thing I needed to do was acquire official Online LabVIEW training from National Instruments. Through these online tutorial modules, I learned the basics of LabVIEW, gaining experience in connecting to NI devices through the DAQmx API as wellmore » as LabVIEW basic programming techniques (structures, loops, state machines, front panel GUI design etc).« less

Titan Lake Probe: The Ongoing NASA Decadal Study Preliminary Report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waite, J. Hunter; Brockwell, Tim; Elliot, John; Reh, Kim; Spencer, John; Outer Planets Satellites Decadal Subpanel, The

2010-05-01

This talk provides an update on the scientific requirements and preliminary design of a Titan Lake Probe for a future NASA Flagship mission. The starting point for this study is the joint NASA ESA TSSM mission. Using this as a starting point we have revisited the scientific requirements and expanded them to include the possibility of a lake floater and a submersible. The preliminary results of this ongoing study will be presented. The scientific objectives of a Titan Lake Probe mission are: 1) to understand the formation and evolution of Titan and its atmosphere through measurement of the composition of the target lake (e.g., Kraken Mare), with particular emphasis on the isotopic composition of dissolved minor species and on dissolved noble gases, 2) to study the lake-atmosphere interaction in order to determine the role of Titan's lakes in the methane cycle, 3) to investigate the target lake as a laboratory for both pre-biotic organic chemistry in both water (or ammonia-enriched water) solutions and non-water solvents, and 4) to determine if Titan has an interior ocean by measuring tidal changes in the level of the lake over the course of Titan's sixteen-day orbit. The driving requirements for the mission are: 1) the need to land on and explore the lake at depth while adequately communicating the data back to Earth via either direct to Earth or relay communications, 2) thermal design that allows sustained (>32 days) sampling of the 94K lake environment, and 3) a mass spectrometer inlet system that allows sampling of gas, liquid, and solids from the 94K environment. The primary payload is an analytical chemistry laboratory that includes an inlet system for sampling gas, liquid, and solids in and above the lake feeding two capable mass spectrometers that determine the organic and isotopic composition of the sampled materials. The instrumentation also includes a meteorological package that can measure the rate of gas exchange between the lake and the atmosphere, and a lake physical characteristics package that includes pressure and temperature measurements as well as sonar.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid for Treatment of Enlarged Polycystic Liver.

PubMed

Iijima, Takashi; Hoshino, Junichi; Suwabe, Tatsuya; Sumida, Keiichi; Mise, Koki; Kawada, Masahiro; Imafuku, Aya; Hayami, Noriko; Hiramatsu, Rikako; Hasegawa, Eiko; Sawa, Naoki; Takaichi, Kenmei; Ubara, Yoshifumi

2016-02-01

Patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and polycystic liver disease (PLD) often have elevated serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT). Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is used to treat biliary tract diseases, but its effect on PLD remains unclear. UDCA was administered for 1 year at a dose of 300 mg daily to seven PLD patients with elevated ALP or GGT levels who were selected for this treatment by experienced clinicians. Laboratory data and liver volumes were compared among three time points: 1 year before UDCA treatment, at the start of UDCA therapy, and 1 year after the start of therapy. Median GGT did not show a significant change between 1 year before UDCA (180 IU/L) and the start of UDCA therapy (209 IU/L), but it decreased significantly to 98 IU/L after 1 year of UDCA therapy (P = 0.015 vs. the start of therapy). ALP showed a significant increase from 1 year before UDCA (456 IU/L) to the start of UDCA therapy (561 IU/L), and then decreased significantly after 1 year of UDCA therapy (364 IU/L). Median liver volume did not show any significant changes among these three time points of assessment. UDCA may be effective for reducing biliary enzyme levels and inhibiting the growth of liver cysts in patients with PLD. © 2015 International Society for Apheresis, Japanese Society for Apheresis, and Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy.

Smart management of sample dilution using an artificial neural network to achieve streamlined processes and saving resources: the automated nephelometric testing of serum free light chain as case study.

PubMed

Ialongo, Cristiano; Pieri, Massimo; Bernardini, Sergio

2017-02-01

Saving resources is a paramount issue for the modern laboratory, and new trainable as well as smart technologies can be used to allow the automated instrumentation to manage samples more efficiently in order to achieve streamlined processes. In this regard the serum free light chain (sFLC) testing represents an interesting challenge, as it usually causes using a number of assays before achieving an acceptable result within the analytical range. An artificial neural network based on the multi-layer perceptron (MLP-ANN) was used to infer the starting dilution status of sFLC samples based on the information available through the laboratory information system (LIS). After the learning phase, the MLP-ANN simulation was applied to the nephelometric testing routinely performed in our laboratory on a BN ProSpec® System analyzer (Siemens Helathcare) using the N Latex FLC kit. The MLP-ANN reduced the serum kappa free light chain (κ-FLC) and serum lambda free light chain (λ-FLC) wasted tests by 69.4% and 70.8% with respect to the naïve stepwise dilution scheme used by the automated analyzer, and by 64.9% and 66.9% compared to a "rational" dilution scheme based on a 4-step dilution. Although it was restricted to follow-up samples, the MLP-ANN showed good predictive performance, which alongside the possibility to implement it in any automated system, made it a suitable solution for achieving streamlined laboratory processes and saving resources.

Finding, Conducting, and Nurturing Science: A Virologist's Memoir.

PubMed

Skalka, Anna Marie Ann

2017-09-29

My laboratory investigations have been driven by an abiding interest in understanding the consequences of genetic rearrangement in evolution and disease, and in using viruses to elucidate fundamental mechanisms in biology. Starting with bacteriophages and moving to the retroviruses, my use of the tools of genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, and biophysics has spanned more than half a century-from the time when DNA structure was just discovered to the present day of big data and epigenetics. Both riding and contributing to the successive waves of technology, my laboratory has elucidated fundamental mechanisms in DNA replication, repair, and recombination. We have made substantial contributions in the area of retroviral oncogenesis, delineated mechanisms that control retroviral gene expression, and elucidated critical details of the structure and function of the retroviral enzymes-reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase-and have had the satisfaction of knowing that the fundamental knowledge gained from these studies contributed important groundwork for the eventual development of antiviral drugs to treat AIDS. While pursuing laboratory research as a principal investigator, I have also been a science administrator-moving from laboratory head to department chair and, finally, to institute director. In addition, I have undertaken a number of community service, science-related "extracurricular" activities during this time. Filling all of these roles, while being a wife and mother, has required family love and support, creative management, and, above all, personal flexibility-with not too much long-term planning. I hope that this description of my journey, with various roles, obstacles, and successes, will be both interesting and informative, especially to young female scientists.

Elevated serum adipsin may predict unsuccessful treatment for cows' milk allergy but other biomarkers do not.

PubMed

Salmivesi, Susanna; Paassilta, Marita; Huhtala, Heini; Nieminen, Riina; Moilanen, Eeva; Korppi, Matti

2018-02-01

This study evaluated whether 15 allergy, immunology or inflammatory markers predicted the long-term use of cows' milk or milk products seven years after the start of oral immunotherapy (OIT) for cows' milk allergy in children. The following laboratory parameters were measured before the OIT at Tampere University Hospital, Finland, and after the six-month escalation phase: serum total immunoglobulin (Ig) E, milk-specific IgG and IgG4, eosinophil cationic protein, eosinophil-derived neurotoxin, interleukins 4, 5, 6, 10 and 12p70 and serum adipokines adiponectin, adipsin, leptin and resistin. Follow-up data from a seven-year phone questionnaire in 2015 were available for 24 children: 14 successful and 10 unsuccessful milk users. There were no significant differences in any of the 15 markers measured at the start of the study between the subjects who later formed the successful and unsuccessful groups. At the end of the six-month escalation phase of OIT, serum adipsin was higher in the group who were unsuccessful milk users at the seven-year follow-up study. None of the 15 allergy, immunology or inflammatory markers were useful in predicting the outcome of OIT. Preliminary evidence was found that high serum adipsin after the six-month escalation phase of OIT might predict unsuccessful outcome. ©2017 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Methods for the In Vitro Characterization of Nanomedicines—Biological Component Interaction

PubMed Central

Fornaguera, Cristina; Solans, Conxita

2017-01-01

The design of colloidal nanosystems intended for biomedical applications, specifically in the field of personalized medicine, has increased notably in the last years. Consequently, a variety of characterization techniques devoted to studying nanomedicine interactions with proteins and cells have been developed, since a deep characterization of nanosystems is required before starting preclinical and clinical studies. In this context, this review aims to summarize the main techniques used to assess the interaction of nanomedicines with biological systems, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. Testing designed nanomaterials with these techniques is required in order to have more information about their behavior on a physiological environment. Moreover, techniques used to study the interaction of nanomedicines with proteins, such as albumin and fibrinogen, are summarized. These interactions are not desired, since they usually are the first signal to the body for the activation of the immune system, which leads to the clearance of the exogenous components. On the other hand, techniques for studying the cell toxicity of nanosystems are also summarized, since this information is required before starting preclinical steps. The translation of knowledge from novel designed nanosystems at a research laboratory scale to real human therapies is usually a limiting or even a final point due to the lack of systematic studies regarding these two aspects: nanoparticle interaction with biological components and nanoparticle cytotoxicity. In conclusion, this review will be a useful support for those scientists aiming to develop nanosystems for nanomedicine purposes. PMID:28134833

Organics removal of combined wastewater through shallow soil infiltration treatment: a field and laboratory study.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhiyin; Lei, Zhongfang; Zhang, Zhenya; Sugiura, Norio; Xu, Xiaotian; Yin, Didi

2007-11-19

Soil infiltration treatment (SIT) was proved to be an effective and low-cost treatment technique for decentralized effluents in the areas without perfect sewage systems. Field-scale experiments were conducted under several conditions to assess organics removals through a shallow soil infiltration treatment (SSIT, with effective depth 0.3m) of combined wastewater (discharge from toilets, restaurants and a gas station), while bench-scale soil column experiments were performed in laboratory in parallel to investigate biological and abiological effects of this kind of system. From the start-up to the 10th month, the field SSIT trenches experienced the lowest and highest temperatures of the operation period in Shanghai and exhibited effective organics removals after maturation, with the highest removal rate 75.8% of chemical oxygen demand (COD), highest ultraviolet absorption at 254 nm (UV(254)) decrease by 67.2% and 35.2-100% removals of phenolic and phthalate pollutants. The laboratory results indicated that more organics could be removed in room-temperatured (25+/-2 degrees C) SSIT systems under different influent COD concentrations from 45 mg/l to 406 mg/l, and the highest total COD removal rate could reach 94.0%, in which biological effect accounted for 57.7-71.9%. The results showed that temperature and hydraulic loading rate were the most important factors influencing the removals of COD and organic pollutants in SSIT.

William Horner Andrews (1887-1953)- first professor of physiology at Onderstepoort.

PubMed

Verwoerd, D W; Andrews, W J H

2011-03-01

W H Andrews qualified as a veterinarian in London in 1908 and was recruited soon after, in 1909, by Sir Arnold Theiler to join the staff of the newly established veterinary laboratory at Onderstepoort. After initial studies on the treatment of trypanosomosis and on snake venoms he was deployed by Theiler in 1911 to start research on lamsiekte (botulism)at a field station on the farm Kaffraria near Christiana, where he met and married his wife Doris. After a stint as Captain in the SA Veterinary Corps during World War I he succeeded D T Mitchell as head of the Allerton Laboratory in 1918, where he excelled in research on toxic plants, inter alia identifying Matricaria nigellaefolia as the cause of staggers in cattle. When the Faculty of Veterinary Science was established in 1920 he was appointed as the first Professor of Physiology. After the graduation of the first class in 1924, and due to health problems, he returned to the UK, first to the Royal Veterinary College and then to the Weybridge Veterinary Laboratories of which he became Director in 1927. After his retirement in 1947 he returned to South Africa as a guest worker at Onderstepoort where he again became involved in teaching physiology when Prof. Quin unexpectedly died in 1950. Andrews died in Pretoria in 1953 and was buried in the Rebecca Street Cemetery.

The Building Blocks of Materials: Gathering Knowledge at the Molecular Level

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

Two start-up positions were created within SD46 to pursue developments in the rapidly expanding areas of biomineralization and nano-technology. As envisioned by Dr. Sandor Lehoczy, the new laboratories to be developed must have the capacity to investigate not only processes associated with the self-assembly of molecules but also the examination of self-assembled structures. For these purposes, laboratories capable of performing the intended function, particularly light scattering spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy were created. What follows then are recent advances arising from the development of these new laboratories. With the implementation of the Atomic Force Microscopy Facility, examples of investigations that determine a correlation between the molecular structure of materials and their macroscopic physical properties are provided. In addition, examples of investigations with particular emphasis on the physical properties of protein crystals, at the molecular level, and subsequent macroscopic characteristics are as provided. Finally, progress in fabrication of technology at the nano-scale levels at the developmental stage is also presented.

Integrating laboratory robots with analytical instruments--must it really be so difficult?

PubMed

Kramer, G W

1990-09-01

Creating a reliable system from discrete laboratory instruments is often a task fraught with difficulties. While many modern analytical instruments are marvels of detection and data handling, attempts to create automated analytical systems incorporating such instruments are often frustrated by their human-oriented control structures and their egocentricity. The laboratory robot, while fully susceptible to these problems, extends such compatibility issues to the physical dimensions involving sample interchange, manipulation, and event timing. The workcell concept was conceived to describe the procedure and equipment necessary to carry out a single task during sample preparation. This notion can be extended to organize all operations in an automated system. Each workcell, no matter how complex its local repertoire of functions, must be minimally capable of accepting information (commands, data), returning information on demand (status, results), and being started, stopped, and reset by a higher level device. Even the system controller should have a mode where it can be directed by instructions from a higher level.

Improved detonation modeling with CHEETAH

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

Heller, A.

1997-11-01

A Livermore software program called CHEETAH, an important, even indispensable tool for energetic materials researchers worldwide, was made more powerful in the summer of 1997 with the release of CHEETAH 2.0, an advanced version that simulates a wider variety of detonations. Derived from more than 40 years of experiments on high explosives at Lawrence Livermore and Los Alamos national laboratories, CHEETAH predicts the results from detonating a mixture of specified reactants. It operates by solving thermodynamic equations to predict detonation products and such properties as temperature, pressure, volume, and total energy released. The code is prized by synthesis chemists andmore » other researchers because it allows them to vary the starting molecules and conditions to optimize the desired performance properties. One of the Laboratory`s most popular computer codes, CHEETAH is used at more than 200 sites worldwide, including ones in England, Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, and France. Most sites are defense-related, although a few users, such as Japanese fireworks researchers, are in the civilian sector.« less

Polymer-Based Nanocomposites: An Internship Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cebe, Peggy; Cherdack, Daniel; Seyhan Ince-Gunduz, B.; Guertin, Robert; Haas, Terry; Valluzzi, Regina

2007-03-01

We report on our summer internship program in Polymer-Based Nanocomposites, for deaf and hard of hearing undergraduates who engage in classroom and laboratory research work in polymer physics. The unique attributes of this program are its emphasis on: 1. Teamwork; 2. Performance of a start-to-finish research project; 3. Physics of materials approach; and 4. Diversity. Students of all disability levels have participated in this program, including students who neither hear nor voice. The classroom and laboratory components address the materials chemistry and physics of polymer-based nanocomposites, crystallization and melting of polymers, the interaction of X-rays and light with polymers, mechanical properties of polymers, and the connection between thermal processing, structure, and ultimate properties of polymers. A set of Best Practices is developed for accommodating deaf and hard of hearing students into the laboratory setting. The goal is to bring deaf and hard of hearing students into the larger scientific community as professionals, by providing positive scientific experiences at a formative time in their educational lives.

Start-up of a sequential dry anaerobic digestion of paunch under psychrophilic and mesophilic temperatures.

PubMed

Nkemka, Valentine Nkongndem; Hao, Xiying

2018-04-01

The present laboratory study evaluated the sequential leach bed dry anaerobic digestion (DAD) of paunch under psychrophilic (22°C) and mesophilic (40°C) temperatures. Three leach bed reactors were operated under the mesophilic temperature in sequence at a solid retention time (SRT) of 40d with a new batch started 27d into the run of the previous one. A total of six batches were operated for 135d. The results showed that the mesophilic DAD of paunch was efficient, reaching methane yields of 126.9-212.1mLg -1 volatile solid (VS) and a VS reduction of 32.9-55.5%. The average daily methane production rate increased from 334.3mLd -1 to 571.4mLd -1 and 825.7mLd -1 when one, two and three leach bed reactors were in operation, respectively. The psychrophilic DAD of paunch was operated under a SRT of 100d and a total of three batches were performed in sequence for 300d with each batch starting after completion of the previous one. Improvements in the methane yield from 93.9 to 107.3 and 148.3mLg -1 VS and VS reductions of 24.8, 30.2 and 38.6% were obtained in the consecutive runs, indicating the adaptation of anaerobic microbes from mesophilic to psychrophilic temperatures. In addition, it took three runs for anaerobic microbes to reduce the volatile fatty acid accumulation observed in the first and second trials. This study demonstrates the potential of renewable energy recovery from paunch under psychrophilic and mesophilic temperatures. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

GeneXpert MTB/RIF Testing in the Management of Patients with Active Tuberculosis; A Real Life Experience from Saudi Arabia.

PubMed

Omrani, Ali S; Al-Otaibi, Mohammed F; Al-Ateah, Souad M; Al-Onazi, Fahad M; Baig, Kamran; El-Khizzi, Noura A; Albarrak, Ali M

2014-03-01

GeneXpert MTB/RIF is a real-time PCR assay with established diagnostic performance in pulmonary and extra-pulmonary forms of tuberculosis. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay to the management of patients with any form of active tuberculosis in a single large tertiary center in Saudi Arabia, with a special focus on the impact on time to start of antituberculous therapy compared with Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) smears and mycobacterial cultures. Clinical, radiological and laboratory records for all patients who were commenced on antituberculous therapy between March 2011 and February 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 140 patients were included, 38.6% of which had pulmonary tuberculosis. GeneXpert MTB/RIF was requested for only 39.2% of patients and was the only reason for starting antituberculous therapy for only 12.1%. The median time to a positive GeneXpert MTB/RIF result was 0 days (IQR 3) compared with 0 day (IQR 1) for smear microscopy (P > 0.999) and 22 days (IQR 21) for mycobacterial cultures (P < 0.001). No patients discontinued antituberculous therapy because of a negative GeneXpert MTB/RIF result. In a setting wherein physicians are highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, GeneXpert MTB/RIF was remarkably under-utilized and had only a limited impact on decisions related to starting or stopping antituberculous therapy. Cost-effectiveness and clinical utility of routine testing of all smear-negative clinical samples submitted for tuberculosis investigations by GeneXpert MTB/RIF warrant further study.

Speech Alarms Pilot Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sandor, A.; Moses, H. R.

2016-01-01

Currently on the International Space Station (ISS) and other space vehicles Caution & Warning (C&W) alerts are represented with various auditory tones that correspond to the type of event. This system relies on the crew's ability to remember what each tone represents in a high stress, high workload environment when responding to the alert. Furthermore, crew receive a year or more in advance of the mission that makes remembering the semantic meaning of the alerts more difficult. The current system works for missions conducted close to Earth where ground operators can assist as needed. On long duration missions, however, they will need to work off-nominal events autonomously. There is evidence that speech alarms may be easier and faster to recognize, especially during an off-nominal event. The Information Presentation Directed Research Project (FY07-FY09) funded by the Human Research Program included several studies investigating C&W alerts. The studies evaluated tone alerts currently in use with NASA flight deck displays along with candidate speech alerts. A follow-on study used four types of speech alerts to investigate how quickly various types of auditory alerts with and without a speech component - either at the beginning or at the end of the tone - can be identified. Even though crew were familiar with the tone alert from training or direct mission experience, alerts starting with a speech component were identified faster than alerts starting with a tone. The current study replicated the results from the previous study in a more rigorous experimental design to determine if the candidate speech alarms are ready for transition to operations or if more research is needed. Four types of alarms (caution, warning, fire, and depressurization) were presented to participants in both tone and speech formats in laboratory settings and later in the Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA). In the laboratory study, the alerts were presented by software and participants were asked to identify the alert as quickly and as accurately as possible. Reaction time and accuracy were measured. Participants identified speech alerts significantly faster than tone alerts. The HERA study investigated the performance of participants in a flight-like environment. Participants were instructed to complete items on a task list and respond to C&W alerts as they occurred. Reaction time and accuracy were measured to determine if the benefits of speech alarms are still present in an applied setting.

Using surveillance data to estimate pandemic vaccine effectiveness against laboratory confirmed influenza A(H1N1)2009 infection: two case-control studies, Spain, season 2009-2010

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Physicians of the Spanish Influenza Sentinel Surveillance System report and systematically swab patients attended to their practices for influenza-like illness (ILI). Within the surveillance system, some Spanish regions also participated in an observational study aiming at estimating influenza vaccine effectiveness (cycEVA study). During the season 2009-2010, we estimated pandemic influenza vaccine effectiveness using both the influenza surveillance data and the cycEVA study. Methods We conducted two case-control studies using the test-negative design, between weeks 48/2009 and 8/2010 of the pandemic season. The surveillance-based study included all swabbed patients in the sentinel surveillance system. The cycEVA study included swabbed patients from seven Spanish regions. Cases were laboratory-confirmed pandemic influenza A(H1N1)2009. Controls were ILI patients testing negative for any type of influenza. Variables collected in both studies included demographic data, vaccination status, laboratory results, chronic conditions, and pregnancy. Additionally, cycEVA questionnaire collected data on previous influenza vaccination, smoking, functional status, hospitalisations, visits to the general practitioners, and obesity. We used logistic regression to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR), computing pandemic influenza vaccine effectiveness as (1-OR)*100. Results We included 331 cases and 995 controls in the surveillance-based study and 85 cases and 351 controls in the cycEVA study. We detected nine (2.7%) and two (2.4%) vaccine failures in the surveillance-based and cycEVA studies, respectively. Adjusting for variables collected in surveillance database and swabbing month, pandemic influenza vaccine effectiveness was 62% (95% confidence interval (CI): -5; 87). The cycEVA vaccine effectiveness was 64% (95%CI: -225; 96) when adjusting for common variables with the surveillance system and 75% (95%CI: -293; 98) adjusting for all variables collected. Conclusion Point estimates of the pandemic influenza vaccine effectiveness suggested a protective effect of the pandemic vaccine against laboratory-confirmed influenza A(H1N1)2009 in the season 2009-2010. Both studies were limited by the low vaccine coverage and the late start of the vaccination campaign. Routine influenza surveillance provides reliable estimates and could be used for influenza vaccine effectiveness studies in future seasons taken into account the surveillance system limitations. PMID:22129083

STS-127 Firing Room

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-07-11

NASA mission managers watch the latest weather radar on a monitor in Firing Room Four of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Sunday, July 12, 2009. Endeavour is set to launch at 7:13p.m. EDT with the crew of STS-127 and start a 16-day mission that will feature five spacewalks and complete construction of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

STS-127 Firing Room

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-07-11

Bob Cabana, Director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center talks with other mission managers in Firing Room Four of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Sunday, July 12, 2009. Endeavour is set to launch at 7:13p.m. EDT with the crew of STS-127 and start a 16-day mission that will feature five spacewalks and complete construction of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Exploiting Lexical Regularities in Designing Natural Language Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-04-01

ELEMENT. PROJECT. TASKN Artificial Inteligence Laboratory A1A4WR NTumet 0) 545 Technology Square Cambridge, MA 02139 Ln *t- CONTROLLING OFFICE NAME AND...RO-RI95 922 EXPLOITING LEXICAL REGULARITIES IN DESIGNING NATURAL 1/1 LANGUAGE SYSTENS(U) MASSACHUSETTS INST OF TECH CAMBRIDGE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE...oes.ary and ftdou.Ip hr Nl wow" L,2This paper presents the lexical component of the START Question Answering system developed at the MIT Artificial

PDSparc: A Drop-In Replacement for LEON3 Written Using Synopsys Processor Designer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-24

Kate   Thurmer  MIT  Lincoln  Laboratory,  Lexington,   MA,  USA Distribution A: Public Release   ABSTRACT   Microprocessors are the...enabled appliances has opened a significant new niche: the Application Specific Standard Product (ASSP) microprocessor . These processors usually start...out as soft-cores that are parameterized at design time to realize exclusively the specific needs of the application. The microprocessor is a small

Markets, Distribution, and Exchange after Societal Cataclysm

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-01

1457- Al ) Prepared by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 operated by MARTIN MARIETTA ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC. for the U.S...to step in and restore order (Mileti et al 1975; Haas et al . 1977). Past experience with natural disasters suggests that there is not the opportunity...efficient start towards the restoration of normal routines" (Dynes et al . 1981). The problem is similar to natural disasters in that FEMA has very

Drug fever and acute inflammation from hypercytokinemia triggered by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor vildagliptin.

PubMed

Anno, Takatoshi; Kaneto, Hideaki; Kawasaki, Fumiko; Shigemoto, Ryo; Aoyama, Yumi; Kaku, Kohei; Okimoto, Niro

2018-04-01

A 69-year-old man started taking the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, vildagliptin. One week later, C-reactive protein and plasma immunoglobulin E levels were markedly elevated, and the vildagliptin was stopped. After the patient's laboratory findings were normalized, we decided to restart vildagliptin with the patient's agreement. The next day, he had a high fever, and C-reactive protein and procalcitonin levels were elevated. Although we failed to find a focus of infection, we started antibiotics therapy. Two days later, the high fever had improved, and the C-reactive protein level had decreased. A drug lymphocyte stimulation test showed a positive result for vildagliptin. We examined various kinds of cytokine and infection markers just before and after the treatment with vildagliptin. Finally, we diagnosed the patient with vildagliptin-induced drug fever, probably based on the increase of various inflammatory cytokine levels and the response to this. Taken together, we should be aware of the possibility of vildagliptin inducing drug fever and/or acute inflammation. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Diabetes Investigation published by Asian Association for the Study of Diabetes (AASD) and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

A detailed cost analysis of in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment.

PubMed

Bouwmans, Clazien A M; Lintsen, Bea M E; Eijkemans, Marinus J C; Habbema, J Dik F; Braat, Didi D M; Hakkaart, Leona

2008-02-01

To provide detailed information about costs of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment stages and to estimate the cost per IVF and ICSI treatment cycle and ongoing pregnancy. Descriptive micro-costing study. Four Dutch IVF centers. Women undergoing their first treatment cycle with IVF or ICSI. IVF or ICSI. Costs per treatment stage, per cycle started, and for ongoing pregnancy. Average costs of IVF and ICSI hormonal stimulation were euro 1630 and euro 1585; the costs of oocyte retrieval were euro 500 and euro 725, respectively. The cost of embryo transfer was euro 185. Costs per IVF and ICSI cycle started were euro 2381 and euro 2578, respectively. Costs per ongoing pregnancy were euro 10,482 and euro 10,036, respectively. Hormonal stimulation covered the main part of the costs per cycle (on average 68% and 61% for IVF and ICSI, respectively) due to the relatively high cost of medication. The costs of medication increased with increasing age of the women, irrespective of the type of treatment (IVF or ICSI). Fertilization costs (IVF laboratory) constituted 12% and 20% of the total costs of IVF and ICSI. The total cost per ICSI cycle was 8.3% higher than IVF.

Pre-treatment loss to follow-up among smear-positive TB patients in tertiary hospitals, Quetta, Pakistan.

PubMed

Wali, A; Kumar, A M V; Hinderaker, S G; Heldal, E; Qadeer, E; Fatima, R; Ullah, A; Safdar, N; Yaqoob, A; Anwar, K; Ul Haq, M

2017-03-21

Setting: Three public sector tertiary care hospitals in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, with anecdotal evidence of gaps between the diagnosis and treatment of patients with tuberculosis (TB). Objectives: To assess the proportion of pre-treatment loss to follow-up (LTFU), defined as no documented evidence of treatment initiation or referral in TB registers, among smear-positive pulmonary TB patients diagnosed in 2015, and the associated sociodemographic factors. Design: A retrospective cohort study involving the review of laboratory and TB registers. Results: Of 1110 smear-positive TB patients diagnosed (58% female, median age 40 years, 5% from outside the province or the country), 235 (21.2%) were lost to follow-up before starting treatment. Pre-treatment LTFU was higher among males; in patients residing far away, in rural areas, outside the province or the country; and in those without a mobile phone number. Conclusion: About one fifth of the smear-positive TB patients were lost to follow-up before starting treatment. Strengthening the referral and feedback mechanisms and using information technology to improve the tracing of patients is urgently required. Further qualitative research is needed to understand the reasons for pre-treatment LTFU from the patient's perspective.

Pre-treatment loss to follow-up among smear-positive TB patients in tertiary hospitals, Quetta, Pakistan

PubMed Central

Kumar, A. M. V.; Hinderaker, S. G.; Heldal, E.; Qadeer, E.; Fatima, R.; Ullah, A.; Safdar, N.; Yaqoob, A.; Anwar, K.; Ul Haq, M.

2017-01-01

Setting: Three public sector tertiary care hospitals in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan, with anecdotal evidence of gaps between the diagnosis and treatment of patients with tuberculosis (TB). Objectives: To assess the proportion of pre-treatment loss to follow-up (LTFU), defined as no documented evidence of treatment initiation or referral in TB registers, among smear-positive pulmonary TB patients diagnosed in 2015, and the associated sociodemographic factors. Design: A retrospective cohort study involving the review of laboratory and TB registers. Results: Of 1110 smear-positive TB patients diagnosed (58% female, median age 40 years, 5% from outside the province or the country), 235 (21.2%) were lost to follow-up before starting treatment. Pre-treatment LTFU was higher among males; in patients residing far away, in rural areas, outside the province or the country; and in those without a mobile phone number. Conclusion: About one fifth of the smear-positive TB patients were lost to follow-up before starting treatment. Strengthening the referral and feedback mechanisms and using information technology to improve the tracing of patients is urgently required. Further qualitative research is needed to understand the reasons for pre-treatment LTFU from the patient's perspective. PMID:28775939

Synthesis and analysis of jet fuels from shale oil and coal syncrudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Antoine, A. C.; Gallagher, J. P.

1976-01-01

The technical problems involved in converting a significant portion of a barrel of either a shale oil or coal syncrude into a suitable aviation turbine fuel were studied. TOSCO shale oil, H-Coal and COED coal syncrudes were the starting materials. They were processed by distillation and hydrocracking to produce two levels of yield (20 and 40 weight percent) of material having a distillation range of approximately 422 to 561 K (300 F to 550 F). The full distillation range 311 to 616 K (100 F to 650 F) materials were hydrotreated to meet two sets of specifications (20 and 40 volume percent aromatics, 13.5 and 12.75 weight percent H, 0.2 and 0.5 weight percent S, and 0.1 and 0.2 weight percent N). The hydrotreated materials were distilled to meet given end point and volatility requirements. The syntheses were carried out in laboratory and pilot plant equipment scaled to produce thirty-two 0.0757 cu m (2-gal)samples of jet fuel of varying defined specifications. Detailed analyses for physical and chemical properties were made on the crude starting materials and on the products.

Raising Virtual Laboratories in Australia onto global platforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wyborn, L. A.; Barker, M.; Fraser, R.; Evans, B. J. K.; Moloney, G.; Proctor, R.; Moise, A. F.; Hamish, H.

2016-12-01

Across the globe, Virtual Laboratories (VLs), Science Gateways (SGs), and Virtual Research Environments (VREs) are being developed that enable users who are not co-located to actively work together at various scales to share data, models, tools, software, workflows, best practices, etc. Outcomes range from enabling `long tail' researchers to more easily access specific data collections, to facilitating complex workflows on powerful supercomputers. In Australia, government funding has facilitated the development of a range of VLs through the National eResearch Collaborative Tools and Resources (NeCTAR) program. The VLs provide highly collaborative, research-domain oriented, integrated software infrastructures that meet user community needs. Twelve VLs have been funded since 2012, including the Virtual Geophysics Laboratory (VGL); Virtual Hazards, Impact and Risk Laboratory (VHIRL); Climate and Weather Science Laboratory (CWSLab); Marine Virtual Laboratory (MarVL); and Biodiversity and Climate Change Virtual Laboratory (BCCVL). These VLs share similar technical challenges, with common issues emerging on integration of tools, applications and access data collections via both cloud-based environments and other distributed resources. While each VL began with a focus on a specific research domain, communities of practice have now formed across the VLs around common issues, and facilitate identification of best practice case studies, and new standards. As a result, tools are now being shared where the VLs access data via data services using international standards such as ISO, OGC, W3C. The sharing of these approaches is starting to facilitate re-usability of infrastructure and is a step towards supporting interdisciplinary research. Whilst the focus of the VLs are Australia-centric, by using standards, these environments are able to be extended to analysis on other international datasets. Many VL datasets are subsets of global datasets and so extension to global is a small (and often requested) step. Similarly, most of the tools, software, and other technologies could be shared across infrastructures globally. Therefore, it is now time to better connect the Australian VLs with similar initiatives elsewhere to create international platforms that can contribute to global research challenges.

Electro-osmotic fluxes in multi-well electro-remediation processes.

PubMed

López-Vizcaíno, Rubén; Sáez, Cristina; Mena, Esperanza; Villaseñor, Jose; Cañizares, Pablo; Rodrigo, Manuel A

2011-01-01

In recent years, electrokinetic techniques on a laboratory scale have been studied but few applications have been assessed at full-scale. In this work, a mock-up plant with two rows of three electrodes positioned in semipermeable electrolyte wells has been used to study the electro-osmotic flux distribution. Water accumulated in the cathodic wells when an electric voltage gradient was applied between the two electrode-well rows. Likewise, slight differences in the water flux were observed depending on the position and number of electrodes used and on the voltage gradient applied. Results show that the electro-osmotic flow did not increase proportionally with the number of electrodes used. During the start-up of the study, there was an abrupt change in the current density, pH and conductivity of the soil portions closest to electrodic wells due to electrokinetic processes. These differences can be explained in terms of the complex current distributions from anode and cathode rows.

Adsorption Isotherm Studies of Methyl Bromide on MgO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burns, Teresa; Larese, John

2004-03-01

The adsorption of methyl bromine onto highly-uniform magnesium oxide powder was studied. Methyl bromide was condensed onto the MgO substrate at temperatures between 164 K and 179 K. The layering behavior of the gas molecules was studied by a series of vapor pressure isotherms, using a high-accuracy, computer-controller system. The isotherms clearly show first layer formation at all temperatures, with second layer formation at higher temperatures; the 2D compressibility and isosteric heat of adsorption were determined. TEB sponsored by the Department of Energy EPSCOR Grant No. DE-FG02-01ER45895. JZL sponsored by start-up funds from the University of Tennessee - Knoxville and by the Division of Materials Sciences, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, U.S. Department of Energy, under contract No. DE-AC05-00OR22725 with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, managed and operated by UT-Battelle, LLC.

Circulating elastin peptides, role in vascular pathology.

PubMed

Robert, L; Labat-Robert, J

2014-12-01

The atherosclerotic process starts with the degradation of elastic fibers. Their presence was demonstrated in the circulation as well as several of their biological properties elucidated. We described years ago a procedure to obtain large elastin peptides by organo-alkaline hydrolysis, κ-elastin. This method enabled also the preparation of specific antibodies used to determine elastin peptides, as well as anti-elastin antibodies in body fluids and tissue extracts. Elastin peptides were determined in a large number of human blood samples. Studies were carried out to explore their pharmacological properties. Similar recent studies by other laboratories confirmed our findings and arose new interest in circulating elastin peptides for their biological activities. This recent trend justified the publication of a review of the biological and pathological activities of elastin peptides demonstrated during our previous studies, subject of this article. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A general method for the inclusion of radiation chemistry in astrochemical models.

PubMed

Shingledecker, Christopher N; Herbst, Eric

2018-02-21

In this paper, we propose a general formalism that allows for the estimation of radiolysis decomposition pathways and rate coefficients suitable for use in astrochemical models, with a focus on solid phase chemistry. Such a theory can help increase the connection between laboratory astrophysics experiments and astrochemical models by providing a means for modelers to incorporate radiation chemistry into chemical networks. The general method proposed here is targeted particularly at the majority of species now included in chemical networks for which little radiochemical data exist; however, the method can also be used as a starting point for considering better studied species. We here apply our theory to the irradiation of H 2 O ice and compare the results with previous experimental data.

A Brief History of Schizosaccharomyces pombe Research: A Perspective Over the Past 70 Years.

PubMed

Fantes, Peter A; Hoffman, Charles S

2016-06-01

Since its humble start as a model organism in two European laboratories in the 1940s and 1950s, the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe has grown to become one of the best-studied eukaryotes today. This article outlines the way in which interest in S. pombe developed and spread from Europe to Japan, North America, and elsewhere from its beginnings up to the first International Meeting devoted to this yeast in 1999. We describe the expansion of S. pombe research during this period with an emphasis on many of the individual researchers involved and their interactions that resulted in the development of today's vibrant community. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

[Mycology at the Institute of Microbiology, Russian Academy of Sciences: history and prospects for the future].

PubMed

Feofilova, E P

2004-01-01

This review deals with the historical development of mycology at the Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology (Russian Academy of Sciences). Starting from the works of Academician G.A. Nadson, the review considers from the historical perspective the main achievements of the researchers of the Institute in the field of mycology, including such important subfields as the cytology, genetics, physiology, and biochemistry of mycelial fungi and yeast. The review concerns itself with the major theoretical ideas generated by the team of the Laboratory of Experimental Mycology in the course of their studies of micro- and macromycetes. Special attention is also given to recent developments in biotechnology and medicine, including the development of new drug preparations from biologically active substances of fungi.

Assuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of DNA vaccines.

PubMed

Robertson, J S; Griffiths, E

2001-02-01

Scientists in academia whose research is aimed at the development of a novel vaccine or approach to vaccination may not always be fully aware of the regulatory process by which a candidate vaccine becomes a licensed product. It is useful for such scientists to be aware of these processes as the development of a novel vaccine could be problematic owing to the starting material often being developed in a research laboratory under ill-defined conditions. This paper examines the regulatory process with respect to the development of a DNA vaccine. DNA vaccines present unusual safety considerations that must be addressed during preclinical safety studies, including adverse immunopathology, genotoxicity through integration into a vaccinees chromosomes, and the potential for the formation of anti-DNA antibodies.

Assuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of DNA vaccines.

PubMed

Robertson, James S; Griffiths, Elwyn

2006-01-01

Scientists in academia whose research is aimed at the development of a novel vaccine or approach to vaccination may not always be fully aware of the regulatory process by which a candidate vaccine becomes a licensed product. It is useful for such scientists to be aware of these processes, as the development of a novel vaccine could be problematic as a result of the starting material often being developed in a research laboratory under ill-defined conditions. This chapter examines the regulatory process with respect to the development of a DNA vaccine. DNA vaccines present unusual safety considerations which must be addressed during nonclinical safety studies, including adverse immunopathology, genotoxicity through integration into a vaccinee's chromosomes and the potential for the formation of anti-DNA antibodies.

Bodega Ocean Observing Node (BOON).

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Largier, J. L.; Chow, V. I.; Williams, S. L.; Botsford, L. W.; Morgan, S. G.; Nyden, B.; Tustin, J. A.; McAfee, S.; Shideler, D.

2004-12-01

The Bodega Ocean Observing Node (BOON) is comprised of radar mapping of surface currents, a moored current profiler, and shoreline oceanographic and meteorological observations. Ongoing shoreline data on temperature and salinity date back to 1955, with continuous records of sealevel, wind, meteorology, and chlorophyll fluorescence starting more recently. Radar observations started in 2001 with deployment of two CODAR antennae. Together with a third CODAR unit deployed in 2002, these provide coverage from Pt Reyes north to the CODE line. Real-time ADCP data from the mooring started in late 2004. Plans include nearshore wave data, CTD/fluorescence data from the mooring, and deployment of a nutrient sensor at the shoreline. This coastal ocean observing node is part of the state-funded COCMP-NC program and the CeNCOOS regional association for central and northern California. Ancillary regional data are available on offshore winds (NDBC buoys), offshore waves (CDIP buoy), river flow, and satellite observations. The value of this suite of measurements is built on (1) detailed understanding of circulation, derived from WEST, CODE, and other prior studies of this region, including mesoscale atmosphere and ocean modeling, (2) active integration of circulation patterns in ongoing studies of planktonic and benthic ecology, and (3) direct interaction with local, state and federal agencies with interest in this region. To-date, the ongoing data series have shown potential for improved understanding and monitoring of fishery populations such as salmon and crab, as well as water quality concerns including oil spills and toxic pollutants. Through an active involvement in local studies and environmental management issues, BOON seeks to develop alternatives to supply-side thinking in the design of coastal ocean observing systems. BOON is based at the Bodega Marine Laboratory and thus provides invaluable support for academic study of more fundamental questions, such as carbon budgets in coastal upwelling systems and the importance of the spatial structure of coastal pelagic habitat.

Some insights on the dust properties of nearby galaxies, as seen with Herschel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galliano, Frédéric

2017-12-01

Nearby galaxies are particularly relevant laboratories to study dust evolution due to the diversity of physical conditions they harbor and to the wealth of data at our disposal. In this paper, we review several recent advances in this field, mainly based on Herschel observations. We first discuss the problems linked with our ignorance of grain emissivities, and show that it can be constrained in some cases. New models are starting to incorporate these constraints. We then present methodological issues encountered when fitting spectral energy distributions, leading to biases in derived dust properties, and some attempts to solve them. Subsequently, we review studies scrutinizing dust evolution: (i) from a global point of view, inferring long term cosmic dust evolution; (ii) from a local point of view, looking for indices of dust processing in the ISM.

Pyroclastics Northeast of Gassendi Crater: Discovery/Characteristics/Implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giguere, T. A.; Hawke, B. R.; Trang, D.; Gaddis, L. R.; Lawrence, S. J.; Stopar, J. D.; Gustafson, J. O.; Boyce, J. M.; Gillis-Davis, J. J.

2017-01-01

In our ongoing effort to better understand lunar volcanism on the Moon, we are investigating pyroclastic deposits in the Gassendi region. Interest in pyroclastics has remained high due to the availability of high-resolution data (LRO, Kaguya), which is used to build on previous remote sensing studies [e.g., 1, 2, 3] and also extensive studies of lunar pyroclastic glasses [4, 5]. Analyses conducted in the laboratory of pyroclastic spheres from several deposits show that this volcanic material had a greater depth of origin and lesser fractional crystallization than mare basalts [e.g., 4, 6]. Data indicates that pyroclastic glasses are the best examples of primitive materials on the Moon, and they are important for both characterizing the lunar interior and as a starting place for under-standing the origin and evolution of lunar basaltic magmatism [2].

Primary sacral hydatid cyst. A case report.

PubMed

Joshi, Nayana; Hernandez-Martinez, Alejandro; Seijas-Vazquez, Roberto

2007-10-01

This case report highlights an unusual osseous spinal presentation of a well described disease, hydatidosis. A 59-year-old woman presented with increasing back pain and bilateral radiculopathy. Examination disclosed symptoms of spinal stenosis and urinary incontinence. Radiographs showed an expansive lytic lesion affecting the pelvic bones with destruction of the bone cortex. Laboratory analyses were performed and the patient underwent CT and MRI studies. Serology for Echinococcus was positive. When assessing sciatica, low back pain or lower limb weakness the pelvic cavity should be examined for hidden disease that might explain the neurological symptoms. Hydatid disease of bone should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any bone mass discovered in the human body. Diagnosis was delayed in this case because the pelvic cavity was not studied when radiculopathy symptoms started and there was no coexisting visceral involvement.

Microfluidic cartridges for DNA purification and genotyping processed in standard laboratory instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Focke, Maximilian; Mark, Daniel; Stumpf, Fabian; Müller, Martina; Roth, Günter; Zengerle, Roland; von Stetten, Felix

2011-06-01

Two microfluidic cartridges intended for upgrading standard laboratory instruments with automated liquid handling capability by use of centrifugal forces are presented. The first microfluidic cartridge enables purification of DNA from human whole blood and is operated in a standard laboratory centrifuge. The second microfluidic catridge enables genotyping of pathogens by geometrically multiplexed real-time PCR. It is operated in a slightly modified off-the-shelf thermal cycler. Both solutions aim at smart and cost-efficient ways to automate work flows in laboratories. The DNA purification cartridge automates all liquid handling steps starting from a lysed blood sample to PCR ready DNA. The cartridge contains two manually crushable glass ampoules with liquid reagents. The DNA yield extracted from a 32 μl blood sample is 192 +/- 30 ng which corresponds to 53 +/- 8% of a reference extraction. The genotyping cartridge is applied to analyse isolates of the multi-resistant Staphyloccus aureus (MRSA) by real-time PCR. The wells contain pre-stored dry reagents such as primers and probes. Evaluation of the system with 44 genotyping assays showed a 100% specificity and agreement with the reference assays in standard tubes. The lower limit of detection was well below 10 copies of DNA per reaction.

Physical examination instead of laboratory tests for most infants born to mothers colonized with group B Streptococcus: support for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2010 recommendations.

PubMed

Cantoni, Luigi; Ronfani, Luca; Da Riol, Rosalia; Demarini, Sergio

2013-08-01

To compare 2 approaches in the management of neonates at risk for group B Streptococcus early-onset sepsis: laboratory tests plus standardized physical examination and standardized physical examination alone. Prospective, sequential study over 2 consecutive 12-month periods, carried out in the maternity hospitals of the region Friuli-Venezia Giulia (north-eastern Italy). All term infants were included (7628 in the first period, 7611 in the second). In the first period, complete blood count and blood culture were required for all infants at risk, followed by a 48-hour period of observation with a standardized physical examination. In the second period, only standardized physical examination was performed. Study outcomes were: (1) number of neonates treated with antibiotics; and (2) time between onset of signs of possible sepsis and beginning of treatment. There was no difference between the 2 periods in the rate of maternal colonization (19.7% vs 19.8%, P = .8), or in other risk factors. The interval between onset of signs of sepsis and starting of antibiotics was not different in the 2 periods. Significantly fewer infants were treated with antibiotics in the second period (0.5% vs 1.2%, P < .001). Laboratory tests together with standardized physical examination seem to offer no advantage over standardized physical examination alone; the latter was associated with fewer antibiotic treatments. Our results are in agreement with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's 2010 recommendations. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Status of the CUORE and results from the CUORE-0 neutrinoless double beta decay experiments

DOE PAGES

Sisti, M.; Artusa, D. R.; Avignone, F. T.; ...

2016-05-31

CUORE is a 741 kg array of TeO 2 bolometers for the search of neutrinoless double beta decay of 130Te. The detector is being constructed at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Italy, where it will start taking data in 2015. If the target background of 0.01 counts/(keV·kg·y) will be reached, in five years of data taking CUORE will have a 1σ half life sensitivity of 10 26y. CUORE-0 is a smaller experiment constructed to test and demonstrate the performances expected for CUORE. The detector is a single tower of 52 CUORE-like bolometers that started taking data in spring 2013.more » The status and perspectives of CUORE will be discussed, and the first CUORE-0 data will be presented.« less

Severe polymyositis due to Toxoplasma gondii in an adult immunocompetent patient: a case report and review of the literature.

PubMed

Cuomo, G; D'Abrosca, V; Rizzo, V; Nardiello, S; La Montagna, G; Gaeta, G B; Valentini, G

2013-08-01

Toxoplasmosis, a worldwide zoonosis caused by a coccidian parasite Toxoplasma gondii, is more often asymptomatic in immunocompetent patients. We report the case of a 38-year-old immunocompetent male with a polymyositis as the presenting manifestation of T. gondii infection. The patient was hospitalized for a 30-day history of fever (T max 39.5°C), muscle pain, and progressive weakness of the muscles. A diagnosis of polymyositis was made, and he was started on corticosteroid treatment, which caused no reduction of symptoms. After finding a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for T. gondii, together with additional clinical findings, a diagnosis of acute toxoplasmosis was made. Specific treatment with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine was started, with a progressive reduction of symptoms and normalization of laboratory tests.

Occidental vertical modified in situ process for the recovery of oil from oil shale. Phase II. Quarterly progress report, September 1, 1980-November 30, 1980

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

Not Available

1981-01-01

The major activities at OOSI's Logan Wash site during the quarter were: mining the voids at all levels for Retorts 7 and 8; blasthole drilling; tracer testing MR4; conducting the start-up and burner tests on MR3; continuing the surface facility construction; and conducting Retorts 7 and 8 related Rock Fragmentation tests. Environmental monitoring continued during the quarter, and the data and analyses are discussed. Sandia National Laboratory and Laramie Energy Technology Center (LETC) personnel were active in the DOE support of the MR3 burner and start-up tests. In the last section of this report the final oil inventory for Retortmore » 6 production is detailed. The total oil produced by Retort 6 was 55,696 barrels.« less

Status of the CUORE and results from the CUORE-0 neutrinoless double beta decay experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sisti, M.; Artusa, D. R.; Avignone, F. T.; Azzolini, O.; Balata, M.; Banks, T. I.; Bari, G.; Beeman, J.; Bellini, F.; Bersani, A.; Biassoni, M.; Brofferio, C.; Bucci, C.; Cai, X. Z.; Camacho, A.; Caminata, A.; Canonica, L.; Cao, X. G.; Capelli, S.; Cappelli, L.; Carbone, L.; Cardani, L.; Casali, N.; Cassina, L.; Chiesa, D.; Chott, N.; Clemenza, M.; Copello, S.; Cosmelli, C.; Cremonesi, O.; Creswick, R. J.; Cushman, J. S.; Dafinei, I.; Dally, A.; Datskov, V.; Dell'Oro, S.; Deninno, M. M.; Di Domizio, S.; di Vacri, M. L.; Drobizhev, A.; Ejzak, L.; Fang, D. Q.; Farach, H. A.; Faverzani, M.; Fernandes, G.; Ferri, E.; Ferroni, F.; Fiorini, E.; Franceschi, M. A.; Freedman, S. J.; Fujikawa, B. K.; Giachero, A.; Gironi, L.; Giuliani, A.; Gorla, P.; Gotti, C.; Gutierrez, T. D.; Haller, E. E.; Han, K.; Heeger, K. M.; Hennings-Yeomans, R.; Hickerson, K. P.; Huang, H. Z.; Kadel, R.; Keppel, G.; Kolomensky, Yu. G.; Li, Y. L.; Ligi, C.; Lim, K. E.; Liu, X.; Ma, Y. G.; Maiano, C.; Maino, M.; Martinez, M.; Maruyama, R. H.; Mei, Y.; Moggi, N.; Morganti, S.; Napolitano, T.; Nastasi, M.; Nisi, S.; Nones, C.; Norman, E. B.; Nucciotti, A.; O'Donnell, T.; Orio, F.; Orlandi, D.; Ouellet, J. L.; Pagliarone, C. E.; Pallavicini, M.; Palmieri, V.; Pattavina, L.; Pavan, M.; Pedretti, M.; Pessina, G.; Pettinacci, V.; Piperno, G.; Pira, C.; Pirro, S.; Pozzi, S.; Previtali, E.; Rosenfeld, C.; Rusconi, C.; Sala, E.; Sangiorgio, S.; Scielzo, N. D.; Smith, A. R.; Taffarello, L.; Tenconi, M.; Terranova, F.; Tian, W. D.; Tomei, C.; Trentalange, S.; Ventura, G.; Vignati, M.; Wang, B. S.; Wang, H. W.; Wielgus, L.; Wilson, J.; Winslow, L. A.; Wise, T.; Woodcraft, A.; Zanotti, L.; Zarra, C.; Zhang, G. Q.; Zhu, B. X.; Zucchelli, S.

2016-04-01

CUORE is a 741 kg array of TeO2 bolometers for the search of neutrinoless double beta decay of 130Te. The detector is being constructed at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Italy, where it will start taking data in 2015. If the target background of 0.01 counts / (keV ṡkg ṡy) will be reached, in five years of data taking CUORE will have a 1σ half life sensitivity of 1026 y. CUORE-0 is a smaller experiment constructed to test and demonstrate the performances expected for CUORE. The detector is a single tower of 52 CUORE-like bolometers that started taking data in spring 2013. The status and perspectives of CUORE will be discussed, and the first CUORE-0 data will be presented.

Implementation of quality management for clinical bacteriology in low-resource settings.

PubMed

Barbé, B; Yansouni, C P; Affolabi, D; Jacobs, J

2017-07-01

The declining trend of malaria and the recent prioritization of containment of antimicrobial resistance have created a momentum to implement clinical bacteriology in low-resource settings. Successful implementation relies on guidance by a quality management system (QMS). Over the past decade international initiatives were launched towards implementation of QMS in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. To describe the progress towards accreditation of medical laboratories and to identify the challenges and best practices for implementation of QMS in clinical bacteriology in low-resource settings. Published literature, online reports and websites related to the implementation of laboratory QMS, accreditation of medical laboratories and initiatives for containment of antimicrobial resistance. Apart from the limitations of infrastructure, equipment, consumables and staff, QMS are challenged with the complexity of clinical bacteriology and the healthcare context in low-resource settings (small-scale laboratories, attitudes and perception of staff, absence of laboratory information systems). Likewise, most international initiatives addressing laboratory health strengthening have focused on public health and outbreak management rather than on hospital based patient care. Best practices to implement quality-assured clinical bacteriology in low-resource settings include alignment with national regulations and public health reference laboratories, participating in external quality assurance programmes, support from the hospital's management, starting with attainable projects, conducting error review and daily bench-side supervision, looking for locally adapted solutions, stimulating ownership and extending existing training programmes to clinical bacteriology. The implementation of QMS in clinical bacteriology in hospital settings will ultimately boost a culture of quality to all sectors of healthcare in low-resource settings. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Improving laboratory data entry quality using Six Sigma.

PubMed

Elbireer, Ali; Le Chasseur, Julie; Jackson, Brooks

2013-01-01

The Uganda Makerere University provides clinical laboratory support to over 70 clients in Uganda. With increased volume, manual data entry errors have steadily increased, prompting laboratory managers to employ the Six Sigma method to evaluate and reduce their problems. The purpose of this paper is to describe how laboratory data entry quality was improved by using Six Sigma. The Six Sigma Quality Improvement (QI) project team followed a sequence of steps, starting with defining project goals, measuring data entry errors to assess current performance, analyzing data and determining data-entry error root causes. Finally the team implemented changes and control measures to address the root causes and to maintain improvements. Establishing the Six Sigma project required considerable resources and maintaining the gains requires additional personnel time and dedicated resources. After initiating the Six Sigma project, there was a 60.5 percent reduction in data entry errors from 423 errors a month (i.e. 4.34 Six Sigma) in the first month, down to an average 166 errors/month (i.e. 4.65 Six Sigma) over 12 months. The team estimated the average cost of identifying and fixing a data entry error to be $16.25 per error. Thus, reducing errors by an average of 257 errors per month over one year has saved the laboratory an estimated $50,115 a year. The Six Sigma QI project provides a replicable framework for Ugandan laboratory staff and other resource-limited organizations to promote quality environment. Laboratory staff can deliver excellent care at a lower cost, by applying QI principles. This innovative QI method of reducing data entry errors in medical laboratories may improve the clinical workflow processes and make cost savings across the health care continuum.

``Planetário e Teatro Digital Johannes Kepler'' and its Institutional Pedagogical Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faria, R. Z.; Calil, M. R.; Perez, E. R.; Kanashiro, M.; Silva, L. C. P.; Calipo, F.

2014-10-01

This work relates the reception of schools, started on August 2012, in the astronomic laboratory of the "Planetário e Teatro Digital Johannes Kepler", located in the "Sabina - Escola Parque do Conhecimento" in Santo André, São Paulo. The idealization of this project, authorship of Marcos Calil, PhD, consists in four apprenticeship environments disposed around the planetary dome. They make reference to the System Sun - Earth - Moon (Tellurium), Solar System, Astronautic and Stars. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays the astronomic laboratory is used by Santo André municipal schools for focused lessons, being possible on Thursdays scheduling for private and public schools. On weekends and holidays is opened for the visitors. Since the inauguration to the beginning of activities with students, the monitor team was guided and trained on contents of Astronomy and Aeronautic to execute the schools service. This is done in four stages, which are: reception, course trough the astronomic laboratory, dome session and activities closure. During the reception the acquaintance rules are passed on for a better visit. Before starting the course the monitors do a survey about the previous knowledge of the students. On the astronomic laboratory resources of the environment are used to explain the contents of Astronomy and Astronautic, always considering the age group and the curriculum developed in classroom. After the course the students watch a planetary session supporting the contents seen on the astronomic laboratory. At the end a feedback is done with the students about the subject discussed. During the visit the teachers fulfill an evaluation about the place and the service. From August 2012 to November 2012 were attended between municipal, public and private schools. From the 4932 students attended, 92% belonged to the municipal network, 5% to the private network and 3% to the public network. From the 189 evaluations done by the teachers, 97.8% were satisfied, 2.1% partially satisfied e 0.1% unsatisfied with the reception promoted by the team of the planetary. Meantime the satisfaction presented on the evaluation is thought that the use of non-formal places is an ally of apprenticeship. The ``Planetário e Teatro Digital Johannes Kepler'' by its team collaborates for an education and divulgation of the Astronomy and Astronautic make part of the reality and quotidian of the students of the city of Santo André.

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

Diefenderfer, Heida L.; Johnson, Gary E.; Sather, Nichole K.

This report describes the 2009 research conducted under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE or Corps) project EST-09-P-01, titled “Evaluation of Life History Diversity, Habitat Connectivity, and Survival Benefits Associated with Habitat Restoration Actions in the Lower Columbia River and Estuary.” The research was conducted by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Marine Science Laboratory and Hydrology Group, in partnership with the University of Washington, School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, Columbia Basin Research, and Earl Dawley (NOAA Fisheries, retired). This Columbia River Fish Mitigation Program project, referred to as “Salmonid Benefits,” was started in FY 2009 to evaluate themore » state-of-the science regarding the ability to quantify the benefits to listed salmonids1 of habitat restoration actions in the lower Columbia River and estuary.« less

Renovation and Expansion of the Caspary Research Building. Final Report

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

Grassia, V. L.

2004-02-07

Critical to the Hospital's rebuilding efforts have been its public partners at the federal, state, and local government levels who have made a major financial commitment to renovating the Hospital's research infrastructure. To date, the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) has been awarded a total of nearly $8.5 million to create and equip new, state-of-the-art laboratories for scientific investigations. The modernization of the Hospital's research facilities was jump-started in 1998 with a $950,000 seed grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to renovate laboratories for immunology research in the Caspary Research Building. Coupled with a matching $5.5 million commitmentmore » from HSS, this infusion of NIH funding laid the groundwork for an overhaul of all of the Hospital's research space.« less

Production of photoionized plasmas in the laboratory with x-ray line radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, S.; Irwin, R.; Warwick, J. R.; Gribakin, G. F.; Sarri, G.; Keenan, F. P.; Riley, D.; Rose, S. J.; Hill, E. G.; Ferland, G. J.; Han, B.; Wang, F.; Zhao, G.

2018-06-01

In this paper we report the experimental implementation of a theoretically proposed technique for creating a photoionized plasma in the laboratory using x-ray line radiation. Using a Sn laser plasma to irradiate an Ar gas target, the photoionization parameter, ξ =4 π F /Ne , reached values of order 50 ergcm s-1 , where F is the radiation flux in ergc m-2s-1 . The significance of this is that this technique allows us to mimic effective spectral radiation temperatures in excess of 1 keV. We show that our plasma starts to be collisionally dominated before the peak of the x-ray drive. However, the technique is extendable to higher-energy laser systems to create plasmas with parameters relevant to benchmarking codes used to model astrophysical objects.

Numerical modeling of the fracture process in a three-unit all-ceramic fixed partial denture.

PubMed

Kou, Wen; Kou, Shaoquan; Liu, Hongyuan; Sjögren, Göran

2007-08-01

The main objectives were to examine the fracture mechanism and process of a ceramic fixed partial denture (FPD) framework under simulated mechanical loading using a recently developed numerical modeling code, the R-T(2D) code, and also to evaluate the suitability of R-T(2D) code as a tool for this purpose. Using the recently developed R-T(2D) code the fracture mechanism and process of a 3U yttria-tetragonal zirconia polycrystal ceramic (Y-TZP) FPD framework was simulated under static loading. In addition, the fracture pattern obtained using the numerical simulation was compared with the fracture pattern obtained in a previous laboratory test. The result revealed that the framework fracture pattern obtained using the numerical simulation agreed with that observed in a previous laboratory test. Quasi-photoelastic stress fringe pattern and acoustic emission showed that the fracture mechanism was tensile failure and that the crack started at the lower boundary of the framework. The fracture process could be followed both in step-by-step and step-in-step. Based on the findings in the current study, the R-T(2D) code seems suitable for use as a complement to other tests and clinical observations in studying stress distribution, fracture mechanism and fracture processes in ceramic FPD frameworks.

Experimental, Theoretical and Computational Studies of Plasma-Based Concepts for Future High Energy Accelerators

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

Joshi, Chan; Mori, W.

2013-10-21

This is the final report on the DOE grant number DE-FG02-92ER40727 titled, “Experimental, Theoretical and Computational Studies of Plasma-Based Concepts for Future High Energy Accelerators.” During this grant period the UCLA program on Advanced Plasma Based Accelerators, headed by Professor C. Joshi has made many key scientific advances and trained a generation of students, many of whom have stayed in this research field and even started research programs of their own. In this final report however, we will focus on the last three years of the grant and report on the scientific progress made in each of the four tasksmore » listed under this grant. Four tasks are focused on: Plasma Wakefield Accelerator Research at FACET, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, In House Research at UCLA’s Neptune and 20 TW Laser Laboratories, Laser-Wakefield Acceleration (LWFA) in Self Guided Regime: Experiments at the Callisto Laser at LLNL, and Theory and Simulations. Major scientific results have been obtained in each of the four tasks described in this report. These have led to publications in the prestigious scientific journals, graduation and continued training of high quality Ph.D. level students and have kept the U.S. at the forefront of plasma-based accelerators research field.« less

Kinetics of Polymer-Fullerene Phase Separation during Solvent Annealing Studied by Table-Top X-ray Scattering.

PubMed

Vegso, Karol; Siffalovic, Peter; Jergel, Matej; Nadazdy, Peter; Nadazdy, Vojtech; Majkova, Eva

2017-03-08

Solvent annealing is an efficient way of phase separation in polymer-fullerene blends to optimize bulk heterojunction morphology of active layer in polymer solar cells. To track the process in real time across all relevant stages of solvent evaporation, laboratory-based in situ small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering measurements were applied simultaneously to a model P3HT:PCBM blend dissolved in dichlorobenzene. The PCBM molecule agglomeration starts at ∼7 wt % concentration of solid content of the blend in solvent. Although PCBM agglomeration is slowed-down at ∼10 wt % of solid content, the rate constant of phase separation is not changed, suggesting agglomeration and reordering of P3HT molecular chains. Having the longest duration, this stage most affects BHJ morphology. Phase separation is accelerated rapidly at concentration of ∼25 wt %, having the same rate constant as the growth of P3HT crystals. P3HT crystallization is driving force for phase separation at final stages before a complete solvent evaporation, having no visible temporal overlap with PCBM agglomeration. For the first time, such a study was done in laboratory demonstrating potential of the latest generation table-top high-brilliance X-ray source as a viable alternative before more sophisticated X-ray scattering experiments at synchrotron facilities are performed.

LC-MS screening techniques for wastewater analysis and analytical data handling strategies: Sartans and their transformation products as an example.

PubMed

Letzel, Thomas; Bayer, Anne; Schulz, Wolfgang; Heermann, Alexandra; Lucke, Thomas; Greco, Giorgia; Grosse, Sylvia; Schüssler, Walter; Sengl, Manfred; Letzel, Marion

2015-10-01

A large number of anthropogenic trace contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, their human metabolites and further transformation products (TPs) enter wastewater treatment plants on a daily basis. A mixture of known, expected, and unknown molecules are discharged into the receiving aquatic environment because only partial elimination occurs for many of these chemicals during physical, biological and chemical treatment processes. In this study, an array of LC-MS methods from three collaborating laboratories was applied to detect and identify anthropogenic trace contaminants and their TPs in different waters. Starting with theoretical predictions of TPs, an efficient workflow using the combination of target, suspected-target and non-target strategies for the identification of these TPs in the environment was developed. These techniques and strategies were applied to study anti-hypertensive drugs from the sartan group (i.e., candesartan, eprosartan, irbesartan, olmesartan, and valsartan). Degradation experiments were performed in lab-scale wastewater treatment plants, and a screening workflow including an inter-laboratory approach was used for the identification of transformation products in the effluent samples. Subsequently, newly identified compounds were successfully analyzed in effluents of real wastewater treatment plants and river waters. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Oviposition by Female Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae): Description and Time Budget Analysis of Behaviors in Laboratory Studies.

PubMed

Sambaraju, Kishan R; Donelson, Sarah L; Bozic, Janko; Phillips, Thomas W

2016-01-22

The oviposition behavior of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a major insect pest of durable stored foods, was studied in small experimental arenas under laboratory conditions using videography, and a time budget analysis of its behaviors was documented. Resting gravid females typically became active shortly after the start of the scotophase. The characteristic behaviors exhibited by mated females prior to oviposition included antennal movement, grooming of antennae and mouth parts using the forelegs, walking or flying, and abdomen bending and dragging. Pre-oviposition behaviors such as antennal grooming and walking or flying were observed to alternate several times before females commenced the abdominal dragging behavior that preceded egg laying. Eggs were laid singly or sometimes in groups, either freely or stuck to food material. Gravid females showed little or no movement during the photophase; however, they actively flew and oviposited during the scotophase. Females allocated only a small portion of their time to oviposition while the rest of the time was spent away from food. Females oviposited on food material by making repeated visits, predominantly during the first four hours of the scotophase. Visits and time spent on food declined as the scotophase advanced.

Oviposition by Female Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae): Description and Time Budget Analysis of Behaviors in Laboratory Studies

PubMed Central

Sambaraju, Kishan R.; Donelson, Sarah L.; Bozic, Janko; Phillips, Thomas W.

2016-01-01

The oviposition behavior of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a major insect pest of durable stored foods, was studied in small experimental arenas under laboratory conditions using videography, and a time budget analysis of its behaviors was documented. Resting gravid females typically became active shortly after the start of the scotophase. The characteristic behaviors exhibited by mated females prior to oviposition included antennal movement, grooming of antennae and mouth parts using the forelegs, walking or flying, and abdomen bending and dragging. Pre-oviposition behaviors such as antennal grooming and walking or flying were observed to alternate several times before females commenced the abdominal dragging behavior that preceded egg laying. Eggs were laid singly or sometimes in groups, either freely or stuck to food material. Gravid females showed little or no movement during the photophase; however, they actively flew and oviposited during the scotophase. Females allocated only a small portion of their time to oviposition while the rest of the time was spent away from food. Females oviposited on food material by making repeated visits, predominantly during the first four hours of the scotophase. Visits and time spent on food declined as the scotophase advanced. PMID:26805893

Final Report of a CRADA Between Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the Ford Motor Company (CRADA No. PNNL/265): “Deactivation Mechanisms of Base Metal/Zeolite Urea Selective Catalytic Reduction Materials, and Development of Zeolite-Based Hydrocarbon Adsorber Materials”

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

Gao, Feng; Kwak, Ja Hun; Lee, Jong H.

2013-02-14

Reducing NOx emissions and particulate matter (PM) are primary concerns for diesel vehicles required to meet current LEV II and future LEV III emission standards which require 90+% NOx conversion. Currently, urea SCR as the NOx reductant and a Catalyzed Diesel Particulate Filter (CDPF) are being used for emission control system components by Ford Motor Company for 2010 and beyond diesel vehicles. Because the use of this technology for vehicle applications is new, the relative lack of experience makes it especially challenging to satisfy durability requirements. Of particular concern is being able to realistically simulate actual field aging of themore » catalyst systems under laboratory conditions. This is necessary both as a rapid assessment tool for verifying improved performance and certifiability of new catalyst formulations, and to develop a good understanding of deactivation mechanisms that can be used to develop improved catalyst materials. In addition to NOx and PM, the hydrocarbon (HC) emission standards are expected to become much more stringent during the next few years. Meanwhile, the engine-out HC emissions are expected to increase and/or be more difficult to remove. Since HC can be removed only when the catalyst becomes warm enough for its oxidation, three-way catalyst (TWC) and diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) formulations often contain proprietary zeolite materials to hold the HC produced during the cold start period until the catalyst reaches its operating temperature (e.g., >200°C). Unfortunately, much of trapped HC tends to be released before the catalyst reaches the operating temperature. Among materials effective for trapping HC during the catalyst warm-up period, siliceous zeolites are commonly used because of their high surface area and high stability under typical operating conditions. However, there has been little research on the physical properties of these materials related to the adsorption and release of various hydrocarbon species found in the engine exhaust. For these reasons, automakers and engine manufacturers have difficulty improving their catalytic converters for meeting the stringent HC emission standards. In this collaborative program, scientists and engineers in the Institute for Integrated Catalysis at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and at Ford Motor Company have investigated laboratory- and engine-aged SCR catalysts, containing mainly base metal zeolites. These studies are leading to a better understanding of various aging factors that impact the long-term performance of SCR catalysts and improve the correlation between laboratory and engine aging, saving experimental time and cost. We have also studied materials effective for the temporary storage of HC species during the cold-start period. In particular, we have examined the adsorption and desorption of various HC species produced during the combustion with different fuels (e.g., gasoline, E85, diesel) over potential HC adsorber materials, and measured the kinetic parameters to update Ford’s HC adsorption model. Since this CRADA has now been completed, in this final report we will provide brief summaries of most of the work carried out on this CRADA over the last several years.« less

KEY COMPARISON: Results of the APMP Pressure key comparison APMP.M.P-K1c in gas media and gauge mode from 0.4 MPa to 4.0 MPa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bandyopadhyay, A. K.; Woo, Sam Yong; Fitzgerald, Mark; Man, John; Ooiwa, Akira; Jescheck, M.; Jian, Wu; Fatt, Chen Soo; Chan, T. K.; Moore, Ken; El-Tawil, Alaaeldin A. E.

2003-01-01

This report summarizes the results of a regional key comparison (APMP-IC-2-97) under the aegis of the Asia Pacific Metrology Program (APMP) for pressure measurements in gas media and in gauge mode from 0.4 MPa to 4.0 MPa. The transfer standard was a pressure-balance with a piston-cylinder assembly with nominal effective area 8.4 mm2 (V-407) and was supplied by the National Metrology Institute of Japan [NMIJ]. Ten standard laboratories from the APMP region with one specially invited laboratory from the EUROMET region, namely Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Germany, participated in this comparison. The comparison started in October 1998 and was completed in May 2001. The pilot laboratory prepared the calibration procedure [1] as per the guidelines of APMP and the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) [2-4]. Detailed instructions for performing this key comparison were provided in the calibration protocol [1] and the required data were described in: (1) Annex 3 - characteristics of the laboratory standards, (2) Annex 4 - the effective area (A'p'/mm2) (the prime indicates values based on measured quantities) at 23°C of the travelling standard as a function of nominal pressure (p'/MPa) (five cycles both increasing and decreasing pressures at ten pre-determined pressure points) and (3) Annex 5 - the average effective area at 23°C (A'p'/mm2) obtained for each pressure p'/MPa with all uncertainty statements. The pilot laboratory processed the information and the data provided by the participants for these three annexes, starting with the information about the standards as provided in Annex 3. Based on this information, the participating laboratories are classified into two categories: (I) laboratories that are maintaining primary standards, and (II) laboratories that are maintaining standards loosely classified as secondary standards with a clear traceability as per norm of the BIPM. It is observed that out of these eleven laboratories, six laboratories have primary standards [Category (I)], the remaining five laboratories are placed in Category (II). The obtained data were compiled and processed under the same program as per the Consultative Committee for Mass and Related Quantities (CCM)/BIPM guidelines. From the data of Category (I), we evaluated the APMP reference value as a function of p'/MPa. Then, we estimated the relative difference of the A'p' values with reference to the APMP reference value for all participating laboratories and we observed that they agree well within their expanded uncertainties. We further estimated the effective area at null pressure and at 23°C (A'0/mm2) and the pressure distortion coefficient (lambda'/MPa-1) of the transfer standard for all the participating laboratories. We then estimated the relative deviation of the A'0/mm2 from the reference value for all eleven laboratories and compared this with their estimated expanded uncertainties. The result is once again extremely encouraging and all these eleven laboratories are agreeing within their estimated maximum expanded uncertainties. We also estimated the degree of equivalence between any two participating laboratories following a matrix mechanism. This once again agrees extremely well within the estimated relative standard uncertainty, which is derived for the two participating laboratories. Finally, a new method has been introduced to evaluate these results and establish a link to CCM.P-K1c and EUROMET.M.P-K2 at two nominal pressures, near 1 MPa and 4 MPa. Again the results show an agreement of all participating laboratories in the present comparison to within the estimated expanded uncertainties using a coverage factor k = 2. Main text. To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the APMP, according to the provisions of the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).

HF-START: A Regional Radio Propagation Simulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hozumi, K.; Maruyama, T.; Saito, S.; Nakata, H.; Rougerie, S.; Yokoyama, T.; Jin, H.; Tsugawa, T.; Ishii, M.

2017-12-01

HF-START (HF Simulator Targeting for All-users' Regional Telecommunications) is a user-friendly simulator developed to meet the needs of space weather users. Prediction of communications failure due to space weather disturbances is of high priority. Space weather users from various backgrounds with high economic impact, i.e. airlines, telecommunication companies, GPS-related companies, insurance companies, international amateur radio union, etc., recently increase. Space weather information provided by Space Weather Information Center of NICT is, however, too professional to be understood and effectively used by the users. To overcome this issue, I try to translate the research level data to the user level data based on users' needs and provide an immediate usable data. HF-START is positioned to be a space weather product out of laboratory based truly on users' needs. It is originally for radio waves in HF band (3-30 MHz) but higher frequencies up to L band are planned to be covered. Regional ionospheric data in Japan and southeast Asia are employed as a reflector of skywave mode propagation. GAIA (Ground-to-topside model of Atmosphere and Ionosphere for Aeronomy) model will be used as ionospheric input for global simulation. To evaluate HF-START, an evaluation campaign for Japan region will be launched in coming months. If the campaign successes, it will be expanded to southeast Asia region as well. The final goal of HF-START is to provide the near-realtime necessary radio parameters as well as the warning message of radio communications failure to the radio and space weather users.

STS-127 Firing Room

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-07-11

John P. Shannon, Manager, NASA Space Shuttle Program Office watches the latest weather radar in Firing Room Four of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Sunday, July 12, 2009. Endeavour is set to launch at 7:13p.m. EDT with the crew of STS-127 and start a 16-day mission that will feature five spacewalks and complete construction of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Effects of Different Fabrication Techniques on the Yttrium-Barium-Copper Oxide High Temperature Superconductor

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-12-01

and barium peroxide. The eperimental design includes barium carbonate as a precursor since it is a comronly used starting material for the ccupound...Kerans, Materials Laboratory, for his assistance in designing this project. I would also like to thank Tim Peterson for his patient instructing. I...the design of the devices used for taking measurements was detailed. Chapter IV showed the results of each type of measurement on each individual

From rabbit antibody repertoires to rabbit monoclonal antibodies.

PubMed

Weber, Justus; Peng, Haiyong; Rader, Christoph

2017-03-24

In this review, we explain why and how rabbit monoclonal antibodies have become outstanding reagents for laboratory research and increasingly for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Starting with the unique ontogeny of rabbit B cells that affords highly distinctive antibody repertoires rich in in vivo pruned binders of high diversity, affinity and specificity, we describe the generation of rabbit monoclonal antibodies by hybridoma technology, phage display and alternative methods, along with an account of successful humanization strategies.

A brief History of Neutron Scattering at the Oak Ridge High Flux Isotope Reactor

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

Nagler, Stephen E; Mook Jr, Herbert A

2008-01-01

Neutron scattering at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory dates back to 1945 when Ernest Wollan installed a modified x-ray diffractometer on a beam port of the original graphite reactor. Subsequently, Wollan and Clifford Shull pioneered neutron diffraction and laid the foundation for an active neutron scattering effort that continued through the 1950s, using the Oak Ridge Research reactor after 1958, and, starting in 1966, the High Flux Isotope Reactor, or HFIR.

Investigation of a Passive, Temporal, Neutron Monitoring System that Functions within the Confines of Start I

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-03-01

was appreciated and their expertise was invaluable. I would also like to thank laboratory technician, Mr. Eric Taylor, whose assistance, skill...Sagdeev, “Detecting Nuclear Warheads,” in Reversing the Arms Race: How to Achieve and Verify Deep Reductions in the Nuclear Arsenals. Ed. F. von ... Hippel and R.Z. Sagdeev. New York: Gordon and Breach Science Publishers, 1990 7) Brigman, Charles J. Introduction To The Physics of Nuclear Weapon

Not All Are Lost: Interrupted Laboratory Monitoring, Early Death, and Loss to Follow-Up (LTFU) in a Large South African Treatment Program

PubMed Central

Ahonkhai, Aima A.; Noubary, Farzad; Munro, Alison; Stark, Ruth; Wilke, Marisa; Freedberg, Kenneth A.; Wood, Robin; Losina, Elena

2012-01-01

Background Many HIV treatment programs in resource-limited settings are plagued by high rates of loss to follow-up (LTFU). Most studies have not distinguished between those who briefly interrupt, but return to care, and those more chronically lost to follow-up. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 11,397 adults initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 71 Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference/Catholic Relief Services HIV treatment clinics between January 2004 and December 2008. We distinguished among patients with early death, within the first 7 months on ART; patients with interruptions in laboratory monitoring (ILM), defined as missing visits in the first 7 months on ART, but returning to care by 12 months; and those LTFU, defined as missing all follow-up visits in the first 12 months on ART. We used multilevel logistic regression models to determine patient and clinic-level characteristics associated with these outcomes. Results In the first year on ART, 60% of patients remained in care, 30% missed laboratory visits, and 10% suffered early death. Of the 3,194 patients who missed laboratory visits, 40% had ILM, resuming care by 12 months. After 12 months on ART, patients with ILM had a 30% increase in detectable viremia compared to those who remained in care. Risk of LTFU decreased with increasing enrollment year, and was lowest for patients who enrolled in 2008 compared to 2004 [OR 0.49, 95%CI 0.39–0.62]. Conclusions In a large community-based cohort in South Africa, nearly 30% of patients miss follow-up visits for CD4 monitoring in the first year after starting ART. Of those, 40% have ILM but return to clinic with worse virologic outcomes than those who remain in care. The risk of chronic LTFU decreased with enrollment year. As ART availability increases, interruptions in care may become more common, and should be accounted for in addressing program LTFU. PMID:22427925

Contribution of new technologies to characterization and prediction of adverse effects.

PubMed

Rouquié, David; Heneweer, Marjoke; Botham, Jane; Ketelslegers, Hans; Markell, Lauren; Pfister, Thomas; Steiling, Winfried; Strauss, Volker; Hennes, Christa

2015-02-01

Identification of the potential hazards of chemicals has traditionally relied on studies in laboratory animals where changes in clinical pathology and histopathology compared to untreated controls defined an adverse effect. In the past decades, increased consistency in the definition of adversity with chemically-induced effects in laboratory animals, as well as in the assessment of human relevance has been reached. More recently, a paradigm shift in toxicity testing has been proposed, mainly driven by concerns over animal welfare but also thanks to the development of new methods. Currently, in vitro approaches, toxicogenomic technologies and computational tools, are available to provide mechanistic insight in toxicological Mode of Action (MOA) of the adverse effects observed in laboratory animals. The vision described as Tox21c (Toxicity Testing in the 21st century) aims at predicting in vivo toxicity using a bottom-up-approach, starting with understanding of MOA based on in vitro data to ultimately predict adverse effects in humans. At present, a practical application of the Tox21c vision is still far away. While moving towards toxicity prediction based on in vitro data, a stepwise reduction of in vivo testing is foreseen by combining in vitro with in vivo tests. Furthermore, newly developed methods will also be increasingly applied, in conjunction with established methods in order to gain trust in these new methods. This confidence is based on a critical scientific prerequisite: the establishment of a causal link between data obtained with new technologies and adverse effects manifested in repeated-dose in vivo toxicity studies. It is proposed to apply the principles described in the WHO/IPCS framework of MOA to obtain this link. Finally, an international database of known MOAs obtained in laboratory animals using data-rich chemicals will facilitate regulatory acceptance and could further help in the validation of the toxicity pathway and adverse outcome pathway concepts.