Vertically Free-Standing Ordered Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 Nanocup Arrays by Template-Assisted Ion Beam Etching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaoyan; Tang, Dan; Huang, Kangrong; Hu, Die; Zhang, Fengyuan; Gao, Xingsen; Lu, Xubing; Zhou, Guofu; Zhang, Zhang; Liu, Junming

2016-04-01

In this report, vertically free-standing lead zirconate titanate Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT) nanocup arrays with good ordering and high density (1.3 × 1010 cm-2) were demonstrated. By a template-assisted ion beam etching (IBE) strategy, the PZT formed in the pore-through anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane on the Pt/Si substrate was with a cup-like nanostructure. The mean diameter and height of the PZT nanocups (NCs) was about 80 and 100 nm, respectively, and the wall thickness of NCs was about 20 nm with a hole depth of about 80 nm. Uppermost, the nanocup structure with low aspect ratio realized vertically free-standing arrays when losing the mechanical support from templates, avoiding the collapse or bundling when compared to the typical nanotube arrays. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectrum revealed that the as-prepared PZT NCs were in a perovskite phase. By the vertical piezoresponse force microscopy (VPFM) measurements, the vertically free-standing ordered ferroelectric PZT NCs showed well-defined ring-like piezoresponse phase and hysteresis loops, which indicated that the high-density PZT nanocup arrays could have potential applications in ultra-high non-volatile ferroelectric memories (NV-FRAM) or other nanoelectronic devices.

Accumulation rate and mixing of shelf sediments in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewis, R.C.; Coale, K.H.; Edwards, B.D.; Marot, M.; Douglas, J.N.; Burton, E.J.

2002-01-01

The distribution of excess 210Pb in 31 sediment cores was used to determine modern (last 100 yr) mass accumulation rates and the depth of sediment mixing on the continental shelf between Pacifica and Monterey, California, USA. Apparent mass accumulation rates average 0.27 g cm-2 yr-1 and range from 0.42 g cm-2 yr-1 to 0.12 g cm-2 yr-1. Accumulation rates were highest at mid-shelf water depths (60-100 m) adjacent to major rivers and near the head of the Ascension submarine canyon. Cores from water depths of less than 65 m had low, uniform 210Pb activity profiles and sandy textures. The uppermost 5-13 cm of 15 cores had uniform 210Pb activity profiles above a region of steadily decreasing 210Pb activity. This phenomenon was attributed to sediment mixing. The thickness of this upper layer of uniform 210Pb activity decreased southward from 13 cm, west of Pacifica, to less than 5 cm, near Monterey Canyon. This southward decrease may be attributed to shallower bioturbation in the southern study area. Integrated excess 210Pb activities were generally higher where sedimentation rates were high. They were also higher with increasing distance from major rivers. Thus, sedimentation rate alone does not explain the distribution of integrated excess 210Pb in this study area. Excess 210Pb in the seafloor is controlled by other factors such as sediment texture, the atmospheric deposition rate of 210Pb, and the residence time of sediment particles in the water column. ?? 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Geophysical and petrological modeling of the lower crust and uppermost mantle in the Variscan and Proterozoic surroundings of the Trans-European Suture Zone in Central Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puziewicz, Jacek; Polkowski, Marcin; Grad, Marek

2017-04-01

High-quality seismic data on the lower crust and uppermost lithospheric mantle in the Central European part of the Trans European Suture Zone, together with thermal and gravimetric data, enables the quantitative modeling of the rocks occurring in those parts of the lithosphere, including their mineral compositions and the chemical composition of individual minerals. The P3 seismic profile is located at the SW margin of the East European Craton. The lower crust is dominated by gabbronoritic intrusions (plagioclase An45Ab55, clinopyroxene Di80Hed20, orthopyroxene En74Fs26), and the uppermost mantle is harzburgitic (olivine and orthopyroxene Mg# 0.91). The lower crust and upper mantle of the P1 seismic profile belong to the Trans European Suture Zone, albeit the upper crust is of Variscan affinity. The P1 lower crust has gabbronoritic composition which is layered from plagioclase-rich compositions on the top to the orthopyroxene-rich ones at the bottom (plagioclase An45Ab55, clinopyroxene Di80Hed20, orthopyroxene En85Fs15), and is lithologically different Proterozoic and Variscan surroundings. The 100 × 200 km eclogite slice (garnet Alm48Gr25Py27, clinopyroxene Di51Hed10Jd39), with a thickness of 5-10 km, occurs in the uppermost mantle sampled by the P1 profile. The Niedźwiedź Massif is located at the NE margin of the Bohemian Massif, which shows an exposed Variscan basement. The lower crust beneath the Niedźwiedź Massif consists of gabbroic rock of variable proportions of plagioclase (An45Ab55) and clinopyroxene (Di80Hed20), whereas the uppermost mantle is supposedly spinel harzburgite (olivine, ortho- and clinopyroxene Mg# 0.90). Our models show that the lowermost crust and uppermost mantle of the East European Craton do not continue to the SW into the Trans European Suture Zone in its Central European section in Poland.

Examining the Uppermost Surface of the Moon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noble, Sarah K.

2010-01-01

Understanding the properties of the uppermost lunar surface is critical as it is the optical surface that is probed by remote-sensing data, like that which is and will be generated by instruments on orbiting missions (e.g. M3, LRO). The uppermost material is also the surface with which future lunar astronauts and their equipment will be in direct contact, and thus understanding its properties will be important for dust mitigation and toxicology issues. Furthermore, exploring the properties of this uppermost surface may provide insight into conditions at this crucial interface, such as grain charging and levitation

Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of benthic foraminifera in the Northeast Water Polynya, Greenland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahrens, Michael J.; Graf, Gerhard; Altenbach, Alexander V.

1997-01-01

Abundance, biofacies and ATP content of benthic foraminifera (>63 μm) were studied in the Northeast Water (NEW) Polynya (77-81°N, 5-17°W) over the ice-free summer, 1993, to investigate how a polynya system might influence the underlying benthic community. In the living assemblage, distinguished by Rose Bengal staining, over 60 taxa could be identified. The biofacies identified was similar to that of other Arctic shelf habitats. Foraminifera were counted in 3 size fractions (63-125 μm, 125-250 μm and >250 μm), with 65% of the foraminifera occurring in the smallest size fraction (63-125 μm). Total abundances (>63 μm) in the uppermost 1 cm averaged approximately 200 ind/10 cm 3 and declined down-core, as did the number of species. Abundances and species composition correlated positively with sediment chlorophyll and ATP content, with maxima occurring in the shallower northern regions of the polynya, suggesting a general dependence on food. Foraminera biomass was estimated to be 0.1-0.3 g C org/m 2. Abundances, biomass and ATP content were comparable to ice-free, deep-sea regions in the Norwegian Sea. Temporal changes observed over a 2 month period at one location were difficult to distinguish from spatial and analytical variability. Contrary to expectations, growth was unpronounced at the community and at a species level, implying either a delayed response of the benthic foraminiferal community to food inputs from the overlying water column or the presence of biological limitations other than food, such as predation.

Vertically Free-Standing Ordered Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 Nanocup Arrays by Template-Assisted Ion Beam Etching.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoyan; Tang, Dan; Huang, Kangrong; Hu, Die; Zhang, Fengyuan; Gao, Xingsen; Lu, Xubing; Zhou, Guofu; Zhang, Zhang; Liu, Junming

2016-12-01

In this report, vertically free-standing lead zirconate titanate Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT) nanocup arrays with good ordering and high density (1.3 × 10(10) cm(-2)) were demonstrated. By a template-assisted ion beam etching (IBE) strategy, the PZT formed in the pore-through anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane on the Pt/Si substrate was with a cup-like nanostructure. The mean diameter and height of the PZT nanocups (NCs) was about 80 and 100 nm, respectively, and the wall thickness of NCs was about 20 nm with a hole depth of about 80 nm. Uppermost, the nanocup structure with low aspect ratio realized vertically free-standing arrays when losing the mechanical support from templates, avoiding the collapse or bundling when compared to the typical nanotube arrays. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectrum revealed that the as-prepared PZT NCs were in a perovskite phase. By the vertical piezoresponse force microscopy (VPFM) measurements, the vertically free-standing ordered ferroelectric PZT NCs showed well-defined ring-like piezoresponse phase and hysteresis loops, which indicated that the high-density PZT nanocup arrays could have potential applications in ultra-high non-volatile ferroelectric memories (NV-FRAM) or other nanoelectronic devices.

Uppermost impact fallback layer in the Bosumtwi crater (Ghana): Mineralogy, geochemistry, and comparison with Ivory Coast tektites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koeberl, Christian; Brandstätter, Franz; Glass, Billy P.; Hecht, Lutz; Mader, Dieter; Reimold, Wolf Uwe

In 2004, an International Continental Scientific Drilling Program (ICDP) drilling project at the Bosumtwi impact crater, Ghana (10.5 km in diameter, 1.07 Myr old), was performed to study the sediments that fill the lake as well as the underlying impactites. In one (LB-05) of 16 cores drilled into the lake sediments, the zone between the impact breccias and the post-impact sediments was penetrated, preserving the final, fine-grained impact fallback layer. This ~30 cm thick layer contains in the top 10 cm “accretionary” lapilli, microtektite-like glass spherules, and shocked quartz grains. Glass particles -- mostly of splash form less than 1 mm size -- make up the bulk of the grains (~70-78% by number) in the coarser size fraction (>125 μm) of the top of the fallback layer. About one-third of all quartz grains in the uppermost part of the layer are shocked, with planar deformation features (PDFs); almost half of these grains are highly shocked, with 3 or more sets of PDFs. K-feldspar grains also occur and some show shock deformation. The abundance of shocked quartz grains and the average shock level as indicated by the number of sets of PDFs, for both quartz and K-feldspar, decrease with depth into the layer. The well-preserved glass spherules and fragments are chemically rather homogeneous within each particle, and also show relatively small variations between the various particles. On average, the composition of the fallback spherules from core LB-5B is very similar to the composition of Ivory Coast tektites and microtektites, with the exception of CaO contents, which are about 1.5 to 2 times higher in the fallback spherules. This is a rare case in which the uppermost fallback layer and the transition to the post-impact sediments has been preserved in an impact structure; its presence indicates that the impactite sequence at Bosumtwi is complete and that Bosumtwi is a very well-preserved impact crater.

Crustal evolution and the granulite to eclogite transition in xenoliths from kimberlites in the West African Craton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toft, Paul B.; Hills, Doris V.; Haggerty, Stephen E.

1989-04-01

A petrographic, mineral and bulk chemical study of a xenolith suite of granulites and eclogites from Sample Creek, Liberia and Koidu, Sierra Leone, has been undertaken with a view to determining the nature of the crust-upper mantle interface. A broad range of xenolith compositions is present (from high-MgO eclogites to garnet-anorthosites) and a systematic AFM trend is established, consistent with mafic and ultramafic melt fractionation at moderate pressures (10-20 kbar). A trend is established for the entire xenolith suite among bulk chemistry, seismic P-wave velocity and a crust/mantle (C/M) bulk chemical ratio defined as Na 2O + K 2O + SiO 2/FeO + MgO mole %. Three populations are present: a granulitic crustal group ( SG < 3.0; VP = 6.6-7.2 km/ s; C/ M > 3.0); a granulite and eclogite transitional group ( SG 3.0-3.3; VP = 7.2-8.0 km/ s; C/ M 1.5-3.0); andanexclusivelyuppermantleeclogiticgroup ( ifSG > 3.3; VP = 8.2-8.7 km/ s; C/ M ~ 1.5). From these data and coupled with garnet-clinopyroxene mineral thermometry and accessory phases (e.g., diamond, graphite, coesite, kyanite) or the presence of plagioclase, a xenolith geotherm is established based on stratigraphic sequencing and phase transition boundaries. Diamond and coesite-bearing eclogites conform to the 40 mW/m 2 standard cratonic low heat flow geotherm, whereas the plagioclase granulites at lower pressures correspond to an average rift geotherm of 90 mW/m 2. The latter is ascribed to igneous underplating onto the lower crust or to thermal perturbations from an earlier tectonic event. Graphite and kyanite eclogites and the transitional group (in SG, VP and C/M ratio) of eclogites and granulites fall between the 40 and 90 mW/m 2 reference geotherms. The xenoliths are meta-igneous, the lower crust and uppermost mantle are mafic in composition and the petrologic Moho is an intercalated, interstratified horizon of eclogite and garnet granulite. Growth of the early crust was largely a consequence of asthenospheric depletion in which underplating rather than lateral accretion was dominant.

Dependence of Photosynthetic Capacity, Photosynthetic Pigment Allocation, and Carbon Storage on Nitrogen Levels in Foliage of Aspen Stands

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Middleton, Elizabeth M.; Sullivan, Joseph H.; Papagno, Andrea J.

2000-01-01

The role of foliar nitrogen (N) in the seasonal dynamics and vertical canopy distribution of photosynthetic pigments, photosynthetic capacity, and carbon (C) storage was investigated in boreal broadleaved species. The study was conducted at two different aged stands (60 y and 15 y) in 1994 and 1996 in Saskatchewan, Canada as part of the Boreal Ecosystem-Atmosphere Study (BOREAS). Foliage in upper and lower strata was examined for aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) and its associated hazelnut shrub (Corylus americana Walt.). We determined that C accumulation, expressed as dry mass per unit leaf area (mg C cm (exp -2)), was linearly dependent on N content (approximately 0.3- 3.5 mg N cm (exp -2))(r (exp 2) = 0.93, n=383, P less than 0.001) when eleven foliage groups were defined according to species, site, and developmental stage. C assembly was greatest in the upper aspen strata of both sites (seasonal average, 40.1 plus or minus 0.6 mg C cm (exp -2)), intermediate in the lower aspen strata (32.7 plus or minus 0.6), and considerably lower, and similar, in the hazelnut shrub layers (23.7 plus or minus 0.6) and in expanding aspen leaves (23.8 plus or minus 0.5); the lowest C assembly per unit N occurred in the two youngest, emerging leaf groups (17.1 plus or minus 0.6). Other relationships among physiological and biochemical variables were typically non-linear and were confounded by inclusion of the three groups of young (i.e., emerging or expanding) leaves, unless these were separately identified. Net C uptake, measured as photosynthetic capacity (A (sub max), micromole CO2 m (exp -2) s (exp -1)), was greater in aspen throughout the season, and optimal in mid-summer at a C:N ratio of approximately 18 (approximately 2.3 %N). When young leaves were excluded and logarithms of both variables were used, A (sub max) was approximately linearly dependent on N (mg N cm (exp-2) (r (exp 2) = 0.85, n= 193, P less than 0.001), attributed to incorporation of N into photosynthetic complexes and enzymes. In mature leaves, differences in pigment content vs. N among canopy strata were accentuated when N was expressed per unit leaf area (Mg cm (exp -2)) . However, the simplest log-linear relationship between a pigment variable and N was obtained for a ratio describing the relative allocation of photosynthetic pigment to Chl a (Chl a/[Chl b + carotenoids], microgram cm (exp -2)/ microgram cm-2) vs. %N (r (exp 2) = 0.90, n=343, P less than 0.001). Attainment of comparable A (sub max) Chl a content and relative Chl a allocation per unit N (mg cm (exp -2)) was achieved at different foliar N levels per canopy group: the lowest N requirement was for hazelnut leaves in the lowest, shaded stratum at the older, closed canopy site; the highest N requirement was in aspen leaves of the upper-most stratum at the younger, more open canopy site. These results highlight the differences in physiological responses between young and fully expanded leaves and show that sustaining those foliar constituents and processes important to C balance may require higher foliar N levels in leaves of establishing vs. mature aspen stands. There may be implications for remote-sensing assessments made for carbon balance in springtime, or over a landscape mosaic comprised of different aged stands.

The Cretaceous/Paleogene Transition on the East Tasman Plateau, Southwestern Pacific

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schellenberg, Stephen A.; Brinkhuis, Henk; Stickley, Catherine E.; Fuller, Michael; Kyte, Frank T.; Williams, Graham L.

2004-01-01

Ocean Drilling Program Leg 189 recovered a potentially complete shallow marine record of the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary (KPB) at Site 1172 on the East Tasman Plateau. Here we present high-resolution (cm-scale) data from micropaleontology, geochemistry, sedimentology, and paleomagnetism that provide no evidence for a complete KPB, but instead suggest a boundary-spanning hiatus of at least 0.8 Ma. We interpret this hiatus to represent the sequence boundary between the uppermost Maastrichtian Tal.1 and lowermost Danian Ta1.2/ Da- 1 3rd-order sequence stratigraphic cycles. Microfloral assemblages indicate generally shallow paleodepths, restricted circulation, and eutrophic conditions through the section. Paleodepths progressively shallow through the late Maastrichtian, while more oceanic and warmer conditions dominate the early Danian. The Site 1172 KPB section is broadly comparable to other southern highlatitude sections in Antarctica and New Zealand, but appears to record a shallower and more restricted environment that permitted a eustatically-driven hiatus across the KPB mass extinction event.

Element remobilization, "internal P-loading," and sediment-P reactivity researched by DGT (diffusive gradients in thin films) technique.

PubMed

Wu, Zhihao; Wang, Shengrui; He, Mengchang; Zhang, Li; Jiao, Lixin

2015-10-01

Labile P, Fe, and sulfide with the high spatial resolution in sediment porewater of five sites (A-E) of Dianchi Lake (China) were measured at same locations using AgI/Chelex-100, Chelex-100, and ferrihydrite DGT (diffusive gradients in thin films) probes. DGT derived P/Fe/S concentrations in sediment porewater on millimeter or sub-millimeter scale in order to reveal the element remobilization process and the mechanism of "internal P-loading" of sediments in Dianchi Lake. Decomposition of alga biomass in the uppermost sediment layer and the reductive dissolution of Fe-bound P in the anoxic sediment were the two main processes causing P release. A dynamic numerical model-DIFS (DGT-induced flux in sediments) was used to assess sediment-P reactivity (capacity of solid pool and rate of transfer) and P release risk by kinetic parameter-T C (1089∼20,450 s), distribution coefficient-K d (167.09∼502.0 cm(3) g(-1)), resupply parameter-R (from 0.242 to 0.518), and changes of dissolved/sorbed concentration, R and M at the microzone of DGT/porewater/sediment.

Changes in Soil Carbon and Nitrogen following Land Abandonment of Farmland on the Loess Plateau, China

PubMed Central

Deng, Lei; Shangguan, Zhou-Ping; Sweeney, Sandra

2013-01-01

The revegetation of abandoned farmland significantly influences soil organic C (SOC) and total N (TN). However, the dynamics of both soil OC and N storage following the abandonment of farmland are not well understood. To learn more about soil C and N storages dynamics 30 years after the conversion of farmland to grassland, we measured SOC and TN content in paired grassland and farmland sites in the Zhifanggou watershed on the Loess Plateau, China. The grassland sites were established on farmland abandoned for 1, 7, 13, 20, and 30 years. Top soil OC and TN were higher in older grassland, especially in the 0–5 cm soil depths; deeper soil OC and TN was lower in younger grasslands (<20 yr), and higher in older grasslands (30 yr). Soil OC and N storage (0–100 cm) was significantly lower in the younger grasslands (<20 yr), had increased in the older grasslands (30 yr), and at 30 years SOC had increased to pre-abandonment levels. For a thirty year period following abandonment the soil C/N value remained at 10. Our results indicate that soil C and TN were significantly and positively correlated, indicating that studies on the storage of soil OC and TN needs to focus on deeper soil and not be restricted to the uppermost (0–30 cm) soil levels. PMID:23940793

Intracellular Distribution of Enzymes of the Cytidine Diphosphate Choline Pathway in Castor Bean Endosperm

PubMed Central

Lord, J. M.; Kagawa, T.; Beevers, Harry

1972-01-01

The occurrence and subcellular distribution of enzymes of the cytidine diphosphate choline pathway of lecithin synthesis have been examined. Choline kinase (EC 2.7.1.32) was completely soluble, while phosphorylcholine-cytidyl transferase (EC 2.7.7.15) and phosphorylcholine-glyceride transferase (EC 2.7.8.2) were associated with particulate fractions. Although components sedimenting at 10,000 to 100,000 × g contained both enzymes, phosphorylcholine-cytidyl transferase and particularly phosphorylcholine-glyceride transferase were present in the 10,000 × g pellet, which contained the major organelles, mitochondria, and glyoxysomes. When the crude homogenate was centrifuged on a sucrose density gradient, four major bands of particulate protein were recovered. A band at density 1.24 g/cm3 contained the glyoxysomes and was devoid of phosphorylcholine-cytidyl transferase and phosphorylcholine-glyceride transferase activity. Enzyme activity was barely detectable in the mitochondria, at density 1.18 g/cm2. Phosphorylcholine-glyceride transferase was found almost exclusively in a sharp band at density 1.12 g/cm3, and phosphorylcholinecytidyl transferase was found in the uppermost band at density 1.08 g/cm3. Thus, for the synthesis of lecithin in their membranes, the glyoxysomes and mitochondria depend on enzymes elsewhere in the cell; the final two steps in lecithin formation occur, apparently exclusively, in separate particulate cell components. Images PMID:4506764

Sediment thicknesses and holocene glacial marine sedimentation rates in three east Greenland fjords (ca. 68°N)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Andrews, J.T.; Milliman, John D.; Jennings, A.E.; Rynes, N.; Dwyer, J.

1994-01-01

We compared measured and estimated sediment budgets in heavily glaciated fjords in East Greenland. Mass balance calculations and regional glacio-climatic conditions suggest that the sediment flux to the seafloor in Kangerdlugssuaq and Nansen fjords should be dominated by iceberg rafting and not by the rain-out of suspended particulates in meltwater, as the glacier calving flux is estimated at 15 and $2 km^{3}/yr$, compared to meltwater volumes of 4.4 and $1.7 km^{3}/yr$, respectively. Gravity cores in the three fjords indicate that the uppermost 1-2.5 m of sediment consists of diamictons or fine-grained laminated muds. AMS radiocarbon dates on calcareous foramininfera or shells (16 total) indicate sedimentation rates of 110 to 340 cm/ka within the fjords over the last 1 ka, and 10-20 cm/ka during the Holecene on the inner and middle shelf. Annual sediment discharge is around $0.67 \\times 10^{6}$ tonnes/yr within the Kangerdlugssuaq Fjord and Trough system, which translates into an average basin-wide rate of denudation of 0.01 mm/yr (0.01 m/ka). Air gun and deep-towed (Huntec) seismic profiling was carried out in Kangerdlugssuaq and Nansen fjords, East Greenland, and showed that sediment fills averaged 500 and 350 m respectively; they consist primarily of acoustically stratified sediments. If the sediment fills are entirely Holocene in age then the required average sediment accumulation rates of 35-50 m/ka are an order of magnitude larger than the $^{14}C $controlled rates of the last 1-2 ka. This raises the possibility that fjord sediments may be by-passed and not always recycled during glacial advances; this will affect sedimentation rates on adjacent shelves and deep-sea areas during successive glaciations

Athletic Cardiac Remodeling in US Professional Basketball Players.

PubMed

Engel, David J; Schwartz, Allan; Homma, Shunichi

2016-04-01

The incidence of sudden cardiac death is higher in US basketball players compared with other athlete groups. However, the recognition of the risk for sudden cardiac death among basketball players is challenging because little is known regarding athletic cardiac remodeling in these athletes or athletes of similarly increased size. To perform a comprehensive cardiac structural analysis of National Basketball Association (NBA) professional athletes. Echocardiographic observational study of NBA players on the active rosters for the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 seasons was performed from December 16, 2013, to December 12, 2014. The policy of the NBA mandates annual preseason stress echocardiograms for each player. The NBA has sanctioned Columbia University Medical Center to conduct annual health and safety reviews of these echocardiograms. Data were analyzed from January to May 2015. Cardiac variables assessed included left ventricular (LV) size, mass, wall thickness, and hypertrophy patterns and function; left atrial volume; and aortic root diameter. All dimensions were biometrically scaled. Of the 526 athletes included in the study, 406 (77.2%) were African American and 107 (20.3%) were white, with a mean (SD) age of 25.7 (4.3) years. Mean (SD) athlete height was 200.2 (8.8) cm; mean body surface area, 2.38 (0.19) m2. Left ventricular size and mass in NBA athletes were proportional to body size, extending to the uppermost biometrics of the cohort. Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in 144 athletes (27.4%). African American athletes had increased LV wall thickness (unadjusted mean, 11.2 mm; 95% CI, 11.1-11.3 mm) and LV mass (unadjusted mean, 106.3 g/m2; 95% CI, 104.6-108.0 g/m2) compared with LV wall thickness (unadjusted mean, 10.5 mm; 95% CI, 10.3-10.7 mm; P < .001) and LV mass (unadjusted mean, 102.2 g/m2; 95% CI, 99.0-105.4 g/m2; P = .029) in white athletes. The maximal aortic root diameter in the cohort was 42 mm. Aortic root diameters reached a plateau at the uppermost biometric variables. Five athletes (1.0%) had an LV ejection fraction of less than 50%, and all ventricles augmented normally with exercise. This study provides normative cardiac data for a group of athletes with greater anthropometry than any previously studied athlete group and for a group known to have elevated rates of sudden cardiac death. These data can be incorporated into clinical assessments for the primary prevention of cardiac emergencies in basketball players and the athletic community at large.

"Solar-Wind-Rich" Howardite: True Regolith vs. CM-Implanted Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cartwright, Julia A.; Mittlefehldt, D. W.; Herrin, J. S.; Hermann, S.; Ott, U.

2011-01-01

Howardite, eucrite and diogenite meteorites (collectively HED) likely originate from asteroid 4-Vesta [1], one of two asteroids targeted by NASA s Dawn mission. Many howardites (polymict breccias of E and D material) contain "regolithic" features, including impact-melt clasts, fragmental breccia clasts, and carbonaceous chondrite fragments. True regolithic nature can be determined through noble gas analysis, as Solar Wind (SW) is implanted into the upper-most surfaces of solar system bodies. Whilst previous work [2] suggested that high siderophile element contents (e.g. Ni of 300-1200 g/g) were regolith indicators, we found no obvious correlation between SW and these indicators in our initial howardite noble gas analyses [3]. We observed CM-like fragments in a number of our howardites, whose textures suggest late addition to the breccia assemblage [4]. As typical CMs contain mixtures of SW (in matrix) and planetary (in clasts) components [5], we investigate the dominance of such components in SW-rich howardites. This will help deter-mine the extent of implanted SW in HED grains vs. SW and planetary gases from CM fragments, and allow better understanding of regolith processes

Abyssal ostracods from the South and Equatorial Atlantic Ocean: Biological and paleoceanographic implications

USGS Publications Warehouse

Yasuhara, Moriaki; Cronin, T. M.; Martinez, Arbizu P.

2008-01-01

We report the distribution of ostracods from ???5000 m depth from the Southeast and Equatorial Atlantic Ocean recovered from the uppermost 10 cm of minimally disturbed sediments taken by multiple-corer during the R/V Meteor DIVA2 expedition M63.2. Five cores yielded the following major deep-sea genera: Krithe, Henryhowella, Poseidonamicus, Legitimocythere, Pseudobosquetina, and Pennyella. All genera are widely distributed in abyssal depths in the world's oceans and common in Cenozoic deep-sea sediments. The total number of ostracod specimens is higher and ostracod shell preservation is better near the sediment-water interface, especially at the 0-1 cm core depths. Core slices from ???5 to 10 cm were barren or yielded a few poorly preserved specimens. The DIVA2 cores show that deep-sea ostracod species inhabit corrosive bottom water near the carbonate compensation depth (CCD) even though their calcareous valves are rarely preserved as fossils in sediment cores due to postmortem dissolution. Their occurrence at great water depths may partially explain the well-known global distributions of major deep-sea taxa in the world's oceans, although further expeditions using minimal-disturbance sampling devices are needed to fill geographic gaps. ?? 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Holocene Record Of The Cuitzeo Lake, Michoacan, Central Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Israde-Alcantar, I.; Bischoff, J.; Cram, S.; Ruiz-Fernandez, C.; Barron, J.; Lozano-Garcia, S.; Ortega-Guerrero, B.; Garduño-Monroy, V. H.

2007-05-01

A 205 cm-long core spanning the last ca.10,000 years was taken in the western basin of Lake Cuitzeo, located in the tectonic depressions of central Mexico. Age control for the core is provided by four AMS dates on organic sediment. The uppermost 30 cm of the core appears to be highly bioturbated according to Pb210 chronologies. A time plot of mass-accumulation rates of sediment (g/cm2/kyr) shows high rates from 10,000 to 6000 yrs BP, strikingly reduced mid-Holocene rates, and increasing rates post 1000 yrs (which could be due to introduction of European ranching and agriculture). Organic and inorganic carbon (TOC. TIC), diatoms, iron and titanium concentrations were analyzed and used to infer variations in the hydrological cycle and climatic conditions. The lower part of the core (ca.8000 C14 yr B.P.) is characterized by high percents of CaCO3 (more than 35 percent) which rapidly declines to values less than 20 percent after ca. 6000 C14 yr B.P., likely reflecting reduced summer precipitation due to decline summer insolation. Coincident with this decline in percents CaCO3 there is a decline greater that two-fold sediment accumulation rates and an increase in percents TOC. Two peaks TOC are recorded at 909 and 6744 C14 yr B.P. suggesting increased precipitation. The TOC peak at 909 C14 yr B.P. may be associated with increased precipitation during the Medieval Warm Period. The middle Holocene TOC peak at 6744 C14 yr B.P. coincides with a period of increased precipitation in the Cariaco Basin of Venezuela. These changes in precipitation are similar to those recorded in lake records from Guatemala and the marine record of the Cariaco Basin and can be explained by shifts in the mean latitude of the Atlantic Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The upper 100 cm of the core was studied at 1 cm intervals for metals (Al, Fe, Ti, Pb, etc.) using ICPMS geochemistry. These metals show strong cycles throughout the studied interval which may reflect wet-dry cycles. A two fold reduction in percent Ti between ca. 56 and 31 cm in the core may reflect increased aridity between ca. 2,400 and 800 C14 yr B.P. A greater than three-fold increase in Ti mass accumulation rates in the uppermost part of the core likely is due to increase erosion caused by agriculture during the past ca. 400 years. Diatom, magnetic susceptibility and pollen analyses that are in progress on the Lake Cutizeo core will refine the paleoenvironmental history of this central Mexican lake and will be compared with other continental and marine Holocene records.

Site 766: Sedimentology

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

1990-01-01

Site 766 is located at the base of the steep western margin of the Exmouth Plateau. The oldest sediment penetrated at Site 766, in Section 123-766A-49R-4 at 66 cm (466.7 mbsf), is uppermost Valanginian sandstone and siltstone, alternating with inclined basaltic intrusions (see "Igneous Rock Lithostratigraphy" section, this chapter). The uppermost sediment/basalt interface occurs in Section 123-766A-48R-6 at 129 cm (460.6 mbsf) At least 300 m (approximately 65%) of the sediments penetrated accumulated during the Lower Cretaceous, compared with less than 150 m thereafter. At Site 765, on the Argo Abyssal Plain, the Lower Cretaceous also is slightly more than 300 m thick. However, approximately 65% of the total sediment column at this site accumulated after the Lower Cretaceous, primarily during the Neogene. The sedimentation history, based on the age and present depth of basement(?) and time-depth relationship for oceanic crust, suggests that Site 766 began at a depth of about 800 m. However, the presence of shallow marine components in the oldest lithologic unit, if not redeposited, suggests that initial depths were shallower. Site 766 appears to have remained above or near the carbonate compensation depth (CCD) throughout its history, whereas Site 765 may have started near the CCD, but remained below it throughout most of its history.

Installation Restoration Program. Preliminary Assessment: 201st RED HORSE, Civil Engineering Flight, Fort Indiantown Gap Air National Guard Station, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, Annville, Pennsylvania

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-02-01

Pliocene I Neogene 5 Miocene o 0 24 Oligocene Paleogene Eocene 58 6 Paleocene 5I56 Cretaceous u 144- 0 Jurassic 0N 208- Z TriassicI 245- (L Permian 286...and its unnamed tributary I are classified as warm water fisheries. G. Groundwater Use of Uppermost Aquifer. I Site Nos. 1-3, Factor Rating 2. The

The Pliocene-Quaternary tectonic evolution of the Cilicia and Adana basins, eastern Mediterranean: Special reference to the development of the Kozan Fault zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aksu, A. E.; Walsh-Kennedy, S.; Hall, J.; Hiscott, R. N.; Yaltırak, C.; Akhun, S. D.; Çifçi, G.

2014-05-01

A grid of high-resolution multi-channel seismic reflection profiles allows the detailed mapping of the Kozan Fault zone in the Cilicia and Adana basins. The zone is delineated by an arcuate zone consisting of several ENE-WSW and NNE-SSW striking, closely-spaced high-angle extensional faults which define an ~ 300 km long and 15-20 km-wide “lazy-S” shaped structure along the southeastern fringes of the Taurus Mountain and along the northwestern margins of the Cilicia and Adana basins. In the Cilicia Basin the zone consists of several high-angle faults which exhibit small dip separations on the M-reflector and have tip points situated mainly in the lower and middle portion of the Pliocene-Quaternary succession. In the Adana Basin a family of northeast-striking and southeast dipping extensional faults occurs along the western and northwestern margin of the basin. The faults cut down with relatively steep dip into the ~ 700 ms thick Tortonian and older Miocene successions. Multi-channel seismic reflection profiles show that three prominent seismic markers divide the uppermost Messinian-Recent successions in the Cilicia and Adana basins into three subunits: the uppermost Messinian-Lower Pliocene subunit 1C between the M- and A-reflectors, the Upper Pliocene subunit 1B between the A- and P-reflectors and the Quaternary subunit 1A between the P-reflector and the seafloor. Prominent delta lobes are identified in the seismic profiles that are correlated with the ancestral Göksu River. Isopach maps constructed using depth-converted seismic reflection profiles show clear temporal and spatial variations of the delta lobes of the Göksu River during the latest Messinian-Recent. The uppermost Messinian-Lower Pliocene delta lobe is situated furthest to the northeast whereas the youngest Quaternary lobe is situated furthest to the southwest, with 20-35 km displacement along a northeast-southwest line, which suggests a conservative estimate of 0.43-0.75 cm/yr sinistral slip for the Kozan Fault zone.

Crustal and uppermost mantle S-wave velocity structure beneath the Japanese islands from seismic ambient noise tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Zhi; Gao, Xing; Shi, Heng; Wang, Weiming

2013-04-01

In this study, the crustal and uppermost mantle shear wave velocities beneath the Japanese islands have been determined by inversion from seismic ambient noise tomography using data recorded at 75 Full Range Seismograph Network of Japan broad-band seismic stations, which are uniformly distributed across the Japanese islands. By cross-correlating 2 yr of vertical component seismic ambient noise recordings, we are able to extract Rayleigh wave empirical Green's functions, which are subsequently used to measure phase velocity dispersion in the period band of 6-50 s. The dispersion data are then inverted to yield 2-D tomographic phase velocity maps and 3-D shear wave velocity models. Our results show that the velocity variations at short periods (˜10 s), or in the uppermost crust, correlate well with the major known surface geological and tectonic features. In particular, the distribution of low-velocity anomalies shows good spatial correlation with active faults, volcanoes and terrains of sediment exposure, whereas the high-velocity anomalies are mainly associated with the mountain ranges. We also observe that large upper crustal earthquakes (5.0 ≤ M ≤ 8.0, depth ≤ 25 km) mainly occurred in low-velocity anomalies or along the boundary between low- and high-velocity anomalies, suggesting that large upper crustal earthquakes do not strike randomly or uniformly; rather they are inclined to nucleate within or adjacent to low-velocity areas.

Wetter and cooler: pronounced temperate climate conditions in western Anatolia during the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Güner, Tuncay H.; Bouchal, Johannes M.; Köse, Nesibe; Denk, Thomas

2017-04-01

During the course of an ongoing palaeobotanical investigation of the lignite mines of the Yataǧan Basin, Muǧla province, Turkey, the fossil leaves of the Eskihisar lignite mine were analysed using the Climate Leaf Analysis Multivariate Program (CLAMP). The investigated fossil leaves derive from the marls and clayey limestones (Sekköy Member) overlying the exploited lignite seam (uppermost Turgut Member). The age of the studied sedimentary rocks is well constrained by vertebrate fossils occuring in the main lignite seam (MN6 → Gomphoterium angustidens Cuvier, 1817; Percrocuta miocenica Pavlov & Thenius, 1965) and at the Yenieskihisar Mammal locality (MN7/8, uppermost Sekköy Member). 719 specimens were measured and assigned to 65 leaf morphotypes. Using this data, CLAMP reconstructed the following climate parameters: mean annual temperature (MAT) 12.58 (+/-1.5)°C, warm month mean temperature (WMMT) 23.72 (+/-2.5)°C, cold month mean temperature (WMMT) 2.29 (+/-2)°C, length of growing season (LGS) 7.52 (+/-0.75) month, mean growing season precipitation (GSP) 130.1 (+/-40) cm, precipitation during the three wettest months (3-WET) 67 (+/-25) cm, precipitation during the three driest months (3-DRY) 20.4 (+/-7.5) cm. The reconstructed parameters are too cool for tropical climates (the 18˚ C winter isotherm being a threshold for tropical climates) and indicate temperate conditions; climates fitting these parameters (Cfb according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification) can be found today in regions known as "Tertiary relict areas" (e.g. Black sea coast of Northeast Turkey, eastern China, Japan). Based on a substantial amount of rainfall during the three driest months, it is further possible to exclude markedly seasonal climates such as a summer-dry and winter-wet Mediterranean climate and a summer-wet and winter-dry monsoon climate as commonly found along the southern foothills of the Himalayas and in southwestern China. Instead, a fully humid Cf climate is proposed that has only a weak seasonality in precipitation (lower precipitation in winter). The findings of our study provide valuable information for inferring palaeoenvironments of middle Miocene rich ungulate faunas in western Turkey (e.g. Paşalar), for which seasonal tropical and subtropical forest communities have been proposed (Andrews, 1990). The fossil floras of the Tınaz and Salihpaşalar lignite mines, representing the Tınaz sub-basin and the main basin of the wider Yataǧan Basin, are investigated at the moment, and a synthesis paper combining and comparing evidence from the macro floral and palynological data is soon to be submitted. Andrews. (1990) Palaeoecology of the Miocene fauna from Paşalar, Turkey. Journal of Human evolution 19:569-582.

Accumulation and distribution of heavy metals in sediments and fish in the Kola Peninsula lakes under airborne contamination

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

Dauvalter, V.A.; Kashulin, N.A.; Lukin, A.A.

1996-12-31

The copper-nickel smelter complexes of Kola Peninsula are powerful sources of atmospheric contamination by heavy metals (Ni, Cu, Co, Cd, etc.) and acidic oxides (SO{sub 2}) deposited in precipitation and caused negative effects on local freshwater ecosystems. The rise of background levels occurs over large areas in the region. The aim of the investigations is to assess effects of the air contamination on lake ecosystems at different distances (from 15 to 120 km) from one of the main heavy metal pollution sources of the Kola Peninsula - smelters of the Pechenganickel Company. Negative effects of air pollution by the smeltersmore » on the freshwater ecosystems were recorded. Lake sediments accumulate very intensively heavy metals. Heavy metal contamination factors calculated as the quotient of concentration from the uppermost (0-1 cm) sediment to the mean preindustrial background value (concentrations from 20-30 cm sediment layers) for the investigated region reach up 120 for Ni and 76 for Cu in the lakes within a distance of 40 km from the smelters. The lakes in this region have very high contamination degree according classification by Hakanson (1980). Concentrations of Ni in organs and tissues of all studied fishes (whitefish, pike, perch, arctic char, brown trout) were considerably higher in the investigated lakes than in remote unpolluted lakes. There is tight positive correlation between Ni concentrations in surficial sediment (0-1 cm) and fish kidney (r = +0.854), as well as between values of contamination degree and Ni content in fish (r = +0.871).« less

Phosphorus burial in sediments of the sulfidic deep Black Sea: Key roles for adsorption by calcium carbonate and apatite authigenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraal, Peter; Dijkstra, Nikki; Behrends, Thilo; Slomp, Caroline P.

2017-05-01

Sedimentary burial of the essential nutrient phosphorus (P) under anoxic and sulfidic conditions is incompletely understood. Here, we use chemical and micro-scale spectroscopic methods to characterize sedimentary P burial along a water column redox transect (six stations, 78-2107 m water depth) in the Black Sea from the shelf with its oxygenated waters to the anoxic and sulfidic deep basin. Organic P is an important P pool under all redox regimes, accounting for up to 60% of P burial. We find a general down-core increase in the relative importance of organic P, especially on the shelf where P bound to iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) (oxyhydr)oxides is abundant in the uppermost sediment but rapidly declines in concentration with sediment depth. Our chemical and spectroscopic data indicate that the carbonate-rich sediments (Unit I, ∼3000 years, ∼0-30 cm depth) of the sulfidic deep Black Sea contain three major P pools: calcium phosphate (apatite), organic P and P that is strongly associated with CaCO3 and possibly clay surfaces. Apatite concentrations increase from 5% to 25% of total P in the uppermost centimeters of the deep basin sediments, highlighting the importance of apatite formation for long-term P burial. Iron(II)-associated P (ludlamite) was detected with X-ray absorption spectroscopy but was shown to be a minor P pool (∼5%), indicating that lateral Fe-P transport from the shelf ("shuttling") likely occurs but does not impact the P burial budget of the deep Black Sea. The CaCO3-P pool was relatively constant throughout the Unit I sediment interval and accounted for up to 55% of total P. Our results highlight that carbonate-bound P can be an important sink for P in CaCO3-rich sediments of anoxic, sulfidic basins and should also be considered as a potential P sink (and P source in case of CaCO3 dissolution) when reconstructing past ocean P dynamics from geological records.

Fallout isotope chronology of the near-surface sediment record of Lake Bolătău.

PubMed

Bihari, Árpád; Karlik, Máté; Mîndrescu, Marcel; Szalai, Zoltán; Grădinaru, Ionela; Kern, Zoltán

2018-01-01

Fallout isotope ( 210 Pb ex, 137 Cs and 241 Am) based dating has been carried out on the near-surface sediment core collected from Lake Bolătău-Feredeu (Bukovina, Romania). The motivation was to improve the chronology of this recent section in connection with significant fluctuations observed in sediment accumulation rates, particle size distribution and primordial radioisotope (i.e. 40 K and 232 Th) composition. Previously only an extrapolation of a broad-range OxCal age-depth model, which was based on 8 AMS radiocarbon dates from the deeper part of a parallel sediment sequence and tentatively validated for the upper part using the double peaks of the 137 Cs activity concentration distribution, was available for the studied section (1-24 cm). Parallel to the previous 137 Cs measurement, 210 Pb and 226 Ra (for a more detailed, 210 Pb ex -based chronology), 241 Am (for an additional time-marker), as well as 40 K and 232 Th concentrations have also been determined by gamma-spectrometry. In case of the 210 Pb ex -based chronology, due to a large deviation from a pure exponential distribution, the Constant Flux (CF) model has been used for the calculation of sediment ages and accumulation rates. Although the broad-range OxCal and the CF model were broadly similar down to 22 cm, the 210 Pb ex -based ages are clearly superior in terms of uncertainty in the uppermost 12 cm, while the broad-range model has smaller uncertainty below 20 cm (>150 years). The CF model gave an average mass accumulation rate of (0.08 ± 0.03) g cm -2 yr -1 for sections 0-11 cm, and (0.03 ± 0.01) g cm -2 yr -1 for sections 12-22 cm, respectively. Significant changes have been observed in the depth distribution of both the particle size distribution and the elemental/isotopic composition of the sediment record, most likely related to the variation observable in the intensity and volume of precipitation in the catchment. The obtained high-resolution records of Lake Bolătău, including multiple radioisotopes, can serve as a regional benchmark for similar studies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dielectric constant estimation of the uppermost Basal Unit layer in the martian Boreales Scopuli region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lauro, Sebastian E.; Mattei, Elisabetta; Soldovieri, Francesco; Pettinelli, Elena; Orosei, Roberto; Vannaroni, Giuliano

2012-05-01

An electromagnetic inversion model has been applied to echoes from the subsurface sounding Shallow Radar (SHARAD) to retrieve the dielectric properties of the uppermost Basal Unit (BU) beneath the North Polar Layered Deposits of Mars. SHARAD data have been carefully selected to satisfy the assumption of the inversion model which requires a stratigraphy consisting of mostly plane parallel layers. The resulting values of the dielectric constant have been interpreted in terms of a variable percentage of dust in an ice-dust mixture through the use of a mixing model for dielectric properties. The resulting dust content exceeds 65%, reaching perhaps 95%, depending on the permittivity values assumed for the dust. Such a concentration is higher than that obtained by Selvans et al. (Selvans, M.M., Plaut, J.J., Aharonson, O. [2010]. J. Geophys. Res, 115, E09003). This discrepancy could be justified considering that our observations refer to the uppermost BU layer, whereas Selvans et al. (Selvans, M.M., Plaut, J.J., Aharonson, O. [2010]. J. Geophys. Res, 115, E09003) probed the BU full thickness. Moreover, if the BU is considered spatially inhomogeneous, with very different dust content and thickness (Tanaka, K.L., Skinner, J.A., Fortezzo, C.M., Herkenhoff, K.E., Rodriguez, J.A.P., Bourke, M.C., Kolb, E.J., Okubo, C.H. [2008]. Icarus, 196, 318-358), the discrepancy could be furtherly reconciled.

Metal mobilization under alkaline conditions in ash-covered tailings.

PubMed

Lu, Jinmei; Alakangas, Lena; Wanhainen, Christina

2014-06-15

The aim of this study was to determine element mobilization and accumulation in mill tailings under alkaline conditions. The tailings were covered with 50 cm of fly ash, and above a sludge layer. The tailings were geochemically and mineralogically investigated. Sulfides, such as pyrrhotite, sphalerite and galena along with gangue minerals such as dolomite, calcite, micas, chlorite, epidote, Mn-pyroxene and rhodonite were identified in the unoxidized tailings. The dissolution of the fly ash layer resulted in a high pH (close to 12) in the underlying tailings. This, together with the presence of organic matter, increased the weathering of the tailings and mobilization of elements in the uppermost 47 cm of the tailings. All primary minerals were depleted, except quartz and feldspar which were covered by blurry secondary carbonates. Sulfide-associated elements such as Cd, Fe, Pb, S and Zn and silicate-associated elements such as Fe, Mg and Mn were released from the depletion zone and accumulated deeper down in the tailings where the pH decreased to circum-neutral. Sequential extraction suggests that Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, S and Zn were retained deeper down in the tailings and were mainly associated with the sulfide phase. Calcium, Cr, K and Ni released from the ash layer were accumulated in the uppermost depletion zone of the tailings. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transdermal delivery and cutaneous targeting of antivirals using a penetration enhancer and lysolipid prodrugs.

PubMed

Diblíková, Denisa; Kopečná, Monika; Školová, Barbora; Krečmerová, Marcela; Roh, Jaroslav; Hrabálek, Alexandr; Vávrová, Kateřina

2014-04-01

In this work, we investigate prodrug and enhancer approaches for transdermal and topical delivery of antiviral drugs belonging to the 2,6-diaminopurine acyclic nucleoside phosphonate (ANP) group. Our question was whether we can differentiate between transdermal and topical delivery, i.e., to control the delivery of a given drug towards either systemic absorption or retention in the skin. The in vitro transdermal delivery and skin concentrations of seven antivirals, including (R)- and (S)-9-[2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]-2,6-diaminopurine (PMPDAP), (S)-9-[3-hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]-2,6-diaminopurine ((S)-HPMPDAP), its 8-aza analog, and their cyclic and hexadecyloxypropyl (HDP) prodrugs, was investigated with and without the penetration enhancer dodecyl-6-(dimethylamino)hexanoate (DDAK) using human skin. The ability of ANPs to cross the human skin barrier was very low (0.5-1.4 nmol/cm(2)/h), and the majority of the compounds were found in the stratum corneum, the uppermost skin layer. The combination of antivirals and the penetration enhancer DDAK proved to be a viable approach for transdermal delivery, especially in case of (R)-PMPDAP, an anti-HIV effective drug (30.2 ± 2.3 nmol/cm(2)/h). On the other hand, lysophospholipid-like HDP prodrugs, e.g., HDP-(S)-HPMPDAP, reached high concentrations in viable epidermis without significant systemic absorption. By using penetration enhancers or lysolipid prodrugs, it is possible to effectively target systemic diseases by the transdermal route or to target cutaneous pathologies by topical delivery.

Depth distribution of cesium-137 in paddy fields across the Fukushima pollution plume in 2013.

PubMed

Lepage, Hugo; Evrard, Olivier; Onda, Yuichi; Lefèvre, Irène; Laceby, J Patrick; Ayrault, Sophie

2015-09-01

Large quantities of radiocesium were deposited across a 3000 km(2) area northwest of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant after the March 2011 accident. Although many studies have investigated the fate of (137)Cs in soil in the months following the accident, the depth distribution of this radioactive contaminant in rice paddy fields requires further examination after the typhoons that occurred in this region. Such investigations will help minimize potential human exposure in rice paddy fields. Radionuclide activity concentrations, organic content and particle size were analysed in 10 soil cores sampled from paddy fields in November 2013, 20 km north of the Fukushima power plant. Our results demonstrate limited depth migration of (137)Cs with the majority concentrated in the uppermost layers of soils (<5 cm). More than 30 months after the accident, between 46.8 and 98.7% of the total (137)Cs inventories was found within the top 5 cm of the soil surface, despite cumulative rainfall totalling 3300 mm. Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between (137)Cs depth distribution and the other parameters. We attributed the maximum depth penetration of (137)Cs to grass cutting (73.6-98.5% of (137)Cs in the upper 5 cm) and farming operations (tillage - 46.8-51.6% of (137)Cs in the upper 5 cm). As this area is exposed to erosive events, ongoing decontamination works may increase soil erodibility. We therefore recommend the rapid removal of the uppermost - contaminated - layer of the soil after removing the vegetation to avoid erosion of contaminated material during the subsequent rainfall events. Further analysis is required to thoroughly understand the impacts of erosion on the redistribution of radiocesium throughout the Fukushima Prefecture. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Depth distribution of radiocesium in Fukushima paddy fields and implications for ongoing decontamination works

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lepage, H.; Evrard, O.; Onda, Y.; Lefèvre, I.; Laceby, J. P.; Ayrault, S.

2014-09-01

Large quantities of radiocesium were deposited across a 3000 km2 area northwest of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant after the March 2011 accident. Although many studies have investigated the fate of radiocesium in soil in the months following the accident, the potential migration of this radioactive contaminant in rice paddy fields requires further examination after the typhoons that occurred in this region. Such investigations will help minimize potential human exposure in rice paddy fields or transfer of radioactive contaminants from soils to rice. Radionuclide activity concentrations and organic content were analysed in 10 soil cores sampled from paddy fields in November 2013, 20 km north of the Fukushima power plant. Our results demonstrate limited depth migration of radiocesium with the majority concentrated in the uppermost layers of soils (< 5 cm). More than 30 months after the accident, 81.5 to 99.7% of the total 137Cs inventories was still found within the < 5 cm of the soil surface, despite cumulative rainfall totalling 3300 mm. Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between radiocesium migration depth and total organic carbon content. We attributed the maximum depth penetration of 137Cs to maintenance (grass cutting - 97% of 137Cs in the upper 5 cm) and farming operations (tilling - 83% of 137Cs in the upper 5 cm). As this area is exposed to erosive events, ongoing decontamination works may increase soil erodibility. We therefore recommend the rapid removal of the uppermost - contaminated - layer of the soil after removing the vegetation to avoid erosion of contaminated material during the subsequent rainfall events. Remediation efforts should be concentrated on soils characterised by radiocesium activities > 10 000 Bq kg-1 to prevent the contamination of rice. Further analysis is required to clarify the redistribution of radiocesium eroded on river channels.

Detrital zircon and apatite (U-Th)/He geochronology of intercalated baked sediments: A new approach to dating young basalt flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, Frances J.; van Soest, Matthijs C.; Hodges, Kip V.

2011-07-01

Simple numerical models suggest that many basaltic lava flows should sufficiently heat the sediments beneath them to reset (U-Th)/He systematics in detrital zircon and apatite. This result suggests a useful way to date such flows when more conventional geochronological approaches are either impractical or yield specious results. We present here a test of this method on sediments interstratified with basalt flows of the Taos Plateau Volcanic Field of New Mexico. Nineteen zircons and apatites from two samples of baked sand collected from the uppermost 2 cm of a fluvial channel beneath a flow of the Upper Member of the Servilleta Basalt yielded an apparent age of 3.487 ± 0.047 Ma (2 SE confidence level), within the range of all published 40Ar/39Ar dates for other flows in the Upper Member (2.81-3.72 Ma) and statistically indistinguishable from the 40Ar/39Ar dates for basal flows of the Upper Member with which the studied flow is broadly correlative (3.61 ± 0.13 Ma). Given the high yield of 4He from U and Th decay, this technique may be especially useful for dating Pleistocene basalt flows. Detailed studies of the variation of (U-Th)/He detrital mineral dates in sedimentary substrates, combined with thermal modeling, may be a valuable tool for physical volcanologists who wish to explore the temporal and spatial evolution of individual flows and lava fields.

Magmatic arc structure around Mount Rainier, WA, from the joint inversion of receiver functions and surface wave dispersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Obrebski, Mathias; Abers, Geoffrey A.; Foster, Anna

2015-01-01

The deep magmatic processes in volcanic arcs are often poorly understood. We analyze the shear wave velocity (VS) distribution in the crust and uppermost mantle below Mount Rainier, in the Cascades arc, resolving the main velocity contrasts based on converted phases within P coda via source normalization or receiver function (RF) analysis. To alleviate the trade-off between depth and velocity, we use long period phase velocities (25-100 s) obtained from earthquake surface waves, and at shorter period (7-21 s) we use seismic noise cross correlograms. We use a transdimensional Bayesian scheme to explore the model space (VS in each layer, number of interfaces and their respective depths, level of noise on data). We apply this tool to 15 broadband stations from permanent and Earthscope temporary stations. Most results fall into two groups with distinctive properties. Stations east of the arc (Group I) have comparatively slower middle-to-lower crust (VS = 3.4-3.8 km/s at 25 km depth), a sharp Moho and faster uppermost mantle (VS = 4.2-4.4 km/s). Stations in the arc (Group II) have a faster lower crust (VS = 3.7-4 km/s) overlying a slower uppermost mantle (VS = 4.0-4.3 km/s), yielding a weak Moho. Lower crustal velocities east of the arc (Group I) most likely represent ancient subduction mélanges mapped nearby. The lower crust for Group II ranges from intermediate to felsic. We propose that intermediate-felsic to felsic rocks represent the prearc basement, while intermediate composition indicates the mushy andesitic crustal magmatic system plus solidified intrusion along the volcanic conduits. We interpret the slow upper mantle as partial melt.

Anomalous Iridium Enrichment at the Triassic-Jurassic Boundary, Blomidon Formation, Fundy Basin, Canada

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kyte, Frank T.

2005-01-01

We present new analyses that confirm Ir enrichment (up to 0.31 ng/g) in close proximity to the palynological Triassic-Jurassic boundary in strata near the top of the Blomidon Formation at Partridge Island, Nova Scotia. High Ir concentrations have been found in at least two samples within the uppermost 70 cm of the formation. Ratios of other PGEs and Au to Ir are generally higher by an order of magnitude than in ordinary chondrites. No impact-related materials have been identified at #is horizon in the Blomidon Formation, therefore we cannot confirm an extraterrestrial source for the anomalous Ir levels. We consider, however, the possibility that regional basaltic volcanism is a potential source for the Ir in these sediments. The elevated Ir concentrations are found in reduced, grey colored mudstones, so redox concentration is a possible explanation for the distribution of Ir in these strata.

Lamellar ichthyosis maps to chromosome 14q11

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

Russell, L.J.; Compton, J.G.; Bale, S.J.

1994-09-01

Lamellar ichthyosis (LI) is a serious skin disorder inherited as an autosomal recessive trait and characterized by large, brown plate-like scales covering the body. Skin involvement is apparent at birth, often as a collodion membrane. Scarring alopecia, ectropion, and secondary hypohidrosis are frequent. We used a panel of candidates genes that are expressed in the epidermis to study seven multiplex Caucasian families in the U.S. and six inbred (multiplex and simplex) families in Egypt. We find no recombination (Z=9.11 at {theta}=0) in either set of families with transglutaminse 1 (TGM1), the gene encoding the enzyme responsible for cross-linking proteins tomore » the cell envelope in the upper-most layer of the epidermis. In addition, striking homozygosity is observed in the inbred families for markers neighboring TGM1, defining a 9.3 cM candidate region which is bounded by MYH7 and D14S275. This is the first report of linkage in LI and suggests that further study of the TGM1 gene may identify the underlying pathogenesis of this severe, disfiguring disorder. Linkage-based genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis is now available for informative at-risk families.« less

Viscoelastic lower crust and mantle relaxation following the 14-16 April 2016 Kumamoto, Japan, earthquake sequence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pollitz, Fred F.; Kobayashi, Tomokazu; Yarai, Hiroshi; Shibazaki, Bunichiro; Matsumoto, Takumi

2017-09-01

The 2016 Kumamoto, Japan, earthquake sequence, culminating in the Mw=7.0 16 April 2016 main shock, occurred within an active tectonic belt of central Kyushu. GPS data from GEONET reveal transient crustal motions from several millimeters per year up to ˜3 cm/yr during the first 8.5 months following the sequence. The spatial pattern of horizontal postseismic motions is shaped by both shallow afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation of the lower crust and upper mantle. We construct a suite of 2-D regional viscoelastic structures in order to derive an optimal joint afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation model using forward modeling of the viscoelastic relaxation. We find that afterslip dominates the postseismic relaxation in the near field (within 30 km of the main shock epicenter), while viscoelastic relaxation dominates at greater distance. The viscoelastic modeling strongly favors a very weak lower crust below a ˜65 km wide zone coinciding with the Beppu-Shimabara graben and the locus of central Kyushu volcanism. Inferred uppermost mantle viscosity is relatively low beneath southern Kyushu, consistent with independent inferences of a hydrated mantle wedge within the Nankai trough fore -arc.

Viscoelastic lower crust and mantle relaxation following the 14–16 April 2016 Kumamoto, Japan, earthquake sequence

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pollitz, Fred; Kobayashi, Tomokazu; Yarai, Hiroshi; Shibazaki, Bunichiro; Matsumoto, Takumi

2017-01-01

The 2016 Kumamoto, Japan, earthquake sequence, culminating in the Mw=7.0 16 April 2016 main shock, occurred within an active tectonic belt of central Kyushu. GPS data from GEONET reveal transient crustal motions from several millimeters per year up to ∼3 cm/yr during the first 8.5 months following the sequence. The spatial pattern of horizontal postseismic motions is shaped by both shallow afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation of the lower crust and upper mantle. We construct a suite of 2-D regional viscoelastic structures in order to derive an optimal joint afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation model using forward modeling of the viscoelastic relaxation. We find that afterslip dominates the postseismic relaxation in the near field (within 30 km of the main shock epicenter), while viscoelastic relaxation dominates at greater distance. The viscoelastic modeling strongly favors a very weak lower crust below a ∼65 km wide zone coinciding with the Beppu-Shimabara graben and the locus of central Kyushu volcanism. Inferred uppermost mantle viscosity is relatively low beneath southern Kyushu, consistent with independent inferences of a hydrated mantle wedge within the Nankai trough fore -arc.

Splint coals of the Central Appalachians: Petrographic and geochemical facies of the Peach Orchard No. 3 split coal bed, southern Magoffin County, Kentucky

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hower, James C.; Ruppert, Leslie F.

2011-01-01

The Bolsovian (Middle Pennsylvanian) Peach Orchard coal bed is one of the splint coals of the Central Appalachians. Splint coal is a name for the dull, inertinite-rich lithologies typical of coals of the region. The No. 3 Split was sampled at five locations in Magoffin County, Kentucky and analyzed for petrography and major and minor elements. The No. 3 Split coals contain semifusinite-rich lithologies, up to 48% (mineral-free basis) in one case. The nature of the semifusinite varies with position in the coal bed, containing more mineral matter of detrital origin in the uppermost durain. The maceral assemblage of these terminal durains is dominated by detrital fusinite and semifusinite, suggesting reworking of the maceral assemblage coincident with the deposition of the detrital minerals. However, a durain in the middle of the coal bed, while lithologically similar to the uppermost durains, has a degraded, macrinite-rich, texture. The inertinite macerals in the middle durain have less distinct edges than semifusinites in the uppermost terminal durains, suggesting degradation as a possible path to inertinite formation. The uppermost durain has higher ash and semifusinite contents at the eastern sites than at the western sites. The difference in the microscopic petrology indicates that megascopic petrology alone can be a deceptive indicator of depositional environments and that close attention must be paid to the individual macerals and their implications for the depositional setting, especially within the inertinite group.

Crustal and uppermost mantle S-wave velocity below the East European Craton in northern Poland from the inversion of ambient-noise records

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lepore, Simone; Polkowski, Marcin; Grad, Marek

2018-02-01

The P-wave velocities (V p) within the East European Craton in Poland are well known through several seismic experiments which permitted to build a high-resolution 3D model down to 60 km depth. However, these seismic data do not provide sufficient information about the S-wave velocities (V s). For this reason, this paper presents the values of lithospheric V s and P-wave-to-S-wave velocity ratios (V p/V s) calculated from the ambient noise recorded during 2014 at "13 BB star" seismic array (13 stations, 78 midpoints) located in northern Poland. The 3D V p model in the area of the array consists of six sedimentary layers having total thickness within 3-7 km and V p in the range 1.85.3 km/s, a three-layer crystalline crust of total thickness 40 km and V p within 6.15-7.15 km/s, and the uppermost mantle, where V p is about 8.25 km/s. The V s and V p/V s values are calculated by the inversion of the surface-wave dispersion curves extracted from the noise cross correlation between all the station pairs. Due to the strong velocity differences among the layers, several modes are recognized in the 0.021 Hz frequency band: therefore, multimodal Monte Carlo inversions are applied. The calculated V s and V p/V s values in the sedimentary cover range within 0.992.66 km/s and 1.751.97 as expected. In the upper crust, the V s value (3.48 ± 0.10 km/s) is very low compared to the starting value of 3.75 ± 0.10 km/s. Consequently, the V p/V s value is very large (1.81 ± 0.03). To explain that the calculated values are compared with the ones for other old cratonic areas.

Summary of Results from Analyses of Deposits of the Deep-Ocean Impact of the Eltanin Asteroid

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kyte, Frank T.; Kuhn, Gerhard; Gersonde, Rainer

2005-01-01

Deposits of the late Pliocene (2.5 Ma) Eltanin impact are unique in the known geological record. The only known example of a km-sized asteroid to impact a deep-ocean (5 km) basin, is the most meterorite-rich locality known. This was discovered as an Ir anomaly in sediments from three cores collected in 1965 by the USNS Eltanin. These cores contained mm-sized shock-melted asteroid materials and unmelted meteorite fragments. Mineral chemistry of meteorite fragments, and siderophole concentrations in melt rocks, indicate that the parent asteroid was a low-metal (4\\%) mesosiderite. A geological exploration of the impact in 1995 by Polarstern expedition ANT-XIV4 was near the Freeden Seamounts (57.3S, 90.5 W), and successfully collected three cores with impact deposits. Analyses showed that sediments as old as Eocene were eroded by the impact disturbance and redeposited in three distinct units. The lowermost is a chaotic assemblage of sediment fragments up to 50 cm in size. Above this is a laminated sand-rich unit that deposited as a turbulent flow, and this is overlain by a more fine-grained deposit of silts and clays that settled from a cloud of sediment suspended in the water column. Meteoritic ejecta particles were concentrated near the base of the uppermost unit, where coarse ejecta caught up with the disturbed sediment. Here we will present results from a new suite of cores collected on Polarstern expedition ANT-XVIIU5a. In 2001, the Polarstern returned to the impact area and explored a region of 80,000 sq-km., collecting at least 16 sediment cores with meteoritic ejecta. The known strewn field extends over a region 660 by 200 km. The meteoritic ejecta is most concentrated in cores on the Freeden seamounts, and in the basins to the north, where the amount of meteoritic material deposited on the ocean floor was as much as 3 g/sq-cm. These concentrations drop off to the north and the east to levels as low as approximately 0.1 g/sq-cm. We were unable to sample the impact south and west of the seamounts, as the deposit was buried beyond the reach of our 25 m piston corer. We estimate that ground zero was in the region just north, or northwest, of the seamounts. There is no evidence that the impactor penetrated the ocean floor or formed a crater. The composition of the melted ejecta is inconsistent with mixing between projectile and terrestrial materials other than seawater salts. X-ray radiographs of sediments reveal details not seen in earlier cores. The uppermost impact unit is well-preserved in several cores, found as much as 50 km from the seamounts to the east, north, and west of the seamounts, where at least 25 cm of this unit is preserved. At greater distances burrowing organisms have mixed the sediments so if this unit did exist, it was too thin to survive bioturbation. These finegrained sediments are clearly laminated, and show alternating layers of low- and high-density (meteoritic) sediments, consistent with ripple formation in an energetic flow regime. We have extracted 35 g of meteoritic melt rock and 3 g of meteorite fragments from sieved sediments. Additionally a 9 g, 2.2 cm meteorite was recovered during opening of one core. The fact that 9\\% of the coarse ejecta is unmelted meteorites may be characteristic of deep-ocean impacts. This may have significance for delivery of organic matter to the early Earth by small impacts into primordial oceans, where actual meteorite fragments can survive in significant amounts. However, a large portion of the meteoritic debris is buried rapidly by the sediments disturbed by the impact.

Imaging Reservoir Siltation and Quaternary Stratigraphy Beneath the Mactaquac Headpond by Acoustic and Ground Penetrating Radar Sub-bottom Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grace, M.; Butler, K. E.; Peter, S.; Yamazaki, G.; Haralampides, K.

2016-12-01

The Mactaquac Hydroelectric Generating Station, located on the Saint John River in New Brunswick, Canada, is approaching the end of its life due to deterioration of the concrete structures. As part of an aquatic ecosystem study, designed to support a decision on the future of the dam, sediment in the headpond, extending 80 km upriver, is being examined. The focus of this sub-study lies in (i) mapping the thickness of sediments that have accumulated since inundation in 1968, and (ii) imaging the deeper glacial and post-glacial stratigraphy. Acoustic sub-bottom profiling surveys were completed during 2014 and 2015. An initial 3.5 kHz chirp sonar survey proved ineffective, lacking in both resolution and depth of the penetration. A follow-up survey employing a boomer-based "Seistec" sediment profiler provided better results, resolving sediment layers as thin as 12 cm, and yielding coherent reflections from the deeper Quaternary sediments. Post-inundation sediments in the lowermost 25 km of the headpond, between the dam and Bear Island, are interpreted to average 26 cm in thickness with the thickest deposits (up to 65 cm) in deep water areas overlying the pre-inundation riverbed west of Snowshoe Island, and south and east of Bear Island. A recent coring program confirmed the presence of silty sediment and showed good correlation with the Seistec thickness estimates. In the 15 km stretch upriver of Bear Island to Nackawic, the presence of gas in the uppermost sediments severely limits sub-bottom penetration and our ability to interpret sediment thicknesses. Profiles acquired in the uppermost 40 km reach of the headpond, extending to Woodstock, show a strong, positive water bottom reflection and little to no sub-bottom penetration, indicating the absence of soft post-inundation sediment. Deeper reflections observed within 5 km of the dam reveal a buried channel cut into glacial till, extending up to 20 m below the water bottom. Channel fill includes a finely laminated unit interpreted to be glaciolacustrine clay-silt and a possible esker - similar to stratigraphy found 20 - 30 km downriver at Fredericton. Future plans include a small scale survey in late summer, 2016 to evaluate the suitability of waterborne ground penetrating radar (GPR) profiling as an alternative to acoustic profiling in areas of gas-charged sediment.

Dinosaurs, spherules, and the “magic” layer: A new K-T boundary clay site in Wyoming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bohor, Bruce F.; Triplehorn, Don M.; Nichols, Douglas J.; Millard, Hugh T., Jr.

1987-10-01

A new Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-T) boundary clay site has been found along Dogie Creek in Wyoming in the drainage of Lance Creek—the type area of the Lance Formation of latest Cretaceous age. The boundary clay was discovered in the uppermost part of the Lance Formation, 4 7 cm beneath the lowest lignite in the Paleocene Fort Union Formation and approximately 1 m above a fragmented dinosaur bone. The boundary clay consists of a basal kaolinitic claystone layer as much as 3 cm thick containing hollow goyazite spherules, overlain by a 2 3 mm smectitic layer (the “magic” layer) containing both shock-metamorphosed minerals and an iridium anomaly of 21 ppb. A palynological break coincides with the base of the claystone layer; numerous Late Cretaceous palynomorph species terminate at this boundary. The paleontological significance of this new boundary site lies in its close association with the well-studied assemblage of dinosaurs and other vertebrates and flora within the type area of the Lance Formation. The spherules at the Dogie Creek site are extremely well preserved by virtue of their replacement by the mineral goyazite. This preservation should facilitate the resolution of the origin of the spherules and of their host layer.

Bedrock topography beneath uppermost part of Aletsch glacier, Central Swiss Alps, revealed from cosmic-ray muon radiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishiyama, Ryuichi; Ariga, Akitaka; Ariga, Tomoko; Käser, Samuel; Lechmann, Alessandro; Mair, David; Scampoli, Paola; Vladymyrov, Mykhailo; Ereditato, Antonio; Schlunegger, Fritz

2017-04-01

In mountainous landscapes such as the Central Alps of Europe, the bedrock topography is one of the most interesting subjects of study since it separates the geological substratum (bedrock) from the overlying unconsolidated units (ice). The geometry of the bedrock topography puts a tight constraint on the erosional mechanism of glaciers. In previous studies, it has been inferred mainly from landscapes where glaciers have disappeared after the termination of the last glacial epoch. However, the number of studies with a focus on the structure beneath active glaciers is limited, because existing exploration methods have limitation in resolution and mobility. The Eiger-μ project proposes a new technology, called muon radiography, to investigate the bedrock geometry beneath active glaciers. The muon radiography is a recent technique that relies on the high penetration power of muon components in natural cosmic rays. Specifically, one can resolve the internal density profile of a gigantic object by measuring the attenuation rate of the intensity of muons after passing through it, as in medical X-ray diagnostic. This technique has been applied to many fields such as volcano monitoring (eg. Ambrosino et al., 2015; Jourde et al., 2016; Nishiyama et al., 2016), detection of seismic faults (eg. Tanaka et al., 2011), inspection inside nuclear reactors, etc. The first feasibility test of the Eiger-μ project has been performed at Jungfrau region, Central Swiss Alps, Switzerland. We installed cosmic-ray detectors consisting of emulsion films at three sites along the Jungfrau railway tunnel facing Aletsch glacier (Jungfraufirn). The detectors stayed 47 days in the tunnel and recorded the tracks of muons which passed through the glacier and bedrock (thickness is about 100 m). Successively the films were chemically developed and scanned at University of Bern with microscopes originally developed for the analysis of physics experiments on neutrino oscillation. The analysis of muon absorption rate enabled us to image a three-dimensional boundary shape between dense granite bedrock (˜ 2.7 g/cm3) and light ice part (˜ 0.8 g/cm3) in the very uppermost part of Aletsch glacier. This is the first application of muon radiography to cryogenic science. Further measurements are presently ongoing to image inside a much larger edifice of Eiger glacier, which straddles on the western flank of the famous Eiger mountain. References: Ambrosino et al. (2015), J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth, 120, 7290-7307. Jourde et al. (2016), Scientific Reports, 6, 33406. Nishiyama et al. (2016), Pure Appl. Geophys., doi:10.1007/s00024-016-1430-9. Tanaka et al. (2011), Earth Planet Sci. Lett., 306, 156-162.

Seismic structure of the crust and uppermost mantle of north America and adjacent oceanic basins: A synthesis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chulick, G.S.; Mooney, W.D.

2002-01-01

We present a new set of contour maps of the seismic structure of North America and the surrounding ocean basins. These maps include the crustal thickness, whole-crustal average P-wave and S-wave velocity, and seismic velocity of the uppermost mantle, that is, Pn and Sn. We found the following: (1) The average thickness of the crust under North America is 36.7 km (standard deviation [s.d.] ??8.4 km), which is 2.5 km thinner than the world average of 39.2 km (s.d. ?? 8.5) for continental crust; (2) Histograms of whole-crustal P- and S-wave velocities for the North American crust are bimodal, with the lower peak occurring for crust without a high-velocity (6.9-7.3 km/sec) lower crustal layer; (3) Regions with anomalously high average crustal P-wave velocities correlate with Precambrian and Paleozoic orogens; low average crustal velocities are correlated with modern extensional regimes; (4) The average Pn velocity beneath North America is 8.03 km/sec (s.d. ?? 0.19 km/sec); (5) the well-known thin crust beneath the western United States extends into northwest Canada; (6) the average P-wave velocity of layer 3 of oceanic crust is 6.61 km/ sec (s.d. ?? 0.47 km/sec). However, the average crustal P-wave velocity under the eastern Pacific seafloor is higher than the western Atlantic seafloor due to the thicker sediment layer on the older Atlantic seafloor.

Shifts in identity and activity of methanotrophs in arctic lake sediments in response to temperature changes

USGS Publications Warehouse

He, Ruo; Wooller, Matthew J.; Pohlman, John W.; Quensen, John; Tiedje, James M.; Leigh, Mary Beth

2012-01-01

Methane (CH4) flux to the atmosphere is mitigated via microbial CH4 oxidation in sediments and water. As arctic temperaturesincrease, understanding the effects of temperature on the activity and identity of methanotrophs in arctic lake sediments is importantto predicting future CH4 emissions. We used DNA-based stable-isotope probing (SIP), quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), andpyrosequencing analyses to identify and characterize methanotrophic communities active at a range of temperatures (4°C, 10°C,and 21°C) in sediments (to a depth of 25 cm) sampled from Lake Qalluuraq on the North Slope of Alaska. CH4 oxidation activitywas measured in microcosm incubations containing sediments at all temperatures, with the highest CH4 oxidation potential of37.5 mol g1 day1 in the uppermost (depth, 0 to 1 cm) sediment at 21°C after 2 to 5 days of incubation. Q-PCR of pmoA and ofthe 16S rRNA genes of type I and type II methanotrophs, and pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA genes in 13C-labeled DNA obtained bySIP demonstrated that the type I methanotrophs Methylobacter, Methylomonas, and Methylosoma dominated carbon acquisitionfrom CH4 in the sediments. The identity and relative abundance of active methanotrophs differed with the incubation temperature.Methylotrophs were also abundant in the microbial community that derived carbon from CH4, especially in the deeper sediments(depth, 15 to 20 cm) at low temperatures (4°C and 10°C), and showed a good linear relationship (R0.82) with the relativeabundances of methanotrophs in pyrosequencing reads. This study describes for the first time how methanotrophiccommunities in arctic lake sediments respond to temperature variations.

Effects of breathing variation on gating window internal target volume in respiratory gated radiation therapy

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

Cai Jing; McLawhorn, Robert; Read, Paul W.

Purpose: To investigate the effects of breathing variation on gating window internal target volume (ITV{sub GW}) in respiratory gated radiation therapy. Method and Materials: Two-dimensional dynamic MRI (dMRI) of lung motion was acquired in ten volunteers and eight lung cancer patients. Resorted dMRI using 4DCT acquisition method (RedCAM) was generated for selected subjects by simulating the image rebinning process. A dynamic software generated phantom (dSGP) was created by moving a solid circle (to mimic the ''tumor'') with dMRI-determined motion trajectories. The gating window internal target area (ITA{sub GW}, 2D counterpart of ITV{sub GW}) was determined from both RedCAM and dSGP/dMRI.more » Its area (A), major axis (L1), minor axis (L2), and similarity (S) were calculated and compared. Results: In the phantom study of 3 cm tumor, measurements of the ITA{sub GW} from dSGP (A=10.0{+-}1.3 cm{sup 2}, L1=3.8{+-}0.4 cm, and L2=3.3{+-}0.1 cm) are significantly (p<0.001) greater than those from RedCAM (A=8.5{+-}0.7 cm{sup 2}, L1=3.5{+-}0.2 cm, and L2=3.1{+-}0.1 cm). Similarly, the differences are significantly greater (p<0.001) for the 1 cm tumor (A=1.9{+-}0.5 cm{sup 2}, L1=1.9{+-}0.4 cm, and L2=1.3{+-}0.1 cm in dSGP; A=1.3{+-}0.1 cm{sup 2}, L1=1.5{+-}0.2 cm, and L2=1.1{+-}0.1 cm in RedCAM). In patient studies, measurements of the ITA{sub GW} from dMRI (A=15.5{+-}8.2 cm{sup 2}, L1=5.0{+-}1.1 cm, and L2=3.8{+-}1.2 cm) are also significantly greater (p<0.05) than those from RedCAM (A=13.2{+-}8.5 cm{sup 2}, L1=4.3{+-}1.4 cm, and L2=3.7{+-}1.2 cm). Similarities were 0.9{+-}0.1, 0.8{+-}0.1, and 0.8{+-}0.1 in the 3 cm tumor phantom, 1 cm tumor phantom, and patient studies, respectively. Conclusion: ITV{sub GW} can be underestimated by 4DCT due to breathing variations. An additional margin may be needed to account for this potential error in generating a PTV{sub GW}. Cautions need to be taken when generating ITV{sub GW} from 4DCT in respiratory gated radiation therapy, especially for small tumors (<3 cm) with a large motion range (>1 cm).« less

Heavy metals in surface lake sediments on the Kola Penninsula as an index of air quality

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

Dauvalter, V.

1996-12-31

The investigations of heavy metal (Ni, Cu, Co, Zn, Pb, Cd, Hg) distribution in sediments of more than 100 lakes were carried out between 1989 and 1994. The study lakes are situated at different distances from two main heavy metal pollution sources of the Kola Peninsula-smelters of the Pechenganickel and Severonickel Companies. To assess the pollution extent of investigated lakes, values of factor and degree of contamination were calculated according to the method suggested by Hakanson (1980). Heavy metal contamination factor (C{sub f}) for each heavy metal was calculated as the quotient of concentration from the uppermost (0-1 cm) sedimentmore » to the mean preindustrial background value (concentrations from 20-30 cm sediment layers) for the investigated region. Degree of contamination (C{sub d}) was defined as the sum of all contamination factors for studied heavy metals. To quantitatively express the potential ecological risk of given contaminants created for ecosystems, risk factor (Er) for each heavy metal has been calculated. Er takes into account the toxicity of a heavy metal and bioproduction index (BPI) of a lake. Risk index (RI) was determined as the sum of all ecological risk factor for studied heavy metals.« less

Time averaging and stratigraphic disorder of molluscan assemblages in the Holocene sediments in the NE Adriatic (Piran)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomasovych, Adam; Gallmetzer, Ivo; Haselmair, Alexandra; Kaufman, Darrell S.; Zuschin, Martin

2016-04-01

Stratigraphic changes in temporal resolution of fossil assemblages and the degree of their stratigraphic mixing in the Holocene deposits are of high importance in paleoecology, conservation paleobiology and paleoclimatology. However, few studies quantified downcore changes in time averaging and in stratigraphic disorder on the basis of dating of multiple shells occurring in individual stratigraphic layers. Here, we investigate downcore changes in frequency distribution of postmortem ages of the infaunal bivalve Gouldia minima in two, ~150 cm-thick piston cores (separated by more than 1 km) in the northern Adriatic Sea, close to the Slovenian city Piran at a depth of 24 m. We use radiocarbon-calibrated amino acid racemization to obtain postmortem ages of 564 shells, and quantify age-frequency distributions in 4-5 cm-thick stratigraphic intervals (with 20-30 specimens sampled per interval). Inter-quartile range for individual 4-5 cm-thick layers varies between 850 and 1,700 years, and range encompassing 95% of age data varies between 2,000 and 5,000 years in both cores. The uppermost sediments (20 cm) are age-homogenized and show that median age of shells is ~700-800 years. The interval between 20 and 90 cm shows a gradual increase in median age from ~2,000 to ~5,000 years, with maximum age ranging to ~8,000 years. However, the lowermost parts of both cores show a significant disorder, with median age of 3,100-3,300 years. This temporal disorder implies that many shells were displaced vertically by ~1 m. Absolute and proportional abundance of the bivalve Gouldia minima strongly increases towards the top of the both cores. We hypothesize that such increase in abundance, when coupled with depth-declining reworking, can explain stratigraphic disorder because numerically abundant young shells from the top of the core were more likely buried to larger sediment depths than less frequent shells at intermediate sediment depths.

Fuel-reduction management alters plant composition, carbon and nitrogen pools, and soil thaw in Alaskan boreal forest

USGS Publications Warehouse

Melvin, April M.; Celis, Gerardo; Johnstone, Jill F.; McGuire, A. David; Genet, Helene; Schuur, Edward A.G.; Rupp, T. Scott; Mack, Michelle C.

2018-01-01

Increasing wildfire activity in Alaska's boreal forests has led to greater fuel-reduction management. Management has been implemented to reduce wildfire spread, but the ecological impacts of these practices are poorly known. We quantified the effects of hand-thinning and shearblading on above- and belowground stand characteristics, plant species composition, carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) pools, and soil thaw across 19 black spruce (Picea mariana) dominated sites in interior Alaska treated 2-12 years prior to sampling. The density of deciduous tree seedlings was significantly higher in shearbladed areas compared to unmanaged forest (6.4 vs. 0.1 stems m−2), and unmanaged stands exhibited the highest mean density of conifer seedlings and layers (1.4 stems m−2). Understory plant community composition was most similar between unmanaged and thinned stands. Shearblading resulted in a near complete loss of aboveground tree biomass C pools while thinning approximately halved the C pool size (1.2 kg C m−2 compared to 3.1 kg C m−2 in unmanaged forest). Significantly smaller soil organic layer (SOL) C and N pools were observed in shearbladed stands (3.2 kg C m−2 and 116.8 g N m−2) relative to thinned (6.0 kg C m−2 and 192.2 g N m−2) and unmanaged (5.9 kg C m−2 and 178.7 g N m−2) stands. No difference in C and N pool sizes in the uppermost 10 cm of mineral soil was observed among stand types. Total C stocks for measured pools was 2.6 kg C m−2 smaller in thinned stands and 5.8 kg C m−2smaller in shearbladed stands when compared to unmanaged forest. Soil thaw depth averaged 13 cm deeper in thinned areas and 46 cm deeper in shearbladed areas relative to adjacent unmanaged stands, although variability was high across sites. Deeper soil thaw was linked to shallower SOL depth for unmanaged stands and both management types, however for any given SOL depth, thaw tended to be deeper in shearbladed areas compared to unmanaged forest. These findings indicate that fuel-reduction management alters plant community composition, C and N pools, and soil thaw depth, with consequences for ecosystem structure and function beyond those intended for fire management.

Reductive reactivity of iron(III) oxides in the east china sea sediments: characterization by selective extraction and kinetic dissolution.

PubMed

Chen, Liang-Jin; Zhu, Mao-Xu; Yang, Gui-Peng; Huang, Xiang-Li

2013-01-01

Reactive Fe(III) oxides in gravity-core sediments collected from the East China Sea inner shelf were quantified by using three selective extractions (acidic hydroxylamine, acidic oxalate, bicarbonate-citrate buffered sodium dithionite). Also the reactivity of Fe(III) oxides in the sediments was characterized by kinetic dissolution using ascorbic acid as reductant at pH 3.0 and 7.5 in combination with the reactive continuum model. Three parameters derived from the kinetic method: m 0 (theoretical initial amount of ascorbate-reducible Fe(III) oxides), k' (rate constant) and γ (heterogeneity of reactivity), enable a quantitative characterization of Fe(III) oxide reactivity in a standardized way. Amorphous Fe(III) oxides quantified by acidic hydroxylamine extraction were quickly consumed in the uppermost layer during early diagenesis but were not depleted over the upper 100 cm depth. The total amounts of amorphous and poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxides are highly available for efficient buffering of dissolved sulfide. As indicated by the m 0, k' and γ, the surface sediments always have the maximum content, reactivity and heterogeneity of reactive Fe(III) oxides, while the three parameters simultaneously downcore decrease, much more quickly in the upper layer than at depth. Albeit being within a small range (within one order of magnitude) of the initial rates among sediments at different depths, incongruent dissolution could result in huge discrepancies of the later dissolution rates due to differentiating heterogeneity, which cannot be revealed by selective extraction. A strong linear correlation of the m 0 at pH 3.0 with the dithionite-extractable Fe(III) suggests that the m 0 may represent Fe(III) oxide assemblages spanning amorphous and crystalline Fe(III) oxides. Maximum microbially available Fe(III) predicted by the m 0 at pH 7.5 may include both amorphous and a fraction of other less reactive Fe(III) phases.

Reductive Reactivity of Iron(III) Oxides in the East China Sea Sediments: Characterization by Selective Extraction and Kinetic Dissolution

PubMed Central

Chen, Liang-Jin; Zhu, Mao-Xu; Yang, Gui-Peng; Huang, Xiang-Li

2013-01-01

Reactive Fe(III) oxides in gravity-core sediments collected from the East China Sea inner shelf were quantified by using three selective extractions (acidic hydroxylamine, acidic oxalate, bicarbonate-citrate buffered sodium dithionite). Also the reactivity of Fe(III) oxides in the sediments was characterized by kinetic dissolution using ascorbic acid as reductant at pH 3.0 and 7.5 in combination with the reactive continuum model. Three parameters derived from the kinetic method: m 0 (theoretical initial amount of ascorbate-reducible Fe(III) oxides), k′ (rate constant) and γ (heterogeneity of reactivity), enable a quantitative characterization of Fe(III) oxide reactivity in a standardized way. Amorphous Fe(III) oxides quantified by acidic hydroxylamine extraction were quickly consumed in the uppermost layer during early diagenesis but were not depleted over the upper 100 cm depth. The total amounts of amorphous and poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxides are highly available for efficient buffering of dissolved sulfide. As indicated by the m 0, k′ and γ, the surface sediments always have the maximum content, reactivity and heterogeneity of reactive Fe(III) oxides, while the three parameters simultaneously downcore decrease, much more quickly in the upper layer than at depth. Albeit being within a small range (within one order of magnitude) of the initial rates among sediments at different depths, incongruent dissolution could result in huge discrepancies of the later dissolution rates due to differentiating heterogeneity, which cannot be revealed by selective extraction. A strong linear correlation of the m 0 at pH 3.0 with the dithionite-extractable Fe(III) suggests that the m 0 may represent Fe(III) oxide assemblages spanning amorphous and crystalline Fe(III) oxides. Maximum microbially available Fe(III) predicted by the m 0 at pH 7.5 may include both amorphous and a fraction of other less reactive Fe(III) phases. PMID:24260377

Mantle-crust interaction at the Blanco Ridge segment of the Blanco Transform Fault Zone: Results from the Blanco Transform Fault OBS Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuna, V. M.; Nabelek, J.; Braunmiller, J.

2016-12-01

We present results of the Blanco Transform OBS Experiment, which consists of the deployment of 55 three-component broadband and short-period ocean bottom seismometers in the vicinity of the Blanco Fault Zone for the period between September 2012 and October 2013. Our research concentrates on the Blanco Ridge, a purely transform segment of the Blanco Fault Zone, that spans over 130 km between the Cascadia and the Gorda pull-apart depressions. Almost 3,000 well-constrained earthquakes were detected and located along the Blanco Ridge by an automatic procedure (using BRTT Antelope) and relocated using a relative location algorithm (hypoDD). The catalog magnitude of completeness is M=2.2 with an overall b value of 1. Earthquakes extend from 0 km to 20 km depth, but cluster predominantly at two depth levels: in the crust (5-7 km) and in the uppermost mantle (12-17 km). Statistical analysis reveals striking differences between crustal and mantle seismicity. The temporal distribution of crustal events follows common patterns given by Omori's law, while most mantle seismicity occurs in spatially tight sequences of unusually short durations lasting 30 minutes or less. These sequences cannot be described by known empirical laws. Moreover, we observe increased seismic activity in the uppermost mantle about 30 days before the largest (M=5.4) earthquake. Two mantle sequences occurred in a small area of 3x3 km about 4 and 2 weeks before the M=5.4 event. In the week leading up to the M=5.4 event we observe a significant downward migration of crustal seismicity, which results in the subsequent nucleation of the main event at the base of the crust. We hypothesize that the highly localized uppermost mantle seismicity is triggered by aseismic slow-slip of the surrounding ductile mantle. We also suggest that the mantle slip loads the crust eventually resulting in relatively large crustal earthquakes.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides and its Utility in Paleoecological Reconstruction of Eocene High Latitude Forests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, C. J.; LePage, B. A.; Vann, D. R.; Johnson, A. H.

2001-05-01

Abundant fossil plant remains are preserved in the Eocene-aged deposits of the Buchanan Lake formation on Axel Heiberg Island, Nunavut, Canada. Intact leaf litter, logs, and stumps preserved in situ as mummified remains present an opportunity to determine forest composition, structure, and productivity of a Taxodiaceae-dominated forest that once grew north of the Arctic Circle (paleolatitude 75-80° N). We excavated 37 tree stems for dimensional analysis from mudstone and channel-sand deposits. Stem length ranged from 1.0 m to 14.8 m (average = 3.2 m). Stem diameter ranged from less than 10 cm to greater than 75 cm (average = 32.2 cm). All stem wood was tentatively identified to genus as Metasequoia sp. The diameters and parabolic shape of the preserved tree trunks indicate that the Metasequoia were about 39 m tall across a wide range of diameters. The allometric relationships we derived for modern Metasequoia (n=70) allowed independent predictions of Metasequoia height given the stand density and stump diameters of the fossil forest. The two height estimates of 40 and 40.5 m match the results obtained from measurements of the Eocene trees. We used stump diameter data (n =107, diameter > 20 cm) and an uniform canopy height of 39 m to calculate parabolic stem volume and stem biomass for a 0.22 ha area of fossil forest. Stem volume equaled 2065 m3 ha-1 and stem biomass equaled 560 Mg ha-1 . In the Eocene forest, as determined from length of stems that were free of protruding branches and from 7 exhumed tree tops, the uppermost 9 m of the trees carried live branches with foliage. In living conifers, branch weights and the amount of foliage carried by branches are well correlated with branch diameters measured where the branch joins the main stem. To determine the biomass in branches and foliage in the Eocene forest, we used relationships derived from large modern Metasequoia. Based on the regression of branch weight v. branch diameter (r2 = 0.97) and foliar biomass v. branch diameter (r2 = 0.91) for living Metasequoia and branch diameters of the Eocene trees, branch biomass of the Eocene trees was estimated to be 28 Mg ha-1 dry weight and foliar biomass (and annual foliar production for this deciduous conifer) of fossil Metasequoia was estimated to be 3.5 Mg ha-1 dry weight. Total standing biomass of the fossil forest was estimated to be 591 Mg ha-1 dry weight. On a stand-average basis, the annual ring width of the trees we sampled equaled 1.3 mm. Based on this ring width our preliminary estimate for the aboveground net primary productivity (NPP) of these forests is 5.9 Mg ha-1yr^{-1}$ (foliage production plus wood production). Thus, these were high biomass forests with moderate productivity typical of modern cool temperate forests similar in stature and total biomass to the modern old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest (USA).

Downward migration of radiocesium in an abandoned paddy soil after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident.

PubMed

Takahashi, Junko; Wakabayashi, Shokichi; Tamura, Kenji; Onda, Yuichi

2018-02-01

After the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident on March 2011, continuous monitoring of the detailed vertical distribution of radiocesium in soil is required to evaluate the fate of radiocesium and establish strategies for remediation and management of the contaminated land. It is especially important to investigate paddy soil because little knowledge has been accumulated for paddy soil and wetland rice is a major staple in Japan. Therefore, we monitored the vertical distribution of 137 Cs in abandoned paddy soil in a planned evacuation zone from June 2011 to March 2016. The decontamination works (i.e., 5 cm of surface soil removal and re-covering with uncontaminated soil) were conducted by the government in 2015. As a result of monitoring, the 137 Cs gradually migrated downward with time and the 137 Cs concentration in the 0-10 cm soil was almost homogenous in October 2014, although it was non-cultivated. The liner relationship was obtained between the median depth, which is the thickness of a soil layer containing half of the total 137 Cs inventory, and the time after the accident, indicating the migration rate was constant (1.3 cm y -1 ) before the decontamination works. After the decontamination works, the 137 Cs concentration in the uppermost surface layer was reduced by 90%, however the total 137 Cs inventory was reduced by only 50-70%. It was shown that the efficiency of 137 Cs removal by the decontamination works decrease linearly over time in fields like the studied paddy, in which the homogenization of 137 Cs concentration occurred. Conversely, the downward migration of 137 Cs to subsurface layers deeper than 10 cm (i.e., plowpan layer) with low permeability rarely occurred. It is expected that these unique trends in distribution and migration of 137 Cs would be found in abandoned paddy soils with properties similar to the studied soil, sandy loam but poorly drained because of the low permeable plowpan layer, although further validation is necessary. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The extent of lunar regolith mixing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nishiizumi, K.; Imamura, M.; Kohl, C. P.; Murrell, M. T.; Arnold, J. R.; Russ, G. P., III

1979-01-01

The activity of solar cosmic-ray-produced Mn-53 measured as a function of depth in the upper 100 g/sq cm of lunar cores 60009-60010 and 12025-12028 is discussed. Analyses of samples from the Apollo 15 and 16 drill stems together with authors' previously published results (1974, 1976), and the Battelle Na-22 and Al-26 data, indicate that in three of the four cases studied the regolith was measurably disturbed within the last 10 m.y. Activities measured in the uppermost 2 g/sq cm indicate frequent mixing within this depth range. The Monte Carlo gardening model of Arnold (1975) was used to derive profiles for the gardened moon-wide average of Mn-53 and Al-26 as a function of depth. The Mn-53 and Al-26 experimental results agreed with theoretical predictions, but the calculated depths of disturbance appeared too low.

Late Eocene stable isotope stratigraphy of North Atlantic IODP Site U1411: Orbitally paced climatic heartbeat at the close of the Eocene greenhouse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coxall, Helen; Bohaty, Steve; Wilson, Paul; Liebrand, Diederik; Nyberg, Anna; Holmström, Max

2016-04-01

Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 342 drilled sediment drifts on the Newfoundland margin to recover high-resolution records of North Atlantic ocean-climate history and track the evolution of the modern climate system through the Late Cretaceous and Early Cenozoic. An early Paleogene deep-sea benthic stable isotope composite record from multiple Exp. 342 sites is currently in development and will provide a key reference section for investigations of Atlantic and global climate dynamics. This study presents initial results for the late Eocene slice of the composite from Site U1411, located at mid depth (˜2850m Eocene paleodepth) on the Southeast Newfoundland Ridge. Stable oxygen (δ18O) and carbon (δ13C) isotope ratios were measured on 640 samples hosting exceptionally well-preserved epifaunal benthic foraminifera obtained from the microfossil-rich uppermost Eocene clays at 4cm spacing. Sedimentation rates average 2-3 cm/kyr through the late Eocene, such that our sampling resolution is sufficient to capture the dominant Milankovitch frequencies. Late Eocene Site U1411 benthic δ18O values (1.4 to 0.5‰ VPDB) are comparable to the Pacific and elsewhere in the Atlantic at similar depths; however, δ13C is lower by ˜0.5 ‰ with values intermediate between those of the Southern Labrador Sea to the north (-1 to 0) and mid latitude/South Atlantic (0.5 to 1.5) to the south, suggesting poorly ventilated bottom waters in the late Eocene North Atlantic and limited production of North Atlantic deep water. Applying the initial shipboard magneto-biostratigraphic age framework, the Site U1411 benthic δ13C and δ18O records display clear cyclicity on orbital timescales. Spectral analysis of the raw unfiltered datasets identifies eccentricity (400 and 100 kyr), obliquity (40 kyr) and precession (˜20 kyr) signals imprinted on our time series, revealing distinct climatic heart beats in the late Eocene prior to the transition into the 'ice house'.

Creation of short microwave ablation zones: in vivo characterization of single and paired modified triaxial antennas.

PubMed

Lubner, Meghan G; Ziemlewicz, Tim J; Hinshaw, J Louis; Lee, Fred T; Sampson, Lisa A; Brace, Christopher L

2014-10-01

To characterize modified triaxial microwave antennas configured to produce short ablation zones. Fifty single-antenna and 27 paired-antenna hepatic ablations were performed in domestic swine (N = 11) with 17-gauge gas-cooled modified triaxial antennas powered at 65 W from a 2.45-GHz generator. Single-antenna ablations were performed at 2 (n = 16), 5 (n = 21), and 10 (n = 13) minutes. Paired-antenna ablations were performed at 1-cm and 2-cm spacing for 5 (n = 7 and n = 8, respectively) and 10 minutes (n = 7 and n = 5, respectively). Mean transverse width, length, and aspect ratio of sectioned ablation zones were measured and compared. For single antennas, mean ablation zone lengths were 2.9 cm ± 0.45, 3.5 cm ± 0.55, and 4.2 cm ± 0.40 at 2, 5, and 10 minutes, respectively. Mean widths were 1.8 cm ± 0.3, 2.0 cm ± 0.32, and 2.5 cm ± 0.25 at 2, 5, and 10 minutes, respectively. For paired antennas, mean length at 5 minutes with 1-cm and 2-cm spacing and 10 minutes with 1-cm and 2-cm spacing was 4.2 cm ± 0.9, 4.9 cm ± 1.0, 4.8 cm ± 0.5, and 4.8 cm ± 1.3, respectively. Mean width was 3.1 cm ± 1.0, 4.4 cm ± 0.7, 3.8 cm ± 0.4, and 4.5 cm ± 0.7, respectively. Paired-antenna ablations were more spherical (aspect ratios, 0.72-0.79 for 5-10 min) than single-antenna ablations (aspect ratios, 0.57-0.59). For paired-antenna ablations, 1-cm spacing appeared optimal, with improved circularity and decreased clefting compared with 2-cm spacing (circularity, 0.85 at 1 cm, 0.78 at 2 cm). Modified triaxial antennas can generate relatively short, spherical ablation zones. Paired-antenna ablations were rounder and larger in transverse dimension than single antenna ablations, with 1-cm spacing optimal for confluence of the ablation zone. Copyright © 2014 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Composite foams

DOEpatents

Williams, Jr., Joel M.; Nyitray, Alice M.; Wilkerson, Mark H.

1991-01-01

Composite foams are provided comprising a first rigid, microcellular, open-celled organic polymer foam having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and a pore size of from about 1 micron to about 30 microns, said first foam containing a second polymer having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 or a second polymer foam having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and a pore size of from about 0.01 microns to about 1.0 micron within the open cells of said first foam.

Composite foams

DOEpatents

Williams, Jr., Joel M.; Nyitray, Alice M.; Wilkerson, Mark H.

1990-01-01

Composite foams are provided comprising a first rigid, microcellular, open-celled organic polymer foam having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and a pore size of from about 1 micron to about 30 microns, said first foam containing a second polymer having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 or a second polymer foam having a density of from about 0.015 g/cm.sup.3 to about 0.20 g/cm.sup.3 and a pore size of from about 0.01 microns to about 1.0 micron within the open cells of said first foam.

Mid-Late Holocene climate variability and fire events in a High Atlantic mountain area in NW Iberia (Picos de Europa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruiz-Fernández, Jesus; Nieuwendam, Alexandre; Oliva, Marc; Lopes, Vera; Cruces, Anabela; Conceição Freitas, Maria; Janeiro, Ana; López-Sáez, José Antonio; Gallinar, David; García-Hernández, Cristina

2016-04-01

In this contribution we present data from a 182 cm-long sedimentary sequence collected in the mid-altitude area of Belbín, a depression dammed by a moraine during the Last Glaciation in the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa (Cantabrian Mountains, NW Spain), in order to reconstruct the environmental changes and the conditioning factors of these changes occurred during the Mid-Late Holocene in this mountain area. The uppermost 60 cm of the sediments have been studied using a multi-proxy analysis including the texture, the organic matter content, the micromorphology of the quartz grains, and the concentration of charcoal particles. The geochronological framework of the environmental and climatic events for the Mid-late Holocene was established with three AMS 14C dates. During the last 6.7 ky cal BP a sequence of environmental changes took place in Belbin area driven by both warmer (between 6.7-5, 3.7-3, 2.6-1.1, 0.87-0.51 and since 0.01 ky cal BP) and colder stages (between 5-3.7, 3-2.6, 1.1-0.87 and 0.51 to 0.01 ky cal BP). The warmer stages were defined by the prevalence of chemical weathering of the quartz grains and relative increases of the C/N ratio. Conversely, during colder stages physical weathering of the quartz grains particles prevailed and the C/N values were lower. During the Late Holocene the sequence shows a progressive increase in the organic matter content, which may be associated with higher temperatures. Higher or lower concentration of charcoal particles according to warmer or colder climatic conditions is not detected, so the fires that have occurred in the area were likely to be related to human-induced fire management for grazing purposes. The period with the most frequent fire events occurred between 3.5 and 3 ky cal BP during the Bronze Age. Other significant peaks of charcoal particles occurred at ca. 2.6, 0.71 and 0.36 ky cal BP. This study shows evidence that the environmental changes occurred during the Mid-Late Holocene in this area of the Cantabrian Mountains are both conditioned by climate variability and human activity. Also, it has been demonstrated the relationship between the type of quartz grains, the weathering intensity (chemical and physical) and the concentrations of charcoal particles. There is a clear relation between the samples that evidence high intensity of chemical and physical weathering with higher average of charcoal particles concentration. Climatic conditions have an important role in weathering intensity, through the combination of silt abundance and cryogenic weathering, but in our study this is not the case, therefore fire most possibly modified local environmental conditions making quartz grains more vulnerable to post-fire situations. This emphasizes the important role of the fires in the micromorphology of quartz grains.

Raman spectra and cross sections of ammonia, chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, phosgene, and sulfur dioxide toxic gases in the fingerprint region 400-1400 cm-1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aggarwal, R. L.; Farrar, L. W.; Di Cecca, S.; Jeys, T. H.

2016-02-01

Raman spectra of ammonia (NH3), chlorine (Cl2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), phosgene (COCl2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) toxic gases have been measured in the fingerprint region 400-1400 cm-1. A relatively compact (<2'x2'x2'), sensitive, 532 nm 10 W CW Raman system with double-pass laser and double-sided collection was used for these measurements. Two Raman modes are observed at 934 and 967 cm-1 in NH3. Three Raman modes are observed in Cl2 at 554, 547, and 539 cm-1, which are due to the 35/35 35/37, and 37/37 Cl isotopes, respectively. Raman modes are observed at 870, 570, and 1151 cm-1 in H2S, COCl2, and SO2, respectively. Values of 3.68 ± 0.26x10-32 cm2/sr (3.68 ± 0.26x10-36 m2/sr), 1.37 ± 0.10x10-30 cm2/sr (1.37 ± 0.10x10-34 m2/sr), 3.25 ± 0.23x10-31 cm2/sr (3.25 ± 0.23x10-35 m2/sr), 1.63 ± 0.14x10-30 cm2/sr (1.63 ± 0.14x10-34 m2/sr), and 3.08 ± 0.22x10-30 cm2/sr (and 3.08 ± 0.22x10-34 m2/sr) were determined for the differential Raman cross section of the 967 cm-1 mode of NH3, sum of the 554, 547, and 539 cm-1 modes of Cl2, 870 cm-1 mode of H2S, 570 cm-1 mode of COCl2, and 1151 cm-1 mode of SO2, respectively, using the differential Raman cross section of 3.56 ± 0.14x10-31 cm2/sr (3.56 ± 0.14x10-35 m2/sr) for the 1285 cm-1 mode of CO2 as the reference.

Manipulative lowering of the water table during summer does not affect CO2 emissions and uptake in a fen in Germany.

PubMed

Muhr, Jan; Höhle, Juliane; Otieno, Dennis O; Borken, Werner

2011-03-01

We simulated the effect of prolonged dry summer periods by lowering the water table on three manipulation plots (D(1-3)) in a minerotrophic fen in southeastern Germany in three years (2006-2008). The water table at this site was lowered by drainage and by excluding precipitation; three nonmanipulated control plots (C(1-3)) served as a reference. We found no significant differences in soil respiration (R(Soil)), gross primary production (GPP), or aboveground respiration (R(AG)) between the C(1-3) and D(1-3) plots in any of the measurement years. The water table on the control plots was naturally low, with a median water table (2006-2008) of 8 cm below the surface, and even lower during summer when respiratory activity was highest, with median values (C(1-3)) between 11 and 19 cm below the surface. If it is assumed that oxygen availability in the uppermost 10 cm was not limited by the location of the water table, manipulative lowering of the water table most likely increased oxygen availability only in deeper peat layers where we expect R(Soil) to be limited by poor substrate quality rather than anoxia. This could explain the lack of a manipulation effect. In a second approach, we estimated the influence of the water table on R(Soil) irrespective of treatment. The results showed a significant correlation between R(Soil) and water table, but with R(Soil) decreasing at lower water tables rather than increasing. We thus conclude that decomposition in the litter layer is not limited by waterlogging in summer, and deeper peat layers bear no significant decomposition potential due to poor substrate quality. Consequently, we do not expect enhanced C losses from this site due to increasing frequency of dry summers. Assimilation and respiration of aboveground vegetation were not affected by water table fluctuations between 10 and >60 cm depth, indicating the lack of stress resulting from either anoxia (high water table) or drought (low water table).

Assessment of shallow methane (CH4) gas using stable carbon and hydrogen isotopes in the sediments of the Gunsan Basin, eastern-central Yellow Sea, off the southwest of Korea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, J. H.; Jeong, K. S.; Woo, H. J.; Kang, J.; Tsunogai, U.

2016-12-01

In the Gunsan Basin, eastern-central Yellow Sea (YS), gas seepages were observed from the uppermost sedimentary layer charged locally with gases that are important indicators of marine resources, environmental changes, and geo-hazards. Methane (CH4) among the gases is the most abundant organic compound in the Earth's atmosphere, where it acts as a greenhouse gas and thus has implications for global climate change. Headspace CH4 was determined in surface and core sediments in order to understand the C- and H- isotopes signatures in the Gunsan Basin that were collected onboard R/V Onnuri and Eardo in 2013 to 2015. The surface sediments contain 0.2 to 16.9 µM CH4 that are mostly produced by microbial fermentation of organic materials in shallow depth, as indicated by the light values of δ13CCH4 (-70.2 -50.7‰ VPDB). CH4 is actively seeping mainly in the western central part of the Gunsan Basin where the underlying sedimentary layers are thick and heavily faulted. In the cores, CH4 is concentrated 1 to 20 μM through the core depths without any relationships to grain size, organic matter contents. Largely different from those, δ13CCH4 ranges in -62.0 -18.0‰ VPDB (δ2DCH4 range in -296.0 -144.0‰ VSMOW), that is, strongly mixed CH4 of thermogenic and biogenic origins in the core sediments. The CH4 flux at the sediment-water interface (SWI) using Fick's first law of diffusion was calculated 2 29 µM·m-2·day-1 (12 µM·m-2·day-1 on the average) by a careful examination of methane distribution within the uppermost 10 cm sediment layer of 8 box cores. It seems that CH4 flux into the water layer in the Gunsan Basin is less significant than other seep areas such as of the Black Sea, Gulf of Mexico, the Bohai Sea. However, detailed and repeated CH4 observation is needed in the Gunsan Basin, as suggested by temporarily but active gas seepage in a wide regional scale.

Intercomparison of radiocarbon bomb pulse and 210Pb age models. A study in a peat bog core from North Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piotrowska, Natalia; De Vleeschouwer, François; Sikorski, Jarosław; Pawlyta, Jacek; Fagel, Nathalie; Le Roux, Gaël; Pazdur, Anna

2010-04-01

Radiocarbon and 210Pb were measured on the uppermost 40 cm of a Wardenaar peat core retrieved from a Baltic raised bog at Słowińskie Błota (Pomerania, North Poland). This site is the subject of ongoing multiproxy studies covering the last 1300 years. Radiocarbon age model was constructed on the basis of 14 AMS dates obtained on selected Sphagnum spp. fragments, with use of P_Sequence tool. We present here a comparison of this model with the age model obtained using CRS model classically applied to 210Pb measurements.

S-wave attenuation structure beneath the northern Izu-Bonin arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Tsutomu; Obana, Koichiro; Kodaira, Shuichi

2016-04-01

To understand temperature structure or magma distribution in the crust and uppermost mantle, it is essential to know their attenuation structure. This study estimated the 3-D S-wave attenuation structure in the crust and uppermost mantle at the northern Izu-Bonin arc, taking into account the apparent attenuation due to multiple forward scattering. In the uppermost mantle, two areas of high seismic attenuation (high Q -1) imaged beneath the volcanic front were mostly colocated with low-velocity anomalies. This coincidence suggests that these high- Q -1 areas in low-velocity zones are the most likely candidates for high-temperature regions beneath volcanoes. The distribution of random inhomogeneities indicated the presence of three anomalies beneath the volcanic front: Two were in high- Q -1 areas but the third was in a moderate- Q -1 area, indicating a low correlation between random inhomogeneities and Q -1. All three anomalies of random inhomogeneities were rich in short-wavelength spectra. The most probable interpretation of such spectra is the presence of volcanic rock, which would be related to accumulated magma intrusion during episodes of volcanic activity. Therefore, the different distributions of Q -1 and random inhomogeneities imply that the positions of hot regions in the uppermost mantle beneath this arc have changed temporally; therefore, they may provide important constraints on the evolutionary processes of arc crust and volcanoes.

Seismic properties of the crust and uppermost mantle of North America

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braile, L. W.; Hinze, W. J.; Vonfrese, R. R. B.; Keller, G. R.

1983-01-01

Seismic refraction profiles for the North American continent were compiled. The crustal models compiled data on the upper mantle seismic velocity (P sub n), the crustal thickness (H sub c) and the average seismic velocity of the crystalline crust (V sub p). Compressional wave parameters were compared with shear wave data derived from surface wave dispersion models and indicate an average value for Poisson's ratio of 0.252 for the crust and of 0.273 for the uppermost mantle. Contour maps illustrate lateral variations in crustal thickness, upper mantle velocity and average seismic velocity of the crystalline crust. The distribution of seismic parameters are compared with a smoothed free air anomaly map of North America and indicate that a complidated mechanism of isostatic compensation exists for the North American continent. Several features on the seismic contour maps also correlate with regional magnetic anomalies.

Effect of Environmental Factors on Germination and Emergence of Invasive Rumex confertus in Central Europe

PubMed Central

Kołodziejek, Jeremi; Patykowski, Jacek

2015-01-01

Rumex confertus is a biennial species native to Eastern Europe and Asia, where it thrives on meadow-steppes and glades in forest-steppe. This species has increased its range rapidly within central Europe, yet its biology is not well understood, which has led to poorly timed management. Effects of temperature, light, sodium chloride (NaCl), hydrogen ion concentration (pH), potassium nitrate (KNO3), and polyethylene glycol 6000 on seed germination were examined. Seedling emergence was examined for seeds sown at different depths in sand-filled pots. Seeds of R. confertus were nondormant at maturity. The germination percentage and rate of germination were significantly higher in light than in darkness. Secondary dormancy was induced in these seeds by 12 weeks of dark incubation at 4°C. The seeds of R. confertus undergo a seasonal dormancy cycle with deep dormancy in winter and early spring and a low level of dormancy in early autumn. Germination decreased as soil salinity increased. NO3 − increased the percentage and rate of germination in the studied species. Decrease in seedling emergence from the seeds buried at >0.5 cm may be due to deficiency of light. From our experiments, we conclude that the weed R. confertus normally becomes established in vegetation gaps or due to disturbance of the uppermost soil layer during the growing season through the germination of seeds originating from a long-lived seed bank. PMID:26229977

Fine crustal and uppermost mantle S-wave velocity structure beneath the Tengchong volcanic area inferred from receiver function and surface-wave dispersion: constraints on magma chamber distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Mengkui; Zhang, Shuangxi; Wu, Tengfei; Hua, Yujin; Zhang, Bo

2018-03-01

The Tengchong volcanic area is located in the southeastern margin of the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian Plates. It is one of the youngest intraplate volcano groups in mainland China. Imaging the S-wave velocity structure of the crustal and uppermost mantle beneath the Tengchong volcanic area is an important means of improving our understanding of its volcanic activity and seismicity. In this study, we analyze teleseismic data from nine broadband seismic stations in the Tengchong Earthquake Monitoring Network. We then image the crustal and uppermost mantle S-wave velocity structure by joint analysis of receiver functions and surface-wave dispersion. The results reveal widely distributed low-velocity zones. We find four possible magma chambers in the upper-to-middle crust and one in the uppermost mantle. The chamber in the uppermost mantle locates in the depth range from 55 to 70 km. The four magma chambers in the crust occur at different depths, ranging from the depth of 7 to 25 km in general. They may be the heat sources for the high geothermal activity at the surface. Based on the fine crustal and uppermost mantle S-wave velocity structure, we propose a model for the distribution of the magma chambers.

Quaternary Turbidite Sedimentation in the Moresby Trough, Preliminary Observations from the Papua New Guinea S2S Study Area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bentley, S. J.; Muhammad, Z.; Dickens, J.; Droxler, A.; Peterson, L.; Opdyke, B.

2004-12-01

Multicores and jumbo piston cores were collected from the Moresby Trough from the R/V Melville in March-April 204 to study patterns of off-shelf sediment flux from the Gulf of Papua to the deep sea over Pleistocene-Holocene timescales. The Moresby Trough represents the primary deep-sea sediment conduit linking the Source to Sink Gulf of Papua study area to the north with the Coral Sea Basin to the south. Core locations were navigated from the surface using dynamic positioning and multibeam bathymetric mosaics collected during the cruise. Selected cores have been analyzed using a multi-sensor core logger, X-radiography, granulometry, and Pb-210 geochronology. Most piston cores collected from the Moresby Trough contain abundant mafic sandy turbidites overlain by fine-grained hemipelagic deposits 1-2 m thick. X-radiographs of multicores reveal mostly bioturbated hemipelagics. However, one core, MV25-0403-24MC, was collected from the axis of a primary channel, and contains at least two fine-grained turbidites within the upper 0.5 m of sediment. The uppermost turbidite contains low but uniform activities of excess Pb-210, and may have been 15-20 cm thick at the time of deposition (i.e., before subsequent disruption by bioturbation), based on fabric and radiochemical evidence. Application of a simple box-model for physical mixing (i.e., during the flow) and subsequent decay suggests that the uppermost turbidite was deposited 70-120 years before present. Bioturbation has since reworked about 60% of the bed, suggesting that such beds will only escape destruction by bioturbation if they are > 10 cm thick, and are deposited more frequently than once per century. Based on these observations, we suggest that gravity flows are presently active in the Moresby trough, and may account for a significant fraction of the hemipelagic drape present in channel systems. However, fabric evidence for these thin, fine-grained beds may be obscured by subsequent bioturbation. Also, at some point in the past, possibly at the onset of the Holocene Transgression, the character of sediment flux to the Moresby Trough shifted from sandy mafic-rich sandy turbidity currents to much finer sediments, delivered downslope by both benthic flows and vertical flux through the water column.

Assessment of dry-stone terrace wall degradation with a 3D approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Djuma, Hakan; Camera, Corrado; Faka, Marina; Bruggeman, Adriana; Hermon, Sorin

2016-04-01

In the Mediterranean basin, terracing is a common element of agricultural lands. Terraces retained by dry-stone walls are used to conserve arable soil, delay erosion processes and retain rainfall runoff. Currently, agricultural land abandonment is widespread in the Mediterranean region leading to terrace wall failure due to lack of maintenance and consequently an increase in soil erosion. The objective of this study is to test the applicability of digital 3D documentation on mountainous agricultural areas for assessing changes in terrace wall geometry, including terrace wall failures and associated soil erosion. The study area is located at 800-1100 m above sea level, in the Ophiolite complex of the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus. Average annual precipitation is 750 mm. Two sites with dry-stone terraces were selected for this study. The first site had a sequence of three terrace walls that were surveyed. The uppermost terrace wall was collapsed at several locations; the middle at few locations; and the lowest was still intact. Three fieldwork campaigns were conducted at this site: during the dry season (initial conditions), the middle and end of the wet season. The second site had one terrace wall that was almost completely collapsed. This terrace was restored during a communal terrace rehabilitation event. Two fieldwork campaigns were conducted for this terrace: before and after the terrace wall restoration. Terrace walls were documented with a set of digital images, and transformed into a 3D point cloud (using web-based services and commercial software - Autodesk 123D catch and Menci Software uMap, respectively). A set of points, registered with the total station and geo-referenced with a GPS, enabled the scaling of the 3D model and aligning the terrace walls within the same reference system. The density (distance between each point) of the reconstructed point clouds is 0.005 m by Umap and 0.025 m by 123D Catch. On the first site, the model analysis identified wall displacements between 3 and 8 cm on 1% of the middle terrace wall. High displacement values (> 8-10 cm) were associated with presence or removal of vegetation and/or data gaps. On the second site, the 3D models indicated that the collapsed terrace had lost a volume of 1.9 m3, which was restored during the communal terrace building event. This digital 3D documentation approach is more economical than laser scanning and it is a promising method for assessment of terrace wall displacement and changes after terrace wall restoration.

Seismic and thermal structure of the crust and uppermost mantle beneath Antarctica from inversion of multiple seismic datasets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiens, D.; Shen, W.; Anandakrishnan, S.; Aster, R. C.; Gerstoft, P.; Bromirski, P. D.; Dalziel, I.; Hansen, S. E.; Heeszel, D.; Huerta, A. D.; Nyblade, A.; Stephen, R. A.; Wilson, T. J.; Winberry, J. P.; Stern, T. A.

2017-12-01

Since the last decade of the 20th century, over 200 broadband seismic stations have been deployed across Antarctica (e.g., temporary networks such as TAMSEIS, AGAP/GAMSEIS, POLENET/ANET, TAMNNET and RIS/DRIS by U.S. geoscientists as well as stations deployed by Japan, Britain, China, Norway, and other countries). In this presentation, we discuss our recent efforts to build reference crustal and uppermost mantle shear velocity (Vs) and thermal models for continental Antarctica based on those seismic arrays. By combing the high resolution Rayleigh wave dispersion maps derived from both ambient noise and teleseismic earthquakes, together with P receiver function waveforms, we develop a 3-D Vs model for the crust and uppermost mantle beneath Central and West Antarctica to a depth of 200 km. Additionally, using this 3-D seismic model to constrain the crustal structure, we re-invert for the upper mantle thermal structure using the surface wave data within a thermodynamic framework and construct a 3-D thermal model for the Antarctic lithosphere. The final product, a high resolution thermal model together with associated uncertainty estimates from the Monte Carlo inversion, allows us to derive lithospheric thickness and surface heat flux maps for much of the continent. West Antarctica shows a much thinner lithosphere ( 50-90 km) than East Antarctica ( 130-230 km), with a sharp transition along the Transantarctic Mountains (TAM). A variety of geological features, including a slower/hotter but highly heterogeneous West Antarctica and a much faster/colder East Antarctic craton, are present in the 3-D seismic/thermal models. Notably, slow seismic velocities observed in the uppermost mantle beneath the southern TAM are interpreted as a signature of lithospheric foundering and replacement with hot asthenosphere. The high resolution image of these features from the 3-D models helps further investigation of the dynamic state of Antarctica's lithosphere and underlying asthenosphere and provides key constraints on the interaction between the solid Earth and the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.

3D Crust and Uppermost Mantle Structure beneath Tian Shan Region from ambient noise and earthquake surface waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, X.; Wen, L.

2017-12-01

As a typical active intracontinental mountain range in Central Asia, Tian Shan Mt serves as the prototype in studying geodynamic processes and mechanism of intracontinental mountain building. We study 3D crust and the uppermost mantle structure beneath Tian Shan region using ambient noise and earthquake surface waves. Our dataset includes vertical component records of 62 permanent broadband seismic stations operated by the Earthquake Administration of China. Firstly, we calculate two-year stacked Cross-Correlation Functions (CCFs) of ambient noise records between the stations. The CCFs are treated as the Empirical Green's Functions (EGFs) of each station pair, from which we measured phase velocities of fundamental-mode Rayleigh wave in the period of 3-40 s using a frequency-time analysis method. Secondly, we collect surface wave data from tele-seismic events with Mw > 5.5 and depth shallower than 200 km and measure phase velocities of the fundamental-mode of Rayleigh wave in the period of 30-150 s using a two-station method. Finally, we combine the phase velocity measurements from ambient noise and earthquake surface waves, obtain lateral isotropic phase velocity maps at different periods based on tomography and invert a 3D Vsv model of crust and uppermost mantle down to about 150 km using a Monte Carlo Inversion method. We will discuss our inversion results in detail, as well as their implications to the tectonics in the region.

Structural evolution of preexisting oceanic crust through intraplate igneous activities in the Marcus-Wake seamount chain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaneda, Kentaro; Kodaira, Shuichi; Nishizawa, Azusa; Morishita, Taisei; Takahashi, Narumi

2010-10-01

Multichannel seismic reflection studies and seismic refraction surveys with ocean bottom seismographs in the Marcus-Wake seamount chain in the northwestern Pacific Ocean reveal P wave velocity structures of hot spot-origin seamounts and adjacent oceanic crust. Inside the seamounts are central high-velocity (>6.5 km/s) structures extending nearly to the top that may indicate intrusive cores. Thick sediment layers (up to 4 km) with P wave velocities of 4-5 km/s have accumulated on seafloor that predates seamount formation. Downward crustal thickening of up to 2 km was documented beneath a large seamount cluster, but thickening was not confirmed below a small seamount cluster. Volume ratios of an intrusive core to a seamount body are 15-20%, indicating that most of the supplied magma was consumed in forming the thick sedimentary and volcaniclastic layer constituting the seamount flanks. Underplating and downward crustal thickening may tend to occur when second or later intrusive cores are formed in a seamount. P wave velocities in the lowest crust and in the uppermost mantle below the seamount chain are 0.1-0.2 km/s higher and 0.3-0.5 km/s lower, respectively, than velocities below oceanic crust. We explain this difference as a result of sill-like intrusion of magma into the lower crust and uppermost mantle. Reflected waves observed at offsets >200 km are from mantle reflectors at depths of 30-45 km and 55-70 km. The shallower reflectors may indicate structures formed by intraplate igneous activities, and the deeper reflectors may correspond to the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary.

Different Risk Factors of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis and Proximal Junctional Failure Following Long Instrumented Fusion to the Sacrum for Adult Spinal Deformity: Survivorship Analysis of 160 Patients.

PubMed

Park, Se-Jun; Lee, Chong-Suh; Chung, Sung-Soo; Lee, Jun-Young; Kang, Sang-Soo; Park, Se-Hwan

2017-02-01

The failure modes, time to development, and clinical relevance are known to differ between proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and proximal junctional failure (PJF). However, there are no reports that study the risk factors of PJK and PJF separately. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for PJK and PJF separately. A retrospective study of 160 consecutive patients who underwent a long instrumented fusion to the sacrum for adult spinal deformity with a minimum follow-up of 2 years was conducted. A separate survivorship analysis of PJK and PJF was performed using the Cox proportional hazards model for the 3 categorical parameters of surgical, radiographic, and patient factors. PJK developed in 27 patients (16.9%) and PJF in 29 patients (18.1%). The median survival time was 17.0 months for PJK and 3.0 months for PJF. Multivariate analyses revealed that a high body mass index was an independent risk factor for PJK (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.179), whereas the significant risk factors for PJF were older age, the presence of osteoporosis, the uppermost instrumented vertebra level at T11-L1, and a greater preoperative sagittal vertical axis (HR = 1.082, 6.465, 5.236, and 1.017, respectively). A large correction of sagittal deformity was shown to be a risk factor for PJF on univariate analyses, but not on multivariate analyses. PJK developed at a median of 17 months and PJF at a median of 3 months. A high body mass index was an independent risk factor for PJK, whereas older age, osteoporosis, uppermost instrumented vertebra level at the thoracolumbar junction, and greater preoperative sagittal vertical axis were risk factors for PJF.

How Accurate Are We in Estimating True Stone Volume? A Comparison of Water Displacement, Ellipsoid Formula, and a CT-Based Software Tool.

PubMed

Jain, Rajat; Omar, Mohamed; Chaparala, Hemant; Kahn, Adam; Li, Jianbo; Kahn, Leonard; Sivalingam, Sri

2018-04-23

To compare the accuracy and reliability of stone volume estimated by ellipsoid formula (EFv) and CT-based algorithm (CTv) to true volume (TV) by water displacement in an in vitro model. Ninety stone phantoms were created using clay (0.5-40 cm 3 , 814 HU ±91) and scanned with CT. For each stone, TV was measured by water displacement, CTv was calculated by the region-growing algorithm in the CT-based software AGFA IMPAX Volume Viewer, and EFv was calculated by the standard formula π × L × W × H × 0.167. All measurements were repeated thrice, and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) was calculated for the whole group, as well as subgroups based on volume (<1.5 cm 3 , 1.5-6 cm 3 , and >6 cm 3 ). Mean TV, CTv, and EFv were 6.42 cm 3  ± 6.57 (range: 0.5-39.37 cm 3 ), 6.24 cm 3  ± 6.15 (0.48-36.1 cm 3 ), and 8.98 cm 3  ± 9.96 (0.49-47.05 cm 3 ), respectively. When comparing TV to CTv, CCC was 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99-0.995), indicating excellent agreement, although TV was slightly underestimated at larger volumes. When comparing TV to EFv, CCC was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.78-0.86), indicating poor agreement. EFv tended to overestimate the TV, especially as stone volume increased beyond 1.5 cm 3 , and there was a significant spread between trials. An automated CT-based algorithm more accurately and reliably estimates stone volume than does the ellipsoid formula. While further research is necessary to validate stone volume as a surrogate for stone burden, CT-based algorithmic volume measurement of urinary stones is a promising technology.

Fumigant toxicity of basil oil compounds and related compounds to Thrips palmi and Orius strigicollis.

PubMed

Kim, Kwang-Ho; Yi, Chang-Geun; Ahn, Young-Joon; Kim, Soon Il; Lee, Sang-Guei; Kim, Jun-Ran

2015-09-01

This study was aimed at assessing the fumigant toxicity to adult Thrips palmi (a serious insect pest) and Orius strigicollis (a beneficial predator insect) of basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil compounds and structurally related compounds using vapour-phase toxicity bioassays. Against adult T. palmi, linalool (LD50 0.0055 mg cm(-3) ) was the most toxic fumigant and was 15.2-fold more effective than dichlorvos (0.0837 mg cm(-3) ). Strong fumigant toxicity was also observed in pulegone (0.0095 mg cm(-3) ), (±)-camphor (0.0097 mg cm(-3) ) and 1,8-cineole (0.0167 mg cm(-3) ). Moderate toxicity was produced by camphene, 3-carene, (-)-menthone, (+)-α-pinene, (+)-β-pinene, α-terpineol and (-)-α-thujone (0.0215-0.0388 mg cm(-3) ). Against adult O. strigicollis, dichlorvos (LD50 9.0 × 10(-10) mg cm(-3) ) was the most toxic fumigant, whereas the LD50 values of these compounds ranged from 0.0127 to >0.23 mg cm(-3) . Based upon the selective toxicity ratio, the compounds described are more selective than dichlorvos. The basil oil compounds described merit further study as potential insecticides for control of T. palmi in greenhouses because of their generally lower toxicity to O. strigicollis and their greater activity as a fumigant than dichlorvos. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.

Atmospheric effects on the remote determination of thermal inertia on Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haberle, Robert M.; Jakosky, Bruce M.

1991-01-01

Measurements of the IR brightness temperature at the Martian surface at many different times of day are presently compared with temperatures predicted by thermal models which allow sunlight to reach the surface unattenuated, in order to determine the thermal inertia of the uppermost 1-10 cm of the Martian surface. The consequences of the assumptions made are assessed in view of results from a different thermal model which invokes radiation-transfer through a dusty CO2 atmosphere, as well as sensible heat-exchange with the surface. Smaller thermal inertias imply smaller particle sizes; the results obtained suggest that low thermal-inertia regions consist of 5-micron, rather than 50-micron, particle sizes.

Size of testes, ovaries, uterus and breast buds by ultrasound in healthy full-term neonates ages 0–3 days

PubMed Central

Kaplan, SL; Edgar, JC; Ford, EG; Adgent, MA; Schall, JI; Kelly, A; Umbach, DM; Rogan, WJ; Stallings, VA; Darge, K

2017-01-01

Background Hormonally-sensitive organs in the neonate can change size within days of birth as circulating maternal estrogen wanes. Although several reports document the size of these organs through infancy, few focus on the near-birth period. Clinical and research evaluation of hormonal and genitourinary disorders would benefit from reference size standards. Objective We describe the size of the uterus, ovaries, testes, and breast buds in healthy term neonates. Materials and Methods As part of the Infant Feeding and Early Development (IFED) study, we sonographically measured the largest diameter of these organs in sagittal, transverse, and anterior-posterior planes for 194 female and 204 male newborns up to 3 days old. We calculated mean, median, and percentiles for longest axis length and for volume calculated from measured diameters. We evaluated size differences by laterality, sex, and race and compared our observations to published values. Results Mean length and volume, respectively, were: uterus, 4.2 cm and 10.0 cm3; ovary, 1.0 cm and 0.2 cm3; testis, 1.1 cm and 0.3 cm3 (0.4 cm3 Lambert volume); female breast bud, 1.2 cm and 0.7 cm3; male breast bud, 1.1 cm and 0.6 cm3. Breast buds were larger in females than males. Laterality differences were typically below the precision of clinical measurement. No significant race differences were detected. Conclusion Using data from our large cohort together with published values, we provide guidelines for evaluating the size of reproductive organs within the first 3 days of life. Discrepancies between our results and published values are likely attributable to technique. PMID:27580909

Foraminiferal record of anthropogenic environmental changes in the northeastern Adriatic Sea (Panzano Bay, Gulf of Trieste, Italy)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vidovic, Jelena; Cosovic, Vlasta; Kern, Vieana; Gallmetzer, Ivo; Haselmair, Alexandra; Zuschin, Martin

2016-04-01

The northern Adriatic Sea is one of the world's largest modern epicontinental seas and a young marine ecosystem that has been subject to various natural and anthropogenic processes during the Holocene: marine transgression, regional climate fluctuations, urbanisation and pollution. The Gulf of Trieste, located in the northeastern part, presents the area of particular interest, as it is a shallow and sheltered embayment, prone to the accumulation of pollutants, populated for at least the last 2000 years and with recent anthropogenic pressure coming from several rivers, ports and industrial zones. The aim of this multidisciplinary study is to provide a high-resolution record of these processes using benthic foraminiferal assemblages, geochemical proxies (trace metals, nutrients and pollutants), sedimentological (sedimentation rates) and time-averaging data (from dated mollusc shells). One core of 1.5 m length was taken at the sampling station Panzano Bay, northernmost part of the Gulf of Trieste, at the water depth of 12.5 m. The sedimentation rate is estimated to be 2.5 mm/year, based on 210Pb sediment dating, while dating of the molluscs shells revealed the age at the bottom of the core to be approximately 500 years. The core was sliced into smaller subsamples, and four sediment fractions of each subsample (63, 125, 250 and 500 μm) were analysed for standard properties of the foraminiferal community (faunal composition, absolute and relative abundances of species, biodiversity indices), in order to make comparison with relevant physical and geochemical properties of the sediment. The results concerning changes in foraminiferal species composition, their abundance and biodiversity, supported by statistical analyses (cluster analysis, NMDS, PCA), allow identification of three major foraminiferal associations: 1) 80-150 cm - the oldest association is dominated by opportunistic genera ans species, characteristic for unstable environments: Valvulineria sp. (25-50%), non-keeled elphidiids (23-39%), Ammonia tepida (5-10%) and Haynesina depressula (5-17%). 2) 25-80 cm - opportunistic species are still highly abundant, but there is the increase in abundances of epiphytic species (Adelosina laevigata, Quinqueloculina seminula, Miliolinella subrotunda). 3) 0-25 cm - the youngest association is characterised by the decrease in abundances of opportunistic species and relative higher precentages of epiphytic species: Eggereloides scabrus, A. laevigata, Q. seminula, M. subrotunda. Foraminiferal biodiversity is increasing from the oldest toward the youngest association. The sediment throughout the core is composed of silty clay. Older sediment intervals (80-150, 25-80 cm) have higher concentrations of major (Fe, Al), minor (Mn, P) and trace elements (Hg, Cr, Cu, Ni, As, Li), compared to the uppermost sediment. The concentrations of Pb, Zn, P, TOC, N tot, PAH and PCB display the opposite trend and increase in the youngest sediment interval (0-25 cm).

Fumigant activity of (E)-anethole identified in Illicium verum fruit against Blattella germanica.

PubMed

Chang, Kyu-Sik; Ahn, Young-Joon

2002-02-01

The insecticidal activities of materials derived from the fruit of star anise, Illicium verum, against adults of Blattella germanica were examined by direct contact application and fumigation methods, and compared with those of DDVP, deltamethrin and hydramethylnon. The biologically active constituent of the Illicium fruit was characterized as the phenylpropene, (E)-anethole, by spectroscopic analysis. In a filter paper diffusion test with females, (E)-anethole caused 80.3% mortality at 0.159 mg cm-2 at 1 and 3 days after treatment (DAT), whereas 16.7% mortality at 3 DAT was achieved at 0.079 mg cm-2. DDVP and deltamethrin gave > 90% mortality at 0.019 mg cm-2 at 1 DAT. At 0.009 mg cm-2, DDVP and deltamethrin showed 73.3 and 60% mortality at 1 DAT, respectively, but 93.3 and 76.7% mortality at 3 DAT. Hydramethylnon exhibited 0 and 93.3% mortality at 0.159 mg cm-2 at 1 and 3 DAT, respectively, whereas 6.7% mortality at 3 DAT was observed at 0.079 mg cm-2. In a fumigation test with females, (E)-anethole was much more effective in closed cups than in open ones, indicating that the insecticidal activity of the compound was largely attributable to fumigant action. (E)-Anethole and DDVP caused 100% mortality at 0.398 and 0.051 mg cm-2 4 and 1 h after treatment, respectively. (E)-Anethole showed 46.7% mortality at 0.199 mg cm-2 at 3 DAT, whereas deltamethrin and hydramethylnon at 0.796 mg cm-2 was ineffective for 3-day period. As naturally occurring insect-control agents, the I verum fruit-derived materials described could be useful for managing populations of B germanica.

S-wave velocity down to the uppermost mantle below the East European Craton in northern Poland from the inversion of ambient noise recorded at "13 BB star" seismic array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lepore, S.; Polkowski, M.; Grad, M.

2016-12-01

The East European Craton (EEC) occupies the northeastern half of Europe. In the most external sedimentary crust (SC), the P-wave velocity (Vp) raises from 2.5 to 4.3 km/s. In the underlying upper crust (UC) the Vp ranges within 6.1-6.4 km/s, 6.5-6.8 km/s in the middle crust (MC), and 6.9-7.2 km/s in the lower crust (LC). The Moho, whose depth is 40-45 km, shows a relatively flat topography, which is advantageous when studying the deep velocity structure. The Vp in the uppermost mantle (UM) down to 100 km is 8.3 km/s. Seismic experiments conducted in Poland along refraction profiles provided significant information about the structure in any layer, but not sufficient for the study of the S-wave velocity (Vs). Thus, Vs and Vp/Vs profiles down to 100 m were evaluated by the Monte Carlo inversion of surface wave velocity dispersion (SWVD) curves retrieved from the crosscorrelation (CC) of ambient noise recorded in northern Poland. The records were carried out during 2014 at the "13 BB star" array equipped with thirteen broadband stations installed during 2013 and scheduled to operate until the end of 2016. Those stations, covering an area of 120 km in diameter, are arranged in a circular, regular geometry, allowing a thorough study of the deep structures. The extraction of the SWVD was performed in the 0.1-1 Hz and 0.02-0.1 Hz frequency bands, to have a good resolution within 0-20 km and 20-100 km. The dispersion curves show different modes because remarkable changes of surface wave attenuation are present in the different layers. All the modes of the SWVD curves were together inverted assuming the characteristics and the Vp values in every layer as known. The Vs [km/s] ranges within 1.0-2.4 in SC, 3.1-3.6 in UC, 3.2-4.3 in MC, 3.2-4.3 in LC, and 4.5-5.1 in UM; Vp/Vs within 1.8-2.0 in SC, 1.7-2.0 in UC, 1.5-2.1 in MC, 1.8-2.1 in LC, and 1.6-1.8 in UM. National Science Centre Poland provided financial support for this work by NCN grant DEC-2011/02/A/ST10/00284.

Distal esophageal hypercontractility is related to abnormal acid exposure.

PubMed

Soto-Pérez, Julio César; Sobrino-Cossío, Sergio; Higgins, Paul B; Comuzzie, Anthony G; Vargas Romero, Jose Antonio; Reding-Bernal, Arturo; López-Alvarenga, Juan Carlos

2011-02-01

Nutcracker esophagus (NE) is a frequent primary motility disorder of the distal esophagus, and the relationship with acid exposure remains controversial. We studied simultaneous distal esophageal hypercontractility (EH) using two sensors at 8 and 3 cm above the lower sphincter (LES) and abnormal exposure to acid (pH DeMeester score). From 400 screened patients with chest pain and heartburn, 54 (age 44.5 ± 8.8 years and 74% females) had abnormal manometry and underwent acid exposure measurement. Frequencies of the EH disorder were classic NE (EH(3 cm)) found in 29 (40.8%) patients, diffuse (EH(3,8 cm)) in 30 patients (42.3%), and upper segmental (EH(8 cm)) in 12 patients (16.9%). We found a positive correlation among age with high amplitude in EH(3 cm) and EH(3,8 cm). DeMeester's score (DMS) had the lowest value for EH(3,8 cm) (2.58 ± 0.23) compared with EH(8 cm) (3.78 ± 0.3, p <0.003) and EH(3 cm) (3.12 ± 0.2, p <0.06). Surface response for joint effect of age and DMS on amplitude at EH(3 cm) confirmed the highest amplitude was for older age and lower DMS. EH(3 cm) and EH(3,8 cm) were common for esophageal motility and were inversely associated with DMS. Meanwhile, acid exposure was higher in younger patients and hypercontractility was more frequent in older subjects. The former group may benefit more from proton pump inhibitors and the latter from visceral analgesics or possibly both. Copyright © 2011 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Applied anatomy of the perforating branches artery and its distally-based flap of sural nerve nutrient vessels].

PubMed

Zhang, Fahui; Xie, Qiyang; Zheng, Heping

2005-07-01

To investigate the distribution of the perforating branches artery of distally-based flap of sural nerve nutrient vessels and its clinical application. The origins and distribution of perforating branches artery of distally-based flap were observed on specimens of 30 adult cadaveric low limbs by perfusing red gelatin to dissect the artery. Among the 36 cases, there were 21 males, 15 females. Their ages ranged from 6 to 66, 35. 2 in average. The defect area was 3.5 cm x 2.5 cm to 17.0 cm x 11.0 cm. The flap taken ranged from 4 cm x 3 cm to 18 cm x 12 cm. The perforating branches artery of distally-based flap had 2 to 5 branches and originated from the heel lateral artery, the terminal perforating branches of peroneal artery (diameters were 0.6+/-0.2 mm and 0.8+/-0.2 mm, 1.0 +/- 1.3 cm and 2.8 +/- 1.0 cm to the level of cusp lateral malleolus cusp). The intermuscular septum perforating branches of peroneal artery had 0 to 3 branches. Their rate of presence was 96.7%, 66.7% and 20.0% respectively (the diameters were 0.9 +/- 0.3, 1.0 +/- 0.2 and 0.8 +/- 0.4 mm, and their distances to the level of cusp of lateral malleolus were 5.3 +/- 2.1, 6.8 +/- 2.8 and 7.0 +/- 4.0 cm). Those perforating branches included fascia branches, cutaneous branches, nerve and vein nutrient branches. Those nutrient vessels formed longitudinal vessel chain of sural nerve shaft, vessel chain of vein side and vessel network of deep superficial fascia. The distally-based superficial sural artery island flap was used in 18 cases, all flaps survived. Distally-based sural nerve, small saphenous vein, and nutrient vessels of fascia skin have the same origin. Rotation point of flap is 3.0 cm to the cusp of lateral malleolus, when the distally-based flap is pedicled with the terminal branch of peroneal artery. Rotation point of flap is close to the cusp of lateral malleolus, when the distally-based flap is pedicled with the heel lateral artery.

Mid-arm muscle circumference as a significant predictor of all-cause mortality in male individuals

PubMed Central

Wu, Li-Wei; Lin, Yuan-Yung; Kao, Tung-Wei; Lin, Chien-Ming; Liaw, Fang-Yih; Wang, Chung-Ching; Peng, Tao-Chun; Chen, Wei-Liang

2017-01-01

Background Emerging evidences indicate that mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) is one of the anthropometric indicators that reflect health and nutritional status, but its correlative effectiveness in all-cause mortality prediction of United States individuals remains uncertain. Methods and findings design We investigated the joint association between MAMC and all-cause mortality in the US general population. A population-based longitudinal study of 6,769 participants aged 40 to 90 years in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All participants were divided into two groups based on the gender: male and female group; each group was then divided into three subgroups depending on their MAMC level. The tertiles were as follows: T1 (18<27.3), T2 (27.3<29.6), T3 (29.6≤40.0) cm in the male group and T1 (15<22.3), T2 (22.3<24.6), T3 (24.6≤44.0) cm in the female group. Multivariable Cox regression analyses and Kaplan–Meier survival probabilities were utilized to jointly relate all-cause mortality risk to different MAMC level. For all-cause mortality in male participants, multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were 0.83 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69–0.98; p = 0.033) for MAMC of 27.3–29.6 cm compared with 18–27.3 cm, and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.61–0.95; p = 0.018) for MAMC of 29.6–40 cm compared with 18–27.3 cm. For all-cause mortality in female participants, multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were 0.84 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69–1.02; p = 0.075) for MAMC of 22.3–24.6 cm compared with 15–22.3 cm, and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.75–1.17; p = 0.583) for MAMC of 24.6–44 cm compared with 15–22.3 cm. Conclusion Results support a lower MAMC is associated with a higher mortality risk in male individuals. PMID:28196081

Magnetostructural relationship for μ2-phenoxido bridged ferric dimers.

PubMed

Yu, Fei; Cao, Zi-Heng; Ge, Jing-Yuan; Sun, Yi-Chen; Ouyang, Zhong-Wen; Zuo, Jing-Lin; Wang, Zhenxing; Kurmoo, Mohamedally

2017-03-27

Three Fe(iii) dimers, [Fe 2 (L-H) 2 ]·2CH 3 CN (1), [Fe 2 (L-OCH 3 ) 2 ] (2) and [Fe 2 (L-OC 2 H 5 ) 2 ]·2CH 3 CN (3), containing the pentadentate O,N,N,O,O-donor Schiff-base ligands with variable size pendants, were synthesized and structurally characterized. The three ligands were generated in situ from 2-(iminomethyl)phenol, 2-methoxy-6-(iminomethyl)phenol and 2-ethoxy-6-(iminomethyl)phenol, respectively. All three crystal structures contain centrosymmetric dimers of edge-sharing octahedra of Fe(iii) ions through a pair of μ 2 -phenoxido bridges. The exchange coupling is ferromagnetic for 1 (J = +0.47(1) cm -1 , ∠Fe-O-Fe = 98.02°) and 2 (J = +0.86(1) cm -1 , ∠Fe-O-Fe = 97.17°), but antiferromagnetic for 3 (J = -0.72(1) cm -1 , ∠Fe-O-Fe = 98.53°), which are correlated by high-field electron paramagnetic resonance revealing moderate magneto-anisotropy of D = -0.24(3) cm -1 , E = 0.08(1) cm -1 for 1, D = -0.38(1) cm -1 , E = 0.11(1) cm -1 for 2, and D = 0.30(3) cm -1 , E = 0.02(1) cm -1 for 3. The exchange couplings were further estimated by DFT calculations, which gave the finest Fe-O-Fe angle of 97.83° for the ferromagnetic-antiferromagnetic crossover.

Photolysis and oxidation of azidophenyl-substituted radicals: delocalization in heteroatom-based radicals.

PubMed

Serwinski, Paul R; Esat, Burak; Lahti, Paul M; Liao, Yi; Walton, Richard; Lan, Jiang

2004-08-06

2-(4-Azidophenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole-3-oxide-1-oxyl (14), 2-(4-azidophenyl)benzimidazole-1-oxide-3-oxyl (16), 2-(4-azidophenyl)-1,2,6-triphenylverdazyl (19), 2-(3-azidophenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole-3-oxide-1-oxyl (21), and (3-azidophenyl)-N-tert-butyl-N-aminoxyl (25) were photolyzed in frozen solution to give S = 3/2 state ESR spectra of the corresponding nitrenophenyl radicals with the following zero-field splitting parameters: |D/hc| = 0.277 cm(-1), |E/hc| < or = 0.002 cm(-1) (7 from 14); |D/hc| = 0.256 cm(-1), |E/hc| < or = 0.002 cm(-1) (8 from 16); |D/hc| = 0.288 cm(-1), |E/hc| < or = 0.002 cm(-1) (9 from 19); |D/hc| = 0.352 cm(-1), |E/hc| = 0.006 cm(-1) (10 from 21); |D/hc| = 0.336 cm(-1), |E/hc| = 0.004 cm(-1) (11 from 25). UB3LYP/6-31G computations and ESR spectroscopic analyses suggest that these are nitreno radicals, even para-linked systems with possible quinonoidal resonance forms. Neat samples of azidophenyl radicals 14 and 21 showed bulk paramagnetic behavior, consistent with the lack of close contacts in their crystal structures. Efforts to make photolabile coordination complexes of 14 and 21 with paramagnetic transition metal ions were unsuccessful: Cu(ClO4)2 x 6H2O instead oxidized them to the corresponding diamagnetic nitrosonium perchlorate salts. Copyright 2004 American Chemical Society

GEMAS: CNS concentrations and C/N ratios in European agricultural soil.

PubMed

Matschullat, Jörg; Reimann, Clemens; Birke, Manfred; Dos Santos Carvalho, Debora

2018-06-15

A reliable overview of measured concentrations of TC, TN and TS, TOC/TN ratios, and their regional distribution patterns in agricultural soil at the continental scale and based on measured data has been missing - despite much previous work on local and the European scales. Detection and mapping of natural (ambient) background element concentrations and variability in Europe was the focus of this work. While total C and S data had been presented in the GEMAS atlas already, this work delivers more precise (lower limit of determination) and fully quantitative data, and for the first time high-quality TN data. Samples were collected from the uppermost 20cm of ploughed soil (A p horizon) at 2108 sites with an even sampling density of one site per 2500km 2 for one individual land-use class (agricultural) across Europe (33 countries). Laboratory-independent quality control from sampling to analysis guaranteed very good data reliability and accuracy. Total carbon concentrations ranged from 0.37 to 46.3wt% (median: 2.20wt%) and TOC from 0.40 to 46.0wt% (median: 1.80wt%). Total nitrogen ranged from 0.018 to 2.64wt% (median: 0.169wt%) and TS from 0.008 to 9.74wt% (median: 0.034wt%), all with large variations in most countries. The TOC/TN ratios ranged from 1.8 to 252 (median: 10.1), with the largest variation in Spain and the smallest in some eastern European countries. Distinct and repetitive patterns emerge at the European scale, reflecting mostly geogenic and longer-term climatic influence responsible for the spatial distribution of TC, TN and TS. Different processes become visible at the continental scale when examining TC, TN and TS concentrations in agricultural soil Europe-wide. This facilitates large-scale land-use management and allows specific areas (subregional to local) to be identified that may require more detailed research. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preliminary paleomagnetic results from the Coyote Creek Outdoor Classroom drill hole, Santa Clara Valley, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mankinen, Edward A.; Wentworth, Carl M.

2003-01-01

Paleomagnetic samples were obtained from cores taken during the drilling of a research well along Coyote Creek in San Jose, California, in order to use the geomagnetic field behavior recorded in those samples to provide age constraints for the sediment encountered. The well reached a depth of 308 meters and material apparently was deposited largely (entirely?) during the Brunhes Normal Polarity Chron, which lasted from 780 ka to the present time. Three episodes of anomalous magnetic inclinations were recorded in parts of the sedimentary sequence; the uppermost two we correlate to the Mono Lake (~30 ka) geomagnetic excursion and 6 cm lower, tentatively to the Laschamp (~45 ka) excursion. The lowermost anomalous interval occurs at 305 m and consists of less than 10 cm of fully reversed inclinations underlain by 1.5 m of normal polarity sediment. This lower anomalous interval may represent either the Big Lost excursion (~565 ka) or the polarity transition at the end of the Matuyama Reversed Polarity Chron (780 ka). The average rates of deposition for the Pleistocene section in this well, based on these two alternatives, are approximately 52 or 37 cm/kyr, respectively.

Comparison of patient-specific internal gross tumor volume for radiation treatment of primary esophageal cancer based separately on three-dimensional and four-dimensional computed tomography images.

PubMed

Wang, W; Li, J; Zhang, Y; Li, F; Xu, M; Fan, T; Shao, Q; Shang, D

2014-01-01

To compare the target volume, position and matching index of the patient-specific internal gross tumor volume (IGTV) based on three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) computed tomography (CT) images for primary esophageal cancer. Twenty-nine patients with primary thoracic esophageal cancer underwent 3DCT and 4DCT scans during free breathing. IGTVs were constructed using three approaches: combining the gross target volumes from the 10 respiratory phases of the 4DCT dataset to produce IGTV10 ; IGTV2 was acquired by combining the two extreme phases; and IGTV3D was created from the 3DCT-based gross target volume by enlarging the 95th percentile of motion in each direction measured by the 4DCT. 0.16 cm lateral (LR), 0.14 cm anteroposterior (AP) and 0.29 cm superoinferior (SI) in the upper; 0.18 cm LR, 0.10 cm AP and 0.63 cm SI in the middle; and 0.40 cm LR, 0.58 cm AP and 0.82 cm in the lower thoracic esophagus could account for 95% of respiratory-induced tumor motion. The centroid position shift between IGTV10 and IGTV2 was all below 0.10 cm, and less than 0.20 cm between IGTV10 and IGTV3D . IGTV10 was bigger than IGTV2 ; the mean value of matching index for IGTV2 to IGTV10 was 0.87 ± 0.05, 0.85 ± 0.06 and 0.83 ± 0.05 for upper, middle and distal thoracic esophageal tumors, respectively, and just 0.57 ± 0.11, 0.56 ± 0.13 and 0.40 ± 0.03 between IGTV3D and IGTV10 . 4DCT-based IGTV10 is a reasonable patient-specific IGTV for primary thoracic esophageal cancer, and IGTV2 is considered as an acceptable alternative to IGTV10 . However, it seems unreasonable to use IGTV3D substitute IGTV10 . © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Stable silicon isotope signatures of marine pore waters - Biogenic opal dissolution versus authigenic clay mineral formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ehlert, Claudia; Doering, Kristin; Wallmann, Klaus; Scholz, Florian; Sommer, Stefan; Grasse, Patricia; Geilert, Sonja; Frank, Martin

2016-10-01

Dissolved silicon isotope compositions have been analysed for the first time in pore waters (δ30SiPW) of three short sediment cores from the Peruvian margin upwelling region with distinctly different biogenic opal content in order to investigate silicon isotope fractionation behaviour during early diagenetic turnover of biogenic opal in marine sediments. The δ30SiPW varies between +1.1‰ and +1.9‰ with the highest values occurring in the uppermost part close to the sediment-water interface. These values are of the same order or higher than the δ30Si of the biogenic opal extracted from the same sediments (+0.3‰ to +1.2‰) and of the overlying bottom waters (+1.1‰ to +1.5‰). Together with dissolved silicic acid concentrations well below biogenic opal saturation, our collective observations are consistent with the formation of authigenic alumino-silicates from the dissolving biogenic opal. Using a numerical transport-reaction model we find that approximately 24% of the dissolving biogenic opal is re-precipitated in the sediments in the form of these authigenic phases at a relatively low precipitation rate of 56 μmol Si cm-2 yr-1. The fractionation factor between the precipitates and the pore waters is estimated at -2.0‰. Dissolved and solid cation concentrations further indicate that off Peru, where biogenic opal concentrations in the sediments are high, the availability of reactive terrigenous material is the limiting factor for the formation of authigenic alumino-silicate phases.

Validation of the BOD POD with hydrostatic weighing: influence of body clothing.

PubMed

Fields, D A; Hunter, G R; Goran, M I

2000-02-01

Whole body air-displacement plethysmography (BOD POD), a new body composition technique, was validated against hydrodensitometry (UWW) in 67 women wearing a one-piece swimsuit (OP) who represent a wide range of body fatness and age. Additionally, the effect of trapped isothermic air in clothing while in the BOD POD was examined by comparing different clothing schemes (a one-piece swimsuit (OP), two-piece swimsuit (TP), a hospital gown (HG), and a hospital gown previously included in a volume calibration (GC)) in a subset of 25 women. Cross-sectional data analysis. 67 healthy Caucasian females. Body density g/cm3 (Db) by BOD POD and UWW. In 67 females UWW Db (1.030+/-0.020 g/cm3) was higher (P<0.01) than BOD POD Db (1. 028+/-0.020 g/cm3). This is a difference of 1.0% fat. The R2 was 0. 94, SEE was 0.005 g/cm3 and the regression between Db by UWW and BOD POB did not significantly deviate from the line of identity. In the subset group of 25 subjects, OP Db (1.040+/-0.014 g/cm3) and TP Db (1.040+/-0.014 g/cm3) were significantly lower (P<0.01) than UWW Db (1.044+/-0.014 g/cm3) or a difference of 1.9% fat. The R2 was 0.86 and the SEE was 0.005 g/cm3 and the regression between Db by UWW and both OP and TP did not significantly deviate from the line of identity. HG Db (1.056+/-0.016 g/cm3) and GC Db (1.037+/-0.016 g/cm3) were significantly different (P<0.01) from UWW Db (1.044+/-0. 014 g/cm3). This difference in density translates to a difference of 5.5% and 3.2% fat respectively. The regression between Db by UWW and both HG and GC significantly deviated from the line of identity. This study supports the use of the BOD POD as a substitute for UWW. However, caution should be made in using the BOD POD if subjects are clothed in anything other than a tight fitting swimsuit.

Evaluation of latent variances in Monte Carlo dose calculations with Varian TrueBeam photon phase-spaces used as a particle source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alhakeem, Eyad; Zavgorodni, Sergei

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the latent variance (LV) of Varian TrueBeam photon phase-space files (PSF) for open 10  ×  10 cm2 and small stereotactic fields and estimate the number of phase spaces required to be summed up in order to maintain sub-percent LV in Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculations. BEAMnrc/DOSXYZnrc software was used to transport particles from Varian phase-space files (PSFA) through the secondary collimators. Transported particles were scored into another phase-space located under the jaws (PSFB), or transported further through the cone collimators and scored straight below, forming PSFC. Phase-space files (PSFB) were scored for 6 MV-FFF, 6 MV, 10 MV-FFF, 10 MV and 15 MV beams with 10  ×  10 cm2 field size, and PSFC were scored for 6 MV beam under circular cones of 0.13, 0.25, 0.35, and 1 cm diameter. Both PSFB and PSFC were transported into a water phantom with particle recycling number ranging from 10 to 1000. For 10  ×  10 cm2 fields 0.5  ×  0.5  ×  0.5 cm3 voxels were used to score the dose, whereas the dose was scored in 0.1  ×  0.1  ×  0.5 cm3 voxels for beams collimated with small cones. In addition, for small 0.25 cm diameter cone-collimated 6 MV beam, phantom voxel size varied as 0.02  ×  0.02  ×  0.5 cm3, 0.05  ×  0.05  ×  0.5 cm3 and 0.1  ×  0.1  ×  0.5 cm3. Dose variances were scored in all cases and LV evaluated as per Sempau et al. For the 10  ×  10 cm2 fields calculated LVs were greatest at the phantom surface and decreased with depth until they reached a plateau at 5 cm depth. LVs were found to be 0.54%, 0.96%, 0.35%, 0.69% and 0.57% for the 6 MV-FFF, 6 MV, 10 MV-FFF, 10 MV and 15 MV energies, respectively at the depth of 10 cm. For the 6 MV phase-space collimated with cones of 0.13, 0.25, 0.35, 1.0 cm diameter, the LVs calculated at 1.5 cm depth were 75.6%, 25.4%, 17.6% and 8.0% respectively. Calculated LV for the 0.25 cm cone-collimated 6 MV beam were 61.2%, 40.7%, 22.5% in 0.02  ×  0.02  ×  0.5 cm3, 0.05  ×  0.05  ×  0.5 cm3 and 0.1  ×  0.1  ×  0.5 cm3 voxels respectively. In order to achieve sub-percent LV in open 10  ×  10 cm2 field MC simulations a single PSF can be used, whereas for small SRS fields (0.13-1.0 cm) more PSFs (66-8 PSFs) would have to be summed.

Woody encroachment and soil carbon stocks in subalpine areas in the Central Spanish Pyrenees.

PubMed

Nadal-Romero, E; Otal-Laín, I; Lasanta, T; Sánchez-Navarrete, P; Errea, P; Cammeraat, E

2018-05-01

Woody encroachment has been an ongoing process in the subalpine belt of Mediterranean mountains, after land abandonment, the disappearance of the transhumant system and the decrease of the livestock number. The main objectives of this study were: (i) to identify land use/land cover (LULC) changes from 1956 to 2015, and (ii) to investigate the effects of LULC changes in physical and chemical soil properties and soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) stocks. It is hypothesized that woody encroachment in the subalpine belt may lead to significant changes in soil properties, and will generate an increase in the SOC stocks. A land use gradient was identified in the subalpine belt of the Central Spanish Pyrenees: (i) subalpine grasslands, (ii) shrublands, (iii) young forests, and (iv) old forests. Mineral soil samples were collected every 10 cm, down to 40 cm, at three points per each LULC and a total of 48 samples were analyzed. The results showed that (i) woody encroachment has occurred from 1956 to 2015 due to the expansion of coniferous forests and shrublands (at the expense of grasslands), (ii) land cover and soil depth had significant effects on soil properties (except for pH), being larger in the uppermost 0-10 cm depth, (iii) SOC and N contents and stocks were higher in the grassland sites, and (iv) the woody encroachment process initially produced a decrease in the SOC stocks (shrublands), but no differences were observed considering the complete soil profile between grasslands and young and old forests. Further studies, describing SOC stabilization and quantifying above-ground carbon (shrub and tree biomass) are required. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Creation of short microwave ablation zones: In Vivo Characterization of single and paired Modified Triaxial Antennas Laboratory Investigation

PubMed Central

Lubner, Meghan G.; Ziemlewicz, Tim J; Hinshaw, J. Louis; Lee, Fred T.; Sampson, Lisa J.; Brace, Chris L.

2014-01-01

Purpose To characterize modified triaxial microwave antennas configured to produce short ablation zones. Materials and Methods 50 single- and 27 paired-antenna hepatic ablations were performed in domestic swine (n=11) with 17-gauge, gas-cooled modified triaxial antennas powered at 65W from a 2.45 GHz generator. Single-antenna ablations were performed at 2 (n=16), 5 (n=21), and 10 (n=13) minutes. Paired-antenna ablations were performed at 1-cm and 2-cm spacing for 5 (n=7, n=8) and 10 minutes (n=7, n=5). Mean transverse width, length and aspect ratio of sectioned ablation zones were measured and compared. Results For single antennas, mean ablation zone length was 2.9±0.45, 3.5±0.55 and 4.2±0.40 cm at 2, 5, and 10 minutes respectively. Mean width was 1.8±0.3, 2.0±0.32, 2.5±0.25 cm at 2, 5, and 10 minutes. For paired antennas, mean length at 5 min 1 and 2 cm and 10 min 1 and 2 cm spacing was 4.2±0.9, 4.4±0.9, 4.8±0.5 and 4.3±0.9 cm respectively. Mean width was 3.1±1.0, 4.0±0.8 and 3.8±0.4, 4.2±0.6 cm respectively. Paired-antenna ablations were more spherical (aspect ratios 0.72-0.79 for 5-10 min) than single-antenna ablations (0.57-0.59). For paired-antenna ablations, 1 cm spacing appeared optimal, with improved circularity and decreased clefting compared to 2 cm spacing (circ 1 cm 0.85, 2 cm 0.78). Conclusion Modified triaxial antennas can generate relatively short, spherical ablation zones. Paired-antenna ablations were rounder and larger in transverse dimension compared to single antenna ablations, with 1 cm spacing optimal for confluence of the ablation zone. PMID:25156644

Sampling the Uppermost Surface of Airless Bodies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noble, S. K.; Keller, L. P.; Christoffersen, R.

2011-01-01

The uppermost surface of an airless body is a critical source of ground-truth information for the various remote sensing techniques that only penetrate nanometers to micrometers into the surface. Such samples will also be vital for understanding conditions at the surface and acquiring information about how the body interacts with its environment, including solar wind interaction, grain charging and levitation [1]. Sampling the uppermost surface while preserving its structure (e.g. porosity, grain-to-grain contacts) however, is a daunting task that has not been achieved on any sample return mission to date.

Estimation of pulmonary artery pressure in patients with primary pulmonary hypertension by quantitative analysis of magnetic resonance images.

PubMed

Murray, T I; Boxt, L M; Katz, J; Reagan, K; Barst, R J

1994-01-01

The use of magnetic resonance (MR) images for estimating mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) was tested by comparing main pulmonary artery (MPA) and middescending thoracic aorta (AO) caliber in 12 patients with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) with measurements made in eight other patients who were observed for diseases other than heart disease (controls). The ratio MPA/AO and the ratios of vessel caliber normalized to body surface area (MPAI and AOI, respectively) were computed. The PAP was obtained in all PPH patients and compared with caliber measurements. The PPH MPA (3.6 +/- 0.8 cm) was significantly larger than the control MPA (2.9 +/- 0.3 cm, p = 0.02); the PPH MPAI (2.8 +/- 0.7 cm/M2) was significantly greater than the control MPA (1.7 +/- 0.2 cm/M2, p < 0.0001). Control AO (2.2 +/- 0.3 cm) was significantly greater than PPH AO (1.6 +/- 0.4 cm, p < 0.0001); there was no significant difference between control AOI (1.3 +/- 0.2 cm/M2) and PPH AOI (1.2 +/- 0.2 cm/M2, p = 0.25). The PPH MPA/AO (2.3 +/- 0.6) was significantly greater than the control MPA/AO (1.3 +/- 0.1, p < 0.0001); overlap between MPA in the two groups was eliminated by indexing values to AO caliber (MPA/AO). Among PPH patients there was strong correlation between PAP and MPA/AO (PAP = 24 x MPA/AO + 3.7, r = 0.7, p < 0.01). Increased MPA/AO denotes the presence of pulmonary hypertension and may be used to estimate PAP.

Soil mixing and transport increase inventories of mineral surface area and organic carbon, with systematic shifts in C/N, δ13C, and δ15N, along a forested hillslope transect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher, B.; Yoo, K.; Aufdenkampe, A. K.; Nater, E. A.; Aalto, R. E.; Marquard, J.

2017-12-01

The quantity of organic carbon (OC) per unit of mineral surface area (OC/SA) and the inventory of organic carbon increased by a factor of 2-3 as result of soil mixing due to soil creep, erosional movement, and in situ mixing process in a soil transect in a first-order forested watershed in the Christina River Basin Critical Zone Observatory. In the uppermost 5 meters, 50-75% of mineral specific surface area was contributed by citrate-dithionate extractable forms of iron and aluminum that comprised less than 2.5% of the total sample mass. As soils were redistributed to depositional landscape positions, mixing processes systematically decreased C/N and enriched stable isotopes of C ( δ13C) and N ( δ15N). Radiocarbon (14C) concentration of light and dense fraction OC (divided at 2.0 g cm-3), increased with depth, but results of light fraction radiocarbon were obscured by 3000-year-old charcoal. Short range order Fe- and Al-bearing minerals contributed the vast majority of specific surface area, and this finding has implications for the stability and longevity of organomineral complexes. We identified a strong correlation between C/N and the ratio of OC to mineral surface area (OC/SA), indicating that the processes that associate organic matter and minerals are fundamentally linked with organic matter composition, and both properties may provide a proxy for organic matter stabilization by soil minerals.

Dosimetric Factors and Toxicity in Highly Conformal Thoracic Reirradiation

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

Binkley, Michael S.; Hiniker, Susan M.; Chaudhuri, Aadel

Purpose: We determined cumulative dose to critical structures, rates of toxicity, and outcomes following thoracic reirradiation. Methods and Materials: We retrospectively reviewed our institutional database for patients treated between 2008 and 2014, who received thoracic reirradiation with overlap of 25% prescribed isodose lines. Patients received courses of hyperfractionated (n=5), hypofractionated (n=5), conventionally fractionated (n=21), or stereotactic ablative radiation therapy (n=51). Doses to critical structures were converted to biologically effective dose, expressed as 2 Gy per fraction equivalent dose (EQD2; α/β = 2 for spinal cord; α/β = 3 for other critical structures). Results: We identified 82 courses (44 for retreatment) in 38 patients reirradiated atmore » a median 16 months (range: 1-71 months) following initial RT. Median follow-up was 17 months (range: 3-57 months). Twelve- and 24-month overall survival rates were 79.6% and 57.3%, respectively. Eighteen patients received reirradiation for locoregionally recurrent non-small cell lung cancer with 12-month rates of local failure and regional recurrence and distant metastases rates of 13.5%, 8.1%, and 15.6%, respectively. Critical structures receiving ≥75 Gy EQD2 included spinal cord (1 cm{sup 3}; n=1), esophagus (1 cm{sup 3}; n=10), trachea (1 cm{sup 3}; n=11), heart (1 cm{sup 3}; n=9), aorta (1 cm{sup 3}; n=16), superior vena cava (1 cm{sup 3}; n=12), brachial plexus (0.2 cm{sup 3}; n=2), vagus nerve (0.2 cm{sup 3}; n=7), sympathetic trunk (0.2 cm{sup 3}; n=4), chest wall (30 cm{sup 3}; n=12), and proximal bronchial tree (1 cm{sup 3}; n=17). Cumulative dose-volume (D cm{sup 3}) toxicity following reirradiation data included esophagitis grade ≥2 (n=3, D1 cm{sup 3} range: 41.0-100.6 Gy), chest wall grade ≥2 (n=4; D30 cm{sup 3} range: 35.0-117.2 Gy), lung grade 2 (n=7; V20{sub combined-lung} range: 4.7%-21.7%), vocal cord paralysis (n=2; vagus nerve D0.2 cm{sup 3} range: 207.5-302.2 Gy), brachial plexopathy (n=1; D0.2 cm{sup 3} = 242.5 Gy), and Horner's syndrome (n=1; sympathetic trunk D0.2 cm{sup 3} = 130.8 Gy). No grade ≥4 toxicity was observed. Conclusions: Overlapping courses of reirradiation can be safely delivered with acceptable toxicity. Some toxicities occurred acutely at doses considered safe for a single course of therapy (esophagus). We observed rib fracture, brachial plexopathy, and Horner's syndrome for patients receiving high cumulative doses to corresponding critical structures.« less

Fourier Image Synthesis and Slope Spectrum Analysis of Deepwater, Windwave Scenes Viewed at Brewster’s Angle

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-01-01

reflection is simulated by a one- level ray trace with selective filtering of the RGB color ’spectrum’ Fractal and sequential Markov-chain synthesis tech...above water level [cm/sec], and vfric = the wind friction velocity at the water surface (i.e. z = 0 cm). vfric and the wind velocity v [cm/sec] at height...12 cm/sec 1000 0 -4.5 -4.0 -3.5 -3.0 -2.5 -2.0 -1.5 -1.0 -. 5 0 .5 1.0 LOGI0(k (k: 1/cm) ------------------------------------------------------ FIGUE

Dynamics of the benthic boundary layer and seafloor contributions to oxygen depletion on the Oregon inner shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCann-Grosvenor, Kristina; Reimers, Clare E.; Sanders, Rhea D.

2014-08-01

Measurement of in situ O2 consumption and production within permeable sediments, such as those found over the Oregon-Washington inner shelf, has traditionally been done using methods that isolate the sediments from the dynamic influences of currents and wave motions. Modified from atmospheric research, the non-invasive eddy correlation technique can be used to characterize benthic boundary layer dynamics and measure O2 flux across the sediment-water interface without excluding the natural hydrodynamic flow. In 2009, eddy correlation measurements were made in 5 discrete months with varying conditions at a 30 m site off Yaquina Head, Newport, OR. The O2 flux was found to be primarily into the bed (-18±3 mmol m-2 d-1; mean±SE, n=137 15-min bursts) but was sensitive to non-steady state changes in O2 concentrations caused by the differential advection of water masses with variable mean O2 concentrations. Important contributions to O2 eddy fluxes at surface wave frequencies were seen in eddy correlation cospectra and these are interpreted as being indicative of consumption enhanced by advective transport of O2 into the bed. The sediments were deposits of fine sand with permeabilities of 1.3-4.7×10-11 m2 and wave-generated ripples. Sediment pigment and organic carbon concentrations were low (chlorophyll-α: 0.02-0.45 μg g-1, phaeophytin-α: 0.38-1.38 μg g-1 and organic carbon: 0.05-0.39% dry wt in discrete depth intervals from cores collected between March and October), but it was evident that during the summer fresh pigments were trapped in the sand and rapidly mixed over the uppermost 0-13 cm. From these results it is inferred that physical forcing associated largely with waves and currents may accentuate the role of sediment-covered inner shelf habitats as a regional O2 sink compared to the middle shelf. In effect, the action of waves and currents in the benthic boundary layer enables aerobic respiration that counterbalances the oxygenation of the water column by primary production and mixing in the surface layer.

A Laboratory Railgun for Terminal Ballistics and Arc Armature Research Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-06-01

Projectile Velocity Profile 3000 2500 - 2000 U.4J 500 0 1000 -Bank Energy - 4.5 MJ Rail Height - 3 cm Rail Thickness - I cm Injection Vel . - 300 rn/s...1250 Rail Height - 3 cm Rail Thickness - i cm Injection Vel . - 300 m/s 1000 c 750 L U 500 250 0 I I 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 Time. ms Figure 2.10... Vel . - 300 m/s L/R - 5 ms U S200 L ISO C- Si i5 to-000 50 0 0 2 3 Position Wm) Figure 2.11. Baseline Design Pressure Profile barrel length to

Right Ventricle before and after Atrial Septal Defect Device Closure.

PubMed

Akula, Vidya Sagar; Durgaprasad, Rajasekhar; Velam, Vanajakshamma; Kasala, Latheef; Rodda, Madhavi; Erathi, Harsha Vardhan

2016-09-01

Percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure is a safe and effective means of reducing or eliminating interatrial shunting. The response of the right heart to device closure is incompletely understood. To evaluate the effects of transcatheter closure of secundum ASD on right ventricle size and function, that is, both systolic and diastolic by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) over a 6-month period. Seventy-three patients had 73 device implantations. The patients were assessed with echocardiography before and at 1 and 6 months after procedure. Mean age was 26 ± 17 years. Mean ASD size indexed to body surface area (BSA) was 19.1 ± 8.6 mm/m(2) . The device size ranged from 12 to 42 mm. One month after closure, there were statistically significant decreases in right ventricular (RV) basal diameter (3.5 ± 0.7 cm vs. 4.2 ± 0.8 cm), RV/LV end-diastolic diameter ratio (0.9 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2), left ventricular eccentricity index (LVEI) (1.0 ± 0.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.2), right atrial (RA) major dimension (4.4 ± 0.8 cm vs. 4.8 ± 1.0 cm), RA end-systolic area (13.2 ± 4.6 cm(2) vs. 18.5 ± 6.7 cm(2) ), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (2.2 ± 1.8 cm vs. 2.8 ± 0.5 cm), tricuspid annular systolic velocity (TASV or S') (13.1 ± 3.0 cm/sec vs. 16.0 ± 2.8 cm/sec), E/A (1.4 ± 0.3 vs. 1.7 ± 0.5), and E/e' (5.9 ± 5.0 vs. 7.2 ± 2.0) in comparison with baseline. Six months after closure, there were statistically significant decreases in RV major dimension (5.9 ± 1.1 cm vs. 6.3 ± 1.0 cm), RV/LV end-diastolic diameter ratio (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 0.9 ± 0.1), RA major dimension (4.1 ± 0.8 cm vs. 4.4 ± 0.8 cm), and RA end-systolic area (11.4 ± 3.8 cm(2) vs. 13.2 ± 4.6 cm(2) ) in comparison with 1 month post-device closure. After 6 months, there was a statistically insignificant increase in both TASV (13.7 ± 2.8 cm/sec vs. 13.1 ± 3.0 cm/sec) and TAPSE (2.5 ± 1.6 cm/sec vs. 2.2 ± 1.8 cm/sec). There was no significant change in tissue Doppler MPI at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months after closure (0.38 ± 0.19 vs. 0.35 ± 0.15 vs. 0.38 ± 0.13). There was significant decrease in E/e' from baseline to 1 month and 1 month to 6 months after closure (7.2 ± 2.0 vs. 5.9 ± 5.0 vs. 4.7 ± 1.5). RV volumes decreased significantly in the first month after ASD device closure and continued up to 6 months. There was no change in global right ventricular systolic function but a high basal RV systolic function decreased after closure. Some patients had impaired diastolic function before closure of defect, which reversed to normal within 6 months after closure. Diastolic dysfunction in older age-group may be a cause for long duration taken by right heart chambers to regress and deserves further investigation. © 2016, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Experimental Study on 340GHz Wave Material Penetration Attenuation Properties

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-01

wave penetrate materials, detailed are foam with dimension 52.6cm×61.6cm×0.4cm, paper dimension 52.6cm×61.6cm×0.4cm, wood board 52.6cm×66.0cm×0.42cm...paper box 52.6cm×61.6cm×0.01cm, and 8cm thickness sofa chair, 14cm human body chest, 21cm cement wall, are shown in Fig. 5. As the 0.34THz wave...insertion) comparison shown in Tab. 2, we get the foam has minimum penetration attenuation about 0.3dB, due to its low dielectric constant and tangent

Retinopathy in severe malaria in Ghanaian children--overlap between fundus changes in cerebral and non-cerebral malaria.

PubMed

Essuman, Vera A; Ntim-Amponsah, Christine T; Astrup, Birgitte S; Adjei, George O; Kurtzhals, Jorgen A L; Ndanu, Thomas A; Goka, Bamenla

2010-08-12

In malaria-endemic areas, reliably establishing parasitaemia for diagnosis of malaria can be difficult. A retinopathy with some features unique to severe malaria with a predictive value on prognosis, has been described. Detection of this retinopathy could be a useful diagnostic tool. This study was designed to determine the diagnostic usefulness of retinopathy on ophthalmoscopy in severe malaria syndromes: Cerebral malaria (CM) and non-cerebral severe malaria (non-CM), i.e. malaria with respiratory distress (RD) and malaria with severe anaemia (SA), in Ghanaian children. Secondly, to determine any association between retinopathy and the occurrence of convulsions in patients with CM. A cross-sectional study of consecutive patients on admission with severe malaria who were assessed for retinal signs, at the Department of Child Health, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, from July to August 2002 was done. All children had dilated-fundus examination by direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Fifty-eight children aged between six months and nine years were recruited. Twenty six(45%) had CM, 22 with convulsion; 26(45%) had SA and six(10%) had RD.Any retinopathy was seen in: CM 19(73%), SA 14(54%), RD 3(50.0%), CM with convulsion 15(68%) and CM without convulsion 4(100%). Comparison between CM versus non-CM groups showed a significant risk relationship between retinal whitening and CM(OR = 11.0, CI = 2.2- 56.1, p = 0.001). There was no significant association with papilloedema(OR = 0.9, CI = 0.3 - 3.0, p = 0.9), macular whitening(OR = 1.6, CI = 0.5 - 4.8, p = 0.4), macular haemorrhage(OR = 0.28, CI = 0.03 - 2.7 p = 0.2), retinal haemorrhage(OR = 1.9, CI = 0.6 - 5.6, p = 0.3), vessel abnormality(OR = 1.9, CI = 0.6 - 6.1, p = 0.3) and cotton wool spots(OR not calculated, p = 0.08).Tortuous and engorged retinal veins, not previously described as a feature of CM, was the most common vascular abnormality(15/58 = 26%) and was detected even in the absence of papilloedema. Retinal whitening, a sign suggestive of retinal ischaemia, was significantly more common in CM than in non-CM syndromes. However, the high prevalence of any retinopathy in the latter suggests that the brain and the retina may be suffering from ischaemia in both CM and non-CM.

High-Resolution Study of the First Stretching Overtones of H3Si79Br.

PubMed

Ceausu; Graner; Bürger; Mkadmi; Pracna; Lafferty

1998-11-01

The Fourier transform infrared spectrum of monoisotopic H3Si79Br (resolution 7.7 x 10(-3) cm-1) was studied from 4200 to 4520 cm-1, in the region of the first overtones of the Si-H stretching vibration. The investigation of the spectrum revealed the presence of two band systems, the first consisting of one parallel (nu0 = 4340.2002 cm-1) and one perpendicular (nu0 = 4342.1432 cm-1) strong component, and the second of one parallel (nu0 = 4405.789 cm-1) and one perpendicular (nu0 = 4416.233 cm-1) weak component. The rovibrational analysis shows strong local perturbations for both strong and weak systems. Seven hundred eighty-one nonzero-weighted transitions belonging to the strong system [the (200) manifold in the local mode picture] were fitted to a simple model involving a perpendicular component interacting by a weak Coriolis resonance with a parallel component. The most severely perturbed transitions (whose ||obs-calc || values exceeded 3 x 10(-3) cm-1) were given zero weights. The standard deviations of the fit were 1.0 x 10(-3) and 0.69 x 10(-3) cm-1 for the parallel and the perpendicular components, respectively. The weak band system, severely perturbed by many "dark" perturbers, was fitted to a model involving one parallel and one perpendicular band, connected by a Coriolis-type resonance. The K" . DeltaK = +10 to +18 subbands of the perpendicular component, which showed very high observed - calculated values ( approximately 0.5 cm-1), were excluded from this calculation. The standard deviations of the fit were 11 x 10(-3) and 13 x 10(-3) cm-1 for the parallel and the perpendicular components, respectively. Copyright 1998 Academic Press.

Foliar application with nano-silicon reduced cadmium accumulation in grains by inhibiting cadmium translocation in rice plants.

PubMed

Chen, Rui; Zhang, Changbo; Zhao, Yanling; Huang, Yongchun; Liu, Zhongqi

2018-01-01

Nano-silicon (Si) may be more effective than regular fertilizers in protecting plants from cadmium (Cd) stress. A field experiment was conducted to study the effects of nano-Si on Cd accumulation in grains and other organs of rice plants (Oryza sativa L. cv. Xiangzaoxian 45) grown in Cd-contaminated farmland. Foliar application with 5~25 mM nano-Si at anthesis stage reduced Cd concentrations in grains and rachises at maturity stage by 31.6~64.9 and 36.1~60.8%, respectively. Meanwhile, nano-Si application significantly increased concentrations of potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) in grains and rachises, but imposed little effect on concentrations of calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) in them. Uppermost nodes under panicles displayed much higher Cd concentration (4.50~5.53 mg kg -1 ) than other aerial organs. After foliar application with nano-Si, translocation factors (TFs) of Cd ions from the uppermost nodes to rachises significantly declined, but TFs of K, Mg, and Fe from the uppermost nodes to rachises increased significantly. High dose of nano-Si (25 mM) was more effective than low dose of nano-Si in reducing TFs of Cd from roots to the uppermost nodes and from the uppermost nodes to rachises. These findings indicate that nano-Si supply reduces Cd accumulation in grains by inhibiting translocation of Cd and, meanwhile, promoting translocation of K, Mg, and Fe from the uppermost nodes to rachises in rice plants.

Simultaneous 13 cm/3 cm Single-pulse Observations of PSR B0329+54

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Zhen; Shen, Zhi-Qiang; Manchester, R. N.; Ng, C.-Y.; Weltevrede, P.; Wang, Hong-Guang; Wu, Xin-Ji; Yuan, Jian-Ping; Wu, Ya-Jun; Zhao, Rong-Bing; Liu, Qing-Hui; Zhao, Ru-Shuang; Liu, Jie

2018-03-01

We have investigated the mode changing properties of PSR B0329+54 using 31 epochs of simultaneous 13 cm/3 cm single-pulse observations obtained with the Shanghai Tian Ma 65 m telescope. The pulsar was found in the abnormal emission mode 17 times, accounting for ∼13% of the 41.6 hr total observation time. Single-pulse analyses indicate that mode changes took place simultaneously at 13 cm/3 cm within a few rotational periods. We detected occasional bright and narrow pulses whose peak flux densities were 10 times higher than that of the integrated profile in both bands. At 3 cm, about 0.66% and 0.27% of single pulses were bright in the normal mode and abnormal mode, respectively, but at 13 cm the occurrence rate was only about 0.007%. We divided the pulsar radiation window into three components (C1, C2, and C3) corresponding to the main peaks of the integrated profile. The bright pulses preferentially occurred at pulse phases corresponding to the peaks of C2 and C3. Fluctuation spectra showed that C2 had excess red noise in the normal mode, but broad quasi-periodic features with central frequencies around 0.12 cycles/period in the abnormal mode. At 3 cm, C3 had a stronger quasi-periodic modulation centered around 0.06 cycles/period in the abnormal mode. Although there were some asymmetries in the two-dimensional fluctuation spectra, we found no clear evidence for systematic subpulse drifting. Consistent with previous low-frequency observations, we found a very low nulling probability for B0329+54, with upper limits of 0.13% and 1.68% at 13 cm/3 cm, respectively.

Agreement Among RTOG Sarcoma Radiation Oncologists in Contouring Suspicious Peritumoral Edema for Preoperative Radiation Therapy of Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Extremity

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

Bahig, Houda; Roberge, David, E-mail: david.roberge.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca; Bosch, Walter

Purpose: Peritumoral edema may harbor sarcoma cells. The extent of suspicious edema (SE) included in the treatment volume is subject to clinical judgment, balancing the risk of missing tumor cells with excess toxicity. Our goal was to determine variability in SE delineation by sarcoma radiation oncologists (RO). Methods and Materials: Twelve expert ROs were provided with T1 gadolinium and T2-weighted MR images of 10 patients with high-grade extremity soft-tissue sarcoma. Gross tumor volume, clinical target volume (CTV)3cm (3 cm longitudinal and 1.5 cm radial margin), and CTV2cm (2 cm longitudinal and 1 cm radial margin) were contoured by a singlemore » observer. Suspicious peritumoral edema, defined as abnormal signal on T2 images, was independently delineated by all 12 ROs. Contouring agreement was analyzed using the simultaneous truth and performance level estimation (STAPLE) algorithm and kappa statistics. Results: The mean volumes of GTV, CTV2cm, and CTV3cm were, respectively, 130 cm{sup 3} (7-413 cm{sup 3}), 280 cm{sup 3} and 360 cm{sup 3}. The mean consensus volume computed using the STAPLE algorithm at 95% confidence interval was 188 cm{sup 3} (24-565 cm{sup 3}) with a substantial overall agreement corrected for chance (mean kappa = 0.71; range: 0.32-0.87). The minimum, maximum, and mean volume of SE (excluding the GTV) were 4, 182, and 58 cm{sup 3} (representing a median of 29% of the GTV volume). The median volume of SE not included in the CTV2cm and in the CTV3cm was 5 and 0.3 cm{sup 3}, respectively. There were 3 large tumors with >30 cm{sup 3} of SE not included in the CTV3cm volume. Conclusion: Despite the fact that SE would empirically seem to be a more subjective volume, a substantial or near-perfect interobserver agreement was observed in SE delineation in most cases with high-grade soft-tissue sarcomas of the extremity. A median of 97% of the consensus SE is within the CTV2cm (99.8% within the CTV3cm). In a minority of cases, however, significant expansion of the CTVs is required to cover SE.« less

Agreement among RTOG sarcoma radiation oncologists in contouring suspicious peritumoral edema for preoperative radiation therapy of soft tissue sarcoma of the extremity.

PubMed

Bahig, Houda; Roberge, David; Bosch, Walter; Levin, William; Petersen, Ivy; Haddock, Michael; Freeman, Carolyn; Delaney, Thomas F; Abrams, Ross A; Indelicato, Danny J; Baldini, Elizabeth H; Hitchcock, Ying; Kirsch, David G; Kozak, Kevin R; Wolfson, Aaron; Wang, Dian

2013-06-01

Peritumoral edema may harbor sarcoma cells. The extent of suspicious edema (SE) included in the treatment volume is subject to clinical judgment, balancing the risk of missing tumor cells with excess toxicity. Our goal was to determine variability in SE delineation by sarcoma radiation oncologists (RO). Twelve expert ROs were provided with T1 gadolinium and T2-weighted MR images of 10 patients with high-grade extremity soft-tissue sarcoma. Gross tumor volume, clinical target volume (CTV)3cm (3 cm longitudinal and 1.5 cm radial margin), and CTV2cm (2 cm longitudinal and 1 cm radial margin) were contoured by a single observer. Suspicious peritumoral edema, defined as abnormal signal on T2 images, was independently delineated by all 12 ROs. Contouring agreement was analyzed using the simultaneous truth and performance level estimation (STAPLE) algorithm and kappa statistics. The mean volumes of GTV, CTV2cm, and CTV3cm were, respectively, 130 cm(3) (7-413 cm(3)), 280 cm(3) and 360 cm(3). The mean consensus volume computed using the STAPLE algorithm at 95% confidence interval was 188 cm(3) (24-565 cm(3)) with a substantial overall agreement corrected for chance (mean kappa = 0.71; range: 0.32-0.87). The minimum, maximum, and mean volume of SE (excluding the GTV) were 4, 182, and 58 cm(3) (representing a median of 29% of the GTV volume). The median volume of SE not included in the CTV2cm and in the CTV3cm was 5 and 0.3 cm(3), respectively. There were 3 large tumors with >30 cm(3) of SE not included in the CTV3cm volume. Despite the fact that SE would empirically seem to be a more subjective volume, a substantial or near-perfect interobserver agreement was observed in SE delineation in most cases with high-grade soft-tissue sarcomas of the extremity. A median of 97% of the consensus SE is within the CTV2cm (99.8% within the CTV3cm). In a minority of cases, however, significant expansion of the CTVs is required to cover SE. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thermal electron attachment to chlorinated alkenes in the gas phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wnorowski, K.; Wnorowska, J.; Michalczuk, B.; Jówko, A.; Barszczewska, W.

2017-01-01

This paper reports the measurements of the rate coefficients and the activation energies of the electron capture processes with various chlorinated alkenes. The electron attachment processes in the mixtures of chlorinated alkenes with carbon dioxide have been investigated using a Pulsed Townsend technique. This study has been performed in the temperature range (298-378) K. The obtained rate coefficients more or less depended on temperature in accordance to Arrhenius equation. The activation energies (Ea's) were determined from the fit to the experimental data points with function ln(k) = ln(A) - Ea/kBT. The rate coefficients at 298 K were equal to 1.0 × 10-10 cm3 s-1, 2.2 × 10-11 cm3 s-1, 1.6 × 10-9 cm3 s-1, 4.4 × 10-8 cm3 s-1, 2.9 × 10-12 cm3 s-1 and 7.3 × 10-12 cm3 s-1 and activation energies were: 0.27 eV, 0.26 eV, 0.25 eV, 0.21 eV, 0.55 eV and 0.42 eV, for trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, cis-1,2-dichloroethylene, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, 2-chloropropene, 3-chloropropene respectively.

The Impact of Adolescent Obesity on Adult Height.

PubMed

Brener, Avivit; Bello, Rachel; Lebenthal, Yael; Yackobovitch-Gavan, Michal; Phillip, Moshe; Shalitin, Shlomit

2017-01-01

Childhood obesity is a major health concern. Excess adiposity during childhood affects growth and puberty. Our aim was to assess whether genetic adult height is compromised in adolescents with obesity. In a retrospective study of 190 obese patients followed at our Pediatric Endocrinology Institute, adult height and delta height (the difference between adult height and mid-parental height) were compared to those of 150 healthy age-matched normal-weight controls. Review of medical files yielded the relevant clinical and anthropometric data of patients, controls, and parents. Of the 190 obese adolescents, 150 were morbidly obese. The median adult height of morbidly obese males was 174.3 cm, of obese males 174 cm, and of normal-weight males 176 cm (p = 0.025). Delta height of morbidly obese males was -0.5 cm, of obese males -0.8 cm, and of normal-weight males, 3 cm (p < 0.0001). The median adult height of morbidly obese females was 161.3 cm, of obese females 162.8 cm, and of normal-weight females 162 cm (p = 0.37). Delta height of morbidly obese females was -1.85 cm, of obese females -0.95 cm, and of normal-weight females 0.7 cm (p = 0.019). Impairment of potential genetic height was not associated with obesity-related comorbidities. Adolescents with obesity showed impairment of potential genetic adult height as compared to that of normal-weight subjects. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Crustal and uppermost mantle structure in the Middle East: assessing constraints provided by jointly modelling Ps and Sp receiver functions and Rayleigh wave group velocity dispersion curves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agrawal, Mohit; Pulliam, Jay; Sen, Mrinal K.; Dutta, Utpal; Pasyanos, Michael E.; Mellors, Robert

2015-05-01

Seismic velocity models are found, along with uncertainty estimates, for 11 sites in the Middle East by jointly modelling Ps and Sp receiver functions and surface (Rayleigh) wave group velocity dispersion. The approach performs a search for models that satisfy goodness-of-fit criteria guided by a variant of simulated annealing and uses statistical tools to assess these products of searches. These tools, a parameter correlation matrix and marginal posterior probability density (PPD) function, allow us to evaluate quantitatively the constraints that each data type imposes on model parameters and to identify portions of each model that are well-constrained relative to other portions. This joint modelling technique, which we call `multi-objective optimization for seismology', does not require a good starting solution, although such a model can be incorporated easily, if available, and can reduce the computation time significantly. Applying the process described above to broadband seismic data reveals that crustal thickness varies from 15 km beneath Djibouti (station ATD) to 45 km beneath Saudi Arabia (station RAYN). A pronounced low velocity zone for both Vp and Vs is present at a depth of ˜12 km beneath station KIV located in northern part of greater Caucasus, which may be due to the presence of a relatively young volcano. Similarly, we also noticed a 6-km-thick low velocity zone for Vp beginning at 20 km depth beneath seismic station AGIN, on the Anatolian plateau, while positive velocity gradients prevail elsewhere in eastern Turkey. Beneath station CSS, located in Cyprus, an anomalously slow layer is found in the uppermost mantle, which may indicate the presence of altered lithospheric material. Crustal P- and S-wave velocities beneath station D2, located in the northeastern portion of central Zagros, range between 5.2-6.2 and 3.2-3.8 km s-1, respectively. In Oman, we find a Moho depth of 34.0 ± 1.0 km and 25.0 ± 1.0 to 30.0 ± 1.0 km beneath stations S02 and S04, respectively.

3-D structure of the crust and uppermost mantle at the junction between the Southeastern Alps and External Dinarides from ambient noise tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guidarelli, Mariangela; Aoudia, Abdelkrim; Costa, Giovanni

2017-12-01

We use ambient noise tomography to investigate the crust and the uppermost mantle structure beneath the junction between the Southern Alps, the Dinarides and the Po Plain. We obtained Rayleigh wave empirical Green's functions from cross-correlation of vertical component seismic recordings for three years (2010-2012) using stations from networks in Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Croatia, Serbia and Switzerland. We measure group and phase velocity dispersion curves from the reconstructed Rayleigh waves in the period range 5-30 and 8-37 s, respectively, and we invert the surface wave velocities for tomographic images on a grid of 0.1° × 0.1°. After the tomography, the group velocities are then inverted to compute the 3-D shear wave velocity model of the crust and the upper mantle beneath the region. Our shear wave velocity model provides the 3-D image of the structure in the region between Northeastern Italy, Slovenia and Austria. The velocity variations at shallow depths correlate with known geological and tectonic domains. We find low velocities below the Po Plain, the northern tip of the Adriatic and the Pannonian Basin, whereas higher velocities characterize the Alpine chain. The vertical cross-sections reveal a clear northward increase of the crustal thickness with a sharp northward dipping of the Moho that coincides at the surface with the leading edge of the Alpine thrust front adjacent to the Friuli Plain in Northeastern Italy. This geometry of the Moho mimics fairly well the shallow north dipping geometry of the decollement inferred from permanent GPS velocity field where high interseismic coupling is reported. From the northern Adriatic domain up to the Idrija right lateral strike-slip fault system beneath Western Slovenia, the crustal thickness is more uniform. Right across Idrija fault, to the northeast, and along its strike, we report a clear change of the physical properties of the crust up to the uppermost mantle as reflected by the lateral distribution of both group and phase velocity anomalies at relevant periods. Idrija fault is therefore interpreted as a subvertical fault sampling the whole crust. Our 3-D velocity model favours crustal thickening with Adria underthrusting the Alps at a shallow angle north of the Friuli Plain where much of the convergence is absorbed and where the destructive 1976 Ms 6.5 thrust Friuli earthquake sequence took place. In Western Slovenia, the deformation is accommodated by strike-slip motion along the Idrija strike-slip fault system where the destructive 1511 Mw 6.9 right lateral strike-slip event occurred.

Effect of Product Dimensions and Surface Browning Method on Salmonella Contamination in Frozen, Surface-Browned, Breaded Chicken Products Treated with Antimicrobials.

PubMed

Moschonas, Galatios; Geornaras, Ifigenia; Stopforth, Jarret D; Woerner, Dale R; Belk, Keith E; Smith, Gary C; Sofos, John N

2015-12-01

Not-ready-to-eat breaded chicken products formulated with antimicrobial ingredients were tested for the effect of sample dimensions, surface browning method and final internal sample temperature on inoculated Salmonella populations. Fresh chicken breast meat portions (5 × 5 × 5 cm), inoculated with Salmonella (7-strain mixture; 5 log CFU/g), were mixed with (5% v/w total moisture enhancement) (i) distilled water (control), (ii) caprylic acid (CAA; 0.0625%) and carvacrol (CAR; 0.075%), (iii) CAA (0.25%) and ε-polylysine (POL; 0.5%), (iv) CAR (0.15%) and POL (0.5%), or (v) CAA (0.0625%), CAR (0.075%) and POL (0.5%). Sodium chloride (1.2%) and sodium tripolyphosphate (0.3%) were added to all treatments. The mixtures were then ground and formed into 9 × 5 × 3 cm (150 g) or 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm (50 g) portions. The products were breaded, browned in (i) an oven (208 °C, 15 min) or (ii) deep fryer (190 °C, 15 s), packaged, and stored at -20 °C (8 d). Overall, maximum internal temperatures of 62.4 ± 4.0 °C (9 × 2.5 × 2 cm) and 46.0 ± 3.0 °C (9 × 5 × 3 cm) were reached in oven-browned samples, and 35.0 ± 1.1 °C (9 × 2.5 × 2 cm) and 31.7 ± 2.6 °C (9 × 5 × 3 cm) in fryer-browned samples. Irrespective of formulation treatment, total (after frozen storage) reductions of Salmonella were greater (P < 0.05) for 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm oven-browned samples (3.8 to at least 4.6 log CFU/g) than for 9 × 5 × 3 cm oven-browned samples (0.7 to 2.5 log CFU/g). Product dimensions did not (P ≥ 0.05) affect Salmonella reductions (0.6 to 2.8 log CFU/g) in fryer-browned samples. All antimicrobial treatments reduced Salmonella to undetectable levels (<0.3 log CFU/g) in oven-browned 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm samples. Overall, the data may be useful for the selection of antimicrobials, product dimensions, and surface browning methods for reducing Salmonella contamination. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

Cone Beam CT Imaging Analysis of Interfractional Variations in Bladder Volume and Position During Radiotherapy for Bladder Cancer

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

Yee, Don, E-mail: dony@ualberta.c; Parliament, Matthew; Rathee, Satyapal

2010-03-15

Purpose: To quantify daily bladder size and position variations during bladder cancer radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: Ten bladder cancer patients underwent daily cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging of the bladder during radiotherapy. Bladder and planning target volumes (bladder/PTV) from CBCT and planning CT scans were compared with respect to bladder center-of-mass shifts in the x (lateral), y (anterior-posterior), and z (superior-inferior) coordinates, bladder/PTV size, bladder/PTV margin positions, overlapping areas, and mutually exclusive regions. Results: A total of 262 CBCT images were obtained from 10 bladder cancer patients. Bladder center of mass shifted most in the y coordinate (mean, -0.32 cm).more » The anterior bladder wall shifted the most (mean, -0.58 cm). Mean ratios of CBCT-derived bladder and PTV volumes to planning CT-derived counterparts were 0.83 and 0.88. The mean CBCT-derived bladder volume (+- standard deviation [SD]) outside the planning CT counterpart was 29.24 cm{sup 3} (SD, 29.71 cm{sup 3}). The mean planning CT-derived bladder volume outside the CBCT counterpart was 47.74 cm{sup 3} (SD, 21.64 cm{sup 3}). The mean CBCT PTV outside the planning CT-derived PTV was 47.35 cm{sup 3} (SD, 36.51 cm{sup 3}). The mean planning CT-derived PTV outside the CBCT-derived PTV was 93.16 cm{sup 3} (SD, 50.21). The mean CBCT-derived bladder volume outside the planning PTV was 2.41 cm{sup 3} (SD, 3.97 cm{sup 3}). CBCT bladder/ PTV volumes significantly differed from planning CT counterparts (p = 0.047). Conclusions: Significant variations in bladder and PTV volume and position occurred in patients in this trial.« less

Eight good reasons why the uppermost mantle could be magnetic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferre, E. C.; Friedman, S. A.; Martin Hernandez, F.; Till, J. L.; Ionov, D. A.; Conder, J. A.

2012-12-01

The launch of Magsat in 1979 prompted a broad magnetic investigation of mantle xenoliths (Wasilewski et al., 1979). The study concluded that no magnetic remanence existed in the uppermost mantle and that even if present, such sources would be at temperatures too high to contribute to long wavelength magnetic anomalies (LWMA). However, new collections of unaltered mantle xenoliths from four different tectonic settings, along with updated views on the sources of LWMA and modern petrologic constraints on fO2 in the mantle indicate that the uppermost mantle could, in certain cases, contain ferromagnetic minerals. 1. The analysis of some LWMA over areas such as, for example, Bangui in the Central African Craton, the Cascadia subduction zone and serpentinized oceanic lithosphere suggest magnetic sources in the uppermost mantle. 2. The most common ferromagnetic phase in the uppermost mantle is pure magnetite, which has a pressure-corrected Curie temperature at 10 kbars of 600C instead of the generally used value of 580C. Assuming 30 km-thick continental crust, and crustal and mantle geotherms of 15C/km and 5C/km, respectively, the 600C Curie temperature implies the existence of a 30 km-thick layer of mantle rocks, whose remanent and induced magnetizations could contribute to LWMA. The thickness of this layer decreases to about 15 km for a 35 km-thick crust. 3. The uppermost mantle is cooler than 600C in some tectonic settings, including Archean and Proterozoic shields (>350C), subduction zones (>300C) and old oceanic basins (>250C). 4. Recently investigated sets of unaltered mantle xenoliths contain pure SD and PSD magnetite inclusions exsolved in olivine and pyroxene. The fact that these magnetite grains are not associated with any alteration phases, such as serpentine, and exhibit a subhedral shape, demonstrates that they formed in equilibrium with the host silicate. 5. The ascent of mantle xenoliths in volcanic conduits through cratons and subduction zones occurs in less than a day. Numerical models of Fe diffusion in silicates suggest that it is unlikely for exsolved magnetite grains to reach greater than superparamagnetic sizes within this time frame. 6. Demagnetization of natural remanent magnetization (NRM) of unaltered mantle xenoliths unambiguously indicates only a single component. The demagnetization of NRM spectra resembles that of laboratory-imparted anhysteretic remanent magnetizations, suggesting that the NRM is of thermal origin, and most likely acquired upon cooling at the Earth's surface. Yet mantle peridotites had to be magnetized before extraction from the mantle source. 7. Modern experimental data suggest that the wüstite-magnetite oxygen buffer and the fayalite-magnetite-quartz oxygen buffer extend several tens of km at depth within the uppermost mantle. Modern petrologic models also indicate that fO2 in the uppermost mantle varies significantly with tectonic setting. 8. The magnetic properties of mantle xenoliths vary consistently across island arc, craton, hot spot and mantle plume regions. The intensity of their NRMs appear to be influenced by their tectonic setting, in accordance with petrologic models. In conclusion, the model of a uniformaly non-magnetic mantle no longer agrees with multiple lines of evidence and should be revisited, especially because the most strongly magnetic xenoliths originate from cold geotherm settings.

Transgressive reef sequences of the Devonian Devils Gate Limestone, Red Hill, Nevada

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

Shapiro, R.; Dehler, C.; Flynn, J.

The Devils Gate Limestone at Red Hill, Simpson Park Range, Eureka Co., Nevada is composed of several conformable transgressive sequences cropping out in a series of step-like cliffs 1--5 m high. The general sequence is as follows: (1) a 1--4 m thick in situ boundstone dominated by large, period rugosans, domical and stratiform stromatoporids and rare, 1--3 cm diameter oncolites. Most of the boundstone is composed of small, cylindrical fossils. Petrographic observation revealed them to be mostly Amphipora and Cladopora. The upper portions of these units are packstones composed of Amphipora/Cladopora and, to a lesser degree, small favositids, round stromatoporoidsmore » (3--4 cm diameter), and rip-up clasts. (2) These beds grade upward into a thinly laminated and/or cross-bedded unfossiliferous mudstone. (3) Stratigraphically above the mudstone or in contact with the packstone, is a cross-bedded and/or bioturbated wackestone containing fossils no greater than 2 mm. In thin section, the mottled reddish-grey wackestone is pelletal, with rare lenses of small crinoid columnals. Disarticulated brachiopod shells of low diversity are found near the tops of some of these layers. Community dominance in the reefal units alternates between Amphipora/Cladopora, colonial rugose, and stromatoporoids. Oncolite mounds are common in the uppermost unit. The typical reef succession consists of domical and digitate stromatoporoids growing on the upper surfaces of in place or disturbed, large rugosans, though the reverse has been noted. Tabulate corals encrusted by stromatoporoids are often found in the packstone. It is important to note that often these successions' can be attributed to juxtaposition along styolites.« less

Behavior of MORB magmas at uppermost mantle beneath a fast-spreading axis: an example from Wadi Fizh of the northern Oman ophiolite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akizawa, Norikatsu; Arai, Shoji; Tamura, Akihiro

2012-10-01

Relationships of lithologies in uppermost mantle section of Oman ophiolite are highly complicated, harzburgites especially being closely associated with dunites, wehrlites, and gabbros. The petrology and geochemistry of the uppermost mantle section provide constrains on how MORB (mid-ocean ridge basalt) magmas migrate from the mantle to crust. We conducted detailed sampling at the uppermost mantle section of the northern Oman ophiolite (along Wadi Fizh), and it provides us with centimeter-scale lithological and mineral chemical heterogeneity. In particular, we found peculiar plagioclase-free harzburgites that have not been recorded from the current ocean floor, which contain high-Mg# [Mg/(Mg + Fe2+) atomic ratio] clinopyroxenes that are almost in equilibrium (saturated) with MORB in terms of REE concentrations. They are from the uppermost mantle section underlying the wehrlite-dunite layer (=Moho transition zone; MTZ) just beneath the layered gabbro. MORBs cannot be in equilibrium with harzburgites; however, we call the peculiar harzburgites as "MORB-saturated harzburgite" for simplicity in this paper. The MORB-saturated harzburgites exhibit slightly enriched mineralogy (e.g., spinels with higher Ti and ferric iron, and clinopyroxenes with higher Ti and Na) and contain slightly but clearly more abundant modal clinopyroxene (up to 3.5 vol.%) than ordinary Oman depleted harzburgites (less than 1 vol.% clinopyroxene), which are similar to abyssal harzburgites. Gabbro-clinopyroxenite bands, which were melt lenses beneath the ridge axis, are dominant around the MTZ. Detailed sampling around the gabbro-clinopyroxenite bands revealed that the MORB-saturated harzburgites appear around the bands. The interaction between a melt that was MORB-like and an ordinary harzburgite induced incongruent melting of orthopyroxenes in harzburgites, and the melt chromatographically intruded into the wall harzburgite and was modified to coexist with olivine and two pyroxenes at low melt/harzburgite ratios. The modified melt left clinopyroxene (not clinopyroxene + plagioclase as in plagioclase-impregnated abyssal harzburgite) to form the MORB-saturated harzburgites in the vicinity (harzburgite) of the fracture, which are left as gabbro-clinopyroxenite bands. This local modification mimics the whole lithological and chemical variation of the MTZ and makes chemical variation of MORB suite at fast-spreading ridge.

Left atrial appendage dimensions predict the risk of stroke/TIA in patients with atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Beinart, Roy; Heist, E Kevin; Newell, John B; Holmvang, Godtfred; Ruskin, Jeremy N; Mansour, Moussa

2011-01-01

Risk of Stroke/TIA in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. Most strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) arise from thrombus formation in left atrial appendage (LAA). Our aim was to identify LAA features associated with a higher stroke risk in patients with AF using magnetic resonance imaging and angiography (MRI/MRA). The study included 144 patients with nonvalvular AF who were not receiving warfarin and who underwent MRI/MRA prior to catheter ablation for AF. LAA volume, LAA depth, short and long axes of LAA neck, and numbers of lobes were measured. Of the 144 patients, 18 had a prior stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) (13 and 5, respectively). Compared with patients who had no history of stroke/TIA, these patients were older, had higher prevalence of hypertension and hyperlipidemia and had higher LAA volume (22.9 ± 9.6 cm(3) vs. 14.5 ± 7.1 cm(3) , P < 0.001). Their LAA depth (3.76 ± 0.9 cm vs. 3.21 ± 0.8 cm, P = 0.006) and the long and short axes of the LAA neck (3.12 ± 0.7 cm vs. 2.08 ± 0.7 cm, P < 0.001; 2.06 ± 0.5 cm vs. 1.37 ± 0.4 cm, P < 0.001, respectively) were larger. Using stepwise logistic regression model, the only statistically significant multivariable predictors of events were age (OR = 1.21 per year, 95% CI 1.06-1.38, P = 0.004), aspirin use (OR = 0.039, 95% CI 0.005-0.28, P = 0.001), and LAA neck dimensions (short axis × long axis) (OR = 3.59 per cm(2) , 95% CI 1.93-6.69, P < 0.001). LAA dimensions predict strokes/TIAs in patients with AF. LAA assessment by MRI/MRA can potentially be used as an adjunctive tool for risk stratification for embolic events in AF patients. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Quantitative Computed Tomography Ventriculography for Assessment and Monitoring of Hydrocephalus: A Pilot Study and Description of Method in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

PubMed

Multani, Jasjit Singh; Oermann, Eric Karl; Titano, Joseph; Mascitelli, Justin; Nicol, Kelly; Feng, Rui; Skovrlj, Branko; Pain, Margaret; Mocco, J D; Bederson, Joshua B; Costa, Anthony; Shrivastava, Raj

2017-08-01

There is no facile quantitative method for monitoring hydrocephalus (HCP). We propose quantitative computed tomography (CT) ventriculography (qCTV) as a novel computer vision tool for empirically assessing HCP in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Twenty patients with SAH who were evaluated for ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement were selected for inclusion. Ten patients with normal head computed tomography (CTH) findings were analyzed as negative controls. CTH scans were segmented both manually and automatically (by qCTV) to generate measures of ventricular volume. The median manually calculated ventricular volume was 36.1 cm 3 (interquartile range [IQR], 30-115 cm 3 ), which was similar to the median qCTV measured volume of 37.5 cm 3 (IQR, 32-118 cm 3 ) (P = 0.796). Patients undergoing VPS placement demonstrated an increase in median ventricular volume on qCTV from 21 cm 3 to 40 cm 3 on day T-2 and to 51 cm 3 by day 0, a change of 144%. This is in contrast to patients who did not require shunting, in whom median ventricular volume decreased from 16 cm 3 to 14 cm 3 on day T-2 and to 13 cm 3 by day 0, with an average overall volume decrease 19% (P = 0.001). The average change in ventricular volume predicted which patients would require VPS placement, successfully identifying 7 of 10 patients (P = 0.004). Using an optimized cutoff of a change in ventricular volume of 2.5 cm 3 identified all patients who went on to require VPS placement (10 of 10; P = 0.011). qCTV is a reliable means of quantifying ventricular volume and hydrocephalus. This technique offers a new tool for monitoring neurosurgical patients for hydrocephalus, and may be beneficial for use in future research studies, as well as in the routine care of patients with hydrocephalus. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computer-aided design evaluation of harvestable mandibular bone volume: a clinical and tomographic human study.

PubMed

Verdugo, Fernando; Simonian, Krikor; Raffaelli, Luca; D'Addona, Antonio

2014-06-01

To evaluate and compare the volume of bone graft material that can be safely harvested from the mandibular symphysis and rami using a computer-aided design (CAD) software program. Preoperative computerized tomography scans from 40 patients undergoing bone augmentation procedures were analyzed. Symphysis and rami cross sections were mapped using a CAD software program (AutoCAD(®), Autodesk, Inc., San Rafael, CA, USA) to evaluate the bone volume that can be safely harvested. CAD calculations were contrasted to intrasurgical measurements in a subgroup of 20 individuals. CAD calculations yielded a safe harvestable osseous volume of 1.44 cm(3) ± 0.49 for the symphysis and 0.82 cm(3) ± 0.21 for each ramus (p < .0001, confidence interval [CI] 95%: 0.47-0.78). These measurements were significantly lower (p < .0001) than the bone volumes harvested intrasurgically for both symphysis and ramus, respectively (2.40 cm(3) ± 0.50 vs. 2.65 cm(3) ± 0.45). CAD calculations of harvestable symphysis and ramus bone translated into an average of 2.40 cm(3) ± 0.50 (range: 1.80-3.10 cm(3)) and 2.65 cm(3) ± 0.45 (range: 1.90-3.50) of particulate bone graft intrasurgically, respectively. Ramus cortical was significantly thicker than the symphysis cortical, 2.9 ± 0.4 mm versus 2.19 mm ± 0.4 mm (p < .0001, CI 95%: 0.45-1.03). The symphysis and rami are good harvesting sources to obtain dense corticocancellous bone. The significant volumetric CAD differences between the symphysis and ramus seem to balance out intrasurgically and may be due to the greater cortical bone volume at the ramus area. It is plausible to harvest an average of 7.70 cm(3) from the symphysis and rami alone. The use of a CAD software program can enhance surgical treatment planning prior to bone transplantation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

SU-C-213-02: Characterizing 3D Printing in the Fabrication of Variable Density Phantoms

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

Madamesila, J; McGeachy, P; Villarreal-Barajas, J

Purpose: In this work, we present characterization, process flow, quality control and application of 3D fabricated low density phantoms for radiotherapy quality assurance. Methods: A Rostock delta 3D printer using polystyrene filament of diameter 1.75 mm was used to print geometric volumes of 2×2×1 cm{sup 3} of varying densities. The variable densities of 0.1 to 0.75 g/cm {sup 3} were created by modulating the infill. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed to establish an infill-density calibration curve as well as characterize the quality of the print such as uniformity and the infill pattern. The time required to print thesemore » volumes was also recorded. Using the calibration, two low density cones (0.19, 0.52 g/cm{sup 3}) were printed and benchmarked against commercially available phantoms. The dosimetric validation of the low density scaling of Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm (AAA) was performed by using a 0.5 g/cm{sup 3} slab of 10×10×2.4 cm{sup 3} with EBT3 GafChromic film. The gamma analysis at 3%/3mm criteria were compared for the measured and computed dose planes. Results: Analysis of the volume of air pockets in the infill resulted in a reasonable uniformity for densities 0.4 to 0.75 g/cm{sup 3}. Printed phantoms with densities below 0.4 g/cm{sup 3} exhibited a higher ratio of air to polystyrene resulting in large non-uniformity. Compared to the commercial inserts, good agreement was observed only for the printed 0.52 g/cm{sup 3} cone. Dosimetric comparison for a printed low density volume placed in-between layers of solid water resulted in >95% gamma agreement between AAA calculated dose planes and measured EBT3 films for a 6MV 5×5 cm{sup 2} clinical beam. The comparison showed disagreement in the penumbra region. Conclusion: In conclusion, 3D printing technology opens the door to desktop fabrication of variable density phantoms at economical prices in an efficient manner for the quality assurance needs of a small clinic.« less

Globally Convergent Methods for Solving Coefficient Inverse Problems for Time Dependent Maxwell Equations

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-19

geode (heterogeneous): Rock two spherical layers and air inside 13 Blind A piece of rock Rock 14 Blind A plastic bottle filled with coffee grounds... Coffee grounds 15 Blind A ceramic mug Ceramic 16 Blind A cylinder and a block at 3 cm separation Metal/Metal 17 Blind An aluminum can and a block Metal...2.5 cm 1.0 1.52 1.31 (outer) (two layers) 1.25 (inner) 1.28 (average) 13 Rock 2.0 cm 2.3 cm 1.0 1.34 1.34 14 Coffee grounds 2.0 cm 2.5 cm 1.0 1.46

Vascular geometry of the extracranial carotid arteries: an analysis of length, diameter, and tortuosity.

PubMed

Choudhry, Farooq A; Grantham, John T; Rai, Ansaar T; Hogg, Jeffery P

2016-05-01

Stable access is essential for successful intracranial interventions. Quantifying variations in extracranial carotid arteries may help in the selection and development of access catheters. This study describes the vascular dimensions from the aortic arch to the skull base. CT angiography analysis was performed on 100 patients. The lengths, diameters, and tortuosity of the common carotid artery (CCA) and internal carotid artery (ICA) were measured from the aortic arch to the skull base. The mean±SD length of the carotid artery from the aortic arch to the skull base was 22.2±2.2 cm for the right side and 20.8±1.9 cm for the left side (p<0.0001). The length of the right CCA was 13.6±1.2 cm and the length of the left CCA was 12.4±1.4 cm (p<0.0001). The length of the right ICA was 8.6±1.4 cm compared with 8.4±1.4 cm for the left ICA (p=0.3). The ICA length in men and women was 8.9±1.3 cm and 8.2±1.3 cm, respectively (p=0.0001), and the CCA length in men and women was 13.6±1.5 cm and 12.3±1.6 cm, respectively (p<0.0001). The lengths of the CCA and ICA in patients aged ≥60 years were 13.3±1.7 cm and 8.9±1.5 cm, respectively compared with 12.8±1.7 cm and 8.2±1.1 cm, respectively, for patients aged <60 years (p=0.04 for CCA, p=0.0002 for ICA). Tortuosity of the CCA and ICA was 1.2±0.2 and 1.3±0.1, respectively, in patients aged ≥60 years compared with 1.1±0.1 for both the ICA and CCA in patients aged <60 years (p<0.0001 for both). There was a consistent ratio of CCA/ICA length of 1.6±0.3 on the right and 1.5±0.3 on the left (p<0.0001). The arterial diameters did not show any significant difference. The distance from the aortic arch to the skull base is longer on the right than on the left side. Both the CCA and ICA are longer in men and in patients aged ≥60 years. The tortuosity of both segments significantly increases with age. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Retinopathy in severe malaria in Ghanaian children - overlap between fundus changes in cerebral and non-cerebral malaria

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background In malaria-endemic areas, reliably establishing parasitaemia for diagnosis of malaria can be difficult. A retinopathy with some features unique to severe malaria with a predictive value on prognosis, has been described. Detection of this retinopathy could be a useful diagnostic tool. This study was designed to determine the diagnostic usefulness of retinopathy on ophthalmoscopy in severe malaria syndromes: Cerebral malaria (CM) and non-cerebral severe malaria (non-CM), i.e. malaria with respiratory distress (RD) and malaria with severe anaemia (SA), in Ghanaian children. Secondly, to determine any association between retinopathy and the occurrence of convulsions in patients with CM. Methods and subjects A cross-sectional study of consecutive patients on admission with severe malaria who were assessed for retinal signs, at the Department of Child Health, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, from July to August 2002 was done. All children had dilated-fundus examination by direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Results Fifty-eight children aged between six months and nine years were recruited. Twenty six(45%) had CM, 22 with convulsion; 26(45%) had SA and six(10%) had RD. Any retinopathy was seen in: CM 19(73%), SA 14(54%), RD 3(50.0%), CM with convulsion 15(68%) and CM without convulsion 4(100%). Comparison between CM versus non-CM groups showed a significant risk relationship between retinal whitening and CM(OR = 11.0, CI = 2.2- 56.1, p = 0.001). There was no significant association with papilloedema(OR = 0.9, CI = 0.3 - 3.0, p = 0.9), macular whitening(OR = 1.6, CI = 0.5 - 4.8, p = 0.4), macular haemorrhage(OR = 0.28, CI = 0.03 - 2.7 p = 0.2), retinal haemorrhage(OR = 1.9, CI = 0.6 - 5.6, p = 0.3), vessel abnormality(OR = 1.9, CI = 0.6 - 6.1, p = 0.3) and cotton wool spots(OR not calculated, p = 0.08). Tortuous and engorged retinal veins, not previously described as a feature of CM, was the most common vascular abnormality(15/58 = 26%) and was detected even in the absence of papilloedema. Conclusion Retinal whitening, a sign suggestive of retinal ischaemia, was significantly more common in CM than in non-CM syndromes. However, the high prevalence of any retinopathy in the latter suggests that the brain and the retina may be suffering from ischaemia in both CM and non-CM. PMID:20704742

Ichnofabrics and Facies in the Paleocene of Chicxulub: A Record of the Recovery of Life Post-Impact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whalen, M. T.; O'Malley, K.; Lowery, C. M.; Rodriguez-Tovar, F. J.; Gulick, S. P. S.; Morgan, J. V.

2017-12-01

IODP/ICDP Expedition 364 recovered 829 m of core at Site M0077 including 110 m of post-impact, (hemi)pelagic Paleogene sedimentary rocks overlying the Chicxulub impact crater peak ring formed from suevite, melt rock, and granitic basement. The transition between suevite and Paleocene limestone (Unit 1F) is a remarkable fining upward package of gravel to sand-sized suevite (Unit 2A) overlain by the laminated carbonate-rich Unit 1G that records deposition of fine-grained material post-impact and contains a mix of Late Cretaceous and earliest Danian taxa. This study concentrates on the overlying Unit 1F. The ichnofabric index (ii, 1-6 indicating no bioturbation to complete homogenization), provides a semiquantitative estimate of burrow density to help assess the return of life to the crater. Unit 1F is 10 m thick with a sharp contact at the base of a green claystone (ii 2) that overlies Unit 1G. It consists of cm-dm interbedded blue-gray marlstone (ii 2) grading upward into gray to blue-gray wacke/packstone (ii 3-5). Contacts between facies are mostly gradational due to burrowing. The upper 3 m of the unit is a yellow-brown burrowed packstone (ii 4) intercalated with gray marlstone (ii 2). The uppermost 7.5 cm is calcite cemented with 1 cm wide burrows (ii 3-4) and fine to coarse sand size clasts including foraminifera. The upper surface of the unit is a hardground with an 2 Myr unconformity overlain by Eocene rocks. The first well-defined burrows occur in the upper 30 cm of Unit 1G. Unequivocal burrows (ii 2) that disturb sedimentary facies occur in overlying Unit 1F with values of 3-5 recorded in the overlying 10 cm indicating significant disruption of primary sedimentary structures. The iis in Unit 1F vary between 2 and 5 with rare laminated intervals without bioturbation (ii 1). Values of ii correlate well with facies changes, i.e. marlstones display lower iis than more carbonate-rich facies, implying a depth and/or redox control on burrower distribution. The ii data indicate that burrowers were re-established in the crater before the end of deposition of Unit 1G. The lowest Danian zone Pα is documented in the lowermost part of Unit 1F. Trace makers were thus active by the earliest Danian with an increase in abundance and diversity during the lower Danian, indicating a rapid and continuous return of benthic life to the crater.

Collision induced broadening and shifting of the H and K lines of Ca+ at low temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xin; Zhang, Rui; Shen, Yong; Liu, Qu; Zou, Hongxin; Yan, Bing

2017-09-01

Multireference configuration interaction method was used to compute the potential energy curves of Λ-S states correlating with lowest three atomic limits in Ca+-He molecular collision system. The potential energy curves of nine Ω states were obtained with inclusion of spin-orbit coupling. And the electric dipole and quadrupole moment matrix elements between excited states and ground state were also computed. Furthermore, with aid of the Anderson-Talman theory we calculated the broadening and shifting coefficients for Ca+-He spectral lines in the low temperature regime. For H line, α = 0.303 × 10-20 cm-1/cm-3, β = -0.0527 × 10-20cm-1/cm-3; For K line, α = 0.233 × 10-20cm-1/cm-3, β = -0.0402 × 10-20cm-1/cm-3 These results are helpful to understand the collision effects induced by He atom in further spectra investigations of cold Ca+ ions.

Discovery of the Fe-analogue of akimotoite in the shocked Suizhou L6 chondrite

PubMed Central

Bindi, Luca; Chen, Ming; Xie, Xiande

2017-01-01

We report the first natural occurrence of the Fe-analogue of akimotoite, ilmenite-structured MgSiO3, a missing phase among the predicted high-pressure polymorphs of Fe-pyroxene, with the composition (Fe2+0.48Mg0.37Ca0.04Na0.04Mn2+0.03Al0.03Cr3+0.01)Σ=1.00Si1.00O3. The new mineral was approved by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA 2016-085) and named hemleyite in honour of Russell J. Hemley. It was discovered in an unmelted portion of the heavily shocked L6 Suizhou chondrite closely associated to olivine, clinoenstatite and Fe-bearing pyroxene with a composition nearly identical to that of hemleyite. We also report the first single-crystal X-ray diffraction study of a Si-bearing, ilmenite-structured phase. The fact that hemleyite formed in a meteorite exposed to high pressures (<20 GPa) and temperatures (<2000 °C) during impact-induced shocks indicates that it could play a crucial role at the bottom of the Earth’s mantle transition zone and within the uppermost lower mantle. PMID:28198399

Resistance of Multi-Wythe Insulted Masonry Walls Subjected to Impulse Loads. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

17 Fig. 3.5. Stress-strain behavior of Owens - Corning XEPS foam.......................................18 Fig. 3.6. Stress-strain behavior...Z-4 CM-Z-5 Fig. 3.5. Stress-strain behavior of Owens - Corning XEPS foam Strain (in/in) St re ss (p si ) 0 0.08 0.16 0.24 0.32 0.4 0.48 0.56 0.64...Specimen Section (in) (lb/ft3) (ksi) (psi) Owens - Corning CM-Z-3 2.50 dia x 2.0 1.507 1.31 32 Owens - Corning CM-Z-4 2.50 dia x 2.0 1.511 1.43 31 Owens

Comparison of Different Periodontal Healing of Critical Size Noncontained and Contained Intrabony Defects in Beagles

PubMed Central

Zang, Sheng-Qi; Kang, Shuai; Hu, Xin; Wang, Meng; Wang, Xin-Wen; Zhou, Tao; Wang, Qin-Tao

2017-01-01

Background: Regenerative techniques help promote the formation of new attachment and bone filling in periodontal defects. However, the dimensions of intraosseous defects are a key determinant of periodontal regeneration outcomes. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of use of anorganic bovine bone (ABB) graft in combination with collagen membrane (CM), to facilitate healing of noncontained (1-wall) and contained (3-wall) critical size periodontal defects. Methods: The study began on March 2013, and was completed on May 2014. One-wall (7 mm × 4 mm) and 3-wall (5 mm × 4 mm) intrabony periodontal defects were surgically created bilaterally in the mandibular third premolars and first molars in eight beagles. The defects were treated with ABB in combination with CM (ABB + CM group) or open flap debridement (OFD group). The animals were euthanized at 8-week postsurgery for histological analysis. Two independent Student's t-tests (1-wall [ABB + CM] vs. 1-wall [OFD] and 3-wall [ABB + CM] vs. 3-wall [OFD]) were used to assess between-group differences. Results: The mean new bone height in both 1- and 3-wall intrabony defects in the ABB + CM group was significantly greater than that in the OFD group (1-wall: 4.99 ± 0.70 mm vs. 3.01 ± 0.37 mm, P < 0.05; 3-wall: 3.11 ± 0.59 mm vs. 2.08 ± 0.24 mm, P < 0.05). The mean new cementum in 1-wall intrabony defects in the ABB + CM group was significantly greater than that in their counterparts in the OFD group (5.08 ± 0.68 mm vs. 1.16 ± 0.38 mm; P < 0.05). Likewise, only the 1-wall intrabony defect model showed a significant difference with respect to junctional epithelium between ABB + CM and OFD groups (0.67 ± 0.23 mm vs. 1.12 ± 0.28 mm, P < 0.05). Conclusions: One-wall intrabony defects treated with ABB and CM did not show less periodontal regeneration than that in 3-wall intrabony defect. The noncontained 1-wall intrabony defect might be a more discriminative defect model for further research into periodontal regeneration. PMID:28218223

[Comparison of anorectal pressure after procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids versus Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation for grade III hemorrhoids].

PubMed

Dong, Xiao-ni; Tang, Ying-chun

2013-12-01

To compare the long-term anorectal manometry of patients with grade III hemorrhoids treated by procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) or Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation (DGHAL). A total of 114 patients with grade III hemorrhoids in our department in 2010 were prospectively enrolled, and divided into PPH group (63 cases) and DGHAL group (51 cases) according to patient preference. Patients received anorectal pressure examination 2, 6, 12, 18 months after operation, including rectal resting pressure, anal resting pressure, maximal anal contractive pressure and length of high-pressure band. Anorectal manometries between two procedure groups were compared. In every time point of follow-up, as compared to PPH group, DGHAL group presented higher anal resting pressure[postoperative 2 months: (56.2±2.6) mmHg vs. (43.2±3.1) mmHg, postoperative 6 months: (55.2±2.1) mmHg vs. (45.1±2.5) mmHg, postoperative 12 months: (53.2±3.0) mmHg vs. (40.2±3.2) mmHg, postoperative 18 months: (55.3±2.6) mmHg vs. (43.2±2.5) mmHg, all P<0.01], and longer length of high-pressure band [postoperative 2 months: (3.45±0.14) cm vs. (2.95±0.22) cm, postoperative 6 months: (3.46±0.12) cm vs. (2.94±0.26) cm, postoperative 12 months: (3.45±0.12) cm vs. (3.01±0.21) cm, postoperative 18 months: (3.56±0.12) cm vs. (3.02±0.23) cm, all P<0.01]. While no significant differences of maximal anal contractive pressure and rectal resting pressure were found between the two groups. Both PPH and DGHAL are safe procedures and have similar efficacy in the treatment of grade III hemorrhoids, while DGHALpossesses better efficacy in the time of anal function recovery and the maintenance of anal function.

Growth Friendly Surgery and Serial Cast Correction in the Treatment of Early-onset Scoliosis for Patients With Prader-Willi Syndrome.

PubMed

Oore, Jonathan; Connell, Braydon; Yaszay, Burt; Samdani, Amer; Hilaire, Tricia St; Flynn, Tara; El-Hawary, Ron

2018-02-02

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) patients can present with scoliosis which can be treated with serial cast correction (SCC) or with growth friendly surgery (GFS). This study's purpose was to describe the results of SCC as well as GFS for PWS patients with early-onset scoliosis (EOS). PWS patients were identified from 2 international multicenter EOS databases. Scoliosis, kyphosis, spine height (T1-S1), right/left hemithoracic heights/widths (RHTH, LHTH, RHTW, LHTW) were measured pretreatment, postoperation, and at 2-year follow-up. Complications were recorded. Overall, 23 patients with 2-year follow-up were identified. Pretreatment; patients treated with SCC (n=10) had mean age of 1.8±0.6 years; body mass index (BMI), 16±1.5 kg/m; scoliosis, 45±18 degrees; kyphosis, 56±9 degrees; T1-S1, 22.4±2.4 cm; RHTH, 8.0±2.0 cm; LHTH, 8.5±1.7 cm; RHTW, 6.6±1.3 cm; and LHTW, 8.0±1.0 cm. Patients treated with GFS (n=13) had mean age of 5.8±2.6 years; BMI, 21±5.4 kg/m; scoliosis, 76±14 degrees; kyphosis, 59±25 degrees; T1-S1, 24.1±3.6 cm; RHTH, 10.0±1.6 cm; LHTH, 10.6±1.6 cm; RHTW, 9.4±2.5 cm; and LHTW, 8.1±2.8 cm. At 2-year follow-up, patients treated with SCC had mean scoliosis 37±11 degrees (18% correction, P=0.06); kyphosis, 42±6 degrees (NS); T1-S1, 26.4±2.1 cm (P<0.01); RHTH, 9.0±1.1 cm (13%; P=0.30); LHTH, 10.0±1.5 cm (18%, P<0.01); RHTW, 7.4±1.1 cm (12%, P<0.01); and LHTW, 8.0±1.0 cm (0%, P=0.34). At 2-year follow-up, patients treated with GFS had mean scoliosis 42±13 degrees (45% correction, P<0.000001); kyphosis, 53±13 degrees (10%, P=0.19); T1-S1, 31.5±5.4 cm (P<0.00001); RHTH, 12.0±2.4 cm (20%; P<0.01); LHTH, 12.0±1.7 cm (13%; P<0.01); RHTW, 9.8±1.3 cm (4%; P=0.27); and LHTW, 7.9±2.3 cm (3%;P=0.11). As an entire group, patients with a BMI>17 kg/m² had more device-related than disease-related complications (P=0.09). Patients treated with SCC had 0.9 complications per patient. Patients treated with GFS had 2.2 complications per patient [≤5 y more often had ≥2 complications (P=0.05)]. At 2-year follow-up, SCC and GFS were both effective in treating EOS in PWS patients. Patients treated with SCC had significant improvements in spine height and LHTH. Patients treated with GFS had significant improvements in scoliosis magnitude, spine height, RHTH, and LHTH. Level IV-therapeutic study.

Clostridium perfringens in Long Island Sound sediments: An urban sedimentary record

USGS Publications Warehouse

Buchholtz ten Brink, Marilyn R.; Mecray, E.L.; Galvin, E.L.

2000-01-01

Clostridium perfringens is a conservative tracer and an indicator of sewage-derived pollution in the marine environment. The distribution of Clostridium perfringens spores was measured in sediments from Long Island Sound, USA, as part of a regional study designed to: (1) map the distribution of contaminated sediments; (2) determine transport and dispersal paths; (3) identify the locations of sediment and contaminant focusing; and (4) constrain predictive models. In 1996, sediment cores were collected at 58 stations, and surface sediments were collected at 219 locations throughout the Sound. Elevated concentrations of Clostridium perfringens in the sediments indicate that sewage pollution is present throughout Long Island Sound and has persisted for more than a century. Concentrations range from undetectable amounts to 15,000 spores/g dry sediment and are above background levels in the upper 30 cm at nearly all core locations. Sediment focusing strongly impacts the accumulation of Clostridium perfringens spores. Inventories in the cores range from 28 to 70,000 spores/cm2, and elevated concentrations can extend to depths of 50 cm. The steep gradients in Clostridium perfringens profiles in muddier cores contrast with concentrations that are generally constant with depth in sandier cores. Clostridium perfringens concentrations rarely decrease in the uppermost sediment, unlike those reported for metal contaminants. Concentrations in surface sediments are highest in the western end of the Sound, very low in the eastern region, and intermediate in the central part. This pattern reflects winnowing and focusing of Clostridium perfringens spores and fine-grained sediment by the hydrodynamic regime; however, the proximity of sewage sources to the westernmost Sound locally enhances the Clostridium perfringens signals.

Isotopic ratio and vertical distribution of radionuclides in soil affected by the accident of Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plants.

PubMed

Fujiwara, Takeshi; Saito, Takumi; Muroya, Yusa; Sawahata, Hiroyuki; Yamashita, Yuji; Nagasaki, Shinya; Okamoto, Koji; Takahashi, Hiroyuki; Uesaka, Mitsuru; Katsumura, Yosuke; Tanaka, Satoru

2012-11-01

The results of γ analyses of soil samples obtained from 50 locations in Fukushima prefecture on April 20, 2011, revealed the presence of a spectrum of radionuclides resulted from the accident of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant (FDNPP). The sum γ radioactivity concentration ranged in more than 3 orders of magnitude, depending on the sampling locations. The contamination of soils in the northwest of the FDNPP was considerable. The (131)I/(137)Cs activity ratios of the soil samples plotted as a function of the distance from the F1 NPPs exhibited three distinctive patterns. Such patterns would reflect not only the different deposition behaviors of these radionuclides, but also on the conditions of associated release events such as temperature and compositions and physicochemical forms of released radionuclides. The (136)Cs/(137)Cs activity ratio, on the other hand, was considered to only reflect the difference in isotopic compositions of source materials. Two locations close to the NPP in the northwest direction were found to be depleted in short-lived (136)Cs. This likely suggested the presence of distinct sources with different (136)Cs/(137)Cs isotopic ratios, although their details were unknown at present. Vertical γ activity profiles of (131)I and (137)Cs were also investigated, using 20-30 cm soil cores in several locations. About 70% or more of the radionuclides were present in the uppermost 2-cm regions. It was found that the profiles of (131)I/(137)Cs activity ratios showed maxima in the 2-4 cm regions, suggesting slightly larger migration of the former nuclide. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Glass Inclusions and Melt Volatile Contents in the Late-Quaternary Basanites and Minettes of Colima (Mexico)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maria, A. H.; Luhr, J. F.

2002-12-01

Olivine-hosted glass inclusions from fine tephra collected at three basanite-minette cinder cones on the lower flanks of the Colima Volcanic Complex in western Mexico were analyzed by electron microprobe and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). These nepheline-normative rocks have elemental-abundance patterns that mimic those of the volumetrically dominant subduction-related andesites, but at much higher abundance levels. Sr, Nd, and Pb isotopic ratios are also similar for the two suites. We interpret the Colima basanites and minettes as recording the "essence" of subduction-zone geochemistry, produced by nearly pure melting of phlogopite-rich veins in the mantle wedge, and erupted in western Mexico only because of its unusual upper crustal extensional regime. Similar melts impart the subduction-zone geochemical flavor to the dominant andesites, which differentiate from basalts produced by higher degrees of mantle wallrock melting. Olivine crystals separated from the basanite-minette tephra have Mg#s that range from 81.5 to 90.7. The 34 glass inclusions studied contain 49-60 wt.% SiO2 and include 2 with normative quartz, and 6 with normative hypersthene, with the remaining 26 containing up to 11.5% normative nepheline. The glasses also contain 2.8-8.4% K2O, 0.16-0.33% Cl, and 0.03-1.19% total sulfur as SO3. Comparison of Fe/Mg values of glass and host olivines indicates 1-5% crystallization of olivine from the inclusions following entrapment. FTIR measurements were made on 26 of the inclusions. No reliable carbonate or CO2 peaks were detected in any glass inclusion, but a significant 2350 cm-1 CO2 peak was found for a bubble completely trapped within one inclusion. Total water contents estimated from the 3535 cm-1 peak range from 0.2 % to 2.0%, with only 8 values above 1%. These relatively low water contents are surprising, especially for the phlogopite-bearing minettes. A value of 2.0% water corresponds to water saturation at a pressure of 415 bars, equivalent to a depth of 1600 m. We consider the possibility that the magmas ascended through much of the crust in a superheated condition, and stagnated in the uppermost crust where the bulk of the olivine crystals grew in a rapid skeletal fashion trapping the glass inclusions. Such stagnation is consistent with the complete lack of ultramafic xenoliths at these cones. Published phase-equilibrium experiments on an olivine-bearing minette imply that phlogopite is stable down to pressures of 200-400 bars, also consistent with this interpretation.

Compressive properties of commercially available polyurethane foams as mechanical models for osteoporotic human cancellous bone

PubMed Central

Patel, Purvi SD; Shepherd, Duncan ET; Hukins, David WL

2008-01-01

Background Polyurethane (PU) foam is widely used as a model for cancellous bone. The higher density foams are used as standard biomechanical test materials, but none of the low density PU foams are universally accepted as models for osteoporotic (OP) bone. The aim of this study was to determine whether low density PU foam might be suitable for mimicking human OP cancellous bone. Methods Quasi-static compression tests were performed on PU foam cylinders of different lengths (3.9 and 7.7 mm) and of different densities (0.09, 0.16 and 0.32 g.cm-3), to determine the Young's modulus, yield strength and energy absorbed to yield. Results Young's modulus values were 0.08–0.93 MPa for the 0.09 g.cm-3 foam and from 15.1–151.4 MPa for the 0.16 and 0.32 g.cm-3 foam. Yield strength values were 0.01–0.07 MPa for the 0.09 g.cm-3 foam and from 0.9–4.5 MPa for the 0.16 and 0.32 g.cm-3 foam. The energy absorbed to yield was found to be negligible for all foam cylinders. Conclusion Based on these results, it is concluded that 0.16 g.cm-3 PU foam may prove to be suitable as an OP cancellous bone model when fracture stress, but not energy dissipation, is of concern. PMID:18844988

High-powered microwave ablation with a small-gauge, gas-cooled antenna: initial ex vivo and in vivo results.

PubMed

Lubner, Meghan G; Hinshaw, J Louis; Andreano, Anita; Sampson, Lisa; Lee, Fred T; Brace, Christopher L

2012-03-01

To evaluate the performance of a gas-cooled, high-powered microwave system. Investigators performed 54 ablations in ex vivo bovine livers using three devices-a single 17-gauge cooled radiofrequency(RF) electrode; a cluster RF electrode; and a single 17-gauge, gas-cooled microwave (MW) antenna-at three time points (n = 6 at 4 minutes, 12 minutes, and 16 minutes). RF power was applied using impedance-based pulsing with maximum 200 W generator output. MW power of 135 W at 2.45 GHz was delivered continuously. An approved in vivo study was performed using 13 domestic pigs. Hepatic ablations were performed using single applicators and the above-mentioned MW and RF generator systems at treatment times of 2 minutes (n = 7 MW, n = 6 RF), 5 minutes (n = 23 MW, n = 8 RF), 7 minutes (n = 11 MW, n = 6 RF), and 10 minutes (n = 7 MW, n = 9 RF). Mean transverse diameter and length of the ablation zones were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post-hoc t tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Single ex vivo MW ablations were larger than single RF ablations at all time points (MW mean diameter range 3.5-4.8 cm 4-16 minutes; RF mean diameter range 2.6-3.1 cm 4-16 minutes) (P < .05). There was no difference in mean diameter between cluster RF and MW ablations (RF 3.3-4.4 cm 4-16 minutes; P = .4-.9). In vivo lesion diameters for MW (and RF) were as follows: 2.6 cm ± 0.72 (RF 1.5 cm ± 0.14), 3.6 cm ± 0.89 (RF 2.0 cm ± 0.4), 3.4 cm ± 0.87 (RF 1.8 cm ± 0.23), and 3.8 cm ± 0.74 (RF 2.1 cm ± 0.3) at 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 7 minutes, and 10 minutes (P < .05 all time points). Gas-cooled, high-powered MW ablation allows the generation of large ablation zones in short times. Copyright © 2012 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Uppermost mantle (Pn) velocity model for the Afar region, Ethiopia: an insight into rifting processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stork, A. L.; Stuart, G. W.; Henderson, C. M.; Keir, D.; Hammond, J. O. S.

2013-04-01

The Afar Depression, Ethiopia, offers unique opportunities to study the transition from continental rifting to oceanic spreading because the process is occurring onland. Using traveltime tomography and data from a temporary seismic deployment, we describe the first regional study of uppermost mantle P-wave velocities (VPn). We find two separate low VPn zones (as low as 7.2 km s-1) beneath regions of localized thinned crust in northern Afar, indicating the existence of high temperatures and, potentially, partial melt. The zones are beneath and off-axis from, contemporary crustal magma intrusions in active magmatic segments, the Dabbahu-Manda-Hararo and Erta'Ale segments. This suggests that these intrusions can be fed by off-axis delivery of melt in the uppermost mantle and that discrete areas of mantle upwelling and partial melting, thought to characterize segmentation of the uppermost mantle at seafloor spreading centres, are initiated during the final stages of break-up.

National Centers for Environmental Prediction

Science.gov Websites

) soilm1 0-10cm soil moisture soilm2 10-40cm soil moisture soilm3 40-100cm soil moisture soilm4 100-200cm soil moisture soilt1 0-10cm soil temperature soilt2 10-40cm soil temperature soilt3 40-100cm soil temperature soilt4 100-200cm soil temperature thick700.ptype 850-700mb thickness precipitation type thick850

Tailoring of the titanium surface by preparing cardiovascular endothelial extracellular matrix layer on the hyaluronic acid micro-pattern for improving biocompatibility.

PubMed

Li, Jingan; Zhang, Kun; Wu, Juejue; Zhang, Lijuan; Yang, Ping; Tu, Qiufen; Huang, Nan

2015-04-01

It has been proved that high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA, 1×10(6) Da) micro-strips on titanium (Ti) surface can elongate the human vascular endothelial cell (EC) morphology, subsequently enhance endothelial extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in our previous work. The HMW-HA micro-strips were anticipated to possess good hemocompatibility and EC compatibility simultaneously. However, the single HMW-HA micro-strips on Ti substrate showed bad hemocompatibility. To solve this problem, a method combining HA micro-pattern and EC decellularization was developed, and the endothelial extracellular matrix layer on the HA micro-pattern (ECM/HAP) showed excellent hemocompatibility and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) compatibility (cell number: 14.3±0.5×10(5) cells/cm2>2.2±0.7×10(5) cells/cm2 on ECM/TiOH, 7.5±1.3×10(5) cells/cm2 on TiOH, 3.4±0.9×10(5) cells/cm2 on TiOH/HAP and 3.6±1.2×10(5) cells/cm2 on Ti). We also found that the ECM/HAP coating could significantly inhibit the excessive proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) (cck-8 absorption: 0.25±0.06<1.18±0.09 A.U. on ECM/TiOH, 0.87±0.15 A.U. on TiOH and 1.55±0.11 A.U. on Ti) and the attachment of macrophages (cell number: 1.3±0.1×10(3)<9.2±1.5×10(3) cells/cm2 on ECM/TiOH, 8.8±0.3×10(3) cells/cm2 on TiOH, 7.3±0.7×10(3) cells/cm2 on TiOH/HAP and 9.6±0.9×10(3) cells/cm2 on Ti in 12 h). These data suggest that the multifunctional ECM/HAP coating can be used to build the bionic human endothelial ECM on the biomaterials surface, which might provide a potential and effective method for surface modification of cardiovascular devices. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

50 CFR Appendix D to Part 622 - Specifications for Certified BRDs

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (7.6-cm) piece of 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) aluminum pipe and pressed with a 3/8-inch (0.95-cm) die to form a... must be constructed of either number 60 twine 80 inches (203.2 cm) in length or 3/8-inch (0.95-cm... excluder device (TED) grid; and, (4) the area of the escape opening must total at least 864 in2 (5,574.2...

The Architecture of Fat Grafting: What Lies beneath the Surface.

PubMed

Bourne, Debra A; James, Isaac B; Wang, Sheri S; Marra, Kacey G; Rubin, J Peter

2016-03-01

Fat grafting is a powerful procedure limited by unpredictable volume loss. Grafted tissue survives via plasmatic imbibition until neovascularization occurs; therefore, fat that is deposited more than 0.2 cm from capillaries will undergo central necrosis. This study aims to determine the architecture of fat deposits within the recipient bed following fat grafting. Fat was harvested by liposuction and stained with methylene blue. Stained fat was grafted into 4 × 4 × 2-cm sections of pannus tissue at graft-to-recipient volume ratios ranging from 1:10 to 1:1. Each tissue block was sectioned for stained graft visualization. The diameter of each deposit and the percentage with a radius greater than 0.2 cm were recorded. Average tunnel diameter was 0.20 ± 0.01 cm at a graft-to-recipient ratio of 1:10, 0.25 ± 0.01 cm at 1:8, 0.26 ± 0.01 cm at 1:6, 0.31 ± 0.01 cm at 1:4, 0.40 ± 0.01 cm at 1:2, and 0.57 ± 0.02 cm at 1:1. All comparisons reached statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05) except 1:8 versus 1:6 (p = 0.96). The percentage of fat parcels with a radius greater than 0.2 cm was 3.0 percent at 1:10, 5.3 percent at 1:8, 9.5 percent at 1:6, 20.9 percent at 1:4, 42.0 percent at 1:2, and 68.3 percent at 1:1. All percentage comparisons were significant except 1:10 versus 1:8 (p = 0.15). As the total volume transferred increases, grafted deposits coalesce to form larger globules, particularly at ratios beyond 1:4, likely contributing to central necrosis and subsequent volume loss. Therapeutic, V.

Eu3+-doped (Y0.5La0.5)2O3: new nanophosphor with the bixbyite cubic structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Đorđević, Vesna; Nikolić, Marko G.; Bartova, Barbora; Krsmanović, Radenka M.; Antić, Željka; Dramićanin, Miroslav D.

2013-01-01

New red sesquioxide phosphor, Eu3+-doped (Y0.5La0.5)2O3, was synthesized in the form of nanocrystalline powder with excellent structural ordering in cubic bixbyite-type, and with nanoparticle sizes ranging between 10 and 20 nm. Photoluminescence measurements show strong, Eu3+ characteristic, red emission ( x = 0.66 and y = 0.34 CIE color coordinates) with an average 5D0 emission lifetime of about 1.3 ms. Maximum splitting of the 7F1 manifold of the Eu3+ ion emission behaves in a way directly proportional to the crystal field strength parameter, and experimental results show perfect agreement with theoretical values for pure cubic sesquioxides. This could be used as an indicator of complete dissolution of Y2O3 and La2O3, showing that (Y0.5La0.5)2O3:Eu3+ behaves as a new bixbyite structure oxide, M2O3, where M acts as an ion having average ionic radius of constituting Y3+ and La3+. Emission properties of this new phosphor were documented with detailed assignments of Eu3+ energy levels at 10 K and at room temperature. Second order crystal field parameters were found to be B 20 = -66 cm-1 and B 22 = -665 cm-1 at 10 K and B 20 = -78 cm-1 and B 22 = -602 cm-1 at room temperature, while for the crystal field strength the value of 1495 cm-1 was calculated at 10 K and 1355 cm-1 at room temperature.

Crustal structure of the Boreas Basin formed at ultraslow spreading Knipovich Ridge - Northern North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, T.; Jokat, W.

2012-04-01

The Boreas Basin is located in Norwegian Greenland Sea bordered by the Greenland Fracture Zone in the south and the Hovgard Ridge in the north, respectively. In the east it adjoins the ultraslow mid-ocean Knipovich Ridge. Previous seismic reflection studies in the Boreas Basin have shown that the basement topography has a roughness, which is typical for ultraslow spreading ridges. This observation supports assumptions that the basin was formed at ultraslow spreading rates during its entire geological history. However, the detailed crustal structure remained unresolved. In summer 2009 new seismic refraction data were acquired in the Boreas Basin during the expedition ARK-XXIV/3 with the research vessel Polarstern. The deep seismic sounding line has a length of 340 km. Forward modelling of the data of 18 ocean bottom seismometers deployed along the NW-SE trending profile reveal an unusual 3.2 km thin oceanic crust. The crustal model is further constrained by S-wave and 2D gravity modelling. The P-wave velocity model shows a layered oceanic crust without oceanic layer 3 and with velocities less than 6.3 km/s except beneath a nearly 2000 m high seamount. Beneath the seamount velocities of up to 6.7 km/s were observed. The mantle velocities range between 7.5 km/s in the uppermost mantle and 8.0 km/s in almost 15 km depth. A serpentinisation of approximately 13% in the uppermost mantle decreasing downwards can explain the low mantle velocities. In summary, the transect confirms earlier models that the entire Boreas Basin was formed at ultraslow spreading rates. Indications for this are the basement roughness and the overall thin oceanic crust. Both observations are typical for ultraslow spreading systems.

Identifying Moho depths and velocity anomalies in the uppermost mantle of the Mississippi Embayment from Pn tomography and anisotropy studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basu, U.; Powell, C. A.

2017-12-01

Lateral depth variations of the Mohorovicic discontinuity, Pn velocities, and anisotropy features at uppermost mantle depths below the central U.S. are determined using Pn tomography. Excellent raypath coverage throughout the northern Mississippi Embayment (ME) is obtained using the NELE (Northern Embayment Lithosphere Experiment) and US TA (Transportable Array) datasets. High Pn velocities are present below the northern portion of the Reelfoot Rift and the New Madrid seismic zone. Prominent regions of low velocity are present to the east and north of the ME, in agreement with recent teleseismic tomography studies indicating the presence of low P- and S-wave velocities in the uppermost mantle. A prominent region of low velocity coincides with the southwestern portion of the Illinois Basin. Higher velocities are located west of the Illinois Basin and west of the Ozark Plateau. Crustal thicknesses obtained from the Pn station delays indicate thinner crust in the southern Coastal Plain and ME and thicker crust north of the ME. Strong Pn anisotropy and rotation of the fast directions are associated with the northern ME. Fast directions differ from present absolute plate motion directions and from fast directions determined from SKS splitting, suggesting the presence of multiple anisotropic layers. Parameter errors estimated using the bootstrap method are all less than 0.1 km/s for velocity and magnitude of the anisotropy.

Renal ablation using magnetic resonance-guided high intensity focused ultrasound: Magnetic resonance imaging and histopathology assessment.

PubMed

Saeed, Maythem; Krug, Roland; Do, Loi; Hetts, Steven W; Wilson, Mark W

2016-03-28

To use magnetic resonance-guided high intensity focused ultrasound (MRg-HIFU), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathology for noninvasively ablating, quantifying and characterizing ablated renal tissue. Six anesthetized/mechanically-ventilated pigs underwent single/double renal sonication (n = 24) using a 3T-MRg-HIFU (1.1 MHz frequency and 3000J-4400J energies). T2-weighted fast spin echo (T2-W), perfusion saturation recovery gradient echo and contrast enhanced (CE) T1-weighted (T1-W) sequences were used for treatment planning, temperature monitoring, lesion visualization, characterization and quantification, respectively. Histopathology was conducted in excised kidneys to quantify and characterize cellular and vascular changes. Paired Student's t-test was used and a P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Ablated renal parenchyma could not be differentiated from normal parenchyma on T2-W or non-CE T1-W sequences. Ablated renal lesions were visible as hypoenhanced regions on perfusion and CE T1-W MRI sequences, suggesting perfusion deficits and necrosis. Volumes of ablated parenchyma on CE T1-W images in vivo (0.12-0.36 cm(3) for single sonication 3000J, 0.50-0.84 cm(3), for double 3000J, 0.75-0.78 cm(3) for single 4400J and 0.12-2.65 cm(3) for double 4400J) and at postmortem (0.23-0.52 cm(3), 0.25-0.82 cm(3), 0.45-0.68 cm(3) and 0.29-1.80 cm(3), respectively) were comparable. The ablated volumes on 3000J and 4400J double sonication were significantly larger than single (P < 0.01), thus, the volume and depth of ablated tissue depends on the applied energy and number of sonication. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations confirmed the locations and presence of coagulation necrosis, vascular damage and interstitial hemorrhage, respectively. Contrast enhanced MRI provides assessment of MRg-HIFU renal ablation. Histopathology demonstrated coagulation necrosis, vascular damage and confirmed the volume of damage seen on MRI.

Visual Performance of a Quadrifocal (Trifocal) Intraocular Lens Following Removal of the Crystalline Lens.

PubMed

Kohnen, Thomas; Herzog, Michael; Hemkeppler, Eva; Schönbrunn, Sabrina; De Lorenzo, Nina; Petermann, Kerstin; Böhm, Myriam

2017-12-01

To evaluate visual performance after implantation of a quadrifocal intraocular lens (IOL). Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany. Twenty-seven patients (54 eyes) received bilateral implantation of the PanOptix IOL (AcrySof IQ PanOptixTM; Alcon Research, Fort Worth, Texas, USA) pre-enrollment. Exclusion criteria were previous ocular surgeries, corneal astigmatism of >1.5 diopter (D), ocular pathologies, or corneal abnormalities. Intervention or Observational Procedure(s): Postoperative examination at 3 months including manifest refraction; uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and distance-corrected visual acuity (DCVA) in 4 m, 80 cm, 60 cm, and 40 cm slit-lamp examination; defocus testing; contrast sensitivity (CS) under photopic and mesopic conditions; and a questionnaire on subjective quality of vision, optical phenomena, and spectacle independence was performed. At 3 months postoperatively, UCVA and DCVA in 4 m, 80 cm, 60 cm, and 40 cm (logMAR), defocus curves, CS, and quality-of-vision questionnaire results. Mean spherical equivalent was -0.04 ± 0.321 D 3 months postoperatively. Binocular UCVA at distance, intermediate (80 cm, 60 cm), and near was 0.00 ± 0.094 logMAR, 0.09 ± 0.107 logMAR, 0.00 ± 0.111 logMAR, and 0.01 ± 0.087 logMAR, respectively. Binocular defocus curve showed peaks with best visual acuity (VA) at 0.00 D (-0.07 logMAR) and -2.00 D (-0.02 logMAR). Visual performance of the PanOptix IOL showed good VA at all distances; particularly good intermediate VA (logMAR > 0.1), with best VA at 60 cm; and high patient satisfaction and spectacle independence 3 months postoperatively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The late Barremian Halimedides horizon of the Dolomites (Southern Alps, Italy).

PubMed

Lukeneder, Alexander; Uchman, Alfred; Gaillard, Christian; Olivero, Davide

2012-06-01

A new trace fossil marker level, the Halimedides horizon, is proposed for the Lower Cretaceous pelagic to hemipelagic succession of the Puez area (Southern Alps, Italy). The horizon occurs in the middle part of the late Barremian Gerhardtia sartousiana Zone ( Gerhardtia sartousiana Subzone). It is approximately 20 cm thick and restricted to the uppermost part of the Puez Limestone Member (marly limestones; Hauterivian-Barremian; Puez Formation). It is fixed to the top 20 cm of bed P1/204. The grey-whitish limestone bed of the G. sartousiana Zone is penetrated by Aptian red marls-siltstones of the Redbed Member. The horizon is documented for the first time from the Southern Alps, including the Dolomites, and can be correlated with other Mediterranean localities. The trace fossil assemblage of this marker bed with the co-occurrence of Halimedides , Spongeliomorpha and Zoophycos sheds light on the Lower Cretaceous sedimentological history and current system of the Puez area within the Dolomites. It also highlights the palaeoenvironmental evolution of basins and plateaus and provides insights into the late Barremian interval.

The late Barremian Halimedides horizon of the Dolomites (Southern Alps, Italy)

PubMed Central

Lukeneder, Alexander; Uchman, Alfred; Gaillard, Christian; Olivero, Davide

2012-01-01

A new trace fossil marker level, the Halimedides horizon, is proposed for the Lower Cretaceous pelagic to hemipelagic succession of the Puez area (Southern Alps, Italy). The horizon occurs in the middle part of the late Barremian Gerhardtia sartousiana Zone (Gerhardtia sartousiana Subzone). It is approximately 20 cm thick and restricted to the uppermost part of the Puez Limestone Member (marly limestones; Hauterivian–Barremian; Puez Formation). It is fixed to the top 20 cm of bed P1/204. The grey–whitish limestone bed of the G. sartousiana Zone is penetrated by Aptian red marls–siltstones of the Redbed Member. The horizon is documented for the first time from the Southern Alps, including the Dolomites, and can be correlated with other Mediterranean localities. The trace fossil assemblage of this marker bed with the co-occurrence of Halimedides, Spongeliomorpha and Zoophycos sheds light on the Lower Cretaceous sedimentological history and current system of the Puez area within the Dolomites. It also highlights the palaeoenvironmental evolution of basins and plateaus and provides insights into the late Barremian interval. PMID:27087717

Evaluation of ground calcite/water heavy media cyclone suspensions for production of residual plastic concentrates.

PubMed

Gent, Malcolm; Sierra, Héctor Muñiz; Menéndez, Mario; de Cos Juez, Francisco Javier

2018-01-01

Viable recycled residual plastic (RP) product(s) must be of sufficient quality to be reusable as a plastic or source of hydrocarbons or fuel. The varied composition and large volumes of such wastes usually requires a low cost, high through-put recycling method(s) to eliminate contaminants. Cyclone separation of plastics by density is proposed as a potential method of achieving separations of specific types of plastics. Three ground calcite separation medias of different grain size distributions were tested in a cylindrical cyclone to evaluate density separations at 1.09, 1.18 and 1.27 g/cm 3 . The differences in separation recoveries obtained with these medias by density offsets produced due to displacement of separation media solid particles within the cyclone caused by centrifugal settling is evaluated. The separation density at which 50% of the material of that density is recovered was found to increase from 0.010 to 0.026 g/cm 3 as the separation media density increased from 1.09 to 1.27 g/cm 3 . All separation medias were found to have significantly low Ep 95 values of 0.012-0.033 g/cm 3 . It is also demonstrated that the presence of an excess content of <10 µm calcite media particles (>75%) resulted in reduced separation efficiencies. It is shown that the optimum separations were achieved when the media density offset was 0.03-0.04 g/cm 3 . It is shown that effective heavy media cyclone separations of RP denser than 1.0 g/cm 3 can produce three sets of mixed plastics containing: PS and ABS/SAN at densities of >1.0-1.09 g/cm 3 ; PC, PMMA at a density of 1.09-1.18 g/cm 3 ; and PVC and PET at a density of >1.27 g/cm 3 . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Welsh, James, E-mail: jwelsh@mdanderson.org; Amini, Arya; UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) can produce excellent local control of several types of solid tumor; however, toxicity to nearby critical structures is a concern. We found previously that in SBRT for lung cancer, the chest wall (CW) volume receiving 20, 30, or 40 Gy (V{sub 20}, V{sub 30}, or V{sub 40}) was linked with the development of neuropathy. Here we sought to determine whether the dosimetric advantages of protons could produce lower CW doses than traditional photon-based SBRT. We searched an institutional database to identify patients treated with photon SBRT for lung cancer with tumors within < 2.5 cm ofmore » the CW. We found 260 cases; of these, chronic grade ≥ 2 CW pain was identified in 23 patients. We then selected 10 representative patients from this group and generated proton SBRT treatment plans, using the identical dose of 50 Gy in 4 fractions, and assessed potential differences in CW dose between the 2 plans. The proton SBRT plans reduced the CW doses at all dose levels measured. The median CW V{sub 20} was 364.0 cm{sup 3} and 160.0 cm{sup 3} (p < 0.0001), V{sub 30} was 144.6 cm{sup 3}vs 77.0 cm{sup 3} (p = 0.0012), V{sub 35} was 93.9 cm{sup 3}vs 57.9 cm{sup 3} (p = 0.005), V{sub 40} was 66.5 cm{sup 3}vs 45.4 cm{sup 3} (p = 0.0112), and mean lung dose was 5.9 Gy vs 3.8 Gy (p = 0.0001) for photons and protons, respectively. Coverage of the planning target volume (PTV) was comparable between the 2 sets of plans (96.4% for photons and 97% for protons). From a dosimetric standpoint, proton SBRT can achieve the same coverage of the PTV while significantly reducing the dose to the CW and lung relative to photon SBRT and therefore may be beneficial for the treatment of lesions closer to critical structures.« less

Probing resistivity and doping concentration of semiconductors at the nanoscale using scanning microwave microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brinciotti, Enrico; Gramse, Georg; Hommel, Soeren; Schweinboeck, Thomas; Altes, Andreas; Fenner, Matthias A.; Smoliner, Juergen; Kasper, Manuel; Badino, Giorgio; Tuca, Silviu-Sorin; Kienberger, Ferry

2015-08-01

We present a new method to extract resistivity and doping concentration of semiconductor materials from Scanning Microwave Microscopy (SMM) S11 reflection measurements. Using a three error parameters de-embedding workflow, the S11 raw data are converted into calibrated capacitance and resistance images where no calibration sample is required. The SMM capacitance and resistance values were measured at 18 GHz and ranged from 0 to 100 aF and from 0 to 1 MΩ, respectively. A tip-sample analytical model that includes tip radius, microwave penetration skin depth, and semiconductor depletion layer width has been applied to extract resistivity and doping concentration from the calibrated SMM resistance. The method has been tested on two doped silicon samples and in both cases the resistivity and doping concentration are in quantitative agreement with the data-sheet values over a range of 10-3 Ω cm to 101 Ω cm, and 1014 atoms per cm3 to 1020 atoms per cm3, respectively. The measured dopant density values, with related uncertainties, are [1.1 +/- 0.6] × 1018 atoms per cm3, [2.2 +/- 0.4] × 1017 atoms per cm3, [4.5 +/- 0.2] × 1016 atoms per cm3, [4.5 +/- 1.3] × 1015 atoms per cm3, [4.5 +/- 1.7] × 1014 atoms per cm3. The method does not require sample treatment like cleavage and cross-sectioning, and high contact imaging forces are not necessary, thus it is easily applicable to various semiconductor and materials science investigations.

Upper crustal emplacement and deformation of granitoids inside the Uppermost Unit of the Cretan nappe stack: constraints from U-Pb zircon dating, microfabrics and paleostress analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kneuker, Tilo; Dörr, Wolfgang; Petschick, Rainer; Zulauf, Gernold

2015-03-01

The present study is dealing with the emplacement and deformation of diorite and quartz diorite exposed along new road cuts between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia (Uppermost Unit, eastern Crete). Mingling of both melt types is indicated by enclaves of diorite inside quartz diorite and vice versa. The diorite and quartz diorite intruded into coarse-grained white marble, which is in lateral contact to, but also forms the roof of, the intrusive body. Evidence for contact metamorphism is indicated by increasing grain size of calcite in the marble with decreasing distance from the diorite. U-Pb (TIMS) dating of zircons, separated from quartz diorite, yielded a concordant age at 74.0 ± 0.25 Ma, which is interpreted as emplacement age. As this age is close to published K-Ar cooling ages of hornblende and biotite, the melt should have intruded and cooled down rapidly at upper structural levels, which is not common for granitoids of the Uppermost Unit of Crete. Upper crustal melt emplacement is also documented by stoped blocks and by the lack of any ductile (viscous) deformation. The diorite and quartz diorite, however, are affected by strong post-Oligocene brittle faulting. Paleostress analysis, based on these faults, revealed a change in stress field from N-S and NNW-SSE shortening by thrusting (convergence between African and European plates) to NNE-SSW and NE-SW shortening accommodated by strike-slip (SW-ward extrusion of the Anatolian microplate). Calcite-twin density indicates high differential stress (260 ± 20 MPa) related to these phases of crustal shortening.

Electrical characterization of 6H crystalline silicon carbide. M.S. Thesis Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lempner, Stephen E.

1994-01-01

Crystalline silicon carbide (SiC) substrates and epilayers, undoped as well as n- and p-doped, have been electrically characterized by performing Hall effect and resistivity measurements (van der Pauw) over the temperature range of approximately 85 K to 650 K (200 K to 500 K for p-type sample). By fitting the measured temperature dependent carrier concentration data to the single activation energy theoretical model: (1) the activation energy for the nitrogen donor ranged from 0.078 eV to 0.101 eV for a doping concentration range of 10(exp 17) cm(exp -3) to 10(exp 18) cm(exp -3) and (2) the activation energy for the aluminum acceptor was 0.252 eV for a doping concentration of 4.6 x 10(exp 18) cm(exp -3). By fitting the measured temperature dependent carrier concentration data to the double activation energy level theoretical model for the nitrogen donor: (1) the activation energy for the hexagonal site was 0.056 eV and 0.093 eV corresponding to doping concentrations of 3.33 x 10 (exp 17) cm(exp -3) and 1.6 x 10(exp 18) cm(exp -3) and (2) the activation energy for the cubic site was 0.113 and 0.126 eV corresponding to doping concentrations of 4.2 x 10(exp 17) cm(exp -3) and 5.4 x 10(exp 18) cm(exp -3).

The effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with intermittent activity on appetite sensations and subsequent food intake in preadolescent children.

PubMed

Ajibewa, Tiwaloluwa A; O'Sullivan, Molly P; Nagy, Matthew R; Block, Shannon S; Robinson, Leah E; Colabianchi, Natalie; Hasson, Rebecca E

2017-01-01

Short-term and long-term exposure to prolonged sitting is associated with excess food intake and weight gain in children. Interrupting prolonged sitting with low-intensity activity has been shown to not alter hunger, satiety, or food consumption in children, however it is unclear whether interrupting sitting with high-intensity activity will alter appetite regulation in children. The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with intermittent activity performed at varying intensities on hunger, satiety, prospective food consumption (PFC), and food intake in preadolescent children. Thirty-nine children (ages 7-11 years, 54% female, 33% overweight/obese) completed four experimental conditions in random order: 8 hours of sitting interrupted with 20, 2-minute low-, moderate-, or high-intensity activity breaks or 20, 2-minute sedentary screen time breaks. Exercise intensity corresponded with 25%, 50% and 75% of heart rate reserve, respectively. Hunger, satiety, and PFC were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, at five time points (pre- and post-breakfast, pre- and post-lunch, and pre-dinner) during each experimental condition. Dietary compensation was assessed as total caloric intake during a post-condition dinner standardized to provide 70% of estimated daily energy requirements. There was a significant effect of time on hunger, satiety, and PFC throughout each condition day (p< 0.001). There were no differences across conditions for hunger (sedentary: 4.9±0.3 cm, low: 5.0±0.3 cm, moderate: 5.1±0.3 cm, high: 5.1±0.3 cm, p>0.05), satiety (sedentary: 4.7±0.3 cm, low: 4.4±0.3 cm, moderate: 4.6±0.3 cm, high: 4.2±0.3 cm, p>0.05), and PFC (sedentary: 4.9±0.3 cm, low: 4.7±0.3 cm, moderate: 4.9±0.3 cm, high: 5.0±0.3 cm, p>0.05). There were no significant differences in post-activity food intake across conditions (sedentary: 1071.9±53.6 kcals; low: 1092.6±43.4kcals; moderate: 996.2±54.6kcals; high: 1138.7±62.8kcals, p>0.05). However, there was a significant effect of condition on energy balance (sedentary: +61.4±65.9 kcals, low: +74.9±57.6 kcals, moderate: -58.3±62.8 kcals, high: -391.2±77.9 kcals; p<0.001). There were no significant effects of weight status on hunger, satiety, PFC, post-activity food intake, and mean energy balance across conditions (all p's>0.05). Interrupting prolonged sitting with physical activity of any intensity does not alter appetite sensations and subsequent food consumption in children. These data suggest that interventions targeting prolonged sitting with high-intensity intermittent activity may be an effective strategy to increase physical activity energy expenditure without increasing food intake, allowing for a short-term energy deficit in both healthy weight and overweight/obese children. Future studies should examine the long-term effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with activity on food consumption and weight status in preadolescent children.

Maternal smoking during pregnancy and genetic polymorphisms in the Ah receptor, CYP1A1 and GSTM1 affect infant birth size in Japanese subjects.

PubMed

Sasaki, S; Kondo, T; Sata, F; Saijo, Y; Katoh, S; Nakajima, S; Ishizuka, M; Fujita, S; Kishi, R

2006-02-01

Genetic susceptibility to tobacco smoke might have relation to adverse pregnancy outcomes. To estimate the effects of maternal smoking and genetic polymorphisms on infant birth weight and length, we conducted a prospective cohort study of 293 women who delivered singleton live births in Sapporo, Japan. Birth weight and length were significantly lower among infants born to continuously smoking women having the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) wild type genotype (Arg/Arg; 211 g +/- 76 g; 1.2 cm +/- 0.4 cm, p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively), the CYP1A1 variant genotype (m1/m2 + m2/m2; 170 g +/- 64 g, 0.8 cm +/- 0.3 cm, p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively), or the GSTM1 null genotype (171 g +/- 58 g, 0.6 cm +/- 0.3 cm, p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). When combinations of these genotypes were considered, birth weight and length were significantly lower for infants of continuously smoking women in the AhR wild type + CYP1A1 variant group (315 g +/- 116 g; 1.7 cm +/- 0.6 cm, p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively) and in the CYP1A1 variant + GSTM1 null group (237 g +/- 92 g; 1.3 cm +/- 0.5 cm, p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). These genotypes did not confer adverse effects among women who had never smoked; therefore, maternal smoking in combination with maternal AhR, CYP1A1 and GSTM1 genetic polymorphisms may adversely affect infant birth size.

Effect of high-pitch dual-source CT to compensate motion artifacts: a phantom study.

PubMed

Farshad-Amacker, Nadja A; Alkadhi, Hatem; Leschka, Sebastian; Frauenfelder, Thomas

2013-10-01

To evaluate the potential of high-pitch, dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) for compensation of motion artifacts. Motion artifacts were created using a moving chest/cardiac phantom with integrated stents at different velocities (from 0 to 4-6 cm/s) parallel (z direction), transverse (x direction), and diagonal (x and z direction combined) to the scanning direction using standard-pitch (SP) (pitch = 1) and high-pitch (HP) (pitch = 3.2) 128-detector DSCT (Siemens, Healthcare, Forchheim, Germany). The scanning parameters were (SP/HP): tube voltage, 120 kV/120 kV; effective tube current time product, 300 mAs/500 mAs; and a pitch of 1/3.2. Motion artifacts were analyzed in terms of subjective image quality and object distortion. Image quality was rated by two blinded, independent observers using a 4-point scoring system (1, excellent; 2, good with minor object distortion or blurring; 3, diagnostically partially not acceptable; and 4, diagnostically not acceptable image quality). Object distortion was assessed by the measured changes of the object's outer diameter (x) and length (z) and a corresponding calculated distortion vector (d) (d = √(x(2) + z(2))). The interobserver agreement was excellent (k = 0.91). Image quality using SP was diagnostically not acceptable with any motion in x direction (scores 3 and 4), in contrast to HP DSCT where it remained diagnostic up to 2 cm/s (scores 1 and 2). For motion in the z direction only, image quality remained diagnostic for SP and HP DSCT (scores 1 and 2). Changes of the object's diameter (x), length (z), and distortion vectors (d) were significantly greater with SP (overall: x = 1.9 cm ± 1.7 cm, z = 0.6 cm ± 0.8 cm, and d = 1.4 cm ± 1.5 cm) compared to HP DSCT (overall: x = 0.1 cm ± 0.1 cm, z = 0.0 cm ± 0.1 cm, and d = 0.1 cm ± 0.1 cm; each P < .05). High-pitch DSCT significantly decreases motion artifacts in various directions and improves image quality. Copyright © 2013 AUR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Carrier Concentration Control of GaSb/GaInAsSb System

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

Lazzari, J.-L.; Anda, F. de; Nieto, J.

2007-02-22

The residual carrier concentration of GaSb and GaSb-lattice matched Ga1-xInxAsySb1-y alloys (x = 0.12-0.26; y = 0.9x) grown by liquid phase epitaxy (LPE) and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) was studied as a function of growth temperature, V/III ratio and alloy composition. Typical carrier concentrations p {approx} 2-3x1016 cm-3 were obtained for undoped GaSb grown by MBE at 480 deg. C, by LPE from Ga-rich melt at low temperature (400 deg. C), and by LPE from Sb-rich melts at {approx}600 deg. C. The native acceptor defect responsible of the high p-type residual doping in GaSb is reduced when the indium concentrationmore » is increased, and disappears for indium rich alloys (x = 0.23, 0.26). Tellurium compensation was used for controlled n-type doping in the (0.05-30)x1017 cm-3 range. A maximum of free carrier concentration was 1.5x1018 cm-3 for LPE layers, 2x1018 cm-3 for MBE layers grown at 1.0 {mu}m/h, 3.5x1018 cm-3 for MBE layers grown at 0.2 {mu}m/h. SIMS measurements showed Te concentrations of more than 1020 at/cm3, suggesting the formation of ternary GaSb1-xTex solid solution.« less

An in vitro study of silver and fluoride ions on remineralization of demineralized enamel and dentine.

PubMed

Zhi, Q H; Lo, E C M; Kwok, A C Y

2013-03-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of silver fluoride, silver nitrate and potassium fluoride on remineralization of demineralized enamel and dentine in vitro. Forty premolars were cut into cuboidal blocks. Acid-resistant varnish was painted onto each block to cover all surfaces, except two windows, one in enamel and one in dentine. The tooth blocks were placed in demineralizing solution for 96 hours. They were then randomly divided into four groups of 10 blocks each and immersed in solutions of AgF, AgNO(3), KF or water for 3 minutes. Afterwards, they were immersed in a remineralizing solution for 108 hours. Micro CT scanning was conducted before and after remineralization. The increase in linear attentuation coefficient (LAC) for the enamel lesions after remineralization was 1.08/cm, 0.95/cm, 0.86/cm and 0.60/cm in the AgF, AgNO(3), KF and control groups, respectively (ANOVA, p < 0.001; AgF, AgNO(3), KF > control; AgF > KF). The increase in LAC for the dentine lesions was 1.01/cm, 0.92/cm, 0.88/cm and 0.53/cm, respectively (ANOVA, p < 0.001; AgF, AgNO(3), KF > control). Topical application of silver or fluoride ions can increase the mineral density of demineralized enamel and dentine lesions during remineralization. The synergistic effect of silver and fluoride ions is relatively small. © 2013 Australian Dental Association.

Wavelength-resolved emission spectroscopy of the alkoxy and alkylthio radicals in a supersonic jet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Misra, Prabhakar; Zhu, Xinming; Hsueh, Ching-Yu; Kamal, Mohammed M.

1993-01-01

Wavelength-resolved emission spectra of methoxy (CH3O) and methylthio (CH3S) radicals have been obtained in a supersonic jet environment with a resolution of 0.3 nm by dispersing the total laser-induced fluorescence with a 0.6 m monochromator. A detailed analysis of the single vibronic level dispersed fluorescence spectra yields the following vibrational frequencies for CH3O in the X(2)E state; nu(sub 1 double prime) = 2953/cm, nu(sub 2 double prime) = 1375/cm, nu(sub 3 double prime) = 1062/cm, nu(sub 4 double prime) = 2869/cm, nu(sub 5 double prime) = 1528/cm and nu(sub 6 double prime) = 688/cm. A similar analysis of the wavelength-resolved emission spectra of CH3S provides the following ground state vibrational frequencies: nu(sub 2 double prime) = 1329/cm, nu(sub 3 double prime) = 739/cm and nu(sub 6 double prime) = 601/cm. An experimental uncertainty of 20/cm is estimated for the assigned frequencies.

Mobility of iridium in terrestrial environments: Implications for the interpretation of impact-related mass-extinctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martín-Peinado, F. J.; Rodríguez-Tovar, F. J.

2010-08-01

Traditionally, iridium has been considered an element of low mobility, but its behavior is still debated. Ir concentration in a soil affected by a catastrophic mining spill in 1998 that covered the soil with a layer of tailings offers the opportunity to analyse an exceptional Ir-bearing horizon 10 years after deposition. This has enabled comparisons with the values of past Ir-bearing horizons associated to impact-related mass-extinction events. Iridium concentration in the tailings (0.349 ppm) was 5-fold higher than the anomaly in the K-Pg at The Moody Creek Mine section (the highest values obtained from terrestrial sections). The oxidative weathering of the tailings caused the release of Ir and infiltration into the soil. Iridium distribution in depth indicates redistribution throughout the profile in relation to the change in the physico-chemical properties of the soil. With regard to the background concentration in the soil (0.056 ppm), anomalous values of Ir (0.129 ppm) can be detected to 11 cm below the layer of tailings. The correlation analysis between the Ir concentration and the main properties and constituents of the soils indicated a significant correlation with sulfur, iron, clay content, and pH. Selective extractions were made to study the forms in which Ir can be mobilized in the soil. The residual/insoluble fraction was >90% of the total Ir concentration in soil. Soluble-in-water concentration of Ir (1.5% of total) was detected in the uppermost 2-3 cm of the soil, which were directly affected by the leaching of acidic waters coming from the oxidation of the pyrite tailings. Iridium retention in the affected part of the soil reached 9% of the total Ir concentration; this retention could be related to the amorphous iron forms dissolved by the oxalic-oxalate extraction. However, according to our research, original Ir abundance could be secondarily modified, and then a direct analysis of the iridium values recorded in sediments could induce misinterpretations. The comparison between the actual example and the fossil record belonging to terrestrial settings, can be considered as a valuable approach, especially when Iridium data were used by researchers to interpret the impact-related mass-extinction events in the past.

Five parameters for the evaluation of the soil nonlinearity during the Ms8.0 Wenchuan Earthquake using the HVSR method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Yefei; Wen, Ruizhi; Yao, Xinxin; Ji, Kun

2017-08-01

The consideration of soil nonlinearity is important for the accurate estimation of the site response. To evaluate the soil nonlinearity during the 2008 Ms8.0 Wenchuan Earthquake, 33 strong-motion records obtained from the main shock and 890 records from 157 aftershocks were collected for this study. The horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) method was used to calculate five parameters: the ratio of predominant frequency (RFp), degree of nonlinearity (DNL), absolute degree of nonlinearity (ADNL), frequency of nonlinearity (fNL), and percentage of nonlinearity (PNL). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the soil nonlinearity level of 33 strong-motion stations and to investigate the characteristics, performance, and effective usage of these five parameters. Their correlations with the peak ground acceleration (PGA), peak ground velocity (PGV), average uppermost 30-m shear-wave velocity ( V S30), and maximum amplitude of HVSR ( A max) were investigated. The results showed that all five parameters correlate well with PGA and PGV. The DNL, ADNL, and PNL also show a good correlation with A max, which means that the degree of soil nonlinearity not only depends on the ground-motion amplitude (e.g., PGA and PGV) but also on the site condition. The fNL correlates with PGA and PGV but shows no correlation with either A max or V S30, implying that the frequency width affected by the soil nonlinearity predominantly depends on the ground-motion amplitude rather than the site condition. At 16 of the 33 stations analyzed in this study, the site response showed evident (i.e., strong and medium) nonlinearity during the main shock of the Wenchuan Earthquake, where the ground-motion level was almost beyond the threshold of PGA > 200 cm/s2 or PGV > 15 cm/s. The site response showed weak and no nonlinearity at the other 14 and 3 stations. These results also confirm that RFp, DNL, ADNL, and PNL are effective in identifying the soil nonlinearity behavior. The identification results vary for different parameters because each parameter has individual features. The performance of the PNL was better than that of DNL and ADNL in this case study. The thresholds of ADNL and PNL are proposed to be 2.0 and 7%, respectively.[Figure not available: see fulltext.

Effect of land-use change on soil organic carbon stocks in the Eastern Usambara Mountain (Tanzania)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirsten, Maximilian; Kaaya, Abel; Klinger, Thomas; Feger, Karl-Heinz

2014-05-01

A soil organic carbon (SOC) inventory, covering 10 sites with 5 different land-use systems (primary forest, secondary forest, tea plantation, home garden, and cropland) was conducted in the tropical monsoonal Eastern Usambara Mountains (EUM), NE Tanzania. At all sites the environmental factors such as climate and parent material, for soil formation (gneiss), as well as elevation and slope position are highly comparable. The evergreen submontane primary rain forest, which still exists in vast areas in the EUM and the well-known land-use history there provide nearly optimal conditions for the assessment of land-use change effects on soil properties, notably the SOC stocks. We collected horizon-wise samples from soil pit profiles. In addition, samples from fixed depth-intervals were taken from 8 augering points located systematically around each soil pit. The sampling scheme yielded a unique set of soil information (pedological, chemical, and physical) that favours a reliable assessment of SOC stocks and future analytical work on SOM quality and binding mechanisms. The investigated soils are characterized by high clay contents, which increase with depth. Soil pH varies between 3.5 and 5.4 over all land-use systems and horizons, higher pH values could be detected for the agricultural systems in the topsoil, the differences between agricultural and forest systems decrease in the subsoil. The potential cation exchange capacity is in most cases < 24 cmolc kg-1, furthermore the base saturation is always < 50 % in the subsoil. Thus, based on that analytical data all soils can be classified as Acrisols revealing the high comparability of the investigated sites. This is an excellent prerequisite for the 'false chronosequence' approach applied. Organic carbon (C) stocks in the soils from the investigated land-use systems cover a wide range between 17.1 and 24.2 kg m-2 (0-100 cm). Variability is even high in the subset of the 3 primary forests. Statistically significant differences between the forest and cropland systems occur in the uppermost depth interval 0-10 cm. Furthermore, the primary forests have higher, but not significantly different SOC stocks in the topsoil (0-40 cm) compared with the cropland systems. In all investigated soils the SOC stocks for the entire soil profiles (0-100 cm) are in a narrow range. This may give a hint on SOC relocation from the topsoil to the subsoil when forests were converted to cropland systems. Our results reveal that this land-use change has led to a shift in above- and belowground litter distribution and amount. Also slash and burn practises as well as burning of plant residues in arable farming are common in the EUM. Both phenomena may control SOC relocation as they are associated with a changed C input and/or the formation of C compounds that can be relocated in the profile. In all investigated soils high concentrations of dithionite- and oxalate- extractable iron and aluminum were analyzed. Hence, interaction of SOC with oxides formed by the two metals is here probably one of the main stabilization mechanisms of SOC. The relocation and stabilization processes of SOC are the key functions for the implementation of sustainable agriculture in the EUM, and the conducted study provide a suitable basis for our ongoing research in this region of the wet tropics of Africa.

An AOGCM based assessment of interseasonal variability in Pakistan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asmat, U.; Athar, H.; Nabeel, A.; Latif, M.

2018-01-01

The interseasonal variability of two basic climatic parameters (precipitation and temperature) is assessed, over vulnerable and data sparse region of Pakistan (23° to 37°N and 60° to 75°E), for two Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 3 (CMIP3) based Atmospheric-Oceanic General Circulation Model (AOGCM) versions: CM2.0 and CM2.1 by Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL), and two CMIP5 based AOGCM versions: CM2p1 and CM3.0. A recent historical 50-year period (1951-2000) is analyzed and compared with APHRODITE for precipitation and National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) re-analysis based gridded datasets for temperature for the following four seasons: DJF, MAM, JJA, and SON. The study area is divided into three regions: all Pakistan, northern Pakistan, and southern Pakistan. The interseasonal variability of the precipitation and the temperature are derived from all three (five) runs of CM2.0 (CM2.1) and from all ten (five) runs of CM 2p1 (CM3.0). The bias, root mean square error (RMSE), one-sigma standard deviation (SD) and correlation coefficient (CC) are used as assessing metrics. The following individual runs have positive CC with respect to APHRODITE at ≤1% Confidence Level (CL). On seasonal basis for CMIP5 based GFDL models during DJF: CM2p1R5 (for all Pakistan), CM2p1R5 (for northern Pakistan), and during MAM: CM2p1R5 (for southern Pakistan; this run has the lowest centered RMSE of 0.11 mm/day), whereas on annual basis: CM3.0R3 (for all Pakistan). However, out of these four runs, only CM2p1 (for southern Pakistan) has SD < SDobs (0.08 < 0.12 mm/day). There are 13 other runs for which the positive CC is at ≤5% CL, both relative to observed precipitation or temperature. Out of these 13 runs, only the average of runs of GFDL-CM2.1 in CMIP3 in JJA in southern Pakistan has SD < SDobs (0.56 < 0.59 °C) with a centered RMSE value of 0.65 °C. These characteristics of GFDL-CM2p1 runs are supported by their relatively better simulation of spatial distribution of 1000-850 hPa averaged layer wind patterns, relative to NCEP/NCAR 1000-850 hPa averaged wind patterns, over Pakistan, in respective seasons. A variance based bias adjustment when applied displays considerable interseasonal bias reduction both in precipitation and temperature in long term mean with no change in trend.

Rust and paint stripping from power transmission towers with a pulsed Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashidate, Shu-ichi; Obara, Minoru

1997-04-01

The possibility of the rust and paint removal from the power transmission towers was investigated with the pulsed Nd:YAG laser for the first time. The red rust and paint were successfully removed without damaging underlying Zn(zinc) galvanized steel substrates. The optimum irradiated laser fluence for the red rust was found from 0.3 J/cm2 to 0.4 J/cm2 for 9 ns short pulses, from 1.0 J/cm2 to 4.4 J/cm2 for 200 ns long pulses, respectively. For the paint stripping the optimum ranged from 3.3 J/cm2 to 4.4 J/cm2 with the pulse width of 200 ns.

SU-E-T-370: Measurement of Conical Cone Output Factors for the Varian Edge Linear Accelerator

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

Li, H; Kim, J; Gordon, J

Purpose: To quantify the impact of detector type, SSD/depth, and intermediate reference on conical cone output factor (OF) measurements for the Varian Edge linac. Methods: OF's for 4, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, and 17.5 mm diameter cones relative to 10cmx10cm field were measured for the 6X FFF and 10X FFF energies, with jaws set to 5cmx5cm. Measurements were performed with an Edge diode (0.8mmx0.8mmx0.03mm WxLxT), stereotatic diode SFD, photon diode, CC01 and pinpoint chambers (2mm diameter for both). 95cm SSD/5cm depth were used in a water tank. For the measurement with diodes, OF's were cross-referred to CC13 ion chambermore » measurements with 3cmx3cm field, as recommended, to help mitigate the energy variation in diode response with field size. Results were compared to the representative data from Varian measured with Edge detector. With SFD, OF's at 98.5cm SSD/1.5cm depth and 90cm SSD/10cm depth were also measured. Results: OF's measured with the Edge detector matched within 1.3% (max diff) with the representative data from Varian. For the SFD, OF's matched within 1.3% for the 4, 5 and 17.5 mm cones and within 3.7% for the other cones. OF's with photon diode were within 1.3% except for the 4 and 5 mm cones where they were 8.1% and 3.7%, respectively. OF's for the CC01 and pinpoint chamber deviated up to 36% and 44%, respectively for the 4 mm cone. OF's after intermediate reference with 3cmx3cm field changed by 3.7% for SFD, 0.8% for photon diode, and 0.6% for Edge detector. OF's at 98.5cm SSD/1.5cm depth were 10.8% higher than that at 95cm SSD/5cm depth, and OF's at 90cm SSD/1.5cm depth were 7.5% lower. Conclusion: OF's measured with the Edge detector appear to be reliable. CC01 and pinpoint chambers do not appear suitable for measuring the small cone OF's. SSD/depth affects OF measurements significantly.« less

Impact of heterogeneity-corrected dose calculation using a grid-based Boltzmann solver on breast and cervix cancer brachytherapy.

PubMed

Hofbauer, Julia; Kirisits, Christian; Resch, Alexandra; Xu, Yingjie; Sturdza, Alina; Pötter, Richard; Nesvacil, Nicole

2016-04-01

To analyze the impact of heterogeneity-corrected dose calculation on dosimetric quality parameters in gynecological and breast brachytherapy using Acuros, a grid-based Boltzmann equation solver (GBBS), and to evaluate the shielding effects of different cervix brachytherapy applicators. Calculations with TG-43 and Acuros were based on computed tomography (CT) retrospectively, for 10 cases of accelerated partial breast irradiation and 9 cervix cancer cases treated with tandem-ring applicators. Phantom CT-scans of different applicators (plastic and titanium) were acquired. For breast cases the V20Gyαβ3 to lung, the D0.1cm(3) , D1cm(3) , D2cm(3) to rib, the D0.1cm(3) , D1cm(3) , D10cm(3) to skin, and Dmax for all structures were reported. For cervix cases, the D0.1cm(3) , D2cm(3) to bladder, rectum and sigmoid, and the D50, D90, D98, V100 for the CTVHR were reported. For the phantom study, surrogates for target and organ at risk were created for a similar dose volume histogram (DVH) analysis. Absorbed dose and equivalent dose to 2 Gy fractionation (EQD2) were used for comparison. Calculations with TG-43 overestimated the dose for all dosimetric indices investigated. For breast, a decrease of ~8% was found for D10cm(3) to the skin and 5% for D2cm(3) to rib, resulting in a difference ~ -1.5 Gy EQD2 for overall treatment. Smaller effects were found for cervix cases with the plastic applicator, with up to -2% (-0.2 Gy EQD2) per fraction for organs at risk and -0.5% (-0.3 Gy EQD2) per fraction for CTVHR. The shielding effect of the titanium applicator resulted in a decrease of 2% for D2cm(3) to the organ at risk versus 0.7% for plastic. Lower doses were reported when calculating with Acuros compared to TG-43. Differences in dose parameters were larger in breast cases. A lower impact on clinical dose parameters was found for the cervix cases. Applicator material causes systematic shielding effects that can be taken into account.

A comprehensive, prospective study of penile dimensions in Chinese men of multiple ethnicities.

PubMed

Chen, X B; Li, R X; Yang, H N; Dai, J C

2014-01-01

This study aimed to establish a reference range of penile length and circumference of adult males in China, and to compare the penile dimensions of different ethnical backgrounds. To do this, penile length and circumference measurements were obtained from 5196 healthy males attending the Urology Counseling Clinic. The mean value of penile dimensions was a flaccid length of 6.5 ± 0.7 cm, a stretched length of 12.9 ± 1.2 cm and a flaccid circumference of 8.0 ± 0.8 cm. In the subgroup of 311 males, the mean erectile length was 12.9 ± 1.3 cm and the mean erectile circumference was 10.5 ± 0.9 cm, the mean flaccid and erectile glans lengths were 2.7 ± 0.3 and 3.4 ± 0.4 cm, respectively, and the mean flaccid and erectile glans diameters were 2.6 ± 0.2 and 3.4 ± 0.4 cm, respectively. We found that flaccid penile length and circumference varied among different ethnicities. This study established a reference range for penile dimensions, which will help when counseling patients worried about their penile size or seeking penis enlargement surgery. We also found that penile dimensions are different in different ethnicities, but further investigations are needed to validate this.

[Reconstruction of zygomatic-facial massive defect using modified bilobed flap after resection of skin cancer].

PubMed

Ling, Bin; Abass, Keremu; Hu, Mei; Yin, Xiaopeng; Hu, Lulu; Lin, Zhaoquan; Gong, Zhongcheng

2013-01-01

To investigate the clinical application of the modified bilobed flap in the reconstruction of zygomatic-facial massive defect after resection of skin cancer. Between August 2009 and October 2011, 15 patients with skin cancer in the zygomatic-facial region underwent defect reconstruction using modified bilobed flaps after surgical removal. There were 12 males and 3 females, aged 52-78 years (mean, 64.1 years). The disease duration was 1-14 months (mean, 4.6 months). Among the patients, there were 11 cases of basal cell carcinoma and 4 cases of squamous cell carcinoma; 1 patient had infection and the others had no skin ulceration; and tumor involved the skin layer in all patients. According to TNM staging, 13 cases were rated as T2N0M2 and 2 cases as T3N0M3. The defect size ranged from 4.0 cm x 2.5 cm to 6.5 cm x 4.0 cm after cancer resection. The modified bilobed flaps consisting of pre-auricular flap and post-auricular flap was used to repair the defect after cancer resection. The size ranged from 4.0 cm x 2.5 cm to 6.5 cm x 4.0 cm of the first flap and from 3.0 cm x 2.0 cm to 5.0 cm x 3.0 cm of the second flap. Partial incision dehiscence occurred in 1 case, and was cured after dressing change; the flaps survived and incision healed primarily in the other cases. Fourteen patients were followed up 12-24 months (mean, 18.7 months). No recurrence was found, and the patients had no obvious face asymmetry or skin scar with normal closure of eyelid and facial nerve function. At last follow-up, the results were very satisfactory in 5 cases, satisfactory in 7 cases, generally satisfactory in 1 case, and dissatisfactory in 1 case. The pre- and post-auricular bilobed flaps could be used to reconstruct the massive defects in the zygomatic-facial region after resection of skin cancer.

[Different sedimentation rates of X- and Y- sperm and the question of arbitrary sex determination].

PubMed

Bhattacharya, B C

1962-01-01

Separation of X and Y sperm using their sedimentation rates is repor ted. A colloidal medium (egg yolk and glycocoll solution) of a particular viscosity and density was developed for this purpose. Rabbit and bull sperm yeilded a 2-peaked curve when separated into sedimentatio n fractions, while rooster sperm gave a single-peak curve. Sedimentation rate of live and dead sperm were similar. 176 female rabbits were fertilized with various sedimentation fractions. 23.3% became pregnant, resulting in 122 young. The sex of the young was clearly related to the sedimentation rate of the sperm: the 2 uppermost fractions yielded 77.4% (P 0.01) male offspring, while the 2 lowest fractions gave 28.2% males (p 0.01) and the middle yielded 54.7% male young.

Next-generation seismic experiments: wide-angle, multi-azimuth, three-dimensional, full-waveform inversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morgan, Joanna; Warner, Michael; Bell, Rebecca; Ashley, Jack; Barnes, Danielle; Little, Rachel; Roele, Katarina; Jones, Charles

2013-12-01

Full-waveform inversion (FWI) is an advanced seismic imaging technique that has recently become computationally feasible in three dimensions, and that is being widely adopted and applied by the oil and gas industry. Here we explore the potential for 3-D FWI, when combined with appropriate marine seismic acquisition, to recover high-resolution high-fidelity P-wave velocity models for subsedimentary targets within the crystalline crust and uppermost mantle. We demonstrate that FWI is able to recover detailed 3-D structural information within a radially faulted dome using a field data set acquired with a standard 3-D petroleum-industry marine acquisition system. Acquiring low-frequency seismic data is important for successful FWI; we show that current acquisition techniques can routinely acquire field data from airguns at frequencies as low as 2 Hz, and that 1 Hz acquisition is likely to be achievable using ocean-bottom hydrophones in deep water. Using existing geological and geophysical models, we construct P-wave velocity models over three potential subsedimentary targets: the Soufrière Hills Volcano on Montserrat and its associated crustal magmatic system, the crust and uppermost mantle across the continent-ocean transition beneath the Campos Basin offshore Brazil, and the oceanic crust and uppermost mantle beneath the East Pacific Rise mid-ocean ridge. We use these models to generate realistic multi-azimuth 3-D synthetic seismic data, and attempt to invert these data to recover the original models. We explore resolution and accuracy, sensitivity to noise and acquisition geometry, ability to invert elastic data using acoustic inversion codes, and the trade-off between low frequencies and starting velocity model accuracy. We show that FWI applied to multi-azimuth, refracted, wide-angle, low-frequency data can resolve features in the deep crust and uppermost mantle on scales that are significantly better than can be achieved by any other geophysical technique, and that these results can be obtained using relatively small numbers (60-90) of ocean-bottom receivers combined with large numbers of airgun shots. We demonstrate that multi-azimuth 3-D FWI is robust in the presence of noise, that acoustic FWI can invert elastic data successfully, and that the typical errors to be expected in starting models derived using traveltimes will not be problematic for FWI given appropriately designed acquisition. FWI is a rapidly maturing technology; its transfer from the petroleum sector to tackle a much broader range of targets now appears to be entirely achievable.

40 CFR 265.90 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... from the facility via the uppermost aquifer to water supply wells (domestic, industrial, or.... This demonstration must be certified by a qualified geologist or geotechnical engineer and must... geologist or geotechnical engineer, which satisfies the requirements of § 265.93(d)(3), for an alternate...

40 CFR 265.90 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... from the facility via the uppermost aquifer to water supply wells (domestic, industrial, or.... This demonstration must be certified by a qualified geologist or geotechnical engineer and must... geologist or geotechnical engineer, which satisfies the requirements of § 265.93(d)(3), for an alternate...

Assessment of haemorrhoidal artery network using colour duplex imaging and clinical implications

PubMed Central

Ratto, C; Parello, A; Donisi, L; Litta, F; Zaccone, G; Doglietto, G B

2012-01-01

Background Dearterialization should reduce arterial overflow to haemorrhoids. The purpose of this study was to assess the topography of haemorrhoidal arteries. Methods Fifty patients with haemorrhoidal disease were studied. Using endorectal ultrasonography, six sectors were identified within the lower rectal circumference. Starting from the highest level (6 cm above the anorectal junction), the same procedure was repeated every 1 cm until the lowest level was reached (1 cm above the anorectal junction). Colour duplex imaging examinations identified haemorrhoidal arteries related to the rectal wall layers, and the arterial depth was calculated. Results Haemorrhoidal arteries were detected in 64·3, 66·0, 66·0, 98·3, 99·3 and 99·7 per cent of the sectors 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 cm above the anorectal junction respectively (P < 0·001). Most of the haemorrhoidal arteries were external to the rectal wall at 6 and 5 cm (97·9 and 90·9 per cent), intramuscular at 4 cm (55·0 per cent), and within the submucosa at 3, 2 and 1 cm above the anorectal junction (67·1, 96·6 and 100 per cent) (P < 0·001). The mean arterial depth decreased significantly from 8·3 mm at 6 cm to 1·9 mm at 1 cm above the anorectal junction (P < 0·001). Conclusion This study demonstrated that the vast majority of haemorrhoidal arteries lie within the rectal submucosa at the lowest 2 cm above the anorectal junction. This should therefore be the best site for performing haemorrhoidal dearterialization. PMID:22021046

Nighttime water absorption by a bare loess soil in a coastal desert

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ninari, N.; Berliner, P. R.

2003-04-01

The role of dew in arid and semi-arid ecosystems is considered to be of great importance. It can serve as a water source for the bacteria of biological crust, for plants and for small insects. The Negev Desert is a semiarid region characterized by winter rainfall with a very large inter-annual variability. Reports on measurements carried out in this area mention that up to 180 nights a year with dew were registered by a conventional Hiltner Dew Balance, with intensities that ranged from 0.1 to 0.2 mm per night (yielding a total of 15 mm per year, which is more than 10% of the total rainfall). The Hiltner dew balance is based on the continuous weighing of an artificial condensation plate that has a completely different energy balance from that of the soil surface above which it is installed. The Hiltner dew balance could, therefore, be considered as a ``potential dew" gauge, whose results are probably mainly correlated to atmospheric conditions. The prime objective of this work was, therefore, to quantify the amounts of dew deposition on the soil surface, and to compare these amounts to those measured by the Hiltner balance. Measurements were carried out at the Wadi Mashash Experimental Farm in the Negev. To estimate deposition and evaporation of dew, a micro-lysimeter (diameter: 20 cm; soil depth: 50 cm) with an undisturbed soil sample was installed flush with the soil surface. The following were continuously monitored: micro-lysimeter weight, incoming and reflected short wave radiation, net radiation, dry and wet bulb temperatures, wind speed, and soil heat flux. A Hiltner Dew Balance was placed close by as a reference to compare with previous measurements. Throughout the ``dew period" (spring, summer and fall), and at random intervals, soil samples were taken hourly during the whole night. The uppermost 10 cm of the soil was divided into 1 cm intervals, and the soil moisture content was measured (oven dry). During the above-mentioned night campaigns, no dew deposition could be visually detected on the soil surface. A mass gain was however registered with the ML and an increase in moisture content was observed. The Hiltner balance clearly underestimated dew deposition amounts. These results indicate that although no visual signs of dew deposition could be detected, moisture did penetrate into the soil.

Discrimination between neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions in cirrhotic liver using contrast-enhanced ultrasound

PubMed Central

Xu, H-X; Lu, M-D; Liu, L-N; Zhang, Y-F; Guo, L-H; Xu, J-M; Liu, C

2012-01-01

Objectives To assess the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from non-neoplastic lesion in cirrhotic liver in comparison with baseline ultrasound. Methods A total of 147 nodules (diameter ≤5.0 cm) in 133 cirrhotic patients (mean age±standard deviation: 52±13 years, range 20–82 years; gender: 111 males and 22 females) were examined with CEUS. There were 116 HCCs, 26 macroregenerative nodules and 5 high-grade dysplastic nodules. CEUS was performed with a real-time contrast-specific mode and a sulphur hexafluoride-filled microbubble contrast agent. Results Hypervascularity was observed in 94.8% (110/116) HCCs, 3.8% (1/26) macroregenerative nodules and 60.0% (3/5) high-grade dysplastic nodules during arterial phase on CEUS. Detection rates of typical vascular pattern (i.e. hypervascularity during arterial phase and subsequent washout) in HCCs with a diameter of ≤2.0 cm, 2.1–3.0 cm and 3.1–5.0 cm were 69.2% (27/39), 97.1% (33/34) and 100.0% (43/43), respectively. CEUS significantly improved the sensitivity [88.8% (103/116) vs 37.1% (43/116), p<0.001], negative predictive value [70.5% (31/44) vs 31.5% (29/92), p<0.001], and accuracy [91.2% (134/147) vs 49.0% (72/147), p<0.001] in differentiating HCCs from non-neoplastic lesions when compared with baseline ultrasound. However, the sensitivity and accuracy of CEUS for HCCs ≤2.0 cm in diameter were significantly lower than those for HCCs of 2.1–3.0 cm and 3.1–5.0 cm in diameter. Conclusions CEUS improves diagnostic performance in differentiating HCCs from non-neoplastic nodules in cirrhotic patients compared with baseline ultrasound. Diagnosis of HCCs ≤2.0 cm diameter by CEUS is still a clinical concern, and thus needs further investigation. PMID:22553290

Algorithm optimization for multitined radiofrequency ablation: comparative study in ex vivo and in vivo bovine liver.

PubMed

Appelbaum, Liat; Sosna, Jacob; Pearson, Robert; Perez, Sarah; Nissenbaum, Yizhak; Mertyna, Pawel; Libson, Eugene; Goldberg, S Nahum

2010-02-01

To prospectively optimize multistep algorithms for largest available multitined radiofrequency (RF) electrode system in ex vivo and in vivo tissues, to determine best energy parameters to achieve large predictable target sizes of coagulation, and to compare these algorithms with manufacturer's recommended algorithms. Institutional animal care and use committee approval was obtained for the in vivo portion of this study. Ablation (n = 473) was performed in ex vivo bovine liver; final tine extension was 5-7 cm. Variables in stepped-deployment RF algorithm were interrogated and included initial current ramping to 105 degrees C (1 degrees C/0.5-5.0 sec), the number of sequential tine extensions (2-7 cm), and duration of application (4-12 minutes) for final two to three tine extensions. Optimal parameters to achieve 5-7 cm of coagulation were compared with recommended algorithms. Optimal settings for 5- and 6-cm final tine extensions were confirmed in in vivo perfused bovine liver (n = 14). Multivariate analysis of variance and/or paired t tests were used. Mean RF ablation zones of 5.1 cm +/- 0.2 (standard deviation), 6.3 cm +/- 0.4, and 7 cm +/- 0.3 were achieved with 5-, 6-, and 7-cm final tine extensions in a mean of 19.5 min +/- 0.5, 27.9 min +/- 6, and 37.1 min +/- 2.3, respectively, at optimal settings. With these algorithms, size of ablation at 6- and 7-cm tine extension significantly increased from mean of 5.4 cm +/- 0.4 and 6.1 cm +/- 0.6 (manufacturer's algorithms) (P <.05, both comparisons); two recommended tine extensions were eliminated. In vivo confirmation produced mean diameter in specified time: 5.5 cm +/- 0.4 in 18.5 min +/- 0.5 (5-cm extensions) and 5.7 cm +/- 0.2 in 21.2 min +/- 0.6 (6-cm extensions). Large zones of coagulation of 5-7 cm can be created with optimized RF algorithms that help reduce number of tine extensions compared with manufacturer's recommendations. Such algorithms are likely to facilitate the utility of these devices for RF ablation of focal tumors in clinical practice. (c) RSNA, 2010.

Comparison of 18F SPECT with PET in myocardial imaging: a realistic thorax-cardiac phantom study.

PubMed

Knešaurek, Karin; Machac, Josef

2006-10-31

Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with fluorine-18 (18F) Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and flow tracer such as Rubidium-82 (82Rb) is an established method for evaluating an ischemic but viable myocardium. However, the high cost of PET imaging restricts its wider clinical use. Therefore, less expensive 18F FDG single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging has been considered as an alternative to 18F FDG PET imaging. The purpose of the work is to compare SPECT with PET in myocardial perfusion/viability imaging. A nonuniform RH-2 thorax-heart phantom was used in the SPECT and PET acquisitions. Three inserts, 3 cm, 2 cm and 1 cm in diameter, were placed in the left ventricular (LV) wall to simulate infarcts. The phantom acquisition was performed sequentially with 7.4 MBq of 18F and 22.2 MBq of Technetium-99m (99mTc) in the SPECT study and with 7.4 MBq of 18F and 370 MBq of 82Rb in the PET study. SPECT and PET data were processed using standard reconstruction software provided by vendors. Circumferential profiles of the short-axis slices, the contrast and viability of the inserts were used to evaluate the SPECT and PET images. The contrast for 3 cm, 2 cm and 1 cm inserts were for 18F PET data, 1.0 +/- 0.01, 0.67 +/- 0.02 and 0.25 +/- 0.01, respectively. For 82Rb PET data, the corresponding contrast values were 0.61 +/- 0.02, 0.37 +/- 0.02 and 0.19 +/- 0.01, respectively. For 18F SPECT the contrast values were, 0.31 +/- 0.03 and 0.20 +/- 0.05 for 3 cm and 2 cm inserts, respectively. For 99mTc SPECT the contrast values were, 0.63 +/- 0.04 and 0.24 +/- 0.05 for 3 cm and 2 cm inserts respectively. In SPECT, the 1 cm insert was not detectable. In the SPECT study, all three inserts were falsely diagnosed as "viable", while in the PET study, only the 1 cm insert was diagnosed falsely "viable". For smaller defects the 99mTc/18F SPECT imaging cannot entirely replace the more expensive 82Rb/18F PET for myocardial perfusion/viability imaging, due to poorer image spatial resolution and poorer defect contrast.

Synchrotron Spectroscopy and Torsional Structure of the Csh-Bending and CH3-ROCKING Bands of Methyl Mercaptan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lees, Ronald M.; Xu, Li-Hong; Billinghurst, Brant E.

2016-06-01

The Fourier transform spectra of the CSH-bending and CH3-rocking infrared bands of CH3SH have been investigated at 0.001 cm-1 resolution employing synchrotron radiation at the Canadian Light Source in Saskatoon. The relative band strengths and structures are remarkably different from those for the analogous CH3OH relative, with the CSH bend being very weak and both the in-plane and out-of-plane CH3 rocks being strong with comparable intensities. The CSH bend, centered at 801.5 cm-1, has parallel a-type character with no detectable b-type component. The out-of-plane CH3 rock at 957.0 cm-1 is a purely c-type perpendicular band, whereas the in-plane rock around 1074 cm-1 is of mixed a/b character. The K-reduced vt = 0 sub-state origins for the CSH bend follow the normal oscillatory torsional pattern as a function of K with an amplitude of 0.362 cm-1, as compared to 0.653 cm-1 for the ground state and 0.801 cm-1 for the C-S stretching mode. The torsional energy curves for the out-of-plane rock are also well-behaved but are inverted, with an amplitude of 1.33 cm-1. In contrast, the sub-state origins for the in-plane rock do not display a clear oscillatory structure but are scattered over a range of about 2 cm-1, with indications of some significant perturbations. The assignments for the three bands all extend up to about K = 10 and are well-determined from GSCD relations, particularly for the a/b in-plane rock for which ΔK = 0, +1 and -1 transitions are all observed.

Percutaneous Renal Cryoablation: Short-Axis Ice-Ball Margin as a Predictor of Outcome.

PubMed

Ge, Benjamin H; Guzzo, Thomas J; Nadolski, Gregory J; Soulen, Michael C; Clark, Timothy W I; Malkowicz, Stanley B; Wein, Alan J; Hunt, Stephen J; Stavropoulos, S William

2016-03-01

To determine if CT characteristics of intraprocedural ice balls correlate with outcomes after cryoablation. A retrospective review was performed on 63 consecutive patients treated with renal cryoablation. Preprocedural and intraprocedural images were used to identify the size and location of renal tumors and ice balls as well as the tumor coverage and ice-ball margins. Review of follow-up imaging (1 mo and then 3-6-mo intervals) distinguished successful ablations from cases of residual tumor. Patients who underwent successful ablation (n = 50; 79%) had a mean tumor diameter of 2.5 cm (range, 0.9-4.3 cm) and mean ice-ball margin of 0.4 cm (range, 0.2-1.2 cm). Patients with residual tumor (n = 13; 21%) had a mean tumor diameter of 3.8 cm (range, 1.8-4.5 cm) and mean ice-ball margin of -0.4 cm (range, -0.9 to 0.4 cm). Residual and undertreated tumors were larger and had smaller ice-ball margins than successfully treated tumors (P < .01). Ice-ball diameters were significantly smaller after image reformatting (P < .01). Ice-ball margins of 0.15 cm had 90% sensitivity, 92% specificity, and 98% positive predictive value for successful ablation. Success was independent of tumor location or number of cryoprobes. Ice-ball margin and real-time intraprocedural reformatting could be helpful in predicting renal cryoablation outcomes. Although a 0.5-cm margin is preferred, a well-centered ice ball with a short-axis margin greater than 0.15 cm strongly correlated with successful ablation. Copyright © 2016 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CH3Cl, CH2Cl2, CHCl3, and CCl4: Infrared spectra, radiative efficiencies, and global warming potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wallington, Timothy J.; Pivesso, Bruno Pasquini; Lira, Alane Moura; Anderson, James E.; Nielsen, Claus Jørgen; Andersen, Niels Højmark; Hodnebrog, Øivind

2016-05-01

Infrared spectra for the title compounds were measured experimentally in 700 Torr of air at 295 K and systematically modeled in B3LYP, M06-2X and MP2 calculations employing various basis sets. Calibrated infrared spectra over the wavenumber range 600-3500 cm-1 are reported and combined with literature data to provide spectra for use in experimental studies and radiative transfer calculations. Integrated absorption cross sections are (units of cm-1 molecule-1): CH3Cl, 660-780 cm-1, (3.89±0.19)×10-18; CH2Cl2, 650-800 cm-1, (2.16±0.11)×10-17; CHCl3, 720-810 cm-1, (4.08±0.20)×10-17; and CCl4, 730-825 cm-1, (6.30±0.31)×10-17. CH3Cl, CH2Cl2, CHCl3, and CCl4 have radiative efficiencies of 0.004, 0.028, 0.070, and 0.174 W m-2 ppb-1 and global warming potentials (100 year horizon) of 5, 8, 15, and 1775, respectively. Quantum chemistry calculations generally predict larger band intensities than the experimental values. The best agreement with experiments is obtained in MP2(Full) calculations employing basis sets of at least triple-zeta quality augmented by diffuse functions. The B3LYP functional is found ill-suited for calculating vibrational frequencies and infrared intensities of halocarbons.

Low resistance ohmic contacts to n-GaN and n-AlGaN using NiAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ingerly, D. B.; Chen, Y.; William, R. S.; Takeuchi, T.; Chang, Y. A.

2000-07-01

The intermetallic compound NiAl (50:50 at. %) has been shown to be a low-resistance ohmic contact to n-GaN and n-AlGaN. NiAl contacts on n-GaN (n=2.5×1017cm-3) had a specific contact resistance of 9.4×10-6 Ω cm2 upon annealing at 850 °C for 5 min. NiAl contacts annealed at 900 °C for 5 min in n-Al0.12Ga0.88N (n=2.4×1018cm-3) and n-Al0.18Ga0.82N (n=2.7×1018cm-3) had specific contact resistances of 2.1×10-5 Ω cm2 and 4.7×10-5 Ω cm2, respectively. Additionally, these contacts were subjected to long-term annealing at 600 °C for 100 h. On n-GaN, the contact specific contact resistance degraded from 9.4×10-6 Ω cm2 to 5.3×10-5 Ω cm2 after the long-term anneal. Contacts to n-Al0.18Ga0.82N showed only slight degradation with a change in contact resistance, from 4.7×10-5 Ω cm2 to 9.2×10-5 Ω cm2. These results demonstrate the NiAl has great promise as a stable, low-resistance contact, particularly to n-AlGaN used in high-temperature applications.

The uppermost mantle shear wave velocity structure of eastern Africa from Rayleigh wave tomography: constraints on rift evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Donnell, J. P.; Adams, A.; Nyblade, A. A.; Mulibo, G. D.; Tugume, F.

2013-08-01

An expanded model of the 3-D shear wave velocity structure of the uppermost mantle beneath eastern Africa has been developed using earthquakes recorded by the AfricaArray East African Seismic Experiment in conjunction with data from permanent stations and previously deployed temporary stations. The combined data set comprises 331 earthquakes recorded on a total of 95 seismic stations spanning Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia and Malawi. In this study, data from 149 earthquakes were used to determine fundamental-mode Rayleigh wave phase velocities at periods ranging from 20 to 182 s using the two-plane wave method, and then combined with the similarly processed published measurements and inverted for a 3-D shear wave velocity model of the uppermost mantle. New features in the model include (1) a low-velocity region in western Zambia, (2) a high-velocity region in eastern Zambia, (3) a low-velocity region in eastern Tanzania and (4) low-velocity regions beneath the Lake Malawi rift. When considered in conjunction with mapped seismicity, these results support a secondary western rift branch striking southwestwards from Lake Tanganyika, likely exploiting the relatively weak lithosphere of the southern Kibaran Belt between the Bangweulu Block and the Congo Craton. We estimate a lithospheric thickness of ˜150-200 km for the substantial fast shear wave anomaly imaged in eastern Zambia, which may be a southward subsurface extension of the Bangweulu Block. The low-velocity region in eastern Tanzania suggests that the eastern rift branch trends southeastwards offshore eastern Tanzania coincident with the purported location of the northern margin of the proposed Ruvuma microplate. Pronounced velocity lows along the Lake Malawi rift are found beneath the northern and southern ends of the lake, but not beneath the central portion of the lake.

Pn tomography with Moho depth correction from eastern Europe to western China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lü, Yan; Ni, Sidao; Chen, Ling; Chen, Qi-Fu

2017-02-01

We proposed a modified Pn velocity and anisotropy tomography method by considering the Moho depth variations using the Crust 1.0 model and obtained high-resolution images of the uppermost mantle Pn velocity and anisotropy structure from eastern Europe to western China. The tomography results indicate that the average Pn velocities are approximately 8.0 and 8.1 km/s under the western and eastern parts of the study area, respectively, with maximum velocity perturbations of 3%-4%. We observed high Pn velocities under the Adriatic Sea, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, Arabian Plate, Indian Plate, and in the Tarim and Sichuan Basins but low Pn velocities under the Apennine Peninsula, Dead Sea fault zone, Anatolia, Caucasus, Iranian Plateau, Hindu Kush, and in the Yunnan and Myanmar regions. Generally, regions with stable structures and low lithospheric temperatures exhibit high Pn velocities. Low Pn velocities provide evidence for the upwelling of hot material, which is associated with plate subduction and continental collision processes. Our Pn velocity and anisotropy imaging results indicate that the Adriatic microplate dives to the east and west, the hot material upwelling caused by subduction beneath the Tibetan Plateau is not as significant as that in the Caucasus and Myanmar regions, the lithosphere exhibits coupled rotational movement around the Eastern Himalayan syntaxes, and the areas to the north and south of 26°N in the Yunnan region are affected by different geodynamic processes. Our newly captured images of the uppermost mantle velocity and anisotropy structure provide further information about continental collision processes and associated dynamic mechanisms.

Hydrogeologic framework of the uppermost principal aquifer systems in the Williston and Powder River structural basins, United States and Canada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thamke, Joanna N.; LeCain, Gary D.; Ryter, Derek W.; Sando, Roy; Long, Andrew J.

2014-01-01

Regionally, water in the lower Tertiary and Upper Cretaceous aquifer systems flows in a northerly or northeasterly direction from the Powder River structural basin to the Williston structural basin. Groundwater flow in the Williston structural basin generally is easterly or northeasterly. Flow in the uppermost hydrogeologic units generally is more local and controlled by topography where unglaciated in the Williston structural basin than is flow in the glaciated part and in underlying aquifers. Groundwater flow in the Powder River structural basin generally is northerly with local variations greatest in the uppermost aquifers. Groundwater is confined, and flow is regional in the underlying aquifers.

The ν 1Band System of H-CC-CN (Cyanoacetylene)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winther, F.; Klee, S.; Mellau, G.; Naı̈m, S.; Mbosei, L.; Fayt, A.

1996-02-01

The ν1band system of cyanoacetylene (H-CC-CN) has been observed with an effective resolution of 0.006 cm-1. ν1= 3327.37085(3) cm-1,B1= 0.15149762(2) cm-1,D1= 1.8065(3) × 10-8cm-1. Several hot bands from the statesv5= 1,v6= 1,v7= 1, 2 (l= 0 and 2), 3 (l= 1 and 3), and 4 (l= 0 and 2),v6=v7= 1 (l= 0 and 2), andv6= 1 andv7= 2 (l= 3) have also been observed and analyzed. Many bands show strong local perturbations due to interactions with states which are combinations of the modes 4, 5, 6, and 7. These perturbing states are also described quantitatively, and rovibrational constants are given.

Stress evolution and associated microstructure during transient creep of olivine at 1000-1200 °C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thieme, M.; Demouchy, S.; Mainprice, D.; Barou, F.; Cordier, P.

2018-05-01

We study the mechanical response and correlated microstructure of axial deformed fine-grained olivine aggregates as a function of incremental finite strains. Deformation experiments were conducted in uniaxial compression in an internally heated gas-medium deformation apparatus at temperatures of 1000 and 1200 °C, at strain rates of 10-6 s-1 to 10-5 s-1 and at confining pressure of 300 MPa. Sample volumes are around 1.2 cm3. Finite strains range from 0.1 to 8.6% and corresponding maximal (final) differential stresses range from 80 to 1073 MPa for deformation at 1000 °C and from 71 to 322 MPa for deformation at 1200 °C. At 1200 °C, samples approach steady state deformation after about 8% of strain. At 1000 °C, significant strain hardening leads to stresses exceeding the confining pressure by a factor of 3.5 with brittle deformation after 3% of strain. Deformed samples were characterized by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). EBSD maps with step sizes as low as 50 nm were acquired without introducing analytical artifacts for the first time. The grain size of deformed samples ranges from 2.1 to 2.6 μm. Despite clear strain hardening, texture or microstructure do not change as a function of stress or finite strain. This observation is supported by a constant texture strength (J-index) and symmetry (BA-index), constant grain shape and aspect ratio, constant density of geometrically necessary dislocations, grain orientation spread, and constant subgrain boundary spacing and misorientation in between samples. TEM shows that all samples exhibit unambiguous dislocation activity but with a highly heterogeneous dislocation distribution. Olivine grains display evidence of [1 0 0] and [0 0 1] slip activity, but there is no evidence of interaction between the dislocations from the different slip systems. Several observations of grain boundaries acting as dislocation sources have been found. We find no confirmation of increasing dislocation densities as the cause for strain hardening during transient creep. This suggests other, yet not fully understood mechanisms affecting the strength of deformed olivine. These mechanisms could possibly involve grain boundaries. Such mechanisms are relevant for the deformation of uppermost mantle rocks, where the Si diffusion rate is too slow and dislocation glide must be accommodated in another way to fulfill the von Mises criterion.

Structural and magnetically enhanced ferroelectric properties of Nd3+ and Fe3+ substituted Pb(Zr0.45Ti0.55)O3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaur, Randeep; Singh, Anupinder

2018-05-01

The influence of Nd3+ and Fe3+ substitution on Pb(Zr0.45Ti0.55)O3 composition prepared via solid state reaction route have been studied. The structural evolution was investigated using an X-ray diffraction (XRD). Non perovskite Pb2Ti2O7, ZrO2 and PbO phases were observed along with the rhombohedral phase. The SEM micrograph shows the surface morphology of the samples. The density of the sample was calculated by using Archimedes principle and found to be 8.45g/cm3. The magnetic data depicts the presence of both the ferromagnetic as well as antiferromagnetic character in the solid solution. In ferroelectric studies, the values of remnant polarization (Pr) and coercive field (Ec) enhanced from 2.60 μC/cm2 - 3.44 µC/cm2 and 15.82kV/cm - 22.91kV/cm respectively.

Freestanding mesoporous VN/CNT hybrid electrodes for flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors.

PubMed

Xiao, Xu; Peng, Xiang; Jin, Huanyu; Li, Tianqi; Zhang, Chengcheng; Gao, Biao; Hu, Bin; Huo, Kaifu; Zhou, Jun

2013-09-25

High-performance all-solid-state supercapacitors (SCs) are fabricated based on thin, lightweight, and flexible freestanding MVNN/CNT hybrid electrodes. The device shows a high volume capacitance of 7.9 F/cm(3) , volume energy and power density of 0.54 mWh/cm(3) and 0.4 W/cm(3) at a current density of 0.025 A/cm(3) . By being highly flexible, environmentally friendly, and easily connectable in series and parallel, the all-solid-state SCs promise potential applications in portable/wearable electronics. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Effect of lung and target density on small-field dose coverage and PTV definition

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

Higgins, Patrick D., E-mail: higgi010@umn.edu; Ehler, Eric D.; Cho, Lawrence C.

We have studied the effect of target and lung density on block margin for small stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) targets. A phantom (50 × 50 × 50 cm{sup 3}) was created in the Pinnacle (V9.2) planning system with a 23-cm diameter lung region of interest insert. Diameter targets of 1.6, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 cm were placed in the lung region of interest and centered at a physical depth of 15 cm. Target densities evaluated were 0.1 to 1.0 g/cm{sup 3}, whereas the surrounding lung density was varied between 0.05 and 0.6 g/cm{sup 3}. A dose of 100 cGy wasmore » delivered to the isocenter via a single 6-MV field, and the ratio of the average dose to points defining the lateral edges of the target to the isocenter dose was recorded for each combination. Field margins were varied from none to 1.5 cm in 0.25-cm steps. Data obtained in the phantom study were used to predict planning treatment volume (PTV) margins that would match the clinical PTV and isodose prescription for a clinical set of 39 SBRT cases. The average internal target volume (ITV) density was 0.73 ± 0.17, average local lung density was 0.33 ± 0.16, and average ITV diameter was 2.16 ± 0.8 cm. The phantom results initially underpredicted PTV margins by 0.35 cm. With this offset included in the model, the ratio of predicted-to-clinical PTVs was 1.05 ± 0.32. For a given target and lung density, it was found that treatment margin was insensitive to target diameter, except for the smallest (1.6-cm diameter) target, for which the treatment margin was more sensitive to density changes than the larger targets. We have developed a graphical relationship for block margin as a function of target and lung density, which should save time in the planning phase by shortening the design of PTV margins that can satisfy Radiation Therapy Oncology Group mandated treatment volume ratios.« less

{sup 210}Pb chronology of sequences affected by burrow excavation and infilling: Examples from shallow marine carbonate sediment sequences, Holocene South Florida and Caicos Platform, British West Indies

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

Tedesco, L.P.; Aller, R.C.

A variety of sedimentological criteria and direct field observations indicate that deposits of shallow carbonate platforms and mud banks are extensively transformed during megafaunal bioturbation by deep-burrowing crustaceans. {sup 210}Pb dating of surficial sediment and burrow fills dissected from the upper 1--3 m of sediments at four sites on the Caicos Platform and in South Florida corroborates sedimentologic descriptions of rapid biogenic alteration of entire facies. {sup 210}Pb distributions from the study sites show that at least some infill is predominantly surficial sediment. Assuming that all identifiable deep burrow fills containing excess {sup 210}Pb derive from the uppermost 0--5 cmmore » interval, an estimate of facies replacement by nonlocal transport can be made based on measured excess {sup 210}Pb values of fill and the corresponding total discernible fill volume in cores. Calculations indicate that at the sites studied, burrow excavation and infilling can completely transform the upper 1--2 m, and possibly 3.5 m, of deposits in 100--600 yr. More rapid transformation of deposits is required if fill is derived from below 5 cm. Biogenic transformation rates are sufficiently fast compared to net sedimentation that burrow infills, not primarily physical deposition, determine the composition, porosity, fabric, and texture of the preserved facies. The {sup 210}Pb profiles in the deepest regions of deposits in the present cases are further complicated by basal enrichments of {sup 226}Ra, which apparently diffuses upwards from Pleistocene calcrete surfaces into overlying Holocene sediment. This diffusion requires careful documentation of supported {sup 210}Pb near this contact, but also offers the potential for an additional transport tracer internal to the deposits.« less

Establishment of a Site-Specific Tropospheric Model Based on Ground Meteorological Parameters over the China Region.

PubMed

Zhou, Chongchong; Peng, Bibo; Li, Wei; Zhong, Shiming; Ou, Jikun; Chen, Runjing; Zhao, Xinglong

2017-07-27

China is a country of vast territory with complicated geographical environment and climate conditions. With the rapid progress of the Chinese BeiDou satellite navigation system (BDS); more accurate tropospheric models must be applied to improve the accuracy of navigation and positioning. Based on the formula of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models; this study develops two single-site tropospheric models (named SAAS_S and CH_S models) for the Chinese region using radiosonde data from 2005 to 2012. We assess the two single-site tropospheric models with radiosonde data for 2013 and zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) data from four International GNSS Service (IGS) stations and compare them to the results of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models. The experimental results show that: the mean accuracy of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.19 cm; RMS: 3.19 cm) at all radiosonde stations is superior to those of the Saastamoinen (bias: 0.62 cm; RMS: 3.62 cm) and CH_S (bias: -0.05 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. In most Chinese regions; the RMS values of the SAAS_S and CH_S models are about 0.51~2.12 cm smaller than those of their corresponding source models. The SAAS_S model exhibits a clear improvement in the accuracy over the Saastamoinen model in low latitude regions. When the SAAS_S model is replaced by the SAAS model in the positioning of GNSS; the mean accuracy of vertical direction in the China region can be improved by 1.12~1.55 cm and the accuracy of vertical direction in low latitude areas can be improved by 1.33~7.63 cm. The residuals of the SAAS_S model are closer to a normal distribution compared to those of the Saastamoinen model. Single-site tropospheric models based on the short period of the most recent data (for example 2 years) can also achieve a satisfactory accuracy. The average performance of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.83 cm; RMS: 3.24 cm) at four IGS stations is superior to that of the Saastamoinen (bias: -0.86 cm; RMS: 3.59 cm) and CH_S (bias: 0.45 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models.

Establishment of a Site-Specific Tropospheric Model Based on Ground Meteorological Parameters over the China Region

PubMed Central

Zhou, Chongchong; Peng, Bibo; Li, Wei; Zhong, Shiming; Ou, Jikun; Chen, Runjing; Zhao, Xinglong

2017-01-01

China is a country of vast territory with complicated geographical environment and climate conditions. With the rapid progress of the Chinese BeiDou satellite navigation system (BDS); more accurate tropospheric models must be applied to improve the accuracy of navigation and positioning. Based on the formula of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models; this study develops two single-site tropospheric models (named SAAS_S and CH_S models) for the Chinese region using radiosonde data from 2005 to 2012. We assess the two single-site tropospheric models with radiosonde data for 2013 and zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) data from four International GNSS Service (IGS) stations and compare them to the results of the Saastamoinen and Callahan models. The experimental results show that: the mean accuracy of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.19 cm; RMS: 3.19 cm) at all radiosonde stations is superior to those of the Saastamoinen (bias: 0.62 cm; RMS: 3.62 cm) and CH_S (bias: −0.05 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. In most Chinese regions; the RMS values of the SAAS_S and CH_S models are about 0.51~2.12 cm smaller than those of their corresponding source models. The SAAS_S model exhibits a clear improvement in the accuracy over the Saastamoinen model in low latitude regions. When the SAAS_S model is replaced by the SAAS model in the positioning of GNSS; the mean accuracy of vertical direction in the China region can be improved by 1.12~1.55 cm and the accuracy of vertical direction in low latitude areas can be improved by 1.33~7.63 cm. The residuals of the SAAS_S model are closer to a normal distribution compared to those of the Saastamoinen model. Single-site tropospheric models based on the short period of the most recent data (for example 2 years) can also achieve a satisfactory accuracy. The average performance of the SAAS_S model (bias: 0.83 cm; RMS: 3.24 cm) at four IGS stations is superior to that of the Saastamoinen (bias: −0.86 cm; RMS: 3.59 cm) and CH_S (bias: 0.45 cm; RMS: 3.38 cm) models. PMID:28749429

Method for producing metal oxide aerogels having densities less than 0.02 g/cc

DOEpatents

Tillotson, Thomas M.; Poco, John F.; Hrubesh, Lawrence W.; Thomas, Ian M.

1994-01-01

A two-step method is described for making transparent aerogels which have a density of less than 0.003 g/cm.sup.3 to those with a density of more than 0.8 g/cm.sup.3, by a sol/gel process and supercritical extraction. Condensed metal oxide intermediate made with purified reagents can be diluted to produce stable aerogels with a density of less than 0.02 g/cm.sup.3. High temperature, direct supercritical extraction of the liquid phase of the gel produces hydrophobic aerogels which are stable at atmospheric moisture conditions. Monolithic, homogeneous silica aerogels with a density of less than 0.02 to higher than 0.8 g/cm.sup.3, with high thermal insulation capacity, improved mechanical strength and good optical transparency, are described.

Volumetric magnetic resonance imaging evidence of bilateral hippocampal atrophy in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy.

PubMed

Quigg, M; Bertram, E H; Jackson, T; Laws, E

1997-05-01

We measured absolute volumes and volume differences of hippocampi in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) using volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the extent of bilateral atrophy in MTLE and to relate hippocampal volumes (HV) to outcome of temporal lobectomy. HV and hippocampal differences (HD) were measured in 40 patients with MTLE determined by pathology of hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and compared with those of age-matched controls. Results were matched with surgical outcome. Hippocampi contralateral to lobectomy (right hippocampi 2.96 +/- 0.49 cm3, left 3.14 +/- 0.51 cm3) were significantly smaller than those of controls (right hippocampi 3.73 +/- 0.52 cm3, left 3.60 +/- 0.51 cm3) but were significantly larger than hippocampi ipsilateral to lobectomy (right hippocampi 2.63 +/- 0.61 cm3, 2.18 cm3) as compared across groups by analysis of variance (ANOVA: F = 27.2, p < 0.0001). The smaller hippocampus was ipsilateral to lobectomy in 39 of 40 cases. Seven of 40 MTLE patients (18%) had bilateral atrophy, defined by volumes of each hippocampi 2 SD lower than control means. Surgical outcome was independent of hippocampal asymmetry and bilateral atrophy measured by chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. We determined that most patients with MTLE have some degree of bilateral, asymmetric hippocampal pathology. However, asymmetry and bilateral atrophy have no clear relation to surgical outcome.

Planktonic foraminifers and radiolarians from the Coniacian-santonian deposits of the Mt. Ak-Kaya, Crimean Mountains, Ukraine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korchagin, O. A.; Bragina, L. G.; Bragin, N. Yu.

2012-02-01

The first data on the distribution of planktonic foraminifers and radiolarians in the Mt. Ak-Kaya section, the central Crimean Mountains, are considered. According to the analyzed distribution of foraminifers, the Upper Cretaceous deposits of the section are subdivided into three biostratigraphic units: the Marginotruncana austinensis-Globotruncana desioi (presumably upper Coniacian), Sigalia carpatica (uppermost Coniacian-lower Santonian), and Contusotruncana fornicata-Marginotruncana marginata (upper Santonian) beds. Subdivisions substantiated by distribution of radiolarians are the Alievium praegallowayi-Crucella plana (upper Coniacian-lower Santonian), Alievium gallowayi-Crucella espartoensis (the upper Santonian excluding its uppermost part), and Dictyocephalus (Dictyocryphalus) (?) legumen-Spongosaturninus parvulus (the uppermost Santonian) beds. The Contusotruncana fornicata-Marginotruncana marginata Beds are concurrent to the middle part of the Marsupites laevigatus Zone coupled with the Marsupites testudinarius Zone (the uppermost Santonian). The Alievium gallowayi-Crucella espartoensis Beds are correlative with the upper part of the Alievium gallowayi Zone in the Californian radiolarian zonation. The cooccurring assemblages of planktonic foraminifers and radiolarians provide a possibility to correlate the Coniacian-Santonian deposits within the Crimea-Caucasus region.

Ductility of polystyrene waste panel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulistyorini, Dewi; Yasin, Iskandar

2018-03-01

Polystyrene waste panel is one of alternative materials that uses polystyrene waste. This experiment is to utilize the polystyrene waste as a non structural panel to be evaluated the ductility. The specimen consisted of cement 250 kg/m3, polystyrene waste was as aggregate, water cement ratio was 0.4 and wire mesh diameter was 0.6 mm with the grid 6 mm × 6 mm placed on the top and bottom of the panels. The polystyrene panels were compressed at 2 MPa. Six specimens had dimension 80 cm length, 30 cm width and the thickness planned were two varieties, they were 0.5 cm and 1 cm. Flexural testing is used to examine load and deflection to measure the ductility. The load and the deflection showed that the maximum load for the specimen with 0.5 cm thickness is 0.4, 0.56 and 0.37. And for 1 cm thickness is 0.4, 0.36, 0.64. It shows that the thickness variation does not give effect on the maximum load. Result showed the average of Displacement Ductility Index of polystyrene waste panels with 0.5 cm thickness was 1.692 and for 1 cm thickness, the average was 4.043. So the average of the panel with 0.5 cm thickness planned is under 1.99 and the panel with 1 cm thickness planned is upper 3, therefore, it is considered imperative for adequate ductility.

Prime Contract Awards Alphabetically by Contractor, by State or Country, and Place, Fiscal Year 1985. Part 1. IDSCR Inc. - Amjet Aerospace Inc).

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-01-01

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Effect of feeder space during the growing and laying periods and the rate of feed increase at the onset of lay on broiler breeder female reproductive function.

PubMed

Leksrisompong, N; Romero-Sanchez, H; Oviedo-Rondón, E O; Brake, J

2014-07-01

A study was conducted to examine how 2 feeder space allocations during the rearing period followed by 2 feeder space allocations after photostimulation and 2 female feeding to peak programs (fast or slow) affected female broiler breeder reproductive performance and mortality. Sixteen pens of 76 breeder females each were equipped with either 4 tube feeders with a 132 cm circumference pan (7.0 cm/female) or 6 feeders (10.4 cm/female) to 21 wk of age. Thereafter, 64 females were moved to breeding pens, photostimulated, and fed sex-separate from either 3 (6.2 cm/female) or 5 (10.3 cm/female) feeders with either fast or slow feeding to peak feeding programs applied to complete a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design. Seven males that were separately reared in a similar manner were added per pen. Individual female BW was determined at 6, 20, and 32 wk of age and BW uniformity assessed. Greater feeder space during rearing increased BW at 32 wk of age, whereas greater feeder space during lay or slow feeding to peak decreased BW at 32 wk. There were no differences in BW uniformity. Hens from the 10.4 to 10.3 cm/female combination produced a significantly greater number of eggs as compared with the 7.0 to 10.3 cm/female and 10.4 to 6.2 cm/female combinations with the 7.0 to 6.2 cm/female combination intermediate. Percentage hen-day egg production of the 10.4 to 10.3 cm/female combination hens was significantly greater than all other combinations. Livability was improved in the 10.4 to 10.3 cm/female combination relative to the 7.0 to 10.3 cm/female combination with the others intermediate. The fast feeding to peak program increased yolk weight as well as yolk:albumen ratio at 28 and 30 wk of age, but egg weight did not differ. These data indicated that increased or decreased feeder space between the growing and laying periods did not affect broiler breeder female BW, uniformity, egg weight, fertility, or hatchability. The 10.3 cm/female laying feeder space exhibited the best hen-day egg production in combination with 10.4 cm/pullet rearing but not with 7.0 cm/pullet rearing space. In a similar manner, hen mortality was greater in the 7.0 to 10.3 cm/female feeder space combination that the 10.4 to 10.3 cm/female combination. © 2014 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Giving Canadian Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education an Independent Voice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hodson, Derek

2015-01-01

It is noted that the "Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education" (CJSMTE) was founded with the support of a donation of $1.0 million from the Imperial Oil Charitable Foundation. Four goals were uppermost in the thinking behind the journal: first, it should be bilingual; second, it should be cross-disciplinary;…

COMMERCIAL-SCALE AEROBIC-ANAEROBIC BIOREACTOR LANDFILL OPERATIONS

EPA Science Inventory

A sequential aerobic-anaerobic treatment system has been applied at a commercial scale (3,000 ton per day) municipal solid waste landfill in Kentucky, USA since 2001. In this system, the uppermost layer of landfilled waste is aerated and liquid waste including leachate, surface w...

Dose-volume histogram analysis of brainstem necrosis in head and neck tumors treated using carbon-ion radiotherapy.

PubMed

Shirai, Katsuyuki; Fukata, Kyohei; Adachi, Akiko; Saitoh, Jun-Ichi; Musha, Atsushi; Abe, Takanori; Kanai, Tatsuaki; Kobayashi, Daijiro; Shigeta, Yuka; Yokoo, Satoshi; Chikamatsu, Kazuaki; Ohno, Tatsuya; Nakano, Takashi

2017-10-01

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between brainstem necrosis and dose-volume histograms in patients with head and neck tumors after carbon-ion radiotherapy. We evaluated 85 patients with head and neck tumors who underwent carbon-ion radiotherapy and were followed-up for ≥12months. Brainstem necrosis was evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0). The median follow-up was 24months, and four patients developed grade 1 brainstem necrosis, with 2-year and 3-year cumulative rates of 2.8% and 6.5%, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed the following significant cut-off values: a maximum brainstem dose of 48Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]), D1cm 3 of 27Gy (RBE), V40Gy (RBE) of 0.1cm 3 , V30Gy (RBE) of 0.7cm 3 , and V20Gy (RBE) of 1.4cm 3 . Multivariate analysis revealed that V30Gy (RBE) was most significantly associated with brainstem necrosis. The 2-year cumulative rates were 33% and 0% for V30Gy (RBE) of ≥0.7cm 3 and <0.7cm 3 , respectively (p<0.001). The present study indicated that the dose constraints might help minimize brainstem necrosis after carbon-ion radiotherapy. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Are adult patients with Laron syndrome osteopenic? A comparison between dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and volumetric bone densities.

PubMed

Benbassat, Carlos A; Eshed, Varda; Kamjin, Moshe; Laron, Zvi

2003-10-01

Severe short stature resulting from a deficiency in IGF-I is a prominent feature of Laron syndrome (LS). Although low bone mineral density (BMD) has been noted in LS patients examined by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), this technique does not take volume into account and may therefore underestimate the true bone density in patients with small bones. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the BMD yielded by DEXA in our LS patients using estimated volumetric values. Volumetric density was calculated with the following formulas: bone mineral apparent density (BMAD) = bone mineral content (BMC)/(area)(3/2) for the lumbar spine and BMAD = BMC/area(2) for the femoral neck. The study sample included 12 patients (mean age, 43.9 yr; mean height, 123.7 cm). Findings were compared with 10 osteopenic subjects without developmental abnormalities (mean age, 56 yr; mean height, 164.8 cm) and 10 healthy control subjects matched for sex and age to the LS patients (mean height, 165.5 cm). BMAD in the LS group was 0.201 +/- 0.02 g/cm(3) at the lumbar spine and 0.201 +/- 0.04 g/cm(3) at the femoral neck; corresponding values for the osteopenic group were 0.130 +/- 0.01 and 0.140 +/- 0.01 g/cm(3), and for the controls, 0.178 +/- 0.03 and 0.192 +/- 0.02 g/cm(3). Although areal BMD was significantly lower in the LS and osteopenic subjects compared with controls (P < 0.02) at both the lumbar spine and femoral neck, BMAD was low (P < 0.01) in the osteopenic group only. In conclusion, DEXA does not seem to be a reliable measure of osteoporosis in patients with LS.

In-vitro Assessment of Knee MRI in the Presence of Metal Implants Comparing MAVRIC-SL and Conventional FSE Sequences at 1.5 and 3 Tesla Field Strength

PubMed Central

Liebl, Hans; Heilmeier, Ursula; Lee, Sonia; Nardo, Lorenzo; Patsch, Janina; Schuppert, Christopher; Han, Misung; Rondak, Ina-Christine; Banerjee, Suchandrima; Koch, Kevin; Link, Thomas M.; Krug, Roland

2014-01-01

PURPOSE To assess lesion detection and artifact size reduction of a MAVRIC-SEMAC hybrid sequence (MAVRIC-SL) compared to standard sequences at 1.5T and 3T in porcine knee specimens with metal hardware. METHODS Artificial cartilage and bone lesions of defined size were created in the proximity of titanium and steel screws with 2.5 mm diameter in 12 porcine knee specimens and were imaged at 1.5T and 3T MRI with MAVRIC-SL PD and STIR, standard FSE T2 PD and STIR and fat-saturated T2 FSE sequences. Three radiologists blinded to the lesion locations assessed lesion detection rates on randomized images for each sequence using ROC. Artifact length and width were measured. RESULTS Metal artifact sizes were largest in the presence of steel screws at 3T (FSE T2 FS: 28.7cm2) and 1.5T (16.03cm2). MAVRIC-SL PD and STIR reduced artifact sizes at both 3T (1.43cm2; 2.46cm2) and 1.5T (1.16cm2; 1.59cm2) compared to FS T2 FSE sequences (27.57cm2; 13.20cm2). At 3T, ROC derived AUC values using MAVRIC-SL sequences were significantly higher compared to standard sequences (MAVRIC-PD: 0.87, versus FSE-T2-FS: 0.73 (p=0.025); MAVRIC- STIR: 0.9 versus T2-STIR: 0.78 (p=0.001) and versus FSE-T2-FS: 0.73 (p=0.026)). Similar values were observed at 1.5T. Comparison of 3T and 1.5T showed no significant differences (MAVRIC-SL PD: p=0.382; MAVRIC-SL STIR: p=0.071. CONCLUSION MAVRIC-SL sequences provided superior lesion detection and reduced metal artifact size at both 1.5T and 3T compared to conventionally used FSE sequences. No significant disadvantage was found comparing MAVRIC-SL at 3T and 1.5T, though metal artifacts at 3T were larger. PMID:24912802

[The effect of positive pressure ventilation combined with diaphragm pacing on respiratory mechanics in patients with respiratory failure].

PubMed

Deng, Yi-Jun; Ji, You-Lin; Chen, Lan-Ping; Jin, Qin

2011-04-01

To observe the effects of combining positive pressure ventilation with diaphragm pacing on respiratory mechanics in patients with respiratory failure. Twenty patients with central respiratory failure were studied with cohorts. The effects on respiratory mechanics were respectively observed in patients in control group, in whom ventilation by positive pressure only, and patients in experimental group in whom ventilation was instituted by combining positive pressure ventilation with diaphragm pacing. Compared with control group, mean airway pressure (Paw, cm H(2)O, 1 cm H(2)O= 0.098 kPa) and plateau pressure (Pplat, cm H(2)O) were significantly decreased in experimental group (Paw: 6.1±1.3 vs. 7.3±1.8; Pplat: 10.4±2.5 vs. 12.1±2.6, both P<0.05), while the negative value of peak esophageal pressure (P(PEAK ES) , cm H(2)O), the negative value of the difference between peak and basic esophageal pressure (dP(ES), cm H(2)O), transpulmonary pressure at end of inspiration hold (Ptp plat, cm H(2)O ), static compliance (Cst, ml/cm H(2)O) were significantly increased in experimental group (P(PEAK ES): -8.3± 1.9 vs. -3.2±1.4; dP(ES) : -11.2±2.6 vs. -8.2±2.2; Ptp plat: 23.6±3.8 vs. 15.6±3.1; Cst: 52.7±8.2 vs. 48.3±7.2, all P<0.05). No differences were found in airway resistance (Raw, cm H(2)O×L(-1) ×s(-1) ) and lung resistance (R(L), cm H(2)O×L(-1) ×s(-1) ) between experimental group and control group (Raw: 2.1±0.5 vs. 2.3±0.4; R(L): 2.9±0.6 vs. 3.1±0.5, both P>0.05). Work of breath by patient (WOBp, J/L) was significantly increased and work of breath by ventilator (WOBv, J/L) was significantly decreased in experimental group compared with control group (WOBp: 0.18±0.03 vs. 0; WOBv: 0.31±0.07 vs. 0.53±0.11, both P<0.05). Compared with positive pressure ventilation , positive pressure ventilation combined with diaphragm pacing can decrease the Paw, increase intrathoracic negative pressure, transpulmonary pressure, and Cst, and decrease WOBv, while there is no effect on Raw and R(L).

Abdominal Subcutaneous Fat Thickness Measured by Ultrasonography Correlates with Hyperlipidemia and Steatohepatitis in Obese Children.

PubMed

Lee, Sung Hyun; Kim, Dongwan; Baek, Min Young; Tchah, Hann; Kim, Yeon Sun; Ryoo, Eell; Kim, Yun Mi

2015-06-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness measured by ultrasonography (US) and serum lipid profile and liver transaminases in obese children. One hundred and sixty-six children diagnosed with obesity from May 2001 to December 2013 were included in this study. Data on serum lipid profile and liver transaminases were collected from clinical records. Abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness and grade of hepatic steatosis were evaluated by US. Of the 166 children, 107 were diagnosed with hepatic steatosis by US, 46 with grade I, 56 with grade II, and five children with grade III. According to the grade of hepatic steasosis, the average values of midline abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness and right flank abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness measured 2.9±0.8 cm and 1.9±0.7 cm in the normal group, 3.3±0.8 cm and 2.0±0.7 cm in grade I, 3.8±0.8 cm and 2.3±0.8 cm in grade II, and 4.1±0.8 cm and 2.8±1.4 cm in grade III, respectively. Abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness correlated with grade of hepatic steatosis (p<0.01). In addition, abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness correlated with concentration of serum lipids and liver transaminases in the age group of 12-14 years (p<0.01). Abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness measured by US can be used as a reliable predictor of possible hyperlipidemia and steatohepatitis in children, especially during the adolescent stage.

Effects of contrast media on the hepato-pancreato-biliary system

PubMed Central

Topcu, Omer; Kurt, Atilla; Nadir, Isilay; Arici, Sema; Koyuncu, Ayhan; Aydin, Cengiz

2009-01-01

AIM: To determine the effects of high osmolarity contrast media (HOCM) and iso-osmolar contrast media (CM) application, with or without pressure, on hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) system. METHODS: Sixty rats were divided into six equal groups as follows: Group 1: (0.9% NaCl, control), Group 2: (diatrizoate meglumine Na, ionic HOCM, Urographin®), Group 3: (iodixanol, iso-osmolar non-ionic CM, Visipaque®); each of which was applied without pressure, whereas the animals of the remaining three groups (1p, 2p, 3p) were subjected to the same CM with pressure. We performed a duodenal puncture and introduced a catheter into the ampulla. After the catheterization, 0.2 mL CM or 0.9% NaCl was injected with or without pressure. Blood samples were taken for biochemical evaluations. The histopathological examinations of liver, common bile duct, and pancreas were performed. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the six groups for blood amylase, alanine aminotransferases, aspartate aminotransferases, bilirubin levels (P > 0.05). Alkaline phosphatase and γ glutamyl transaminase levels were higher (P < 0.05) in the Urographin® groups (2, 2p) than the Visipaque® groups (3, 3p), or control groups (1, 1p). Hepatocyte necrosis, portal area inflammation, and Kupffer’s cell hyperplasia were higher (P < 0.05) in the study groups than the control group. However, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between HOCM (2, 2p) and iso-osmolar CM (3, 3p) groups. Bile duct proliferation and regeneration in the Urographin® groups (2, 2p) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the Visipaque® groups (3, 3p) or the control groups (1, 1p). Although CM caused minor damage to the pancreas, there were no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) between the groups. Application of the CM with pressure did not cause additional damage to the HPB system. CONCLUSION: Iso-osmolar, non-ionic CM could be more reliable than the ionic HOCM, whereas the application of pressure during the CM application had no effect on the HPB system. PMID:19824112

The ν 3 band of DCOOH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goh, K. L.; Ong, P. P.; Tan, T. L.

1999-11-01

The high resolution Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of the ν 3 band of DCOOH has been measured with a resolution of 0.004 cm -1 in the spectral range 1670-1810 cm -1. Using the Watson's A-reduced Hamiltonian in the Ir representation, 713 infrared transitions have been assigned and fitted to provide rovibrational constants for the ν 3=1 state with a standard deviation of 0.000439 cm -1. The ν 3 band centre was found at 1725.87497±0.00003 cm -1. The band is perturbed by the 2ν 8 band, situated at 1762.9 cm -1, through Fermi resonance and possibly a Coriolis term. Perturbations of ν 3 by ν 5+ν 7 and ν 5+ν 9 are also expected. About 280 perturbed ν 3 lines were identified and excluded in the final fit.

The X-ray Spectrum of the North Polar Spur

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willingale, Richard; Hands, A. D. P.; Warwick, R. S.; Snowden, S. L.; Burrows, David N.

2003-01-01

An analysis is presented of the soft X-ray background spectrum measured by the EPIC MOS cameras on XMM-Newton in three observations targeted on the North Polar Spur (NPS). Three distinct Galactic plasma components are identified, a cool Local Hot Bubble (LHB) component, T(sub lo) approx. 0.1 keV, a cool Galactic Halo component at a similar temperature and a hotter component, T(sub hi) approx. 0.26 keV, associated with the NPS itself. Using the new data in combination with the Rosat All-Sky Survey count rates measured in the 0.1-0.4 keV band, we estimate the emission measure of the LHB material to be 0.0040-0.0052 cm(exp -6) pc, which implies an electron density of 0.008-0.011 cm(exp -3) and pressure of approx. 22000 cm(exp -3) K. The halo and NPS components lie behind at least 50% of the line-of-sight cold gas for which the total Galactic column density is in the range (2 - 8) x 10(exp 20) cm(exp -2). Modelling the X-ray emitting superbubble as a sphere at distance 210 pc, radius 140 pc and center l(sub II) = 352 deg, b(sub II) = 15 deg, the implied electron density in the NPS is approx. 0.03 cm(exp -3) with pressure approx. 150000 cm(exp -3) K. The observed spectral line complexes from OVII, OVIII, FeXVII, NeIX, NeX and MgXI provide constraints on the composition of the plasma. The hot component in the NPS is depleted in oxygen, neon and, to some extent, magnesium and iron. Assuming the effective line of sight across the halo emission is 1 kpc, the electron density in the halo is 0.007-0.011 cm(exp -3) and the pressure is approx. 16500 cm(exp -3) K, conditions very similar to those in the LHB.

Use of the Priestley-Taylor evaporation equation for soil water limited conditions in a small forest clearcut

USGS Publications Warehouse

Flint, A.L.; Childs, S.W.

1991-01-01

The Priestley-Taylor equation, a simplification of the Penman equation, was used to allow calculations of evapotranspiration under conditions where soil water supply limits evapotranspiration. The Priestley-Taylor coefficient, ??, was calculated to incorporate an exponential decrease in evapotranspiration as soil water content decreases. The method is appropriate for use when detailed meteorological measurements are not available. The data required to determine the parameter for the ?? coefficient are net radiation, soil heat flux, average air temperature, and soil water content. These values can be obtained from measurements or models. The dataset used in this report pertains to a partially vegetated clearcut forest site in southwest Oregon with soil depths ranging from 0.48 to 0.70 m and weathered bedrock below that. Evapotranspiration was estimated using the Bowen ratio method, and the calculated Priestley-Taylor coefficient was fitted to these estimates by nonlinear regression. The calculated Priestley-Taylor coefficient (?????) was found to be approximately 0.9 when the soil was near field capacity (0.225 cm3 cm-3). It was not until soil water content was less than 0.14 cm3 cm-3 that soil water supply limited evapotranspiration. The soil reached a final residual water content near 0.05 cm3 cm-3 at the end of the growing season. ?? 1991.

A Nuclear Ramjet Flyer for Exploration of Jovian Atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maise, G.; Powell, J.; Paniagua, J.; Lecat, R.

2001-01-01

We investigated the design, operation, and data gathering possibilities of a nuclear-powered ramjet flyer in the Jovian atmosphere. The MITEE nuclear rocket engine can be modified to operate as a ramjet in planetary atmospheres. (Note: MITEE is a compact, ultra-light-weight thermal nuclear rocket which uses hydrogen as the propellant.) To operate as a ramjet, MITEE requires a suitable inlet and diffuser to substitute for the propellant that is pumped from the supply tanks in a nuclear rocket engine. Such a ramjet would fly in the upper Jovian atmosphere, mapping in detail temperatures, pressures, compositions, lightning activity, and wind speeds in the highly turbulent equatorial zone and the Great Red Spot. The nuclear ramjet could operate for months because: (1) the Jovian atmosphere has unlimited propellant, (2) the MITEE nuclear reactor is a (nearly) unlimited power source, and (3) with few moving parts, mechanical wear should be minimal. This paper presents a conceptual design of a ramjet flyer and its nuclear engine. The flyer incorporates a swept-wing design with instruments located in the twin wing-tip pods (away from the radiation source and readily shielded, if necessary). The vehicle is 2 m long with a 2 m wingspan. Its mass is 220 kg, and its nominal flight Mach number is 1.5. Based on combined neutronic and thermal/hydraulic analyses, we calculated that the ambient pressure range over which the flyer can operate to be from about 0.04 to 4 (terrestrial) atmospheres. This altitude range encompasses the three uppermost cloud layers in the Jovian atmosphere: (1) the entire uppermost visible NH3 ice cloud layer (where lightning has been observed), (2) the entire NH4HS ice cloud layer, and (3) the upper portion of the H2O ice cloud layer.

Spatiotemporal distribution of low-frequency earthquakes in Southwest Japan: Evidence for fluid migration and magmatic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Zhiteng; Zhao, Dapeng; Niu, Xiongwei; Li, Jiabiao

2018-01-01

Low-frequency earthquakes (LFEs) in the lower crust and uppermost mantle are widely observed in Southwest Japan, and they occur not only along the subducting Philippine Sea (PHS) slab interface but also beneath active arc volcanoes. The volcanic LFEs are still not well understood because of their limited quantities and less reliable hypocenter locations. In this work, seismic tomography is used to determine detailed three-dimensional (3-D) P- and S-wave velocity (Vp and Vs) models of the crust and upper mantle beneath Southwest Japan, and then the obtained 3-D Vp and Vs models are used to relocate the volcanic LFEs precisely. The results show that the volcanic LFEs can be classified into two types: pipe-like and swarm-like LFEs, and both of them are located in or around zones of low-velocity and high-Poisson's ratio anomalies in the crust and uppermost mantle beneath the active volcanoes. The pipe-like LFEs may be related to the fluid migration from the lower crust or the uppermost mantle, whereas the swarm-like LFEs may be related to local magmatic activities or small magma chambers. The number of LFEs sometimes increases sharply before or after a nearby large crustal earthquake which may cause cracks and fluid migration. The spatiotemporal distribution of the LFEs may indicate the track of migrating fluids. As compared with the tectonic LFEs along the PHS slab interface, the volcanic LFEs are more sensitive to fluid migration and local magmatic activities. High pore pressures play an important role in triggering both types of LFEs in Southwest Japan.

Elite Female Basketball Players' Body-Weight Neuromuscular Training and Performance on the Y-Balance Test

PubMed Central

Benis, Roberto; Bonato, Matteo; Torre, Antonio La

2016-01-01

Context: Neuromuscular training enhances unconscious motor responses by stimulating both the afferent signals and central mechanisms responsible for dynamic joint control. Dynamic joint-control training is a vital component of injury-prevention programs. Objective: To investigate the effects of body-weight neuromuscular training on Y-Balance Test (YBT) performance and postural control in female basketball players. Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting: Basketball practice sessions. Patients or Other Participants: A total of 28 healthy elite female basketball players were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 14) or a control group (n = 14). Intervention(s): Before their regular practice sessions, the experimental group warmed up with body-weight neuromuscular exercises and the control group with standard tactical-technical exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks. Main Outcome Measure(s): Anterior-, posteromedial-, and posterolateral-reach and composite YBT scores were measured before and after 8 weeks of training. Results: Improvement over baseline scores was noted in the posteromedial (right = 86.5 ± 4.5 cm versus 89.6 ± 2.2 cm, +3.5%, P = .049; left = 85.5 ± 4.3 cm versus 90.2 ± 2.7 cm, +5.5%, P = .038)- and posterolateral (right = 90.7 ± 3.6 cm versus 94.0 ± 2.7 cm, +3.6%, P = .016; left = 90.9 ± 3.5 cm versus 94.2 ± 2.6 cm, +3.6%, P = .011)-reach directions and in the composite YBT scores (right = 88.6% ± 3.2% versus 94.0% ± 1.8%, +5.4%, P = .0004; left = 89.2% ± 3.2% versus 94.5% ± 3.0%, +5.8%, P = .001) of the experimental group. No differences in anterior reach were detected in either group. Differences were noted in postintervention scores for posteromedial reach (right = 89.6 ± 2.2 cm versus 84.3 ± 4.4 cm, +4.1%, P = .005; left = 94.2 ± 2.6 cm versus 84.8 ± 4.4 cm, +10%, P = .003) and composite scores (right = 94.0% ± 1.8% versus 87.3% ± 2.0%, +7.1%, P = .003; left = 94.8% ± 3.0% versus 87.9% ± 3.4%, +7.3%, P < .0001) between the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Body-weight neuromuscular training improved postural control and lower limb stability in female basketball players as assessed with the YBT. Incorporating neuromuscular training into the workout routines for basketball players may enhance joint awareness and reduce the risk of lower extremity injury. PMID:27824252

Elite Female Basketball Players' Body-Weight Neuromuscular Training and Performance on the Y-Balance Test.

PubMed

Benis, Roberto; Bonato, Matteo; La Torre, Antonio La

2016-09-01

Neuromuscular training enhances unconscious motor responses by stimulating both the afferent signals and central mechanisms responsible for dynamic joint control. Dynamic joint-control training is a vital component of injury-prevention programs. To investigate the effects of body-weight neuromuscular training on Y-Balance Test (YBT) performance and postural control in female basketball players. Randomized controlled clinical trial. Basketball practice sessions. A total of 28 healthy elite female basketball players were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 14) or a control group (n = 14). Before their regular practice sessions, the experimental group warmed up with body-weight neuromuscular exercises and the control group with standard tactical-technical exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks. Anterior-, posteromedial-, and posterolateral-reach and composite YBT scores were measured before and after 8 weeks of training. Improvement over baseline scores was noted in the posteromedial (right = 86.5 ± 4.5 cm versus 89.6 ± 2.2 cm, +3.5%, P = .049; left = 85.5 ± 4.3 cm versus 90.2 ± 2.7 cm, +5.5%, P = .038)- and posterolateral (right = 90.7 ± 3.6 cm versus 94.0 ± 2.7 cm, +3.6%, P = .016; left = 90.9 ± 3.5 cm versus 94.2 ± 2.6 cm, +3.6%, P = .011)-reach directions and in the composite YBT scores (right = 88.6% ± 3.2% versus 94.0% ± 1.8%, +5.4%, P = .0004; left = 89.2% ± 3.2% versus 94.5% ± 3.0%, +5.8%, P = .001) of the experimental group. No differences in anterior reach were detected in either group. Differences were noted in postintervention scores for posteromedial reach (right = 89.6 ± 2.2 cm versus 84.3 ± 4.4 cm, +4.1%, P = .005; left = 94.2 ± 2.6 cm versus 84.8 ± 4.4 cm, +10%, P = .003) and composite scores (right = 94.0% ± 1.8% versus 87.3% ± 2.0%, +7.1%, P = .003; left = 94.8% ± 3.0% versus 87.9% ± 3.4%, +7.3%, P < .0001) between the experimental and control groups. Body-weight neuromuscular training improved postural control and lower limb stability in female basketball players as assessed with the YBT. Incorporating neuromuscular training into the workout routines for basketball players may enhance joint awareness and reduce the risk of lower extremity injury.

Atmospheric lifetimes, infrared spectra and degradation products of a series of hydrofluoroethers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cavalli, F.; Glasius, M.; Hjorth, J.; Rindone, B.; Jensen, N. R.

The rate constants of the reactions between the OH radical and a series of hydrofluoroethers (HFE) have been measured. The reaction of OH with CHF 2OCF 2OCHF 2 (1), CHF 2OCF 2CF 2OCHF 2 (2), CHF 2OCF 2CF 2OCF 2OCHF 2 (3) and CH 3OC 4F 9 (4) were investigated at 295±3 K and 740±5 Torr total pressure. The following values of the rate constants were determined for the reaction with the OH radical: k1=(2.4±0.7)×10 -15 cm 3 molecule -1 s -1, k2=(4.7±1.6)×10 -15 cm 3 molecule -1 s -1, k3=(4.6±1.6)×10 -15 cm 3 molecule -1 s -1 and k4=(7.2±1.6)×10 -15 cm 3 molecule -1 s -1. (All values are given with 2 σ uncertainties). Infrared spectra were obtained for all four HFEs in the range from 600 to 4000 cm -1 (3 to 17 μm), with the following IBI-values (integrated band intensities): IBI 1= (5.19±0.23)×10 -16 cm molecule -1 for the 978-1584 cm -1 band, IBI 2=(6.04±0.13)×10 -16 cm molecule -1 for the 930-1501 cm -1 band, IBI 3=(8.49±0.34)×10 -16 cm molecule -1 from the 963-1587 cm -1 band and IBI 4=(4.23±0.14)×10 -16 cm molecule -1 for the 845-1428 cm -1 band. Carbonyl fluoride, CF 2O, was the only fluorine-containing degradation product that was found from the Cl atom-initiated reactions of both CHF 2OCF 2OCF 2CF 2OCHF 2 and CH 3OC 4F 9, with measured product yields of 60-97% and 20-40% (based on carbon atoms), respectively. Due to the high uptake parameter of CF 2O to liquid water, its lifetime in the atmosphere is very short (with an upper limit between 15 and 30 d). It is rapidly incorporated into raindrops/aerosols, where it eventually degrades to HF and CO 2. The GWP of CF 2O is therefore negligible compared to those of CFC-11 and CFC-12.

MCNP6 model of the University of Washington clinical neutron therapy system (CNTS).

PubMed

Moffitt, Gregory B; Stewart, Robert D; Sandison, George A; Goorley, John T; Argento, David C; Jevremovic, Tatjana

2016-01-21

A MCNP6 dosimetry model is presented for the Clinical Neutron Therapy System (CNTS) at the University of Washington. In the CNTS, fast neutrons are generated by a 50.5 MeV proton beam incident on a 10.5 mm thick Be target. The production, scattering and absorption of neutrons, photons, and other particles are explicitly tracked throughout the key components of the CNTS, including the target, primary collimator, flattening filter, monitor unit ionization chamber, and multi-leaf collimator. Simulations of the open field tissue maximum ratio (TMR), percentage depth dose profiles, and lateral dose profiles in a 40 cm × 40 cm × 40 cm water phantom are in good agreement with ionization chamber measurements. For a nominal 10 × 10 field, the measured and calculated TMR values for depths of 1.5 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm (compared to the dose at 1.7 cm) are within 0.22%, 2.23%, 4.30%, and 6.27%, respectively. For the three field sizes studied, 2.8 cm × 2.8 cm, 10.4 cm × 10.3 cm, and 28.8 cm × 28.8 cm, a gamma test comparing the measured and simulated percent depth dose curves have pass rates of 96.4%, 100.0%, and 78.6% (depth from 1.5 to 15 cm), respectively, using a 3% or 3 mm agreement criterion. At a representative depth of 10 cm, simulated lateral dose profiles have in-field (⩾ 10% of central axis dose) pass rates of 89.7% (2.8 cm × 2.8 cm), 89.6% (10.4 cm × 10.3 cm), and 100.0% (28.8 cm × 28.8 cm) using a 3% and 3 mm criterion. The MCNP6 model of the CNTS meets the minimum requirements for use as a quality assurance tool for treatment planning and provides useful insights and information to aid in the advancement of fast neutron therapy.

[Application of injection test in confirming the ideal position of esophageal balloon catheter].

PubMed

Chen, Han; Xu, Ming; Yang, Yanlin; He, Xuan; Zhou, Jianxin

2017-09-01

To evaluate the safety and feasibility of injection test which is used to locate esophageal balloon catheter. A prospective study was conducted. The patients undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) admitted to general intensive care unit (ICU) of Beijing Tiantan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University from May 2015 and March 2017 were enrolled. The commercially available esophageal balloon catheter was modified to perform injection test. The catheter was withdrawn step by step and the injection test was repeated until the presence disturbance wave presented, which indicated that the balloon had just entered the esophagus. The position where disturbance wave appears was named 0 cm. End-expiratory occlusions were performed at the positions of +15, +10, +5, 0, -5, -10 and -15 cm, respectively, and the changes of esophageal pressure (Pes) and airway pressures (Paw) were measured in the spontaneous breathing and passive ventilation, and the ratio between the changes (ΔPes/ΔPaw) was calculated. A total of 20 patients were enrolled, of which 15 patients finished both the spontaneous and the passive ventilation parts, and 2 patients finished only the spontaneous part and 3 patients finished only passive part. (1) Disturbance waves could be induced by injection test in all patients. The average depth of disturbance wave in spontaneous breathing was deeper than that in passive ventilation (cm: 42.4±3.8 vs. 41.8±3.3), but there was no significant difference between the two ventilation settings (P = 0.132). No adverse events occurred during the study period. (2) Pes increased with the stepwise withdraw of esophageal catheter, reached the maximal value at +5 cm, and then decreased when the catheter was further withdrawn, no matter in the spontaneous or the passive ventilation. In spontaneous breathing, the ΔPes/ΔPaw was within the ideal range (0.8-1.2) at the positions of 0, -5 and -10 cm. The ΔPes/ΔPaw was closest to unity at the positions of 0 cm (0.98±0.15). The ΔPes/ΔPaw at -15 cm (0.66±0.26) was significantly lower than that at 0 cm (P < 0.05). For passive ventilation, the ΔPes/ΔPaw was within the ideal range at the positions of -5 cm and -10 cm, and the ΔPes/ΔPaw was closest to unity at the positions of -10 cm (0.94±0.12). The ΔPes/ΔPaw at 0 cm and -5 cm was significantly higher than that at -10 cm (1.43±0.31 and 1.12±0.14, respectively); while the ΔPes/ΔPaw at -15 cm (0.68±0.23) was significantly lower than that at -10 cm (all P < 0.01). Ideal position of the esophageal balloon catheter could be determined quickly and easily by using injection test. The method is safe and clinically feasible. Clinical Trials, NCT02446938.

Using a time lapse microgravity model for mapping seawater intrusion around Semarang

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

Supriyadi,, E-mail: supriyadi@mail.unnes.ac.id; Khumaedi; Yusuf, M.

A modeling of time-lapse microgravity anomaly due to sea water intrusion has been conducted. It used field data of aquifer cross section, aquifer thickness and lithology of research area. Those data were then processed using Grav3D and Surfer. Modeling results indicated that the intrusion of sea water resulting in a time-lapse microgravity anomalies of 0.12 to 0.18 mGal, at soil layer density of 0.15 g/cm{sup 3} to 0.3 g/cm{sup 3} and at depth of 30 to 100 m. These imply that the areas experiencing seawater intrusion were Tanjung Mas, SPBE Bandarharjo, Brass, Old Market Boom and Johar as the microgravity measured there weremore » in the range of 0.12 to 0.18 mGal and the density contrast were at 0.15 g/cm{sup 3} to 0.28 g/cm{sup 3}. Areas that experienced fluid reduction were Puri Anjasmoro, Kenconowungu and Puspowarno with microgravity changes from -0.06 mGal to -0.18 mGal.« less

Method for producing metal oxide aerogels having densities less than 0. 02 g/cc

DOEpatents

Tillotson, T.M.; Poco, J.F.; Hrubesh, L.W.; Thomas, I.M.

1994-01-04

A two-step method is described for making transparent aerogels which have a density of less than 0.003 g/cm[sup 3] to those with a density of more than 0.8 g/cm[sup 3], by a sol/gel process and supercritical extraction. Condensed metal oxide intermediate made with purified reagents can be diluted to produce stable aerogels with a density of less than 0.02 g/cm[sup 3]. High temperature, direct supercritical extraction of the liquid phase of the gel produces hydrophobic aerogels which are stable at atmospheric moisture conditions. Monolithic, homogeneous silica aerogels with a density of less than 0.02 to higher than 0.8 g/cm[sup 3], with high thermal insulation capacity, improved mechanical strength and good optical transparency, are described. 7 figures.

TRLFS study on the complexation of Cm(III) and Eu(III) with SO3-Ph-BTBP.

PubMed

Wagner, Christoph; Müllich, Udo; Geist, Andreas; Panak, Petra J

2015-10-21

The complexation of Cm(iii) and Eu(iii) with a water soluble BTBP (sodium 3,3',3'',3'''-([2,2'-bipyridine]-6,6'-diylbis(1,2,4-triazine-3,5,6-triyl))tetrabenzenesulfonate, SO3-Ph-BTBP) is studied using time resolved laser fluorescence spectroscopy. For the complexation of Cm(iii) the influence of the medium (10(-3) M HClO4→ 0.5 M HNO3) is investigated in detail revealing important impacts of the applied medium (pH, ionic strength, anions) on the speciation and conditional stability constants. SO3-Ph-BTBP forms 1 : 2 complexes with Cm(iii) and Eu(iii). The conditional stability constants of [Cm(SO3-Ph-BTBP)2](5-) and [Eu(SO3-Ph-BTBP)2](5-) in 0.5 M HNO3 are determined to be log β02 = 7.3 ± 0.3 and log β02 = 5.4 ± 0.5, respectively. The difference of 1.9 orders of magnitude is in line with hydrophobic BT(B)P type ligands and shows that the selectivity is not affected by tuning the hydrophilicity using SO3-Ph-side chains.

Implementation of small field radiotherapy dosimetry for spinal metastase case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rofikoh, Wibowo, W. E.; Pawiro, S. A.

2017-07-01

The main objective of this study was to know dose profile of small field radiotherapy in the spinal metastase case with source axis distance (SAD) techniques. In addition, we evaluated and compared the dose planning of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and conventional techniques to measurements with Exradin A16 and Gafchromic EBT3 film dosimeters. The results showed that film EBT3 had a highest precision and accuracy with the average of the standard deviation of ±1.7 and maximum discrepancy of 2.6 %. In addition, the average value of Full Wave Half Maximum (FWHM) and its largest deviation in small field size of 0.8 x 0.8 cm2 are 0.82 cm and 16.3 % respectively, while it was found around 2.36 cm and 3 % for the field size of 2.4 x 2.4 cm2. The comparison between penumbra width and the collimation was around of 37.1 % for the field size of 0.8 x 0.8 cm2, while it was found of 12.4 % for the field size of 2.4 x 2.4 cm2.

Adsorptive removal of Cr3+ from aqueous solutions using chitosan microfibers immobilized with plant polyphenols as biosorbents with high capacity and selectivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ting; Wang, Yujia; Kuang, Yiwen; Yang, Ruilin; Ma, Jun; Zhao, Shilin; Liao, Yang; Mao, Hui

2017-05-01

A novel biosorbent was facilely prepared by immobilizing bayberry tannin (BT, a typical natural polyphenols) onto chitosan microfiber (CM). The as-prepared CM-BT adsorbent featured to a well-defined microfibrous morphology and highly distributed adsorption sites, which was highly efficient and selective for the adsorptive removal of Cr3+ from aqueous solutions. Based on batch experiments, the adsorption of Cr3+ on CM-BT was pH-dependent, and the optimized adsorption pH was determined to be 5.5. The adsorption capacity of CM-BT to Cr3+ was high up to 20.90 mg/g. The co-existing cations, such as Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe3+ and Cu2+, exhibited no significant influences on the adsorption of Cr3+ on CM-BT. The adsorption kinetics were well fitted by the pseudo-second-order rate model (R2 > 0.99) while the adsorption isotherms were well described by the Langmuir model (R2 > 0.98). Importantly, CM-BT was effective for the continues treatment of low concentration Cr3+ (2.0 mg/L) contaminated wastewater. Before reached the breakthrough point (5% of the initial Cr3+ concentration, 0.1 mg/L), the treated volume was as high as 894 bed volume, manifesting the great potential of CM-BT in practical treatment of Cr3+ contaminated wastewater.

Preparation and Mechanical Properties of Pressed Straw Concrete Brick

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumarni, S.; Wijanarko, W.

2018-03-01

Rice straws have been widely used as wall filler material in China, Australia, and United States, by spinning them into hays with an approximate dimension of 40 cm of height, 40cm of thickness and 60 cm of width, using a machine. Then, the hays are placed into a wall frame until they fill it completely. After that, the wall frame is covered with wire mesh and plastered. In this research, rice straws are to be used as concrete brick fillers, by pressing the straws into hays and then putting them into the concrete brick mold along with mortar. The objective of this research is to investigate the mechanical properties of concrete brick, namely: compressive strength, specific gravity, and water absorption power. This research used experimental research method. It was conducted by using concrete bricks which had 400 cm of width, 200 cm of height, and 100 cm of thickness, made from rice straws, cement, sand, and water as the test sample. The straws were each made different by their volume. The mortars used in this research were made from cement, sand, and water, with the ratio of 1:7:0.5. The concrete bricks were made by pressing straws mixed with glue into hays, and then cut by determined variations of volume. The variations of hays volume were 0 m3, 0.000625 m3, 0.00075 m3, 0.000875 m3, 0.00125 m3, 0.0015 m3, 0.00175 m3, 0.001875 m3, 0.00225 m3, and 0.002625 m3. There were 3 samples for each volumes of hays. The result shows that the straw concrete bricks reached the maximum compressive strength of 1.92 MPa, specific gravity of 1,702 kg/m3, and water absorption level of 3.9 %. Based on the provided measurements of products in the Standar Nasional Indonesia (Indonesian product standardization), the concrete bricks produced attained the prescribed standard quality.

Surface Acoustic Wave Devices as Chemical Vapor Sensors

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-26

x105cm/s) (x10−6cm1/2g1/2) (pF/cm) (ppm/oC) Quartz ST 3.158 0.13 1.34 0.88 0.0011 0.5 ∼ 0 X Lithium Niobate -Y 3.488 0 0.83 0.56 0.048 4.6 94 X Gallium ...sensitivity, followed by lithium niobate and gallium arsenide in ratios of 7.4:5.9:4.8, re- spectively. Thus, even though lithium niobate has the superior...Acoustic Wave (SAW) Sensor for 2,4-Dinitro Toluene (DNT) Vapour Detection,” Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, vol. 101, no. 3, pp. 328–334, 2004. 8

Lifetime, collisional-quenching, and {ital j}-mixing measurements of the metastable 3{ital D} levels of Ca{sup +}

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

Knoop, M.; Vedel, M.; Vedel, F.

1995-11-01

The metastable 3{sup 2}{ital D}{sub 3/2,5/2} doublet of Ca{sup +} ions stored in a Paul trap was investigated in the presence of different neutral gases, in the pressure range 10{sup {minus}9}--10{sup {minus}6} mbar. The natural lifetimes were determined to be {tau}({ital D}{sub 3/2})=1111{plus_minus}46 ms and {tau}({ital D}{sub 5/2})=994{plus_minus}38 ms, which agree very well with previous experiments. The estimation of the quenching rates of Ca{sup +}-He [{Gamma}{sub He}=(1.05{plus_minus}0.42){times}10{sup {minus}12} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1}], Ca{sup +}-Ne [{Gamma}{sub Ne}=(0.9{plus_minus}0.7){times}10{sup {minus}12} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1}], and Ca{sup +}-N{sub 2} [{Gamma}{sub N{sub 2}}=(1.7{plus_minus}0.2){times}10{sup {minus}10} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1}] was carried out for collisions in themore » energy range 0.3--1.3 eV. In addition, rate constants for the mixing of the fine-structure states were measured in the presence of helium and nitrogen for the {ital j}=3/2{r_arrow}{ital j}=5/2 case [{gamma}{sub 35}(He)=(2.24{plus_minus}0.10){times}10{sup {minus}10} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1} and {gamma}{sub 35}(N{sub 2})=(2.8{plus_minus}0.3){times}10{sup {minus}9} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1}] and for the {ital j}=5/2{r_arrow}{ital j}=3/2 case [{gamma}{sub 53}(He)=(1.2{plus_minus}0.7){times}10{sup {minus}10} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1} and {gamma}{sub 53}(N{sub 2})=(1.26{plus_minus}0.10){times}10{sup {minus}9} cm{sup 3} s{sup {minus}1}]. The measurements were carried out populating the metastable levels by direct laser excitation of the forbidden {ital S}-{ital D} transitions.« less

Late Holocene Coral Growth Records from the Southeast Florida Continental Reef Tract, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Modys, A.; Oleinik, A. E.; Manzello, D.; Enochs, I.; Kolodziej, G.; Carroll, R. J.

2017-12-01

The southeast Florida continental reef tract provides a unique opportunity to examine the past and present response of marginal coral reefs to environmental and climatic change. Here we compare growth records of radiometrically dated late Holocene (3.1 to 1.9 ka) and modern corals using cores extracted from the common reef-building coral species Pseudodiploria strigosa. In 2015 and 2016, a total of 4 modern and 5 subfossil cores were collected from two shallow-water sites (3.0 and 4.5 m depths) on the nearshore ridge complex (NRC) offshore northern Broward County, Florida. Using 3-D computerized tomography, skeletal extension rates were estimated from the thickness of high- and low-density growth bands and combined with density measurements to yield calcification rates. Our results indicate that mean linear extension, density, and calcification were significantly lower in the late Holocene corals (0.52±0.01 cm yr-1; 1.05±0.02 g cm-3; 0.55±0.01 g cm-2 yr-1) compared to today (0.64±0.02 cm yr-1; 1.20±0.02 g cm-3; 0.78±0.04 g cm-2 yr-1), despite shallower local water depths in the late Holocene. Based on the radiometric ages and presence of distinct burial notches on the subfossil corals, we suggest that late Holocene P. strigosa growth at this site was potentially suppressed by reduced sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and/or increased burial compared to present conditions.

Anatomy of the Pudendal Nerve and Other Neural Structures Around the Proximal Hamstring Origin in Males.

PubMed

Cvetanovich, Gregory L; Saltzman, Bryan M; Ukwuani, Gift; Frank, Rachel M; Verma, Nikhil N; Bush-Joseph, Charles A; Nho, Shane J

2018-03-29

To define the anatomy of the pudendal nerve in relationship to the proximal hamstring and other nearby neurological structures during proximal hamstring repair. Six fresh-frozen human cadaveric hemi-pelvises from male patients ages 64.0 ± 4.1 years were dissected in prone position with hips in 10° flexion to identify the relationship of proximal hamstring origin to surrounding neurologic structures including the pudendal nerve, sciatic nerve, and posterior femoral cutaneous nerve. Two independent observers used digital calipers to measure distances. The pudendal nerve emerged at the inferior border of the piriformis muscle 6.3 ± 1.4 cm from the superior aspect of the proximal hamstring origin. It passed the superior border of the sacrotuberous ligament 3.0 ± 0.6 cm from the superior aspect and 3.9 ± 0.7 cm from the medial aspect of the hamstring origin. It crossed the inferior border of the sacrotuberous ligament 3.0 ± 0.4 cm from the superior aspect and 2.7 ± 0.7 cm from the medial aspect of the proximal hamstring origin. The shortest distance from the hamstring origin to the pudendal nerve was 2.6 ± 0.5 cm from the superior aspect and 2.3 ± 0.8 cm from the medial aspect. The shortest distance from the hamstring origin to the pudendal nerve was located deep to the sacrotuberous ligament in all cadavers. The sciatic nerve was an average of 1.1 ± 0.1 cm lateral to the lateral aspect of the proximal hamstring origin. The posterior femoral cutaneous nerve was located between the hamstring origin and the sciatic nerve, 0.7 ± 0.2 cm lateral to the lateral aspect of the proximal hamstring origin. The proximal hamstring origin lies in close proximity to surrounding nerves, including the pudendal, sciatic, and posterior femoral cutaneous nerves. Knowledge that the pudendal nerve lies 2 to 3 cm superior and medial to the proximal hamstring origin may help to prevent iatrogenic damage during surgical dissection and retraction when performing proximal hamstring repair or deep gluteal space endoscopy. Copyright © 2018 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shallow crustal radial anisotropy beneath the Tehran basin of Iran from seismic ambient noise tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirzad, Taghi; Shomali, Z. Hossein

2014-06-01

We studied the shear wave velocity structure and radial anisotropy beneath the Tehran basin by analyzing the Rayleigh wave and Love wave empirical Green's functions obtained from cross-correlation of seismic ambient noise. Approximately 199 inter-station Rayleigh and Love wave empirical Green's functions with sufficient signal-to-noise ratios extracted from 30 stations with various sensor types were used for phase velocity dispersion analysis of periods ranging from 1 to 7 s using an image transformation analysis technique. Dispersion curves extracted from the phase velocity maps were inverted based on non-linear damped least squares inversion method to obtain a quasi-3D model of crustal shear wave velocities. The data used in this study provide an unprecedented opportunity to resolve the spatial distribution of radial anisotropy within the uppermost crust beneath the Tehran basin. The quasi-3D shear wave velocity model obtained in this analysis delineates several distinct low- and high-velocity zones that are generally separated by geological boundaries. High-shear-velocity zones are located primarily around the mountain ranges and extend to depths of 2.0 km, while the low-shear-velocity zone is located near regions with sedimentary layers. In the shallow subsurface, our results indicate strong radial anisotropy with negative magnitude (VSV > VSH) primarily associated with thick sedimentary deposits, reflecting vertical alignment of cracks. With increasing depth, the magnitude of the radial anisotropy shifts from predominantly negative (less than -10%) to predominantly positive (greater than 5%). Our results show a distinct change in radial anisotropy between the uppermost sedimentary layer and the bedrock.

[Intrathoracic movement of the normal and hypertrophied hearts measured by biplane coronary cineangiography].

PubMed

Osato, S; Ishikawa, K; Kanamasa, K; Ogai, T; Oda, A; Katori, R

1984-06-01

The shift of the heart during systole within the thorax was measured using bifurcations of the left coronary artery as cineangiographic markers. Biplane coronary cineangiography was performed in 13 normal subjects and 6 patients with non-obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The spatial coordinates (X, Y, Z) of the bifurcations on the cineangiograms were measured using a motion analizer-digitizer-computer system. The systolic excursion of the motion of a bifurcation located at the anterior-basal point of the heart was 1.4 +/- 0.1 (+/-SD) cm leftward, 3.0 +/- 0.3 cm caudally and 2.5 +/- 0.1 cm anteriorly in normal subjects. In the cases with HCM, on the other hand, the bifurcation moved 2.2 +/- 1.1, 2.7 +/- 1.2 and 2.2 +/- 0.6 cm during systole, respectively. The movement at the apex in the normal subjects was 1.7 +/- 0.2 cm rightward, 1.5 +/- 0.2 cm caudally and 1.5 +/- 0.2 cm posteriorly, although the direction was reversed as compared to that of the anterior wall of the cardiac base. The amplitude of the excursion was also reduced at the apex, suggesting the systolic twist of the ventricular wall. The excursion of the apex in HCM was 0.6 +/- 1.7, 1.5 +/- 1.8 and 2.5 +/- 1.4 cm, respectively, toward the base of the heart as in the normal subjects. The maximum speeds of these motions were 34.0 +/- 9.2 cm/sec leftward, caudally and anteriory at the anterior-basal point and 36.2 +/- 7.3 cm/sec rightward, caudally and posteriorly in the normal subjects.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Experimental determination of drag coefficients in low-density polyurethane foam

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

Adams, M L

2006-04-18

We describe several experiments performed at the LLNL Site 300 firing range and on the LLNL 1/3 scale gun to investigate the deceleration of small projectiles (l {approx} 3-5 [mm]) in low-density foam ({rho} {approx} 0.08-0.32 [g/cm{sup 3}]). The experiments at the firing range researched a passive velocity diagnostic based on Faraday's law of induction, while experiments on the 1/3 scale gun investigated the effects of varying projectile surface area, projectile shape, and foam density on the drag coefficient c{sub d}. Analysis shows that the velocity diagnostic has an uncertainty on the order of 1 percent for projectiles with velocitymore » v {approx} 0.8-1.2 [km/s]. The 1/3 scale gun experiments, dubbed the Krispy Kreme series, included nine shots considering the combinations of 3 projectile surface areas with 3 target densities. The experiments used Tantalum square surface area block projectiles (with an initial velocity v{sub 0} {approx} 1.2 [km/s], a common thickness T = 2.67 [mm], and square side lengths of 3, 4, and 5 [mm]) decelerating in polyurethane foams (with densities {rho}{sub f} of 0.08, 0.16 and 0.32 [g/cm{sup 3}]). Standard fluid models of the Krispy Kreme experiments predict Reynolds numbers Re {approx} 10{sup 5} - 10{sup 6}, Mach numbers Ma {approx} 0.5-2.0, and drag coefficients c{sub d} {approx} 2-3. However, the data indicate that c{sub d} = 1.1-1.2 (c{sub d} = 1.7) for all three block projectiles in the 0.08 and 0.16 [g/cm{sup 3}] targets (0.32 [g/cm{sup 3}] target). First, we conclude that the drag force on projectiles in solid polyurethane foam is less than in fluids with equivalent dimensionless parameters. This result is also supported by an additional Krispy Kreme experiment that used a disk projectile (with diameter d = 4.51 [mm] and thickness T = 2.67 [mm]) penetrating a target with density {rho} = 0.16 [g/cm{sup 3}], i.e., the fluid-like c{sub d} = 1.15 while the measured c{sub d} = 0.63. Second, we conclude that the measured drag coefficient in the lower density foam targets is less than in the larger density foam target. This result is corroborated by firing range experiments with M855 NATO bullets (with diameter 5.56 [mm], mass 4.1 [g], and initial velocity {nu}{sub 0} {approx} 800 [m/s]) fired from an M16 rifle, i.e., c{sub d} = 0.3 (c{sub d} = 0.6) in the 0.16 [g/cm{sup 3}] (0.32 [g/cm{sup 3}]) target. We propose future 1/3 scale gun experiments using a passive velocity diagnostic with increased spatial resolution as well as simple spherical projectiles with 0.5 and 1.0 [cm] diameters.« less

Volumetric Growth of the Liver in the Human Fetus: An Anatomical, Hydrostatic, and Statistical Study.

PubMed

Szpinda, Michał; Paruszewska-Achtel, Monika; Woźniak, Alina; Mila-Kierzenkowska, Celestyna; Elminowska-Wenda, Gabriela; Dombek, Małgorzata; Szpinda, Anna; Badura, Mateusz

2015-01-01

Using anatomical, hydrostatic, and statistical methods, liver volumes were assessed in 69 human fetuses of both sexes aged 18-30 weeks. No sex differences were found. The median of liver volume achieved by hydrostatic measurements increased from 6.57 cm(3) at 18-21 weeks through 14.36 cm(3) at 22-25 weeks to 20.77 cm(3) at 26-30 weeks, according to the following regression: y = -26.95 + 1.74 × age ± Z × (-3.15 + 0.27 × age). The median of liver volume calculated indirectly according to the formula liver volume = 0.55 × liver length × liver transverse diameter × liver sagittal diameter increased from 12.41 cm(3) at 18-21 weeks through 28.21 cm(3) at 22-25 weeks to 49.69 cm(3) at 26-30 weeks. There was a strong relationship (r = 0.91, p < 0.001) between the liver volumes achieved by hydrostatic (x) and indirect (y) methods, expressed by y = -0.05 + 2.16x ± 7.26. The liver volume should be calculated as follows liver volume = 0.26 × liver length × liver transverse diameter × liver sagittal diameter. The age-specific liver volumes are of great relevance in the evaluation of the normal hepatic growth and the early diagnosis of fetal micro- and macrosomias.

VS of the uppermost crust structure of the Campi Flegrei caldera (southern Italy) from ambient noise Rayleigh wave analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costanzo, M. R.; Nunziata, C.; Strollo, R.

2017-11-01

Shear wave velocities (VS) are defined in the uppermost 1-2 km of the Campi Flegrei caldera through the non-linear inversion of the group velocity dispersion curves of fundamental-mode Rayleigh waves extracted from ambient noise cross-correlations between two receivers. Noise recordings, three months long, at 12 seismic stations are cross-correlated between all couples of stations. The experiment provided successful results along 54 paths (inter-stations distance), of which 27 sampled a depth > 1 km. VS contour lines are drawn from 0.06 km b.s.l. to 1 km depth b.s.l. and show difference between the offshore (gulf of Pozzuoli and coastline) and the onshore areas. At 0.06 km b.s.l., the gulf of Pozzuoli and the coastline are characterized by VS of 0.3-0.5 km/s and of 0.5-0.7 km/s, respectively. Such velocities are typical of Neapolitan pyroclastic soils and fractured or altered tuffs. The inland shows VS in the range 0.7-0.9 km/s, typical of Neapolitan compact tuffs. Velocities increase with depth and, at 1 km depth b.s.l., velocities lower than 1.5 km/s are still present in the gulf and along the coastline while velocities higher than 1.9 km/s characterize the eastern sector (grossly coincident with the Neapolitan Yellow Tuff caldera rim), the S. Vito plain and the area between Solfatara and SW of Astroni. Such features are much more evident along two cross-sections drawn in the offshore and onshore sectors by integrating our VS models with literature data. Our models join previous noise cross-correlation studies at greater scale at depths of 0.7-0.8 km, hence the picture of the Campi Flegrei caldera is shown up to a depth of 15 km. VS of about 1.7 km/s, corresponding to compression velocities (VP) of about 3 km/s (computed by using the VP/VS ratio resulted in the inversion), are found at depths of 1.1 km, in the centre of the gulf of Pozzuoli, and at a depth of about 0.7 km b.s.l. onshore. An increment of VS velocity ( 1.9-2.0 km/s) is locally observed onshore which might be attributed to a layer of tuffs and tuffites interbedded with thin lava beds, according to the correlation of VS with stratigraphies in the deep drillings of S. Vito.

Microwave Ablation Compared with Radiofrequency Ablation for Breast Tissue in an Ex Vivo Bovine Udder Model

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

Tanaka, Toshihiro, E-mail: toshihir@bf6.so-net.ne.jp; Westphal, Saskia, E-mail: swestphal@ukaachen.de; Isfort, Peter, E-mail: isfort@hia.rwth-aachen.de

2012-08-15

Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of microwave (MW) ablation with radiofrequency (RF) ablation for treating breast tissue in a nonperfused ex vivo model of healthy bovine udder tissue. Materials and Methods: MW ablations were performed at power outputs of 25W, 35W, and 45W using a 915-MHz frequency generator and a 2-cm active tip antenna. RF ablations were performed with a bipolar RF system with 2- and 3-cm active tip electrodes. Tissue temperatures were continuously monitored during ablation. Results: The mean short-axis diameters of the coagulation zones were 1.34 {+-} 0.14, 1.45 {+-} 0.13, and 1.74 {+-} 0.11 cm for MWmore » ablation at outputs of 25W, 35W, and 45W. For RF ablation, the corresponding values were 1.16 {+-} 0.09 and 1.26 {+-} 0.14 cm with electrodes having 2- and 3-cm active tips, respectively. The mean coagulation volumes were 2.27 {+-} 0.65, 2.85 {+-} 0.72, and 4.45 {+-} 0.47 cm{sup 3} for MW ablation at outputs of 25W, 35W, and 45W and 1.18 {+-} 0.30 and 2.29 {+-} 0.55 cm{sup 3} got RF ablation with 2- and 3-cm electrodes, respectively. MW ablations at 35W and 45W achieved significantly longer short-axis diameters than RF ablations (P < 0.05). The highest tissue temperature was achieved with MW ablation at 45W (P < 0.05). On histological examination, the extent of the ablation zone in MW ablations was less affected by tissue heterogeneity than that in RF ablations. Conclusion: MW ablation appears to be advantageous with respect to the volume of ablation and the shape of the margin of necrosis compared with RF ablation in an ex vivo bovine udder.« less

Assessment of extreme quantitative precipitation forecasts and development of regional extreme event thresholds using data from HMT-2006 and COOP observers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ralph, F.M.; Sukovich, E.; Reynolds, D.; Dettinger, M.; Weagle, S.; Clark, W.; Neiman, P.J.

2010-01-01

Extreme precipitation events, and the quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) associated with them, are examined. The study uses data from the Hydrometeorology Testbed (HMT), which conducted its first field study in California during the 2005/06 cool season. National Weather Service River Forecast Center (NWS RFC) gridded QPFs for 24-h periods at 24-h (day 1), 48-h (day 2), and 72-h (day 3) forecast lead times plus 24-h quantitative precipitation estimates (QPEs) fromsites in California (CA) and Oregon-Washington (OR-WA) are used. During the 172-day period studied, some sites received more than 254 cm (100 in.) of precipitation. The winter season produced many extreme precipitation events, including 90 instances when a site received more than 7.6 cm (3.0 in.) of precipitation in 24 h (i.e., an "event") and 17 events that exceeded 12.7 cm (24 h)-1 [5.0 in. (24 h)-1]. For the 90 extreme events f.7.6 cm (24 h)-1 [3.0 in. (24 h)-1]g, almost 90% of all the 270 QPFs (days 1-3) were biased low, increasingly so with greater lead time. Of the 17 observed events exceeding 12.7 cm (24 h)-1 [5.0 in. (24 h)-1], only 1 of those events was predicted to be that extreme. Almost all of the extreme events correlated with the presence of atmospheric river conditions. Total seasonal QPF biases for all events fi.e., $0.025 cm (24 h)-1 [0.01 in. (24 h)-1]g were sensitive to local geography and were generally biased low in the California-Nevada River Forecast Center (CNRFC) region and high in the Northwest River Forecast Center(NWRFC) domain. The low bias in CA QPFs improved with shorter forecast lead time and worsened for extreme events. Differences were also noted between the CNRFC and NWRFC in terms of QPF and the frequency of extreme events. A key finding from this study is that there were more precipitation events .7.6 cm (24 h)-1 [3.0 in. (24 h)21] in CA than in OR-WA. Examination of 422 Cooperative Observer Program (COOP) sites in the NWRFC domain and 400 in the CNRFC domain found that the thresholds for the top 1% and top 0.1%of precipitation events were 7.6 cm (24 h)21 [3.0 in. (24 h)-1] and 14.2 cm (24 h)-1 [5.6 in. (24 h)-1] or greater for the CNRFC and only 5.1 cm (24 h)-1 [2.0 in. (24 h)-1] and 9.4 cm (24 h)-1 [3.7 in. (24 h)-1] for the NWRFC, respectively. Similar analyses for all NWS RFCs showed that the threshold for the top 1% of events varies from;3.8 cm (24 h)-1 [1.5 in. (24 h)-1] in the Colorado Basin River Forecast Center (CBRFC) to~5.1 cm (24 h)-1 [3.0 in. (24 h)-1] in the northern tier of RFCs and;7.6 cm (24 h)-1 [3.0 in. (24 h)-1] in both the southern tier and the CNRFC. It is recommended that NWS QPF performance in the future be assessed for extreme events using these thresholds. ?? 2010 American Meteorological Society.

Identification of the HNO3 3 nu(sub 9) - nu(sub 9) band Q branch in stratospheric solar occultation spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perrin, A.; Flaud, J.-M.; Camy-Peyret, C.; Goldman, A.; Rinsland, C. P.; Gunson, M. R.

1994-01-01

The spectroscopic identification for the HNO3 3 nu(sub 9) - nu(sub 9) band Q branch at 830.4/cm is reported based on 0.01/cm resolution solar occultation spectra of the lower stratosphere recorded by the Atmospheric Trace Molecule Spectroscopy (ATMOS) Fourier transform spectrometer and a recent analysis of this band. Least-squares fits to 0.0025/cm resolution laboratory spectra in the Q branch region indicate an integrated intensity of 0.529 x 10(exp -18)/cm/mol/sq cm at 296 K for this weak band. Stratospheric HNO3 retrievals derived from the ATMOS data are consistent with this value within its estimated uncertainty of about +/- 30%. A set of spectroscopic line parameters suitable for atmospheric studies has been generated.

[Embryo volume estimated by three-dimensional ultrasonography at seven to ten weeks of pregnancy].

PubMed

Filho, João Bortoletti; Nardozza, Luciano Marcondes Machado; Araujo Júnior, Edward; Rôlo, Líliam Cristine; Nowak, Paulo Martin; Moron, Antonio Fernandes

2008-10-01

to evaluate the embryo's volume (EV) between the seventh and the tenth gestational week, through tridimensional ultrasonography. a transversal study with 63 normal pregnant women between the seventh and the tenth gestational week. The ultrasonographical exams have been performed with a volumetric abdominal transducer. Virtual Organ Computer-aided Analysis (VOCAL) has been used to calculate EV, with a rotation angle of 12 masculine and a delimitation of 15 sequential slides. The average, median, standard deviation and maximum and minimum values have been calculated for the EV in all the gestational ages. A dispersion graphic has been drawn to assess the correlation between EV and the craniogluteal length (CGL), the adjustment being done by the determination coefficient (R(2)). To determine EV's reference intervals as a function of the CGL, the following formula was used: percentile=EV+K versus SD, with K=1.96. CGL has varied from 9.0 to 39.7 mm, with an average of 23.9 mm (+/-7.9 mm), while EV has varied from 0.1 to 7.6 cm(3), with an average of 2.7 cm(3) (+/-3.2 cm(3)). EV was highly correlated to CGL, the best adjustment being obtained with quadratic regression (EV=0.2-0.055 versus CGL+0.005 versus CGL(2); R(2)=0.8). The average EV has varied from 0.1 (-0.3 to 0.5 cm(3)) to 6.7 cm(3) (3.8 to 9.7 cm(3)) within the interval of 9 to 40 mm of CGL. EV has increased 67 times in this interval, while CGL, only 4.4 times. EV is a more sensitive parameter than CGL to evaluate embryo growth between the seventh and the tenth week of gestation.

[APPLICATION OF WRIST CREASE ISLAND FLAP BASED ON THE SUPERFICIAL PALMAR BRANCH OF THE RADIAL ARTERY FOR THUMB RECONSTRUCTION].

PubMed

Zheng Dawei; Li, Zhangcan; Xu, Li; Zhang, Xuyang; Shi, Rongjian; Sun, Feng; Shou, Kuishui

2015-04-01

To investigate the effectiveness of the island flaps based on the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery (SPBRA) to repair the thumb wound. Between February 2012 and November 2013, 8 cases of thumb defects and bilateral artery defect were treated. There were 5 males and 3 females with an average age of 30.5 years (range, 19-51 years). The injury was caused by crush (4 cases), avulsion (3 cases), and twist (1 case). The injury located at the metacarpophalangeal joints in 3 cases, at the proximal palmar side in 2 cases, and at the interphalangeal joints in 3 cases. The defect size ranged from 3.5 cm x 1.5 cm to 6.5 cm x 2.0 cm. The digital artery defect was 2.5-8.5 cm (mean, 5.3 cm). The disease duration was 2.0-4.5 hours (mean, 3.2 hours). The reversed island flaps based on the SPBRA were designed, which size was 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm to 7.5 cm x 3.0 cm. The donor sites were closed directly. The operation was successfully completed in 7 patients except 1 patient having vascular variation. All flaps survived completely. Wound and incision at the donor site healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-18 months (mean, 13 months). The flaps had similar color and texture to adjacent skin. Linear scar was seen at the donor site in 1 patient, with no functional limitation. According to the functional assessment criteria of upper limb by the Hand Surgery Branch of Chinese Medical Association, the results were excellent in 6 cases, good in 1 case, and fair in 1 case, with an excellent and good rate of 87.5%. The reversed island flap based on the SPBRA is an ideal flap for the thumb reconstruction because the advantages of reliable blood supply, easy dissection, less injury at donor site, and good repair results.

Differences in cortical development assessed by fetal MRI in late-onset intrauterine growth restriction.

PubMed

Egaña-Ugrinovic, Gabriela; Sanz-Cortes, Magdalena; Figueras, Francesc; Bargalló, Nuria; Gratacós, Eduard

2013-08-01

The objective of the study was to evaluate cortical development parameters by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in late-onset intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses and normally grown fetuses. A total of 52 IUGR and 50 control fetuses were imaged using a 3T MRI scanner at 37 weeks of gestational age. T2 half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo anatomical acquisitions were obtained in 3 planes. Cortical sulcation (fissures depth corrected by biparietal diameter), brain volumetry, and asymmetry indices were assessed by means of manual delineation and compared between cases and controls. Late-onset IUGR fetuses had significantly deeper measurements in the left insula (late-onset IUGR: 0.293 vs control: 0.267; P = .02) and right insula (0.379 vs 0.318; P < .01) and the left cingulate fissure (0.096 vs 0.087; P = .03) and significantly lower intracranial (441.25 cm(3) vs 515.82 cm(3); P < .01), brain (276.47 cm(3) vs 312.07 cm(3); P < .01), and left opercular volumes (2.52 cm(3) vs 3.02 cm(3); P < .01). IUGR fetuses showed significantly higher right insular asymmetry indices. Late-onset IUGR fetuses had a different pattern of cortical development assessed by MRI, supporting the existence of in utero brain reorganization. Cortical development could be useful to define fetal brain imaging-phenotypes characteristic of IUGR. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

The influence of high-heeled shoes on strain and tension force of the anterior talofibular ligament and plantar fascia during balanced standing and walking.

PubMed

Yu, Jia; Wong, Duo Wai-Chi; Zhang, Hongtao; Luo, Zong-Ping; Zhang, Ming

2016-10-01

High-heeled shoes have the capability to alter the strain and tension of ligamentous structures between the foot and ankle, which may result in ankle instability. However, high-heeled shoes can also reduce the strain on plantar fascia, which may be beneficial for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. In this study, the influence of heel height on strain and tension force applied to the anterior talofibular ligament (ATL) and plantar fascia were investigated. A three-dimensional finite element model of coupled foot-ankle-shoe complex was constructed. Four heel heights were studied in balanced standing: 0 in. (0cm), 1 in. (2.54cm), 2 in. (5.08cm), and 3 in. (7.62cm). A walking analysis was performed using 2-in. (5.08cm) high-heeled shoes. During balanced standing, the tension force on the ATL increased from 14.8N to 97.0N, with a six-fold increase in strain from 0 in. to 3 in. (0-7.62cm). The tension force and the average strain on the plantar fascia decreased from 151.0N (strain: 0.74%) to 59.6N (strain: 0.28%) when the heel height increased from 0 in. to 2 in. (0-5.08cm). When heel height reached 3 in. (7.62cm), the force and average strain increased to 278.3N (strain: 1.33%). The walking simulation showed that the fascia stretched out while the ATL loading decreased during push off. The simulation outcome demonstrated the influence of heel height on ATL alteration and plantar fascia strain, which implies risks for ankle injury and suggests guidance for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Copyright © 2016 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Attachment of Salmonella serovars and Listeria monocytogenes to stainless steel and plastic conveyor belts.

PubMed

Veluz, G A; Pitchiah, S; Alvarado, C Z

2012-08-01

In poultry industry, cross-contamination due to processing equipment and contact surfaces is very common. This study examined the extent of bacterial attachment to 6 different types and design of conveyor belts: stainless steel-single loop, stainless steel-balance weave, polyurethane with mono-polyester fabric, acetal, polypropylene mesh top, and polypropylene. Clean conveyor belts were immersed separately in either a cocktail of Salmonella serovars (Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Enteritidis) or Listeria monocytogenes strains (Scott A, Brie 1, ATCC 6744) for 1 h at room temperature. Soiled conveyor chips were dipped in poultry rinses contaminated with Salmonella or Listeria cocktail and incubated at 10°C for 48 h. The polyurethane with mono-polyester fabric conveyor belt and chip exhibited a higher (P<0.05) mean number of attached Salmonella serovars (clean: 1.6 to 3.6 cfu/cm2; soiled: 0.8 to 2.4 cfu/cm2) and L. monocytogenes (clean: 4.0 to 4.3 cfu/cm2; soiled: 0.3 to 2.1 cfu/cm2) in both clean and soiled conditions. The stainless steel conveyor belt attached a lower (P<0.05) number of Salmonella serovars (clean: 0 to 2.6 cfu/cm2; soiled: 0.4 to 1.3 cfu/cm2) and L. monocytogenes (clean: 0.4 to 2.9 cfu/cm2; soiled: 0 to 0.7 cfu/cm2) than the polymeric materials, indicating weaker adhesion properties. Plastic conveyor belts exhibited stronger bacterial adhesion compared with stainless steel. The result suggests the importance of selecting the design and finishes of conveyor belt materials that are most resistant to bacterial attachment.

The role of rigid vs. dynamic instrumentation for stabilization of the degenerative lumbosacral spine.

PubMed

Korovessis, Panagiotis; Papazisis, Zisis; Lambiris, Elias

2002-01-01

This is a prospective comparative randomised study to compare the immediately postoperative effects of a rigid versus dynamic instrumentation for degenerative spine disease and stenosis on the standing sagittal lumbar spine alignment and to investigate if a dynamic spine system can replace the commonly used rigid systems in order to avoid the above mentioned disadvantages of rigid fixation. 15 randomly selected patients received the rigid instrumentation SCS and an equal number of randomly selected patients the dynamic TWINFLEX device for spinal stenosis associated degenerative lumbar disease. The age of the patients, who received rigid and dynamic instrumentation was 65 +/- 9 years and 62 +/- 10 years respectively. All patients had standing spine radiographs preoperatively and three months postoperatively. The parameters that were measured and compared pre- to postoperatively were: lumbar lordosis (L1-S1), total lumbar lordosis (T12-S1), sacral tilt, distal lordosis (L4-S1), intervertebral angulation, vertebral inclination and disc index. The instrumented levels in the spines that received rigid and dynamic instrumentation were 3.5 +/- 0.53 and 3 +/- 0.7 respectively. The instrumented levels from L3 to L5 were 23, the lumbosacral junction was instrumented in 3 patients of group A and in 4 patients of group B. Lumbar lordosis did not significantly change postoperatively, while total lordosis was significantly (P=0.04) increased in the patients who received the rigid instrumentation, while it was significantly (P=0.012) decreased in the group B. Intervertebral angulation of the non-instrumented level L1-L2 was increased in the group A (P=0.01), while the dynamic instrumentation increased (P=0.02) the intervertebral inclination of the adjacent level L2-L3, immediately above the uppermost instrumented level. Distal lordosis and sacral tilt did not change in any patient in both groups. Both instrumentations did not change the lateral vertebral inclination of L1 to L5 vertebrae. Rigid instrumentation increased the lordotic inclination of L5 (P=0.03) and of S1 (P=0.03). Rigid instrumentation increased (P=0.04) the intervertebral angulation at the uppermost instrumented level L3-L4 The most significant change in vertebral angulation was achieved at the instrumented level L4-L5 by the dynamic (P=0.007) and rigid (0.05). The disc index at the level L2-L3 was increased by both instrumentation [dynamic P=0.007 and rigid (P=0.02)]. The index L3-L4 was increased following dynamic fixation (P=0.0007). The disc index L4-L5 was postoperatively increased by both types of instrumentation (rigid P=0.006, dynamic P=0.02). The disc index L5-S1 did not significantly change postoperatively by either system. Both rigid and dynamic instrumentations restored lumbar lordosis, sacral tilt, distal lordosis and increased the foraminal diameter at the level L4-L5 resulting in an indirect decompression of the nerve roots at this level . Both rigid and dynamic instrumentations applied in the lumbosacral spine to treat degenerative disease secured L3 to S1 sagittal spine profile close to preoperative levels, that should theoretically guarantee a pain-free postoperative course. This study supports the belief that the dynamic system can be used with the same indications with the rigid in degenerative lumbar spine because it can offer equally good short-term results regarding sagittal spine alignment while simultaneously it has the previously mentioned advantages (avoidance stress shielding etc).

Decompression of tension pneumothoraces in Asian trauma patients: greater success with lateral approach and longer catheter lengths based on computed tomography chest wall measurements.

PubMed

Goh, S; Xu, W R; Teo, L T

2017-10-03

Our study aims to compare the anterior and lateral approaches for needle thoracostomy (NT) and determine the adequacy of catheter lengths used for NT in Asian trauma patients based on computed tomography chest wall measurements. A retrospective review of chest computed tomography scans of 583 Singaporean trauma patients during period of 2011-2015 was conducted. Four measurements of chest wall thickness (CWT) were taken at the second intercostal space, midclavicular line and fifth intercostal space, midaxillary line bilaterally. Measurements were from the superficial skin layer of the chest wall to the pleural space. Successful NT was defined radiologically as CWT ≤ 5 cm. There were 593 eligible subjects. Mean age was 49.1 years (49.1 ± 21.0). Majority were males (77.0%) and Chinese (70.2%). Mean CWT for the anterior approach was 4.04 cm (CI 3.19-4.68) on the left and 3.92 cm (CI 3.17-4.63) on the right. Mean CWT for the lateral approach was 3.52 cm (CI 2.52-4.36) on the left, and 3.62 cm (CI 3.65-4.48) on the right. Mean CWT was shorter in the lateral approach by 0.52 cm on the left and 0.30 cm on the right (p = 0.001). With a 5.0 cm catheter in the anterior approach, 925 out of 1186 sites (78.8%) will have adequate NT as compared to 98.2% with a 7.0 cm catheter. Similarly, in the lateral approach 1046 out of 1186 (88.2%) will have adequate NT as compared to 98.5% with a 7.0 cm catheter. Obese subjects had significantly higher mean CWT in both approaches (p = 0.001). There was moderate correlation between BMI and CWT in the anterior approach, r 2  = 0.529 as compared to the lateral approach, r 2  = 0.244. Needle decompression using the lateral approach or a longer catheter is more likely to succeed in Asian trauma patients. A high BMI is an independent predictor of failure of NT, especially for the anterior as compared to lateral approach.

Characteristics of sediment resuspension in Lake Taihu, China: A wave flume study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Yanqing; Sun, Limin; Qin, Boqiang; Wu, Tingfeng; Shen, Xia; Wang, Yongping

2018-06-01

Lake Taihu is a typical shallow lake which frequently happens sediment resuspension induced by wind-induced waves. The experiments are carried on to simulate the wave disturbance processes in wave flume by setting a series of wave periods (1.2 s, 1.5 s, 1.8 s) and wave heights (2 cm, 10 cm). It aims to analyze the characteristics of sediment resuspension and the mechanisms of nutrients release and to evaluate the effects of sediment dredging on sediment resuspension and nutrients release in Lake Taihu. The results show that wave shear stress during 2 cm and 10 cm wave height processes ranges 0.018-0.023 N/m2 and 0.221-0.307 N/m2, respectively. Wave shear stress has no significant differences between wave periods. Wave height has much more effects on sediment resuspension. Wave height of 2 cm could induce total suspended solids (TSS) reaching up to 5.21 g/m2 and resuspension flux of sediment (M) up to 1.74 g/m2. TSS sharply increases to 30.33-52.41 g/m2 and M reached up to 48.94 g/m2 when wave height reaches to 10 cm. The disturbance depth under different sediment bulk weights ranges from 0.089 to 0.161 mm. Variation of suspended solids in 3 layers (1 cm, 5 cm, 20 cm above sediment interface) has no significant differences. Organic matter, TN and TP have positive relationship with SS. Organic matter is only accounted for 5.7%-7.3% of SS. The experiments under different sediment bulk densities (1.34 g/cm3, 1.47 g/cm3 and 1.59 g/cm3) find that TSS and M fall by 44.2% and 39.8% with sediment bulk density increasing, respectively. Total TN, DTN, TP and DTP decrease by 24.3%-33.6%. It indicates that sediment dredging could effectively reduce SS concentration and nutrient levels in water column. The researches provide a theoretical basis for sediment dredging to control the shore zone of Lake Taihu for lake management.

Rotationally resolved state-to-state photoionization and the photoelectron study of vanadium monocarbide and its cations (VC/VC(+)).

PubMed

Chang, Yih Chung; Luo, Zhihong; Pan, Yi; Zhang, Zheng; Song, Ying-Nan; Kuang, Sophie Yajin; Yin, Qing Zhu; Lau, Kai-Chung; Ng, C Y

2015-04-21

By employing two-color visible (VIS)-ultraviolet (UV) laser photoionization and pulsed field ionization-photoelectron (PFI-PE) techniques, we have obtained highly rotationally resolved photoelectron spectra for vanadium monocarbide cations (VC(+)). The state-to-state VIS-UV-PFI-PE spectra thus obtained allow unambiguous assignments for the photoionization rotational transitions, resulting in a highly precise value for the adiabatic ionization energy (IE) of vanadium monocarbide (VC), IE(VC) = 57512.0 ± 0.8 cm(-1) (7.13058 ± 0.00010 eV), which is defined as the energy of the VC(+)(X(3)Δ1; v(+) = 0; J(+) = 1) ← VC(X(2)Δ3/2; v'' = 0; J'' = 3/2) photoionization transition. The spectroscopic constants for VC(+)(X(3)Δ1) determined in the present study include the harmonic vibrational frequency ωe(+) = 896.4 ± 0.8 cm(-1), the anharmonicity constant ωe(+)xe(+) = 5.7 ± 0.8 cm(-1), the rotational constants Be(+) = 0.6338 ± 0.0025 cm(-1) and αe(+) = 0.0033 ± 0.0007 cm(-1), the equilibrium bond length re(+) = 1.6549 ± 0.0003 Å, and the spin-orbit coupling constant A = 75.2 ± 0.8 cm(-1) for VC(+)(X(3)Δ1,2,3). These highly precise energetic and spectroscopic data are used to benchmark state-of-the-art CCSDTQ/CBS calculations. In general, good agreement is found between the theoretical predictions and experimental results. The theoretical calculations yield the values, IE(VC) = 7.126 eV; the 0 K bond dissociation energies: D0(V-C) = 4.023 eV and D0(V(+)-C) = 3.663 eV; and heats of formation: ΔH°(f0)(VC) = 835.2, ΔH°(f298)(VC) = 840.4, ΔH°(f0)(VC(+)) = 1522.8, and ΔH°(f298)(VC(+)) = 1528.0 kJ mol(-1).

Integration of 3D imaging data in the assessment of aortic stenosis: impact on classification of disease severity.

PubMed

O'Brien, Bridget; Schoenhagen, Paul; Kapadia, Samir R; Svensson, Lars G; Rodriguez, Leonardo; Griffin, Brian P; Tuzcu, E Murat; Desai, Milind Y

2011-09-01

In patients with aortic stenosis (AS), precise assessment of severity is critical for treatment decisions. Estimation of aortic valve area (AVA) with transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE)-continuity equation (CE) assumes a circular left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT). We evaluated incremental utility of 3D multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) over TTE assessment of AS severity. We included 51 patients (age, 81±8 years; 61% men; mean gradient, 42 ± 12 mm Hg) with calcific AS who underwent evaluation for treatment options. TTE parameters included systolic LVOT diameter (D) and continuous and pulsed wave (CW and PW) velocity-time integrals (VTI) through the LVOT and mean transaortic gradient. MDCT parameters included systolic LVOT area, ratio of maximal to minimal LVOT diameter (eccentricity index), and aortic planimetry (AVA(p)). TTE-CE AVA [(D(2)×0.786×VTIpw)/VTIcw] and dimensionless index (DI) [VTIpw/VTIcw] were calculated. Corrected AVA was calculated by substituting MDCT LVOT area into CE. The majority (96%) of patients had eccentric LVOT. LVOT area, measured on MDCT, was higher than on TTE (3.84 ± 0.8 cm(2) versus 3.03 ± 0.5 cm(2), P<0.01). TTE-AVA was smaller than AVA(p) and corrected AVA (0.67 ± 0.1cm(2), 0.82 ± 0.3 cm(2), and 0.86 ± 0.3 cm(2), P<0.01). Using TTE measurements alone, 73% of patients had congruence for severe AS (DI ≤0.25 and CE AVA <0.8 cm(2)), which increased to 92% using corrected CE. In patients with suspected severe AS, incorporation of MDCT-LVOT area into CE improves congruence for AS severity.

The (FHCl)- molecular anion - Structural aspects, global surface, and vibrational eigenspectrum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klepeis, Neil E.; East, Allan L. L.; Csaszar, Attila G.; Allen, Wesley D.; Lee, Timothy J.; Schwenke, David W.

1993-01-01

State of the art ab initio electronic structure methods have been used to investigate the (FHCl)- molecular anion. It is proposed that the geometric structure and binding energies of the complex are r(e)(H-F) = 0.963 +/- 0.003 A, R(e)(H-Cl) = 1.925 +/- 0.015 A, and D0(HF + Cl(-)) = 21.8 +/- 0.4 kcal/mol. A Morokuma decomposition of the ion-molecular bonding give the following electrostatic, polarization, exchange repulsion, dispersion, and charge-transfer plus higher-order mixing components of the vibrationless complexation energy: -27.3, -5.2, +18.3, -4.5, and -5.0 kcal/mol, respectively. A couples cluster single and doubles global surface is constructed from 208 and 228 energy points for linear and bent configurations, respectively, these being fit to rms errors of only 3.9 and 9.3/cm, respectively, below 8000/cm. Converged J = 0 and J = 1 variational eigenstates of the (FHCl)- surface to near the HF + Cl(-) dissociation threshold are determined. The fundamental vibrational frequencies are found to be nu1 = 247/cm, nu2 = 876/cm, and nu3 = 2884/cm. The complete vibrational eigenspectrum is analyzed.

Liver Resection versus Radiofrequency Ablation plus Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization in Cirrhotic Patients with Solitary Large Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

PubMed

Saviano, Antonio; Iezzi, Roberto; Giuliante, Felice; Salvatore, Lucia; Mele, Caterina; Posa, Alessandro; Ardito, Francesco; De Gaetano, Anna Maria; Pompili, Maurizio

2017-11-01

To compare liver resection (LR) with single-step, balloon-occluded radiofrequency (RF) ablation plus drug-eluting embolics transarterial chemoembolization in cirrhotic patients with single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ≥ 3 cm. From 2010 to 2014, 25 patients with compensated cirrhosis and single HCC ≥ 3 cm (median size 4.5 cm; range, 3.0-6.8 cm) not suitable for LR or liver transplantation were treated with RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization in a prospective observational single-center pilot study; all patients had complete tumor necrosis after treatment. A retrospective control group included 29 patients (median HCC size 4.0 cm; range, 3.0-7.4 cm) who underwent LR. RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization group included more patients with severe portal hypertension (65.5% vs 35.0%, P = .017). Primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and tumor recurrence (TR) rates. One death and 1 major complication (4%) were observed in LR group. No major complications were reported in RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization group (P = .463). OS rates at 1 and 3 years were 91.8% and 79.3% in LR group and 89.4% and 48.2% in RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization group (P = 0.117). TR rates at 1 and 3 years were 29.5% and 45.0% in LR group and 42.4% and 76.0% in RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization group (P = .034). Local tumor progression (LTP) rates at 3 years were significantly lower in LR group (21.8% vs 58.1%, P = .005). Similar results were found in patients with HCC ≤ 5 cm (TR rates 35.4% vs 75.1%, P = .016; LTP 16.0% vs 55.7%, P = .013). LR achieved lower TR and LTP rates than RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization, but 3-years OS rates were not statistically different between the 2 groups. RF ablation plus transarterial chemoembolization is an effective treatment option in patients with compensated cirrhosis and solitary HCC ≥ 3 cm unsuitable for LR. Copyright © 2017 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Statictical Study of 3He Enhancement in the High-Energy Solar Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laivola, Jarno; Torsti, J.; Kocharov, L.

2003-07-01

Energetic particle observations of the ERNE instrument (the Energetic and Relativistic Nuclei and Electron experiment) onboard the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory enable the measurements of the 3 He flux beyond 15 MeV nucleon-1 with a good statistical resolution. An overview of the ERNE observations for the period from 8 February 1999 to 7 December 2000 is reported and a comprehensive statistical study is performed to learn regularities of 3 He enhancements in the high-energy range of 15-30 MeV nucleon -1 . Significant intensities of 3 He are detected in all event days with 4 He intensity exceeding ≈ 0.5 ion per (m2 s sr MeV nucleon-1 ). The abundance ratio 3 He/4 He is measured to vary within the range ˜ 0.003-2, which is well above the corresponding solar wind value. A histogram of the daily 3 He/4 He ratio reveals a sharp maximum at 3 He/4 He ≈ 0.01. Observations and analysis The early studies of the 3 He-rich solar energetic particle (SEP) events are mostly made in low energies, ˜ 1 MeV nucleon-1 , (Ko charov & Ko charov 1984, Reames, Meyer, & von Rosenvinge 1994, and references therein) but some measurements beyond 10 MeV nucleon-1 has been also carried out (Clayton, Guzik, & Wefel 2000, Bakaldin et al. 2003, Torsti et al. 2002, 2003, and references therein). This survey of SEP events is based on the particle flux measurements by ERNE/HED particle telescope (Torsti et al. 1995) from 8 February 1999 till 7 December 2000. Both helium isotop es, 3 He and 4 He, were detected in the energy channel 15-30 MeV nucleon-1 and the average geometric factor for the studied isotop es in this channel is 30.5 cm2 sr. During the selected period there were some data gaps lasting from few hours to couple of days when either the spacecraft, or more often, the instrument was not in the observation mode. There were also a couple of strong solar events, like the events in 14 July 2000 and 9 November 2000, producing the extreme particle fluxes exceeding the analysis capacity of ERNE. In those o ccasions, the data have been excluded from the analysis. Figure 1 plots time profiles of 3 He and 4 He daily count rates during 19992000. The slowly-changing line in the uppermost panel shows a lower limit for

Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on seedling growth and development of two wetland plants, Bidens frondosa L., and Eclipta prostrata (L.) L., grown under three levels of water availability.

PubMed

Stevens, Kevin J; Wall, Christopher B; Janssen, Joel A

2011-05-01

To identify the importance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonizing wetland seedlings following flooding, we assessed the effects of AMF on seedling establishment of two pioneer species, Bidens frondosa and Eclipta prostrata grown under three levels of water availability and ask: (1) Do inoculated seedlings differ in growth and development from non-inoculated plants? (2) Are the effects of inoculation and degree of colonization dependent on water availability? (3) Do plant responses to inoculation differ between two closely related species? Inoculation had no detectable effects on shoot height, or plant biomass but did affect biomass partitioning and root morphology in a species-specific manner. Shoot/root ratios were significantly lower in non-inoculated E. prostrata plants compared with inoculated plants (0.381 ± 0.066 vs. 0.683 ± 0.132). Root length and surface area were greater in non-inoculated E. prostrata (259.55 ± 33.78 cm vs. 194.64 ± 27.45 cm and 54.91 ± 7.628 cm(2) vs. 46.26 ± 6.8 cm(2), respectively). Inoculation had no detectable effect on B. frondosa root length, volume, or surface area. AMF associations formed at all levels of water availability. Hyphal, arbuscular, and vesicular colonization levels were greater in dry compared with intermediate and flooded treatments. Measures of mycorrhizal responsiveness were significantly depressed in E. prostrata compared with B. frondosa for total fresh weight (-0.3 ± 0.18 g vs. 0.06 ± 0.06 g), root length (-0.78 ± 0.28 cm vs.-0.11 ± 0.07 cm), root volume (-0.49 ± 0.22 cm(3) vs. 0.06 ± 0.07 cm(3)), and surface area (-0.59 ± 0.23 cm(2) vs.-0.03 ± 0.08 cm(2)). Given the disparity in species response to AMF inoculation, events that alter AMF prevalence in wetlands could significantly alter plant community structure by directly affecting seedling growth and development.

Nesting biology of Trypoxylon (Trypargilum) lactitarse Saussure (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) in trap-nests in Southern Brazil.

PubMed

Buschini, M L T; Niesing, F; Wolff, L L

2006-08-01

This study was carried in the Parque Municipal das Araucárias in the municipality of Guarapuava, state of Paraná, Southern Brazil. Three hundred and sixty five nests of T. lactitarse were obtained using trap-nests of 0.7, 1.0, and 1.3 cm in diameter. All of them had similar architecture, regardless of the diameter of the trap-nest. Completed nests consisted of a linear series of brood cells whose average number per nest was of 3.3, 4.0 and 3.6 for the nests with 0.7 cm, 1.0 cm and 1.3 cm in diameter, respectively. They were constructed more often during the summer. T. lactitarse had two types of life cycles: direct development (without diapause), and delayed development (with diapause during winter). Natural enemies included Chrysididae, Sarcophagidae, Dolichopodidae and Ichneumonidae. Out of 1,353 identified spider prey, 1,313 belonged to the Araneidae family.

TH-CD-202-11: Implications for Online Adaptive and Non-Adaptive Radiotherapy of Gastic and Gastroesophageal Junction Cancers Using MRI-Guided Radiotherapy

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

Mittauer, K; Geurts, M; Toya, R

Purpose: Radiotherapy for gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) tumors commonly requires large margins due to deformation, motion and variable changes of the stomach anatomy, at the risk of increased normal tissue toxicities. This work quantifies the interfraction variation of stomach deformation from daily MRI-guided radiotherapy to allow for a more targeted determination of margin expansion in the treatment of gastric and GEJ tumors. Methods: Five patients treated for gastric (n=3) and gastroesophageal junction (n=2) cancers with conventionally fractionated radiotherapy underwent daily MR imaging on a clinical MR-IGRT system. Treatment planning and contours were performed based on the MR simulation. Themore » stomach was re-contoured on each daily volumetric setup MR. Dice similarity coefficients (DSC) of the daily stomach were computed to evaluate the stomach interfraction deformation. To evaluate the stomach margin, the maximum Hausdorff distance (HD) between the initial and fractional stomach surface was measured for each fraction. The margin expansion, needed to encompass all fractions, was evaluated from the union of all fractional stomachs. Results: In total, 94 fractions with daily stomach contours were evaluated. For the interfraction stomach differences, the average DSC was 0.67±0.1 for gastric and 0.62±0.1 for GEJ cases. The maximum HD of each fraction was 3.5±2.0cm (n=94) with mean HD of 0.8±0.4cm (across all surface voxels for all fractions). The margin expansion required to encompass all individual fractions (averaged across 5 patients) was 1.4 cm(superior), 2.3 cm(inferior), 2.5 cm(right), 3.2 cm(left), 3.7 cm(anterior), 3.4 cm(posterior). Maximum observed difference for margin expansion was 8.7cm(posterior) among one patient. Conclusion: We observed a notable interfractional change in daily stomach shape (i.e., mean DSC of 0.67, p<0.0001) in both gastric and GEJ patients, for which adaptive radiotherapy is indicated. A minimum PTV margin of 3 cm is indicated to account for interfraction stomach changes when adaptive radiotherapy is not available. M. Bassetti: Travel funding from ViewRay, Inc.« less

Meltwater storage in low-density near-surface bare ice in the Greenland ice sheet ablation zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, Matthew G.; Smith, Laurence C.; Rennermalm, Asa K.; Miège, Clément; Pitcher, Lincoln H.; Ryan, Jonathan C.; Yang, Kang; Cooley, Sarah W.

2018-03-01

We document the density and hydrologic properties of bare, ablating ice in a mid-elevation (1215 m a.s.l.) supraglacial internally drained catchment in the Kangerlussuaq sector of the western Greenland ice sheet. We find low-density (0.43-0.91 g cm-3, μ = 0.69 g cm-3) ice to at least 1.1 m depth below the ice sheet surface. This near-surface, low-density ice consists of alternating layers of water-saturated, porous ice and clear solid ice lenses, overlain by a thin (< 0.5 m), even lower density (0.33-0.56 g cm-3, μ = 0.45 g cm-3) unsaturated weathering crust. Ice density data from 10 shallow (0.9-1.1 m) ice cores along an 800 m transect suggest an average 14-18 cm of specific meltwater storage within this low-density ice. Water saturation of this ice is confirmed through measurable water levels (1-29 cm above hole bottoms, μ = 10 cm) in 84 % of cryoconite holes and rapid refilling of 83 % of 1 m drilled holes sampled along the transect. These findings are consistent with descriptions of shallow, depth-limited aquifers on the weathered surface of glaciers worldwide and confirm the potential for substantial transient meltwater storage within porous low-density ice on the Greenland ice sheet ablation zone surface. A conservative estimate for the ˜ 63 km2 supraglacial catchment yields 0.009-0.012 km3 of liquid meltwater storage in near-surface, porous ice. Further work is required to determine if these findings are representative of broader areas of the Greenland ice sheet ablation zone, and to assess the implications for sub-seasonal mass balance processes, surface lowering observations from airborne and satellite altimetry, and supraglacial runoff processes.

Effects of Blood Flow and/or Ventilation Restriction on Radiofrequency Coagulation Size in the Lung: An Experimental Study in Swine

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

Anai, Hiroshi; Uchida, Barry T.; Pavcnik, Dusan, E-mail: pavcnikd@ohsu.edu

2006-10-15

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the restriction of blood flow and/or ventilation affects the radiofrequency (RF) ablation coagulation size in lung parenchyma. Thirty-one RF ablations were done in 16 normal lungs of 8 living swine with 2-cm LeVeen needles. Eight RF ablations were performed as a control (group G1), eight with balloon occlusion of the ipsilateral mainstem bronchus (G2), eight with occlusion of the ipsilateral pulmonary artery (G3), and seven with occlusion of both the ipsilateral bronchus and pulmonary artery (G4). Coagulation diameters and volumes of each ablation zone were compared on computed tomography (CT) andmore » gross specimen examinations. Twenty-six coagulation zones were suitable for evaluation: eight in G1, five in G2, seven in G3, and six in G4 groups. In G1, the mean coagulation diameter was 21.5 {+-} 3.5 mm on CT and 19.5 {+-} 1.78 mm on gross specimen examination. In G2, the mean diameters were 26.5 {+-} 5.1 mm and 23.0 {+-} 2.7 mm on CT and gross specimen examination, respectively. In G3, the mean diameters were 29.4 {+-} 2.2 mm and 27.4 {+-} 2.9 mm on CT and gross specimen examination, respectively, and in G4, they were 32.6 {+-} 3.33 mm and 28.8 {+-} 2.6 mm, respectively. The mean coagulation volumes were 3.39 {+-} l.52 cm{sup 3} on CT and 3.01 {+-} 0.94 cm{sup 3} on gross examinations in G1, 6.56 {+-} 2.47 cm{sup 3} and 5.22 {+-} 0.85 cm{sup 3} in G2, 10.93 {+-} 2.17 cm{sup 3} and 9.97 {+-} 2.91 cm{sup 3} in G3, and 13.81 {+-} 3.03 cm{sup 3} and 11.06 {+-} 3.27 cm{sup 3} in G4, respectively. The mean coagulation diameters on gross examination and mean coagulation volumes on CT and gross examination with G3 and G4 were significantly larger than those in G1 (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, respectively) or in G2 (p < 0.05, p < 0.005, p < 0.005, respectively). Pulmonary collapse occurred in one lung in G2 and pulmonary artery thrombus in two lungs of G3 and two lungs of G4. The coagulation size of RF ablation of the lung parenchyma is increased by ventilation and particularly by pulmonary artery blood flow restriction. The value of these restrictions for potential clinical use needs to be explored in experimentally induced lung tumors.« less

[sup 40]Ar/[sup 39]Ar ages of Challis volcanic rocks and the initiation of Tertiary sedimentary basins in southwestern Montana

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

M'Gonigle, J.W.; Dalrymple, G.B.

1993-10-01

[sup 40]Ar/[sup 39]Ar ages on single sanidine crystals from rhyolitic tuffs and ash flow tuffs within the uppermost and lowermost parts of the volcanic sequence of the Horse Prairie and Medicine Lodge topographic basins, southwestern Montana, show that these volcanic rocks were emplaced between about 48.8[+-]0.2 Ma and 45.9[+-]0.2 Ma, and are correlative with the Eocene Challis Volcanic Group of central Idaho. Sanidine ages on tuffs at the base of the Tertiary lacustrine, paludal, and fluvial sedimentary sequence, which unconformably overlies the volcanic sequence, suggest that sedimentation within an ancestral sedimentary basin that predated the development of the modern Horsemore » Prairie and Medicine Lodge basins began in the middle Eocene. 22 refs., 3 figs., 2 tabs.« less

The visible spectrum of zirconium dioxide, ZrO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le, Anh; Steimle, Timothy C.; Gupta, Varun; Rice, Corey A.; Maier, John P.; Lin, Sheng H.; Lin, Chih-Kai

2011-09-01

The electronic spectrum of a cold molecular beam of zirconium dioxide, ZrO2, has been investigated using laser induced fluorescence (LIF) in the region from 17 000 cm-1 to 18 800 cm-1 and by mass-resolved resonance enhanced multi-photon ionization (REMPI) spectroscopy from 17 000 cm-1-21 000 cm-1. The LIF and REMPI spectra are assigned to progressions in the tilde A{^1}B_2(ν1, ν2, ν3) ← tilde X{^1}A_1(0, 0, 0) transitions. Dispersed fluorescence from 13 bands was recorded and analyzed to produce harmonic vibrational parameters for the tilde X{^1}A_1 state of ω1 = 898(1) cm-1, ω2 = 287(2) cm-1, and ω3 = 808(3) cm-1. The observed transition frequencies of 45 bands in the LIF and REMPI spectra produce origin and harmonic vibrational parameters for the tilde A{^1}B_2 state of Te = 16 307(8) cm-1, ω1 = 819(3) cm-1, ω2 = 149(3) cm-1, and ω3 = 518(4) cm-1. The spectra were modeled using a normal coordinate analysis and Franck-Condon factor predictions. The structures, harmonic vibrational frequencies, and the potential energies as a function of bending angle for the tilde A{^1}B_2 and tilde X{^1}A_1 states are predicted using time-dependent density functional theory, complete active space self-consistent field, and related first-principle calculations. A comparison with isovalent TiO2 is made.

Accuracy and Feasibility of Estimated Tumour Volumetry in Primary Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours: Validation Using Semi-automated Technique in 127 Patients

PubMed Central

Tirumani, Sree Harsha; Shinagare, Atul B.; O’Neill, Ailbhe C.; Nishino, Mizuki; Rosenthal, Michael H.; Ramaiya, Nikhil H.

2015-01-01

Objective To validate estimated tumour volumetry in primary gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) using semi-automated volumetry. Materials and Methods In this IRB-approved retrospective study, we measured the three longest diameters in x, y, z axes on CTs of primary gastric GISTs in 127 consecutive patients (52 women, 75 men, mean age: 61 years) at our institute between 2000 and 2013. Segmented volumes (Vsegmented) were obtained using commercial software by two radiologists. Estimate volumes (V1–V6) were obtained using formulae for spheres and ellipsoids. Intra- and inter-observer agreement of Vsegmented and agreement of V1–6 with Vsegmented were analysed with concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) and Bland-Altman plots. Results Median Vsegmented and V1–V6 were 75.9 cm3, 124.9 cm3, 111.6 cm3, 94.0 cm3, 94.4cm3, 61.7 cm3 and 80.3 cm3 respectively. There was strong intra- and inter-observer agreement for Vsegmented. Agreement with Vsegmented was highest for V6 (scalene ellipsoid, x≠y≠z), with CCC of 0.96 [95%CI: 0.95–0.97]. Mean relative difference was smallest for V6 (0.6%), while it was −19.1% for V5, +14.5% for V4, +17.9% for V3, +32.6 % for V2 and +47% for V1. Conclusion Ellipsoidal approximations of volume using three measured axes may be used to closely estimate Vsegmented when semi-automated techniques are unavailable. PMID:25991487

Collisional relaxation of O2(X^3Σ _g^ -, υ = 1) and O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) by atmospherically relevant species

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pejaković, Dušan A.; Campbell, Zachary; Kalogerakis, Konstantinos S.; Copeland, Richard A.; Slanger, Tom G.

2011-09-01

Laboratory measurements are reported of the rate coefficient for collisional removal of O2(X^3Σ _g^ -, υ = 1) by O(3P), and the rate coefficients for removal of O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) by O2, CO2, and O(3P). A two-laser method is employed, in which the pulsed output of the first laser at 285 nm photolyzes ozone to produce oxygen atoms and O2(a1Δg, υ = 1), and the output of the second laser detects O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) via resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization. The kinetics of O2(X^3Σ _g^ -, υ = 1) + O(3P) relaxation is inferred from the temporal evolution of O2(a1Δg, υ = 1), an approach enabled by the rapid collision-induced equilibration of the O2(X^3Σ _g^ -, υ = 1) and O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) populations in the system. The measured O2(X^3Σ _g^ -, υ = 1) + O(3P) rate coefficient is (2.9 ± 0.6) × 10-12 cm3 s-1 at 295 K and (3.4 ± 0.6) × 10-12 cm3 s-1 at 240 K. These values are consistent with the previously reported result of (3.2 ± 1.0) × 10-12 cm3 s-1, which was obtained at 315 K using a different experimental approach [K. S. Kalogerakis, R. A. Copeland, and T. G. Slanger, J. Chem. Phys. 123, 194303 (2005)]. For removal of O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) by O(3P), the upper limits for the rate coefficient are 4 × 10-13 cm3 s-1 at 295 K and 6 × 10-13 cm3 s-1 at 240 K. The rate coefficient for removal of O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) by O2 is (5.6 ± 0.6) × 10-11 cm3 s-1 at 295 K and (5.9 ± 0.5) × 10-11 cm3 s-1 at 240 K. The O2(a1Δg, υ = 1) + CO2 rate coefficient is (1.5 ± 0.2) × 10-14 cm3 s-1 at 295 K and (1.2 ± 0.1) × 10-14 cm3 s-1 at 240 K. The implications of the measured rate coefficients for modeling of atmospheric emissions are discussed.

Detection of β-lactoglobulin in human breast-milk 7 days after cow milk ingestion.

PubMed

Matangkasombut, Ponpan; Padungpak, Savitree; Thaloengsok, Sasikanya; Kamchaisatian, Wasu; Sasisakulporn, Cherapat; Jotikasthira, Wanlapa; Benjaponpitak, Suwat; Manuyakorn, Wiparat

2017-08-01

β-lactoglobulin (BLG), a major allergen in cow milk (CM) can be detected in human breast-milk (BM) and is associated with exacerbation of symptoms in breastfed infants with cow milk protein allergy (CMPA). Currently, it is not known how long lactating mothers who consume dairy products need to withhold breastfeeding. To elucidate the kinetics of BLG in BM after maternal ingestion of a single dose of CM. Nineteen lactating mothers, four of whom had infants with CMPA, were instructed to avoid CM for 7 days before ingesting a single dose of CM and to continue to withhold CM thereafter throughout the study period. BLG was measured by ELISA in BM from 15 mothers of healthy infants before and at 3, 6 and 24 h, and 3 and 7 days after CM ingestion. Four pairs of mothers and CMPA infants were enrolled for BM challenge after the mothers had ingested CM. After CM ingestion, the level of BLG in BM increased significantly from 0.58 ng/ml (0.58 g/L) (IQR 0.38-0.88) to a peak level of 1.23 ng/ml (IQR 1.03-2.29), p < 0.001. The BLG level on day 3 (1.15 ng/ml, IQR 0.89-1.45) and day 7 (1.08 ng/ml (IQR 0.86-1.25) after CM ingestion was significantly higher than baseline (p = 0.01 and p = 0.001, respectively). BLG was detected in all BM samples from the four mothers of CMPA infants after CM ingestion, and the level was not different from that in the mothers of the 15 healthy infants. Three of the four CMPA infants developed symptoms such as maculopapular rash and hypersecretion in the airways after BM challenge. BLG can be detected in BM up to 7 days after CM ingestion. Lactating mothers should suspend breastfeeding to CMPA infants more than 7 days after CM ingestion.

High-resolution FTIR spectroscopy of the Coriolis interacting nu3 and nu9 fundamentals of methylene fluoride-d2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goh, K. L.; Tan, T. L.; Ong, P. P.; Chaw, K. H.; Teo, H. H.

The Fourier transform infrared spectrum of the υ3 and υ9 bands of methylene fluoride-d2 (CD2F2) has been recorded with an unapodized resolution of 0.0024cm-1 in the frequency range 970-1080cm-1. These two bands with band centres approximately 26 cm-1 apart were mutually coupled by Coriolis interactions. By fitting a total of 1639 infrared transitions of both υ3 and υ9 with a standard deviation of 0.00084cm-1 S/S using a Watson's A-reduced Hamiltonian in the Ir representation with the inclusion of a first order c-type Coriolis resonance term, two sets of rovibrational constants for υ3 = 1 and υ9 = 1 states were derived. The υ3 band is B-type while the υ9 band is A-type with band centres at 1030.1573 ± 0.0003 and 1003.7435 ± 0.0001cm-1, respectively.

[Influencing factors of soil organic carbon in deeper soil layers at a small watershed on tableland region of the Loess Plateau, China].

PubMed

Che, Sheng-guo; Guo, Sheng-li

2010-05-01

Analyzing and estimating soil organic carbon (SOC) storage and changes in deep layers under different land uses and landforms may play a pivotal role in comprehending the balance and cycle mechanisms of C cycling, and comprehending the capacity of C sequestration in the terrestrial ecosystem. The study mainly emphasized on effects of landforms and land uses on vertical distribution characteristic of SOC sampled to a depth of 200 cm at the Wangdonggou watershed on the tableland region of Loess Plateau, China. For the top soil of 0-20 cm, the order of SOC contents was gully (10.0 g x kg(-1)) > tableland (7.8 g x kg(-1)) and slopeland (8.2 g x kg(-1)). For the subsoil, SOC in tableland was higher than that in gully and slopeland. For slopeland and gully, SOC decreased with increasing depth, while for tableland, SOC decreased initially, then increased, lastly decreased. Meanwhile, for tableland, the order of SOC appeared approximately manmade grassland > cropland > orchard with the effecting depth of land uses for 40 cm, and for slopeland the order was native grassland (4.3 g x kg(-1)) > manmade woodland (3.8 g x kg(-1)) > manmade grassland (3.3 g x kg(-1)) > orchard (3.3 g x kg(-1)) with the depth for 100 cm, while for gully, there was no significantly difference (p > 0.05) among different land uses. SOC storage in the profile of 20-200 cm accounted for 67.6% sampled to a depth of 100 cm, while for 100-200cm, SOC storage accounted 37.3% in 0-200 cm equaled to 63.8% of the SOC storage in 0-100 cm. The results revealed that landforms and land uses highly significantly (p < 0.05) affected the vertical distribution of SOC at a small watershed scale and considerable amounts of C were stored at deeper depths.

SU-F-T-574: MLC Based SRS Beam Commissioning - Minimum Target Size Investigation

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

Zakikhani, R; Able, C

2016-06-15

Purpose: To implement a MLC accelerator based SRS program using small fields down to 1 cm × 1 cm and to determine the smallest target size safe for clinical treatment. Methods: Computerized beam scanning was performed in water using a diode detector and a linac-head attached transmission ion chamber to characterize the small field dosimetric aspects of a 6 MV photon beam (Trilogy-Varian Medical Systems, Inc.). The output factors, PDD and profiles of field sizes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 10 cm{sup 2} were measured and utilized to create a new treatment planning system (TPS) model (AAA ver 11021). Staticmore » MLC SRS treatment plans were created and delivered to a homogeneous phantom (Cube 20, CIRS, Inc.) for a 1.0 cm and 1.5 cm “PTV” target. A 12 field DMLC plan was created for a 2.1 cm target. Radiochromic film (EBT3, Ashland Inc.) was used to measure the planar dose in the axial, coronal and sagittal planes. A micro ion chamber (0.007 cc) was used to measure the dose at isocenter for each treatment delivery. Results: The new TPS model was validated by using a tolerance criteria of 2% dose and 2 mm distance to agreement. For fields ≤ 3 cm{sup 2}, the max PDD, Profile and OF difference was 0.9%, 2%/2mm and 1.4% respectively. The measured radiochromic film planar dose distributions had gamma scores of 95.3% or higher using a 3%/2mm criteria. Ion chamber measurements for all 3 test plans effectively met our goal of delivering the dose accurately to within 5% when compared to the expected dose reported by the TPS (1 cm plan Δ= −5.2%, 1.5 cm plan Δ= −2.0%, 2 cm plan Δ= 1.5%). Conclusion: End to end testing confirmed that MLC defined SRS for target sizes ≥ 1.0 cm can be safely planned and delivered.« less

Geophysical investigations of the area between the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Barents Sea: From water to the lithosphere-asthenosphere system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grad, Marek; Mjelde, Rolf; Krysiński, Lech; Czuba, Wojciech; Libak, Audun; Guterch, Aleksander

2015-03-01

As a part of the large international panel "IPY Plate Tectonics and Polar Gateways" within the "4th International Polar Year" framework, extensive geophysical studies were performed in the area of southern Svalbard, between the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Barents Sea. Seismic investigations were performed along three refraction and wide-angle reflection seismic lines. Integrated with gravity data the seismic data were used to determine the structure of the oceanic crust, the transition between continent and ocean (COT), and the continental structures down to the lithosphere-asthenosphere system (LAB). We demonstrate how modeling of multiple water waves can be used to determine the sound velocity in oceanic water along a seismic refraction profile. Our 2D seismic and density models documents 4-9 km thick oceanic crust formed at the Knipovich Ridge, a distinct and narrow continent-ocean transition (COT), the Caledonian suture zone between Laurentia and Barentsia, and 30-35 km thick continental crust beneath the Barents Sea. The COT west of southern Spitsbergen expresses significant excess density (more than 0.1 g/cm3 in average), which is characteristic for mafic/ultramafic and high-grade metamorphic rocks. The results of the gravity modeling show relatively weak correlation of the density with seismic velocity in the upper mantle, which suggests that the horizontal differences between oceanic and continental mantle are dominated by mineralogical changes, although a thermal effect is also present. The seismic velocity change with depth suggests lherzolite composition of the uppermost oceanic mantle, and dunite composition beneath the continental crust.

Electro-Spark Deposited Coatings for Replacement of Chrome Electroplating

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-06-01

2.6 0.4 2.2 Thickness uniformity (A-F) 2.8/0.8 2.8/0.8 6.3/0 6.5/0.4 2 to 0 3.9/0.4 Coating integrity (A-F) A A- F C - D A- Defects/mm F D + F D + F B...or width of the wear scar (cm), h is the height or depth of the wear scar (cm), and c is the circumference of the wear scar (cm) where c = "rrd, and d ...inerS4C *2 Panelb MHC583010 -,,IN 3 4853 0.42 roiness 1)N32-15m x c -e sca. 3) &wN x Deb 1nQ withn sar Dein HxW 1).057n*~ 3)211200 12 ve 2 Panl 2 EJC .5 D

50 CFR 622.37 - Size limits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

....38 (b)(3) and 13 inches (33.0 cm), TL, for a fish taken by a person not subject to the bag limit. (2) Lane snapper—8 inches (20.3 cm), TL. (3) Vermilion snapper—10 inches (25.4 cm), TL. (4) Cubera, gray... in § 622.38(b)(2)—20 inches (50.8 cm), TL. (3) Scamp—16 inches (40.6 cm), TL. (4) Yellowfin grouper...

50 CFR 622.37 - Size limits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

....38 (b)(3) and 13 inches (33.0 cm), TL, for a fish taken by a person not subject to the bag limit. (2) Lane snapper—8 inches (20.3 cm), TL. (3) Vermilion snapper—10 inches (25.4 cm), TL. (4) Cubera, gray... in § 622.38(b)(2)—20 inches (50.8 cm), TL. (3) Scamp—16 inches (40.6 cm), TL. (4) Yellowfin grouper...

Impact of the «Conversation Map™» tools on understanding of diabetes by Spanish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, comparative study.

PubMed

Penalba, Maite; Moreno, Luis; Cobo, Amelia; Reviriego, Jesús; Rodríguez, Angel; Cleall, Simon; Reaney, Matthew

2014-12-01

This paper presents results from the Spanish subpopulation of a study comparing Conversation Maps™ (CM)-based education with regular care (RC) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Adult patients with T2DM who were considered as not demonstrating ideal disease management were randomly assigned to CM or RC with assessments following (Visit 2), and at follow-up 6 months after (Visit 3), the final CM session. The primary endpoint was diabetes knowledge at Visit 3. 310 patients were randomised to receive CM education (n=148) or RC (n=162). Median knowledge scores were ranked significantly higher in the CM group than the RC group at Visit 2 and Visit 3 (p<0.001). No significant differences in clinical and other outcomes were identified between the interventions, except satisfaction with care (p<0.001, Visit 2; p=0.055, Visit 3) and perception of goal attainment (p<0.001 and p = 0.046, respectively) that were both higher in the CM group. In these patients from Spain, CM was superior to RC in terms of diabetes knowledge 6 months after education was completed, suggesting that CM should be considered for use in patients requiring diabetes education. Copyright © 2014 SEEN. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

[Comparison of the Pressure on the Larynx and Tongue Using McGRATH® MAC Video Laryngoscope--Direct Vision versus Indirect Vision].

PubMed

Tanaka, Yasutomo; Miyazaki, Yukiko; Kitakata, Hidenori; Shibuya, Hiromi; Okada, Toshiki

2015-12-01

Studies show that McGRATH® MAC (McG) is useful during direct laryngoscopy. However, no study has examined whether McG re- duces pressure on the upper airway tract We compared direct vision with indirect vision concerning pressure on the larynx and tongue. Twenty two anesthesiologists and 16 junior residents attempted direct laryngoscopy of airway management simulator using McG with direct vision and indirect vision. Pressure was measured using pressure measurement film. In anesthesiologists group, pressure on larynx was 14.8 ± 2.7 kgf · cm(-2) with direct vision and 12.7 ± 2.7 kgf · cm(-2) with indirect vision (P < 0.05). Pressure on the tongue was 8.8 ± 3.2 kgf cm(-2) with direct vision and 7.6 ± 2.8 kgf · cm(-2) with indirect vision (P = 0.18). In junior residents group, pressure on larynx was 19.0 ± 1.3 kgf · cm(-2) with direct vision and 14.1 ± 3.1 kgf · cm(-2) with indirect vision (P < 0.05). Pressure on the tongue was 15.4 ± 3.6 kgf · cm(-2) with direct vision and 11.2 ± 4.7 kgf · cm(-2) with indirect vision (P < 0.05). McG with indirect vision can reduce pressure on the upper airway tract.

Seasonal critical concentration and relationships of uppermost fully expanded leaf phosphorus and potassium status with biomass and yield traits at maturity in soybean

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Analysis of uppermost fully expanded leaves is useful to detect deficiency of mineral nutrients such as phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in soybean. Although, the leaf P or K status aids in fertilizer management, information on their seasonal association with the growth and yield traits at maturity ...

Spectral measurements of the cosmic microwave background

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

Kogut, A.J.

1989-04-01

Three experiments have measured the intensity of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) at wavelengths 4.0, 3.0, and 0.21 cm. The measurement at 4.0 cm used a direct-gain total-power radiometer to measure the difference in power between the zenith sky and a large cryogenic reference target. Foreground signals are measured with the same instrument and subtracted from the zenith signal, leaving the CMB as the residual. The reference target consists of a large open-mouth cryostat with a microwave absorber submerged in liquid helium; thin windows block the radiative heat load and prevent condensation atmospheric gases within the cryostat. The thermodynamic temperaturemore » of the CMB at 4.0 cm is 2.59 +- 0.07 K. The measurement at 3.0 cm used a superheterodyne Dicke-switched radiometer with a similar reference target to measure the zenith sky temperature. A rotating mirror allowed one of the antenna beams to be redirected to a series of zenith angles, permitting automated atmospheric measurements without moving the radiometer. A weighted average of 5 years of data provided the thermodynamic temperature of the CMB at 3.0 cm of 2.62 +- 0.06 K. The measurement at 0.21 cm used Very Large Array observations of interstellar ortho-formaldehyde to determine the CMB intensity in molecular clouds toward the giant HII region W51A (G49.5-0.4). Solutions of the radiative transfer problem in the context of a large velocity gradient model provided estimates of the CMB temperature within the foreground clouds. Collisional excitation from neutral hydrogen molecules within the clouds limited the precision of the result. The thermodynamic temperature of the CMB at 0.21 cm is 3.2 +- 0.9 K. 72 refs., 27 figs., 38 tabs.« less

Copernicus observations of interstellar absorption at Lyman alpha

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

Bohlin, R C

1975-09-01

Column densities N/sub H/ of atomic hydrogen have been derived for 40 OB stars from spectral scans at L$alpha$ obtained by the Copernicus (OAO-3) satellite. The stars are all between 60 and 1100 pc away with a range of mean densities n/sub H/ of 0.01 to 2.5 atoms cm $sup -3$. For 27 stars without significant amounts of molecular hydrogen, the mean ratio of gas to color excess is =3.6times10$sup 21$ atoms cm$sup -2$ mag$sup -1$, and the mean density is =0.12 atoms cm$sup -3$. For 10 stars where the molecular hydrogen is at least 5 percent of the totalmore » hydrogen, is 5.4times10$sup 21$ atoms cm $sup -2$ mag$sup -1$ and is 0.7 atoms cm$sup -3$. In this limited set of data, the ratio of gas to color excess in clouds varies from 1 to 3 times the mean outside of clouds. The presence of molecular hydrogen correlates with E (B-V), but the best tracer for H$sub 2$ is atomic hydrogen. The mean density of the gas for all 40 stars is much smaller than the mean of 0.7 atoms cm$sup -3$ obtained from 21-cm observations, because the brightest stars with less than average amounts of matter in the line of sight were selected for observation. (AIP)« less

Hierarchical TiN nanoparticles-assembled nanopillars for flexible supercapacitors with high volumetric capacitance.

PubMed

Qin, Ping; Li, Xingxing; Gao, Biao; Fu, Jijiang; Xia, Lu; Zhang, Xuming; Huo, Kaifu; Shen, Wenli; Chu, Paul K

2018-05-10

Titanium nitride (TiN) is an attractive electrode material in fast charging/discharging supercapacitors because of its excellent conductivity. However, the low capacitance and mechanical brittleness of TiN restricts its further application in flexible supercapacitors with high energy density. Thus, it is still a challenge to rationally design TiN electrodes with both high electrochemical and mechanical properties. Herein, the hierarchical TiN nanoparticles-assembled nanopillars (H-TiN NPs) array as binder free electrodes were obtained by nitriding of hierarchical titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanopillars, which was produced by a simple hydrothermal treatment of anodic TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) array in water. The porous TiN nanoparticles connected to each other to form ordered nanopillar arrays, effectively providing larger specific surface area and more active sites for charge storage. The H-TiN NPs delivered a high volumetric capacitance of 120 F cm-3 at 0.83 A cm-3, which is better than that of TiN NTs arrays (69 F cm-3 at 0.83 A cm-3). After assembling into all-solid-state devices, the H-TiN NPs based supercapacitors exhibited outstanding volumetric capacitance of 5.9 F cm-3 at 0.02 A cm-3 and a high energy density of 0.53 mW h cm-3. Our results reveal a new strategy to optimize the supercapacitive performance of metal nitrides.

B-mode ultrasonography biometry of the Amazon Parrot (Amazona aestiva) eye.

PubMed

Lehmkuhl, Ricardo C; Almeida, Mariana F; Mamprim, Maria J; Vulcano, Luiz C

2010-09-01

Ultrasonographic evaluation of the eye is a relatively recent addition to routine ophthalmic diagnostics in small animal ophthalmology. Some parameters for ophthalmic biometry have been established. There are few studies in clinical avian ophthalmology that describe ultrasound images of eye in some nocturnal avian species and in other birds that do not belong to the Brazilian fauna, but the psittacine family is not represented. The purpose of this study was to describe the following measurements: the distances between cornea and anterior lens capsule (D1) between the anterior and posterior lens capsule (D2), between posterior lens capsule and optic papilla (D3) and the axial length. Sixty four transpalpebral ocular ultrasound examinations were performed on 32 Blue fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) with no history of previous ophthalmic disease. The measurements were taken in sagital planes using a 10 MHz linear probe without a standoff pad. The mean values for the left eye were; D1 0.17 ± 0.03 cm, D2 0.35 ± 0.02 cm, D3 0.73 ± 0.04 cm and the axial length 1.26 ± 0.06 cm. In the right eye D1 0.17 ± 0.02 cm, D2 0.34 ± 0.02 cm, D3 0.74 ± 0.03 cm and the axial length 1.25 ± 0.05 cm. No significant statistical difference was observed among the birds or between the left and right eye. The description of these parameters will allow the veterinary practitioner to evaluate the structural changes that specific diseases may cause in these animals.

Evaluation of an integrated orbital tissue expander in congenital anophthalmos: report of preliminary clinical experience.

PubMed

Tse, David T; Abdulhafez, Mohammad; Orozco, Marcia A; Tse, Jeffrey D; Azab, Amr Osama; Pinchuk, Leonard

2011-03-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of an orbital tissue expander designed to stimulate orbital bone growth in an anophthalmic socket. Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Institutional. Nine consecutive patients with unilateral congenital anophthalmos. The orbital tissue expander is made of an inflatable silicone globe sliding on a titanium T-plate secured to the lateral orbital rim with screws. The globe is inflated by a transconjunctival injection of normal saline through a 30-gauge needle to a final volume of approximately 5 cm(3). Computed tomography scans were used to determine the orbital volume. The data studied were: demographics, prior orbital expansion procedures, secondary interventions, orbital symmetry, and implant-related complications. The primary outcome measure was the orbital volume change, and the secondary outcome measures were changes in forehead, brow, and zygomatic eminence contour and adverse events. The average patient age at implantation was 41.89 ± 39.42 months (range, 9 to 108 months). The initial average volume of inflation was 3.00 ± 0.87 cm(3) (range, 2.0 to 4.0 cm(3)), and the average final volume of 4.33 ± 0.50 cm(3) (range, 4.0 to 5.0 cm(3)) was achieved. The duration of expansion was 18.89 ± 8.80 months (range, 4 to 26 months). All patients demonstrated an average increase in the orbital tissue expander implanted orbital volume of 5.112 ± 2.173 cm(3) (range, 2.81 to 10.38 cm(3)). The average difference between the volume of the implanted and the initial contralateral orbit was 5.68 ± 2.34 cm(3), which decreased to 2.53 ± 1.80 cm(3) at the final measurement (P < .001, paired t test). All implants remained inflated except for 2 iatrogenic punctures at the second inflation and 1 that was the result of implant failure. All were replaced. The integrated orbital tissue expander is safe and effective in stimulating anophthalmic socket bone growth. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Room temperature multiferroic properties of (Bi{sub 0.95}La{sub 0.05})(Fe{sub 0.97}Mn{sub 0.03})O{sub 3}/NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} double layered thin film

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

Raghavan, C.M.; Kim, H.J.; Kim, J.W.

2013-11-15

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Chemical solution deposition of (Bi{sub 0.95}La{sub 0.05})(Fe{sub 0.97}Mn{sub 0.03})O{sub 3}–NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} double layered thin film. • Studies on structural, electrical and multiferroic properties. • NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} acts as both resistive buffer layer and magnetic source. - Abstract: (Bi{sub 0.95}La{sub 0.05})(Fe{sub 0.97}Mn{sub 0.03})O{sub 3}/NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} double layered thin film was prepared on a Pt(111)/Ti/SiO{sub 2}/Si(100) substrate by a chemical solution deposition method. X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering spectroscopy studies confirmed the formation of the distorted rhombohedral perovskite and the inverse spinel cubic structures for the (Bi{sub 0.95}La{sub 0.05})(Fe{sub 0.97}Mn{sub 0.03})O{sub 3}/NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}more » double layered thin film. The (Bi{sub 0.95}La{sub 0.05})(Fe{sub 0.97}Mn{sub 0.03})O{sub 3}/NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} double layered thin film exhibited well saturated ferromagnetic (2 M{sub r} of 18.1 emu/cm{sup 3} and 2H{sub c} of 0.32 kOe at 20 kOe) and ferroelectric (2P{sub r} of 60 μC/cm{sup 2} and 2E{sub c} of 813 kV/cm at 866 kV/cm) hysteresis loops with low order of leakage current density (4.5 × 10{sup −6} A/cm{sup 2} at an applied electric field of 100 kV/cm), which suggest the ferroelectric and ferromagnetic multi-layers applications in real devices.« less

Large Energy Density, Excellent Thermal Stability, and High Cycling Endurance of Lead-Free BaZr0.2Ti0.8O3 Film Capacitors.

PubMed

Sun, Zixiong; Ma, Chunrui; Wang, Xi; Liu, Ming; Lu, Lu; Wu, Ming; Lou, Xiaojie; Wang, Hong; Jia, Chun-Lin

2017-05-24

A large energy storage density (ESD) of 30.4 J/cm 3 and high energy efficiency of 81.7% under an electrical field of 3 MV/cm was achieved at room temperature by the fabrication of environmentally friendly lead-free BaZr 0.2 Ti 0.8 O 3 epitaxial thin films on Nb-doped SrTiO 3 (001) substrates by using a radio-frequency magnetron sputtering system. Moreover, the BZT film capacitors exhibit great thermal stability of the ESD from 16.8 J/cm 3 to 14.0 J/cm 3 with efficiency of beyond 67.4% and high fatigue endurance (up to 10 6 cycles) in a wide temperature range from room temperature to 125 °C. Compared to other BaTiO 3 -based energy storage capacitor materials and even Pb-based systems, BaZr 0.2 Ti 0.8 O 3 thin film capacitors show either high ESD or great energy efficiency. All of these excellent results revealed that the BaZr 0.2 Ti 0.8 O 3 film capacitors have huge potential in the application of modern electronics, such as locomotive and pulse power, in harsh working environments.

SU-G-IeP3-07: High-Resolution, High-Sensitivity Imaging and Quantification of Intratumoral Distributions of Gold Nanoparticles Using a Benchtop L-Shell XRF Imaging System

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

Manohar, N; Diagaradjane, P; Krishnan, S

2016-06-15

Purpose: To demonstrate the ability to perform high-resolution imaging and quantification of sparse distributions of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) within ex vivo tumor samples using a highly-sensitive benchtop L-shell x-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging system. Methods: An optimized L-shell XRF imaging system was assembled using a tungsten-target x-ray source (operated at 62 kVp and 45 mA). The x-rays were filtered (copper: 0.08 mm & aluminum: 0.04 mm) and collimated (lead: 5 cm thickness, 3 cm aperture diameter) into a cone-beam in order to irradiate small samples or objects. A collimated (stainless steel: 4 cm thickness, 2 mm aperture diameter) silicon drift detector,more » capable of 2D translation, was placed at 90° with respect to the beam to acquire XRF/scatter spectra from regions of interest. Spectral processing involved extracting XRF signal from background, followed by attenuation correction using a Compton scatter-based normalization algorithm. Calibration phantoms with water/GNPs (0 and 0.00001–10 mg/cm{sup 3}) were used to determine the detection limit of the system at a 10-second acquisition time. The system was then used to map the distribution of GNPs within a 12×11×2 mm{sup 3} slice excised from the center of a GNP-loaded ex vivo murine tumor sample; a total of 110 voxels (2.65×10{sup −3} cm{sup 3}) were imaged with 1.3-mm spatial resolution. Results: The detection limit of the current cone-beam benchtop L-shell XRF system was 0.003 mg/cm{sup 3} (3 ppm). Intratumoral GNP concentrations ranging from 0.003 mg/cm{sup 3} (3 ppm) to a maximum of 0.055 mg/cm{sup 3} (55 ppm) and average of 0.0093 mg/cm{sup 3} (9.3 ppm) were imaged successfully within the ex vivo tumor slice. Conclusion: The developed cone-beam benchtop L-shell XRF imaging system can immediately be used for imaging of ex vivo tumor samples containing low concentrations of GNPs. With minor finetuning/optimization, the system can be directly adapted for performing routine preclinical in vivo imaging tasks. Supported by NIH/NCI grant R01CA155446 This investigation was supported by NIH/NCI grant R01CA155446.« less

Determination of the appropriate catheter length for needle thoracostomy by using computed tomography scans of trauma patients in Japan.

PubMed

Yamagiwa, Takeshi; Morita, Seiji; Yamamoto, Rie; Seki, Tomoko; Sugimoto, Katsuhiko; Inokuchi, Sadaki

2012-01-01

Previous studies reported a high failure rate in relieving tension pneumothorax by needle thoracostomy, because the catheter was not sufficiently long to access the pleural space. The Advanced Trauma Life Support guideline recommends needle thoracostomy at the second intercostal space in the middle clavicular line using a 5.0-cm catheter, whereas the corresponding guideline in Japan does not mention a catheter length. It is necessary to measure the chest wall thickness (CWT) and determine the appropriate catheter length taking the differences of habitus in race and region into consideration. This study was designed to analyse CWT in Japanese trauma patients by computed tomography and to determine the percentage of patients whose pleural space would be accessible using a 5.0-cm catheter. We performed a retrospective review of chest computed tomography of 256 adult Japanese trauma patients who were admitted to the level 1 trauma centre of Tokai University Hospital in Kanagawa, Japan between January and July 2008. In 256 patients, the CWT at 512 sites (left and right sides) was measured by chest computed tomography at the second intercostal space in the middle clavicular line. The frequency of measurement sites <5.0 cm was calculated simultaneously. The samples were divided according to gender, side (left and right), abbreviated injury scale (<3, ≧3), arm position during examination (up/down), and the existence or non-existence of associated injuries (pneumothorax, subcutaneous emphysema, and fracture of the sternum and ribs); the CWT of each group was compared. The mean CWT measured in 192 males and 64 females was 3.06±1.02 cm. The CWT values at 483 sites (94.3%) were less than 5.0 cm. The CWT of females was significantly greater than that of males (3.66 cm vs. 2.85 cm, p<0.0001), and patients with subcutaneous emphysema had greater CWTs than those without it (4.16 cm vs. 3.01 cm, p<0.0001). The mean CWT at the second intercostal space in the middle clavicular line was 3.06 cm. It is likely that over 94% of Japanese trauma patients could be treated with a 5.0-cm catheter. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

N2 pressure - broadened O3 line widths and strengths near 1129.4 cm-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Copeland, G. E.; Majorana, L. N.; Harward, C. N.; Steinkamp, R. J.

1982-01-01

A Beer's Law experiment was performed with a tunable diode laser to find the N2 pressure broadening characteristics of a single 03 absorption line at 1129.426 cm for N2 pressures from 10 to 100 torr (O3 pressure = 3.16 torr). SO2 line positions were used for wavelength calibration. Line shapes were interatively fitted to a Lorentz function. Results were delta (HWHM in MHz) = 47.44 (+ or - 5.34) MHz + 1.730 (+ or - 0.088) MHz/torr *p(torr) with sigma = 0.9897. This intercept compares well with the Doppler O3 - O3 broadened (at 3.16 torr) width of 44.52 Hz. This result in a HWHM line width of 0.44 cm atm at 760 torr and 285 K. The line strengths integrated over delta nu = 0.55 cm were found to be N2 pressure dependent.

KSC-2014-3662

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3660

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower will undergo tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3661

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower will undergo tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

The Uppermost Surface of the Moon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noble, Sarah K.

2009-01-01

The Ap16 Clam shell Sampling Devices (CSSDs) were designed to sample the uppermost surface of lunar soil. The two devices used beta cloth (69003) and velvet (69004) to collect soil from the top 100 and 500 micrometers of the soil, respectively. Due to the difficulty of the sampling method, little material was collected and as a result little research has been done on these samples. Initial studies attempted to look at the material which had fallen off of the fabrics and was subsequently collected from inside the sample containers. However, this material was highly fractionated and did not provide an adequate picture of the uppermost surface. Recently, samples were obtained directly from the beta cloth using carbon tape. While still fractionated, these samples provide a unique glimpse into the undisturbed soil exposed at the lunar surface.

Trend Extraction of Understanding Degree of Classes through Analyses of Questionnaires on Teaching Skills and the Uppermost Important Points

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koike, Katsuaki; Mori, Kazuya; Yamao, Toshitaka; Fujimi, Toshio

As an activity of one working group for the Good Practice at Kumamoto Univ., we proposed a questionnaire survey on understanding degree of the uppermost important points of each class in addition to the usual class-evaluation questionnaire. Each class lists three uppermost important points which are essential to understand the class contents. The understanding degree is classified into four levels ; full, most, insufficient, and not at all understandings. By analyzing the replies to 124 classes in the 2008 school year with a regression model, the understanding degrees of the bachelor students of the faculty of engineering were clarified to be affected meaningfully by degree of difficulty, effectiveness of audiovisual aids, self-study time, and attendance to class.

Department of the Army Procurement Programs. Committee Staff Procurement Backup Book FY 2001 Budget Estimate. Procurement of Ammunition, Army.

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-02-01

tD c...UJ _i UJ 2 o o UJ 1- 2 O o 2 o w «N o 0. § >- u. Ü u z til < V 3 _i < 2 u. a. -b o 3 CN i 0. o a. CO ci a. T- T- 1^ tD ...Tf <=f >- CM CN CN u_ © CD •a a> J3 o o CD CO to Z c CM Ö Ö Ö £ E >• "*" T~ JB tD u_ ~ UJ a. E E ɘ o a. o c i o o CM CM CM W a CM

Long wavelength magnetic anomalies over continental rifts in cratonic region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedman, S. A.; Persaud, P.; Ferre, E. C.; Martín-Hernández, F.; Feinberg, J. M.

2017-12-01

New collections of unaltered mantle xenoliths shed light on potential upper mantle contributions to long wavelength magnetic anomalies (LWMA) in continental rifts in cratonic / shield areas. The new material originates from the East African Rift (Tanzania), the Rio Grande Rift (U.S.A.), the Rhine Rift (Germany), and the West Antarctic Rift (Antarctica). The xenoliths sample the uppermost (<80 km depth) lithospheric mantle in these regions in the spinel-peridotite and plagioclase-peridotite stability fields. The most common lithology by far (95% of samples) is a spinel-lherzolite indicating relatively low oxygen fugacities (FMQ -1). Chrome spinel in these peridotites is non-magnetic (Al + Mg > 0.2 or Fe < 0.3) and primary magnetite (Fe3O4) occurs only in trace amounts, typically yielding low natural remanent magnetizations (NRM < 10-2 A/m). The low Koenigsberger ratios (Qn < 1) of these materials, combined with high geotherms (>60ºC/km) that are characteristic of rifted regions preclude any contribution to LWMA at depths >10 km. Hence, only upper basalts and hypovolcanic mafic sills would constitute potential magnetic sources. In contrast, the margins of these rifted regions consist of refractory cratonic domains, often characterized by oxidized sublithospheric mantle that host significant concentrations of primary magnetite. The higher NRMs of these peridotites (up to 15 A/m, Qn > 2.5) combined with much lower geotherms (as low as 15ºC/km) allows for a 5 to 10 km layer of uppermost mantle to potentially contribute to LWMA. Assuming that Qn values in rift margins are also <1, the new data presented here suggests that relatively young rifts would display a central negative magnetic anomaly surrounded by two broad positive anomalies. The latitude of the rift is predicted to exert a primary control on the magnitude of such anomalies, while the steepness of the magnetic gradient across the rift would primarily reflect thermal equilibration over time.

Seismic structure of the crust and uppermost mantle of South America and surrounding oceanic basins

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chulick, Gary S.; Detweiler, Shane; Mooney, Walter D.

2013-01-01

We present a new set of contour maps of the seismic structure of South America and the surrounding ocean basins. These maps include new data, helping to constrain crustal thickness, whole-crustal average P-wave and S-wave velocity, and the seismic velocity of the uppermost mantle (Pn and Sn). We find that: (1) The weighted average thickness of the crust under South America is 38.17 km (standard deviation, s.d. ±8.7 km), which is ∼1 km thinner than the global average of 39.2 km (s.d. ±8.5 km) for continental crust. (2) Histograms of whole-crustal P-wave velocities for the South American crust are bi-modal, with the lower peak occurring for crust that appears to be missing a high-velocity (6.9–7.3 km/s) lower crustal layer. (3) The average P-wave velocity of the crystalline crust (Pcc) is 6.47 km/s (s.d. ±0.25 km/s). This is essentially identical to the global average of 6.45 km/s. (4) The average Pn velocity beneath South America is 8.00 km/s (s.d. ±0.23 km/s), slightly lower than the global average of 8.07 km/s. (5) A region across northern Chile and northeast Argentina has anomalously low P- and S-wave velocities in the crust. Geographically, this corresponds to the shallowly-subducted portion of the Nazca plate (the Pampean flat slab first described by Isacks et al., 1968), which is also a region of crustal extension. (6) The thick crust of the Brazilian craton appears to extend into Venezuela and Colombia. (7) The crust in the Amazon basin and along the western edge of the Brazilian craton may be thinned by extension. (8) The average crustal P-wave velocity under the eastern Pacific seafloor is higher than under the western Atlantic seafloor, most likely due to the thicker sediment layer on the older Atlantic seafloor.

Renovation of epithermal neutron beam for BNCT at THOR.

PubMed

Liu, Y-W H; Huang, T T; Jiang, S H; Liu, H M

2004-11-01

Heading for possible use for clinical trial, THOR (Tsing Hua Open-pool Reactor) at Taiwan was shutdown for renovation of a new epithermal neutron beam in January 2003. In November 2003, concrete cutting was finished for closer distance from core and larger treatment room. This article presents the design base that the construction of the new beam is based on. The filter/moderator design along the beam is Cd(0.1cm)+Al(10 cm)+FLUENTAL (16 cm)+Al(10 cm)+FLUENTAL(24 cm)+Void(18 cm)+Cd(0.1cm)+Bi(10 cm) with 6 cm Pb as reflector. Following the filter/moderator is an 88 cm long, 6 cm thick Bi-lined collimator with Li(2)CO(3)-PE at the end. The collimator is surrounded by Li(2)CO(3)-PE and Pb. The calculated beam parameters under 2 MW at the beam exit is phi(epi) = 3.4 x 10(9) n/cm(2)/s, Df/phi(epi) = 2.8 x 10(-11) cGy cm(2)/n, Dgamma/phi(epi) = 1.3 x 10(-11) cGy cm(2)/n, and J+/phi = 0.8. For a phantom placed 10 cm from beam exit, MCNP calculation shows that the advantage depth is 8.9 cm, and advantage ratio is 5.6 if boron concentration in tumor and normal tissue are assumed to be 65 and 18 ppm. The maximum dose rate for normal tissue is 50 cGy/min. The maximum therapeutic ratio is 6. The construction of the beam is scheduled to be finished by the end of April 2004.

Genetic Studies of Stuttering in a Founder Population

PubMed Central

Wittke-Thompson, Jacqueline K.; Ambrose, Nicoline; Yairi, Ehud; Roe, Cheryl; Cook, Edwin H.; Ober, Carole; Cox, Nancy J.

2007-01-01

Genome-wide linkage and association analyses were conducted to identify genetic determinants of stuttering in a founder population in which 48 individuals affected with stuttering are connected in a single 232-person genealogy. A novel approach was devised to account for all necessary relationships to enable multipoint linkage analysis. Regions with nominal evidence for linkage were found on chromosomes 3 (P=0.013, 208.8 centiMorgans (cM)), 13 (P=0.012, 52.6 cM), and 15 (P=0.02, 100 cM). Regions with nominal evidence for association with stuttering that overlapped with a linkage signal are located on chromosomes 3 (P=0.0047, 195 cM), 9 (P=0.0067, 46.5 cM), and 13 (P=0.0055, 52.6 cM). We also conducted the first meta-analysis for stuttering using results from linkage studies in the Hutterites and The Illinois International Genetics of Stuttering Project and identified regions with nominal evidence for linkage on chromosomes 2 (P=0.013, 180–195 cM) and 5 (P=0.0051, 105–120 cM; P=0.015, 120–135 cM). None of the linkage signals detected in the Hutterite sample alone, or in the meta-analysis, meet genome-wide criteria for significance, although some of the stronger signals overlap linkage mapping signals previously reported for other speech and language disorders. PMID:17276504

Enhanced recoverable energy storage density and high efficiency of SrTiO3-based lead-free ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Haibo; Yan, Fei; Lin, Ying; Wang, Tong

2017-12-01

In this study, (1-x)SrTiO3-x(Bi0.48La0.02Na0.48Li0.02Ti0.98Zr0.02O3) [(1-x)ST-xBLNLTZ] lead-free ceramics with x = 0-0.4 were designed and fabricated using the tape casting process and the subsequent conventional solid-state sintering method. The (1-x)ST-xBLNLTZ ceramics are characterized by the excellent frequency stability of the dielectric constant, large maximum polarization (Pmax), low remnant polarization (Pr), and slim polarization-electric field (P-E) loops. For the composition of x = 0.4, Pmax is increased to 30.35 μC/cm2, 3.82 times higher than that of pure SrTiO3 (7.95 μC/cm2). The breakdown strength is larger than 200 kV/cm for all the samples. The sample with x = 0.1 exhibits a high recoverable energy storage density (Wrec) of 2.59 J/cm3 and a high energy storage efficiency (η) of 85% simultaneously. The results demonstrate that the (1-x)ST-xBLNLTZ ceramics are promising lead-free materials for high energy storage applications.

Bladder–Rectum Spacer Balloon in High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy in Cervix Carcinoma

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

Rai, Bhavana; Patel, Firuza D., E-mail: firuzapatel@gmail.com; Chakraborty, Santam

2013-04-01

Purpose: To compare bladder and rectum doses with the use of a bladder–rectum spacer balloon (BRSB) versus standard gauze packing in the same patient receiving 2 high-dose-rate intracavitary brachytherapy fractions. Methods and Materials: This was a randomized study to compare the reduction in bladder and rectum doses with the use of a BRSB compared with standard gauze packing in patients with carcinoma of the cervix being treated with high-dose-rate intracavitary brachytherapy. The patients were randomized between 2 arms. In arm A, vaginal packing was done with standard gauze packing in the first application, and BRSB was used in the secondmore » application. Arm B was the reverse of arm A. The International Commission for Radiation Units and Measurement (ICRU) point doses and doses to 0.1-cm{sup 3}, 1-cm{sup 3}, 2-cm{sup 3}, 5-cm{sup 3}, and 10-cm{sup 3} volumes of bladder and rectum were compared. The patients were also subjectively assessed for the ease of application and the time taken for application. Statistical analysis was done using the paired t test. Results: A total of 43 patients were enrolled; however, 3 patients had to be excluded because the BRSB could not be inserted owing to unfavorable local anatomy. Thus 40 patients (80 plans) were evaluated. The application was difficult in 3 patients with BRSB, and in 2 patients with BRSB the application time was prolonged. There was no significant difference in bladder doses to 0.1 cm{sup 3}, 1 cm{sup 3}, 2 cm{sup 3}, 5 cm{sup 3}, and 10 cm{sup 3} and ICRU bladder point. Statistically significant dose reductions to 0.1-cm{sup 3}, 1-cm{sup 3}, and 2-cm{sup 3} volumes for rectum were observed with the BRSB. No significant differences in 5-cm{sup 3} and 10-cm{sup 3} volumes and ICRU rectum point were observed. Conclusion: A statistically significant dose reduction was observed for small high-dose volumes in rectum with the BRSB. The doses to bladder were comparable for BRSB and gauze packing. Transparent balloons of variable sizes are recommended for patients with a less spacious vaginal cavity.« less

SU-E-T-145: MRI Gel Dosimetry Applied to Dose Profile Determination for 50kV X-Ray Tube.

PubMed

Schwarcke, M; Marques, T; Nicolucci, P; Filho, O Baffa

2012-06-01

The aim of this study was to use MRI gel dosimetry to determine the dose profile of 50kV MAGNUM® X-ray tube, MOXTEK Inc., in order to calibrate small solid dosimeters of alanine, tooth enamel and LiF-TLDs, commonly used in clinical quality assurance and datation dosimetry. MAGIC-f polymer gel was kept in two plastic containers of 100mL, avoiding attenuation of the primary beam trough the wall. Beam aberture of 3mm and dose rate of 16.5Gy/min were set, reproducing irradiation conditions of interest. The dose rate was assumed based on data of the vendor information of the tube and dose of 30Gy was delivered at the surface of the gel. MAGIC-f gel was irradiated at source-surface distances(SSD) of 0.1cm and 1.0cm. After 24hours of irradiation, gel was scanned in an Achieva® 3T Philips® MRI tomography using relaxometry sequence with 32 Echos, Time-to-Echo(TE) of 15.0ms, Time-to-Repetition(TR) of 6000ms and Field-of-View(FOV) of 0.5×0.5×2.0mm. Dose map at the central plain of irradiation was calculated from T2 relaxometry map. The gel dosimetry results evidenced a build-up depth of 0.13cm for SSD=0.1cm and no build-up was detected for SSD=1.0cm. However, the dose profile evidenced high gradient of dose in SSD=0.1, decreasing the dose from 100% to 30% in 1.4cm depth inside the gel; In turn, the dose distribution is homogeneous after 0.4cm deth for SSD=1.0cm. MRI gel dosimetry using MAGIC-f presented as feasible technique to determine dose profiles for kilovoltage x-rays tubes. The results evidenced that the calibration of small solid dosimeters can be performed using SSD of 1.0cm in the 50kV MAGNUM® X-ray tube using 0.4cm/g/cm 3 filter. This work was funded supported by CNPQ, CAPES and FAPESP. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Direct measurements of the non-DD cross section {sigma}{sub {psi}}{sub (3770){yields}}{sub non-DD} at E{sub cm}=3.773 GeV and the branching fraction for {psi}(3770){yields}non-DD

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

Ablikim, M.; Bai, J. Z.; Cai, X.

2007-12-15

By analyzing the data collected at the center-of-mass energy E{sub cm}=3.773 GeV and below the DD meson pair production threshold with the BES-II detector at the BEPC Collider, we directly measured the observed non-DD cross section of {psi}(3770) decay to be {sigma}{sub {psi}}{sub (3770){yields}}{sub non-DD}{sup obs}=(0.95{+-}0.35{+-}0.29) nb at E{sub cm}=3.773 GeV, and the branching fraction BF[{psi}(3770){yields}non-DD]=(13.4{+-}5.0{+-}3.6)% for inclusive non-DD decay of {psi}(3770). We also determined the cross section for DD meson pair production to be {sigma}{sub DD}{sup obs}=(6.12{+-}0.37{+-}0.23) nb at E{sub cm}=3.773 GeV.

Volumetric Growth of the Liver in the Human Fetus: An Anatomical, Hydrostatic, and Statistical Study

PubMed Central

Szpinda, Michał; Paruszewska-Achtel, Monika; Mila-Kierzenkowska, Celestyna; Elminowska-Wenda, Gabriela; Dombek, Małgorzata; Szpinda, Anna; Badura, Mateusz

2015-01-01

Using anatomical, hydrostatic, and statistical methods, liver volumes were assessed in 69 human fetuses of both sexes aged 18–30 weeks. No sex differences were found. The median of liver volume achieved by hydrostatic measurements increased from 6.57 cm3 at 18–21 weeks through 14.36 cm3 at 22–25 weeks to 20.77 cm3 at 26–30 weeks, according to the following regression: y = −26.95 + 1.74 × age ± Z  × (−3.15 + 0.27 × age). The median of liver volume calculated indirectly according to the formula liver volume = 0.55 × liver length × liver transverse diameter × liver sagittal diameter increased from 12.41 cm3 at 18–21 weeks through 28.21 cm3 at 22–25 weeks to 49.69 cm3 at 26–30 weeks. There was a strong relationship (r = 0.91, p < 0.001) between the liver volumes achieved by hydrostatic (x) and indirect (y) methods, expressed by y = −0.05 + 2.16x  ± 7.26. The liver volume should be calculated as follows liver volume = 0.26 × liver length × liver transverse diameter × liver sagittal diameter. The age-specific liver volumes are of great relevance in the evaluation of the normal hepatic growth and the early diagnosis of fetal micro- and macrosomias. PMID:26413551

Community composition, distribution, and contribution of microbenthos in offshore sediments from the Yellow Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Zhaocui; Xu, Kuidong; Lei, Yanli

2011-09-01

We investigated the spatial distribution and composition of microbenthos in the seafloor sediments from 48 stations in the Yellow Sea using epifluorescence microscopy and quantitative protargol staining techniques. The bacterial abundance ranged from 2.4×10 8 to 1.9×10 9 cells cm -3 in the wet sediment, about three orders of magnitude higher than that of phototrophic (PNFs, from 6.4×10 5 to 8.8×10 6 cells cm -3) and heterotrophic nanoflagellates (HNFs, from 5.8×10 4 to 5.9×10 6 cells cm -3) and four orders of magnitude higher than that of cyanobacteria (from 2.3×10 4 to 2.3×10 6 cells cm -3) in the upper 5 cm of sediments. The abundance of diatoms varied greatly, from 3-1.1×10 5 cells cm -3 in the upper 8 cm of sediments, whereas those of heterotrophic microflagellates (HMFs, 1-182 cells cm -3) and ciliates (1-221 cells cm -3) were less varied and lower. The biomass partitioning indicates the primary importance of benthic bacteria (50.3 μg C cm -3 on average), followed by PNFs (40.7 μg C cm -3), HNFs (19.3 μg C cm -3), and finally by cyanobacteria (8.8 μg C cm -3). Benthic diatoms (0.8 μg C cm -3), ciliates (0.15 μg C cm -3), and HMFs (0.03 μg C cm -3) contribute relatively small fractions to the total biomass of the microbenthos. About 95% of diatoms, 77% of ciliates, and 56% of HMFs were distributed in the upper 2 cm of sediments, whereas no distinct vertical distributions were observed for bacteria, cyanobacteria, PNFs, and HNFs. The microbenthos are quantitatively important in the shallow seafloor, wherein their main components have an average abundance three orders of magnitude higher than the corresponding planktonic organisms in the same sea area. Our estimates indicate that pico-sized phytobenthos might contribute a large proportion to the primary production. Benthic ciliates and heterotrophic flagellates contribute about 90% to the estimated combined metabolic rate of micro- and meiobenthic consumers in the whole sea area, with nanoheterotrophs accounting for the majority. The data suggest the potential for the rapid primary and secondary production of microbenthos and detrital utilization in the shallow seafloor sediments of the Yellow Sea.

Application of Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty in Patients of Rheumatic Heart Disease Mitral Stenosis Combined with Tricuspid Regurgitation

PubMed Central

Chen, Zhang-Qiang; Hong, Lang; Wang, Hong; Lu, Lin-Xiang; Yin, Qiu-Lin; Lai, Heng-Li; Li, Hua-Tai; Wang, Xiang

2015-01-01

Background: Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is frequently associated with severe mitral stenosis (MS), the importance of significant TR was often neglected. However, TR influences the outcome of patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) procedure in rheumatic heart disease patients with mitral valve (MV) stenosis and tricuspid valve regurgitation. Methods: Two hundred and twenty patients were enrolled in this study due to rheumatic heart disease with MS combined with TR. Mitral balloon catheter made in China was used to expand MV. The following parameters were measured before and after PBMV: MV area (MVA), TR area (TRA), atrial pressure and diameter, and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). The patients were followed for 6 months to 9 years. Results: After PBMV, the MVAs increased significantly (1.7 ± 0.3 cm2 vs. 0.9 ± 0.3 cm2, P < 0.01); TRA significantly decreased (6.3 ± 1.7 cm2 vs. 14.2 ± 6.5 cm2, P < 0.01), right atrial area (RAA) decreased significantly (21.5 ± 4.5 cm2 vs. 25.4 ± 4.3 cm2, P < 0.05), TRA/RAA (%) decreased significantly (29.3 ± 3.2% vs. 44.2 ± 3.6%, P < 0.01). TR velocity (TRV) and TR continue time (TRT) as well as TRV × TRT decreased significantly (183.4 ± 9.4 cm/s vs. 254.5 ± 10.7 cm/s, P < 0.01; 185.7 ± 13.6 ms vs. 238.6 ± 11.3 ms, P < 0.01; 34.2 ± 5.6 cm vs. 60.7 ± 8.5 cm, P < 0.01, respectively). The postoperative left atrial diameter (LAD) significantly reduced (41.3 ± 6.2 mm vs. 49.8 ± 6.8 mm, P < 0.01) and the postoperative right atrial diameter (RAD) significantly reduced (28.7 ± 5.6 mm vs. 46.5 ± 6.3 mm, P < 0.01); the postoperative left atrium pressure significantly reduced (15.6 ± 6.1 mmHg vs. 26.5 ± 6.6 mmHg, P < 0.01), the postoperative right atrial pressure decreased significantly (13.2 ± 2.4 mmHg vs. 18.5 ± 4.3 mmHg, P < 0.01). The pulmonary arterial pressure decreased significantly after PBMV (48.2 ± 10.3 mmHg vs. 60.6 ± 15.5 mmHg, P < 0.01). The symptom of chest tightness and short of breath obviously alleviated. All cases followed-up for 6 months to 9 years (average 75 ± 32 months), 2 patients with severe regurgitation died (1 case of massive cerebral infarction, and 1 case of heart failure after 6 years and 8 years, respectively), 2 cases lost access. At the end of follow-up, MVA has been reduced compared with the postoperative (1.4 ± 0.4 cm2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3 cm2, P < 0.05); LAD slightly increased compared with the postoperative (45.2 ± 5.7 mm vs. 41.4 ± 6.3 mm, P < 0.05), RAD slightly also increased compared with the postoperative (36.1 ± 6.3 mm vs. 28.6 ± 5.5 mm, P < 0.05), but did not recover to the preoperative level. TRA slightly increased compared with the postoperative, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The PAP and left ventricular ejection fraction appeared no statistical difference compared with the postoperative (P > 0.05), the remaining patients without serious complications. Conclusions: PBMV is a safe and effective procedure for MS combined with TR in patients of rheumatic heart disease. It can alleviate the symptoms and reduce the size of TR. It can also improve the quality-of-life and prognosis. Its recent and mid-term efficacy is certain. While its long-term efficacy remains to be observed. PMID:26021504

SU-F-T-497: Spatiotemporally Optimal, Personalized Prescription Scheme for Glioblastoma Patients Using the Proliferation and Invasion Glioma Model

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

Kim, M; Rockhill, J; Phillips, M

Purpose: To investigate a spatiotemporally optimal radiotherapy prescription scheme and its potential benefit for glioblastoma (GBM) patients using the proliferation and invasion (PI) glioma model. Methods: Standard prescription for GBM was assumed to deliver 46Gy in 23 fractions to GTV1+2cm margin and additional 14Gy in 7 fractions to GTV2+2cm margin. We simulated the tumor proliferation and invasion in 2D according to the PI glioma model with a moving velocity of 0.029(slow-move), 0.079(average-move), and 0.13(fast-move) mm/day for GTV2 with a radius of 1 and 2cm. For each tumor, the margin around GTV1 and GTV2 was varied to 0–6 cm and 1–3more » cm respectively. Total dose to GTV1 was constrained such that the equivalent uniform dose (EUD) to normal brain equals EUD with the standard prescription. A non-stationary dose policy, where the fractional dose varies, was investigated to estimate the temporal effect of the radiation dose. The efficacy of an optimal prescription scheme was evaluated by tumor cell-surviving fraction (SF), EUD, and the expected survival time. Results: Optimal prescription for the slow-move tumors was to use 3.0(small)-3.5(large) cm margins to GTV1, and 1.5cm margin to GTV2. For the average- and fast-move tumors, it was optimal to use 6.0cm margin for GTV1 suggesting that whole brain therapy is optimal, and then 1.5cm (average-move) and 1.5–3.0cm (fast-move, small-large) margins for GTV2. It was optimal to deliver the boost sequentially using a linearly decreasing fractional dose for all tumors. Optimal prescription led to 0.001–0.465% of the tumor SF resulted from using the standard prescription, and increased tumor EUD by 25.3–49.3% and the estimated survival time by 7.6–22.2 months. Conclusion: It is feasible to optimize a prescription scheme depending on the individual tumor characteristics. A personalized prescription scheme could potentially increase tumor EUD and the expected survival time significantly without increasing EUD to normal brain.« less

The surgical treatment of lordoscoliosis and hyperlordosis in patients with quadriplegic cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Karampalis, C; Tsirikos, A I

2014-06-01

We describe 13 patients with cerebral palsy and lordoscoliosis/hyperlordosis of the lumbar spine who underwent a posterior spinal fusion at a mean age of 14.5 years (10.8 to 17.4) to improve sitting posture and relieve pain. The mean follow-up was 3.3 years (2.2 to 6.2). The mean pre-operative lumbar lordosis was 108(°) (80 to 150(°)) and was corrected to 62(°) (43(°) to 85(°)); the mean thoracic kyphosis from 17(°) (-23(°) to 35(°)) to 47(°) (25(°) to 65(°)); the mean scoliosis from 82(°) (0(°) to 125(°)) to 22(°) (0(°) to 40(°)); the mean pelvic obliquity from 21(°) (0(°) to 38(°)) to 3(°) (0(°) to 15(°)); the mean sacral slope from 79(°) (54(°) to 90(°)) to 50(°) (31(°) to 66(°)). The mean pre-operative coronal imbalance was 5 cm (0 cm to 8.9 cm) and was corrected to 0.6 cm (0 to 3.2). The mean sagittal imbalance of -8 cm (-16 cm to 7.8 cm) was corrected to -1.6 cm (-4 cm to 2.5 cm). The mean operating time was 250 minutes (180 to 360 minutes) and intra-operative blood loss 0.8 of estimated blood volume (0.3 to 2 estimated blood volume). The mean intensive care and hospital stay were 3.5 days (2 to 8) and 14.5 days (10 to 27), respectively. Three patients lost a significant amount of blood intra-operatively and subsequently developed chest or urinary infections and superior mesenteric artery syndrome. An increased pre-operative lumbar lordosis and sacral slope were associated with increased peri-operative morbidity: scoliosis and pelvic obliquity were not. A reduced lumbar lordosis and increased thoracic kyphosis correlated with better global sagittal balance at follow-up. All patients and their parents reported excellent surgical outcomes. Lordoscoliosis and hyperlordosis are associated with significant morbidity in quadriplegic patients. They are rare deformities and their treatment is challenging. Sagittal imbalance is the major component: it can be corrected by posterior fusion of the spine with excellent functional results. ©2014 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Transformation of soil organic matter in leached chernozems under minimized treatment in the forest-steppe of West Siberia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharkov, I. N.; Samokhvalova, L. M.; Mishina, P. V.

2016-07-01

Changes in the contents of total organic carbon and the carbon of easily mineralizable fractions of organic matter (labile humus, detritus, and mortmass) in the layers of 0-10, 10-25, and 0-25 cm were studied in leached chernozems ((Luvic Chernozems (Loamic, Aric)) subjected to deep plowing and surface tillage for nine years. In the layer of 0-25 cm, the content of Corg did not show significant difference between these two treatments and comprised 3.68-3.92% in the case of deep plowing and 3.63-4.08% in the case of surface tillage. Tillage practices greatly affected the distribution of easily mineralizable fractions of organic matter in the layers of 0-10 and 10-25 cm, though the difference between two treatments for the entire layer (0-25 cm) was insignificant. Surface tillage resulted in the increase in the contents of mortmass (by 59%), detritus (by 32%), and labile humus (by 8%) in the layer of 0-10 cm in comparison with deep plowing. At the same time, the contents of these fractions in the layer of 10-25 cm in the surface tillage treatment decreased by 67, 46, and 3%, respectively. The estimate of the nitrogen-mineralizing capacity made according to the data on the uptake of soil nitrogen by oat plants in a special greenhouse experiment confirmed the observed regularities of the redistribution of easily mineralizable organic matter fractions by the soil layers. In case of surface tillage, it increased by 23% in the layer of 0-10 cm; for the layer of 0-25 cm, no significant differences in the uptake of nitrogen by oat plants were found for the two studied treatments.

Genetic studies of stuttering in a founder population.

PubMed

Wittke-Thompson, Jacqueline K; Ambrose, Nicoline; Yairi, Ehud; Roe, Cheryl; Cook, Edwin H; Ober, Carole; Cox, Nancy J

2007-01-01

Genome-wide linkage and association analyses were conducted to identify genetic determinants of stuttering in a founder population in which 48 individuals affected with stuttering are connected in a single 232-person genealogy. A novel approach was devised to account for all necessary relationships to enable multipoint linkage analysis. Regions with nominal evidence for linkage were found on chromosomes 3 (P=0.013, 208.8 centiMorgans (cM)), 13 (P=0.012, 52.6 cM), and 15 (P=0.02, 100 cM). Regions with nominal evidence for association with stuttering that overlapped with a linkage signal are located on chromosomes 3 (P=0.0047, 195 cM), 9 (P=0.0067, 46.5 cM), and 13 (P=0.0055, 52.6 cM). We also conducted the first meta-analysis for stuttering using results from linkage studies in the Hutterites and The Illinois International Genetics of Stuttering Project and identified regions with nominal evidence for linkage on chromosomes 2 (P=0.013, 180-195 cM) and 5 (P=0.0051, 105-120 cM; P=0.015, 120-135 cM). None of the linkage signals detected in the Hutterite sample alone, or in the meta-analysis, meet genome-wide criteria for significance, although some of the stronger signals overlap linkage mapping signals previously reported for other speech and language disorders. After reading this article, the reader will be able to: (1) summarize information about the background of common disorders and methodology of genetic studies; (2) evaluate the role of genetics in stuttering; (3) discuss the value of using founder populations in genetic studies; (4) articulate the importance of combining several studies in a meta-analysis; (5) discuss the overlap of genetic signals identified in stuttering with other speech and language disorders.

Factors Affecting Prostate Volume Estimation in Computed Tomography Images

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

Yang, Cheng-Hsiu; Wang, Shyh-Jen; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan

2011-04-01

The aim of this study was to investigate how apex-localizing methods and the computed tomography (CT) slice thickness affected the CT-based prostate volume estimation. Twenty-eight volunteers underwent evaluations of prostate volume by CT, where the contour segmentations were performed by three observers. The bottom of ischial tuberosities (ITs) and the bulb of the penis were used as reference positions to locate the apex, and the distances to the apex were recorded as 1.3 and 2.0 cm, respectively. Interobserver variations to locate ITs and the bulb of the penis were, on average, 0.10 cm (range 0.03-0.38 cm) and 0.30 cm (rangemore » 0.00-0.98 cm), respectively. The range of CT slice thickness varied from 0.08-0.48 cm and was adopted to examine the influence of the variation on volume estimation. The volume deviation from the reference case (0.08 cm), which increases in tandem with the slice thickness, was within {+-} 3 cm{sup 3}, regardless of the adopted apex-locating reference positions. In addition, the maximum error of apex identification was 1.5 times of slice thickness. Finally, based on the precise CT films and the methods of apex identification, there were strong positive correlation coefficients for the estimated prostate volume by CT and the transabdominal ultrasonography, as found in the present study (r > 0.87; p < 0.0001), and this was confirmed by Bland-Altman analysis. These results will help to identify factors that affect prostate volume calculation and to contribute to the improved estimation of the prostate volume based on CT images.« less

SU-F-J-149: Beam and Cryostat Scatter Characteristics of the Elekta MR-Linac

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

Duglio, M; Towe, S; Roberts, D

2016-06-15

Purpose: The Elekta MR-Linac combines a digital linear accelerator system with a 1.5T Philips MRI machine. This study aimed to determine key characteristic information regarding the MR-Linac beam and in particular it evaluated the effect of the MR cryostat on the out of field scatter dose. Methods: Tissue phantom ratios, profiles and depth doses were acquired in plastic water with an IC-profiler or with an MR compatible water tank using multiple system configurations (Full (B0= 1.5T), Full (B0=0T) and No cryostat). Additionally, an in-house CAD based Monte Carlo code based on Penelope was used to provide comparative data. Results: Withmore » the cryostat in place and B0=0T, the measured TPR for the MR Linac system was 0.702, indicating an energy of around 7MV. Without the cryostat, the measured TPR was 0.669. For the Full (B0=0T) case, out of field dose at a depth of 10 cm in the isocentric plane, 5 cm from the field edge was 0.8%, 3.1% and 5.4% for 3×3 cm{sup 2}, 10×10 cm{sup 2} and 20×20 cm{sup 2} fields respectively.The out of field dose (averaged between 5 cm and 10 cm beyond the field edges) in the “with cryostat” case is 0.78% (absolute difference) higher than without the cryostat for clinically relevant field sizes (i.e. 10×10 cm{sup 2}) and comparable to measured conventional 6MV treatment beams at a depth of 10 cm (within 0.1% between 5 cm and 6 cm from field edge). At dose maximum and at 5 cm from the field edge, the “with cryostat” out of field scatter for a 10×10 cm{sup 2} field is 1.5% higher than “without cryostat', with a modest increase (0.9%) compared to Agility 6MV in the same conditions. Conclusion: The study has presented typical characteristics of the MR-Linac beam and determined that out of field dose is comparable to conventional treatment beams. All authors are employed by Elekta Ltd., who are developing an MR-Linac.« less

Effect of metal ratio and calcination temperature of chromium based mixed oxides catalyst on FAME density from palm fatty acid distillate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Z.; Fatimah, S.; Shahar, S.; Noor, A. C.

2017-09-01

Mixed oxides chromium based catalysts were synthesized via sol-gel method for the esterification of palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) to produce fatty acid methyl ester (FAME). The reactions were conducted in a batch reactor at reaction temperature of 160 °C for 4 h and methanol to PFAD molar ratio of 3:1. The effects of catalyst preparation conditions which are the mixed metal ratio and calcination temperature were studied. The various metal ratio of Cr:Mn (1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1) and Cr:Ti (0:1, 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1) resulted in FAME density ranges from 1.041 g/cm3 to 0.853 g/cm3 and 1.107 g/cm3 to 0.836 g/cm3, respectively. The best condition catalyst was found to be Cr:Ti metal ratio of 1:2 and Cr:Mn metal ratio of 1:1. The calcination temperature of the mixed oxides between 300 °C to 700°C shows effect on the FAME density obtained in the reaction. The calcination at 500°C gave the lowest FAME density of 0.836 g/cm3 and 0.853 g/cm3 for Cr:Ti and Cr:Mn mixed oxides, respectively. The density of FAME is within the value range of the biodiesel fuel property. Thus, mixed oxides of Cr-Ti and Cr-Mn have good potentials as heterogeneous catalyst for FAME synthesis from high acid value oils such as PFAD.

Coulomb-stable triply charged diatomic: HeY3+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wesendrup, Ralf; Pernpointner, Markus; Schwerdtfeger, Peter

1999-11-01

Accurate relativistic coupled-cluster calculations show that the triply charged species HeY3+ is a stable molecule and represents the lightest diatomic trication that does not undergo a Coulomb fragmentation into charged fragments. The diatomic potential-energy curve is approximated by an extended Morse potential, and vibrational-rotational constants for HeY3+ are predicted (Re=224.3 pm, D0=0.394 eV, ωe=437 cm-1, ωexe=15.8 cm-1, Be=0.877 cm-1). It is further shown that the He-Y3+ bond can basically be described as a charge-induced dipole interaction.

Assessment of growth and spectral properties of Cr3+-doped La0.83Y0.29Sc2.88(BO3)4 crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yisheng; Sun, Shijia; Lin, Zhoubin; Zhang, Lizhen; Wang, Guofu

2017-10-01

This paper reports the spectral characteristic of Cr3+-doped La0.83Y0.29 Sc2.88 (BO3)4 crystal. Cr3+-doped La0.83Y0.29Sc2.88 (BO3)4 crystal was grown from a flux of Li6B4O9 by the top seeded Solution growth method. Cr3+:La0.83Y0.29 Sc2.88 (BO3)4 crystal exhibits broad absorption and emission bands of Cr3+ ions. The absorption cross-section σa is 3.38 × 10-20 cm2 at 467 nm and 4.40 × 10-20 cm2 at 656 nm for E//c, respectively. The emission band with a peak at 906 nm has a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 188 nm for E//c. The emission cross-section σe at 906 nm is 2.35 × 10-20 cm2 for E//c axis and 2.03 × 10-20 cm2 for E⊥c axis. The fluorescence lifetime of 4T2 → 4A2 transition is 37.7 μs. The investigated result indicates that it may be considered as a potential CW tunable laser crystal material.

Mechanisms of valve competency after mitral valve annuloplasty for ischaemic mitral regurgitation using the Geoform ring: insights from three-dimensional echocardiography.

PubMed

Armen, Todd A; Vandse, Rashmi; Crestanello, Juan A; Raman, Subha V; Bickle, Katherine M; Nathan, Nadia S

2009-01-01

Left ventricular remodelling leads to functional mitral regurgitation resulting from annular dilatation, leaflet tethering, tenting, and decreased leaflet coaptation. Mitral valve annuloplasty restores valve competency, improving the patient's functional status and ventricular function. This study was designed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying mitral valve competency after the implantation of a Geoform annuloplasty ring using three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography. Seven patients (mean age of 65 years) with ischaemic mitral regurgitation underwent mitral valve annuloplasty with the Geoform ring and coronary artery bypass surgery. Pre- and post-operative 3D echocardiograms were performed. Following mitral annuloplasty, mitral regurgitation decreased from 3.4+/-0.2 to 0.9+/-0.3 (P-value<0.0001), mitral valve tenting volume from 13+/-1.7 to 3.2+/-0.3 mL (P-value<0.001), annulus area from 12.6+/-1.0 to 3.3+/-0.2 cm2 (P-value<0.0001), valve circumference from 13+/-0.5 to 7.3+/-0.3 cm (P-value<0.0001), septolateral distance from 2.1+/-0.1 to 1.4+/-0.06 cm (P-value<0.01) and intercommissural distance from 3.4+/-0.1 to 2.7+/-0.03 cm (P-value<0.03). There was significant decrease in the septolateral distance at the level of A2-P2 with respect to other regions. These geometric changes were associated with the improvement in the NYHA class from 3.1+/-0.3 to 1.3+/-0.3 (P-value<0.002). The mitral valve annuloplasty with the Geoform ring restores leaflet coaptation and eliminates mitral regurgitation by effectively modifying the mitral annular geometry.

Bilateral implantation of +2.5 D multifocal intraocular lens and contralateral implantation of +2.5 D and +3.0 D multifocal intraocular lenses: Clinical outcomes.

PubMed

Nuijts, Rudy M M A; Jonker, Soraya M R; Kaufer, Robert A; Lapid-Gortzak, Ruth; Mendicute, Javier; Martinez, Cristina Peris; Schmickler, Stefanie; Kohnen, Thomas

2016-02-01

To assess the clinical visual outcomes of bilateral implantation of Restor +2.5 diopter (D) multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) and contralateral implantation of a Restor +2.5 D multifocal IOL in the dominant eye and Restor +3.0 D multifocal IOL in the fellow eye. Multicenter study at 8 investigative sites. Prospective randomized parallel-group patient-masked 2-arm study. This study comprised adults requiring bilateral cataract extraction followed by multifocal IOL implantation. The primary endpoint was corrected intermediate visual acuity (CIVA) at 60 cm, and the secondary endpoint was corrected near visual acuity (CNVA) at 40 cm. Both endpoints were measured 3 months after implantation with a noninferiority margin of Δ = 0.1 logMAR. In total, 103 patients completed the study (53 bilateral, 50 contralateral). At 3 months, the mean CIVA at 60 cm was 0.13 logMAR and 0.10 logMAR in the bilateral group and contralateral group, respectively (difference 0.04 logMAR), achieving noninferiority. Noninferiority was not attained for CNVA at 40 cm; mean values at 3 months for bilateral and contralateral implantation were 0.26 logMAR and 0.11 logMAR, respectively (difference 0.15 logMAR). Binocular defocus curves suggested similar performance in distance vision between the 2 groups. Treatment-emergent ocular adverse events rates were similar between the groups. Bilateral implantation of the +2.5 D multifocal IOL resulted in similar distance as contralateral implantation of the +2.5 D multifocal IOL and +3.0 D multifocal IOL for intermediate vision (60 cm), while noninferiority was not achieved for near distances (40 cm). Copyright © 2016 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Temperature-dependent rate coefficients for the reactions of the hydroxyl radical with the atmospheric biogenics isoprene, alpha-pinene and delta-3-carene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dillon, Terry J.; Dulitz, Katrin; Groß, Christoph B. M.; Crowley, John N.

2017-12-01

Pulsed laser methods for OH generation and detection were used to study atmospheric degradation reactions for three important biogenic gases: OH + isoprene (Reaction R1), OH +α-pinene (Reaction R2) and OH + Δ-3-carene (Reaction R3). Gas-phase rate coefficients were characterized by non-Arrhenius kinetics for all three reactions. For (R1), k1 (241-356 K) = (1.93±0.08) × 10-11exp{(466±12)/T} cm3 molecule-1 s-1 was determined, with a room temperature value of k1 (297 K) = (9.3±0.4) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1, independent of bath-gas pressure (5-200 Torr) and composition (M = N2 or air). Accuracy and precision were enhanced by online optical monitoring of isoprene, with absolute concentrations obtained via an absorption cross section, σisoprene = (1.28±0.06) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1 at λ = 184.95 nm, determined in this work. These results indicate that significant discrepancies between previous absolute and relative-rate determinations of k1 result in part from σ values used to derive the isoprene concentration in high-precision absolute determinations.

Similar methods were used to determine rate coefficients (in 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1) for (R2)-(R3): k2 (238-357 K) = (1.83±0.04) × exp{(330±6)/T} and k3 (235-357 K) = (2.48±0.14) × exp{(357±17)/T}. This is the first temperature-dependent dataset for (R3) and enables the calculation of reliable atmospheric lifetimes with respect to OH removal for e.g. boreal forest springtime conditions. Room temperature values of k2 (296 K) = (5.4±0.2) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and k3 (297 K) = (8.1±0.3) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 were independent of bath-gas pressure (7-200 Torr, N2 or air) and in good agreement with previously reported values. In the course of this work, 184.95 nm absorption cross sections were determined: σ = (1.54±0.08) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1 for α-pinene and (2.40±0.12) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1 for Δ-3-carene.

Low-valent low-coordinated manganese(I) ion dimer: a temperature dependent W-band EPR study.

PubMed

Sorace, Lorenzo; Golze, Christian; Gatteschi, Dante; Bencini, Alessandro; Roesky, Herbert W; Chai, Jianfang; Stückl, A Claudia

2006-01-09

W-Band EPR spectra of [[HC(CMeNAr)(2)]Mn](2) (Ar = 2,6-(i)Pr(2)C(6)H(3)) have been measured at different temperatures. The spectra show a behavior which is typical for an antiferromagnetically coupled dimer with excited states populating upon increasing temperature. By following the intensity variation of the different features of the spectra with temperature, we attributed different groups of resonances to the S = 1, 2, and 3 states of the dimer. Their corresponding spin Hamiltonian parameters were derived from simulations. The zero-field-splitting parameters measured in this way were D(S=1) = 1.57 cm(-1) and E(S=1) = 0.064 cm(-1), D(S=2) = 0.266 cm(-1) and E(S=2) = 0.0045 cm(-1), and D(S=3) = 0.075 cm(-1) and E(S=3) = 0. On the basis of the molecular structure of the system, we could estimate that zero-field splitting (ZFS) is the result of anisotropic exchange and single-ion anisotropic contributions of similar magnitude (|D| approximately 0.2 cm(-1)). These results allow a deeper insight into the electronic structure of the Mn(I) centers in low-coordination environments, further supporting the electronic structure of Mn(I) to be 4s(1)3d(5), as previously indicated by DFT calculations.

Effects of copper excess and copper deficiency on the structural and electrical properties of bulk Cu{sub x}SnSe{sub 3} with x=1.6–2.2

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

Wubet, Walelign; Kuo, Dong-Hau, E-mail: dhkuo@mail.ntust.edu.tw

2015-03-15

Effects of the Cu variation on the morphological, structural, and electrical properties of bulk Cu{sub x}SnSe{sub 3} (CTSe) with x=1.6–2.2 have been investigated. Dense CTSe pellets with grains of 3–4 µm were obtained after sintering at 550 °C. All CTSe pellets showed a dominant p-type behavior. CTSe at x=2.0 with a hole concentration (n{sub p}) of 1.02×10{sup 18} cm{sup −3} and Hall mobility (μ) of 225 cm{sup 2}/V/s had a highest conductivity (σ) of 39 S/cm. CTSe at x=1.6 with n{sub p} of 5.0×10{sup 17} cm{sup −3} and of 11 cm{sup 2}/V/s had a lowest of 0.90 S/cm. The explanation,more » based upon vacancies and antisite defects, for the changes in electrical property with the Cu content is supported by the data from lattice parameter. The study in bulk properties of CTSe and its defects is helpful for selecting the suitable absorber composition to fabricate thin film solar cells. - Graphical abstract: Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} is an absorber candidate for solar cells. The Cu stoichiometry on electrical properties, which is important for CIGS and CZTS, is investigated and the Cu-deficiency composition is recommended. - Highlights: • Cu{sub x}SnSe{sub 3} (CTSe) bulks with 1.6≤x≤2.2 were prepared by reactive sintering. • Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} with n{sub p} of 1.02×10{sup 18} cm{sup −3} and μ of 225 cm{sup 2}/V/s had highest σ of 39 S/cm. • Cu{sub 1.6}SnSe{sub 3} with n{sub p}=5.0×10{sup 17} cm{sup −3} and μ=11 cm{sup 2}/V/s had lowest σ=0.90 S/cm. • Lower n{sub p} at CTSe at x=1.6 is related to the formation of the Sn-to-Cu defect. • The drop in n{sub p} for CTSe at x=2.2 indicates V{sub Sn}{sup 4−} dominates over Cu{sub Sn}{sup 3−} defect.« less

Crust-mantle coupling mechanism in Cameroon, West Africa, revealed by 3D S-wave velocity and azimuthal anisotropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ojo, Adebayo Oluwaseun; Ni, Sidao; Chen, Haopeng; Xie, Jun

2018-01-01

To understand the depth variation of deformation beneath Cameroon, West Africa, we developed a new 3D model of S-wave isotropic velocity and azimuthal anisotropy from joint analysis of ambient seismic noise and earthquake surface wave dispersion. We found that the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) is well delineated by slow phase velocities in contrast with the neighboring Congo Craton, in agreement with previous studies. Apart from the Congo Craton and the Oubanguides Belt, the uppermost mantle revealed a relatively slow velocity indicating a thinned or thermally altered lithosphere. The direction of fast axis in the upper crust is mostly NE-SW, but trending approximately N-S around Mt. Oku and the southern CVL. The observed crustal azimuthal anisotropy is attributed to alignment of cracks and crustal deformation related to magmatic activities. A widespread zone of weak-to-zero azimuthal anisotropy in the mid-lower crust shows evidence for vertical mantle flow or isotropic mid-lower crust. In the uppermost mantle, the fast axis direction changed from NE-SW to NW-SE around Mt. Oku and northern Cameroon. This suggests a layered mechanism of deformation and revealed that the mantle lithosphere has been deformed. NE-SW fast azimuths are observed beneath the Congo Craton and are consistent with the absolute motion of the African plate, suggesting a mantle origin for the observed azimuthal anisotropy. Our tomographically derived fast directions are consistent with the local SKS splitting results in some locations and depths, enabling us to constrain the origin of the observed splitting. The different feature of azimuthal anisotropy in the upper crust and the uppermost mantle implies decoupling between deformation of crust and mantle in Cameroon.

Acaricidal activities of β-caryophyllene oxide and structural analogues derived from Psidium cattleianum oil against house dust mites.

PubMed

Oh, Min-Seok; Yang, Ji-Yeon; Kim, Min-Gi; Lee, Hoi-Seon

2014-05-01

This study was to evaluate the acaricidal activities of an active compound isolated from Psidium cattleianum and structural analogues against Dermatophagoides farinae and D. pteronyssinus. β-Caryophyllene oxide was isolated using chromatographic techniques. Based on the 50% lethal concentration (LD50) values against D. farinae using the fumigant method, β-caryophyllene oxide (1.36 µg cm(-2)) was ∼ 7.52 times more toxic than benzyl benzoate (10.23 µg cm(-2)), followed by α-caryophyllene (1.75 µg cm(-2)) and β-caryophyllene (3.13 µg cm(-2)). Against D. pteronyssinus, β-caryophyllene oxide (1.38 µg cm(-2)) was ∼ 7.22 times more toxic than benzyl benzoate (9.96 µg cm(-2)), followed by α-caryophyllene (1.71 µg cm(-2)) and β-caryophyllene (3.58 µg cm(-2)). In the contact toxicity method against D. farinae, β-caryophyllene oxide (0.44 µg cm(-2)) was ∼ 17.27 times more active than benzyl benzoate (7.60 µg cm(-2)), followed by α-caryophyllene (0.67 µg cm(-2)) and β-caryophyllene (0.91 µg cm(-2)). Against D. pteronyssinus, β-caryophyllene oxide (0.47 µg cm(-2)) was ∼ 13.06 times more effective than benzyl benzoate (6.14 µg cm(-2)), followed by α-caryophyllene (1.71 µg cm(-2)) and β-caryophyllene (3.58 µg cm(-2)). β-Caryophyllene oxide and structural analogues have potential for development as preventive agents for the control of house dust mites. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

[In vitro evaluation of the method effectiveness to limit inflation pressure cuffs of endotracheal tubes].

PubMed

Coelho, Rafael de Macedo; Paiva, Thiago Trigueiro Morais de; Mathias, Ligia Andrade da Silva Telles

2016-01-01

Cuffs of tracheal tubes protect the lower airway from aspiration of gastric contents and facilitate ventilation, but may cause many complications, especially when the cuff pressure exceeds 30cm H2O. This occurs in over 30% of conventional insufflations, so it is recommended to limit this pressure. In this study we evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of a method of limiting the cuff pressure to a range between 20 and 30cm H2O. Using an adapter to connect the tested tube to the anesthesia machine, the relief valve was regulated to 30cm H2O, inflating the cuff by operating the rapid flow of oxygen button. There were 33 trials for each tube of three manufacturers, of five sizes (6.5 to 8.5), using three times inflation (10, 15 and 20seconds), totaling 1485 tests. After inflation, the pressure obtained was measured with a manometer. Pressure >30cm H2O or <20cm H2O were considered failures. There were eight failures (0.5%, 95% CI: 0.1-0.9%), with all by pressures <20cm H2O and after 10seconds inflation (1.6%, 95% CI: 0 5-2.7%). One failure occurred with a 6.5 tube (0.3%, 95% CI: -0.3-0.9%), six with 7.0 tubes (2%, 95% CI: 0.4 to 3.6%), and one with a 7.5 tube (0.3%, 95% CI: -0.3-0.9%). This method was effective for inflating tracheal tube cuffs of different sizes and manufacturers, limiting its pressure to a range between 20 and 30cm H2O, with a success rate of 99.5% (95% CI: 99.1-99.9%). Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

In vitro evaluation of the method effectiveness to limit inflation pressure cuffs of endotracheal tubes.

PubMed

Coelho, Rafael de Macedo; de Paiva, Thiago Trigueiro Morais; da Silva Telles Mathias, Ligia Andrade

2016-01-01

Cuffs of tracheal tubes protect the lower airway from aspiration of gastric contents and facilitate ventilation, but may cause many complications, especially when the cuff pressure exceeds 30cm H2O. This occurs in over 30% of conventional insufflations, so it is recommended to limit this pressure. In this study we evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of a method of limiting the cuff pressure to a range between 20 and 30cm H2O. Using an adapter to connect the tested tube to the anesthesia machine, the relief valve was regulated to 30cm H2O, inflating the cuff by operating the rapid flow of oxygen button. There were 33 trials for each tube of three manufacturers, of five sizes (6.5-8.5), using three times inflation (10, 15 and 20s), totaling 1485 tests. After inflation, the pressure obtained was measured with a manometer. Pressure >30cm H2O or <20cm H2O were considered failures. There were eight failures (0.5%, 95% CI: 0.1-0.9%), with all by pressures <20cm H2O and after 10s inflation (1.6%, 95% CI: 0 5-2.7%). One failure occurred with a 6.5 tube (0.3%, 95% CI: -0.3 to 0.9%), six with 7.0 tubes (2%, 95% CI: 0.4-3.6%), and one with a 7.5 tube (0.3%, 95% CI: -0.3 to 0.9%). This method was effective for inflating tracheal tube cuffs of different sizes and manufacturers, limiting its pressure to a range between 20 and 30cm H2O, with a success rate of 99.5% (95% CI: 99.1-99.9%). Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Structural and electrical properties of Si- and Ti-doped Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} bulks

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

Wubet, Walelign; Kuo, Dong-Hau, E-mail: dhkuo@mail.ntust.edu.tw

2015-07-15

Silicon-doped (Cu{sub 2}(Sn{sub 1−x}Si{sub x})Se{sub 3} and titanium-doped (Cu{sub 2}(Sn{sub 1−x}Ti{sub x})Se{sub 3} at x=0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 were prepared at 550 °C for 2 h with soluble sintering aids of volatile Sb{sub 2}S{sub 3} and Te. Defect chemistry was studied by measuring structural and electrical properties of Si-doped and Ti-doped Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} (CTSe) as a function of dopant concentration. Si-doped CTSe pellets show p-type at x=0 and 0.05 and n-type at x=0.1, 0.15, and 0.2, whereas Ti-doped CTSe pellets show p-type at x=0, 0.05 and 0.1 and n-type at x=0.15 and 0.2. The lowest hole concentrationmore » of 3.6×10{sup 17} cm{sup −3} and the highest mobility of 1525 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1} were obtained for the Si-doped (Cu{sub 2}(Sn{sub 1−x}Si{sub x})Se{sub 3} bulks at x=0.1 (10% Si), while they were 3.1×10{sup 17} cm{sup −3} and 813 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1} for the Ti-doped CTSe bulks at x=0.15 (15% Ti), as compared to 1.1×10{sup 18} cm{sup −3} and 209 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1} for undoped one. The explanations based upon antisite defects of Si-to-Sn, Ti-to-Sn, Cu-to-Sn, and Sn-to-Cu for the changes in electrical property were declared. The study in bulk Si-doped and Ti-doped CTSe is based upon defect state and is consistent and supported by the data of electrical property and lattice parameter. - Graphical abstract: Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} (CTSe) semiconductor is interesting because of its adjustable electrical properties by extrinsic doping. Si and Ti doping in CTSe leads to high carrier mobility above 800 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1}. - Highlights: • Cu{sub 2}SnSe{sub 3} (CTSe) is an interesting semiconductor because of its adjustable electrical properties. • Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2}, on the contrary, is difficult to change its electrical properties. • Si and Ti doping can change p-CTSe to n-CTSe. • The lowest electron concentration in doped CTSe had the highest mobility above 800 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1}. • The defects of Si-to-Sn, Ti-to-Sn, Cu-to-Sn, and Sn-to-Cu in Si- and Ti-doped CTSe were proposed.« less

Diet soda intake is associated with long-term increases in waist circumference in a biethnic cohort of older adults: the San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging.

PubMed

Fowler, Sharon P G; Williams, Ken; Hazuda, Helen P

2015-04-01

To examine the relationship between diet soda (DS) intake (DSI) and long-term waist circumference (WC) change (ΔWC) in the biethnic San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging (SALSA). Prospective cohort study. San Antonio, Texas, neighborhoods. SALSA examined 749 Mexican-American and European-American individuals aged 65 and older at baseline (baseline, 1992-96); 474 (79.1%) survivors completed follow-up 1 (FU1, 2000-01), 413 (73.4%) completed FU2 (2001-03), and 375 (71.0%) completed FU3 (2003-04). Participants completed a mean of 2.64 follow-up intervals, for 9.4 total follow-up years. DSI, WC, height, and weight were measured at outset and at the conclusion of each interval: baseline, FU1, FU2, and FU3. Adjusted for initial WC, demographic characteristics, physical activity, diabetes mellitus, and smoking, mean interval ΔWC of DS users (2.11 cm, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.45-2.76 cm) was almost triple that of nonusers (0.77 cm, 95% CI = 0.29-1.23 cm) (P < .001). Adjusted interval ΔWCs were 0.77 cm (95% CI = 0.29-1.23 cm) for nonusers, 1.76 cm (95% CI = 0.96-2.57 cm) for occasional users, and 3.04 cm (95% CI = 1.82-4.26 cm) for daily users (P = .002 for trend). This translates to ΔWCs of 0.80 inches for nonusers, 1.83 inches for occasional users, and 3.16 for daily users over the total SALSA follow-up. In subanalyses stratified for selected covariates, ΔWC point estimates were consistently higher in DS users. In a striking dose-response relationship, increasing DSI was associated with escalating abdominal obesity, a potential pathway for cardiometabolic risk in this aging population. © 2015, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2015, The American Geriatrics Society.

Endobiliary Stent Position Changes during External-beam Radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Chu, Kwun-Ye; Eccles, Cynthia L.; Brunner, Thomas B.

2015-01-01

Purpose Endobiliary stents can be used as surrogates for pancreatic localization when using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) during external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT). This work reports on interfraction stent position changes during EBRT for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). Materials and Methods Six patients with endobiliary stents who underwent EBRT for LAPC were assessed. Measurements from the most superior aspect of the stent (sup stent) and the most inferior aspect of the stent (inf stent) to the most inferior, posterior aspect of the L1 vertebra central spinous process were determined from daily treatment CBCTs and compared with those determined from the planning computed tomography (CT) scan. Changes in stent-L1 measurements were interpreted as changes in relative stent position. Results Three patients showed mean interfraction stent position changes of ≥1 cm when treatment measurements were compared with planning measurements. The sup stent for patient A moved to the right (2.66 ± 2.77 cm) and inferiorly (3.0 ± 3.12 cm), and the inf stent moved to the right (1.92 ± 2.02 cm) inferiorly (3.23 ± 3.34 cm) and posteriorly (1.41 ± 1.43 cm). The inf stent for patient B moved superiorly (2.23 ± 0.49 cm) and posteriorly (1.72 ± 0.59 cm). The sup and inf stent for patient F moved inferiorly (0.98 ± 0.35 cm and 1.21 ± 0.38 cm, respectively). The remaining three patients C, D, and E showed interfraction position changes of <1 cm. Conclusion Endobiliary stent migration and deformation were observed in a small subset of patients. Further investigation is required before confirming their use as surrogates for LAPC target localization during image-guided EBRT. PMID:26090069

Nutritional characteristics of camelina meal for 3-week-old broiler chickens.

PubMed

Pekel, A Y; Kim, J I; Chapple, C; Adeola, O

2015-03-01

Limited information on nutritional characteristics on camelina meal for broiler chickens limits its use in diets of broiler chickens. The objectives of this study were to determine the ileal digestible energy (IDE), ME, and MEn contents of 2 different camelina meal (CM1 and CM2) samples for 3-wk-old broiler chickens using the regression method and to determine glucosinolate compounds in the camelina meal samples. The CM1 and CM2 were incorporated into a corn-soybean meal-based reference diet at 3 levels (0, 100, or 200 g/kg) by replacing the energy-yielding ingredients. These 5 diets (reference diet, and 100 and 200 g/kg camelina meal from each of CM1 and CM2) were fed to 320 male Ross 708 broilers from d 21 to 28 post hatching with 8 birds per cage and 8 replicates per treatment in a randomized complete block design. Excreta were collected twice daily from d 25 to 28, and jejunal digesta and ileal digesta from the Meckel's diverticulum to approximately 2 cm proximal to the ileocecal junction were collected on d 28. The total glucosinolate content for CM1 and CM2 were 24.2 and 22.7 nmol/mg, respectively. Jejunal digesta viscosity was linearly increased (P<0.001) from 2.2 to 4.1 cP with increasing dietary camelina meal levels. There were linear effects (P<0.001) of CM1 and CM2 substitution on final weight, weight gain, feed intake, and G:F. The inclusion of CM1 and CM2 linearly decreased (P<0.001) ileal digestibility of DM, energy, and IDE. The supplementation of CM1 and CM2 linearly decreased (P<0.001) the retention of DM, nitrogen, and energy; ME, and MEn. By regressing the CM1 and CM2-associated IDE intake in kilocalories against kilograms of CM1 and CM2 intake, the IDE regression equation was Y=-10+1,429×CM1+2,125×CM2, r2=0.55, which indicates that IDE values were 1,429 kcal/kg of DM for CM1 and 2,125 kcal/kg of DM for CM2. The ME regression was Y=5+882×CM1+925×CM2, r2=0.54, which implies ME values of 882 kcal/kg of DM for CM1 and 925 kcal/kg of DM for CM2. MEn regression was Y=2+795×CM1+844×CM2, r2=0.52, which implies MEn values of 795 kcal/kg of DM for CM1 and 844 kcal/kg of DM for CM2. Based on these results, utilization of energy and nitrogen in camelina meal by broiler chickens is low and the high viscosity observed in jejunal digesta as well as the total glucosinolate in camelina meal may have contributed to the poor energy and nitrogen utilization. © 2015 Poultry Science Association Inc.

A service evaluation of on-line image-guided radiotherapy to lower extremity sarcoma: Investigating the workload implications of a 3 mm action level for image assessment and correction prior to delivery.

PubMed

Taylor, C; Parker, J; Stratford, J; Warren, M

2018-05-01

Although all systematic and random positional setup errors can be corrected for in entirety during on-line image-guided radiotherapy, the use of a specified action level, below which no correction occurs, is also an option. The following service evaluation aimed to investigate the use of this 3 mm action level for on-line image assessment and correction (online, systematic set-up error and weekly evaluation) for lower extremity sarcoma, and understand the impact on imaging frequency and patient positioning error within one cancer centre. All patients were immobilised using a thermoplastic shell attached to a plastic base and an individual moulded footrest. A retrospective analysis of 30 patients was performed. Patient setup and correctional data derived from cone beam CT analysis was retrieved. The timing, frequency and magnitude of corrections were evaluated. The population systematic and random error was derived. 20% of patients had no systematic corrections over the duration of treatment, and 47% had one. The maximum number of systematic corrections per course of radiotherapy was 4, which occurred for 2 patients. 34% of episodes occurred within the first 5 fractions. All patients had at least one observed translational error during their treatment greater than 0.3 cm, and 80% of patients had at least one observed translational error during their treatment greater than 0.5 cm. The population systematic error was 0.14 cm, 0.10 cm, 0.14 cm and random error was 0.27 cm, 0.22 cm, 0.23 cm in the lateral, caudocranial and anteroposterial directions. The required Planning Target Volume margin for the study population was 0.55 cm, 0.41 cm and 0.50 cm in the lateral, caudocranial and anteroposterial directions. The 3 mm action level for image assessment and correction prior to delivery reduced the imaging burden and focussed intervention on patients that exhibited greater positional variability. This strategy could be an efficient deployment of departmental resources if full daily correction of positional setup error is not possible. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Theoretical deposition of carcinogenic particle aggregates in the upper respiratory tract.

PubMed

Sturm, Robert

2013-10-01

Numerous particles suspended in the atmosphere are composed of smaller particular components that form aggregates with highly irregular shape. Such aggregates, among which dusts and soot are the most prominent examples, may be taken up into the respiratory tract and, in the worst case, initiate a malignant transformation of lung cells. Particle aggregates were theoretically modelled by using small spheres with equal diameters (1 nm) and arranging them randomly. This procedure resulted in the generation of various aggregate shapes (chain-like, loose, compact), for which essential parameters such as dynamic shape factors, χ, and aerodynamic diameters, dae , were computed. Deposition of aggregates consisting of 10, 50, 100, and 1,000 nano-spheres was simulated for the uppermost parts of the human respiratory system (extrathoracic region and airway generation 0 to 4), thereby distinguishing between sitting and light-work breathing as well as between nasal and oral inhalation. Based upon the modelling results, aggregate deposition in the human respiratory system can be described as a function of (I) aerodynamic diameter; (II) inhaled particle position within the airway system; and (III) breathing conditions. Therefore, highest deposition values were obtained for nano-scale aggregates (<10 nm), whereas larger aggregates exhibited slightly to significantly reduced deposition probabilities. Extrathoracic regions and uppermost bronchi (generations 0 to 1) were marked by most effective particle capture. Any increase of inhaled air volumes and reduction of breathing times resulted in an enhancement of deposition probabilities of larger particles. Based on the results derived from this study it may be concluded that small particle aggregates are accumulated in the uppermost compartments of the human respiratory tract, where they may unfold their unwholesome potential. In the case of carcinogenic particles being stored in epithelial cells for a longer time span, malignant transformations starting with the formation of cancerous cells and ending with the growth of a tumour have to be assumed.

Chlorine-36 and cesium-137 in ice-core samples from mid-latitude glacial sites in the Northern Hemisphere

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, J.R.; Cecil, L.D.; Synal, H.-A.; Kreutz, K.J.; Wake, C.P.; Naftz, D.L.; Frape, S.K.

2000-01-01

Chlorine-36 (36Cl) concentrations, 36Cl/Cl ratios, and 36Cl fluxes in ice-core samples collected from the Upper Fremont Glacier (UFG) in the Wind River Mountain Range, Wyoming, United States and the Nangpai Gosum Glacier (NGG) in the Himalayan Mountains, Nepal, were determined and compared with published results from the Dye-3 ice-core drilling site on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Cesium-137 (137Cs) concentrations in the NGG also were determined. The background fluxes for 36Cl for each glacial site were similar: (1.6??0.3)??10-2 atoms/cm2 s for the UFG samples, (0.7??0.1)??10-2 atoms/cm2 s for the NGG samples, and (0.4??0.1)??10-2 atoms/cm2 s for the Dye-3 samples. The 36Cl fluxes in ice that was deposited as snow during peak atmospheric nuclear weapon test (1957-1958) were (33??1)??10-2 atoms/cm2 s for the UFG site, (291??3)??10-2 atoms/cm2 s for the NGG site, and (124??5)??10-2 atoms/ cm2 s for the Dye-3 site. A weapon test period 137Cs concentration of 0.79??0.05 Bq/kg in the NGG ice core also was detected in the same section of ice that contained the largest 36Cl concentration. ?? 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Seismic anisotropy and mantle creep in young orogens

USGS Publications Warehouse

Meissner, R.; Mooney, W.D.; Artemieva, I.

2002-01-01

Seismic anisotropy provides evidence for the physical state and tectonic evolution of the lithosphere. We discuss the origin of anisotropy at various depths, and relate it to tectonic stress, geotherms and rheology. The anisotropy of the uppermost mantle is controlled by the orthorhombic mineral olivine, and may result from ductile deformation, dynamic recrystallization or annealing. Anisotropy beneath young orogens has been measured for the seismic phase Pn that propagates in the uppermost mantle. This anisotropy is interpreted as being caused by deformation during the most recent thermotectonic event, and thus provides information on the process of mountain building. Whereas tectonic stress and many structural features in the upper crust are usually orientated perpendicular to the structural axis of mountain belts, Pn anisotropy is aligned parallel to the structural axis. We interpret this to indicate mountain-parallel ductile (i.e. creeping) deformation in the uppermost mantle that is a consequence of mountain-perpendicular compressive stresses. The preferred orientation of the fast axes of some anisotropic minerals, such as olivine, is known to be in the creep direction, a consequence of the anisotropy of strength and viscosity of orientated minerals. In order to explain the anisotropy of the mantle beneath young orogens we extend the concept of crustal 'escape' (or 'extrusion') tectonics to the uppermost mantle. We present rheological model calculations to support this hypothesis. Mountain-perpendicular horizontal stress (determined in the upper crust) and mountain-parallel seismic anisotropy (in the uppermost mantle) require a zone of ductile decoupling in the middle or lower crust of young mountain belts. Examples for stress and mountain-parallel Pn anisotropy are given for Tibet, the Alpine chains, and young mountain ranges in the Americas. Finally, we suggest a simple model for initiating mountain parallel creep.

Hindered rotations probed by rare earths in crystals: Er3+ and Tm3+ in BaY2F8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baraldi, A.; Buffagni, E.; Capelletti, R.; Mazzera, M.; Magnani, N.; Carini, G., Jr.; D'Angelo, G.

2009-10-01

The sharpness of absorption lines induced by crystal-field (CF) transitions of rare earths (RE) can be exploited to disclose the rotational structure usually hidden under the more common broad electronic absorptions. In the present work the effectiveness of such an approach is proved by the analysis of the fine structure (FS) accompanying the Er3+ and Tm3+ CF lines in BaY2F8 single crystals. Sequences of weak, very narrow (0.03-0.1cm-1) , closely spaced (˜0.2-0.8cm-1) lines were monitored in high-resolution (as fine as 0.01cm-1 ), low-temperature (9 K) absorption spectra in the 2000-24000cm-1 range. The FS covers a few cm-1 on both sides of the narrowest among the RE-CF lines and is tightly associated with them, as proved by the amplitude dependence on the RE concentration (in the 0.5-20at.% range) and by linear dichroism measurements. The FS lines vanishing at temperatures as low as 40-60 K and the close spacing suggest that they may be ascribed to the simultaneous excitation of both RE-CF electronic transition and hindered rotation (or libration) mode of RE3+-F- group. The attribution is supported both by the specific structure of the host matrix which allows some F- mobility and by the very small line spacing which is in excellent agreement with the RE3+-F- rotational constant (2B=0.39cm-1) . Complementary specific-heat measurements in the temperature range 1.5-25 K show that Er3+ -doped samples display contributions, in addition to the vibrational one of a pure sample, which scale with the Er3+ concentration. The extra specific heat is interpreted in terms of Schottky anomalies; that peaking at ˜17K accounts for electronic transitions between the lowest sublevels of the I415/2 ground manifold, in agreement with the CF spectroscopy results while those occurring below 3.5 K are consistent with level pairs separated by 0.55 and 0.36cm-1 , in agreement with the FS line spacing.

The astrophysical consequences of intervening galaxy gas on fast radio bursts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prochaska, J. Xavier; Neeleman, Marcel

2018-02-01

We adopt and analyze results on the incidence and physical properties of damped Ly$\\alpha$ systems (DLAs) to predict the astrophysical impact of gas in galaxies on observations of Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs). Three DLA measures form the basis of this analysis: (i) the HI column density distribution, parameterized as a double power-law; (ii) the incidence of DLAs with redshift (derived here), $\\ell(z)=A+B \\arctan(z-C)$ with $A=0.236_{-0.021}^{+0.016}, B=0.168_{-0.017}^{+0.010}, C=2.87_{-0.13}^{+0.17}$ and (iii) the electron density, parameterized as a log-normal deviate with mean $10^{-2.6} cm^{-3}$ and dispersion 0.3dex. Synthesizing these results, we estimate that the average rest-frame dispersion measure from the neutral medium of a single, intersecting galaxy is DM$^{NM}_{DLA}=0.25$ pc/cm^3. Analysis of AlIII and CII* absorption limits the putative warm ionized medium to contribute DM$^{WIM}_{DLA}<20$pc/cm^3. Given the low incidence of DLAs, we find that a population of FRBs at z=2 will incur DM(z=2)=0.01 pc/cm^3 on average, with a 99% c.l. upper bound of 0.22 pc/cm^3. Assuming that turbulence of the ISM in external galaxies is qualitatively similar to our Galaxy, we estimate that the angular broadening of an FRB by intersecting galaxies is negligible ($\\theta<0.1$mas). The temporal broadening is also predicted to be small, $\\tau \\approx 0.3$ms for a z=1 galaxy intersecting a z=2 FRB for an observing frequency of $\

50 CFR 648.104 - Gear restrictions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... inches (46.99 cm) TL for all vessels that do not qualify for a moratorium permit under § 648.4(a)(3), and... measured by using a wedge-shaped gauge having a taper of 2 cm (0.79 inches) in 8 cm (3.15 inches), and a thickness of 2.3 mm (0.09 inches), inserted into the meshes under a pressure or pull of 5 kg (11.02 lb) for...

Effects of heat and moisture exchangers on minute ventilation, ventilatory drive, and work of breathing during pressure-support ventilation in acute respiratory failure.

PubMed

Pelosi, P; Solca, M; Ravagnan, I; Tubiolo, D; Ferrario, L; Gattinoni, L

1996-07-01

To evaluate the effect of two commonly used heat and moisture exchangers on respiratory function and gas exchange in patients with acute respiratory failure during pressure-support ventilation. Prospective, randomized trial. Intensive care unit of a university hospital. Fourteen patients with moderate acute respiratory failure, receiving pressure-support ventilation. Patients were assigned randomly to two treatment groups, in which two different heat and moisture exchangers were used: Hygroster (DAR S.p.A., Mirandola, Italy) with higher deadspace and lower resistance (group 1, n = 7), and Hygrobac-S (DAR S.p.A.) with lower deadspace and higher resistance (group 2, n = 7). Patients were assessed at three pressure-support levels: a) baseline (10.3 +/- 2.4 cm H2O for group 1, 9.3 +/- 1.3 cm H2O for group 2); b) 5 cm H2O above baseline; and c) 5 cm H2O below baseline. Measurements obtained with the heat and moisture exchangers were compared with those values obtained using the standard heated hot water humidifier. At baseline pressure-support ventilation, the insertion of both heat and moisture exchangers induced in all patients a significant increase in the following parameters: minute ventilation (12.4 +/- 3.2 to 15.0 +/- 2.6 L/min for group 1, and 11.8 +/- 3.6 to 14.2 +/- 3.5 L/min for group 2); static intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure (2.9 +/- 2.0 to 5.1 +/- 3.2 cm H2O for group 1, and 2.9 +/- 1.7 to 5.5 +/- 3.0 cm H2O for group 2); ventilatory drive, expressed as P41 (2.7 +/- 2.0 to 5.2 +/- 4.0 cm H2O for group 1, and 3.3 +/- 2.0 to 5.3 +/- 3.0 cm H2O for group 2); and work of breathing, expressed as either power (8.8 +/- 9.4 to 14.5 +/- 10.3 joule/ min for group 1, and 10.5 +/- 7.4 to 16.6 +/- 11.0 joule/min for group 2) or work per liter of ventilation (0.6 +/- 0.6 to 1.0 +/- 0.7 joule/L for group 1, and 0.8 +/- 0.4 to 1.1 +/- 0.5 joule/L. for group 2). These increases also occurred when pressure-support ventilation was both above and below the baseline level, although at high pressure support the increase in work of breathing with heat and moisture exchangers was less evident. Gas exchange was unaffected by heat and moisture exchangers, as minute ventilation increased to compensate for the higher deadspace produced in the circuit by the insertion of heat and moisture exchangers. The tested heat and moisture exchangers should be used carefully in patients with acute respiratory failure during pressure-support ventilation, since these devices substantially increase minute ventilation, ventilatory drive, and work of breathing. However, an increase in pressure-support ventilation (5 to 10 cm H2O) may compensate for the increased work of breathing.

Superemission in vertically-aligned single-wall carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khmelinskii, Igor; Makarov, Vladimir

2016-09-01

Presently we used two samples of vertically aligned single-wall carbon nanotubes (VA SWCNTs) with parallelepiped geometry, sized 0.02 cm × 0.2 cm × 1.0 cm and 0.2 cm × 0.2 cm × 1.0 cm. We report absorption and emission properties of the VA SWCNTs, including strong anisotropy in both their absorption and emission spectra. We found that the emission spectra extend from the middle-IR range to the near-IR range, with such extended spectra being reported for the first time. Pumping the VA SWCNTs in the direction normal to their axis, superemission (SE) was observed in the direction along their axis. The SE band maximum is located at 7206 ± 0.4 cm-1. The energy and the power density of the superemission were estimated, along with the diffraction-limited divergence. At the pumping energy of 3 mJ/pulse, the SE energy measured by the detector was 0.74 mJ/pulse, corresponding to the total SE energy of 1.48 mJ/pulse, with the energy density of 18.5 mJ cm-2/pulse and the SE power density of 1.2 × 105 W cm-2/pulse. We report that a bundle of VA SWCNTs is an emitter with a relatively small divergence, not exceeding 3.9 × 10-3 rad. We developed a theoretical approach to explain such absorption and emission spectra. The developed theory is based on the earlier proposed SSH theory, which we extended to include the exchange interactions between the closest SWCNT neighbors. The developed theoretical ideas were implemented in a homemade FORTRAN code. This code was successfully used to calculate and reproduce the experimental spectra and to determine the SWCNT species that originate the respective absorption bands, with acceptable agreement between theory and experiment.

49 CFR 572.11 - Test conditions and instrumentation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... adapter is horizontal. (3) The shoulder yokes are adjusted so that they are at the midpoint of their... surfaces of the shoulders and buttocks are tangent to a transverse vertical plane. (5) The upper legs are... surface to the uppermost point on the head-skin surface. (6) Shoulder pivot height is measured from the...

49 CFR 572.11 - Test conditions and instrumentation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... adapter is horizontal. (3) The shoulder yokes are adjusted so that they are at the midpoint of their... surfaces of the shoulders and buttocks are tangent to a transverse vertical plane. (5) The upper legs are... surface to the uppermost point on the head-skin surface. (6) Shoulder pivot height is measured from the...

49 CFR 572.11 - Test conditions and instrumentation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... adapter is horizontal. (3) The shoulder yokes are adjusted so that they are at the midpoint of their... surfaces of the shoulders and buttocks are tangent to a transverse vertical plane. (5) The upper legs are... surface to the uppermost point on the head-skin surface. (6) Shoulder pivot height is measured from the...

49 CFR 572.11 - Test conditions and instrumentation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... adapter is horizontal. (3) The shoulder yokes are adjusted so that they are at the midpoint of their... surfaces of the shoulders and buttocks are tangent to a transverse vertical plane. (5) The upper legs are... surface to the uppermost point on the head-skin surface. (6) Shoulder pivot height is measured from the...

46 CFR 111.101-3 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... (e) Each motor controller must be above the uppermost continuous deck. There must be a master switch at the controller and a master switch at the motor. The master switch at the motor must be disconnected from the circuit when the motor is started or stopped from the master switch at the controller. (f...

30 CFR 250.514 - Well-control fluids, equipment, and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... uppermost BOP; (2) A well-control, fluid-volume measuring device for determining fluid volumes when filling the hole on trips; and (3) A recording mud-pit-level indicator to determine mud-pit-volume gains and... the hole with drill pipe, the annulus shall be filled with well-control fluid before the change in...

Prediction of the energy required for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy of certain stones composition using simple radiology and computerized axial tomography.

PubMed

Argüelles-Salido, E; Campoy-Martínez, P; Aguilar-García, J; Podio-Lora, V; Medina-López, R

2014-03-01

To demonstrate that urinary lithiasis have a specific susceptibility to fracture through extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), which is common for all calculi with the same composition and which can be estimated before treatment using CT or plain x-ray. We present an in vitro, prospective, randomized, blind and multi-centre study involving 308 urinary calculi. 193 of these met the inclusion criteria: whole calculi composed purely of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), uric acid (UA) or carbonate apatite (CA), or a mix of oxalate (COMix) and of a size greater than 0.5 cm. The samples were broken using lithotripsy until reaching a pre-established level of comminution. The variables employed were energy dose (Edose) per cm(3) of lithiasis and Edose adjusted to lithiasic surface (EdAJ) per cm(3). COM was the hardest, requiring an Edose of 119,624 mJ/cm(3) and an EdAJ of 36,983 mJ/cm(3), followed by COMix (75,501/36,983), CA (22,734/21,186) and UA (22,580/6,837) (P < .05). Gmax y Gmda were correlated with Edose (r = 0.434/r = 0.420) and EdAJ (r = 0.599/r = 0.545) (P < .01). UH were correlated, in bone window and soft tissue window, with Edose/cm(3) (r = 0.478/r = 0.539) y EdAJ/cm(3) (r = 0.745/r = 0.758) (P < .01). In our in vitro research lithiasis require, due to the specific nature of their composition, a given amount of energy in order to be broken by ESWL, which is inherent to all those sharing the same composition, and can be predicted using CT or plain x-ray. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

16 CFR 500.19 - Conversion of SI metric quantities to inch/pound quantities and inch/pound quantities to SI...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... centimeter=0.393 701 in. 1 yard=0.9144m* 1 meter=3.280 84 ft. Area 1 square inch=6.4516 cm2* 1 square centimeter=0.155 000 in2. 1 square foot=929.0304 cm2* 1 square decimeter=0.107 639 ft2. =9.290 304 dm2 1 square meter=10.763 9 ft2. 1 square yard=0.836 127 m2 Volume or Capacity 1 cubic inch=16.3871 cm3 1 cubic...

16 CFR 500.19 - Conversion of SI metric quantities to inch/pound quantities and inch/pound quantities to SI...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... centimeter=0.393 701 in. 1 yard=0.9144m* 1 meter=3.280 84 ft. Area 1 square inch=6.4516 cm2* 1 square centimeter=0.155 000 in2. 1 square foot=929.0304 cm2* 1 square decimeter=0.107 639 ft2. =9.290 304 dm2 1 square meter=10.763 9 ft2. 1 square yard=0.836 127 m2 Volume or Capacity 1 cubic inch=16.3871 cm3 1 cubic...

16 CFR 500.19 - Conversion of SI metric quantities to inch/pound quantities and inch/pound quantities to SI...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... centimeter=0.393 701 in. 1 yard=0.9144m* 1 meter=3.280 84 ft. Area 1 square inch=6.4516 cm2* 1 square centimeter=0.155 000 in2. 1 square foot=929.0304 cm2* 1 square decimeter=0.107 639 ft2. =9.290 304 dm2 1 square meter=10.763 9 ft2. 1 square yard=0.836 127 m2 Volume or Capacity 1 cubic inch=16.3871 cm3 1 cubic...

16 CFR 500.19 - Conversion of SI metric quantities to inch/pound quantities and inch/pound quantities to SI...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... centimeter=0.393 701 in. 1 yard=0.9144m* 1 meter=3.280 84 ft. Area 1 square inch=6.4516 cm2* 1 square centimeter=0.155 000 in2. 1 square foot=929.0304 cm2* 1 square decimeter=0.107 639 ft2. =9.290 304 dm2 1 square meter=10.763 9 ft2. 1 square yard=0.836 127 m2 Volume or Capacity 1 cubic inch=16.3871 cm3 1 cubic...

Accuracy of Jump-Mat Systems for Measuring Jump Height.

PubMed

Pueo, Basilio; Lipinska, Patrycja; Jiménez-Olmedo, José M; Zmijewski, Piotr; Hopkins, Will G

2017-08-01

Vertical-jump tests are commonly used to evaluate lower-limb power of athletes and nonathletes. Several types of equipment are available for this purpose. To compare the error of measurement of 2 jump-mat systems (Chronojump-Boscosystem and Globus Ergo Tester) with that of a motion-capture system as a criterion and to determine the modifying effect of foot length on jump height. Thirty-one young adult men alternated 4 countermovement jumps with 4 squat jumps. Mean jump height and standard deviations representing technical error of measurement arising from each device and variability arising from the subjects themselves were estimated with a novel mixed model and evaluated via standardization and magnitude-based inference. The jump-mat systems produced nearly identical measures of jump height (differences in means and in technical errors of measurement ≤1 mm). Countermovement and squat-jump height were both 13.6 cm higher with motion capture (90% confidence limits ±0.3 cm), but this very large difference was reduced to small unclear differences when adjusted to a foot length of zero. Variability in countermovement and squat-jump height arising from the subjects was small (1.1 and 1.5 cm, respectively, 90% confidence limits ±0.3 cm); technical error of motion capture was similar in magnitude (1.7 and 1.6 cm, ±0.3 and ±0.4 cm), and that of the jump mats was similar or smaller (1.2 and 0.3 cm, ±0.5 and ±0.9 cm). The jump-mat systems provide trustworthy measurements for monitoring changes in jump height. Foot length can explain the substantially higher jump height observed with motion capture.

[The relationship between accommodative accuracy at different near-work distances and early-onset myopia].

PubMed

Yu, Q W; Zhang, P; Zhou, S B; Hu, Y; Ji, M X; Luo, Y C; You, H L; Yao, Z X

2016-07-01

To observe the accommodative accuracy of children with early-onset myopia at different near-work distances, and discuss the relationship between accommodative accuracy and early-onset myopia. This was a case-control study. Thirty-seven emmetropic children, 41 early-onset myopic children without correction, and 39 early-onset myopic children with spectacles, aged 7 to 13 years, were included. Measures of refractive errors and accommodative accuracy at four near-work distances, including 50 cm, 40 cm, 30 cm, and 20 cm, were made using the binocular fusion cross cylinder (FCC) of an automatic phoropter. Most candidates showed accommodative lags, including the children with emmetropia. The ratio of lags in all candidates at different near-work distances was 75.21% (50 cm), 87.18% (40 cm), 92.31% (30 cm), and 98.29% (20 cm), respectively. All accommodative accuracies became worse, and the accommodative lag ratio and values of FCC increased, along with the shortening of the distance. The difference in accommodative accuracy among groups was statistically significant at 30 cm (χ(2)=7.852, P= 0.020) and 20 cm (χ(2)=6.480, P=0.039). The values of FCC among groups were significantly different at 30 cm (F=3.626, P=0.030) and 20 cm (F=3.703, P=0.028), but not at 50 cm and 40 cm (P>0.05). In addition, the FCC values of 30 cm and 20 cm had a statistically significant difference between myopic children without correction [(1.25±0.44) D and (1.76±0.43) D] and emmetropic children [(0.95±0.52) D and (1.41±0.58) D] (P=0.012, 0.008). The correlation between diopters of myopia and accommodative accuracy at different nearwork distances was not statistically significant (P>0.05). However, the correlation between diopters of myopia and the accommodative lag value (FCC) at 20 cm was statistically significant (r=0.246, P=0.028). The closer the near-work distance is, the worse the accommodative accuracy is. This is more significant in early-onset myopia, especially myopia without correction, than emmetropia. Wearing spectacles may improve the threshold and sensitivity of accommodations, and the accommodative accuracy at near-work distances (<30 cm) to some extent. The poor accommodative accuracy at near-work distances may be not related to early-onset myopia, but the value of FCC (20 cm) is related to early-onset myopia. The higher the FCC value is, the higher the diopter is. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 520-524).

Experimental Verification of Material Flammability in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivanov, A. V.; Balashov, Y. V.; Andreeva, T. V.; Melikhov, A. S.

1999-01-01

The flammability in microgravity of three US-furnished materials, Delrin, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and high-density polyethylene, was determined using a Russian-developed combustion tunnel on Mir. Four 4.5-mm-diameter cylindrical samples of each plastic were ignited under concurrent airflow (in the direction of flame spread) with velocities from no flow to 8.5 cm/s. The test results identify a limiting air-flow velocity V(sub lim) for each material, below which combustion ceases. Nominal values are V(sub lim) < 0.3 cm/s for Delrin, 0.5 cm/s for PMMA, and 0.3 to 0.5 cm/s for polyethylene. These values are lower than those obtained in prior ground testing. Nevertheless, they demonstrate that flow shutoff is effective for extinguishment in the microgravity environment of spacecraft. Microgravity test results also show that the plastic materials maintain a stable melt ball within the spreading flame zone. In general, as the concurrent flow velocity V decreases, the flame-spread rate V(sub F) decreases, from an average (for all three materials) of V(sub F)= 0.5-0.75 mm/s at V = 8.5 cm/s to V(sub F)= 0.05-0.01 mm/s at V = 0.3-0.5 cm/s. Also, as V decreases, the flames become less visible but expand, increasing the probability of igniting an adjacent surface.

Conformational analysis and global warming potentials of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol from absorption spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godin, Paul J.; Le Bris, Karine; Strong, Kimberly

2017-12-01

Absorption cross-sections of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP) were derived from Fourier transform infrared spectra recorded from 530 to 3400 cm-1 with a resolution of 0.1 cm-1 over a temperature range of 300-362 K. These results were compared to previously published experimental measurements made at room temperature and to a theoretical spectrum from density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Good agreement is found between the experimentally derived results, DFT calculations, and previously published data. The only temperature dependence observed was in the amplitude of some of the absorption peaks due to the changing ratio of the stable conformations of HFIP. This temperature dependence does not result in a significant trend in integrated band strength as a function of temperature. The average value for integrated band strength is found to be (2.649 ± 0.065)x10-16 cm molecule-1 for HFIP over the spectral range of 595 to 3010 cm-1. Radiative efficiency (RE) and the global warming potential (GWP) for HFIP were also derived. A RE of 0.293 ± 0.059 Wm-2ppbv-1 is derived, which leads to a GWP100 of 188 in the range of 530 to 3000 cm-1. The DFT calculation is linearly adjusted to match the experimental spectrum. Using this adjusted DFT spectrum to expand the range below 530 to 0 cm-1 , increases the RE to 0.317 ± 0.063 Wm-2ppbv-1 and the GWP100 to 203.

Ultralow-voltage-drop GaN/InGaN/GaN tunnel junctions with 12% indium content

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akyol, Fatih; Zhang, Yuewei; Krishnamoorthy, Sriram; Rajan, Siddharth

2017-12-01

We report a combination of highly doped layers and polarization engineering that achieves highly efficient blue-transparent GaN/InGaN/GaN tunnel junctions (In content = 12%). NPN diode structures with a low voltage drop of 4.04 V at 5 kA/cm2 and a differential resistance of 6.51 × 10-5 Ω·cm2 at 3 kA/cm2 were obtained. The tunnel junction design with n++-GaN (Si: 5 × 1020 cm-3)/3 nm p++-In0.12Ga0.88N (Mg: 1.5 × 1020 cm-3)/p++-GaN (Mg: 5 × 1020 cm-3) showed the best device performance. Device simulations agree well with the experimentally determined optimal design. The combination of low In composition and high doping can facilitate lower tunneling resistance for blue-transparent light-emitting diodes.

Is there evidence for Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary-age deep-water deposits in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keller, G.; MacLeod, N.; Lyons, J. B.; Officer, C. B.

1993-09-01

Over most of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean a hiatus is present between the lower upper Maastrichtian and lowermost Tertiary deposits; sedimentation resumed ˜200 ka (upper zone Pla) after the K-T boundary. Current-bedded volcaniclastic sedimentary rocks at Deep Sea Drilling Project (DSDP) Sites 536 and 540, which were previously interpreted as impact-generated megawave deposits of K-T boundary age, are biostratigraphically of pre-K-T boundary age and probably represent turbidite or gravity-How deposits. The top 10 to 20 cm of this deposit at Site 536 contains very rare Micula prinsii, the uppermost Maastrichtian index taxon, as well as low values of Ir (0.6 pbb) and rare Ni-rich spinels. These indicate possible reworking of sediments of K-T boundary age at the hiatus. Absence of continuous sediment accumulation across the K-T boundary in the 16 Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean sections examined prevents their providing evidence of impact-generated megawave deposits in this region. Our study indicates that the most complete trans-K-T stratigraphic records may be found in onshore marine sections of Mexico, Cuba, and Haiti. The stratigraphic records of these areas should be investigated further for evidence of impact deposits.

Heavy metal pollution in farmland irrigated with river water near a steel plant—magnetic and geochemical signature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chunxia; Appel, Erwin; Qiao, Qingqing

2013-03-01

The presence of heavy metals (HMs) in the environment is a major threat for humans. Magnetic proxies provide a rapid method for assessing the degree of HM pollution in environment. We have studied farmland soil irrigated with polluted river water in the vicinity of a steel plant in Loudi city (Hunan Province, China) to test the efficiency of magnetic methods for detecting the degree of HM pollution. Both magnetic and non-magnetic (microscopic, chemical and statistical) methods were used to characterize these farmland soils. Enhanced magnetic concentration values were found in the upper arable soil horizon (0-20 cm), which is related to the presence of spherical ˜10 to 30 μm sized magnetite particles. The spatial distribution of magnetic concentration and HM contents in the farmland soils matches with the spatial pattern of these parameters in river sediments. These findings provide evidence that HM pollution of the farmland soil is mainly caused by irrigation with wastewater. HMs Zn, Pb, Cu, Cd, Co, Ni, V are well correlate with magnetic susceptibility (χ). The pollution load index (PLI) of all nine anthropogenic HMs (including also Cr and Mo) and log10(χ) are significantly correlated. Using the resulting linear PLI-log10(χ) function, values of χ can serve as a convenient tool for semi-quantifying the degree of HM pollution in the uppermost ˜20 cm of the studied farmland soils. These findings suggest that magnetic methods can generally serve as a convenient tool for detecting and mapping HM pollution in farmland soil irrigated with wastewater from sites nearby heavy industrial activities.

Paleoceanographic history of the Lower Bengal Fan during the last glacial cycle - IODP Expedition 354

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dekens, P. S.; Weber, M. E.; Lantzsch, H.; Das, S. K.; Williams, T.; Adhikari, R. R.; Jia, G.; Fox, L. R.; Ge, J.; Manoj, M. C.; Savian, J. F.; Reilly, B. T.; Selkin, P. A.; Meynadier, L.; Spiess, V.; France-Lanord, C.; Sharma, B.

2015-12-01

IODP Expedition 354 drilled a ~320 km long transect of seven sites on the Lower Bengal Fan at 8o N in the Northern Indian Ocean. The sediments cores recovered record a complex relationship between turbiditic and hemipelagic environments. This variability offers a unique opportunity to link our understanding of tectonic and terrestrial processes with climate and oceanography. With the exception the westernmost Site U1454, all sites show a several meter thick, hemipelagic top layer, usually representing Late Quaternary sediment. We present physical, geochemical and stable isotopic properties of this interval to establish a time frame and assess the paleoceanographic development of the region during the last glacial cycle. We sampled Site U1452C-1H continuously for the uppermost 480 cm of hemipelagic sediment in 2-cm increments. Preliminary results indicate the Toba Ash 1 (0.74 ka) is a distinct time marker in all physical properties. Furthermore, wet-bulk density as well as color reflectance b* (the red-green component) and L* (the lightness) show a dominant precession cyclicity. Hence, we are able to provide an insolation-tuned chronology for the last 200 ka (MIS1 - 7) as a preliminary age model. These records agree well with d18O records retrieved from Chinese caves. We will present a preliminary paleoceanographic proxy data to reconstruct sea-surface temperature (SST), sea-surface salinity (SSS), ice volume, marine biological productivity, nutrient supply, and deep-water circulation. These oceanographic and climate conditions are linked to changes in monsoonal strength and terrestrial input using sedimentary proxies to reconstruct chemical weathering and sediment sources and transport time. This work addresses one of the primary cruise objectives - linking monsoon variability, regional and global climate, and Bay of Bengal sediment deposition.

Training Effects of the FIFA 11+ Kids on Physical Performance in Youth Football Players: A Randomized Control Trial.

PubMed

Pomares-Noguera, Carlos; Ayala, Francisco; Robles-Palazón, Francisco Javier; Alomoto-Burneo, Juan F; López-Valenciano, Alejandro; Elvira, José L L; Hernández-Sánchez, Sergio; De Ste Croix, Mark

2018-01-01

To analyze the training effects of the FIFA 11+ kids on several parameters of physical performance in male youth football players. Twenty-three youth players were randomized within each team into two groups (control vs. intervention). The intervention group performed the FIFA 11+ kids programme 2 times a week for 4 weeks; the control groups completed their normal warm-up routines. Thirteen physical performance measures {range of motion (hip, knee, and ankle joints), dynamic postural control (measured throughout the Y balance test), 20 m sprint time, slalom dribble with a ball, agility, vertical jumping height [counter movement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ)], horizontal jump distance, accuracy when volleying a ball [measured throughout the Wall Volley test]} were assessed. All physical performance parameters were compared via magnitude-based inference analysis. Significant between-group differences in favor of the FIFA 11+ players were found for dynamic postural control {anterior [mean and 90% confidence intervals (CI) = 1 cm, from -1.6 to 3.5 cm] and posteromedial (mean and 90% CI = 5.1 cm, from -1.8 to 12 cm) and posterolateral (mean and 90% CI = 4.8 cm, from 0.6 to 9.0 cm) distances}, agility run (mean and 90% CI = 0.5 s, from -0.9 to 0 s), vertical jump height [CMJ (mean and 90% CI = 3.1 cm, from 0.2 to 6.1 cm) and DJ (mean and 90% CI = 1.7 cm, from -0.5 to 3.9 cm)], and horizontal jump distance (mean and 90% CI = 2.5 cm, from -8 to 15 cm). The control groups showed better performance in 20 m sprint time (mean and 90% CI = -0.05 s, from -0.11 to 0.07) and wall volley tests (mean and 90% CI = 0.2, from -0.2 to 0.6) compared to the intervention group. The main findings of this study suggest that just 4 weeks of implementation of the FIFA 11+ kids produces improved physical performance compared with traditional warm-up routines in youth soccer players.

Insulation disks on the skin to estimate muscle temperature.

PubMed

Brajkovic, Dragan; Ducharme, Michel B; Webb, Paul; Reardon, Frank D; Kenny, Glen P

2006-08-01

This study examined the use of insulation disks placed on the skin to estimate muscle temperature in resting subjects exposed to a thermoneutral (28 degrees C) ambient environment. The working hypothesis was that the skin temperature under each insulation disk would increase to a value corresponding to a specific muscle temperature measured by a control probe at 0.8+/-0.2, 1.3+/-0.2, 1.8+/-0.2, 2.3+/-0.2, and 2.8+/-0.2 cm below the skin surface. Eight subjects sat for 120 min while lateral thigh skin temperatures and vastus lateralis muscle temperature were directly measured. Vastus lateralis temperature was estimated non-invasively using two 5 cm diameter foam neoprene disks which were placed on top of the skin temperature probes (from time 60 to 120 min) located at 15.3 and 26.3 cm superior to the patella. The disks at the two locations were 3.2 and 4.8 mm thick, respectively. The placement of the 3.2- and 4.8-mm disks on the thigh for a minimum of 15 and 20 min, respectively, resulted in an increase in skin temperature under the disks which corresponded to the lateral thigh muscle temperature measured directly and invasively at 0.8+/-0.2 and 1.3+/-0.2 cm, respectively, below the skin.

Clinical Features of Ground Glass Opacity-Dominant Lung Cancer Exceeding 3.0 cm in the Whole Tumor Size.

PubMed

Suzuki, Shigeki; Sakurai, Hiroyuki; Yotsukura, Masaya; Masai, Kyohei; Asakura, Keisuke; Nakagawa, Kazuo; Motoi, Noriko; Watanabe, Shun-Ichi

2018-05-01

Ground glass opacity (GGO)-dominant lung adenocarcinoma sized 3.0 cm or less in the whole tumor size is widely known to have an excellent prognosis and is regarded as early lung cancer. However, the characteristics and prognosis of lung cancer showing GGO exceeding 3.0 cm remains unclear. From 2002 through 2012, we reviewed 3,735 lung cancers that underwent complete resection at our institution. We identified 160 lung cancers (4.3%) showing GGO exceeding 3.0 cm on thin-section computed tomography and divided them into three types by the consolidation/tumor ratio (CTR) using cutoff values of 0.25 and 0.5. We compared the characteristics and prognosis among these types. Type A (CTR, 0 to ≤0.25), type B (CTR, >0.25 to ≤0.5), and type C (CTR, >0.5 to <1.0) were found in 16 (10%), 37 (23%), and 107 lesions (67%), respectively. No lymph node metastasis was found in types A and B. Recurrence was not observed in types A and B. The 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival rates were both 100% in type A, both 97.2% in type B, and 88.4% and 66.7% in type C, respectively. Patients with type C had a significantly worse prognosis than those with the other types with respect to overall survival and disease-free survival. A patient with GGO-dominant lung cancer exceeding 3.0 cm can be considered to be in a group of patients with nodal-negative disease and an excellent prognosis. Copyright © 2018 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electronic absorption spectra of chromium-bearing sapphirine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langer, K.; Platonov, A. N.; Matsuk, S. S.; Andrut, M.

1994-05-01

Violet, non-pleochroic and greenish-blue, pleochroic chromium-substituted sapphirines were found in corundum-bearing spinel-websterite xenolites from the Yakutian kimberlite pipes Noyabrskaya (N) and Sludyanka (Sl), respectively. The crystallochemical formulae of sapphirine crystals from such xenolites were determined by EMP to be (Mg3.40Fe0.23Al3.25Cr0.16)[6] Al{1.00/[6]}[O2/Al4.53Si1.47O18] (N) and (Mg2.53Fe0.55 Mn0.04Ti{0.03/4+}Al3.55Cr{0.08/3+})[6]Al{1.00/[16]}[O2/Al4.28Si1.73O18] (Sl). Single crystal spectra in the range 35000 6000 cm1- showed a slightly polarization dependent absorption edge near 3200 cm1- (N) or 30000 cm1- (Sl) and unpolarized bands at 25300 and 17300 cm1-, typical of spin-allowed transitions, derived from 4A2g→4T1g and 4A2g→4T2g, of Cr3+ in octahedral sites, with point symmetry C1, of the structure. Another weak band at 23000 cm-1 in the sapphirine-N spectra is attributed to low symmetry splitting of the excited 4T1 (F)-State of Cr3+. These assignments lead to crystal field parameters Dq=1730cm-1 and B= 685cm-1 of Cr3+ in sapphirine. Crystallochemical and spectroscopic arguments suggest that Cr3+ subsitutes for Al in the M(1) or M(8) sites of the sapphirine structure. In addition to Cr3+-transitions, spectra of Sl exhibit weak dd-bands of Fe2+ at 10000 and 7700 cm1-, which are unpolarized in consistency with the C1 site symmetry of the octahedra in the structure. Spectra of Sl show also prominent, broad bands (Δv1/2˜-5000 cm1-) at 15000 and 11000 cm1-, which occur in E//Y(//b) and E//Z(//c=12°) only and exhibit an intensity ratio αY∶αz close to 1∶3. This result, the large half width, as well as band energy — MM distance considerations suggest that these bands originate from Fe2+[6]-Fe3+[6] charge-transfer transitions in wall octahedra M(1)M(2), M(6)M(7) etc., forming MM vectors of 30° with the c-axis. The lack of Fe2+-Fe3+ charge-transfer bands in sapphirine N might indicate a lower oxygen fugacity during the formation of the websterite from the Noyabrskaya pipe compared to that from the Sludyanka pipe.

Evaluation of right ventricular function in early period following transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect.

PubMed

Ağaç, Mustafa Tarık; Akyüz, Ali Rıza; Acar, Zeydin; Akdemir, Ramazan; Korkmaz, Levent; Kırış, Abdülkadir; Erkuş, Emre; Erkan, Hakan; Celik, Sükrü

2012-03-01

There is limited data on alterations in novel right ventricular (RV) function indices like tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and tricuspid annular systolic velocity (TASV) after transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure. We aimed to evaluate RV function by echocardiography (ECG) with these novel indices in early period in patients with secundum-type ASD that was closed percutaneously. Patients were enrolled to study if they had secundum-type ASD that was suitable for percutaneous closure. Patient population consisted of 4 men and 16 women. Echocardiography was performed before and 1 month after closure. Mean age was 37 ± 16. Mean diameter of ASD and total atrial septum length measured by ECG were 19 ± 6 mm and 49 ± 7 mm, respectively. Mean diameter of defect in transesophageal echocardiography was 20 ± 6 mm. Stretched mean diameter in catheterization was 23 ± 6 mm. One month after closure, there were statistically significant decreases in RV end-diastolic diameters (43.3 ± 10.7 mm vs. 34.9 ± 5.5 mm; P < 0.001), RV/left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter ratio (1.1 ± 0.3 vs. 0.87 ± 0.1; P < 0.001), TASV (16.9 ± 3.2 cm/sec vs. 14.3 ± 3.3 cm/sec; P < 0.05), early diastolic tricuspid annular velocity (15.3 ± 3.1 cm/sec vs. 13.4 ± 2.4 cm/sec P <0.05), late diastolic tricuspid annular velocity (16.2 ± 5.4 cm/sec vs. 14.3 ± 6.3 cm/sec; P < 0.05), and TAPSE (29.9 ± 6.2 mm vs. 22.4 ± 7.4 mm; P < 0.001). LV end-diastolic diameter (38.0 ± 6.9 mm and 40.0 ± 4.5 P < 0.05) was increased, whereas there was no change in LV ejection fraction. Closure of ASD by using Amplatzer devices led to decrease in right heart chamber size, tissue Doppler-derived tricuspid annular velocities and TAPSE in early period. © 2011, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Infrared spectroscopic study of CaFe0.7Co0.3O3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, C. X.; Xia, H. L.; Dai, Y. M.; Qiu, Z. Y.; Sui, Q. T.; Long, Y. W.; Qiu, X. G.

2017-08-01

Temperature-dependent infrared spectroscopy has been investigated for CaFe0.7Co0.3O3 which undergoes a ferromagnetic transition at TC≈177 K . It is observed that the spectral weight is transferred from ˜4800 -14 000 cm-1 to ˜0 -4800 cm-1 as the temperature is lowered around TC. Such a large-range spectral weight transfer is attributed to the Hund's interaction. The phonons in CaFe0.7Co0.3O3 show minor asymmetric line shapes, implying relatively weak electron-phonon coupling compared with the parent compound CaFeO3. The optical conductivity also reveals a broad peak structure in the range of ˜700 -1500 cm-1. Fit by the model of single-polaron absorption, the broad peak is interpreted by the excitation of polarons. From the fitting parameters of the polaron peak, we estimate the electron-phonon coupling constant α ˜ 0.4 -0.5 , implying that CaFe0.7Co0.3O3 falls into the weak-coupling regime.

Atlas of absorption lines from 0 to 17 900 cm(-1)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Park, J. H.; Rothman, L. S.; Rinsland, C. P.; Smith, M. A. H.; Richardson, D. J.; Larsen, J. C.

1981-01-01

Plots of absorption line strength versus line position for wavenumbers from 0 to 17,900 cm(-1) are shown for 20 atmospheric gases (H2O, CO2, O3, N2O, CO, CH4, O2, NO, SO2, NO2, NH3, HNO3, OH, HF, HCl, HBr, HI, ClO, OCS, H2CO). Also shown are similar plots of lower-state energy values for adsorption lines for the strongly adsorbing atmospheric gases (H2O, CO2, O3, and CH4) for wavenumbers from 0 to 5000 cm(-1).

Theoretical Modeling of the Interior Ballistics of the Electrothermal Gun

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-07-01

latter one 19 Table 2.1 Parameters Used for Nominal Data Base (after Oberle [2]). Chamber Volume 97.108 cm 3 Projectile Travel 145 cm Bore Diameter 14...at the time when the plasma supply is completed. When this occurs in the case of instantaneous mixing one has the projectile travel reduced by... Travel 400.0 cm Bore Diameter 4.0 cm Projectile Hass 160 g Plasma Energy 2000000 J Plasma Mass 0.0 g Working Fluid 420 g of H20 Density I g/cm. Bulk

Intermittent But Not Continuous Static Stretching Improves Subsequent Vertical Jump Performance In Flexibility-Trained Athletes.

PubMed

Bogdanis, Gregory C; Donti, Olyvia; Tsolakis, Charilaos; Smilios, Ilias; Bishop, David J

2017-02-23

This study examined changes in countermovement jump (CMJ) height after an intermittent or a continuous static stretching protocol of equal total duration. Sixteen male, elite-level gymnasts performed 90 s of intermittent (3 x 30 s with 30 s rest) or continuous stretching (90 s) of the quadriceps muscle. A single-leg stretching and jumping design was used, with the contra-lateral limb serving as a control. The same individuals performed both conditions with alternate legs in a randomized, counterbalanced order. One leg CMJ height was measured for the stretched and the control leg after warm-up, immediately after stretching, and at regular intervals for 10 min after stretching. Range of motion (ROM) of the hip and knee joints was measured before, after, and 10 min post-stretching. Compared to the control leg, intermittent stretching increased CMJ height by 8.1±2.0%, 4 min into recovery (+2.2±2.0 cm, 95%CI: 1.0-3.4 cm, p=0.001), while continuous stretching decreased CMJ height by 17.5±3.3% immediately after (-2.9±1.7 cm, 95%CI: -2.0 to -3.7 cm, p=0.001) and by 12.0±2.7% one min after stretching (-2.2±2.1 cm, 95%CI: -1.2 to -3.2 cm, p=0.001). The increases in hip (2.9 and 3.6, p=0.001. d=2.4) and knee joint ROM (5.1 and 6.1, p=0.001. d=0.85) after the intermittent and continuous stretching protocols were not different. The opposite effects of intermittent vs. continuous stretching on subsequent CMJ performance suggests that stretching mode is an important variable when examining the acute effects of static stretching on performance in flexibility-trained athletes.

The reliability of three devices used for measuring vertical jump height.

PubMed

Nuzzo, James L; Anning, Jonathan H; Scharfenberg, Jessica M

2011-09-01

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the intrasession and intersession reliability of the Vertec, Just Jump System, and Myotest for measuring countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) height. Forty male and 39 female university students completed 3 maximal-effort CMJs during 2 testing sessions, which were separated by 24-48 hours. The height of the CMJ was measured from all 3 devices simultaneously. Systematic error, relative reliability, absolute reliability, and heteroscedasticity were assessed for each device. Systematic error across the 3 CMJ trials was observed within both sessions for males and females, and this was most frequently observed when the CMJ height was measured by the Vertec. No systematic error was discovered across the 2 testing sessions when the maximum CMJ heights from the 2 sessions were compared. In males, the Myotest demonstrated the best intrasession reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.95; SEM = 1.5 cm; coefficient of variation [CV] = 3.3%) and intersession reliability (ICC = 0.88; SEM = 2.4 cm; CV = 5.3%; limits of agreement = -0.08 ± 4.06 cm). Similarly, in females, the Myotest demonstrated the best intrasession reliability (ICC = 0.91; SEM = 1.4 cm; CV = 4.5%) and intersession reliability (ICC = 0.92; SEM = 1.3 cm; CV = 4.1%; limits of agreement = 0.33 ± 3.53 cm). Additional analysis revealed that heteroscedasticity was present in the CMJ when measured from all 3 devices, indicating that better jumpers demonstrate greater fluctuations in CMJ scores across testing sessions. To attain reliable CMJ height measurements, practitioners are encouraged to familiarize athletes with the CMJ technique and then allow the athletes to complete numerous repetitions until performance plateaus, particularly if the Vertec is being used.

Electrical properties and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of Bi(Zn0.5Ti0.5)O3 doped Pb(Zr0.4Ti0.6)O3 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, M. H.; Zhang, J.; Xu, X. L.; Funakubo, H.; Sugiyama, Y.; Ishiwara, H.; Li, J.

2010-10-01

(1-x)Pb(Zr0.4,Ti0.6)O3-(x)Bi(Zn0.5,Ti0.5)O3 (PZT-BZT) (x =0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.08, and 0.1) films were deposited on Pt(111)/Ti/SiO2/Si(100) substrates by chemical solution deposition using spin-coating. All samples showed highly (111) oriented perovskite phase and no other phase was observed. The ferroelectric properties of PZT-BZT films were systematically investigated as a function of the content x of the BZT solution. It is found that BZT doping in PZT films could greatly enhance the remnant polarization (Pr), as well as improve the fatigue property. In a 3 wt % BZT-doped PZT film, the 2Pr and the coercive field (Ec) are 90 μC/cm2 and 95 kV/cm at 10 kHz, respectively, at an electric field of 500 kV/cm, and the leakage current density is less than 1×10-7 A/cm2. The impact of BZT doping on the structure of PZT has been investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Experimental determination of energy spectrum of atmospheric gamma rays. [0. 9 to 18. 0 MeV

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

Martin, I.M.; Dutra, S.L.G.; Palmeira, R.A.R.

The energy spectrum of atmospheric gamma rays from 0.9 to 18.0 MeV was measured as a function of altitude in a series of two balloon flights from Sao Jose dos Campos, Sao Paulo, Brasil (12 GV cut-off rigidity). The detector used was a NaI(T1) crystal with a 1-cm-thick plastic scintillator anti-coincidence shield, connected to a 128-channel pulse height analyzer. Above 20 g/cm/sup 2/ the energy spectrum could be fitted to a power law with exponent 1.0 + or - 0.1 independent of the altitude. From 20 to 760 g/cm/sup 2/ the spectrum was found to be somewhat steeper, with themore » exponential index being 1.3 + or - 0.1. At 3.5 g/cm/sup 2/ the gamma ray flux was 0.30 photons/cm/sup 2/ -s at 1 MeV. These measurements are discussed and compared with calculated results. (auth)« less

Foot pressure and center of pressure in athletes with ankle instability during lateral shuffling and running gait.

PubMed

Huang, P-Y; Lin, C-F; Kuo, L-C; Liao, J-C

2011-12-01

This study evaluates foot pressure and center of pressure (COP) patterns in individuals with ankle instability during running and lateral shuffling. Eleven participants with ankle instability (AI) and 11 normal subjects (Normal) performed running and lateral shuffling tasks. The outcome measures were foot progression angle, peak pressure, and displacement of COP during stance phase. During running, the foot progression angle, that is, the angle of foot abduction, was lower in the AI group (Normal: 13.46° ± 4.45°; AI: 8.78° ± 3.91°), and the 1st metatarsal contact pressure (Normal: 0.76 ± 0.47 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 1.05 ± 0.70 N/cm(2)·kg) and the 3rd metatarsal peak pressure were higher in the AI (Normal: 0.96 ± 0.60 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 1.54 ± 0.68 N/cm(2)·kg). The medial-lateral (M-L) COP in the late-stance phase of running for the AI group transferred faster from lateral to medial foot than the Normal group. For lateral shuffling, the AI group had greater peak pressure at the 1st (Normal: 0.76 ± 0.67 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 1.49 ± 1.04 N/cm(2)·kg), 2nd (Normal: 0.57 ± 0.39 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 0.87 ± 0.68 N/cm(2)·kg), 3rd (Normal: 0.70 ± 0.54 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 1.42 ± 0.87 N/cm(2)·kg), and 4th (Normal: 0.52 ± 0.38 N/cm(2)·kg; AI: 1.12 ± 0.78 N/cm(2)·kg) metatarsal areas than the Normal group. The M-L COP located more laterally from the early to mid-stance phase in the AI compared with the Normal group. The findings suggest that COP displacement during lateral shuffle may be a factor in ankle instability while the foot progression angle during running may be a compensatory strategy. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Biophysical properties of carboxymethyl derivatives of mannan and dextran.

PubMed

Korcová, Jana; Machová, Eva; Filip, Jaroslav; Bystrický, Slavomír

2015-12-10

Mannan from Candida albicans, dextran from Leuconostoc spp. and their carboxymethyl (CM)-derivatives were tested on antioxidant and thrombolytic activities. As antioxidant tests, protection of liposomes against OH radicals and reducing power assay were used. Dextran and mannan protected liposomes in dose-dependent manner. Carboxymethylation significantly increased antioxidant properties of both CM-derivatives up to concentration of 10mg/mL, higher concentrations did not change the protection of liposomes. The reducing power of CM-mannan (DS 0.92) was significantly lower (P<0.05) than underivatized mannan. No reductive activity was found for dextran and CM-dextran. All CM-derivatives demonstrated statistically significant increasing activity compared with underivatized polysaccharides. The highest thrombolytic activity was found using CM-mannan (DS 0.92). The clot lysis here amounted to 68.78 ± 6.52% compared with 0.9% NaCl control (18.3 ± 6.3%). Three-dimensional surface profiles of mannan, dextran, and their CM-derivatives were compared by atomic force microscopy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Manufacture of bulk superconducting YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) by a continuous process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meng, R. L.; Kinalidis, C.; Sun, Y. Y.; Gao, L.; Tao, Y. K.

1990-01-01

The development of a continuous process for fabricating large bulk superconductors with a predetermined grain orientation is reported. A bar of the 123 compound with dimensions 5 x 0.5 x about 0.3 cm with excellent grain alignment has been fabricated continuously. The bulk 123 thus obtained has magnetically determined J(c)s of about 30,000 and 12,000 A/sq cm at 0 and 1 T, respectively, and transport J(c)s of 20,000, 11,000, and 7500 A-sq cm at 0, 0.54, and 0.83 T.

Symmetrical solid oxide fuel cells with impregnated SrFe0.75Mo0.25O3-δ electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Xie; Liu, Xuejiao; Han, Da; Wu, Hao; Li, Junliang; Zhan, Zhongliang

2014-04-01

Here we report nominally symmetrical solid oxide fuel cells that feature thin La0.9Sr0.1Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-δ (LSGM) electrolytes and impregnated SrFe0.75Mo0.25O3-δ (SFMO)-LSGM composite electrodes. Operation on hydrogen fuels and air oxidants can produce maximum power densities of 0.39 W cm-2 at 650 °C and 0.97 W cm-2 at 800 °C. Impedance measurements indicate that the anode and the cathode polarizations are 0.22 and 0.04 Ω cm2 at 800 °C, respectively. Hydrogen partial pressure and temperature dependence of impedance data in humidified hydrogen shows that hydrogen oxidation kinetics is largely determined by hydrogen adsorption on the SFMO catalysts at high temperatures and charge transfer reactions along the SFMO|LSGM interfaces at low temperatures. Carbon tolerance of the present fuel cells is also examined in iso-octane fuels balanced by nitrogen at 800 °C that yields stable maximum power densities of 0.39 W cm-2.

HFS and isotope shift in the atomic spectrum of205Pb

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barboza-Flores, M.; Redi, O.; Schönberger, P.; Stroke, H. H.; Naumann, R. A.

1987-06-01

The hfs of205Pb in the 283.3-nm resonance line and its isotope shift (IS) have been measured in absorption with the use of dispersive spectroscopy. A new method for calibration and analysis, when internal standards are not available is described. The results are: hfs interaction constants A=70.3(5)×10-3 cm-1, B=-0.6(1.1)×10-3 cm-1,205Pb-208Pb IS=-123.9(2.0)×10-3 cm-1. The derived nuclear magnetic dipole moment, μ=0.704(5) μ N is in good agreement with values calculated with a nuclear configuration mixing model.

The changing seascape of Galway Bay, Western Ireland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mc Cullagh, D.; Benetti, S.; Plets, R. M. K.; Edwards, R.

2016-12-01

During the late Quaternary significant environmental and relative sea-level variations have contributed to shaping present day coastlines. This is particularly evident along formerly glaciated continental margins. Strong evidence of these changes are recorded in Galway Bay, Western Ireland. This research uses a multidisciplinary approach. Seismic and multibeam data, sedimentological, micropaleontological, geochemical analysis and 15 radiocarbon dates of sediment cores from the bay provide post last glacial maximum (LGM) sea level and environmental reconstructions for the region. The acoustic stratigraphy of the bay includes 3 seismic units: the deepest unit represents the acoustic basement, composed of limestone and granite bedrock; the middle unit is composed of the oldest preserved sediments, deposited during and after the LGM, and interpreted to be glacial till. The uppermost unit represents deposition and reworking after glacial retreat. The erosive action of the ice sheet that extended off the Irish coast is thought to be responsible for the removal and reworking of all sediments older that the LGM. In the sediment cores, three main lithofacies were identified: 1) a sandy silt and clay facies, 2) a distinct shell hash interlayer and, 3) a fine silty sand facies. These 3 facies are found within the uppermost seismic unit, and initial radiocarbon dating of shells in 4 cores, constrain these sediments and the uppermost seismic unit to the Holocene. Preliminary qualitative analysis on foraminifera from several cores shows a general trend of progression from estuarine to open marine conditions, inferred from indicator species. This trend is supported by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis which shows increased ratios of Cl/Fe in younger deposits. Constraining dates on sea level variations in the region will be added to the sea level database for Ireland and possibly used to adjust the existing relative sea level models. These are important for understating past sea level variations and modelling future trends.

3D printing of normal and pathologic tricuspid valves from transthoracic 3D echocardiography data sets.

PubMed

Muraru, Denisa; Veronesi, Federico; Maddalozzo, Anna; Dequal, Daniele; Frajhof, Leonardo; Rabischoffsky, Arnaldo; Iliceto, Sabino; Badano, Luigi P

2017-07-01

To explore the feasibility of using transthoracic 3D echocardiography (3DTTE) data to generate 3D patient-specific models of tricuspid valve (TV). Multi-beat 3D data sets of the TV (32 vol/s) were acquired in five subjects with various TV morphologies from the apical approach and analysed offline with custom-made software. Coordinates representing the annulus and the leaflets were imported into MeshLab (Visual Computing Lab ISTICNR) to develop solid models to be converted to stereolithographic file format and 3D print. Measurements of the TV annulus antero-posterior (AP) and medio-lateral (ML) diameters, perimeter (P), and TV tenting height (H) and volume (V) obtained from the 3D echo data set were compared with those performed on the 3D models using a caliper, a syringe and a millimeter tape. Antero-posterior (4.2 ± 0.2 cm vs. 4.2 ± 0 cm), ML (3.7 ± 0.2 cm vs. 3.6 ± 0.1 cm), P (12.6 ± 0.2 cm vs. 12.7 ± 0.1 cm), H (11.2 ± 2.1 mm vs. 10.8 ± 2.1 mm) and V (3.0 ± 0.6 ml vs. 2.8 ± 1.4 ml) were similar (P = NS for all) when measured on the 3D data set and the printed model. The two sets of measurements were highly correlated (r = 0.991). The mean absolute error (2D - 3D) for AP, ML, P and tenting H was 0.7 ± 0.3 mm, indicating accuracy of the 3D model of <1 mm. Three-dimensional printing of the TV from 3DTTE data is feasible with highly conserved fidelity. This technique has the potential for rapid integration into clinical practice to assist with decision-making, surgical planning, and teaching. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Pole lengths influence O2-cost during double poling in highly trained cross-country skiers.

PubMed

Carlsen, Camilla Høivik; Rud, Bjarne; Myklebust, Håvard; Losnegard, Thomas

2018-02-01

In elite cross-country skiing, double poling is used in different terrain. This study compared O 2 -cost and kinematics during double poling with four different pole lengths [self-selected (SS), SS - 5 cm, SS + 5 cm, SS + 10 cm] at Low versus Moderate incline. Thirteen highly trained male cross-country skiers (mean ± SD 23 ± 3 years; 182 ± 4 cm; 77 ± 6 kg) completed eight submaximal trials with roller skis on a treadmill at two conditions: "Low incline" (1.7°; 4.5 m s -1 ) and "Moderate incline" (4.5°; 2.5 m s -1 ) with each of the four pole lengths. O 2 -cost and 3D body kinematics were assessed in each trial. In Low incline, SS + 10 cm induced a lower O 2 -cost than all the other pole lengths [P < 0.05; effect size (ES) 0.5-0.8], whereas no differences were found between the remaining pole lengths (P > 0.05; ES 0.2-0.4). In Moderate incline, significant differences between all pole lengths were found for O 2 -cost, with SS - 5 cm > SS > SS + 5 cm > SS + 10 cm (P < 0.05; ES 0.6-1.8). The relative differences in O 2 -cost between SS and the other pole lengths were greater in Moderate incline than Low incline (SS - 5 cm; 1.5%, ES 0.8, SS + 5 cm; 1.3%, ES 1.0, and SS + 10 cm; 1.9%, ES 1.0, all P < 0.05). No difference was found in cycle, poling or reposition times between pole lengths. However, at both conditions a smaller total vertical displacement of center of mass was observed with SS + 10 cm compared to the other pole lengths. Increasing pole length from SS - 5 cm to SS + 10 cm during double poling induced lower O 2 -cost and this advantage was greater in Moderate compared to Low incline.

Fabrication and electrochemical properties of hemisphere structured 3D Li(Li0.2Mn0.54Co0.13Ni0.13)O2 cathode thin film for all-solid-state lithium battery.

PubMed

Yim, H; Kong, W Y; Yoon, S J; Kim, Y C; Choi, J W

2013-05-01

The Li[Li0.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13]O2 cathode thin films were deposited on planar, hemisphere, linked hemisphere, and isolated hemisphere structured Pt current collector thin films to investigate the effect of 3-dimensional (3-D) structure for the electrochemical properties of active cathode thin films. The films of linked hemisphere structure shows the highest initial discharge capacity of 140 microA h/cm2-microm which is better than those of planar (62 microA h/cm2-microm), hemisphere (94.6 microA h/cm2-microm), and isolated hemisphere (135 microA h/cm2-microm) films due to increase of surface area for cathode thin films. Linked hemisphere shows the biggest capacity and the best retention rate because 6 nanobridges of each hemisphere bring strong connection.

Olprinone/dopamine combination for improving diaphragmatic fatigue in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs.

PubMed

Fujii, Yoshitaka

2006-05-01

Diaphragmatic fatigue might contribute to the development of respiratory failure. In particular, the spontaneous, natural rate of phrenic nerve discharge occurs mainly in low-frequency ranges making low-frequency fatigue clinically important in both humans and animals. Olprinone, a phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitor, improves contractility in fatigued diaphragm, but is also associated with hypotension. Dopamine might be used concomitantly for treating related hypotension. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of olprinoneplus dopamine on diaphragmatic fatigue in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs. This nonblinded study was conducted at the Department ofAnesthesiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tsukuba, Japan. Diaphragmatic fatigue (assessed by a decrease in diaphragmatic contractility) was induced by intermittent supramaximal bilateral electrophrenic stimulation at a frequency of 20 Hz applied for 30 minutes. Immediately after the fatigue-producing period, groups 2, 3, and 4 received an initial 10 μg/kg dose of olprinone. Group 2 then received maintenance olprinone of 0.3 μg/kg · min; group 3 received maintenance olprinone 0.3 μg/kg · min plus dopamine 2 μg/kg · min; and group 4 received maintenance olprinone 0.3 μg/kg · min plus dopamine 5 μg/kg · min. Group 1 received no study drug. Olprinone and dopamine were administered IV for 30 minutes. Diaphragmatic contractility was assessed by measuring the maximal transdiaphragmatic pressure (Pdi) generated by test stimuli after airway occlusion at functional residual capacity. Hypotension induced by the study drugs was defined as a >10 mm Hg decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP), calculated by diastolic pressure plus ⅓ pulse pressure, from baseline. Twenty-eight mongrel dogs (18 males and 10 females, weighing 10-15 kg)were used in the study; 7 dogs were randomly assigned to each treatment group. When fatigue was established in each group, mean (SD) Pdi at low-frequency (20 Hz) stimulation decreased significantly from baseline in all groups (group 1: 15.6 [2.2] vs 11.7 [2.4] cm H2O, P = 0.008; group 2: 15.4 [1.5] vs 11.6 [1.3] cm H2O, P= 0.005; group 3:15.5 [2.0] vs 11.6 [1.8] cm H2O, P= 0.006; group 4: 15.7 [1.4] vs 12.0 [1.4] cm H2O, P= 0.008), while no significant change existed in Pdi at high-frequency (100 Hz) stimulation (P = NS). After study drug administration, Pdi in groups 2, 3, and 4 increased significantly from fatigued values at both 20 Hz stimulation (group 2: 11.6 [1.3] vs 21.8 [2.0] cm H2O, P = 0.001; group 3: 11.6 [1.8] vs 22.2 [1.8] cm H2O, P = 0.001; group 4: 12.0 [1.4] vs 25.9 [1.9 ] cm H2O, P = 0.001) and 100 Hz stimulation (group 2: 22.0 [2.2] vs 29.0 [1.9] cm H2O, P = 0.002; group 3: 22.1 [2.0] vs 29.3 [2.2] cm H2O, P = 0.002; group 4: 21.8 [2.2] vs 31.7 [2.4] cm H2O, P= 0.001). The increase in Pdi was significantly larger in group 4 compared with the other 3 groups (all, P < 0.05). Hypotension was not observed in group 4. MAP did not change significantly in group 1 or group 4 compared with baseline or fatigued MAP values (P = NS). Groups 2 and 3 had significant decreases in MAP with treatment compared with values in group 1 and with baseline and fatigued MAP values (all, P < 0.05). The MAP of group 4 was significantly greater than the MAP of groups 2 and 3 with treatment (both, P < 0.05). Olprinone 0.3 μg/kg sd min plus dopamine 5 μg/kg · min improved contractility in fatigued diaphragms and was not associated with hypotension in these pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs. Olprinone monotherapy and olprinone 0.3 μg/kg · min plus dopamine 2 μg/kg · min might improve contractility significantly. However, it was also associated with significant decreases in MAP.

A Novel Absorbable Radiopaque Hydrogel Spacer to Separate the Head of the Pancreas and Duodenum in Radiation Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer.

PubMed

Rao, Avani D; Feng, Ziwei; Shin, Eun Ji; He, Jin; Waters, Kevin M; Coquia, Stephanie; DeJong, Robert; Rosati, Lauren M; Su, Lin; Li, Dengwang; Jackson, Juan; Clark, Stephen; Schultz, Jeffrey; Hutchings, Danielle; Kim, Seong-Hun; Hruban, Ralph H; DeWeese, Theodore L; Wong, John; Narang, Amol; Herman, Joseph M; Ding, Kai

2017-12-01

We assessed the feasibility and theoretical dosimetric advantages of an injectable hydrogel to increase the space between the head of the pancreas (HOP) and duodenum in a human cadaveric model. Using 3 human cadaveric specimens, an absorbable radiopaque hydrogel was injected between the HOP and duodenum by way of open laparotomy in 1 case and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance in 2 cases. The cadavers were subsequently imaged using computed tomography and dissected for histologic confirmation of hydrogel placement. The duodenal dose reduction and planning target volume (PTV) coverage were characterized using pre- and postspacer injection stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) plans for the 2 cadavers with EUS-guided placement, the delivery method that appeared the most clinically desirable. Modeling studies were performed using 60 SBRT plans consisting of 10 previously treated patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer, each with 6 different HOP-duodenum separation distances. The duodenal volume receiving 15 Gy (V15), 20 Gy (V20), and 33 Gy (V33) was assessed for each iteration. In the 3 cadaveric studies, an average of 0.9 cm, 1.1 cm, and 0.9 cm HOP-duodenum separation was achieved. In the 2 EUS cases, the V20 decreased from 3.86 cm 3 to 0.36 cm 3 and 3.75 cm 3 to 1.08 cm 3 (treatment constraint <3 cm 3 ), and the V15 decreased from 7.07 cm 3 to 2.02 cm 3 and 9.12 cm 3 to 3.91 cm 3 (treatment constraint <9 cm 3 ). The PTV coverage improved or was comparable between the pre- and postinjection studies. Modeling studies demonstrated that a separation of 8 mm was sufficient to consistently reduce the V15, V20, and V33 to acceptable clinical constraints. Currently, dose escalation has been limited owing to radiosensitive structures adjacent to the pancreas. We demonstrated the feasibility of hydrogel separation of the HOP and duodenum. Future studies will evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique with the potential for more effective dose escalation using SBRT or intensity-modulated radiation therapy to improve the outcomes in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of consumable household products for decontaminating retail skinless, boneless chicken breasts.

PubMed

McKee, L H; Neish, L; Pottenger, A; Flores, N; Weinbrenner, K; Remmenga, M

2005-03-01

The effect of 15 consumable products, including juices, wines, and vinegar, used as rinsing agents on microbial loads of retail skinless, boneless chicken breasts was evaluated in two studies. Ten breasts were rinsed for 1 min with each solution. Samples were swabbed before and after rinsing with a cellulose sponge and evaluated for total aerobic (APC), total coliform (TCC), and generic Escherichia coli counts by Petrifilm methods. No differences were found in initial APC or TCC in either study, with initial mean APC ranging from 5.30 to 7.05 log CFU/cm2 and initial mean TCC ranging from 2.21 to 3.36 log CFU/cm2. In study 1, the APC for breasts rinsed with distilled white vinegar (3.22 log CFU/cm2) was lower than for those rinsed with all other solutions except cranberry juice cocktail (3.86 log CFU/cm2). The TCC for breasts rinsed with distilled white vinegar (0.00 log CFU/cm2) and cranberry juice cocktail (0.20 log CFU/cm2) were lower than those for all other solutions except 10% NaCl (0.43 log CFU/cm2) and 10% NaHCO3 (0.48 log CFU/cm2). In study 2, APC values for breasts rinsed with red wine (5.29 log CFU/cm2) and white wine (5.32 log CFU/cm2) were lower than for breasts rinsed with the other three solutions. The TCC after rinsing with chicken broth (4.48 log CFU/cm2) was higher than for all other solutions except Italian dressing. Although distilled white vinegar was the most effective rinsing agent, all solutions produced lower counts after rinsing, indicating that consumers could use rinsing to remove microorganisms from chicken breast surfaces prior to cooking.

Relationship Between Iron Valence States of Serpentine in CM Chondrites and Their Aqueous Alteration Degrees

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikouchi, T.; Zolensky, M.; Satake, W.; Le, L.

2012-01-01

The 0.6-0.7 micron absorption band observed for C-type asteroids is caused by the presence of Fe(3+) in phyllosilicates . Because Fe-bearing phyllosilicates, especially serpentine, are the most dominant product of aqueous alteration in the most abundant carbonaceous chondrites, CM chondrites, it is important to understand the crystal chemistry of serpentine in CM chondrites to better understand spectral features of C-type asteroids. CM chondrites show variable degrees of aqueous alteration, which should be related to iron valences in serpentine. It is predicted that the Fe(3+)/Sum of (Fe) ratios of serpentine in CM chondrites decrease as alteration proceeds by Si and Fe(3+) substitutions from end-member cronstedtite to serpentine, which should be apparent in the absorption intensity of the 0.6-0.7 micron band from C-type asteroids. In fact, the JAXA Hayabusa 2 target (C-type asteroid: 1993 JU3) exhibits heterogeneous spectral features (0.7 micron absorption band disappears by rotation). From these points of view, we have analyzed iron valences of matrix serpentine in several CM chondrites which span the entire observed range of aqueous alteration using Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Absorption Near-Edge Structure (SR-XANES). In this abstract we discuss the relationship between obtained Fe(3+)/Sum of (Fe) ratios and alteration degrees by adding new data to our previous studies

Rovibrational constants of the ground state and v8 = 1 state of 13C2HD3 by high-resolution FTIR spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ng, L. L.; Tan, T. L.

2016-06-01

The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of the c-type ν8 band of 13C2HD3 was recorded for the first time at a unapodized resolution of 0.0063 cm-1 in the wavenumber region of 830-1000 cm-1. Through the fitting of a total of 1057 assigned infrared transitions using Watson's A-reduced Hamiltonian in the Ir representation, rovibrational constants for the upper state (v8 = 1) up to five quartic centrifugal distortion terms were derived for the first time with a root-mean-square (rms) deviation of 0.00073 cm-1. The band center of ν8 of 13C2HD3 was found to be 913.011021(55) cm-1. Ground state rovibrational constants up to five quartic terms of 13C2HD3 were also determined from a fit of 453 ground state combination-differences from the present infrared measurements with an rms deviation of 0.00072 cm-1 for the first time. The uncertainty of the measured infrared lines was estimated to be ±0.0012 cm-1. From the ground state rotational constants, the inertial defect of 13C2HD3 was calculated to be 0.06973(16) uÅ2, showing the high planarity of the molecule.

[Penile augmentation and elongation using autologous dermal-fat strip grafting].

PubMed

Yang, Zhe; Li, Yang-qun; Tang, Yong; Chen, Wen; Li, Qiang; Zhou, Chuan-de; Zhao, Mu-xin; Hu, Chun-mei

2012-05-01

To investigate the effect of autologous dermal-fat strip grafting in penile augmentation and elongation. From May 2004 to December 2010, 24 patients underwent penile enhancement with free dermal-fat strip grafting. Through suprapubic incision, the superior suspensory ligament and part deep suspensory ligament are cutted off to lengthen the penis. The resulted dead space is filled with the autologous dermal-fat strip (6.0-9.5 cm in length, 1.2-1.5 cm in width and 0.6-0.8 cm in depth) to enhance the penis. Primary healing was achieved in 23 cases. Incisional fat liquefaction happened in one case which healed after dressing change. The penile appearance was satisfactory both at rest or erection. The penile length and circumference increased by 2.5-4.8 cm (average, 3.2 cm) and 1.8-3.0 cm (average, 2.4 cm), respectively. 18 patients were followed up for 3 months to 5 years. All the patients were satisfactory on the cosmetic and functional results. No complication happened. It is safe and effective for penile augmention and elongation with autologous dermal-fat strip grafting and disconnection of penile suspensory ligament.

Effect of manganese doping on remnant polarization and leakage current in (K0.44,Na0.52,Li0.04)(Nb0.84,Ta0.10,Sb0.06)O3 epitaxial thin films on SrTiO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abazari, M.; Akdoǧan, E. K.; Safari, A.

2008-05-01

Single phase, epitaxial, ⟨001⟩ oriented, undoped and 1mol% Mn-doped (K0.44,Na0.52,Li0.04)(Nb0.84,Ta0.10,Sb0.06)O3 thin films of 400nm thickness were synthesized on SrRuO3 coated SrTiO3. Such films exhibit well saturated hysteresis loops and have a spontaneous polarization (Ps) of 10μC /cm2, which is a 150% higher over the Ps of the undoped composition. The coercive field of 1mol% Mn doped films is 13kV/cm. Mn-doping results in three orders of magnitude decrease in leakage current above 50kV/cm electric field, which we attribute to the suppression of intrinsic p-type conductivity of undoped films by Mn donors.

Markers of cartilage and synovial metabolism in joint fluid and serum of patients with chondromalacia of the patella.

PubMed

Väätäinen, U; Lohmander, L S; Thonar, E; Hongisto, T; Agren, U; Rönkkö, S; Jaroma, H; Kosma, V M; Tammi, M; Kiviranta, I

1998-03-01

To further our understanding of the pathogenesis of chondromalacia of the patella (CM), we have studied the release into knee joint fluid and serum, obtained from patients with CM, of molecules associated with the metabolism of joint cartilage matrix and synovium. Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), interleukin-6 (IL-6), stromelysin-1 (MMP-3), interstitial collagenase (MMP-1), tissue inhibitor for metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1), phospholipase activity A2 (PLA2), hyaluronan (HA), aggrecan fragments (AGN) and antigenic keratan sulfate (KS) were quantified in knee joint lavage fluid from 96 patients with CM; KS and HA also was measured in serum. Chondromalacia was graded on a scale of I to IV according to Outerbridge (1961). The histopathology of the synovial membrane close to the patellofemoral joint was evaluated. Control samples were obtained from nine patients with knee pain presenting with arthroscopically normal knee joints. The concentrations of MMP-3, MMP-1 and TIMP-1 proteins in joint lavage fluid were increased in advanced (grade IV) CM, compared with controls. Levels of MMP-1 in lavage fluid correlated with the severity of CM (r = 0.38, P < 0.01) and MMP-1 and MMP-3 concentrations correlated with each other (r = 0.45, P < 0.001). TIMP-1 was elevated in grade IV CM compared with grades II and III CM (P < 0.02, P < 0.01). Interleukins (IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta and IL-6) showed no significant change in CM. The lavage fluid level of PLA2 increased with the severity of CM (r = 0.40, P < 0.001). Serum KS was higher in CM IV than in controls (P = 0.05), while lavage fluid KS concentration was elevated in CM I (P = 0.04). There were no differences in the lavage fluid levels of AGN and HA between the different study groups. Synovium showed slight or moderate histological signs of inflammation in 9% of CM patients. The changes in the release and activity of these marker molecules from serum and synovial fluid may reflect changes in the metabolism of articular cartilage and synovium in CM, that are consistent with those observed in early-stage tibiofemoral cartilage changes in OA.

False negative cytology in large thyroid nodules.

PubMed

Giles, Wesley H; Maclellan, Reid A; Gawande, Atul A; Ruan, Daniel T; Alexander, Erik K; Moore, Francis D; Cho, Nancy L

2015-01-01

Controversy exists regarding the accuracy of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in large thyroid nodules. Recent surgical series have documented false-negative rates ranging from 0.7 to 13 %. We examined the accuracy of benign FNA cytology in patients with thyroid nodules ≥3 cm who underwent surgical resection and identified features characteristic of false-negative results. We retrospectively studied all thyroidectomy specimens between January 2009 and October 2011 and identified nodules ≥3 cm with corresponding benign preoperative FNA cytology. We collected clinical information regarding patient demographics, nodule size, symptoms, sonographic features, FNA results, and final surgical pathology. For comparison, we analyzed nodules <3 cm from this cohort also with benign FNA cytology. A total of 323 nodules with benign preoperative cytology were identified. Eighty-three nodules were <3 cm, 94 nodules were 3-3.9 cm, and 146 nodules were ≥4 cm in size. The false-negative rate was 11.7 % for all nodules ≥3 cm and 4.8 % for nodules <3 cm (p = 0.03). Subgroup analysis of nodules ≥3 cm revealed a false-negative rate of 12.8 % for nodules 3-3.9 cm and 11 % for nodules ≥4 cm. Age ≥55 years and asymptomatic clinical status were the only patient characteristics that reached statistical significance as risk factors. Final pathology of the false-negative specimens consisted mainly of follicular variant of papillary thyroid cancer and follicular thyroid cancer. When referred for thyroidectomy, patients with large thyroid nodules demonstrate a modest, yet significant, false-negative rate despite initial benign aspiration cytology. Therefore, thyroid nodules ≥3 cm may be considered for removal even when referred with benign preoperative cytology.

SU-F-E-06: Dosimetric Characterization of Small Photons Beams of a Novel Linear Accelerator

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

Almonte, A; Polanco, G; Sanchez, E

2016-06-15

Purpose: The aim of the present contribution was to measure the main dosimetric quantities of small fields produced by UNIQUE and evaluate its matching with the corresponding dosimetric data of one 21EX conventional linear accelerator (Varian) in operation at the same center. The second step was to evaluate comparative performance of the EDGE diode detector and the PinPoint micro-ionization chamber for dosimetry of small fields. Methods: UNIQUE is configured with MLC (120 leaves with 0.5 cm leaf width) and a single low photon energy of 6 MV. Beam data were measured with scanning EDGE diode detector (volume of 0.019 mm{supmore » 3}), a PinPoint micro-ionization chamber (PTW) and for larger fields (≥ 4×4cm{sup 2}) a PTW Semi flex chamber (0.125 cm{sup 3}) was used. The scanning system used was the 3D cylindrical tank manufactured by Sun Nuclear, Inc. The measurement of PDD and profiles were done at 100 cm SSD and 1.5 depth; the relative output factors were measured at 10 cm depth. Results: PDD and the profile data showed less than 1% variation between the two linear accelerators for fields size between 2×2 cm{sup 2} and 5×5cm{sup 2}. Output factor differences was less than 1% for field sizes between 3×3 cm{sup 2} and 10×10 cm{sup 2} and less of 1.5 % for fields of 1.5×1.5 cm{sup 2} and 2×2 cm{sup 2} respectively. The dmax value of the EDGE diode detector, measured from the PDD, was 8.347 mm for 0.5×0,5cm{sup 2} for UNIQUE. The performance of EDGE diode detector was comparable for all measurements in small fields. Conclusion: UNIQUE linear accelerator show similar dosimetrics characteristics as conventional 21EX Varian linear accelerator for small, medium and large field sizes.EDGE detector show good performance by measuring dosimetrics quantities in small fields typically used in IMRT and radiosurgery treatments.« less

Re-evaluation of Apollo 17 Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heffels, Alexandra; Knapmeyer, Martin; Oberst, Jürgen; Haase, Isabel

2017-01-01

We re-analyzed Apollo 17 Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment (LSPE) data to improve our knowledge of the subsurface structure of this landing site. We use new geometrically accurate 3-D positions of the seismic equipment deployed by the astronauts, which were previously derived using high-resolution images by Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) in combination with Apollo astronaut photography. These include coordinates of six Explosive Packages (EPs) and four geophone stations. Re-identified P-wave arrival times are used to calculate two- and three-layer seismic velocity models. A strong increase of seismic velocity with depth can be confirmed, in particular, we suggest a more drastic increase than previously thought. For the three-layer model the P-wave velocities were calculated to 285, 580, and 1825 m/s for the uppermost, second, and third layer, respectively, with the boundaries between the layers being at 96 and 773 m depth. When compared with results obtained with previously published coordinates, we find (1) a slightly higher velocity (+4%) for the uppermost layer, and (2) lower P-wave velocities for the second and third layers, representing a decrease of 34% and 12% for second and third layer, respectively. Using P-wave arrival time readings of previous studies, we confirm that velocities increase when changing over from old to new coordinates. In the three-layer case, this means using new coordinates alone leads to thinned layers, velocities rise slightly for the uppermost layer and decrease significantly for the layers below.

Fabrication of 5 at.%Yb:(La0.1Y0.9)2O3 transparent ceramics by chemical precipitation and vacuum sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shanshan; Zhu, Xingwen; Li, Jiang; Yavetskiy, Roman; Ivanov, Maxim; Liu, Binglong; Liu, Wenbin; Pan, Yubai

2017-09-01

Yttria (Y2O3) nanopowders were synthesized by a normal precipitation method using (NH4)2SO4 as dispersing agent. Pure Y2O3 powders without any other phase can be achieved by calcining the precursor at 600 °C for 4 h. The precursor and Y2O3 powders were characterized by TG-DTA, XRD, SEM and BET. In this work, 5 at.%Yb:(La0.1Y1.9)2O3 transparent ceramics were made by vacuum sintering at 1650 °C for 10 h. The in-line transmittance of the 5 at.%Yb:(La0.1Y0.9)2O3 ceramics is 81.3% at the wavelength of 1031 nm. The absorption cross-sections of the sample are calculated to be 1.20 × 10-20 cm2, 5.74 × 10-21 cm2 and 4.18 × 10-21 cm2 at 976, 951 and 906 nm, respectively. The emission cross-sections of the emission peak located at around 1031 and 1073 nm are 1.13 × 10-20 and 0.42 × 10-20 cm2, respectively.

Sterilization of Surfaces with a Handheld Atmospheric Pressure Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicks, Robert; Habib, Sara; Chan, Wai; Gonzalez, Eleazar; Tijerina, A.; Sloan, Mark

2009-10-01

Low temperature, atmospheric pressure plasmas have shown great promise for decontaminating the surfaces of materials and equipment. In this study, an atmospheric pressure, oxygen and argon plasma was investigated for the destruction of viruses, bacteria, and spores. The plasma was operated at an argon flow rate of 30 L/min, an oxygen flow rate of 20 mL/min, a power density of 101.0 W/cm^3 (beam area = 5.1 cm^2), and at a distance from the surface of 7.1 mm. An average 6log10 reduction of viable spores was obtained after only 45 seconds of exposure to the reactive gas. By contrast, it takes more than 35 minutes at 121^oC to sterilize anthrax in an autoclave. The plasma properties were investigated by numerical modeling and chemical titration with nitric oxide. The numerical model included a detailed reaction mechanism for the discharge as well as for the afterglow. It was predicted that at a delivered power density of 29.3 W/cm^3, 30 L/min argon, and 0.01 volume% O2, the plasma generated 1.9 x 10^14 cm-3 O atoms, 1.6 x 10^12 cm-3 ozone, 9.3 x 10^13 cm-3 O2(^1δg), and 2.9 x 10^12 cm-3 O2(^1σ^+g) at 1 cm downstream of the source. The O atom density measured by chemical titration with NO was 6.0 x 10^14 cm-3 at the same conditions. It is believe that the oxygen atoms and the O2(^1δg) metastables were responsible for killing the anthrax and other microorganisms.

Integrated multimodal-catheter imaging unveils principal relationships among ventricular electrical activity, anatomy, and function.

PubMed

Rao, Liyun; Ling, Yuesheng; He, Renjie; Gilbert, April L; Frangogiannis, Nikolaos G; Wang, Jianwen; Nagueh, Sherif F; Khoury, Dirar S

2008-02-01

Multiple imaging modalities are employed independent of one another while managing complex cardiac arrhythmias. To combine electrical, anatomical, and functional imaging in a single catheter system, we developed a balloon catheter that carried 64 electrodes on its surface and an intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheter through a central lumen. The catheter system was inserted, and the balloon was inflated inside the left ventricle (LV) of eight dogs with 6-wk-old infarction, created by occlusion in the left anterior descending coronary artery. Anatomy was constructed by ICE imaging (9 MHz) through the balloon. Single-beat noncontact mapping (NCM) was performed via the multielectrode array to reconstruct unipolar endocardial electrograms during sinus rhythm. Standard contact mapping (CM) of the endocardium was also carried out for reference. Myocardial infarction in anterior LV extending from the middle to apical regions was localized both by ICE and NCM and validated by CM and pathology. The overall difference in the activation times between NCM and CM was 3 +/- 1 ms. Unipolar voltage in infarcted middle anterior LV was smaller than the voltage in normal middle inferior LV both by NCM (11 +/- 4 vs. 16 +/- 3 mV; P = 0.002) and CM (11 +/- 3 vs. 20 +/- 4 mV; P < 0.001). Unipolar voltage was also inversely related to infarct transmurality, both by NCM (r = -0.87; P = 0.005) and CM (r = -0.94; P < 0.001). The infarct area by ICE (7.7 +/- 2.9 cm(2)) was in agreement with CM (bipolar voltage, <1 mV; and area, 7.6 +/- 3.3 cm(2); r = 0.80; P = 0.016). Meanwhile, the voltage threshold that depicted the infarct area by NCM was directly related to the smallest unipolar voltage reconstructed within the infarct (r = 0.96; P < 0.001). In conclusion, combining NCM and ICE imaging in a single catheter system is feasible. The preclinical development of such an integrated system and its evaluation in experimental myocardial infarction demonstrate capabilities for single-beat mapping at multiple sites as well as the online assessment of anatomy and myocardial function.

Likelihood ratio of computed tomography characteristics for diagnosis of malignancy in adrenal incidentaloma: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Sabet, Fatemeh Alsadat; Majdzadeh, Reza; Mostafazadeh Davani, Babak; Heidari, Kazem; Soltani, Akbar

2015-01-01

To propose an evidence based diagnostic algorithm using mass characteristics to determine malignancy in patients with adrenal incidentaloma by CTscan. A systematic review in Medline, Scopus, relevant reference books and desk searching was performed up to January 2016 with relevant reference checking. The summery estimates of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio of different characteristics were calculated in two groups of the articles investigating the cases without previous malignancy and the articles investigating the oncologic cases. Thirty six articles were included in this study. In the first group with no history of malignancy a positive and negative LR of 3.1 and 0.13 in 4 cm threshold and positive and negative LR of 2.85 and 0 in 10HU density were found. In the second group with history of malignancy positive and negative LR of 2.3 and 0.27 in 3 cm threshold and positive and negative LR of 3.6 and 0.08 in 20HU density were resulted. The results retrieved in this study considering the limitations show that adrenal incidentaloma with a size less than 4 cm or a mass larger than 4 cm with density less than 10HU in the first group can be managed with imaging follow up. For masses larger than 4 cm with density more than 10HU another diagnostic procedure should be performed. In the second group an adrenal mass larger than 3 cm or less than 3 cm with density more than 20HU should go under operation. But masses smaller than 3 cm with less than 20HU density can be followed by imaging.

The association between occurrence and severity of subclinical and clinical mastitis on pregnancies per artificial insemination at first service of Holstein cows.

PubMed

Fuenzalida, M J; Fricke, P M; Ruegg, P L

2015-06-01

The objective of this prospective study was to determine associations between occurrence and severity of clinical (CM) and subclinical mastitis (SM) during a defined breeding risk period (BRP, 3d before to 32d after artificial insemination) on pregnancies per artificial insemination at first service (P/AI1). Dairy cows (n=3,144) from 4 Wisconsin herds were categorized based on the occurrence of one or more CM or SM events during and before the BRP: (1) healthy, (2) mastitis before BRP, (3) SM during BRP, (4) chronic SM, (5) CM during BRP, or (6) chronic CM. Clinical mastitis cases were categorized based on etiology (gram-negative, gram-positive, and no growth) and severity (mild, moderate, or severe). Compared with healthy cows, the odds of pregnancy were 0.56, 0.67, and 0.75 for cows experiencing chronic CM, CM, or SM during the BRP, respectively. The occurrence of chronic SM was not associated with reduced probability of P/AI1. Compared with healthy cows, the odds of pregnancy were 0.71 and 0.54 for cows experiencing mild or moderate-severe cases of CM during the BRP, respectively. The odds of pregnancy for cows experiencing CM caused by gram-negative or gram-positive bacteria during the BRP were 0.47 and 0.59, respectively. The occurrence of CM that resulted in no growth of bacteria in cultured milk samples was not associated with reductions in P/AI1. Regardless of etiology, microbiologically positive cases of CM with moderate or severe symptoms were associated with substantial reductions in P/AI1. Etiology, severity, and timing of CM were associated with decreases in the probability of pregnancy at first artificial insemination. Severity of the case was more important than etiology; however, regardless of severity, microbiologically negative cases were not associated with reduced probability of pregnancy. Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Three-dimensional hierarchical NiCo2O4 nanowire@Ni3S2 nanosheet core/shell arrays for flexible asymmetric supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Bo; Kong, Dezhi; Huang, Zhi Xiang; Mo, Runwei; Wang, Ye; Han, Zhaojun; Cheng, Chuanwei; Yang, Hui Ying

2016-05-01

Three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 core/shell arrays on Ni foam were synthesized by a facile, stepwise synthesis approach. The 3D heterogeneous NiCo2O4 nanostructure forms an interconnected web-like scaffold and serves as the core for the Ni3S2 shell. The as-prepared NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 nanowire array (NWA) electrodes exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, such as high specific areal capacitance and excellent cycling stability. The specific areal capacitance of 3.0 F cm-2 at a current density of 5 mA cm-2 is among the highest values and the only 6.7% capacitance decay after 10 000 cycles demonstrates the excellent cycling stability. A flexible asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was fabricated with activated carbon (AC) as the anode and the obtained NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 NWAs as the cathode. The ASC device exhibited a high energy density of 1.89 mW h cm-3 at 5.81 W cm-3 and a high power density of 56.33 W cm-3 at 0.94 mW h cm-3. As a result, the hybrid nanoarchitecture opens a new way to design high performance electrodes for electrochemical energy storage applications.Three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 core/shell arrays on Ni foam were synthesized by a facile, stepwise synthesis approach. The 3D heterogeneous NiCo2O4 nanostructure forms an interconnected web-like scaffold and serves as the core for the Ni3S2 shell. The as-prepared NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 nanowire array (NWA) electrodes exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, such as high specific areal capacitance and excellent cycling stability. The specific areal capacitance of 3.0 F cm-2 at a current density of 5 mA cm-2 is among the highest values and the only 6.7% capacitance decay after 10 000 cycles demonstrates the excellent cycling stability. A flexible asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was fabricated with activated carbon (AC) as the anode and the obtained NiCo2O4@Ni3S2 NWAs as the cathode. The ASC device exhibited a high energy density of 1.89 mW h cm-3 at 5.81 W cm-3 and a high power density of 56.33 W cm-3 at 0.94 mW h cm-3. As a result, the hybrid nanoarchitecture opens a new way to design high performance electrodes for electrochemical energy storage applications. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr02600a

Role of organic aerosols in CCN activation and closure over a rural background site in Western Ghats, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singla, V.; Mukherjee, S.; Safai, P. D.; Meena, G. S.; Dani, K. K.; Pandithurai, G.

2017-06-01

The cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) closure study was performed to exemplify the effect of aerosol chemical composition on the CCN activity of aerosols at Mahabaleshwar, a high altitude background site in the Western Ghats, India. For this, collocated aerosol, CCN, Elemental Carbon (EC), Organic Carbon (OC), sub-micron aerosol chemical speciation for the period from 3rd June to 19th June 2015 was used. The chemical composition of non-refractory particulate matter (<1 μm) as measured by Time of Flight - Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (ToF-ACSM) was dominated by organics with average concentration of 3.81 ± 1.6, 0.32 ± 0.06, 0.15 ± 0.02, 0.13 ± 0.03 and 0.95 ± 0.12 μg m-3 for organics, ammonium, chloride, nitrate and sulphate, respectively. The PM1 number concentration as obtained by Wide Range Aerosol Spectrometer (WRAS) varied from 750 to 6480 cm-3. The average mass concentration of elemental carbon (EC) as measured by OC-EC analyzer was 1.16 ± 0.4 μg m-3. The average CCN concentrations obtained from CCN counter (CCNC) at five super-saturations (SS's) was 118 ± 58 cm-3 (0.1% SS), 873 ± 448 cm-3 (0.31% SS), 1308 ± 603 cm-3 (0.52% SS), 1610 ± 838 cm-3 (0.73% SS) and 1826 ± 985 cm-3 (0.94% SS). The CCN concentrations were predicted using Köhler theory on the basis of measured aerosol particle number size distribution, size independent NR-PM1 chemical composition and calculated hygroscopicity. The CCN closure study was evaluated for 3 scenarios, B-I (all soluble inorganics), B-IO (all soluble organics and inorganics) and B-IOOA (all soluble inorganic and soluble oxygenated organic aerosol, OOA). OOA component was derived from the positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis of organic aerosol mass spectra. Considering the bulk composition as internal mixture, CCN closure study was underestimated by 16-39% for B-I and overestimated by 47-62% for B-IO. The CCN closure result was appreciably improved for B-IOOA where the knowledge of OOA fraction was introduced and uncertainty reduced to within 8-10%.

Active surveillance of renal masses: an analysis of growth kinetics and clinical outcomes stratified by radiological characteristics at diagnosis.

PubMed

Dorin, Ryan; Jackson, Max; Cusano, Antonio; Haddock, Peter; Kiziloz, Halil; Meraney, Anoop; Shichman, Steven

2014-01-01

To determine the growth rate of renal masses (RMs) under active surveillance (AS), and to describe the clinical outcome of AS patients. We conducted a retrospective review of an AS database to obtain demographics, radiological and pathologic characteristics and RM size of patients. RMs were followed at 6-12 month intervals for ≥1 year with computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or renal ultrasound. Kaplan-Meier analysis determined the annual likelihood of intervention. RMs were divided into 3 radiographic subcategories (solid, cystic, and angiomyolipoma). A linear regression model determined RM growth rates. 131 RMs in 114 patients were included. Median age, Charlson Comorbidity Index score and mean follow-up were 69.1 years, 4.0 and 4.2±2.6 years, respectively. Maximal tumor diameter (MTD) at diagnosis was 2.1 ± 1.3 cm. 49 RMs exhibited negative or zero net growth. Mean MTD growth rate for all RMs was 0.72±3.2 (95% CI: 0.16-1.28) mm/year. When stratified by MTD at diagnosis, mean RM growth rates were 0.84, 0.84, 0.44, 0.74 and 0.71 mm/year for RMs ≤1 cm, 1-≤2cm, 2-≤ 3cm, 3-≤ 4cm and ≥4cm, respectively (p≤0.01). The 5 and 10-year freedom from intervention rates were 93.1% and 88.5%, respectively. There was a single case of suspected metastases, but no deaths related to kidney cancer. RMs under AS grew slowly, and had a low incidence of requiring surgical intervention and progression. Solid enhancing masses grew slowly, and were more likely to trigger intervention. AS should be considered for selected patients with small RMs.

Late Pleistocene to Holocene paleoseismicity of the House Range fault from UAV photogrammetry and exposure-age dating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niemi, N. A.; Stahl, T.; Andreini, J.; Wells, J.; Bunds, M. P.

2016-12-01

The western face of the House Range in Utah is one of the steepest normal fault-bounded blocks in the Basin and Range. In spite of this, clear evidence of recent faulting is limited to a single c. 10 km-long, 1-2 m high scarp at the surface. A drone-based photogrammetric DEM with <10 cm resolution reveals that the fault displaces transgressive Lake Bonneville (c. 20-18 ka) and Provo highstand shorelines (c. 17 cal. ka) by similar amounts, suggesting a single event displacement of c. 1.5 m. Elastic strain models that incorporate shoreline geometry are best-fit by a fault dip of 50-60° in the uppermost crust, whereas previous studies have noted that the fault becomes listric or is truncated by a low-angle fault at depth. Exposure-ages of surface clasts on undeformed alluvial fans suggest that regression from the Provo shoreline occurred rapidly and that the last surface-rupturing earthquake occurred during occupation of the Provo shoreline. This pattern is consistent with other areas in the Great Basin that observe enhanced seismic moment release and earthquake ruptures during late Pleistocene lake regression. We calculate a time-averaged slip rate of 0.1-0.2 mm/yr and minimum recurrence interval of 17 ka. This study highlights the utility of drone surveys and high-resolution geochronology in neotectonic studies and in defining paleoseismic fault parameters.

A study of low threshold and high gain Nd3+ ions doped SiO2-B2O3-Na2CO3-NaF-CaF2 glasses for NIR laser applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Megala, Rajesh; Gowthami, T.; John Sushma, N.; Kamala, S.; Deva Prasad Raju, B.

2018-05-01

Fluoroborosilicate glasses of composition 35SiO2-25B2O3-10Na2CO3-15NaF-15CaF2-xNd2O3 (where x = 0.1, 0.5. 1.0, 2.0 mol%) were prepared by melt quenching technique and various physical properties have been calculated. From the absorption spectra J-O Intensity parameters Ωλ (λ = 2, 4, 6) and radiative properties are evaluated by using J-O theory. The high values of Ω2 = 4.213 × 10-20 cm2, Ω4 = 5.345 × 10-20 cm2, Ω6 = 5.526 × 10-20 cm2 suggest that among the prepared glasses 0.5 mol% Nd glass is more asymmetric, more covalent and rigid in nature. The emission spectra were recorded with 808 nm laser as excitation source. The strong NIR emissions were observed at 876 nm, 1056 nm, 1328 nm corresponding to the transitions 4F3/2 → 4I9/2, 4F3/2 → 4I11/2, 4F3/2 → 4I13/2 respectively. Stimulated emission cross -section (σemi) and Gain bandwidth (σemi × Δλeff) were calculated. For 0.5 mol% Nd these values are found to be 3.30 × 10-20 cm2, 11 × 10-26 cm2. From the decay curve analysis the lifetime values for 4F3/2 level have been determined and these values are decreased with increase in Nd3+ ions concentration. These results may suggest that the prepared SBNCNd05 (Nd = 0.5 mol%) glass could be useful for 1056 nm laser applications.

Soil Water Content Sensor Response to Organic Matter Content under Laboratory Conditions.

PubMed

Fares, Ali; Awal, Ripendra; Bayabil, Haimanote K

2016-08-05

Studies show that the performance of soil water content monitoring (SWCM) sensors is affected by soil physical and chemical properties. However, the effect of organic matter on SWCM sensor responses remains less understood. Therefore, the objectives of this study are to (i) assess the effect of organic matter on the accuracy and precision of SWCM sensors using a commercially available soil water content monitoring sensor; and (ii) account for the organic matter effect on the sensor's accuracy. Sand columns with seven rates of oven-dried sawdust (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 12% and 18% v/v, used as an organic matter amendment), thoroughly mixed with quartz sand, and a control without sawdust were prepared by packing quartz sand in two-liter glass containers. Sand was purposely chosen because of the absence of any organic matter or salinity, and also because sand has a relatively low cation exchange capacity that will not interfere with the treatment effect of the current work. Sensor readings (raw counts) were monitored at seven water content levels (0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.08, 0.12, 0.18, 0.24, and 0.30 cm³ cm(-3)) by uniformly adding the corresponding volumes of deionized water in addition to the oven-dry one. Sensor readings were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the organic matter level and water content. Sensor readings were strongly correlated with the organic matter level (R² = 0.92). In addition, the default calibration equation underestimated the water content readings at the lower water content range (<0.05 cm³ cm(-3)), while it overestimated the water content at the higher water content range (>0.05 cm³ cm(-3)). A new polynomial calibration equation that uses raw count and organic matter content as covariates improved the accuracy of the sensor (RMSE = 0.01 cm³ cm(-3)). Overall, findings of this study highlight the need to account for the effect of soil organic matter content to improve the accuracy and precision of the tested sensor under different soils and environmental conditions.

Biodegradable multilayer barrier films based on alginate/polyethyleneimine and biaxially oriented poly(lactic acid).

PubMed

Gu, Chun-Hong; Wang, Jia-Jun; Yu, Yang; Sun, Hui; Shuai, Ning; Wei, Bing

2013-02-15

A layer-by-layer (LBL) approach was used to assemble alternating layers of sodium alginate (ALG)/polyethyleneimine (PEI) on biaxially oriented poly(lactic acid) (BOPLA) films in order to produce bio-based all-polymer thin films with low gas permeability. Increasing the depositing of ALG and PEI from 0 to 30 layers results in large thickness variations (from 0 to 3.92 μm). After 30 ALG/PEI layers are deposited, the resulting assembly has an OTR of 1.22 cm(3)/(m(2) day atm). When multiplied by thickness, the resulting oxygen permeability (OP) is found to be less than 3.8×10(-17) cm(3) cm/cm(2) s Pa, which is almost 3 orders of magnitude lower than that of uncoated BOPLA film (1.8×10(-14) cm(3)cm/cm(2) s Pa). At the same time, the resulting multilayer-coated BOPLA films maintain high optical clarity and tensile properties. This unique barrier thin film has become a promising alternative to non-biodegradable synthetic food packaging materials. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Larvicidal, ovicidal and repellent activities of Cymbopogan citratus Stapf (Graminae) essential oil against the filarial mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) (Diptera : Culicidae).

PubMed

Pushpanathan, T; Jebanesan, A; Govindarajan, M

2006-12-01

Essential oils extracted by steam distillation from Cymbopogan citratus were evaluated for larvicidal, ovicidal and repellent activities against the filarial mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus. The larval mortality was observed after 24 hours treatment. The LC(50) values calculated for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th larval instar were 144.54 +/- 2.3, 165.70 +/- 1.2 and 184.18 +/- 0.8 ppm respectively. Hundred percent ovicidal activity was observed at 300 ppm. Skin repellent test at 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 mg/cm(2) concentration of C. citratus gave 100% protection up to 3.00, 4.00 and 5.00 hours respectively. The total percentage of protection of this essential oil was 49.64% at 1.0 mg/cm(2), 62.19% at 2.5 mg/cm(2) and 74.03% at 5.0 mg/cm(2) for 12 hours.

Collisional relaxation of O2(a1Δ, υ = 1, 2, 3) by CO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torbin, A. P.; Pershin, A. A.; Mebel, A. M.; Zagidullin, M. V.; Heaven, M. C.; Azyazov, V. N.

2018-01-01

Rate coefficients for the vibrational relaxation of O2(a1Δ, υ) by CO2 have been determined from the decay of fluorescence of the a1Δg → X3 Σg- (υ-υ‧) transitions with υ = υ‧ = 1, 2 and 3. O2(a1Δ, υ) molecules were produced by pulsed laser photolysis of ozone at a wavelength of 266 nm. The rate coefficients were measured to be (1.9 ± 0.2) × 10-14 cm3/s, (2.4 ± 0.2) × 10-14 cm3/s and (2.7 ± 0.3) × 10-14 cm3/s for υ = 1, 2 and 3 respectively.

Retrospective cohort study of bronchial doses and radiation-induced atelectasis after stereotactic body radiation therapy of lung tumors located close to the bronchial tree.

PubMed

Karlsson, Kristin; Nyman, Jan; Baumann, Pia; Wersäll, Peter; Drugge, Ninni; Gagliardi, Giovanna; Johansson, Karl-Axel; Persson, Jan-Olov; Rutkowska, Eva; Tullgren, Owe; Lax, Ingmar

2013-11-01

To evaluate the dose-response relationship between radiation-induced atelectasis after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and bronchial dose. Seventy-four patients treated with SBRT for tumors close to main, lobar, or segmental bronchi were selected. The association between incidence of atelectasis and bronchial dose parameters (maximum point-dose and minimum dose to the high-dose bronchial volume [ranging from 0.1 cm(3) up to 2.0 cm(3)]) was statistically evaluated with survival analysis models. Prescribed doses varied between 4 and 20 Gy per fraction in 2-5 fractions. Eighteen patients (24.3%) developed atelectasis considered to be radiation-induced. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between the incidence of radiation-induced atelectasis and minimum dose to the high-dose bronchial volumes, of which 0.1 cm(3) (D(0.1cm3)) was used for further analysis. The median value of D(0.1cm3) (α/β = 3 Gy) was EQD(2,LQ) = 147 Gy3 (range, 20-293 Gy3). For patients who developed atelectasis the median value was EQD(2,LQ) = 210 Gy3, and for patients who did not develop atelectasis, EQD(2,LQ) = 105 Gy3. Median time from treatment to development of atelectasis was 8.0 months (range, 1.1-30.1 months). In this retrospective study a significant dose-response relationship between the incidence of atelectasis and the dose to the high-dose volume of the bronchi is shown. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Soft tissue volume augmentation by the use of collagen-based matrices: a volumetric analysis.

PubMed

Thoma, Daniel S; Jung, Ronald E; Schneider, David; Cochran, David L; Ender, Andreas; Jones, Archie A; Görlach, Christoph; Uebersax, Lorenz; Graf-Hausner, Ursula; Hämmerle, Christoph H F

2010-07-01

The aim was to test whether or not soft tissue augmentation with a newly developed collagen matrix (CM) leads to volume gain in chronic ridge defects similar to those obtained by an autogenous subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG). In six dogs, soft tissue volume augmentation was performed by randomly allocating three treatment modalities to chronic ridge defects (CM, SCTG, sham-operated control). Impressions were taken before augmentation (baseline), at 28, and 84 days. The obtained casts were optically scanned and the images were digitally analysed. A defined region of interest was measured in all sites and the volume differences between the time points were calculated. The mean volume differences per area between baseline and 28 days amounted to a gain of 1.6 mm (CM; SD+/-0.9), 1.5 mm (SCTG; +/-0.1), and a loss of 0.003 mm (control; +/-0.3). At 84 days, the mean volume differences per area to baseline measured a gain of 1.4 mm (CM; +/-1.1), 1.4 mm (SCTG; +/-0.4), and a loss of 0.3 mm (control; +/-0.3). The differences between CM and SCTG were statistically significant compared with control at 28 and 84 days (p<0.001). Within the limits of this animal study, the CM may serve as a replacement for autogenous connective tissue.

Hippocampal volumes among older Indian adults: Comparison with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment

PubMed Central

Dhikav, Vikas; Duraisamy, Sharmila; Anand, Kuljeet Singh; Garga, Umesh Chandra

2016-01-01

Background: Hippocampal volume data from India have recently been reported in younger adults. Data in older adults are unknown. The present paper describes hippocampal volume from India among older adults and compares the same with patients having Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Materials and Methods: A total of 32 cognitively normal subjects, 20 patients with AD, and 13 patients with MCI were enrolled. Patients were evaluated for the diagnosis of AD/MCI using the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke and the Related Disorders Association criteria and the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) Scale (score = 0.5), respectively. Hippocampal volume was measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine by manual segmentation (Megnatom Symphony 1.5T scanner) three-dimensional (3D) sequences. Results: Age and duration of illness in the MCI group were 70.6 ± 8.6 years and 1.9 ± 0.9 years, respectively. In the AD group, age and duration of illness were 72 ± 8.1 years and 3.1 ± 2.2 years, respectively. In cognitively normal subjects, the age range was 45-88 years (66.9 ± 10.32) years. Mean mini–mental status examination (MMSE) score of healthy subjects was 28.28 ± 1.33. In the MCI group, MMSE was 27.05 ± 1.79. In the AD group, MMSE was 13.32 ± 5.6. In the healthy group, the hippocampal volume was 2.73 ± 0.53 cm3 on the left side and 2.77 ± 0.6 cm3 on the right side. Likewise, in MCI, the volume on the left side was 2.35 ± 0.42 cm3 and the volume on the right side was 2.36 ± 0.38 cm3. Similarly, in the AD group, the volume on the right side was 1.64 ± 0.55 cm3 and on the left side it was 1.59 ± 0.55 cm3. Post hoc analysis using Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) showed, using analysis of variance (ANOVA) that there was a statistically significant difference between healthy and AD (P ≤ 0.01), and between healthy and MCI (P ≤ 0.01) subjects. There was a correlation between MMSE score and hippocampal volume in the AD group. Conclusion: The volume of the hippocampus in older Indian adults was 2.77 ± 0. 6 cm3 on the right side and 2.73 ± 0.52 cm3 on the left side. There was a significant hippocampal volume loss in MCI/AD compared to cognitively normal subjects. PMID:27293329

Effect of a six month yoga exercise intervention on fitness outcomes for breast cancer survivors

PubMed Central

Hughes, Daniel C.; Darby, Nydia; Gonzalez, Krystle; Boggess, Terri; Morris, Ruth M.; Ramirez, Amelie G.

2016-01-01

Yoga-based exercise has proven to be beneficial for practitioners, including cancer survivors. This study reports on the improvements in physical fitness for 20 breast cancer survivors who participated in a six-month yoga-based (YE) exercise program. Results are compared to a comprehensive exercise (CE) program group and a comparison (C) exercise group who chose their own exercises. “Pre” and “post” fitness assessments included measures of anthropometrics, cardiorespiratory capacity, strength and flexibility. Descriptive statistics, effect size (d), dependent sample ‘t’ tests for all outcome measures were calculated for the YE group. Significant improvements included: decreased % body fat (−3.00%, d = −0.44, p < 0.001); increased sit to stand leg strength repetitions (2.05, d = 0.48, p = 0.003); forward reach (3.59 cm, d = 0.61, p = 0.01); and right arm sagittal range of motion (6.50°, d = 0.92, p= 0.05). To compare YE outcomes with the other two groups, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used. YE participants significantly outperformed C participants on “forward reach” (3.59 cm gained versus −2.44 cm lost), (p = 0.009) and outperformed CE participants (3.59 cm gained versus 1.35 cm gained), but not statistically significant. Our results support yoga-based exercise modified for breast cancer survivors as safe and effective. PMID:26395825

Photodissociation of PbI2 in the ultraviolet: analysis of the A rightarrow X band of PbI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, G.; Herring, C. M.; Fraser, R. D.; Eden, J. G.

1996-07-01

Emission and absorption studies of lead moniodide (PbI) have been carried out by photodissociation of PbI2 vapor at one of several wavelengths (193, 248, 266, 308, and 351 nm) in the ultraviolet. Strong emission on the A \\rightarrow X2 Pi 1/2 band (14400-22800 cm -1 ; 440 \\similar-or-less lambda \\similar-or-less 695 nm) occurs when PbI2 is photodissociated at 248 or 266 nm. Also, absorption bands attributed to the B \\leftarrow X2 Pi 1/2,3/2 , D \\leftarrow X2 Pi 1/2,3/2 , and E \\leftarrow X2 Pi 1/2,3/2 transitions of the diatomic molecule have been observed at 290 and 380, 225 and 265, and 203 and 240 nm, respectively, as have emission bands peaking at 397.6, 531.6, 582.0, 595.1, 639.7, 685.9, and 707.9 nm that appear to arise from PbI2 itself. Analysis and computer simulations of the A \\rightarrow X2 Pi 1/2 emission spectra have resulted in identifications for virtually all (>120) of the observed vibrational bandheads. Several spectroscopic constants for the A and the X2 Pi 1/2 states of PbI have been determined to be Te(A)=20659+/-130 cm-1 , omega e\\prime =132.2+/-1.0cm -1 , omega e\\prime xe\\prime =1.91+/-0.06cm -1 , omega e\\prime \\prime=160.3+/-0.6cm-1 , and omega e\\prime \\primexe \\prime\\prime=0.24+/-0.03cm -1 . Also, the difference between the equilibrium internuclear separations for the X2 Pi 1/2 and the A states has been determined to be Delta Re=0.45+/-0.05 . The spontaneous-emission lifetime for the PbI(A) state and the rate constant for quenching of this state by PbI2 (in two-body collisions) have been measured to be (94.3+/-8.8) ns and (4.3+/-0.4) \\times 10-10 cm3s -1 , respectively.

Thermo-mechanical improvement of Inconel 718 using ex situ boron nitride-reinforced composites processed by laser powder bed fusion.

PubMed

Kim, Sang Hoon; Shin, Gi-Hun; Kim, Byoung-Kee; Kim, Kyung Tae; Yang, Dong-Yeol; Aranas, Clodualdo; Choi, Joon-Phil; Yu, Ji-Hun

2017-10-30

Hexagonal boron nitride-reinforced Inconel 718 (h-BN/IN718) composites were fabricated using a laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technique to treat a nanosheet-micropowder precursor mixture prepared in a mechanical blending process. Tailoring the BN in IN718 enhanced the thermal resistance of the composites, thereby dampening the sharpness of the melting temperature peak at 1364 °C. This is because the presence of the BN reinforcement, which has a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), resulted in a heat-blocking effect within the matrix. Following this lead, we found that the BN (2.29 g/cm 3 ) was uniformly distributed and strongly embedded in the IN718 (8.12 g/cm 3 ), with the lowest alloy density value (7.03 g/cm 3 ) being obtained after the addition of 12 vol% BN. Consequently, its specific hardness and compressive strength rose to 41.7 Hv 0.5 ·cm 3 /g and 92.4 MPa·cm 3 /g, respectively, compared to the unreinforced IN718 alloy with 38.7 Hv 0.5 ·cm 3 /g and 89.4 MPa·cm 3 /g, respectively. Most importantly, we discovered that the wear resistance of the composite improved compared to the unreinforced IN718, indicated by a decrease in the coefficient of friction (COF) from 0.43 to 0.31 at 2400 s. This is because the BN has an exfoliated surface and intrinsically high sliding and lubricating characteristics.

Reduction of Salmonella in ground chicken using a bacteriophage.

PubMed

Grant, Ar'Quette; Parveen, Salina; Schwarz, Jurgen; Hashem, Fawzy; Vimini, Bob

2017-08-01

This study's goal was to ascertain the effectiveness of a commercially available Salmonella bacteriophage during ground chicken production focusing on: water source, different Salmonella serovars, and time. Salmonella-free boneless, skinless chicken meat was inoculated with 4.0 Log CFU/cm2 of either a cocktail of 3 Salmonella isolates derived from ground chicken (GC) or a cocktail of 3 Salmonella strains not isolated from ground chicken (non-GC). Bacteriophages were spread onto the chicken using sterile tap or filtered water for 30 min or 8 h. Salmonella was recovered using standard plating method. Greater Salmonella reduction was observed when the bacteriophage was diluted in sterile tap water than in sterile filtered water: 0.39 Log CFU/cm2 and 0.23 Log CFU/cm2 reduction after 30 min, respectively (P < 0.05). The non-GC isolates showed reductions of 0.71 Log CFU/cm2 and 0.90 Log CFU/cm2 after 30 min and 8 h, respectively (P < 0.05). The GC isolates were less sensitive to the bacteriophage: 0.39 Log CFU/cm2 and 0.67 Log CFU/cm2 reductions after 30 min and 8 h, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, bacteriophage reduction was dependent on water used to dilute the bacteriophage, Salmonella's susceptibility to the bacteriophage, and treatment time. © 2017 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Near ultraviolet photodissociation spectroscopy of Mn+(H2O) and Mn+(D2O)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearson, Wright L.; Copeland, Christopher; Kocak, Abdulkadir; Sallese, Zachary; Metz, Ricardo B.

2014-11-01

The electronic spectra of Mn+(H2O) and Mn+(D2O) have been measured from 30 000 to 35 000 cm-1 using photodissociation spectroscopy. Transitions are observed from the 7A1 ground state in which the Mn+ is in a 3d54s1 electronic configuration, to the 7B2 (3d54py) and 7B1 (3d54px) excited states with T0 = 30 210 and 32 274 cm-1, respectively. Each electronic transition has partially resolved rotational and extensive vibrational structure with an extended progression in the metal-ligand stretch at a frequency of ˜450 cm-1. There are also progressions in the in-plane bend in the 7B2 state, due to vibronic coupling, and the out-of-plane bend in the 7B1 state, where the calculation illustrates that this state is slightly non-planar. Electronic structure computations at the CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ and TD-DFT B3LYP/6-311++G(3df,3pd) level are also used to characterize the ground and excited states, respectively. These calculations predict a ground state Mn-O bond length of 2.18 Å. Analysis of the experimentally observed vibrational intensities reveals that this bond length decreases by 0.15 ± 0.015 Å and 0.14 ± 0.01 Å in the excited states. The behavior is accounted for by the less repulsive px and py orbitals causing the Mn+ to interact more strongly with water in the excited states than the ground state. The result is a decrease in the Mn-O bond length, along with an increase in the H-O-H angle. The spectra have well resolved K rotational structure. Fitting this structure gives spin-rotation constants ɛaa″ = -3 ± 1 cm-1 for the ground state and ɛaa' = 0.5 ± 0.5 cm-1 and ɛaa' = -4.2 ± 0.7 cm-1 for the first and second excited states, respectively, and A' = 12.8 ± 0.7 cm-1 for the first excited state. Vibrationally mediated photodissociation studies determine the O-H antisymmetric stretching frequency in the ground electronic state to be 3658 cm-1.

Microwave ablation with multiple simultaneously powered small-gauge triaxial antennas: results from an in vivo swine liver model.

PubMed

Brace, Christopher L; Laeseke, Paul F; Sampson, Lisa A; Frey, Tina M; van der Weide, Daniel W; Lee, Fred T

2007-07-01

To prospectively investigate the ability of a single generator to power multiple small-diameter antennas and create large zones of ablation in an in vivo swine liver model. Thirteen female domestic swine (mean weight, 70 kg) were used for the study as approved by the animal care and use committee. A single generator was used to simultaneously power three triaxial antennas at 55 W per antenna for 10 minutes in three groups: a control group where antennas were spaced to eliminate ablation zone overlap (n=6; 18 individual zones of ablation) and experimental groups where antennas were spaced 2.5 cm (n=7) or 3.0 cm (n=5) apart. Animals were euthanized after ablation, and ablation zones were sectioned and measured. A mixed linear model was used to test for differences in size and circularity among groups. Mean (+/-standard deviation) cross-sectional areas of multiple-antenna zones of ablation at 2.5- and 3.0-cm spacing (26.6 cm(2) +/- 9.7 and 32.2 cm(2) +/- 8.1, respectively) were significantly larger than individual ablation zones created with single antennas (6.76 cm(2) +/- 2.8, P<.001) and were 31% (2.5-cm spacing group: multiple antenna mean area, 26.6 cm(2); 3 x single antenna mean area, 20.28 cm(2)) to 59% (3.0-cm spacing group: multiple antenna mean area, 32.2 cm(2); 3 x single antenna mean area, 20.28 cm(2)) larger than 3 times the mean area of the single-antenna zones. Zones of ablation were found to be very circular, and vessels as large as 1.1 cm were completely coagulated with multiple antennas. A single generator may effectively deliver microwave power to multiple antennas. Large volumes of tissue may be ablated and large vessels coagulated with multiple-antenna ablation in the same time as single-antenna ablation. (c) RSNA, 2007.

Multiple-electrode radiofrequency ablation: simultaneous production of separate zones of coagulation in an in vivo porcine liver model.

PubMed

Laeseke, Paul F; Sampson, Lisa A; Haemmerich, Dieter; Brace, Chris L; Fine, Jason P; Frey, Tina M; Winter, Thomas C; Lee, Fred T

2005-12-01

A multiple-electrode radiofrequency (RF) system was developed based on switching between electrodes that allows for the simultaneous use of as many as three electrically independent electrodes. The purpose of this study was to determine if each multiple-electrode ablation zone is identical to an ablation zone created with conventional single-electrode mode. Nine female domestic pigs (mean weight, 90 kg) were used for this study. A prototype monopolar multiple-electrode RF ablation system was created with use of an RF generator and an electronic switching algorithm. A maximum of three electrodes can be used simultaneously by switching between electrodes at each impedance spike (30 omega greater than baseline levels). A total of 39 zones of ablation were created at open laparotomy in pig livers with use of a conventional single electrode (n = 9), two single electrodes simultaneously (n = 6 ablations; 12 ablation zones), or three single electrodes simultaneously (n = 6 ablations; 18 ablation zones). RF electrodes were spaced in separate lobes of the liver when multiple zones of coagulation were created simultaneously. Animals were euthanized after RF ablation, livers were removed, and ablation zones were sectioned and measured. Zones of coagulation created simultaneously with two or three electrodes were equivalent to ablation zones created with use of conventional single-electrode ablation. No significant differences were observed among control animals treated with a single electrode, those with two separate zones of ablation created simultaneously, and those with three simultaneously created ablation zones in terms of mean (+/-SD) minimum diameter (1.6 cm +/- 0.6, 1.6 cm +/- 0.5, and 1.7 cm +/- 0.4, respectively), maximum diameter (2.0 cm +/- 0.5, 2.3 cm +/- 0.5, 2.2 cm +/- 0.5, respectively), and volume (6.7 cm3 +/- 3.7, 7.4 cm3 +/- 3.8, and 7.8 cm3 +/- 3.9; P > .30, analysis of variance, pairwise t-test comparisons). A rapid-switching multiple-electrode RF system was able to simultaneously create as many as three separate ablation zones of equivalent size compared with single-electrode controls. This system would allow physicians to simultaneously treat multiple tumors, substantially reducing procedure time and anesthesia risk.

Spectroscopic properties of Tm3+/Al3+ co-doped sol-gel silica glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xue; Lou, Fengguang; Wang, Shikai; Yu, Chunlei; Chen, Danping; Hu, Lili

2015-04-01

Tm3+/Al3+ co-doped silica glass was prepared by sol-gel method combined with high temperature sintering. Glasses with compositions of xTm2O3-15xAl2O3-(100 - 16x) SiO2 (in mol%, x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8 and 1.0) were prepared. The high thulium doped silica glass was realized. Their spectroscopic parameters were calculated and analyzed by Judd-Ofelt theory. Large absorption cross section (4.65 × 10-21 cm2 at 1668 nm) and stimulated emission cross section (6.00 × 10-21 cm2 at 1812 nm), as well as low hydroxyl content (0.180 cm-1), long fluorescence lifetime (834 μs at 1800 nm), large σem × τrad (30.05 × 10-21 cm2 ms) and large relative intensity ratio of the 1.8 μm (3F4 → 3H6) to 1.46 (3H4 → 3F4) emissions (90.33) are achieved in this Tm3+/Al3+ co-doped silica glasses. According to emission characteristics, the optimum thulium doping concentration is around 0.8 mol%. The cross relaxation (CR) between ground and excited states of Tm3+ ions was used to explain the optimum thulium doping concentration. These results suggest that the sol-gel method is an effective way to prepare Tm3+ doped silica glass with high Tm3+ doping and prospective spectroscopic properties.

Electromyographic evaluation of masseter muscle activity in horses fed (i) different types of roughage and (ii) maize after different hay allocations.

PubMed

Vervuert, I; Brüssow, N; Bochnia, M; Cuddeford, D; Coenen, M

2013-06-01

The aims of this study were to monitor electromyographic (EMG) activity of masseter muscle in healthy horses fed (i) different types of roughage and (ii) maize after different hay allocations. Four horses were offered the following three diets ad libitum: hay, haylage or straw/alfalfa chaff (SAC). In a second trial, four horses were fed cracked maize (CM) and hay in three different orders: (i) CM after a 12-h overnight fast; (ii) CM immediately after restricted hay intake (0.6 kg hay/100 kg BW); or 3) CM after hay intake ad libitum. The activity of the masseter muscle was determined by EMG (IED(®) ), and the following were measured: amplitude (muscle action potential = MAP, maximum voltage) and duration of MAP (s). The intake of hay or haylage was associated with intense masseter muscle activity (MAP: hay, 10 ± 1.7 V; haylage, 11 ± 3.3 V; and duration of MAP: hay, 0.31 ± 0.04 s; haylage, 0.30 ± 0.04 s). Similar intense chewing was measured for SAC (MAP 13 ± 3.8 V), although duration of the chewing cycle was relatively short (0.22 ± 0.03 s, diet p < 0.05), which is possibly related to the shorter fibre length. CM was consumed rapidly, with less intense masseter muscle activity (MAP 6.0 ± 1.5 V). Hay intake before CM did not affect chewing force of CM, but duration of chewing cycle was significantly prolonged by feeding hay ad libitum before CM was fed. The consumption of hay, haylage or SAC was associated with intensive masseter muscle activity that was likely to stimulate salivary flow rate. In contrast to roughage, concentrates like CM are consumed rapidly with less intensive masseter muscle activity. This situation is associated with a low salivary flow that may have an adverse effect on gastric function. © 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

[Measurements of IR absorption across section and spectrum simulation of lewisite].

PubMed

Zhang, Yuan-peng; Wang, Hai-tao; Zhang, Lin; Yang, Liu; Guo, Xiao-di; Bai, Yun; Sun, Hao

2015-02-01

The vapor infrared transmission spectra of varied concentration of lewisite-1 were measured by a long-path FT-IR spectrometer, and its characteristic frequencies are 814, 930, 1563 cm(-1); their infrared absorption cross section (a) were determined using Beer-Lambert law. The corresponding sigma values are 3.89 +/- 0.01, 1.43 +/- 0.06, 4.47 +/- 0.05 ( X 10(-20) cm2 x molecule(-1)). Two little teeny peaks, 1158, 1288 cm(-1) were found in the measured spectra. Density Functional Theory (DFT) was applied to calculated the infrared spectra of lewisite-1, -2, -3 on a b3lyp/6-311+g(d, p) level by Gauss09 package. The vibration modes were assigned by Gaussview5. 08. The calculated spectra and experimental spectra are in good agreement with each other in 600-1600 cm(-1) range, for the Person's r is 0.9991. The calculated spectra also showed three characteristic frequencies (293, 360, 374 cm(-1)) related to As atom. 0.977 was a scaling factor we determined for lewisite-1 through least-square error and its performance to scale lewisite-1, -2, -3 was acceptable. The results of this work are useful for monitoring environmental atmospheric concentrations of lewisite.

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

Gentile, Michelle S.; Usman, Asad A.; Neuschler, Erin I.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the axillary lymph nodes on pretreatment diagnostic computed tomography (CT) of the chest to determine their position relative to the anatomic axillary borders as defined by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) breast cancer atlas for radiation therapy planning. Methods and Materials: Pretreatment diagnostic CT chest scans available for 30 breast cancer patients with clinically involved lymph nodes were fused with simulation CT. Contouring of axillary levels I, II, and III according to the RTOG guidelines was performed. Measurements were made from the area of distal tumor to the anatomic bordersmore » in 6 dimensions for each level. Results: Of the 30 patients, 100%, 93%, and 37% had clinical involvement of levels I, II, and III, respectively. The mean number of lymph nodes dissected was 13.6. The mean size of the largest lymph node was 2.4 cm. Extracapsular extension was seen in 23% of patients. In 97% of patients, an aspect of the involved lymph node lay outside of the anatomic border of a level. In 80% and 83% of patients, tumor extension was seen outside the cranial (1.78 ± 1.0 cm; range, 0.28-3.58 cm) and anterior (1.27 ± 0.92 cm; range, 0.24-3.58 cm) borders of level I, respectively. In 80% of patients, tumor extension was seen outside the caudal border of level II (1.36 ± 1.0 cm, range, 0.27-3.86 cm), and 0% to 33% of patients had tumor extension outside the remaining borders of all levels. Conclusions: To cover 95% of lymph nodes at the cranial and anterior borders of level I, an additional clinical target volume margin of 3.78 cm and 3.11 cm, respectively, is necessary. The RTOG guidelines may be insufficient for coverage of axillary disease in patients with clinical nodal involvement who are undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy, incomplete axillary dissection, or treatment with intensity modulated radiation therapy. In patients with pretreatment diagnostic CT chest scans, fusion with simulation CT should be considered for tumor delineation.« less

The effect of voxel size on dose distribution in Varian Clinac iX 6 MV photon beam using Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yani, Sitti; Dirgayussa, I. Gde E.; Rhani, Moh. Fadhillah; Haryanto, Freddy; Arif, Idam

2015-09-01

Recently, Monte Carlo (MC) calculation method has reported as the most accurate method of predicting dose distributions in radiotherapy. The MC code system (especially DOSXYZnrc) has been used to investigate the different voxel (volume elements) sizes effect on the accuracy of dose distributions. To investigate this effect on dosimetry parameters, calculations were made with three different voxel sizes. The effects were investigated with dose distribution calculations for seven voxel sizes: 1 × 1 × 0.1 cm3, 1 × 1 × 0.5 cm3, and 1 × 1 × 0.8 cm3. The 1 × 109 histories were simulated in order to get statistical uncertainties of 2%. This simulation takes about 9-10 hours to complete. Measurements are made with field sizes 10 × 10 cm2 for the 6 MV photon beams with Gaussian intensity distribution FWHM 0.1 cm and SSD 100.1 cm. MC simulated and measured dose distributions in a water phantom. The output of this simulation i.e. the percent depth dose and dose profile in dmax from the three sets of calculations are presented and comparisons are made with the experiment data from TTSH (Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore) in 0-5 cm depth. Dose that scored in voxels is a volume averaged estimate of the dose at the center of a voxel. The results in this study show that the difference between Monte Carlo simulation and experiment data depend on the voxel size both for percent depth dose (PDD) and profile dose. PDD scan on Z axis (depth) of water phantom, the big difference obtain in the voxel size 1 × 1 × 0.8 cm3 about 17%. In this study, the profile dose focused on high gradient dose area. Profile dose scan on Y axis and the big difference get in the voxel size 1 × 1 × 0.1 cm3 about 12%. This study demonstrated that the arrange voxel in Monte Carlo simulation becomes important.

Sensitivity calibration procedures in optical-CT scanning of BANG 3 polymer gel dosimeters

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

Xu, Y.; Wuu, Cheng-Shie; Maryanski, Marek J.

2010-02-15

The dose response of the BANG 3 polymer gel dosimeter (MGS Research Inc., Madison, CT) was studied using the OCTOPUS laser CT scanner (MGS Research Inc., Madison, CT). Six 17 cm diameter and 12 cm high Barex cylinders, and 18 small glass vials were used to house the gel. The gel phantoms were irradiated with 6 and 10 MV photons, as well as 12 and 16 MeV electrons using a Varian Clinac 2100EX. Three calibration methods were used to obtain the dose response curves: (a) Optical density measurements on the 18 glass vials irradiated with graded doses from 0 tomore » 4 Gy using 6 or 10 MV large field irradiations; (b) optical-CT scanning of Barex cylinders irradiated with graded doses (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 Gy) from four adjacent 4x4 cm{sup 2} photon fields or 6x6 cm{sup 2} electron fields; and (c) percent depth dose (PDD) comparison of optical-CT scans with ion chamber measurements for 6x6 cm{sup 2}, 12 and 16 MeV electron fields. The dose response of the BANG 3 gel was found to be linear and energy independent within the uncertainties of the experimental methods (about 3%). The slopes of the linearly fitted dose response curves (dose sensitivities) from the four field irradiations (0.0752{+-}3%, 0.0756{+-}3%, 0.0767{+-}3%, and 0.0759{+-}3% cm{sup -1} Gy{sup -1}) and the PDD matching methods (0.0768{+-}3% and 0.0761{+-}3% cm{sup -1} Gy{sup -1}) agree within 2.2%, indicating a good reproducibility of the gel dose response within phantoms of the same geometry. The dose sensitivities from the glass vial approach are different from those of the cylindrical Barex phantoms by more than 30%, owing probably to the difference in temperature inside the two types of phantoms during gel formation and irradiation, and possible oxygen contamination of the glass vial walls. The dose response curve obtained from the PDD matching approach with 16 MeV electron field was used to calibrate the gel phantom irradiated with the 12 MeV, 6x6 cm{sup 2} electron field. Three-dimensional dose distributions from the gel measurement and the Eclipse planning system (Varian Corporation, Palo Alto, CA) were compared and evaluated using 3% dose difference and 2 mm distance-to-agreement criteria.« less

[Effects of light intensity on Quercus liaotungensis seed germination and seedling growth].

PubMed

Yan, Xing-fu; Wang, Jian-li; Zhou, Li-biao

2011-07-01

This paper studied the effects of different shading (55.4%, 18.9%, 5.5%, 2.2%, 0.5% , and 0.3% natural sunlight) on the seed germination and seedling growth of Quercus liaotungensis. The seed germination rate and germination index were the highest (72.5% and 0.22, respectively) at 55.4% natural sunlight, declined with decreasing light intensity, and were the lowest (42.5% and 0.11, respectively) at 0.3% natural sunlight. Strong light had definite delaying effect on the germination. The index of germination vigor increased with decreasing light intensity, being the maximum at 0.5% natural sunlight. The delay of seed germination under strong light could be the selective tradeoff on varied seed fates. Strong light benefited the basal stem diameter and root system growth and dry mass accumulation of Q. liaotunensis seedling, but resulted in the minimum seedlings height (6.06 cm). Greater morphological plasticity was observed for the seedlings under different shading, which lent support to the higher adaptability of the seedlings to light environment. For example, the specific leaf area, specific shoot length, specific root length, and chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll contents were the maximum at 0.5% natural sunlight, being 142.57 cm2 x g(-1), 156.86 cm x g(-1), 271.87 cm x g(-1), 0.07 g x cm(-2), and 0.24 g x cm(-2), respectively, and the minimum at 55.4% natural sunlight, being 44.89 cm2 x g(-1), 52.84 cm x g(-1), 101.98 cm x g(-1), 0.04 g x cm(-2), and 0.15 g x cm(-2), respectively. The variation of the root/shoot ratio of Q. liaotungensis seedlings under different shading could be the effects of the combination of light intensity and water availability.

Fire Management/Suppression Systems/Concepts Relating to Aircraft Cabin Fire Safety.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-01

polyamide- cm; cell size, cm; paper honeycomb; paper honeycomb; density, kg/cm 3 ; filler 2.413;0.31; 48.06; 2.413;0.31; 48.06; no core filler no core...0 4’ 14 ~ 1 4 44 N4 El4 (36M -11 - 0 0 N4 8A 0o N. 0 04 0n 0m C,0 0 44 . . 000040 -t 0 0 880 -8 ,0 04 0 C, 0 C4 4-0 OD -CD0C, m. g G - C4 A - 40 a

First analysis of the hybrid A/B-type 2ν8 band of C2HD3 and the Coriolis interactions with the ν3 + ν4 band by high-resolution FTIR spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ng, L. L.; Tan, T. L.; Chia, A. H.

2018-02-01

Using a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, the spectrum of the 2ν8 band of ethylene-d3 (C2HD3) was measured between 1745 to 1905 cm-1 at an unapodized resolution of 0.0063 cm-1. For the first time, 1664 perturbed and unperturbed a- and b-type absorption lines of the band were recorded, assigned and fitted using the Watson's A-reduced Hamiltonian in the Ir representation to derive rovibrational constants up to four quartic terms for the v8 = 2 state. Three rotational constants of the v3 = v4 = 1 state were also derived for the first time in this work from the analysis of the a- and b-Coriolis resonances with the v8 = 2 state, together with a set of resonance parameters. The root-mean-square (rms) deviation of the FTIR fit was 0.0010 cm-1. The band centers of the 2ν8 and ν3 + ν4 bands were determined to be 1831.457508 ± 0.000071 cm-1 and 1812.629 ± 0.022 cm-1, respectively. A set of ground state rovibrational constants of C2HD3 up to five quartic constants was also derived with improved precision from a simultaneous fit of 377 ground state combination differences (GSCDs) from a-type infrared transitions of the present analysis and 906 GSCDs from the previous work on the C-type ν8 band, with an rms deviation of 0.00043 cm-1. The transition dipole moment ratio | μa/μb | was found to be 2.194 ± 0.072.

Stereotactic Radiofrequency Ablation (SRFA) of Liver Lesions: Technique Effectiveness, Safety, and Interoperator Performance

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

Widmann, Gerlig, E-mail: gerlig.widmann@i-med.ac.at; Schullian, Peter, E-mail: peter.schullian@i-med.ac.at; Haidu, Marion, E-mail: marion.haidu@i-med.ac.at

Purpose: To evaluate technique effectiveness, safety, and interoperator performance of stereotactic radiofrequency ablation (SRFA) of liver lesions. Methods: Retrospective review including 90 consecutive patients from January 2008 to January 2010 with 106 computed tomography-guided SRFA sessions using both single and multiple electrodes for the treatment of 177 lesions: 72 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 105 metastases with a mean size of 2.9 cm (range 0.5-11 cm). Technique effectiveness and 1-year local recurrence were evaluated by computed tomographic scans. Complications, mortality, and hospital days were recorded. The performance between an experienced and inexperienced interventional radiologist was compared. Results: The overall technique effectivenessmore » after a single SRFA was 95.5% (93.1% for HCC and 97.1% for metastases). Four of the eight unsuccessfully treated lesions could be retreated (secondary technique effectiveness of 97.7%). Local recurrence at 1 year was 2.9%. Technique effectiveness was significantly different for lesions <5 cm (96.7%) and >5 cm (87.5%) (P = 0.044) but not for lesions <3 cm (95.9%) and 3-5 cm (100%). Compared to clear parenchymal property (97.3%), vessel vicinity (93.3%) (P = 0.349) and subcapsular (95.2%) (P = 0.532) had no, but hollow viscera vicinity (83.3%) had a significantly lower technique effectiveness (P = 0.020). Mortality rate was 0.9%. Major complications and hospital days were higher for cirrhosis Child-Pugh B (20%, 7.2 days) than Child-Pugh A (3.1%, 4.7 days) patients and for metastases (5.1%, 4.3 days). There was no significant difference in interoperator performance. Conclusions: RFA allowed for efficient, reliable, and safe ablation of large-volume liver disease.« less

Composite anode La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 impregnated with cobalt oxide for steam electrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shisong; Cheng, Jigui; Xie, Kui; Li, Peipei; Wu, Yucheng

2013-12-01

Oxygen-ion conducting solid oxide electrolyzer (SOE) has attracted a great deal of interest because it converts electrical energy into chemical energy directly. The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is occurred at the anode of solid oxide electrolyzer as the O2- being oxidized and form O2 gas, which is considered as one of the major cause of overpotentials in steam electrolyzers. This paper investigates the electrolysis of steam based on cobalt oxide impregnated La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSM) composite anode in an oxide-ion-conducting solid oxide electrolyzer. The conductivity of LSM is studied versus temperature and oxygen partial pressure and correlated to the electrochemical properties of the composite electrodes in symmetric cells at 800 °C. Different contents of Co3O4 (wt.1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%) were impregnated into LSM electrode and it was found that the polarization resistance (Rp) of symmetric cells gradually improved from 1.16 Ω•cm2 (LSM) to 0.24 Ω•cm2 (wt.10%Co3O4-LSM). Steam electrolysis based on LSM and wt.6%Co3O4-LSM anode electrolyzers are tested at 800°C and the AC impedance spectroscopy results indicated that the Rp of high frequency process significantly decreased from1.1 Ω•cm2 (LSM) to 0.5 Ω•cm2 (wt.6%Co3O4-LSM) under 1.8V electrolysis voltage and the Rp of low frequency process decreased from 14.9 Ω•cm2 to 5.7 Ω•cm2. Electrochemical catalyst Co3O4 can efficiently improve the electrode and enhance the performance of high temperature solid oxide electrolyzer.

Detection of the HC3NH+ and HCNH+ ions in the L1544 pre-stellar core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quénard, D.; Vastel, C.; Ceccarelli, C.; Hily-Blant, P.; Lefloch, B.; Bachiller, R.

2017-09-01

The L1544 pre-stellar core was observed as part of the ASAI (Astrochemical Surveys At IRAM) Large Program. We report the first detection in a pre-stellar core of the HCNH+ and HC3NH+ ions. The high spectral resolution of the observations allows us to resolve the hyperfine structure of HCNH+. Local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) analysis leads to derive a column density equal to (2.0 ± 0.2) × 1013 cm-2 for HCNH+ and (1.5 ± 0.5) × 1011 cm-2 for HC3NH+. We also present non-LTE analysis of five transitions of HC3N, three transitions of H13CN and one transition of HN13C, all of them linked to the chemistry of HCNH+ and HC3NH+. We computed for HC3N, HCN and HNC a column density of (2.0 ± 0.4) × 1013 cm-2, (3.6 ± 0.9) × 1014 cm-2 and (3.0 ± 1.0) × 1014 cm-2, respectively. We used the gas-grain chemical code nautilus to predict the abundances of all these species across the pre-stellar core. Comparison of the observations with the model predictions suggests that the emission from HCNH+ and HC3NH+ originates in the external layer where non-thermal desorption of other species was previously observed. The observed abundance of both ionic species ([HCNH+] ≃ 3 × 10-10 and [HC3NH+] ≃ [1.5 - 3.0] × 10-12, with respect to H2) cannot be reproduced at the same time by the chemical modelling within the error bars of the observations only. We discuss the possible reasons for the discrepancy and suggest that the current chemical models are not fully accurate or complete. However, the modelled abundances are within a factor of 3, consistent with the observations, considering a late stage of the evolution of the pre-stellar core, compatible with previous observations.

Impact of feeder space on laying hen feeding behavior and production performance in enriched colony housing.

PubMed

Oliveira, J L; Xin, H; Wu, H

2018-05-30

Current feeder space recommendations in laying hen welfare guidelines are inconsistent among and within countries. One determining criterion forming the recommendations (e.g. 12.0 cm/hen for the EU guideline) is that all birds can feed simultaneously. However, if there are other resources in the environment, as in enriched colony housing (ECH), it is unknown whether group-housed hens will choose to feed simultaneously. This study assesses the impact of feeder space on feeding behavior of 60 laying hens (W-36) in ECH using a ultra-high frequency radio-frequency identification-based tracking system. The feeder spaces investigated were 12.0, 9.5, 8.5 and 6.5 cm/hen, achieved by blocking portions of the overall feeder access to keep hens at the same stocking density. Each feeder space treatment, randomly assigned over the course of the experiment, lasted for 7 consecutive days. Feeding behaviors were characterized as daily time spent at the feeder (TS, min/hen-day), daily frequency of visits to the feeder (FV, #/hen-day), and maximum or average percentage of hens feeding simultaneously (MPB, APB, %). Group-average daily feed intake (FI, g/hen-day), water use (WU, g/hen-day), and hen-day egg production (HDEP, %) were also measured. The results revealed that at 12.0 cm/hen, where unoccupied feeder space was present, a maximum of 59.0±1.4% (average of 31.7±0.3%) hens fed simultaneously. No significant differences were detected among 12.0, 9.5 and 8.5 cm/hen in TS (293±10, 286±10 and 281±10 min/hen-day) and MPB (59.0±1.4, 57.3±1.4 and 53.3±1.4%) (P>0.05). The outcome of no significant differences also held true between 12.0 and 9.5 cm/hen in APB (31.7±0.3 v. 30.8±0.3%) and between 9.5 and 8.5 cm/hen in all response variables measured (P>0.05). However, there were significant differences in APB between 6.5 cm/hen and all other treatments; in TS and FV between 6.5 and 9.5 cm/hen; and in MPB between 6.5 and 12 cm/hen (P0.05). The results revealed that synchronous feeding of hens in the ECH did not increase with increasing feeder space. However, it is worth noting that lower feeder space may lead to aggression or frustration which was not quantified in the current study.

Effect of Zr substitution on the thermal and mechanical properties of Rh3A (A=Nb,Ta) - A theoretical study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manjula, M.; Sundareswari, M.; Viswanathan, E.

2018-04-01

The present study focuses upon the thermal and mechanical properties of Rh3ZrxA1-x (A= Nb,Ta) ternary alloys using ab initio density functional theory where Nb/Ta is substituted by Zr. These ternary alloys were investigated for the first time using elastic moduli, hardness, Debye temperature, Debye average velocity and Gruneisen parameter. Further the ductile/brittle analysis was made by using Cauchy pressure, degree of brittleness and Poisson's ratio. Systematic addition of Zr with Rh3Nb/Ta shows that Rh3Zr0.75Nb0.25, Rh3Zr0.875Nb0.125 and Rh3Zr0.875Ta0.125combinations are more ductile. Further the melting temperature of Rh3Zr0.75Nb0.25(2227 K), Rh3Zr0.875Nb0.125(2200 K) and Rh3Zr0.875Ta0.125 (2134 K) alloys are nearer to those of their parent binary alloys namely Rh3Nb (2636 K) and Rh3Ta (2562 K). Their corresponding density values (10.84 gm/cm3, 10.77 gm/cm3 and 11.09 gm/cm3) are found to be much less than those of their parent materials.

Spectroscopic study on the iodine molecule by a sequential three-photon excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishiwata, Takashi; Ohtoshi, Hirokazu; Sakaki, Mamoru; Tanaka, Ikuzo

1984-02-01

A three-photon absorption technique which utilizes a visible B 3Π0+u-X 1Σ+g transition followed by a simultaneous two-photon absorption was applied to study an ion-pair state of molecular iodine. The derived molecular parameters were Te=51 707 cm-1, ωe=131 cm-1, and Be=0.021 90 cm-1 for the F'(0+u) ion-pair state, which dissociates to I-(1S)+I+(1D). The excitation of I2 to a single rovibronic level of the F' state was achieved and its fluorescence spectrum showed two discrete band systems corresponding to the transitions to: (1) the ground state at higher vibrational levels; and (2) the weakly bound state (Te=19 286 cm-1, ωe=64 cm-1, and re=3.65 Å) converging to the I(2P3/2)+I(2P1/2) products.

Dinuclear complexes containing linear M-F-M [M = Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II)] bridges: trends in structures, antiferromagnetic superexchange interactions, and spectroscopic properties.

PubMed

Reger, Daniel L; Pascui, Andrea E; Smith, Mark D; Jezierska, Julia; Ozarowski, Andrew

2012-11-05

The reaction of M(BF(4))(2)·xH(2)O, where M is Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II), with the new ditopic ligand m-bis[bis(3,5-dimethyl-1-pyrazolyl)methyl]benzene (L(m)*) leads to the formation of monofluoride-bridged dinuclear metallacycles of the formula [M(2)(μ-F)(μ-L(m)*)(2)](BF(4))(3). The analogous manganese(II) species, [Mn(2)(μ-F)(μ-L(m)*)(2)](ClO(4))(3), was isolated starting with Mn(ClO(4))(2)·6H(2)O using NaBF(4) as the source of the bridging fluoride. In all of these complexes, the geometry around the metal centers is trigonal bipyramidal, and the fluoride bridges are linear. The (1)H, (13)C, and (19)F NMR spectra of the zinc(II) and cadmium(II) compounds and the (113)Cd NMR of the cadmium(II) compound indicate that the metallacycles retain their structure in acetonitrile and acetone solution. The compounds with M = Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) are antiferromagnetically coupled, although the magnitude of the coupling increases dramatically with the metal as one moves to the right across the periodic table: Mn(II) (-6.7 cm(-1)) < Fe(II) (-16.3 cm(-1)) < Co(II) (-24.1 cm(-1)) < Ni(II) (-39.0 cm(-1)) ≪ Cu(II) (-322 cm(-1)). High-field EPR spectra of the copper(II) complexes were interpreted using the coupled-spin Hamiltonian with g(x) = 2.150, g(y) = 2.329, g(z) = 2.010, D = 0.173 cm(-1), and E = 0.089 cm(-1). Interpretation of the EPR spectra of the iron(II) and manganese(II) complexes required the spin Hamiltonian using the noncoupled spin operators of two metal ions. The values g(x) = 2.26, g(y) = 2.29, g(z) = 1.99, J = -16.0 cm(-1), D(1) = -9.89 cm(-1), and D(12) = -0.065 cm(-1) were obtained for the iron(II) complex and g(x) = g(y) = g(z) = 2.00, D(1) = -0.3254 cm(-1), E(1) = -0.0153, J = -6.7 cm(-1), and D(12) = 0.0302 cm(-1) were found for the manganese(II) complex. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the exchange integrals and the zero-field splitting on manganese(II) and iron(II) ions were performed using the hybrid B3LYP functional in association with the TZVPP basis set, resulting in reasonable agreement with experiment.

Dynamics of large-wave-vector magnons and phonons in MnF2:Er3+ using a far-infrared quantum-counter technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rotter, L. D.; Dennis, W. M.; Yen, W. M.

1990-07-01

Magnons near the Brillouin zone-edge were generated in antiferromagnetic MnF2:Er3+ at 1.9 K by exciting the intrinsic two-magnon absorption band using a pulsed far-infrared laser. The lowest Stark level of the Er3+ ground state was used as a 36-cm-1 magnon and phonon detector in a quantum-counter scheme. A simple set of rate equations was used to model the system. The decay time was found to be 2.9+/-0.6 μs for 55-cm-1, 3+/-2 μs for 47.6-cm-1 magnons, and 40+/-20 ns for 36-cm-1 phonons. The sum of the 36-cm-1 magnon decay rate and the Er3+-magnon decay rate was 0.9+/-0.2 μs-1. Possible mechanisms of magnon decay are discussed. The dominant mechanism is most likely thermal magnon-magnon scattering. No evidence of large-wave-vector magnon decay to 36-cm-1 phonons was found. We suggest that magnons do not decay to phonons until they scatter into the magnetoelastic modes. Implications with respect to recent magnon-transport experiments are discussed.

A measurement of the vibrational band strength for the v3 band of the HO2 radical

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zahniser, M. S.; Stanton, A. C.

1984-01-01

Laboratory measurements of the v(3) band strength of HO2 using a tunable diode laser to measure the absorption strength of a vibration-rotation line in the P branch near 1080/cm are reported. The HO2 is generated in a discharge-flow system by reaction of fluorine atoms with excess H2O2: F + H2O2 - HO2 + HF. The HO2 concentration is determined from measurements of F-atom concentrations using both chemical titration with Cl2 and tunable diode laser absorption by the F-atom spin-orbit transition near 404/cm. The experimental data are consistent with a value of k(3) = (1.6 + or - 0.3) x 10 to the 12th cu cm/s and a ratio k(4)/k(1) = 1.0 + or - 0.4. The line strength for the 6(15) - 7(16)F(1) transition is 2.9 x 10 to the -21 sq cm/molecule/cm, which corresponds to a v(3) band strength of 35 + or - 9/sq cm/(STP atm). This value is a factor of 1.6 to 6 lower than previous ab initio calculations.

S-Wave Velocity Models Under the Saudi Arabian Portable Broadband Deployment: Evidence for Lithospheric Erosion Beneath the Arabian Shield

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Julià, J.; Ammon, C. J.; Herrmann, R. B.

2002-12-01

Models of crustal evolution strongly rely on our knowledge on the mineralogical composition of subsurface rocks, as well as pressure and temperature conditions. Direct sampling of subsurface rocks is often not possible, so that constraints have to be placed from indirect estimates of rock properties. Detailed seismic imaging of subsurface rocks has the potential for providing such constraints, and probe the extent at depth of surface geologic observations. In this study, we provide detailed S-wave velocity profiles for the crust and uppermost mantle beneath the Saudi Arabian Portable Broadband Deployment stations. Seismic velocities have been estimated from the joint inversion of receiver functions and fundamental mode group velocities. Receiver functions are sensitive to S-wave velocity contrasts and vertical travel times, and surface-wave dispersion is sensitive to vertical S-wave velocity averages, so that their combination bridge resolution gaps associated with each individual data set. Our resulting models correlate well with surface geology observations in the Arabian Shield and characterize its terranes at depth: the Asir terrane consists of a 10-km thick upper crust of 3.3~km/s overlying a lower crust with shear-wave velocities of 3.7-3.8 km/s; the Afif terrane is made of a 20-km thick upper crust with average velocity of 3.6 km/s and a lower crust with a shear-velocity of about 3.8~km/s; the Nabitah mobile belt has a gradational, 15-km thick upper crust up to 3.6 km/s overlying a gradational lower crust with velocities up to 4.0 km/s. The crust-mantle transition is sharper in terranes of continental affinity and more gradational beneath terranes of oceanic affinity. In the uppermost mantle, our models suggest a thin lid between up to 50-60 km depth overlying a low velocity zone beneath station TAIF, located close to a region of upwelling mantle material. Temperatures in the lid are estimated to be about 1000 C, which are in good agreement with independent xenolith data, and suggest that the lithosphere could be eroded to a thickness as little as 50~km under this station.

Thermal Properties of Soils.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-11-23

0,4 5 I0I - .. 0q-* ’ lA ’ ..... + .+c "+ I’ - ..... o- o.i ...... ,o, +, ,r,,, " + .. : - ’ Z oA - I I 3) U , m£.XISITING NVESTIGAT O t~f3I -- ~ j0...CM LU J -- CD_ _j W LUJ LA w w L&L j i" - ~ a &UCLU& c) I- LW CCD C-, .- I = i- -CC cm I ~. CIO) LU wo wU w-ou _ I_ z ~- = CM LU W CD J -CC -C 0...C Ca .4C~ -~ C4 a, a= Z - C. a :; C2 2__ LA Lw -A LLU 3M ’U - = K - ~~~_ L*~jJJhJ & un C.4 -u LU I CLO -A -L _ L C3 m 2I- LL = ’e =𔃾i 2 ac Ca _ - _J

The visible absorption spectrum of NO3 measured by high-resolution Fourier transform spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orphal, J.; Fellows, C. E.; Flaud, P.-M.

2003-02-01

The visible absorption spectrum of the nitrate radical NO3 has been measured using high-resolution Fourier transform spectroscopy. The spectrum was recorded at 294 K using a resolution of 0.6 cm-1 (corresponding to 0.026 nm at 662 nm) and covers the 12600-21500 cm-1 region (465-794 nm). Compared to absorption spectra of NO3 recorded previously, the new data show improvements concerning absolute wavelength calibration (uncertainty 0.02 cm-1), and spectral resolution. A new interpretation and model of the temperature dependence of the strong (0-0) band around 662 nm are proposed. The results are important for long-path tropospheric absorption measurements of NO3 and optical remote sensing of the Earth's atmosphere from space.

Dosimetric studies of cadmium free alloy used in compensator based intensity modulated radiotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaushik, Sandeep; Punia, Rajesh; Tyagi, Atul; Singh, Mann P.

2017-10-01

Aim of this study was to investigate dosimetric properties of cadmium free alloy which is used in compensator based intensity modulated radiotherapy (cIMRT). A mixture of lead, bismuth and tin was used to prepare the alloy whose melting point is 90-95 °C. Slabs of different thicknesses ranging from 0.71 cm to 6.14 cm were prepared. Density of alloy was measured by Archimedes' principle using water. For six megavolt (6 MV) photon beam energy transmission, linear effective attenuation coefficient (μeff), tissue phantom ratio (TPR1020), beam hardening, surface dose (Ds), percentage depth dose (PDD) and effect of scatter has been measured and analyzed for different field sizes and different thickness of compensator. Effect of extended source to detector distance (SDD) on transmissions and μeff was measured. The density of alloy was found to be 9.5456 g/cm3. At SDD of 100 cm, μeff was observed 0.4253 cm-1 for a field size of 10×10 cm 2. Calculated TPR1020 was found to be within 3% of experimental TPR1020 . It was found to be increasing with increasing thickness of compensator. Ds was found to decrease with thickness of compensator and increase with wider collimator opening due to increased scattered dose. Compensator slabs of 1 cm, 1.98 cm and 4.16 cm decreased surface dose by 4.2%, 6.1% and 9.5% respectively for a field size of 10×10 cm2 at 100 cm SDD. For small field size of 3×3 cm2 and 5×5 cm2 PDDs are increased from 3.0% to 5.5% of open beam PDDs as compensator thickness increased from 1 cm to 6.14 cm at a depth of 10 cm in water while variation in PDD is insignificant in for larger field sizes 10×10 cm2 to 20×20 cm2. A high degree of intensity modulation is essential in cIMRT and it can be achieved with this compensator material. Dosimetric properties analyzed in this study establish this alloy as a reliable, reusable, optimally dense and cost effective compensator material.

Development of composite ceramic materials with improved thermal conductivity and plasticity based on garnet-type oxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golovkina, L. S.; Orlova, A. I.; Boldin, M. S.; Sakharov, N. V.; Chuvil'deev, V. N.; Nokhrin, A. V.; Konings, R.; Staicu, D.

2017-06-01

Powders based on the complex garnet-type oxide Y2.5Nd0.5Al5O12 - x wt. % Ni (x = 0, 10, 20) were prepared using wet chemistry methods. Ceramics based on these compounds were obtained by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) with a relative densities: 99%. 4% (TD = 4.77 g/cm3 (0%)), 97.6% (TD = 4.88 g/cm3 (10%)), 94.4% (TD = 5.06 g/cm3 (20%)). The influence of nickel concentration on the mechanical (fracture toughness, microhardness) and thermophysical (thermal conductivity) properties of the composites was studied.

Resistance of Particleboards Made from Fast-Growing Wood Species to Subterranean Termite Attack

PubMed Central

Hermawan, Dede; Hadi, Yusuf S.; Fajriani, Esi.; Massijaya, Muhamad Y.; Hadjib, Nurwati

2012-01-01

Laboratory-made particleboards were tested for their resistance to subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus Holmgren (Order Isoptera, Family Termitidae) by Indonesian standard SNI 01.7207–2006, during four weeks and at the end of the test their mass loss percentage and feeding rate were determined. Particleboards consisted of: jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba, Family Rubiacea) with a density of 0.41 g/cm3; sungkai (Peronema canescens, Family Verbenaceae) with a density of 0.46 g/cm3; mangium (Acacia mangium, Family Rhamnaceae) with a density of 0.60 g/cm3 separately and the three species mixture at a rate of 1:1:1. Densities of the boards were targetted at 0.60 g/cm3 and 0.80 g/cm3 by using 12% urea formaldehyde as binder with 2% paraffin as additive based on oven dry wood particle weight. The hand-formed mats and hot-pressing at 130 °C and 2.45 MPa for 10 min were applied. The results showed that particleboards density did not affect mass loss and feeding rate, but the particleboards made from higher density wood resulted in higher resistance to subterranean termite attack. The most resistant particleboards were made of magium, followed by sungkai, mixed species, and jabon. PMID:26466542

SU-E-I-79: Source Geometry Dependence of Gamma Well-Counter Measurements

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

Park, M; Belanger, A; Kijewski, M

Purpose: To determine the effect of liquid sample volume and geometry on counting efficiency in a gamma well-counter, and to assess the relative contributions of sample geometry and self-attenuation. Gamma wellcounters are standard equipment in clinical and preclinical studies, for measuring patient blood radioactivity and quantifying animal tissue uptake for tracer development and other purposes. Accurate measurements are crucial. Methods: Count rates were measured for aqueous solutions of 99m- Tc at four liquid volume values in a 1-cm-diam tube and at six volume values in a 2.2-cm-diam vial. Total activity was constant for all volumes, and data were corrected formore » decay. Count rates from a point source in air, supported by a filter paper, were measured at seven heights between 1.3 and 5.7 cm from the bottom of a tube. Results: Sample volume effects were larger for the tube than for the vial. For the tube, count efficiency relative to a 1-cc volume ranged from 1.05 at 0.05 cc to 0.84 at 3 cc. For the vial, relative count efficiency ranged from 1.02 at 0.05 cc to 0.87 at 15 cc. For the point source, count efficiency relative to 1.3 cm from the tube bottom ranged from 0.98 at 1.8 cm to 0.34 at 5.7 cm. The relative efficiency of a 3-cc liquid sample in a tube compared to a 1-cc sample is 0.84; the average relative efficiency for the solid sample in air between heights in the tube corresponding to the surfaces of those volumes (1.3 and 4.8 cm) is 0.81, implying that the major contribution to efficiency loss is geometry, rather than attenuation. Conclusion: Volume-dependent correction factors should be used for accurate quantitation radioactive of liquid samples. Solid samples should be positioned at the bottom of the tube for maximum count efficiency.« less

Nitrogen Trifluoride (NF3) Oxidizer Systems Design Criteria

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-12-01

CM >rocncnf^r^. roenrs, CM CM C\\J c QJ c a» c cu .» TD cu -ü a; T) ra (i> ra 4) ra cu ex 3: cx a a 3 «* "et tr ^ -^ -* ^j- .j...t3 4* TD OJ TJ iaire<urea> re4ire4irea) ♦J -o 4-> -a 4-> -ü C 41 C 4> C 4) 4i T) 0) r» 4» "Ü *.’*-’*.■ +* -O +J X! *-> X> C C...T *j m ■* m p"» ^ 3gd p a ■*-* T3 +J "D -^ TT Oi "O 01 TD Q) 1* in 0. 3 a- 3 a. :* 3 ^ >— p- t rn n ci o> r *-J "O *-> "D *-* c O) c 0

Single crystal EPR, optical absorption and superposition model study of Cr3+ doped ammonium dihydrogen phosphate.

PubMed

Kripal, Ram; Pandey, Sangita

2010-06-01

The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies are carried out on Cr(3+) ion doped ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP) single crystals at room temperature. Four magnetically inequivalent sites for chromium are observed. No hyperfine structure is obtained. The crystal-field and spin Hamiltonian parameters are calculated from the resonance lines obtained at different angular rotations. The zero field and spin Hamiltonian parameters of Cr(3+) ion in ADP are calculated as: |D|=(257+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), |E|=(79+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), g=1.9724+/-0.0002 for site I; |D|=(257+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), |E|=(77+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), g=1.9727+/-0.0002 for site II; |D|=(259+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), |E|=(78+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), g=1.9733+/-0.0002 for site III; |D|=(259+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), |E|=(77+/-2) x 10(-4) cm(-1), g=1.973+/-0.0002 for site IV, respectively. The site symmetry of Cr(3+) doped single crystal is discussed on the basis of EPR data. The Cr(3+) ion enters the lattice substitutionally replacing the NH(4)(+) sites. The optical absorption spectra are recorded in 195-925 nm wavelength range at room temperature. The energy values of different orbital levels are determined. On the basis of EPR and optical data, the nature of bonding in the crystal is discussed. The calculated values of Racah interelectronic repulsion parameters (B and C), cubic crystal-field splitting parameter (D(q)) and nephelauxetic parameters (h and k) are: B=640, C=3070, D(q)=2067 cm(-1), h=1.44 and k=0.21, respectively. ZFS parameters are also determined using B(kq) parameters from superposition model. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multipolar radiofrequency ablation with internally cooled electrodes: experimental study in ex vivo bovine liver with mathematic modeling.

PubMed

Clasen, Stephan; Schmidt, Diethard; Boss, Andreas; Dietz, Klaus; Kröber, Stefan M; Claussen, Claus D; Pereira, Philippe L

2006-03-01

To evaluate the size and geometry of thermally induced coagulation by using multipolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation and to determine a mathematic model to predict coagulation volume. Multipolar RF ablations (n = 80) were performed in ex vivo bovine livers by using three internally cooled bipolar applicators with two electrodes on the same shaft. Applicators were placed in a triangular array (spacing, 2-5 cm) and were activated in multipolar mode (power output, 75-225 W). The size and geometry of the coagulation zone, together with ablation time, were assessed. Mathematic functions were fitted, and the goodness of fit was assessed by using r(2). Coagulation volume, short-axis diameter, and ablation time were dependent on power output and applicator distance. The maximum zone of coagulation (volume, 324 cm(3); short-axis diameter, 8.4 cm; ablation time, 193 min) was induced with a power output of 75 W at an applicator distance of 5 cm. Coagulation volume and ablation time decreased as power output increased. Power outputs of 100-125 W at applicator distances of 2-4 cm led to a reasonable compromise between coagulation volume and ablation time. At 2 cm (100 W), coagulation volume, short-axis diameter, and ablation time were 66 cm(3), 4.5 cm, and 19 min, respectively; at 3 cm (100 W), 90 cm(3), 5.2 cm, and 22 min, respectively; at 4 cm (100 W), 132 cm(3), 6.1 cm, and 27 min, respectively; at 2 cm (125 W), 56 cm(3), 4.2 cm, and 9 min, respectively; at 3 cm (125 W), 73 cm(3), 4.9 cm, and 12 min, respectively; and at 4 cm (125 W), 103 cm(3), 5.5 cm, and 16 min, respectively. At applicator distances of 4 cm (>125 W) and 5 cm (>100 W), the zones of coagulation were not confluent. Coagulation volume (r(2) = 0.80) and RF ablation time (r(2) = 0.93) were determined by using the mathematic model. Multipolar RF ablation with three bipolar applicators may produce large volumes of confluent coagulation ex vivo. A compromise is necessary between prolonged RF ablations at lower power outputs, which produce larger volumes of coagulation, and faster RF ablations at higher power outputs, which produce smaller volumes of coagulation. Copyright RSNA, 2006.

Gross anatomical and dimensional characteristics of the proximal hamstring origin.

PubMed

Feucht, Matthias J; Plath, Johannes E; Seppel, Gernot; Hinterwimmer, Stefan; Imhoff, Andreas B; Brucker, Peter U

2015-09-01

The current study was undertaken to better define the gross anatomical and dimensional characteristics of the proximal hamstring origin. Twelve paired whole-lower extremities from six embalmed cadavers were dissected. The gross anatomy of the proximal hamstrings was studied. With the tendons attached to the ischial tuberosity, the width and thickness of each tendon was measured 1 cm distally to their origin, and the distance from the most proximal border of the common origin of the semitendinosus (ST) and long head of the biceps (LB) to their distal junction was assessed. After removal of the hamstring group, the shape, orientation, and dimension of the tendon footprints were determined. One cadaver demonstrated unique anatomy, which was considered as an anatomic variant and was therefore excluded from the study group. The ST and LB had a common origin on the posterolateral aspect of the ischial tuberosity (ST/LB), whereas the semimembranosus (SM) had a separated origin at the anterolateral aspect. The mean distance from the most proximal border of the ST/LB origin to the distal junction was 10.0 ± 1.3 cm. The shape of both footprints was longitudinal-oval, with the longitudinal axes of the SM and ST/LB footprints parallel aligned. Mean tendon width was 3.4 ± 0.5 cm for the common ST/LB complex and 4.2 ± 0.9 cm for the SM (p = 0.009). The corresponding values for tendon thickness were 1.0 ± 0.3 cm (ST/LB) and 0.8 ± 0.2 cm (SM), respectively (n.s.). Mean footprint length was 3.9 ± 0.4 cm for ST/LB and 4.5 ± 0.5 cm for SM (p = 0.002). The corresponding values for footprint height were 1.4 ± 0.5 cm (ST/LB) and 1.2 ± 0.3 cm (SM), respectively (n.s.). The ST and LB had a common origin, whereas the SM originated separately. The site of origin of both tendons was the lateral aspect of the ischial tuberosity, with the SM footprint lying directly anterior to the footprint of the ST/LB complex. The footprint of the SM was significantly wider than the footprint of the ST/LB. The reported gross anatomic findings and dimensions may aid surgeons in anchor placement at the anatomical attachment site, thereby facilitating anatomic hamstring repair. In addition, the provided data may improve diagnosis and conservative treatment of proximal hamstring tendinopathy, since detailed knowledge about the normal anatomy is crucial for recognizing tendon abnormalities and for several conservative treatment modalities such as shockwave application or ultrasound-guided injections.

Amphiphilic ligand exchange reaction-induced supercapacitor electrodes with high volumetric and scalable areal capacitances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nam, Donghyeon; Heo, Yeongbeom; Cheong, Sanghyuk; Ko, Yongmin; Cho, Jinhan

2018-05-01

We introduce high-performance supercapacitor electrodes with ternary components prepared from consecutive amphiphilic ligand-exchange-based layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly among amine-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (NH2-MWCNTs) in alcohol, oleic acid-stabilized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (OA-Fe3O4 NPs) in toluene, and semiconducting polymers (PEDOT:PSS) in water. The periodic insertion of semiconducting polymers within the (OA-Fe3O4 NP/NH2-MWCNT)n multilayer-coated indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode enhanced the volumetric and areal capacitances up to 408 ± 4 F cm-3 and 8.79 ± 0.06 mF cm-2 at 5 mV s-1, respectively, allowing excellent cycling stability (98.8% of the initial capacitance after 5000 cycles) and good rate capability. These values were higher than those of the OA-Fe3O4 NP/NH2-MWCNT multilayered electrode without semiconducting polymer linkers (volumetric capacitance ∼241 ± 4 F cm-3 and areal capacitance ∼1.95 ± 0.03 mF cm-2) at the same scan rate. Furthermore, when the asymmetric supercapacitor cells (ASCs) were prepared using OA-Fe3O4 NP- and OA-MnO NP-based ternary component electrodes, they displayed high volumetric energy (0.36 mW h cm-3) and power densities (820 mW cm-3).

Association of Stimulant Medication Use With Bone Mass in Children and Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

PubMed

Feuer, Alexis J; Thai, Ashley; Demmer, Ryan T; Vogiatzi, Maria

2016-12-05

Murine studies reveal that sympathetic nervous system activation leads to decreased bone mass. Stimulant medications used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increase sympathetic tone and may affect bone remodeling. Because bone mass accrual is completed by young adulthood, assessing stimulant effects on bone density in growing children is of critical importance. To investigate associations between stimulant use and bone mass in children and adolescents. This cross-sectional analysis used data collected from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2010, from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. NHANES is a series of cross-sectional, nationally representative health and nutrition surveys of the US population. All children, adolescents, and young adults aged 8 to 20 years with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), anthropometric, demographic, and prescription medication use data were eligible for participation. Of the 6489 respondents included in the multivariable linear regression analysis, 159 were stimulant users and 6330 were nonusers. Data were analyzed from October 8, 2015, to December 31, 2016. Stimulant use, determined by questionnaires administered via interview. The association between stimulant use and total femur, femoral neck, and lumbar spine bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed using DXA. Study participants included 6489 NHANES participants with a mean (SD) age of 13.6 (3.6) years. Stimulant use was associated with lower bone mass after adjustment for covariates. Mean lumbar spine BMC was significantly lower in stimulant users vs nonusers (12.76 g; 95% CI, 12.28-13.27 g vs 13.38 g; 95% CI, 13.26-13.51 g; P = .02), as was mean lumbar spine BMD (0.90 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.87-0.94 g/cm2 vs 0.94 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.94-0.94 g/cm2; P = .03) and mean femoral neck BMC (4.34 g; 95% CI, 4.13-4.57 g vs 4.59 g; 95% CI, 4.56-4.62 g; P = .03). Mean BMD of the femoral neck (0.88 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.84-0.91 g/cm2 vs 0.91 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.90-0.91 g/cm2; P = .08) and total femur (0.94 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.90-0.99 g/cm2 vs 0.99 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.98-0.99 g/cm2; P = .05) were also lower in stimulant users vs nonusers. Participants treated with stimulants for 3 months or longer had significantly lower lumbar spine BMD (0.89 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.85-0.93 g/cm2 vs 0.94 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.94-0.94 g/cm2; P = .02) and BMC (12.71 g; 95% CI, 12.14-13.32 g vs 13.38 g; 95% CI, 13.25-13.51 g; P = .03) and femoral neck BMD (0.87 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.74-0.83 g/cm2 vs 0.91 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.83-0.84 g/cm2; P = .048) than nonusers. Children and adolescents reporting stimulant use had lower DXA measurements of the lumbar spine and femur compared with nonusers. These findings support the need for future prospective studies to examine the effects of stimulant use on bone mass in children.

Difference in the Surgical Outcome of Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Patients with and without Pre-Alveolar Bone Graft Orthodontic Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chun-Shin; Wallace, Christopher Glenn; Hsiao, Yen-Chang; Chiu, Yu-Ting; Pai, Betty Chien-Jung; Chen, I.-Ju; Liao, Yu-Fang; Liou, Eric Jen-Wein; Chen, Philip Kuo-Ting; Chen, Jyh-Ping; Noordhoff, M. Samuel

2016-04-01

Presurgical orthodontic treatment before secondary alveolar bone grafting (SABG) is widely performed for cleft lip/palate patients. However, no randomized controlled trial has been published comparing SABG outcomes in patients with, and without, presurgical orthodontic treatment. This randomized, prospective, single-blinded trial was conducted between January 2012 and April 2015 to compare ABG volumes 6 months postoperatively between patients with and without presurgical orthodontic treatment. Twenty-four patients were enrolled and randomized and 22 patients completed follow-up. Patients who had presurgical orthodontics before SABG had significantly improved inclination (p < 0.001) and rotation (p < 0.001) of the central incisor adjacent to the defect, significantly improved ABG fill volume (0.81 ± 0.26 cm3 at 6 months compared to 0.59 ± 0.22 cm3 p < 0.05) and less residual alveolar bone defect (0.31 ± 0.08 cm3 at 6 months compared to s 0.55 ± 0.14 cm3 p < 0.001) compared to patients who did not have presurgical orthodontic treatment. In conclusion, orthodontic treatment combined with SABG results in superior bone volume when compared with conventional SABG alone.

Establishing Normative Reference Values for Standing Broad Jump Among Hungarian Youth.

PubMed

Saint-Maurice, Pedro F; Laurson, Kelly R; Kaj, Mónika; Csányi, Tamás

2015-06-26

The purpose of this study was to examine age and sex trends in anaerobic power assessed by a standing broad jump and to determine norm-referenced values for youth in Hungary. A sample of 2,427 Hungarian youth (1,360 boys and 1,067 girls) completed the standing broad jump twice, and the highest distance score was recorded. Quantile regression was used to fit standing broad jump trends across linear and quadratic functions of age. Statistical significance was determined with bootstrap confidence intervals and the Wald test with p < .05. Age-by-sex specific centiles were generated and the 50th percentile was used to describe the overall patterns. Standing broad jump scores increased steadily in boys from age 11 through 18 years with a discrete plateau at the end of adolescence. Girls' standing broad jump scores of those who performed above the median increased with age and plateaued later in the adolescence. Both linear and quadratic age terms were statistically significant predictors of standing broad jump trends across age (p < .05), but the relations varied depending on the percentile. The 50th percentile values resulted in 147.0 cm, 162.0 cm, 175.0 cm, 186.0 cm, 195.0 cm, 202.0 cm, 207.0 cm, and 210.0 cm for boys aged 11 to 18 years old, respectively, and 140.0 cm, 143.9 cm, 147.3 cm, 150.0 cm, 152.1 cm, 153.7 cm, 154.6 cm, and 155.0 cm for girls aged 11 to 18 years old, respectively. This study provides normative reference charts that take into account age and sex differences in standing broad jump performance. The proposed reference values can be used to interpret standing broad jump scores in Hungarian youth.

[Soy isoflavones with supplemental calcium provide protection against the loss of bone mass and influence insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I after ovariectomy in rat].

PubMed

Cheng, Mao-wei; Liu, Jia-fa; Yi, Guo-qin; Zhang, Xi-ping; Zhu, Qing-hua; Liu, Lie-gang

2006-09-01

To compare the effects of soy isoflavone with supplemental calcium to soy isoflavone or Ca alone on preservation of bone mineral density (BMD) and the expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I. Sprague-Dawley (SD) female Rats, 6 months old, were ovariectomized and randomized into five groups: sham-operated group (n = 10) or ovx (n = 40) group. Shams were fed a 3.272 g/kg Ca diet. Ovx rats were randomized to a 3.272 g/kg Ca diet alone (OVX) or with soy isoflavone (SI) extract (37.95 mg/kg.bw) or to a supplemental Ca diet (Ca, 4.676 g/kg) alone or a supplemental Ca diet with the isoflavone extract (SI + Ca) for 12 weeks. BMD of femur was measured by scanner of bone mineral density. The level of IGF-1 mRNA expression was measured by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. There was no significant difference between group Sham (0.267 +/- 0.008) and group SI + Ca (0.263 +/- 0.007) g/cm(2) (P > 0.05) on femur BMD of distal end. Femur BMD of distal end in group Sham and group SI + Ca was greater (P < 0.05) as compared to group OVX (0.245 +/- 0.005) g/cm(2), SI (0.258 +/- 0.011) g/cm(2) or Ca (0.255 +/- 0.004) g/cm(2), P < 0.05. The liver tissue IGF-1 mRNA contents (IGF-1 cDNA/B-actin cDNA) were significantly decreased in group Sham (0.200 +/- 0.023) g/cm(2), SI (0.278 +/- 0.019) g/cm(2), Ca (0.302 +/- 0.026) g/cm(2) or SI + Ca (0.231 +/- 0.025) g/cm(2) as compared to group OVX (0.362 +/- 0.031) g/cm(2), P < 0.05; The liver tissue IGF-1 mRNA contents (IGF-1 cDNA/B-actin cDNA) were significantly decreased in group SI + Ca (0.231 +/- 0.025) g/cm(2) compared to group SI (0.278 +/- 0.019) g/cm(2) and Ca (0.302 +/- 0.026) g/cm(2), P < 0.05. Soy isoflavones combined with supplemental Ca are more protective against the loss of femur BMD than soy isoflavones or supplemental Ca diet alone. The dose of SI (37.95 mg/kg.bw) might significantly restrain the rising of the liver tissue IGF-1 mRNA contents caused by ovariectomy.

Evaluation of anticorrosion and antifouling paint performance after exposure under seawater Surabaya-Madura (Suramadu) bridge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nuraini, Lutviasari; Prifiharni, Siska; Priyotomo, Gadang; Sundjono, Gunawan, Hadi

2017-03-01

Antifouling paints are used widely to coat the underwater structures to prevent various fouling organisms. The evaluation of the performance for the two commercial anticorrosion and antifouling paints was carried out in the piles of Suramadu Bridge, East Java during 1 month exposure. The 20 cm width × 25 cm high × 0.3 cm thick specimens of mild steel were sandblasted and coated by anticorrosion and antifouling paint. Blank specimen (without exposed) were also prepared as a control. On the other hand, the 7.5 cm width × 15 cm high × 0.3 cm thick specimen bare mild steel was prepared for measure the corrosion rate throught weight loss method. The test panels containing specimens were exposure up to 1 month for immersion in splash zone and tidal zone (0, 1, 3, meters from sea level). Sea water parameters consisting of temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity and dissolved oxygen (DO) were also measured. The thickness, glossy, hardness and adhesion strength of the coating performance were carried out. The results show that both surfaces of anticorrosive paint and bare mild steel specimen covered by fouling organisms, whereas no fouling took place on the surface of antifouling paint. The corrosion rate of bare mild steel in the 0, 1, and 3 meters are 15.1;13.7 and 17.0 mpy, respectively.

Ultrasensitive Infrared Chemiluminescence Detection

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-10-01

avelengt (14M) 2.01 1 NO Fundamental (Av-2) 2-0 3-1 S1.0 N(WA.fl Ŕ 4-1 5-2 0.0 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 Wavelength (urn) 42 NX -in Nowo cc E 0 Imt 𔃺 poz ow...2 p _4S) 347 nm INTENSITY AS A FUNCTION OF [N( 2 P)] T-5216 3.0 2.5 - 2.0- •. 1.5’- 0. S1.0 0.5 0.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 [N(2P)J (1011 atoms cm-3) 8-74M...observing the forbidden N( 2P- 4S) emission at 347 nm. The rate coefficient for N(ZP) quenching by 02 is (2.2 *0.4) x 10 cm3 molecule-I s-I and that

Right ventricular and pulmonary arterial dimensions in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta.

PubMed

Radunovic, Zoran; Wekre, Lena L; Steine, Kjetil

2012-06-15

We examined right ventricular (RV) and ascending pulmonary artery (PA1) dimensions in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). The survey included 99 adults with OI divided in 3 clinical types (I, III, and IV) and 52 controls. RV and PA1 dimensions were measured by echocardiography and indexed for body surface area. Scoliosis was registered, and spirometry was performed in 75 patients with OI. All RV dimensions indexed by body surface area were significantly larger in the OI group compared to controls (RV basal dimension 1.9 ± 0.5 vs 1.7 ± 0.3 cm/m(2), p <0.05; RV midcavity dimension 1.7 ± 0.5 vs 1.5 ± 0.3 cm/m(2), p <0.05; RV longitudinal dimension 4.3 ± 1.1 vs 4.0 ± 0.9 cm/m(2), p <0.05). RV outflow tract (RVOT) proximal diameter (1.8 ± 0.4 vs 1.5 ± 0.2 cm/m(2), p <0.05), RVOT distal diameter (1.2 ± 0.2 vs 1.0 ± 0.1 cm/m(2), p <0.05), and PA1 (1.2 ± 0.3 vs 1.0 ± 0.2 cm/m(2), p <0.05) were also significantly larger in the OI group. Furthermore, all RV dimensions and PA1 were significantly larger in patients with OI type III compared to patients with OI types I and IV and controls. There were no differences in RV, RVOT, or PA1 dimensions between patients presenting a restrictive ventilatory pattern (n = 11) and patients a normal ventilatory pattern. Scoliosis was registered in 42 patients. Patients with OI type III had greater RV and PA1 dimensions compared to controls and patients with OI types I and IV. Impaired ventilatory patterns and scoliosis did not have any impact on RV dimensions in these patients. In conclusion, patients with OI had increased RV and PA1 dimensions compared to the control group. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Concurrent measurements of size-segregated particulate sulfate, nitrate and ammonium using quartz fiber filters, glass fiber filters and cellulose membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Shili; Pan, Yuepeng; Wang, Jian; Wang, Yuesi

2016-11-01

Current science and policy requirements have focused attention on the need to expand and improve particulate matter (PM) sampling methods. To explore how sampling filter type affects artifacts in PM composition measurements, size-resolved particulate SO42-, NO3- and NH4+ (SNA) were measured on quartz fiber filters (QFF), glass fiber filters (GFF) and cellulose membranes (CM) concurrently in an urban area of Beijing on both clean and hazy days. The results showed that SNA concentrations in most of the size fractions exhibited the following patterns on different filters: CM > QFF > GFF for NH4+; GFF > QFF > CM for SO42-; and GFF > CM > QFF for NO3-. The different patterns in coarse particles were mainly affected by filter acidity, and that in fine particles were mainly affected by hygroscopicity of the filters (especially in size fraction of 0.65-2.1 μm). Filter acidity and hygroscopicity also shifted the peaks of the annual mean size distributions of SNA on QFF from 0.43-0.65 μm on clean days to 0.65-1.1 μm on hazy days. However, this size shift was not as distinct for samples measured with CM and GFF. In addition, relative humidity (RH) and pollution levels are important factors that can enhance particulate size mode shifts of SNA on clean and hazy days. Consequently, the annual mean size distributions of SNA had maxima at 0.65-1.1 μm for QFF samples and 0.43-0.65 μm for GFF and CM samples. Compared with NH4+ and SO42-, NO3- is more sensitive to RH and pollution levels, accordingly, the annual mean size distribution of NO3- exhibited peak at 0.65-1.1 μm for CM samples instead of 0.43-0.65 μm. These methodological uncertainties should be considered when quantifying the concentrations and size distributions of SNA under different RH and haze conditions.

Catheter orifice configuration influences the effectiveness of continuous peripheral nerve blockade.

PubMed

Fredrickson, Michael J; Ball, Craig M; Dalgleish, Adam J

2011-01-01

We investigated perineural catheter threading distance and orifice configuration during continuous interscalene analgesia. One hundred fifty-three patients receiving an anterolateral interscalene catheter (catheter needle and nerve/plexus in a similar alignment) for elective shoulder surgery were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: following out-of-plane ultrasound confirmation of the needle tip immediately lateral to the C5/6 roots, a nonstimulating catheter was blindly advanced 0.5 cm (end-hole; n = 50), 2.5 cm (multiorifice; n = 50) or 5 cm (multiorifice; n = 53) beyond the needle tip. Ropivacaine 0.75% + lidocaine 1% (50:50) 20 mL was administered preoperatively via the catheter before surgery under general anesthesia. A ropivacaine 0.2% 2 mL/hr elastomeric infusion with mandatory 6 hourly (and on demand) 5-mL boluses was continued for more than 48 hrs with tramadol available as rescue. Patients were questioned in the recovery room, at 24 and 48 hrs for numerical rating pain score (0-10), ropivacaine bolus, and tramadol consumption. Patients were more frequently pain-free in the recovery room in the multiorifice 2.5 and 5 cm groups compared with the end-hole 0.5 cm group (94%, 91% vs 66%; P < 0.001). During the first 24 hrs, the end-hole group demonstrated an earlier time to first pain (median, 10 vs17, 15 hrs; P < 0.001), higher "average pain" (median, 3 vs 1, 2, P = 0.004), and more ropivacaine bolus (median, 5 vs 3, 3; P < 0.001) and tramadol consumption (P = 0.01). Groups 2.5 and 5 cm did not significantly differ in any outcomes. These results suggest that multiorifice catheters provide superior intermittent bolus continuous peripheral nerve blockade compared with end-hole catheters. For anterolateral approach interscalene catheter placement, there is minimal benefit, either way, to 2.5- or 5-cm blind catheter advancement.

Fluorine doping: a feasible solution to enhancing the conductivity of high-resistance wide bandgap Mg0.51Zn0.49O active components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lishu; Mei, Zengxia; Hou, Yaonan; Liang, Huili; Azarov, Alexander; Venkatachalapathy, Vishnukanthan; Kuznetsov, Andrej; Du, Xiaolong

2015-10-01

N-type doping of high-resistance wide bandgap semiconductors, wurtzite high-Mg-content MgxZn1-xO for instance, has always been a fundamental application-motivated research issue. Herein, we report a solution to enhancing the conductivity of high-resistance Mg0.51Zn0.49O active components, which has been reliably achieved by fluorine doping via radio-frequency plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxial growth. Fluorine dopants were demonstrated to be effective donors in Mg0.51Zn0.49O single crystal film having a solar-blind 4.43 eV bandgap, with an average concentration of 1.0 × 1019 F/cm3.The dramatically increased carrier concentration (2.85 × 1017 cm-3 vs ~1014 cm-3) and decreased resistivity (129 Ω · cm vs ~106 Ω cm) indicate that the electrical properties of semi-insulating Mg0.51Zn0.49O film can be delicately regulated by F doping. Interestingly, two donor levels (17 meV and 74 meV) associated with F were revealed by temperature-dependent Hall measurements. A Schottky type metal-semiconductor-metal ultraviolet photodetector manifests a remarkably enhanced photocurrent, two orders of magnitude higher than that of the undoped counterpart. The responsivity is greatly enhanced from 0.34 mA/W to 52 mA/W under 10 V bias. The detectivity increases from 1.89 × 109 cm Hz1/2/W to 3.58 × 1010 cm Hz1/2/W under 10 V bias at room temperature.These results exhibit F doping serves as a promising pathway for improving the performance of high-Mg-content MgxZn1-xO-based devices.

Ketorolac for Pain Control With Intrauterine Device Placement: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Ngo, Lynn L.; Ward, Kristy K.; Mody, Sheila K.

2015-01-01

Objective To evaluate intramuscular ketorolac compared to placebo saline injection for pain control with intrauterine device (IUD) placement. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial between July 2012 and March 2014. Patients received ketorolac 30mg or placebo saline intramuscular injection 30 minutes prior to IUD placement. The primary outcome was pain with IUD placement on a 10cm visual analog scale (VAS). Sample size was calculated to provide 80% power to show a 2.0cm difference (α=0.05) in the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included pain with study drug injection, speculum insertion, tenaculum placement, uterine sounding, and at 5 and 15 minutes after IUD placement. Results A total of 67 women participated in the study, 33 in the ketorolac arm and 34 in the placebo arm. There were no differences in baseline demographics including age, BMI, and race. There were no differences in median pain scores for IUD placement in the placebo versus ketorolac groups (5.2cm vs 3.6cm, p=0.99). There was a decrease in median pain scores at 5 minutes (2.2cm vs 0.3cm, p=<0.001) and 15 minutes (1.6cm vs 0.1cm, p=<0.001) after IUD placement but no difference for all other time points. Nulliparous participants (n=16, 8 per arm) had a decrease in pain scores with IUD placement (8.1cm vs 5.4cm, p=0.02). In this study, 22% of participants in the placebo group and 18% in the ketorolac group reported injection pain was as painful as IUD placement. Conclusions Ketorolac does not reduce pain with IUD placement but does reduce pain at 5 and 15 minutes after placement. PMID:26241253

Soft tissue volume alterations after connective tissue grafting at teeth: the subepithelial autologous connective tissue graft versus a porcine collagen matrix - a pre-clinical volumetric analysis.

PubMed

Schmitt, Christian M; Matta, Ragai E; Moest, Tobias; Humann, Julia; Gammel, Lisa; Neukam, Friedrich W; Schlegel, Karl A

2016-07-01

This study evaluates a porcine collagen matrix (CM) for soft tissue thickening in comparison to the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG). In eight beagle dogs, soft tissue thickening was performed at the buccal aspects of the upper canines (SCTG and CM). Impressions were taken before augmentation (i1), after surgery (i2), after one (i3), three (i4) and ten month (i5). Casts were optically scanned with a 3D scanner and each augmented region (unit of analysis) evaluated (primary outcome variable: volume increase in mm(3) ; secondary outcome variables: volume increase in percent, mean and maximum thickness increases in mm). 3D tissue measurements after surgery revealed a significant higher volume increase in the CM (86.37 mm(3)  ± 35.16 mm(3) ) than in the SCTG group (47.65 mm(3)  ± 17.90 mm(3) ). After 10 months, volume increase was non-significant between groups (SCTG:11.36 mm(3)  ± 9.26 mm(3) ; CM: 8.67 mm(3)  ± 13.67 mm(3) ). Maximum soft tissue thickness increase (i1-i5) was 0.66 mm ± 0.29 mm (SCTG) and 0.79 mm ± 0.37 mm (CM) with no significant difference. Ten months after soft tissue thickening, the CM is statistically non-inferior to the SCTG in terms of soft tissue volume and thickness increase. Further 3D studies are needed to confirm the data. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Ion transport across an isolated preparation of sheep rumen epithelium

PubMed Central

Ferreira, H. G.; Harrison, F. A.; Keynes, R. D.; Zurich, L.

1972-01-01

1. The fluxes of isotopically labelled sodium, potassium and chloride passing in each direction across isolated sheets of rumen epithelium from the sheep have been measured under short-circuit conditions. 2. With both sides of the epithelium bathed in chloride Ringer the mean sodium fluxes were 2·85 μmole/cm2.hr from rumen to blood and 1·28 μmole/cm2.hr in the reverse direction. In sulphate Ringer the sodium fluxes were 1·64 μmole/cm2.hr from rumen to blood and 0·54 μmole/cm2.hr from blood to rumen. 3. In chloride Ringer the mean potassium fluxes were 0·18 μmole/cm2.hr from rumen to blood and 0·54 μmole/cm2.hr from blood to rumen. In sulphate Ringer the potassium fluxes were 0·07 μmole/cm2.hr from rumen to blood and 0·35 μmole/cm2.hr from blood to rumen. 4. In chloride Ringer the mean chloride fluxes were 4·89 μmole/cm2.hr from rumen to blood and 3·78 μmole/cm2.hr from blood to rumen. 5. In chloride Ringer the mean value of the short-circuit current was 13 μA/cm2, corresponding to a flux of 0·49 μequiv/cm2.hr. When sulphate was substituted for chloride, the short-circuit current was increased by about 40%, and the net flux of sodium from rumen to blood fell by 30%. 6. Neither the sodium nor the chloride fluxes changed significantly when the epithelium was temporarily open-circuited. PMID:5037110

Spatial orientation and mechanical properties of the human trachea: a computed tomography study.

PubMed

Zanella, Alberto; Cressoni, Massimo; Ferlicca, Daniela; Chiurazzi, Chiara; Epp, Myra; Rovati, Cristina; Chiumello, Davide; Pesenti, Antonio; Gattinoni, Luciano; Kolobow, Theodor

2015-04-01

The literature generally describes the trachea as oriented toward the right and back, but there is very little detailed characterization. Therefore, the aim of this study was to precisely determine the spatial orientation and to better characterize the physical properties of the human trachea. We analyzed lung computed tomography scans of 68 intubated and mechanically ventilated subjects suffering from acute lung injury/ARDS at airway pressures (Paw) of 5, 15, and 45 cm H2O. At each Paw, the inner edge of the trachea from the subglottal space to the carina was captured. Tracheal length and diameter were measured. Tracheal orientation and compliance were estimated from processing barycenter and surface tracheal sections. Tracheal orientation at a Paw of 5 cm H2O showed a 4.2 ± 5.3° angle toward the right and a 20.6 ± 6.9° angle downward toward the back, which decreased significantly while increasing Paw (19.4 ± 6.9° at 15 cm H2O and 17.1 ± 6.8° at 45 cm H2O, P < .001). Tracheal compliance was 0.0113 ± 0.0131 mL/cm H2O/cm of trachea length from 5 to 15 cm H2O and 0.004 ± 0.0041 mL/cm H2O/cm of trachea length from 15 to 45 cm H2O (P < .001). Tracheal diameter was 19.6 ± 3.4 mm on the medial-lateral axis and 21.0 ± 4.3 mm on the sternal-vertebral axis. The trachea is oriented downward toward the back at a 20.6 ± 6.9° angle and slightly toward the right at a 4.2 ± 5.3° angle. Understanding tracheal orientation may help in enhancing postural drainage and respiratory physiotherapy, and knowing the physical properties of the trachea may aid in endotracheal tube cuff design. Copyright © 2015 by Daedalus Enterprises.

Impact of 2-staged stereotactic radiosurgery for treatment of brain metastases ≥ 2 cm.

PubMed

Angelov, Lilyana; Mohammadi, Alireza M; Bennett, Elizabeth E; Abbassy, Mahmoud; Elson, Paul; Chao, Samuel T; Montgomery, Joshua S; Habboub, Ghaith; Vogelbaum, Michael A; Suh, John H; Murphy, Erin S; Ahluwalia, Manmeet S; Nagel, Sean J; Barnett, Gene H

2017-09-22

OBJECTIVE Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the primary modality for treating brain metastases. However, effective radiosurgical control of brain metastases ≥ 2 cm in maximum diameter remains challenging and is associated with suboptimal local control (LC) rates of 37%-62% and an increased risk of treatment-related toxicity. To enhance LC while limiting adverse effects (AEs) of radiation in these patients, a dose-dense treatment regimen using 2-staged SRS (2-SSRS) was used. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of this treatment strategy. METHODS Fifty-four patients (with 63 brain metastases ≥ 2 cm) treated with 2-SSRS were evaluated as part of an institutional review board-approved retrospective review. Volumetric measurements at first-stage stereotactic radiosurgery (first SSRS) and second-stage SRS (second SSRS) treatments and on follow-up imaging studies were determined. In addition to patient demographic data and tumor characteristics, the study evaluated 3 primary outcomes: 1) response at first follow-up MRI, 2) time to local progression (TTP), and 3) overall survival (OS) with 2-SSRS. Response was analyzed using methods for binary data, TTP was analyzed using competing-risks methods to account for patients who died without disease progression, and OS was analyzed using conventional time-to-event methods. When needed, analyses accounted for multiple lesions in the same patient. RESULTS Among 54 patients, 46 (85%) had 1 brain metastasis treated with 2-SSRS, 7 patients (13%) had 2 brain metastases concurrently treated with 2-SSRS, and 1 patient underwent 2-SSRS for 3 concurrent brain metastases ≥ 2 cm. The median age was 63 years (range 23-83 years), 23 patients (43%) had non-small cell lung cancer, and 14 patients (26%) had radioresistant tumors (renal or melanoma). The median doses at first and second SSRS were 15 Gy (range 12-18 Gy) and 15 Gy (range 12-15 Gy), respectively. The median duration between stages was 34 days, and median tumor volumes at the first and second SSRS were 10.5 cm 3 (range 2.4-31.3 cm 3 ) and 7.0 cm 3 (range 1.0-29.7 cm 3 ). Three-month follow-up imaging results were available for 43 lesions; the median volume was 4.0 cm 3 (range 0.1-23.1 cm 3 ). The median change in volume compared with baseline was a decrease of 54.9% (range -98.2% to 66.1%; p < 0.001). Overall, 9 lesions (14.3%) demonstrated local progression, with a median of 5.2 months (range 1.3-7.4 months), and 7 (11.1%) demonstrated AEs (6.4% Grade 1 and 2 toxicity; 4.8% Grade 3). The estimated cumulative incidence of local progression at 6 months was 12% ± 4%, corresponding to an LC rate of 88%. Shorter TTP was associated with greater tumor volume at baseline (p = 0.01) and smaller absolute (p = 0.006) and relative (p = 0.05) decreases in tumor volume from baseline to second SSRS. Estimated OS rates at 6 and 12 months were 65% ± 7% and 49% ± 8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS 2-SSRS is an effective treatment modality that resulted in significant reduction of brain metastases ≥ 2 cm, with excellent 3-month (95%) and 6-month (88%) LC rates and an overall AE rate of 11%. Prospective studies with larger cohorts and longer follow-up are necessary to assess the durability and toxicities of 2-SSRS.

Abdominal exploration in captive collared peccaries (Tayassu tajacu) by ultrasonography.

PubMed

Peixoto, G C X; Oliveira, I R S; Alves, N D; Oliveira, M F; Silva, A R

2012-08-01

This study determines the morphology and ultrasound features of the abdominal organs in male, nestling and healthy collared peccaries. The bladder wall is hyperechogenic, with a thickness of 0.2 ± 0.08 cm. The kidneys present a well-defined cortex, medulla and pelvis, and the dimensions are 2.56 ± 0.3 × 4.6 ± 0.8 cm for the left and 2.51 ± 0.4 × 4.86 ± 1.1 cm for the right kidney. The spleen has a uniform echotexture over its entire surface. The largest dimensions of the liver are 2.0 ± 0.57 cm for the left lobe and 1.42 ± 0.66 cm for the caudate lobe. The liver presents a homogeneous echotexture in the majority of cases, but sometimes some hyperechoic spots are present. The stomach wall has a thickness of 0.42 ± 0.28 cm. The bowel loops show alternate hyperechoic and hypoechoic layers with a uniform diameter and a wall thickness of 0.19 ± 0.07 cm. © 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Optical emission spectroscopy of carbon laser plasma ion source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balki, Oguzhan; Rahman, Md. Mahmudur; Elsayed-Ali, Hani E.

2018-04-01

Carbon laser plasma generated by an Nd:YAG laser (wavelength 1064 nm, pulse width 7 ns, fluence 4-52 J cm-2) is studied by optical emission spectroscopy and ion time-of-flight. Up to C4+ ions are detected with the ion flux strongly dependent on the laser fluence. The increase in ion charge with the laser fluence is accompanied by observation of multicharged ion lines in the optical spectra. The time-integrated electron temperature Te is calculated from the Boltzmann plot using the C II lines at 392.0, 426.7, and 588.9 nm. Te is found to increase from ∼0.83 eV for a laser fluence of 22 J cm-2 to ∼0.90 eV for 40 J cm-2. The electron density ne is obtained from the Stark broadened profiles of the C II line at 392 nm and is found to increase from ∼ 2 . 1 × 1017cm-3 for 4 J cm-2 to ∼ 3 . 5 × 1017cm-3 for 40 J cm-2. Applying an external electric field parallel to the expanding plume shows no effect on the line emission intensities. Deconvolution of ion time-of-flight signal with a shifted Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution for each charge state results in an ion temperature Ti ∼4.7 and ∼6.0 eV for 20 and 36 J cm-2, respectively.

Impact of East Asian Summer Monsoon on Surface Ozone Pattern in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shu; Wang, Tijian; Huang, Xing; Pu, Xi; Li, Mengmeng; Chen, Pulong; Yang, Xiu-Qun; Wang, Minghuai

2018-01-01

Tropospheric ozone plays a key role in regional and global atmospheric and climate systems. In East Asia, ozone can be affected both in concentration level and spatial pattern by typical monsoon climate. This paper uses three different indices to identify the strength of East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) and explores the possible impact of EASM intensity on the ozone pattern through synthetic and process analysis. The difference in ozone between three strong and three weak monsoon years was analyzed using the simulations from regional climate model RegCM4-Chem. It was found that EASM intensity can significantly influence the spatial distribution of ozone in the lower troposphere. When EASM is strong, ozone in the eastern part of China (28°N - 42° N) is reduced, but the inverse is detected in the north and south. The surface ozone difference ranges from -7 to 7 ppbv during the 3 months (June to August) of the EASM, with the most obvious difference in August. Difference of the 3 months' average ozone ranges from -3.5 to 4 ppbv. Process analysis shows that the uppermost factor controlling ozone level during summer monsoon seasons is the chemistry process. Interannual variability of EASM can impact the spatial distribution of ozone through wind in the lower troposphere, cloud cover, and downward shortwave radiation, which affect the transport and chemical formation of ozone. The phenomenon should be addressed when considering the interaction between ozone and the climate in East Asia region.

On the enhancement of energy storage density in Bi0.9Ho0.1FeO3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ethilton, S. John; Rajesh, R.; Ramachandran, K.; Giridharan, N. V.

2018-04-01

Polycrystalline Bi1-xHoxFeO3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1) samples are prepared by conventional solid state route. The XRD pattern shows R3c phase. The maximum electrical polarizations in the above three materials are found to be 0.067μC / cm2, 0.329μC / cm2 and 0.565μC / cm2 respectively. Here the holmium is chosen for the reason that the leakage current can be reduced very much thereby the multiferroic property can be enhanced. Based on this experience it is decided to study the energy storage density in these ceramic materials with Ho as dopant. It is found that there is a good enhancement from 12% to 30% efficiency on energy storage density.

KSC-2014-3665

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. They are being swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3664

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. They are being swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3667

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. They are being swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3668

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The swing arm is undergoing a test to confirm that it is operating correcting. During the test, the arm was swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3663

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. They are being swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

KSC-2014-3666

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-08-25

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The umbilical swing arm for Orion's Exploration Flight Test 1, or EFT-1, has been attached to the uppermost location on the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. All three swing arms on the tower are undergoing tests to confirm that they are operating correctly. They are being swung out and closer to the Vertical Integration Facility at the pad. The uppermost swing arm will carry umbilicals that will be mated to Orion's launch abort system and environmental control system. During launch, all three umbilicals will pull away from Orion and the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket at T-0. During the EFT-1 mission, Orion will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The data gathered during the flight will influence design decisions, validate existing computer models and innovative new approaches to space systems development, as well as reduce overall mission risks and costs for later Orion flights. Liftoff of Orion on its first flight test is planned for fall 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper

X-ray surface dose measurements using TLD extrapolation.

PubMed

Kron, T; Elliot, A; Wong, T; Showell, G; Clubb, B; Metcalfe, P

1993-01-01

Surface dose measurements in therapeutic x-ray beams are of importance in determining the dose to the skin of patients undergoing radiotherapy. Measurements were performed in the 6-MV beam of a medical linear accelerator with LiF thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD) using a solid water phantom. TLD chips (surface area 3.17 x 3.17 cm2) of three different thicknesses (0.230, 0.099, and 0.038 g/cm2) were used to extrapolate dose readings to an infinitesimally thin layer of LiF. This surface dose was measured for field sizes ranging from 1 x 1 cm2 to 40 x 40 cm2. The surface dose relative to maximum dose was found to be 10.0% for a field size of 5 x 5 cm2, 16.3% for 10 x 10 cm2, and 26.9% for 20 x 20 cm2. Using a 6-mm Perspex block tray in the beam increased the surface dose in these fields to 10.7%, 17.7%, and 34.2% respectively. Due to the small size of the TLD chips, TLD extrapolation is applicable also for intracavity and exit dose determinations. The technique used for in vivo dosimetry could provide clinicians information about the build up of dose up to 1-mm depth in addition to an extrapolated surface dose measurement.

Endolithic diversity of microorganisms on sandstone and implications for biogenic weathering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hallmann, C.; Friedenberger, H.; Hoppert, M.

2012-04-01

Molecular methods allow a comprehensive view on uncultured microbial communities in dimension stone. In the presented study, we focus on depth profiles of microbial colonization in sandstones with different porosity and overall durability. All sandstones were taken from quarries where they were exposed to the environment for several years. Approximately 0.1 g of material from the stone surface, from 5 mm and from 30 mm depths was taken under sterile conditions and subjected to analysis of microbial DNA and culturing experiments. In particular, DNA was extracted from the material, the phylogenetic marker gene of eukaryotic organisms (18S rDNA) was amplified and used for generation of clone libraries, which were then analysed by sequencing. "Roter Wesersandstein" was just colonized at the material surface, predominantly with algal and fungal microorganisms. No environmental DNA could be isolated from depth profiles. From "Nebraer Sandstein" with high pore size (shown by thin sections), environmental DNA from depths down to 3 cm could be retrieved. Though the uppermost layer is dominated by microalgae (as concluded from the retrieved clones), the percentage of algal clones from 5 mm and 30 mm depths drop to 10 % of all clones. There, apart from filamentous fungi, moss clones clearly dominate the microbial community. At a depth of 30 mm, 70-80 % of the retrieved clones match to various mosses (Bryophyta). Though mosses do not form layers on the stone surfaces, moss rhizoids or protonemata must be abundant as endoliths inside the stone material. It is reasonable to assume that the rhizoids may contribute to an increase in pore size by active penetration of the clastic material, even though colonization of the surface by mosses is not obvious. This feature may imply stronger impact of stone decay induced by endolithic growth of bryophytes than hitherto observed.

Muscular adaptations to depth jump plyometric training: Comparison of sand vs. land surface

PubMed Central

Arazi, Hamid; Mohammadi, Mahdi

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of plyometric training on sand vs. land surface on muscular performance adaptations in men. Fourteen healthy men were randomly assigned to two training groups: a) Sand Depth Jump (SDJ; N = 7) and b) Land Depth Jump (LDJ; N = 7). Training was performed for 6 weeks and consisted of 5 × 20 repetitions of DJ training on 20-cm dry sand or 3-cm hard court surface twice weekly. Vertical Jump Test (VJT), Standing Long Jump Test (SLJT), 20-m and 40-m sprint, T-test (TT) and one repetition maximum leg press (1RMLP) were performed before and after training. Significant improvements in VJT [4 (ES = 0.63) vs. 5.4 (ES = 0.85) cm], SLJT [8.3 (ES = 0.3) vs. 12.7 (ES = 0.57) cm], and 1RMLP [23.5 (ES = 0.56) vs. 15.3 (ES = 0.49) kg] were seen for both the groups. Likewise, significant decreases were observed for both SDJ and LDJ groups in 20-m [0.3 (ES = 0.72) vs. 0.4 (ES = 1.98) s] and 40-m sprint times [0.2 (ES = 0.4) vs. 0.5 (ES = 0.71) s], and TT [0.5 (ES = 0.62) vs. 0.9 (ES = 0.57) s]. With regard to ES, it can be recommended that athletes used LDJ training for enhancing sprint and jump and SDJ training for improving agility and strength. PMID:25243078

Utilization of PET-CT in target volume delineation for three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer and atelectasis.

PubMed

Yin, Li-Jie; Yu, Xiao-Bin; Ren, Yan-Gang; Gu, Guang-Hai; Ding, Tian-Gui; Lu, Zhi

2013-03-18

To investigate the utilization of PET-CT in target volume delineation for three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and atelectasis. Thirty NSCLC patients who underwent radical radiotherapy from August 2010 to March 2012 were included in this study. All patients were pathologically confirmed to have atelectasis by imaging examination. PET-CT scanning was performed in these patients. According to the PET-CT scan results, the gross tumor volume (GTV) and organs at risk (OARs, including the lungs, heart, esophagus and spinal cord) were delineated separately both on CT and PET-CT images. The clinical target volume (CTV) was defined as the GTV plus a margin of 6-8 mm, and the planning target volume (PTV) as the GTV plus a margin of 10-15mm. An experienced physician was responsible for designing treatment plans PlanCT and PlanPET-CT on CT image sets. 95% of the PTV was encompassed by the 90% isodose curve, and the two treatment plans kept the same beam direction, beam number, gantry angle, and position of the multi-leaf collimator as much as possible. The GTV was compared using a target delineation system, and doses distributions to OARs were compared on the basis of dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters. The GTVCT and GTVPET-CT had varying degrees of change in all 30 patients, and the changes in the GTVCT and GTVPET-CT exceeded 25% in 12 (40%) patients. The GTVPET-CT decreased in varying degrees compared to the GTVCT in 22 patients. Their median GTVPET-CT and median GTVPET-CT were 111.4 cm3 (range, 37.8 cm3-188.7 cm3) and 155.1 cm3 (range, 76.2 cm3-301.0 cm3), respectively, and the former was 43.7 cm3 (28.2%) less than the latter. The GTVPET-CT increased in varying degrees compared to the GTVCT in 8 patients. Their median GTVPET-CT and median GTVPET-CT were 144.7 cm3 (range, 125.4 cm3-178.7 cm3) and 125.8 cm3 (range, 105.6 cm3-153.5 cm3), respectively, and the former was 18.9 cm3 (15.0%) greater than the latter. Compared to PlanCT parameters, PlanPET-CT parameters showed varying degrees of changes. The changes in lung V20, V30, esophageal V50 and V55 were statistically significant (Ps< 0.05 for all), while the differences in mean lung dose, lung V5, V10, V15, heart V30, mean esophageal dose, esophagus Dmax, and spinal cord Dmax were not significant (Ps> 0.05 for all). PET-CT allows a better distinction between the collapsed lung tissue and tumor tissue, improving the accuracy of radiotherapy target delineation, and reducing radiation damage to the surrounding OARs in NSCLC patients with atelectasis.

New upper limits for atmospheric constituents on Io

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fink, U.; Larson, H. P.; Gautier, T. N., III

1976-01-01

A spectrum of Io from 0.86 to 2.7 microns with a resolution of 3.36 per cm and a signal to rms noise ratio of 120 is presented. No absorptions due to any atmospheric constituents on Io could be found in the spectrum. Upper limits of 0.12 cm-atm for NH3, 0.12 cm-atm for CH4, 0.4 cm-atm for N2O, and 24 cm-atm for H2S were determined. Laboratory spectra of ammonia frosts as a function of temperature were compared with the spectrum of Io and showed this frost not to be present at the surface of Io. A search for possible resonance lines of carbon, silicon, and sulfur, as well as the 1.08-micron line of helium, proved negative. Upper emission limits of 60, 18, 27, and 60 kilorayleighs, respectively, were established for these lines.

An empirical attempt to measure NRM lock-in depth in organic-rich varved lake sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snowball, Ian; Lougheed, Bryan C.; Mellström, Anette

2014-05-01

The growing awareness of significant magnetosomal contributions to natural assemblages of magnetic minerals means that much remains to be discovered about how sediments become magnetised by the geomagnetic field and, therefore, the fidelity of the information provided by post-depositional remanent magnetisations (pDRMs). We have investigated the palaeomagnetic properties of organic-rich varves retrieved from Gyltigesjön (southern Sweden). An earlier study of this site by Snowball et al. (2013) compared centennial-millennial trends in inclination, declination and relative paleointensity (RPI) to a regional reference curve, which indicated that the natural remanent magnetisation (NRM) lock-in depth is at least 21 cm. This result prompted us to attempt to improve the recovery of the uppermost sediments and magnetically characterise them to assess the effect of consolidation on NRM acquisition. Fixed piston cores recovered in 2 m drives were kept vertical before capping, and discrete palaeomagnetic subsamples were obtained as close as possible to the sediment-water interface. The timescale was validated by establishing the concentration of lead (Pb) in the palaeomagnetic samples and comparing the downcore trends to the well-known regional atmospheric pollution history. Induced magnetic remanence and magnetic grain-size parameters (including the median destructive field of the anhysteretic remanent magnetization [mdfARM]) show that the concentration of single-domain magnetite grains (magnetosomes) are relatively uniform in the sediments, suggesting that they are produced in the water column. However, the mdfNRM in the uppermost sediment is several mT lower than the mdfARM (approx. 45 mT). The mdfNRM increases downcore and it agrees with the mdfARM at a depth of approx. 80 cm, which corresponds to an age of ca. 210 yrs. These observations suggest that a coarse grained clastic component contributes to the NRM close to the sediment surface, while magnetite magnetosomes become more important deeper down, which should cause smoothing of the palaeomagnetic signal. Despite the care we took, the sediment type made it practically impossible to recover precisely oriented subsamples for measurements of palaeomagnetic secular variation (PSV), and scattered results were produced. This empirical study emphasises the fact that a significant palaeomagnetic lock-in delay applies to organic-rich varves, in which magnetite magnetosomes are preserved.

Testing Younger Dryas ET Impact (YDB) Evidence at Hall’s Cave, Texas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stafford, T. W.; Lundelius, E.; Kennett, J.; Kennett, D. J.; West, A.; Wolbach, W. S.

2009-12-01

Hall’s Cave, Kerrville County Texas, 167 km WSW of Austin, provides a unique opportunity for testing the presence of a chronostratigraphic datum (YDB layer) containing rare and exotic proxies, including nanodiamonds, aciniform soot, and magnetic spherules, the origins of which remain controversial, but possibly derive from a cosmic impact ~12,900 CAL BP. The karst-collapse cave in Cretaceous limestone on the Edwards Plateau contains ≥ 3.7 m of stratified clays grading to clayey silts recording continuous deposition from 16 ka RC yr to present. The cave’s small catchment area and mode of deposition were constant, and the stratigraphy is well dated based on 162 AMS 14C dates from individual vertebrate fossils, snails, charcoal, and sediment chemical fractions. The cave sequence contains an abundant small animal vertebrate fossil record, exhibiting biostratigraphic changes, and the timing of the late Pleistocene megafaunal extinction is consistent with that elsewhere in North America. At 151 cm below datum is the extremely sharp, smooth contact separating lower, dusky red (2.5YR3/2) clays below from overlying dark reddish brown (5YR3/3) clays (forming a 20-cm-thick dark layer) and dating to 13,000 CAL BP, at or close to the age of the YDB datum elsewhere. This appears to be the most distinctive lithologic change of the deglacial sequence. Sediments at or within 10 cm of this contact contain the local extinction of 4 species of bats, the local extinction of the prairie dog (Cynomys sp.) and perhaps other burrowing mammals in response to decrease in soil thickness, and the uppermost occurrence of 6 late Pleistocene megafaunal taxa that, although rare in the cave, do not extend younger than 12.9 ka. We collected and analyzed sediments at high resolution above and below the distinct lithologic contact at 151 cm. The red clays from 151 to 153 cm and immediately preceding the lithologic contact contain an abundance of nanodiamonds (5 different allotropes), aciniform soot at 2400 ppm, magnetic spherules, and carbon spherules, all of which we interpret as evidence for a unique chronostratigraphic marker (YDB) in the Western Hemisphere. Because the age of this horizon is ~ 13,000 CAL BP, we interpret the age of the event as the beginning of the Younger Dryas cooling. Regional soil erosion began ~15,000 CAL BP and continued until 7000 CAL BP, but dating suggests that there is no discontinuity or hiatus in deposition, and thus, the exotic materials in that layer are not considered to be erosional accumulations. Future analyses include sub-centimeter sampling over the YD boundary, quantification of nanodiamonds and other event-proxies within 1000 yr of the boundary and in sediments several 1000 years older and younger, continued refinement of the AMS 14C record to determine within 50 yr the location of 12,900 CAL BP datum and high resolution analysis of small animal biostratigraphy.

Retrospective Cohort Study of Bronchial Doses and Radiation-Induced Atelectasis After Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy of Lung Tumors Located Close to the Bronchial Tree

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

Karlsson, Kristin, E-mail: kristin.karlsson@karolinska.se; Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm; Nyman, Jan

2013-11-01

Purpose: To evaluate the dose–response relationship between radiation-induced atelectasis after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and bronchial dose. Methods and Materials: Seventy-four patients treated with SBRT for tumors close to main, lobar, or segmental bronchi were selected. The association between incidence of atelectasis and bronchial dose parameters (maximum point-dose and minimum dose to the high-dose bronchial volume [ranging from 0.1 cm{sup 3} up to 2.0 cm{sup 3}]) was statistically evaluated with survival analysis models. Results: Prescribed doses varied between 4 and 20 Gy per fraction in 2-5 fractions. Eighteen patients (24.3%) developed atelectasis considered to be radiation-induced. Statistical analysis showedmore » a significant correlation between the incidence of radiation-induced atelectasis and minimum dose to the high-dose bronchial volumes, of which 0.1 cm{sup 3} (D{sub 0.1cm3}) was used for further analysis. The median value of D{sub 0.1cm3} (α/β = 3 Gy) was EQD{sub 2,LQ} = 147 Gy{sub 3} (range, 20-293 Gy{sub 3}). For patients who developed atelectasis the median value was EQD{sub 2,LQ} = 210 Gy{sub 3}, and for patients who did not develop atelectasis, EQD{sub 2,LQ} = 105 Gy{sub 3}. Median time from treatment to development of atelectasis was 8.0 months (range, 1.1-30.1 months). Conclusion: In this retrospective study a significant dose–response relationship between the incidence of atelectasis and the dose to the high-dose volume of the bronchi is shown.« less

Vertical small scale variations of sorption and mineralization of three herbicides in subsurface limestone and sandy aquifer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janniche, G. S.; Mouvet, C.; Albrechtsen, H.-J.

2011-04-01

Vertical variation in sorption and mineralization potential of mecoprop (MCPP), isoproturon and acetochlor were investigated at low concentrations (μg-range) at the cm-scale in unsaturated sub-surface limestone samples and saturated sandy aquifer samples from an agricultural catchment in Brévilles, France. From two intact core drills, four heterogenic limestone sections were collected from 4.50 to 26.40 m below surface (mbs) and divided into 12 sub-samples of 8-25 cm length, and one sandy aquifer section from 19.20 to 19.53 m depth divided into 7 sub-samples of 4-5 cm length. In the sandy aquifer section acetochlor and isoproturon sorption increased substantially with depth; in average 78% (acetochlor) and 61% (isoproturon) per 5 cm. Also the number of acetochlor and isoproturon degraders (most-probable-number) was higher in the bottom half of the aquifer section (93-> 16 000/g) than in the upper half (4-71/g). One 50 cm long limestone section with a distinct shift in color showed a clear shift in mineralization, number of degraders and sorption: In the two brown, uppermost samples, up to 31% mecoprop and up to 9% isoproturon was mineralized during 231 days, the numbers of mecoprop and isoproturon degraders were 1300 to > 16 000/g, and the sorption of both isoproturon and acetochlor was more than three times higher, compared to the two deeper, grayish samples just below where mineralization (≤ 4%) and numbers of degraders (1-520/g) were low for all three herbicides. In both unsaturated limestone and sandy aquifer, variations and even distinct shifts in both mineralization, number of specific degraders and sorption were seen within just 4-15 cm of vertical distance. A simple conceptual model of herbicides leaching to groundwater through a 10 m unsaturated limestone was established, and calculations showed that a 30 cm active layer with the measured sorption and mineralization values hardly impacted the fate of the investigated herbicides, whereas a total thickness of layers of 1 m would substantially increase natural attenuation.

Influence of the fractioned irradiation energy in the phototherapy with low intensity laser on the growth of human dental pulp fibroblasts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meneguzzo, D. T.; Eduardo, C. P.; Ribeiro, M. S.; Marques, M. M.

2008-03-01

Laser phototherapy has proven to improve treatment of several pathologies in dentistry. The aim of the present study was to analyze the low power laser phototherapy effects comparing multiple irradiations with the same total energy at once. This in vitro study focuses on the biostimulation of cellular growth of pulp fibroblasts (FP5 cell lineage). The cells were grown in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's (DME) medium with either 5% (nutritional deficit) or 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS). Laser irradiation was carried out with diode lasers with the following parameters: 685 nm, 40 mW, spot size 0.019 cm2. The groups were: G1(6.3J/cm2, 3 s, 0.12J), G2 (12.6J/cm2, 6 s, 0.24J), G3 (18.9J/cm2, 9 s, 0.36J), G4 (2 irradiations of 6.3J/cm2, 0.24J), G5 (3 irradiations of 6.3J/cm2, 0.36J), G6 (5% SFB, negative control, without irradiation), and G7 (10% SFB, positive control, without irradiation). On groups G4 and G5 the irradiation was performed with 6h-intervals. For growth analysis, the MTT test was used 24 hours after the last irradiation. The data from spectrophotometer were analyzed by ANOVA followed by the Tukey's test. The groups submitted to multiple irradiations presented significantly higher cell growth than the groups with single irradiation. This cell growth was similar to that of positive control group. The laser phototherapy with multiple irradiations is more effective on cellular growth.

Age and body size of captive hawksbill turtles at the onset of follicular development.

PubMed

Kawazu, Isao; Kino, Masakatsu; Maeda, Konomi; Teruya, Hideshi

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to record the age and body size of 23 captive female hawksbill turtles at the onset of follicular development. The age, straight carapace length (SCL), and body mass (BM) of the turtles were recorded between 2006 and 2014 at follicular development (determined via ultrasonography) these parameters were 17.7 ± 1.7 years (range: 13-20 years), 77.7 ± 3.3 cm (73.3-83.5 cm), and 61.1 ± 8.0 kg (48.2-76.1 kg), respectively. When the year of the onset of follicular development was designated year 0, the increase in SCL in years -7-0 and 0-3 averaged 2.2 cm and 1.0 cm, respectively. Correspondingly, the increase in BM in years -7-0 and 0-3 averaged 5.0 kg and 2.2 kg, respectively. This is the first study to report the age and body size of captive female hawksbill turtles at the onset of follicular development, which indicates the beginning of sexual maturation. The reduction in growth after follicular development suggests that at the onset of sexual maturation, female hawksbills may utilize energy for follicular development rather than growth. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

High Mass Loading MnO2 with Hierarchical Nanostructures for Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Huang, Zi-Hang; Song, Yu; Feng, Dong-Yang; Sun, Zhen; Sun, Xiaoqi; Liu, Xiao-Xia

2018-04-24

Metal oxides have attracted renewed interest as promising electrode materials for high energy density supercapacitors. However, the electrochemical performance of metal oxide materials deteriorates significantly with the increase of mass loading due to their moderate electronic and ionic conductivities. This limits their practical energy. Herein, we perform a morphology and phase-controlled electrodeposition of MnO 2 with ultrahigh mass loading of 10 mg cm -2 on a carbon cloth substrate to achieve high overall capacitance without sacrificing the electrochemical performance. Under optimum conditions, a hierarchical nanostructured architecture was constructed by interconnection of primary two-dimensional ε-MnO 2 nanosheets and secondary one-dimensional α-MnO 2 nanorod arrays. The specific hetero-nanostructures ensure facile ionic and electric transport in the entire electrode and maintain the structure stability during cycling. The hierarchically structured MnO 2 electrode with high mass loading yields an outstanding areal capacitance of 3.04 F cm -2 (or a specific capacitance of 304 F g -1 ) at 3 mA cm -2 and an excellent rate capability comparable to those of low mass loading MnO 2 electrodes. Finally, the aqueous and all-solid asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) assembled with our MnO 2 cathode exhibit extremely high volumetric energy densities (8.3 mWh cm -3 at the power density of 0.28 W cm -3 for aqueous ASC and 8.0 mWh cm -3 at 0.65 W cm -3 for all-solid ASC), superior to most state-of-the-art supercapacitors.

Effect of distribution, interface property and density of hydrogel-embedded vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays on the properties of a flexible solid state supercapacitor.

PubMed

Zhu, Qi; Yuan, Xietao; Zhu, Yihao; Ni, Jiangfeng; Zhang, Xiaohua; Yang, Zhaohui

2018-05-11

In this paper we fabricate a robust flexible solid-state supercapacitor (FSC) device by embedding a conductive poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel into aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays. We carefully investigate the effect of distribution, interface properties and densification of CNTs in the gel matrix on the electrochemical properties of an FSC. The total electrochemical capacitance of the device is measured to be 227 mF cm -3 with a maximum energy density of 0.02 mWh cm -3 , which is dramatically enhanced compared with a similar device composed of non-parallel CNTs. Additionally, controllable in situ electrochemical oxidation greatly improved the compatibility between the hydrophobic CNTs and the hydrophilic hydrogel, which decreased the resistance of the device and introduced extra pseudocapacitance. After such oxidation treatment the energy storage ability further doubled to 430 mF cm -3 with a maximum energy density of 0.04 mWh cm -3 . The FSCs based on densified CNT arrays exhibited a much higher volumetric capacitance of 1140 mF cm -3 and a larger energy density of 0.1 mWh cm -3 , with a large power density of 14 mW cm -3 . All devices show excellent stability of capacitance after at least 10 000 charge-discharge cycles with a loss of less than 2%. These easy-to-assemble hybrid arrays thus potentially provide a new method for manufacturing wearable devices and implantable medical devices.

Soil-Air Interactions during Airblast-Induced Ground Motions.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-01

Calculations , Cases 1 to 4. 67 6 . 7 *. . . . . . . . .% = " [ -.° % . °,’ ’ °" Oo ° . o...OVERiPRESSURiE VS. TIME FOR STATIONS 7 -113 7 . 0 6 . 0 5. 0 4. S / 8 La4.0 V󈧘 Station Depth ( cm ) a-3. 0 / 2.0 50 2. 0. 60 ... 08 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 J..4 0. 5 0.6 TIME...3280 CPSE 2 80 ] S!VELOCITY VS. TIME FOR .STATIONS. 7 -18 - 60 40 Station Depth ( cm )-~ 20 - C N, 6 *60 8 0 -40 -60 -80 p0 0. 1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0. 5

Unveiling the Hot Molecular Core in the Ultracompact H II Region with Extended Emission G12.21-0.10

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de la Fuente, E.; Trinidad, M. A.; Porras, A.; Rodríguez-Rico, C.; Araya, E. D.; Kurtz, S.; Hofner, P.; Nigoche-Netro, A.

2018-04-01

We present a multiwavelength study of the cometary H II region G12.21-0.10 using the VLA and OVRO. Both radio continuum (0.3, 0.7, 2 and 3.6 cm) and spectral lines of H41α, 13CS(2-1) & (1-0), and NH3(2,2) & (4,4) observations are included. We find two 3 mm continuum peaks toward G12.21-0.10; one of them is spatially coincident with the UC H II region, while the other coincides spatially with a molecular clump. We also find that the 0.7, 2 and 3.6 cm continuum and H41α line are only detected toward the UC H II region, while the 13CS, and NH3 are spatially associated with the molecular clump. Based on the morphology, kinetic temperature (≍86 K), volumetric density (≍1.5×106 cm-3) and linear size (≍0.22 pc) of the molecular clump, we suggest this source is consistent with a hot molecular core.

Superselective Particle Embolization Enhances Efficacy of Radiofrequency Ablation: Effects of Particle Size and Sequence of Action

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

Tanaka, Toshihiro, E-mail: toshihir@bf6.so-net.ne.jp; Isfort, Peter, E-mail: isfort@hia.rwth-aachen.de; Braunschweig, Till, E-mail: tbraunschweig@ukaachen.de

2013-06-15

Purpose. To evaluate the effects of particle size and course of action of superselective bland transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) on the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods. Twenty pigs were divided into five groups: group 1a, 40-{mu}m bland TAE before RFA; group 1b, 40-{mu}m bland TAE after RFA; group 2a, 250-{mu}m bland TAE before RFA; group 2b, 250-{mu}m bland TAE after RFA and group 3, RFA alone. A total of 40 treatments were performed with a combined CT and angiography system. The sizes of the treated zones were measured from contrast-enhanced CTs on days 1 and 28. Animals were humanelymore » killed, and the treated zones were examined pathologically. Results. There were no complications during procedures and follow-up. The short-axis diameter of the ablation zone in group 1a (mean {+-} standard deviation, 3.19 {+-} 0.39 cm) was significantly larger than in group 1b (2.44 {+-} 0.52 cm; P = 0.021), group 2a (2.51 {+-} 0.32 cm; P = 0.048), group 2b (2.19 {+-} 0.44 cm; P = 0.02), and group 3 (1.91 {+-} 0.55 cm; P < 0.001). The greatest volume of ablation was achieved by performing embolization with 40-{mu}m particles before RFA (group 1a; 20.97 {+-} 9.65 cm{sup 3}). At histology, 40-{mu}m microspheres were observed to occlude smaller and more distal arteries than 250-{mu}m microspheres. Conclusion. Bland TAE is more effective before RFA than postablation embolization. The use of very small 40-{mu}m microspheres enhances the efficacy of RFA more than the use of larger particles.« less

Evaluating a sensor setup with respect to near-surface soil water monitoring and determination of in-situ water retention functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nolz, R.; Kammerer, G.

2017-06-01

Monitoring water status near the soil surface is a prerequisite for studying hydrological processes at the soil-atmosphere boundary and an option for calibrating remotely sensed water content data, for instance. As the water status of the uppermost soil layer is highly variable in space and time, adequate sensors are required to enable accurate measurements. Therefore, a sensor setup was tested and evaluated in the laboratory and in the field for such a purpose. The arrangement included Hydra Probe and MPS-2 sensors to measure water content and matric potential, respectively. Performance of the MPS-2 was validated in the laboratory by comparing sensor readings with the water potential of a soil, drained to equilibrium for certain pressure steps inside a pressure plate apparatus. Afterwards, six Hydra Probes and twelve MPS-2 sensors were installed in bare soil at a small field plot of about 9 m2. The measurements represented soil water status to a depth of 6 cm from surface. Core samples were repeatedly excavated around the measurement spots. Their water content was determined and the samples were further utilized to analyze water retention characteristics. The tested setup properly reflected changes of near-surface soil water status due to rainfall and evaporation. However, some shortcomings weakened the potential of the chosen arrangement. Site-specific calibration of the Hydra Probes - implemented by relating sensor readings to the water content values of the core samples - confirmed the applicability of the recommended standard calibration parameters for the respective soil texture. The derived user calibration enabled a measurement accuracy of 0.02 cm3·cm-3. Further improvement was restrained by the spatial variability of soil moisture. In this context, spots that were permanently drier or wetter than the others were discovered by means of a temporal stability approach. Performance of MPS-2 sensors was more critical with respect to the objectives. Sensor-to-sensor variation was small at the applied pressure steps of -20, -50, and -100 kPa, but the respective averaged readings were -18, -37, and -57 kPa. At matric potentials of -200 and -300 kPa, the MPS-2 revealed substantial sensor-to-sensor variation. The large deviation of the sensor readings in the field confirmed that the calibration of the MPS-2 should be improved. However, in spite of this inaccuracy, the wide measuring range of the MPS-2 offers suitability to a wide range of potential applications. As an example, water retention functions were calculated from the in-situ data and compared to retention data from the core samples.

Impact of interventional edge-to-edge repair on mitral valve geometry.

PubMed

Schueler, Robert; Kaplan, Sarah; Melzer, Charlotte; Öztürk, Can; Weber, Marcel; Sinning, Jan-Malte; Welz, Armin; Werner, Nikos; Nickenig, Georg; Hammerstingl, Christoph

2017-03-01

The acute and long-term effects of interventional edge-to-edge repair on the mitral valve (MV) geometry are unclear. We sought to assess MV-annular geometry and the association of changes in MV-diameters with functional response one year after MitraClip implantation. Consecutive patients (n=84; age 81.2±8.3years, logistic EuroSCORE 21.7±17.9%) with symptomatic moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation (MR) underwent MitraClip-procedure. MV-annular geometry was assessed with 3D TOE before, immediately and one year after clip implantation. 96.7% of secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) patients presented with moderate-to-severe MR, 3.3% with severe SMR, respectively. 66.7% of primary MR (PMR) patients had moderate-to-severe MR, and 33.3% severe PMR respectively. When analyzing immediate effects of MitraClipC on mitral geometry, only patients with SMR (n=60, 71.4%) experienced significant reductions of the diastolic MV anterior-posterior diameters (AP: 3.9±0.5cm, 3.5±0.7cm; p<0.001), and annulus-areas (2D: 12.9±3.8cm2, 12.6±3.7cm2; p<0.001; 3D: 13.4±3.8, 13.1±3.2cm2; p<0.001). All measures on MV annular geometry were not significantly altered in patients with PMR (p>0.05). After one year of follow-up, MV annular parameters remained significantly reduced in SMR patients (p<0.05) and remained unchanged in subjects with PMR (p>0.05). Only SMR patients experienced significant increase in 6min walking distances (p=0.004), decrease in pulmonary pressures (p=0.007) and functional NYHA-class (p<0.001); in patients with PMR only NYHA class improved after one year (p<0.001). Edge-to-edge repair with the MitraClip-system impacts on MV-geometry in patients with SMR with stable results after 12months. Reduction of MV-annular dimensions was associated with higher rates of persisting MR reduction and better functional status in patients with SMR. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Massive carbon addition to an organic-rich Andosol increased the subsoil but not the topsoil carbon stock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zieger, Antonia; Kaiser, Klaus; Ríos Guayasamín, Pedro; Kaupenjohann, Martin

2018-05-01

Andosols are among the most carbon-rich soils, with an average of 254 Mg ha-1 organic carbon (OC) in the upper 100 cm. A current theory proposes an upper limit for OC stocks independent of increasing carbon input, because of finite binding capacities of the soil mineral phase. We tested the possible limits in OC stocks for Andosols with already large OC concentrations and stocks (212 g kg-1 in the first horizon, 301 Mg ha-1 in the upper 100 cm). The soils received large inputs of 1800 Mg OC ha-1 as sawdust within a time period of 20 years. Adjacent soils without sawdust application served as controls. We determined total OC stocks as well as the storage forms of organic matter (OM) of five horizons down to 100 cm depth. Storage forms considered were pyrogenic carbon, OM of < 1.6 g cm-3 density and with little to no interaction with the mineral phase, and strongly mineral-bonded OM forming particles of densities between 1.6 and 2.0 g cm-3 or > 2.0 g cm-3. The two fractions > 1.6 g cm-3 were also analysed for aluminium-organic matter complexes (Al-OM complexes) and imogolite-type phases using ammonium-oxalate-oxalic-acid extraction and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Pyrogenic organic carbon represented only up to 5 wt % of OC, and thus contributed little to soil OM. In the two topsoil horizons, the fraction between 1.6 and 2.0 g cm-3 had 65-86 wt % of bulk soil OC and was dominated by Al-OM complexes. In deeper horizons, the fraction > 2.0 g cm-3 contained 80-97 wt % of the bulk soil's total OC and was characterized by a mixture of Al-OM complexes and imogolite-type phases, with proportions of imogolite-type phases increasing with depth. In response to the sawdust application, only the OC stock at 25-50 cm depth increased significantly (α = 0.05, 1 - β = 0.8). The increase was entirely due to increased OC in the two fractions > 1.6 g cm-3. However, there was no significant increase in the total OC stocks within the upper 100 cm. The results suggest that long-term large OC inputs cannot be taken up by the obviously OC-saturated topsoil but induce downward migration and gradually increasing storage of OC in subsurface soil layers. The small additional OC accumulation despite the extremely large OC input over 20 years, however, shows that long time periods of high input are needed to promote the downward movement and deep soil storage of OC.

Cooperative triple-proton/hydrogen atom relay in 7-azaindole(CH3OH)2 in the gas phase: remarkable change in the reaction mechanism from vibrational-mode specific to statistical fashion with increasing internal energy.

PubMed

Sakota, Kenji; Inoue, Naomi; Komoto, Yusuke; Sekiya, Hiroshi

2007-05-31

The 7-azaindole-methanol 1:2 cluster [7AI(CH(3)OH)2] undergoes excited-state triple-proton/hydrogen atom transfer (ESTPT/HT) along the hydrogen-bonded network in the gas phase. The measurements of the resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) spectra of 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(n) (n = 0-3), where subscript n indicates the number of deuterium, and the fluorescence excitation spectrum of 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(0) allowed us to investigate the ESTPT/HT dynamics. By comparing the intensity ratios of the vibronic bands between 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(0) and 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(3) in REMPI spectra, we obtained the lower limit of an acceleration factor (f(a)(low)) of 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(0), which is the ratio of the reaction rate for the excitation of a vibronic state to that of the zero-point state in S(1). The f(a)(low) values are 2.7 +/- 0.83 and 4.0 +/- 1.2 for an in-phase intermolecular stretching vibration (sigma(1)) and its overtone (2sigma(1)) observed at 181 cm(-1) and 359 cm(-1) in the excitation spectrum, respectively, while that of the vibration (nu(2)/sigma(1) or nu(3)/sigma(1)) at 228 cm(-1) is 1.1 +/- 0.83. Thus, vibrational-mode-specific ESTPT/HT occurs in the low-energy region (600 cm(-1)). The excitation of an intramolecular ring mode (nu(intra)) of 7AI at 744 cm(-1) substantially enhances the reaction rate (f(a)(low) = 4.4 +/- 0.98), but the increase of f(a)(low) is not prominent for the excitation of v(intra) + sigma(1) at 926 cm(-1) (f(a)(low) = 5.0 +/- 1.6), although the sigma(1) mode is excited. These results suggest that the ESTPT/HT reaction in 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(0) directly proceeds from the photoexcited states with the internal energy less than approximately 600 cm(-1), but it occurs from the isoenergetically vibrational-energy redistributed states when the internal energy is large. This shows a remarkable feature of ESTPT/HT in 7AI(CH(3)OH)2; the nature of the reaction mechanism changes from vibrational-mode specific to statistical fashion with increasing the internal energy. The hydrogen-bonded network in 7AI(CH(3)OH)2-d(0) is represented by a directed graph. This shows that ESTPT/HT is one of the simplest examples of cooperative phenomena.

SU-E-T-791: Validation of a Determinant Based Photon Transport Solver in Dose Perturbed By Diverse Media

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

Kuo, H; Tome, W; Yaparpalvi, R

Purpose: To validate a determinant based photon transport solver in dose imparted within different transition zone between different medium. Methods: Thickness (.2cm,.5cm, 1cm, 3cm) from various materials (Air - density=0.0012g/cm3, Cork-0.19g/cm3, Lung-0.26g/cm3, Bone-1.85g/cm3, Aluminum (Al)-2.7g/cm3, Titanium (Ti)-4.42g/cm3, Iron (Fe)-8g/cm3) were sandwiched by 10cm solid water. 6MV were used to study the calculation difference between a superposition photon beam model (AAA) and the determinant based Boltzmann photon transport solver (XB) at the upstream (I) and downstream boarder (II) of the medium, within the medium (III), and at far distance downstream away from medium (IV). Calculation was validated with available thickness ofmore » Air, Cork, Lung, Al, Ti and Fe. Results are presented as the ratio of the dose at the point with medium perturbation to the same point dose without perturbation. Results: Zone I showed different backscatter enhancement from high-density materials within the 5mm of the upstream border. AAA showed no backscatter at all, XB showed good agreement beyond 1mm upstream (1.18 vs 1.14, 1.09 vs 1.10, and 1.04 vs 1.05 for Fe, Ti, and Fe, respectively). Zone II showed a re-buildup after exiting high-density medium and Air but no build up for density close to water in both of the measurement and XB. AAA yielded the opposite results in Zone II. XB and AAA showed in Zone III very different absorption in high density medium and the Air. XB and measurement had high concordance regarding photon attenuation in Zone IV. AAA showed less agreement especially when the medium was Air or Fe. Conclusion: XB compared well with measurement in regions 1mm away from the interface. Planning using XB should be beneficial for External Beam Planning in situations with large air cavity, very low lung density, compact bone, and any kind of metal implant.« less

Prediction of supercritical ethane bulk solvent densities for pyrazine solvation shell average occupancy by 1, 2, 3, and 4 ethanes: combined experimental and ab initio approach.

PubMed

Hrnjez, Bruce J; Sultan, Samuel T; Natanov, Georgiy R; Kastner, David B; Rosman, Michael R

2005-11-17

We introduce a method that addresses the elusive local density at the solute in the highly compressible regime of a supercritical fluid. Experimentally, the red shift of the pyrazine n-pi electronic transition was measured at infinite dilution in supercritical ethane as a function of pressure from 0 to about 3000 psia at two temperatures, one close (35.0 degrees C) to the critical temperature and the other remote (55.0 degrees C). Computationally, stationary points were located on the potential surfaces for pyrazine and one, two, three, and four ethanes at the MP2/6-311++G(d,p) level. The vertical n-pi ((1)B(3u)) transition energies were computed for each of these geometries with a TDDFT/B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) method. The combination of experiment and computation allows prediction of supercritical ethane bulk densities at which the pyrazine primary solvation shell contains an average of one, two, three, and four ethane molecules. These density predictions were achieved by graphical superposition of calculated shifts on the experimental shift versus density curves for 35.0 and 55.0 degrees C. Predicted densities are 0.0635, 0.0875, and 0.0915 g cm(-3) for average pyrazine primary solvation shell occupancy by one, two, and three ethanes at both 35.0 and 55.0 degrees C. Predicted densities are 0.129 and 0.150 g cm(-3) for occupancy by four ethanes at 35.0 and 55.0 degrees C, respectively. An alternative approach, designed to "average out" geometry specific shifts, is based on the relationship Deltanu = -23.9n cm(-1), where n = ethane number. Graphical treatment gives alternative predicted densities of 0.0490, 0.0844, and 0.120 g cm(-3) for average pyrazine primary solvation shell occupancy by one, two, and three ethanes at both 35.0 and 55.0 degrees C, and densities of 0.148 and 0.174 g cm(-3) for occupancy by four ethanes at 35.0 and 55.0 degrees C, respectively.

Prolonged intervals during Mycobacterium tuberculosis subunit vaccine boosting contributes to eliciting immunity mediated by central memory-like T cells.

PubMed

Bai, Chunxiang; He, Juanjuan; Niu, Hongxia; Hu, Lina; Luo, Yanping; Liu, Xun; Peng, Liang; Zhu, Bingdong

2018-05-01

It is believed that central memory T cells (T CM ) provide long-term protection against tuberculosis (TB). However, the effects of TB subunit vaccine immunization schedule, especially the vaccination intervals, on T cell immune memory is still unclear. In this study, mice were immunized with fusion protein ESAT6-Ag85B-MPT64 (190-198)-Mtb8.4-Rv2626c (LT70) based subunit vaccine three times according to the following schedules: ① 0, 3rd and 6th week respectively (0-3-6w), ② 0, 4th and 12th week (0-4-12w), and ③ 0, 4th and 24th week (0-4-24w). We found that both schedules of 0-4-12w and 0-4-24w induced higher level of antigen specific IL-2, IFN-γ and TNF-α than 0-3-6w immunization. Among them, 0-4-12w induced the highest level of IL-2, which is a key cytokine mainly produced by T CM . Moreover, by cultured IFN-γ ELISPOT and cell proliferation assay etc., we found that the vaccination schedule of 0-4-12w elicited higher numbers of T CM like cells, stronger T CM - mediated immune responses and higher protective efficacy against M. bovis BCG challenge than 0-3-6w did. It suggests that prolonging the vaccination interval of TB subunit vaccine to some extent contributes to inducing more abundant T CM like cells and providing stronger immune protection against mycobacteria infection. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Final adult height in long-term growth hormone-treated achondroplasia patients.

PubMed

Harada, Daisuke; Namba, Noriyuki; Hanioka, Yuki; Ueyama, Kaoru; Sakamoto, Natsuko; Nakano, Yukako; Izui, Masafumi; Nagamatsu, Yuiko; Kashiwagi, Hiroko; Yamamuro, Miho; Ishiura, Yoshihito; Ogitani, Ayako; Seino, Yoshiki

2017-07-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the gain in final height of achondroplasia (ACH) patients with long-term growth hormone (GH) treatment. We analyzed medical data of 22 adult patients (8 males and 14 females) treated with GH at a dose of 0.05 mg/kg/day. Optionally, tibial lengthening (TL) was performed with the Ilizalov method in 15 patients and TL as well as femoral lengthening (FL) in 6 patients. Concomitant gonadal suppression therapy with buserelin acetate was applied in 13 patients. The mean treatment periods with GH were 10.7 ± 4.0 and 9.3 ± 2.5 years for males and females, respectively. GH treatment augmented the final height +0.60 ± 0.52 SD (+3.5 cm) and +0.51 ± 1.29 SD (+2.8 cm) in males and females compared to non-treated ACH patients, respectively. Final height of ACH patients that underwent GH and TL increased +1.72 ± 0.72 SD (+10.0 cm) and +1.95 ± 1.34 SD (+9.8 cm) in males and females, respectively. GH, TL, and FL increased their final height +2.97 SD (+17.2 cm) and +3.41 ± 1.63 SD (+17.3 cm) in males and females, respectively. Gonadal suppression therapy had no impact on final height. Long-term GH treatment contributes to 2.6 and 2.1% of final adult height in male and female ACH patients, respectively.