Science.gov (United States)

Two experiments used the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) to examine the affective dimension of pain in patients whose pain was secondary to malignancy. In experiment I, segregating groups of cancer patients on the basis of extreme scores (high versus low) on the MPQ failed to produce segregation on independent measures of affect and infirmity. This outcome contrasts with earlier work with chronic benign pain patients. Experiment II compared cancer pain patients matched with benign pain patients on intensity of pain report on the affective dimension of the MPQ. Cancer pain patients reported a reliably higher affective loading to their pain. These data suggest that cancer pain patients employ different criteria than benign pain patients in ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundControversy exists about how to effectively measure patient reported outcomes in IBS clinical trials. Pain numeric rating scales (NRS) are widely used in...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Pain; Pain Threshold; Labour Pain

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

In recent years RNA interference (RNAi) has rapidly become the most widely used tool for gene knockdown due to its high specificity and potency. RNAi is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Near-infrared spectroscopy is a convenient tool for measuring nanotube / carbonaceous impurities

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Twenty-eight measurement while drilling tools are listed in this year's MWD Comparison Tables. Updated data on tools listed last year and data on five new tools provide a convenient guide for choosing MWD systems. Future MWD technologies include sonic tools and tools that make measurements ahead of the bit. For the seventh year, Petroleum Engineer International presents the Measurement While Drilling (MWD) Tables comparing a variety of available tools from many different vendors. The 1994 Tables include two additional companies and five new MWD tools not found in last year's Tables. However, the tables should serve only as a reference source. System specifications can change rapidly as tools are refined and new technologies develop. ...

Science.gov (United States)

Studies of the effectiveness of operant, relaxation, cognitive, and multimodal behavioural approaches to the treatment of chronic benign pain other than headache were evaluated. In general, the quality of the studies was poor, and most investigations lacked appropriate and adequate control conditions, outcome measures, and/or follow-ups. While outcome reports for all four behavioural treatments have been mainly positive, few data were found which conclusively demonstrate that any of the approaches are effective or that they are the treatment of choice. The data do, however, imply that behavioural approaches may help patients lead more normal and productive lives. Specifically, the literature suggests that: (1) the operant method leads to increased activity levels and decreased pain and drug intake, (2) the relaxation approach results in decreased EMG levels and some pain reductions, (3) the cognitive ...

Science.gov (United States)

PMID:2255360

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Studies on the determinants of pain-related support are needed to enhance couples-based treatments for pain. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which pain catastrophizing...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... While some measures were suggested as counseling tools to guide and influence ... it be awarded as part of the NCO Evaluation Report (NCOER). ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Although previous research suggests that preamputation pain is a risk factor for pain after amputation, little is known about the association between acute postsurgical pain and chronic amputation-related pain. The current prospective study examined the associations of preamputation pain and acute postamputation pain with chronic amputation-related pain. The sample consisted of patients with lower limb amputation (N = 57) who provided both preamputation and postamputation data during a 2-year study period. Preamputation pain intensity and duration were assessed before amputation; acute phantom limb pain (PLP) and residual limb pain (RLP) intensity were assessed on postsurgical days 4 and 5. Acute PLP intensity was the only significant independent predictor of chronic PLP ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BACKGROUND:In adults, it is well known that high levels of pain catastrophizing are related to increased pain and disability as well as to heightened anxiety and depression. However,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Stabbing paroxysmal pain due to neurological disease can often be controlled by anticonvulsants, whereas steady burning pain is often responsive to tricyclic antidepressants, and to neuroleptics. Overuse...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Little is known about how sociodemographic factors relate to children’s chronic pain. This paper describes the pain, health, and sociodemographic characteristics of a cohort of children...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Opioids have been regarded for millennia as among the most effective drugs for the treatment of pain. Their use in the management of acute severe pain and chronic pain related to advanced medical...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The aim of the study was to determine whether children with chronic benign pain are in contact with their general practitioner (GP) more frequently than those without chronic benign pain. A random sample...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Objectives Vietnamese patients? views on healthcare are changing as surgical interventions become more commonplace, but their views on perioperative care have remained largely unstudied during this period of rapid change. This study assesses Vietnamese patients? impression of anesthesia safety and postoperative pain in relation to clinical outcomes with the aim of improving patient-centered perioperative care. Methods The study cohort consisted of 180 hospitalized patients who were followed for 24?h following abdominal surgery. The assessments of these patients on the use of anesthesia and postoperative pain were measured by means of a 5-point Likert scale survey. Perioperative events were recorded on standardized forms by medical staff. The relationship between relevant factors affecting ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

SummaryBackground Persistent Lyme Disease Symptoms (PLDS) have included fatigue, headaches, poor concentration and memory, lightheadedness, joint pain, and mood disturbances. Evidence-based guidelines committees disagree over the severity of PLDS. The 2004 International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) concluded that PLDS are severe. The 2006 Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines committee concluded that PLDS are nothing more than the "aches and pains of daily living" and an ad hoc International Lyme group concluded that PLDS are "symptoms common in persons who have never had Lyme disease." Hypothesis Clinical trials validate the severity of persistent Lyme disease symptoms. Evaluation of the Hypothesis There are 22 standardized instruments used to measure the...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A porous tooling system was selected for the processing of Graphite/PMR-15 Polyimide laminates in thickness up to 3.2 mm. (0.125 inch). This tool system must have a reasonable strength, permeability dimensional stability, and thermal conductivity to accomplish curing at 600 F and 200 psi and 200 psi autoclave temperature and pressure. A permeability measuring apparatus was constructed and permeability vs. casting water level determined to produce tools at three different permeability levels. On these tools, laminates of 5, 11, and 22 plies (.027, .060, and 0.121 inch) were produced and evaluated by ultrasonic, mechanical, and thermal tests to determine the effect of the tool permeability on the cured laminates. All tools produced acceptable laminates at 5 and 11 plies but only the highest permeability produced acceptable clear ultrasonic ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

This work is focused on effect of various cooling strategies on surface roughness and tool wear during computer aided milling of soft workpiece materials. These milling operations were selected as dry milling, cool air cooling milling and fluid cooling milling. A cool air cooling system was designed and produced to cool end milling tools. Cool air was produced by a vortex tube. Annealed AISI 1050 was used as the workpiece material and cutting tool material was selected as HSS-Co8 DIN 844/BN. Optimal cutting parameters were selected according to workpiece hardness from reference catalog and kept for all tests. Tool wear and surface quality were measured for three different cooling types changing from ten minute machining time to thirty minute machining time. As a result, the surface roughne...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Accurate and automated methods for measuring the thickness of human cerebral cortex could provide powerful tools for diagnosing and studying a variety of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The University of North Carolina Comprehensive Pain Center, which has been in existence since 1972, is a pain evaluation, treatment and research program based upon individual diagnosis, comprehensive...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

While research has shown that patients’ beliefs about their pain are related to pain adjustment and treatment outcomes, little is known about the beliefs of their significant others....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Sex differences in pain are frequently reported in the literature. However, less is known about possible sex differences in the experience of pain secondary to a disability. The current study...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Chronic neurogenous pain is often an extremely difficult condition to manage. In the orofacial region, trauma from injury or dental procedures may lead to the development of severe neuralgic pains and...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectiveTo examine the longitudinal relationship between depressive symptoms at study entry (T1) on pain intensity (PI) and functional disability over a 1-year period...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Idiopathic or functional abdominal pain (FAP) is common in school-age children and typically reflects a functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID). FGIDs in adults have been distinguished by...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Psychological illness influences the experience and expression of pain and disability. We tested three null hypotheses: (1) patients with nonspecific pain (medically unexplained and idiopathic) and...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to identify the factors affecting the failure of trials (<50% pain reduction in pain for trial period) to improve success rate of spinal...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Fifty patients scheduled to undergo IVF received a standard anesthetic of fentanyl and propofol for induction, followed by propofol infusion, with Bispectral index values and modified Ramsey sedation scores recorded at 5-minute intervals for the duration of anesthesia care. Moderate sedation was found only transiently during the first 5-10 minutes of the oocyte retrieval, but thereafter the level of sedation increased, with deep sedation and general anesthesia measured in all patients as determined by both the Bispectral index scores and lack of response to painful stimulation.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition and one the most common causes of disability in the developed nations. Anecdotally, there is a general...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The treatment of chronic pain conditions continue to present a challenge to the medical field. Physical therapy treatment needs to approach the management of chronic pain differently than the approach used to resolve acute pain. Patients with chronic pain often have many factors that have perpetuated the pain condition. These factors, as well as pain itself, influence their ability to reactivate and perform functional daily activities. Physical therapists can begin to address some of the factors, including fear and deconditioning, by building confidence and body awareness in a self-care model including a slow graduated reactivation program. There is evidence that patients with chronic pain conditions have altered motor control that may be influencing reoccurrences and possible flares of pa...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundStump and phantom pains are debilitating sequelae of amputations that are often resistant to treatment. The efficacy of pharmacologic therapies, including...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Cryoanalgesia, the local application of extreme cold to nerves to produce analgesia, has been used to treat patients with intractable perineal pain. The cryoprobe was inserted percutaneously through...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Residual stresses are present in engineering components as an unintended consequence of manufacturing processes, but they are also deliberately introduced to beneficial effect during surface engineering procedures. Plasma nitriding is a process of particular importance for forming tools and dies, giving significant advantages in wear, and fatigue resistance through the generation of near-surface compressive residual stresses. A precise knowledge of the level and distribution of residual stresses that exist in engineering components is necessary for an accurate design and prediction of a component's fatigue resistance. However, measurement of residual stresses is not always possible, which is especially true for forming tools. Therefore, other methods for residual stress evaluation and pred...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recent industry advances in formation evaluation measurement-while-drilling (FEMWD) have been achieved in well log data acquisition quality and in geosteering drilling applications. This paper presents new technology as applied by Baker Hughes INTEQ which includes: geosteering techniques which help navigate through horizontally drilled reservoirs including improved quality dual propagation resistivity, neutron-porosity and formation-density measurements; predictive modeling of tool responses in reservoir geosteering applications; environmental computer modeling which aids interpretation, including tool eccentering; and new measurement enhancements.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The proactive protection measures and the traditional passive security protection tools are complementarities each other. It also can supply the conventional network security protection system and enhance its capability of the security protection. Based upon sorts of existing network security technologies, this article analyses and summarizes the technologies, functions and the development directions of some key proactive network security protection tools. (authors)

CERN Multimedia

Software Development Tools Service

Science.gov (United States)

PMID:20198285

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

PMID:21533865

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundQuality of Life measurements are necessary tools for effectively evaluating health services. In the population of patients afflicted with war-related blindness in Iran,...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Introduction.- Sling erosion/extrusion is a complication after suburethral sling insertion for female stress urinary incontinence that occurs in approximately 6% of patients. Symptoms may include vaginal discharge, infections, postcoital bleeding, and alterations of the sexual function. Little is known about the effect of sling erosion on the sexual function of the male partner. Aim.- The aim of this study was to determine male sexual function in partners of women who had undergone sling insertion for stress urinary incontinence and who developed sling erosion postoperatively. Main Outcome Measures.- Main outcome measures were the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BMSFI) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Methods.- Male partners of patients who presented with sling erosion ...

Science.gov (United States)

The language used by chronic benign pain patients to characterize their pain complaint was analyzed to determine the best predictor of psychiatric disturbance. Using the 78 adjectives provided by the McGill Pain Questionnaire, the number of affective descriptors used was the best predictor of psychiatric disturbance. Addition of sensory descriptors either to augment the total number of descriptors used (magnitude) or as a pattern of sensory greater than affective or sensory less than affective failed to increase predictive strength. PMID:6877847

Science.gov (United States)

Over the years, nurses, doctors and scientists have sought ways of assessing the impact of pain on patients. While many of the instruments devised have been extremely useful in identifying the nature and intensity of pain, defining the effect it has on people's lives and perceptions has proved much more problematic. Based on the work she carried out with patients suffering from chronic benign pain, Karen Rose explores one aspect of these effects--the feeling of isolation. By using a four-step anthropological approach to identify the impact of pain, she argues, nurses can arrive at a realistic and accurate assessment of how patients are coping. PMID:7947167

CERN Document Server

Dimensional metrology and positioning operations are used in many fields of particle accelerator projects. This lecture gives the basic tools to designers in the field of measure by analysing the spatial layout of measurement systems since it is central to dimensional metrology as well as positioning operations. In a second part, a case study dedicated to a synchrotron storage ring is proposed from the detection of the magnetic centre of quadrupoles to the orbit definition of the ring.

Science.gov (United States)

Forty-one patients were treated with epidural neurolysis using 50 % ethyl alcohol 2 ml. Thirty eight patients were suffering from cancer pain and three patients were complaining of chronic benign pain. Alcohol block was repeated 2.3 times (mean) in the same patient. Thirty patients were followed after the treatment. Forty-seven percent of the patients reported 70 % or greater pain relief and 20 % of the patients reported about 50 % pain relief. Duration of pain relief was from 9 days to 203 days with a mean duration of 54 days. Adverse effects were reported 43 % of the patients. There is no miserable adverse effect. Adverse effect reported most was pain with epidural injection of drugs after the alcohol block had been performed. PMID:8544293

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background and aims. The multiplicity of vaccine injections during childhood leads to iterative painful and stressful experiences which may lead in turn to anticipated pain and then possibly to a true needle phobia. We aimed at evaluating a multifactorial strategy of pain management combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches during vaccination, as compared to usual care, in 4- to 12-year-old children. Methods. In all, 239 children were enroled by 25 family practitioners in an open-label study. After a pseudo-randomization, usual pain management (n = 132) was compared to a multifactorial strategy (n = 107) associating preliminary application of an anesthesic patch, preferential use of specified vaccines, child education by the parents and the doctor, parental accompaniment...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

This work describes how a general, process-based mass-balance model (CoastMab) for phosphorus for coastal areas may be used as a tool to estimate realistic values of "natural" or preindustrial reference levels of key bioindicators in coastal science, including the Secchi depth, a standard measure of water clarity, the chlorophyll-a concentration, an operational measure of phytoplankton biomass and the concentration of cyanobacteria, a measure of the concentration of harmful algae. The CoastMab-model is an ecosystem model giving monthly predictions to achieve seasonal variations of basin-wide properties. The selected case-study area, the Gulf of Riga, is sensitive to nutrient loading because of its shallowness and low openness towards the Baltic Proper. The morphometry of any coastal area, ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectivesUse of prescription opioids for chronic pain is increasing, as is abuse of these medications, though the nature of the link between these trends is unclear....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to develop and validate a daily electronic Endometriosis Pain and Bleeding Diary (EPBD) for assessing treatment-related changes in endometriosis...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A retrospective study is presented of 83 athletes with tendo Achillis pain (TAP) treated conservatively over a 12-year period from 1976 to 1988. Local steroid injections did not contribute to an earlier...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

This article reports on an exploratory study of hospice social workers’ assessment and collaborative practices related to pain management; especially caregiver concerns about patient...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The development of central neuropathic pain varies among patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The factors contributing to the development and perpetuation of segmental pain (at-level allodynia)...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Previous studies in several different trigeminal nerve injury/inflammation models indicated that the hyperexcitability of primary afferent neurons contributes to the pain pathway underlying mechanical...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare persist in the U.S. Although pain is one of the most prevalent and disabling symptoms of disease, only a few studies have assessed disparities in...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Lumbar epidural anesthesia is useful in a variety of chronic benign pain syndromes, including lumbar radiculopathy, low back pain syndrome, spinal stenosis, and vertebral compression fractures. Given...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Inclusion of family members in the assessment of patients with chronic pain can improve outcomes. Family functioning can be assessed in four basic areas: boundaries, power, communication, and intimacy....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Patients with adhesive capsulitis were clinically evaluated to establish whether pain elicited by pressure on the coracoid area may be considered a pathognomonic sign of this condition. The study group...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe purpose of our study was to evaluate the clinical value of hybrid SPECT/CT for the assessment of patients with painful total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsTwenty-three...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectivePersons with chronic or recurrent pain frequently visit the emergency department (ED), yet little research examines this experience. We conducted this national survey to...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundChronic non-specific musculoskeletal pain (CNSMSP) may develop in childhood and adolescence, leading to disability and reduced quality of life that continues into adulthood....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Behavioural assessment methods have been used to signal the need for intervention and to evaluate treatment effectiveness. Direct observation and rating scales have been used to assess pain and distress...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ContextWhile opioids are increasingly used for chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP), we know little about opioid dosing patterns among individuals with CNCP in usual care...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

PMID:16528188

KoreaScience (Korea)

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Science.gov (United States)

The utilization of health care services in children and adolescents with chronic benign pain was studied in a Dutch population sample of 254 chronic pain sufferers aged 0-18 years. Children and adolescents who had reported chronic pain (continuous or recurrent pain >3 months) in our previous prevalence study were asked to keep a 3-week diary on their pain and to fill out questionnaires on background factors, health care use and the impact of pain. Parent ratings were used for children aged 0-11 years, self-report was used in adolescents (12-18 years). In a 3-month period, in 53.4% of the cases medication was used for pain, and general practitioners and specialists were consulted for pain in 31.1% and 13.9% of subjects, respectively. Physiotherapists, psychologists and alternative health providers were visited by 11.5, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this program is to tool-harden and make commercially available an existing wireless MWD tool to reliably operate in an air, air-mist, or air-foam environment during Appalachian Basin oil and gas directional drilling operations in conjunction with downhole motors and/or (other) bottom-hole assemblies. The application of this technology is required for drilling high angle (holes) and horizontal well drilling in low-pressure, water sensitive, tight gas formations that require air, air-mist, and foam drilling fluids. The basic approach to accomplishing this objective was to modify GEC's existing electromagnetic (e-m) CABLELESS''{trademark} MWD tool to improve its reliability in air drilling by increasing its tolerance to higher vibration and shock levels (hardening). Another important aim of the program is to provide for continuing availability of the resultant ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Psychological distress and postamputation pain were investigated in a sample of 582 males with long-term limb amputations (mean time since amputation 639.3 months, standard deviation 166.1; range 240-784 months). Prevalence of significant depressive symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]-D score?8) was 32.0%, and 34.0% of respondents met the screening criterion for clinical anxiety (HADS-A score?8). Nearly one quarter (24.6%) of respondents reported significant post-traumatic psychological stress symptoms (Impact of Event Scale scores?35). In total, 87.8% experienced either phantom or residual limb pain. Affective distress scores differed according to the respondents' type of pain experience. Respondents who experienced residual limb pain reported significantly hig...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The first part of the study goes into the determination of efficient strategies for the reduction of air pollutants. The developed method is not only derived theoretically but is tested with the concrete example of emissions sources of a German state. The second part goes into the question what the government can do in order to attain that air pollution abatement measures recognized as being efficient will be put into practice. As market economy mechanisms have advantages over central state planning in the allocation of economic resources the question arises if not also for environmental protection market economy tools may contribute to an improvement of the efficiency of air pollution abatement. Therefore the suitability of different tools of environmental policy for the realization of efficient air pollution abatement is investigated and evaluated. This is again not done abstractly but with existing emission sources. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Various measurement tools that are used in chaos theory were applied to analyze two-phase pressure signals with the objective of identifying and interpreting flow pattern transitions for two-phase flows in a small, horizontal rectangular channel. These measurement tools included power spectral density function, autocorrelation function, pseudo-phase-plane trajectory, Lyapunov exponent,s and fractal dimensions. It was demonstrated that the randomlike pressure fluctuations characteristic of two-phase flow in small rectangular channels are chaotic, and governed by a high-order deterministic system. The correlation dimension is potentially a new approach for identifying certain two-phase flow patterns and transitions.

Science.gov (United States)

We introduce the temporal logic Jeagle and its supporting tool for runtime verification of Java

Science.gov (United States)

A large proportion of patients may develop chronic pain following cancer treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. These patients can experience significant levels of physical and psychological morbidity. Our aim was to investigate a cognitive-behavioral pain management program (PMP) for cancer patients with chronic treatment-related pain. Thirteen patients (1 man, 12 women; mean age 52 yrs) completed the study, 9 of whom had a history of breast cancer and had received extensive medical treatment, including surgery. A combination of physical and psychological techniques were adapted from previous work in chronic benign pain and implemented by two therapists. Interventions included education, relaxation, exercise training, and goal setting. A variety of outcomes were examined to assess general fitness, psychological distress, coping success, activities of daily living, and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We discuss polarizing a proton beam in a storage ring, either by selective removal or by spin flip of the stored ions. Prompted by recent, conflicting calculations, we have carried out a measurement of the spin-flip cross section in low-energy electron-proton scattering. The experiment uses the cooling electron beam at COSY as an electron target. The measured cross sections are too small for making spin flip a viable tool in polarizing a stored beam. This invalidates a recent proposal to use co-moving polarized positrons to polarize a stored antiproton beam.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Postamputation pain (PAP) affects over 60% of major limb amputees. One of the main challenges in treating PAP is the difficulty involved in identifying pain mechanism(s), which pertains to both residual limb pain (RLP) and phantom limb pain (PLP). In this study, sympathetic blocks were performed on 17 major limb amputees refractory to treatment, including 2 placebo-controlled blocks done for bilateral amputations. One hour postinjection, mean RLP scores at rest declined from 5.2 (SD 2.8) to 2.8 (SD 2.6) (P = .0002), and PLP decreased from 5.3 (SD 3.1) to 2.3 (SD 2.1) (P = .0009). By 1 week, mean pain scores for RLP and PLP were 4.3 (SD 2.9) and 4.2 (SD 3.0), respectively. Overall, 8 of 16 (50%) patients experienced ?50% reduction in RLP 1-hour postinjection, with the beneficial effects ...

Science.gov (United States)

Chronic benign pain is commonly associated with chronic fatigue and depression. Depression and chronic fatigue syndrome are also associated with each other and often include pain. Psychologic factors are prominent in these conditions, and they may share neurobiologic factors as well. Management requires separately addressing each component of patients' distress and usually includes physical rehabilitation, education, administration of nonhabituating medications and often counseling. Depression may be a favorable prognostic sign, as it suggests a treatable condition and provides incentive for recovery. PMID:1876618

Science.gov (United States)

A new method of administration of an opioid was recently registered: fentanyl transdermal (brand name: Durogesic), intended particularly for the indication range 'pain in cancer'. Fentanyl is lipid-soluble so that deposition in the skin takes place and the biological half-life is approximately 20 hours after removal of the plaster. It is safe to start on a basis of an equianalgesic conversion of 100:1 in relation to oral morphine, although this may entail some risk of fentanyl under dosage. The dose adjustment time is 12-24 hours before a constant fentanyl level is reached; therefore, after attaching the first sticking plaster, the original morphine dose should be continued for another 12 hours. In addition, the patient may, if necessary, be given supplementary morphine preferably as a short-acting drug. There seems to be no clear indication for transdermal fentanyl either in neuropathic pain or in chronic benign pain. ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Residual limb pain (RLP) and phantom limb pain (PLP) can be debilitating and can prevent functional gains following amputation. High correlations have been reported between RLP and the stump neuromas following amputation. Many treatment methods including physical therapy, medications, and interventions, have been used with limited success. Pulsed radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) has shown promise in treating neuropathic pain because of the inhibition of evoked synaptic activity. We present 4 amputees who were treated with PRFA after failing conservative management for their RLP and PLP. All 4 patients underwent PRFA and demonstrated at least 80% relief of RLP for over 6 months. One patient reported a complete resolution of phantom sensation while another patient had significantly de...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The physical demands of performing on musical instruments can cause pain, sensory loss, and lack of coordination. Five cases illustrate common problems. Knowledge of the interaction between the technique...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Opinion statementCritical limb ischemia (CLI), defined as chronic ischemic rest pain, ulcers, or gangrene attributable to objectively proven arterial occlusive disease, is the most advanced...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper provides guidance in the definition, documentation, measurement, enhancement of processes, and validation of a strategic plan for configuration management (CM). The approach and methodology used in establishing a strategic plan is the same for any enterprise, including the Department of Energy (DOE), commercial nuclear plants, the Department of Defense (DOD), or large industrial complexes. The principles and techniques presented are used world wide by some of the largest corporations. The authors used industry knowledge and the areas of their current employment to illustrate and provide examples. Developing a strategic configuration and information management plan for DOE Idaho Field Office (DOE-ID) facilities is discussed in this paper. A good knowledge of CM principles is the key to successful strategic planning. This paper will describe and define CM elements, and discuss how CM integrates the facility's physical configuration, design basis, and ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Measuring HPA axis activity is the standard approach to the study of stress and welfare in farm animals. Although the reference technique is the use of blood plasma to measure glucocorticoid hormones (cortisol or corticosterone), several alternative methods such as the measurement of corticosteroids in saliva, urine or faeces have been developed to overcome the stress induced by blood sampling itself. In chronic stress situations, as is frequently the case in studies about farm animal welfare, hormonal secretions are usually unchanged but dynamic testing allows the demonstration of functional changes at several levels of the system, including the sensitization of the adrenal cortex to ACTH and the resistance of the axis to feedback inhibition by corticosteroids (dexamethasone suppression t...

Wastenet

Labeling of organic res- taurants, cantinas, etc.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

1. Ro 15-8081 (Hoffmann-La Roche, Basle, Switzerland) is a novel mixed 5-HT/noradrenaline uptake inhibitor producing potent antinociceptive effects in animal pain models. 2. In healthy man, two models...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... Abstract : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the tooling cost estimating equation of the DAPCA III model and determine if more accurate ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thermoluminescence (TL) dosimetry was used to measure dose effects on the raw stock material of borosilicate container glass from different geographical locations. Effects were studied at times up to 60 days post-irradiation at doses from 0.15 to 20 Gy. The minimum detectable dose using this technique was estimated to be 0.15 Gy which is roughly equivalent to a 24 hr irradiation 1 cm from a 50 ng source of 60Co. Two peaks were identified in the TL glow curve, a relatively unstable peak around 125 C and a more stable peak around 225 C. Differences in TL glow curve shape and intensity were also observed for the glasses from different geographical origins. We investigate radiation induced defects in glass to further develop the technique of intrinsic dosimetry - the measurement of the total absorbed dose received by the walls of a container holding radioactive material. Intrinsic dosimetry is intended to be used as an interrogation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The photoelectric absorption index, I/sub Pe/, is accepted as an accurate measurement for the description of formation lithology. The measured I/sub Pe/ has been shown to deviate slightly for a given lithology because of the effects of porosity. Properly calibrated and measured I/sub Pe/'s, however, have been observed to deviate from predicted values in practice, even considering the influence of porosity. Such departures were traced to variations in borehole size and tool standoff. The nature of the physical method of recording an I/sub Pe/ does not ensure independence from the influence of the borehole environment. A series of laboratory experiments has been conducted in test formations to verify and to characterize the influence of borehole size, mudcake, and standoff on I/sub Pe/ measurement. A set of nomographs has been constructed that allows correction of I/sub Pe/ ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For over 50 years, electron beams have been an important modality for providing an accurate dose of radiation to superficial cancers and disease and for limiting the dose to underlying normal tissues and structures. This review looks at many of the important contributions of physics and dosimetry to the development and utilization of electron beam therapy, including electron treatment machines, dose specification and calibration, dose measurement, electron transport calculations, treatment and treatment-planning tools, and clinical utilization, including special procedures. Also, future changes in the practice of electron therapy resulting from challenges to its utilization and from potential future technology are discussed. (review)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Several short model SSC 50 mm bore dipoles are being built and tested at Fermilab. Mechanical design of these magnets has been determined from experience involved in the construction and testing of 40 mm dipoles. Construction experience includes coil winding, curing and measuring, coil end part design and fabrication, ground insulation, instrumentation, collaring and yoke assembly. Fabrication techniques are explained and construction problems are discussed. Similarities and differences from the 40 mm dipole tooling and management components are outlined. Test results from the first models are presented. 19 refs., 12 figs.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In modern quality engineering, dual response surface methodology is a powerful tool to model an industrial process by using both the mean and the standard deviation of the measurements as the responses. The least squares method in regression is often used to estimate the coefficients in the mean and standard deviation models, and various decision criteria are proposed by researchers to find the optimal conditions. Based on the inherent hierarchical structure of the dual response problems, we propose a Bayesian hierarchical approach to model dual response surfaces. Such an approach is compared with two frequentist least squares methods by using two real data sets and simulated data.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To develop a work in an area with high radiation, it requires of a detailed knowledge of the surroundings work, a communication and effective vision, a near dosimetric control. In a work where the spaces variables and reduced accesses exist, noise that hinders the communication, defendant operative condition, radiation field and taking of decision, it is necessary to have tools that allow a total control of the environment to make opportune and effective decisions, there where the task is developed. Under this elementary concept, it was developed in the Laguna Verde Central a project that it allowed a mechanism, interactive of control in spaces complex; to see, to hear, to speak, to measure. This concept takes to the creation of an equipped system with closed circuit of television, wireless communication systems, tele dosimetry wireless systems, VHS and DVD recording equipment, uninterrupted energy units. The system requires of an electric ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Type 440C stainless steel is a high-C, high-Cr martensitic steel used in applications requiring high hardness and wear resistance in combination with moderate corrosion resistance. Typical applications include precision aerospace bearings and critical components in computer disk drives. The properties of passive films formed on 440C steel were investigated using advanced electrochemical techniques with a view to establishing a method to measure film stability directly in the passivation baths. Electrochemical measurements were sensitive to the passive film properties and were able to quantify the effect of cooling rate on passive film stability. The techniques used included linear polarization, AC impedance, small amplitude cyclic voltammetry, and coulostatic transient measurements. These provided results that exhibited excellent agreement with the AC impedance technique providing the most information about the interfacial ...

Science.gov (United States)

We report here results of an application of single-nucleon stripping reactions at high energies (65 MeV/u) in inverse kinematics to obtain spectroscopic factors. From measurements of the partial cross-sections for ground and excited states in residual nuclei formed in one-proton stripping reactions, single particle orbits and occupancies of light nuclei have been studied in the s-d shell. Single proton stripping cross-sections of {sup 25}Al and {sup 26,27,28}P on a Be target have been measured using the S800 spectrograph and the NaI(Tl) array at the NSCL. These results indicate that this technique may provide a general tool for the intermediate energy range analogous to transfer (pick-up) reactions at low-energy.

CERN Document Server

TRANSVERSE EMITTANCE PRESERVATION IS A MAJOR CONCERN OF THE LHC INJECTOR CHAIN. MINIMISATION OF THE BLOW-UP DUE TO MISMATCH AT INJECTION INTO THE SPS IS THEREFORE MANDATORY. WHILE THE TRANSVERSE POSITIONN OF THE BEAM IN THE SPS INJECTION LINE IS MONITORED BUNCH BY BUNCH BY AN OTR (OPTICAL TRANSITION RADIATION) SCREEN AND A FAST CCD (CHARGED COUPLED DEVICE) CAMERA, THE PHASE SPACE MATCHING AT INJECTION IS MONITORED BY AN OTR BASED MISMATCH MONITOR IN THE SPS RING. ORTHOGONAL TUNING KNOBS WERE DEVELOPED TO TUNE INDEPENDENTLY TWISS PARAMETERS, DISPERSION AND DISPERSION DERIVATIVE. IN THIS PAPER WE DESCRIBE THE MISMATCH CORRECTION MECHANISM AS WELL AS THE TWO MONITORING SYSTEMS. WE REPORT ON FIRST MEASUREMENTS WHICH WERE CARRIED OUT DURING THE 1998 SPS RUN.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this paper we demonstrate the capabilities of our ArcGIS-based software development that includes an adapted database system and a GIS tool for storage, combined analysis and visualization of leveling data and interferometric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) deformation measurements. Preprocessed remote sensing image data are stored with metadata that include all processing routines and parameters. This allows reproduction and traceability of all processing steps. Deformation monitoring is supported through data searching and selection based on a variety of criteria. A methods toolbox allows spatio-temporal analyses for points, lines and areas (e.g. subsidence basins) in a graphical manner.

Science.gov (United States)

The economic benefits of supplemental fuel injections depend, in part, on the coke replacement ratio. An assessment of the accuracy with which blast furnace coke rate may be measured and a determination of the key drivers of coke rate uncertainty are offered, to provide guidance for experiments in high-rate gas injection. Using statistical analysis tools, an expression for the measurement error associated with the various terms of blast furnace carbon balance is developed. Coke rate calculations based on the material balance are most sensitive to coke carbon content and to proper tracking of hot metal tapping schedule.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Objective: To assess dynamic MRI with Gd-DTPA enhancement for evaluating inflammatory changes in the subacromial bursa. Design and patients: We detected the signal intensity changes in dynamic MRI of the subacromial bursa, and confirmed these macroscopically by arthroscopy and histologically. The signal intensity was measured using built-in software, and the enhancement ratio (E ratio) was calculated from dynamic MR images. In addition, as a parameter of the rate of the increase in the signal intensity from 0 to 80 s, the mean increase per second in the E ratio was obtained as the coefficient of enhancement (CE). The correlation was studied of the E ratio and CE with the arthroscopic findings (redness, villous formation, thickening and adhesion), and of the E ratio and CE with the histological findings (capillary proliferation, papillary hyperplasia, fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration) of the subacromial bursa. Of patients with shoulder ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The aim of this review is to evaluate the role of inflammatory spine disease in patients with chronic back pain. The contribution of imaging modalities for the diagnostic evaluation of back pain is discussed. A systematic literature search based on the classification of seronegative spondyloarthropathies and rheumatoid arthritis was performed. The results of this search and the experiences in a large collective of rheumatological patients are analyzed. The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (1-2%) is comparable to that of spondyloarthropathies (1.9%). The etiology of these entities is not fully elucidated. Magnetic resonance imaging is increasingly used for early detection and surveillance of therapy with TNF-#alpha# antagonists. Bone marrow edema, which is only detectable with MRI, represents an early sign of inflammation. Therapy with TNF-#alpha# antagonists is based on clinical and laboratory criteria, and signs of inflammation in MRI. MRI ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The aim of this work is to describe the processes during plasma nitriding of Nb-containing, powder metallurgy prepared (PM) tool steel. PM steel was studied containing 2.5% C, 3.3% Si, 6.2% Cr, 2.2% Mo, 2.6% V, 2.6% Nb and 1.0% W, produced by melt atomization and hot isostatic pressing. The hardened and tempered steel was plasma nitrided at temperatures ranging from 470 to 530 deg. C. The nitriding time was 30-180 min. Optical microscopy, electron microscopy, XRD, EDS, WDS and hardness measurements were used to study the steel's properties, microstructure, phases and chemical composition. The nitriding temperature of 470 deg. C was found to be unsuitable for practical use because the layers prepared at this temperature were non-uniform. The compound layer formed by M_2_,_3(C,N) and M_4N was found after nitriding at temperatures of 500 and 530 deg. C for at least 60 min. The effect of niobium on the formation of this layer was studied.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A three-dimensional mathematical model has been developed as a tool for furnace structure design and operation conditions optimization when the straw combustion is in oxygen-enriched or conventional air atmospheres. Mathematical methods have been used based on a combination of FLIC (A fluid Dynamic Incinerator Code) code for the in-bed incineration and commercial software FLUENT for the over-bed combustion. Oxygen-enriched atmospheres promote the destruction of most pollutants due to the high oxygen partial pressures and temperatures, which is reflected by very low residual amounts of organic combustion by-products in the bottom ash and flue gas of the straw-fired boiler unit. The predictions indicated that the maximum combustion temperature is around 1500 K, CO emission is 201 vppm and O{sub 2} concentration is about 6.9 vol% at furnace exit, and it is shown that mathematical models can serve as a reliable tool for detailed analysis of straw ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In machine condition monitoring many fault-related vibration signals are highly non-stationary. Time-frequency representations comprise the natural signal-processing tool traditionally used for representing such non-stationary signals. The methods used in this analysis are based on the second order statistics of a signal. This paper discusses the use of higher order time frequency methods in the context of a condition monitoring application. The paper outlines the two classes of higher order representations: the L-Wigner distribution and the sliced Wigner higher order distribution. The use of higher order distributions introduces the possibility of non-oscillating cross-terms, a problem not encountered in conventional bilinear time-frequency methods. Techniques for reducing these cross-terms are presented. The paper compares the performance of bilinear and higher order time-frequency methods using synthetic data and vibration signals measured ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Our group is interested in evaluating early effects of dietary interventions on bone loss. Postmenopausal women lose bone following reduction in estrogen which leads to increased risk of fracture. Traditional means of monitoring bone loss and effectiveness of treatments include changes in bone density, which takes 6 months to years to observe effects, and changes in biochemical markers of bone turnover, which are highly variable and lack specificity. Prelabeling bone with {sup 41}Ca and measuring urinary {sup 41}Ca excretion with accelerator mass spectrometry provides a sensitive, specific, and rapid approach to evaluating effectiveness of treatment. To better understand {sup 41}Ca technology as a tool for measuring effective treatments on reducing bone resorption, we perturbed bone resorption by manipulating dietary calcium in rats. We used {sup 3}H-tetracycline ({sup 3}H-TC) as a proxy for {sup 41}Ca and found that a ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures often lead to pain and disability. They can be successfully treated, and possibly prevented, by injecting cement into the vertebral body, a procedure known as vertebroplasty....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a common, painful and disabling condition which is typically slow to resolve. Patients with this condition will be seen in every musculoskeletal practitioner’s...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Cryoanalgesia (the use of cold to provide anesthesia or analgesia) is the oldest anesthetic and analgesic still in current clinical use. Its intraoperative use in providing postoperative analgesia for...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

When attempting to feed on their hosts, ticks face the problem of host hemostasis (the vertebrate mechanisms that prevent blood loss), inflammation (that can produce itching or pain and thus...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundDistraction osteogenesis is the standard treatment for the management of lower limb length discrepancy of more than 3 cm and bone loss secondary to congenital anomalies,...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper discusses the clinical application and main objective of testicular imaging. The authors present cases that represent a spectrum of the abnormalities which might be detected by testicular imaging, with special attention given to testicular torsion and the acute diseases which may mimic it clinically. Accuracy of the test is noted.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Indomethacin, a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been used in the treatment of various kinds of pains, inflammation and arthritis. However, oral administration of indomethacin produces...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Antagonists for kainate receptors (KARs), a family of glutamate-gated ion channels, are efficacious in a number of animal models of neuropathologies, including epilepsy, migraine pain, and anxiety....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A 63-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with a complaint of right lateroabdominal pain. He was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer, and then developed multiple brain embolic infarctions 7...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Pericardial fat necrosis is an infrequent cause of acute chest pain and this can mimic acute myocardial infarction and acute pericarditis. We describe here a patient with the magnetic resonance imaging...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The somatic sensory system responds to stimuli of distinct modalities, including touch, pain, itch, and temperature sensitivity. In the past century, great progress has been made in understanding the...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Local anesthetics are able to induce pain relief by binding to the sodium channels of excitable membranes, blocking the influx of sodium ions and the propagation of the nervous impulse. Ropivacaine...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The first case of human sparganosis in Canada is reported in a 23-year-old woman who emigrated from Greece in 1969. Examination of a ribbon-like worm removed from a painful swelling in the neighbourhood...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background & objectives:Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a painful and vision-threatening ocular infection. The differentiation of Acanthamoeba...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This case describes a 10-year-old girl who developed a Ewing's sarcoma in her proximal fibula. The radiologic features mimicked those of a unicameral bone cyst. The presence of pain and the atypical location led to a prompt biopsy and the correct diagnosis. The mechanism of this unusual radiographic presentation is discussed. (orig.)

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Low back pain is common during pregnancy. However, the prevalence of symtomatic lumbar disc herniation is rare, and cauda equina syndrome due to disc herniation during pregnancy is even rarer. We report...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Multiple disease-specific systematic reviews on the effectiveness of physical therapy intervention for shoulder dysfunction have been inconclusive. To date, there have been two systematic reviews that...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Biliary obstructions are rarely caused by a foreign body and have received sparse attention. We present an unusual case with pruritis and abdominal pain caused by impacted full length surgical gauze...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundBlood sampling through heel lancing is the most common invasive painful procedure performed on newborn infants.Case PresentationWe report...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Seventy seven patients with soft tissue shoulder lesions including adhesive capsulitis and disorders of the rotator cuff and acromioclavicular joint were admitted to a trial comparing two different...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Lumbar epidural anesthesia is useful in a variety of chronic benign pain syndromes, including lumbar radiculopathy, low back pain syndrome, spinal stenosis, and vertebral compression fractures. Given the increased number of epidural nerve blocks being performed, some have reported unexplained complications of a transient or permanent nature and with varying degrees of severity. However, no case has been reported of a broken epidural needle tip retained in the lumbar facet joint area. This represents the first reported case presentation of foraminal stenosis developing in a patient after a retained epidural needle tip. PMID:21286465

Science.gov (United States)

The ability to mechanically reinforce an osteoporotic vertebral body could impede spinal compression fracture and the associated pain and complications. Previous studies have shown that reinforcement of fractured vertebrae with conventional acrylic cement can relieve symptoms and avoid further collapse. In this study, we explored the use of a carbonated apatite cement combined with a minimally invasive injection technique to improve the compressive mechanical properties of cadaveric vertebral bodies. After establishing the biomechanical characteristics of cement formulations intended to have appropriate viscosities, we evaluated the infiltration of the cements into thoracic vertebral bodies using a combined suction-injection technique. The energy-absorption capabilities of the reinforced vertebral bodies were then measured during axial compressive tests and compared with those of nonreinforced vertebrae. The ultimate compressive strength of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nitriding leads to improved tribological and corrosive properties of iron alloy components. In order to study the effect of plasma nitriding parameters on the structure of compound layer and diffusion zone, a systematic variation of process parameters, temperature and process gas atmosphere has been carried out. Metallographic inspection, X-ray diffraction and glow discharge optical spectroscopy analysis (GDOES) were used in this investigation. The results clarified that depending on the amount of nitrogen in the gas atmosphere nitrided layers with and without compound layer can be generated in the surface of M2 tool steel for temperatures from 350 C to 500 C. For plasma nitriding in 5 vol.% Nitrogen and 95 vol.% Hydrogen no compact compound layer was formed. The gas mixture of 76 vol.% Nitrogen resulted in compound layer formation for all temperatures from 350 C to 500 C. X-ray phase analysis indicated an almost 100% {epsilon}-(carbo)nitride phase but the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a simple deformable phantom as a QA tool for testing and validation of deformable image registration algorithms. A diagnostic thoracic imaging phantom with a deformable foam insert was used in this study. Small plastic markers were distributed through the foam to create a lattice with a measurable deformation as the ground truth data for all comparisons. The foam was compressed in the superior-inferior direction using a one-dimensional drive stage pushing a flat 'diaphragm' to create deformations similar to those from inhale and exhale states. Images were acquired at different compressions of the foam and the location of every marker was manually identified on each image volume to establish a known deformation field with a known accuracy. The markers were removed digitally from corresponding images prior to registration. Different image registration algorithms were tested using ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For the expansion to 2.0 MTPY of the CVG Bauxilum alumina plant, the area of clarification and red mud washing was rearranged from four 2-thickener-5-washer trains to two 1-thickener-7-washer trains. As a result of this modification, the specific mud handling capacity of the existing tanks should be increased by almost 3-times. The time allowed for control actions was then significantly reduced, leading to the need of an on-line level detection system, in order to achieve a better and faster control of the operation. With this scope, it was developed and installed a new continuous mud level detector that gives the measurement of both mud and turbid zone levels in the tanks. The development of the new instrument started with an existing instrument for density measurements which was completely re-engineered in order to obtain the maximum readability in the densities founded along the full range of the tank height. Actually 28 tanks are equipped ...

Science.gov (United States)

Metabolic carbon labelling experiments enable a large amount of extracellular fluxes and intracellular carbon isotope enrichments to be measured. Since the relation between the measured quantities and the unknown intracellular metabolic fluxes is given by bilinear balance equations, flux determination from this data set requires the numerical solution of a nonlinear inverse problem. To this end, a general algorithm for flux estimation from metabolic carbon labelling experiments based on the least squares approach is developed in this contribution and complemented by appropriate tools for statistical analysis. The linearization technique usually applied for the computation of nonlinear confidence regions is shown to be inappropriate in the case of large exchange fluxes. For this reason a sophisticated compactification transformation technique for nonlinear statistical analysis is developed. Statistical analysis is then ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis (RXRFA), as a non-destructive method, relatively simple and allowing measurements to be carried out in situ, is an excellent tool in research on various objects of art. A range of artefacts have been investigated by our laboratory, in part for the purposes of history of art and in part as a basis for restoration works - medieval frescoes in some Czech castles and churches, metal sculptures and objects of applied art, paints and inks of old manuscripts, paintings. Some of these are among the most valuable monuments in the Czech cultural heritage. The contribution of the results of the tests to the investigation of their 'life story' and, in some cases, to their conservation, is not negligible. Later additions and repairs can be recognised, and materials and technologies that are close to their historic counterparts can be used in restoration work.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

New York City data indicate that seasonal and annual variations in dispersion-normalized air pollutant concentrations appear to accurately reflect changes in source emission patterns. The normalized concentrations make it possible to observe the impact of regulatory changes on ambient air quality without these impacts being obscured by meteorological fluctuations. It is found that numerical modeling techniques and regression analysis can be powerful tools for extracting information from large sets of air quality data. The use of differential, as opposed to absolute, pollutant concentration values will reduce artifact correlations caused by seasonal, weekly, or daily meteorological fluctuations and will permit more accurate estimation of the regression coefficients. This technique was successfully applied to a set of daily pollution measurements whose absolute concentrations were found not to yield a statistically significant fit by multiple ...

Science.gov (United States)

Four-enzyme section of the shikimate pathway (Aro B, D, E, and K) of Streptococcus pneumoniae has been studied. Kinetic properties of the individual enzymes and three- and four-enzyme linked reactions have been characterized in vitro. On the basis of the data measured in spectrophotometric and LC-MS experiments, kinetic mechanisms of the enzymes have been suggested and all kinetic parameters have been identified. Kinetic models for these three- and four-enzyme sections of the shikimate pathway have been constructed and validated. The model of the four-enzyme section of shikimate pathway has been employed to design an inhibition-sensitive reconstituted pathway for a high-throughput screening effort on the shikimate pathway. It was demonstrated that using the model it was possible to optimize this reconstituted pathway in such a way to provide equal sensitivity of the enzymes to inhibition. PMID:16921527

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We have at hand the tools for development of both a single amino acid substitution and a gene loss type assay for somatic cell mutations in human red cells. We are close to being able to assess the assays as possible means for screening the human population for individuals who may be a risk of acquiring abnormally high frequencies of mutant cells. The cause for such a high frequency of mutant cells could be a prior exposure of the individual to large amount of mutagen, or it could indicate a member of a vulnerable subpopulation that may have poor DNA repair systems. Either of these cases could well be an indication that the particular individual is at high risk that exposure to mutagens could lead to potential pathology. In the near future we expect to determine the reliability of the assays and to perform experiments to confirm the validity of flow cytometry in measuring real somatic mutagenic events that occur in vivo. (orig./AJ).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This study presents results from Monte Carlo radiation transport calculations aimed at characterizing a novel methodology being developed to detect partial defects in Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) spent fuel assemblies (SFAs). The methodology uses a combination of measured neutron and gamma fields inside a spent fuel assembly in an in-situ condition where no movement of the fuel assembly is required. Previous studies performed on single isolated assemblies resulted in a unique base signature that would change when some of the fuel in the assembly is replaced with dummy fuel. These studies indicate that this signature is still valid in the in-situ condition enhancing the prospect of building a practical tool, Partial Defect Detector (PDET), which can be used in the field for partial defect detection.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In situ X-Ray microtomography offers new opportunities for analysing sintering mechanisms since it allows 3D observation of the microstructural evolution of the powder all along a sintering cycle. With synchrotron radiation at ESRF, a 3D image with a resolution of 2 {mu}m can be obtained in about one minute. In addition to the visual examination of the images, relevant microstructural parameters can be measured through quantitative image analysis using recently developed tools. In this paper the results obtained with two materials, loose copper powder and compacted steel powder, are resumed. For copper powder, the dispersion of local parameters such as particle co-ordination number and porosity is investigated. Concerning steel compacts, data about pore morphology evolution and on local strains provides clues for understanding the anisotropic shrinkage of such compacts. (authors)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We report on the improvement of Critical Dimension (CD) linearity on a photomask by applying the concept of process proximity correction to a laser lithographic process used for fabrication of photomasks. Rule-based Laser Process proximity Correction (LPC) was performed using an automated optical proximity correction tool and we obtained dramatic improvement of CD linearity on a photomask. A study on model-based LPC was executed using a two-Gaussian kernel function and we extracted model parameters for the laser lithographic process by fitting the model-predicted CD linearity data with measured ones. Model-predicted bias values of isolated space (I/S), Arrayed Contact (A/C) and Isolated Contact (I/C) were in good agreement with those obtained by the nonlinear curve-fitting method used for the rule-based LPC.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Real-time neutron radiography was demonstrated to be a viable and useful tool in studying water flow in unsaturated media. The experiment was designed to test the method for following water flow. The wetting front advance, water-flow patterns, and neutron attenuation density were observed in a 7.7-cm diameter sand column. The advance was fit with a simple i = A t/sup B/ equation yielding an excellent correlation. Theoretical calculations presented estimate the minimum and maximum detectable water content in various sizes of columns. The ability of real-time neutron radiography to allow both qualitative and quantitative spatial and time measurements to be made in an nonintrusive manner was demonstrated.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Earth degassing specifically of carbon dioxide CO2 is of increasing interest with respect to the global carbon budget, related climate effects, earthquake and volcano eruption mechanisms, as well as plant physiological reactions in gas-rich environments. Investigations in all of these disciplines require the detection of surface CO2 degassing structures and quantification of their emissions. We introduce minimal thermal change detection based on infrared imaging as a new remote sensing tool for the detection of earth surface thermal anomalies suiting among others to discover earth degassing locations of any origin. The method allows for seamless areal search and monitoring of degassing structures in any terrain. As proof of concept infrared imaging measurements were performed at the Bossol...

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The microstructural evolution of a AZ31 Mg alloy during hot rolling has been investigated using optical microscopy and texture (macro and micro) analysis as the main characterization tools. In particular, the differences between the microstructure obtained by unidirectional rolling (UR) and cross rolling (CR) are studied. Significant twinning activity is observed in both cases. Additionally, after cross rolling, a rather heterogeneous microstructure develops, with scattered regions populated by very fine grains. The strong basal fiber texture of the as-received material remains present after both hot rolling schemes. The impossibility to obtain accurate EBSD measurements within the twinned regions suggests that significant localized deformation takes place in those areas. Thus, these regions become preferential sites for the onset of recrystallization due to the increase in the local strain energy. (orig.)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background An emerging imaging tool, the functional lumen imaging probe (Endoflip; Crospon Ltd, Galway, Ireland), provides a real-time measurement of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) capacity and diameter, which would be of particular interest in functional esophageal surgery such as Heller myotomy and antireflux procedures. This study aimed to demonstrate the intraoperative use of endoflip in the treatment of achalasia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods In the first case, Heller myotomy was performed under endopflip guidance, for persistent dysphagia after failed endoscopic dilatation. In the second case, the endoflip was used to calibrate a Nissen fundoplication. With the patient under general anesthesia, the endoflip catheter was inserted orally and positioned to straddle...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Precision agriculture can be cost effective for date palm groves because the tree positions are known and fixed, the groves are mostly structured and many of agricultural operations are applied manually. Therefore, the new technology tools of precision agriculture are not essential. This study was done to improve date palm yield using maps of the variation in tree properties. Data on five Mozafati tree properties, such as sex, age, yield, visual appearance and fruit length were measured and recorded for each tree in five groves near the city of Bam in Iran. Tree positions were defined and the above properties were mapped. It was difficult to judge patterns in the variation because of tree to tree variability. Therefore, the Mamdani fuzzy inference system (MFIS) was used to classify the pro...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Virtualized infrastructure providers demand new methods to increase the accuracy of the accounting models used to charge their customers. Future data centers will be composed of many-core systems that will host a large number of virtual machines (VMs) each. While resource utilization accounting can be achieved with existing system tools, energy accounting is a complex task when per-VM granularity is the goal. In this paper, we propose a methodology that brings new opportunities to energy accounting by adding an unprecedented degree of accuracy on the per-VM measurements. We present a system - which leverages CPU and memory power models based in performance monitoring counters (PMCs) - to perform energy accounting in virtualized systems. The contribution of this paper is threefold. First, w...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Objective: To compare pediatric patients with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) with normal children by using diffusion tensor MR imaging. Methods: Diffusion tensor images were obtained in 15 pediatric patients with PVL and 15 age-matched normal children. Regions of interest were drawn to measure the fractional anisotropy (FA) in bilateral posterior limb of internal capsule, bilateral optic radiation, genu of corpus callosum, and splenium of corpus callosum. The values of PVL patients and normal children were compared using non-dependent samples T-test. Results: The FA values of regions of interest prescribed were significantly lower in PVL patients than in normal children (P<0.01). Conclusion: Diffusion tensor imaging may reveal retard of myelination of fiber tracts in PVL patients. It can be a potential tool in evaluating the brain development of children. (authors)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A comparison is made of the response of a count ratemeter and a pulse counter using the mathematical tool of the Z transform. Transform Z is used for the solution of the convolution integral interpreting the analog output of the count ratemeter used for recording characteristic radiation, excited in the moving beam. The comparison of count rates obtained by the count ratemeter during continuous analysis and the pulse counter during discontinuous measurement gave the transfer function of the count ratemeter in the actual range of count rate. Also discussed is the use of the transfer function for localizing concentration changes in the sample. The use of the described method is demonstrated on the determination of the tin content in tungsten using continuous radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis. (B.S.).

Science.gov (United States)

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common severe gastrointestinal emergency that affects premature newborns. This disease often has a rapid onset with few, if any, antecedent signs that can be used to reliably predict its occurrence. Its rapid onset and progression to death, as well as its severe morbidity when the infant survives, begs for early diagnostic tools that may be used in determining those infants who would be at greatest risk for development of the disease and for whom early preventative measures could be targeted. Although studies have suggested efficacy of several techniques such as breath hydrogen, inflammatory mediators in blood, urine or stool, and genetic markers, these all have drawbacks limiting their use. The application of newly developed "omic" approaches may provide biomarkers for early diagnosis and targeted prevention of this disease. PMID:19190533

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Application of the Geographic Information System (GIS) with a statistical model to evaluate the magnetic field exposure of a population from high-voltage transmission lines near residential areas is discussed, focusing on the interaction of the GIS with the statistical model. In an effort to validate the model measurements of the magnetic field, profiles were taken at two sites and these profiles have been compared with calculated values. Two conclusions have been drawn from the results: (1) the statistical model linked with the GIS is a very powerful tool for the evaluation of exposure of a population to magnetic fields, and (2) success depends on the presence of other sources of magnetic fields and on the exactness of the data used in the model. 4 refs., 5 figs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new prototype model system named AirGIS has been developed to support local authorities in air quality management for big Danish cities. The system is based on the Danish operational street pollution model (OSPM), technical and cadastral digital maps and Danish national administrative databases on buildings, cadastres and populations. It applies a geographic information system (GIS). AirGIS estimates ambient air pollution levels at high temporal and spatial resolutions. The model system enables mapping of traffic emissions, air quality levels and human exposures at residence addresses, at workplace addresses and in streets. Mapping and scenario results can be compared with air quality limits. Impact assessment of traffic air pollution abatement measures can also be carried out. (author)

KoreaScience (Korea)

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Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The advent of sophisticated automation equipment and computer hardware and software is changing the way manufacturing is carried out. To compete in the global marketplace, manufacturing companies must integrate these new technologies into their factories. In addition, they must integrate the planning, control, and data management methodologies needed to make effective use of these technologies. This paper provides an overview of recent approaches to achieving this enterprise integration. It then describes, using simulation as a particular example, a new tool`s perspective of enterprise integration.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this paper is to inform commercial building designers about an energy analysis tool which can aid them in making appropriate decisions about daylighting. The energy nomographs are an energy design tool which calculate the annual energy consumption of commercial buildings, including lighting, heating, cooling, domestic hot water, fans, pumps, and miscellaneous items. This paper specifically discusses the daylighting aspects of the tool. The calculation procedure is presented with an example to explain how this design tool can be used to make good energy decisions early in the design process.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bone scintigraphy was performed in 16 men with newly diagnosed prostatic carcinoma before orchiectomy as well as 2 weeks and 2 months after operation. The uptake in the lower thoracic and lumbar vertebrae was registered up to 240 min after injection of /sup 99m/Tc-MDP and was then calculated for each patient and vertebra. The relative standard deviation in measured uptake due to measuring technique was estimated to be +-7%. In eight patients, who had normal bone scintigraphies before orchiectomy, there were no changes in the uptake values after operation. The remaining eight patients had widespread metastatic involvement prior to treatment, six of these patients showed a so-called 'flare phenomenon' in the abnormal vertebrae which means an initial increase in uptake after operation followed by a decreased uptake in response to therapy. One patient had a continuously increased uptake in all the abnormal vertebrae which ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An engineering tool incorporating a scanning infrared radiometer, an image digitizer, a microcomputer, and the software to drive the system was developed to allow remote mapping of the temperature distribution in solar cavity receivers. Using enclosure analysis, the infrared image processing program extracts the irradiance map from the radiosity map of the cavity to yield an emissive power map. Using the calibration curve of the radiometer and the emissivity of the surface of the cavity, the emissive power map is transformed into a temperature map. The system was tested by comparing its calculated temperatures to temperatures measured by thermocouples at several locations on the surfaces of heated model cavity receivers. The average relative error for the cavities ranged from 4.6%--34.9%, with the relative error on the base usually less than half that on the wall. Some work was also carried out to compensate the detected radiosity field for the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The use of previously measured mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel systems as benchmarks can be valuable tool in computational analysis and quality assurance efforts. The Fissile Materials Disposition Program (FMDP) has identified these experiments as potential benchmarks, or standards, for VVER's employing MOX fuel. Standards for the analysis of these benchmark experiments were based on those used in the recent compilation International Handbook of Evaluated Criticality Safety Benchmark Experiments begun in 1992 by the U.S. Department of Energy. The Los Alamos National Laboratory's archives were explored for log-book records of these experiments without success. These experiments were the first to use MOX fuel in light water. Three approach-to-critical experiments were performed using fuel rods at various pitches and different plutonium-oxide concentrations. A parallel program verified the prediction of critical condition as similar materials and ...

CERN Document Server

The expression levels of many thousands of genes can be measured simultaneously by DNA microarrays (chips). This novel experimental tool has revolutionized research in molecular biology and generated considerable excitement. A typical experiment uses a few tens of such chips, each dedicated to a single sample - such as tissue extracted from a particular tumor. The results of such an experiment contain several hundred thousand numbers, that come in the form of a table, of several thousand rows (one for each gene) and 50 - 100 columns (one for each sample). We developed a clustering methodology to mine such data. In this review I provide a very basic introduction to the subject, aimed at a physics audience with no prior knowledge of either gene expression or clustering methods. I explain what genes are, what is gene expression and how it is measured by DNA chips. Next I explain what is meant by "clustering" and how we analyze ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Accurate dose calculation in radiation treatment planning is most important for successful treatment. Since human body is composed of various materials and not an ideal shape, it is not easy to calculate the accurate effective dose in the patients. Many methods have been proposed to solve inhomogeneity and surface contour problems. Monte Carlo simulations are regarded as the most accurate method, but it is not appropriate for routine planning because it takes so much time. Pencil beam kernel based convolution/superposition methods were also proposed to correct those effects. Nowadays, many commercial treatment planning systems have adopted this algorithm as a dose calculation engine. The purpose of this study is to verify the accuracy of the dose calculated from pencil beam kernel based treatment planning system comparing to Monte Carlo simulations and measurements especially in inhomogeneous region. Home-made inhomogeneous phantom, Helax-TMS ver. 6.0 and Monte ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes the results of a program conducted at the Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) and Westinghouse Hanford Company (WHC) to identify alternative methods to measure the surface level in the waste tanks. This program examined commercially available devices for measuring the distance to a target. This is a continuation of a program started in FY93. In the first test sequence, tests were performed.on five devices to determine their applicability to measure the surface level in the waste tanks. The devices were the Enraf-Nonius{trademark} Model 872 Radar Gauge, the Enraf-Nonius{trademark} Model 854 Advanced Technology Gauge (ATG), the Stanley Tool Laser Measuring Device, the Robertshaw Inven-Tel{reg_sign} Precision Level Gauge, and the Micro Switch Model 942 Acoustic Sensor. In addition, discussions were held with several manufacturer representatives regarding other ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We aimed to investigate the effects of local anesthetics soaked in Merocel nasal packs on hemorrhage and pain after septoplasty. The methodology includes a prospective double-blind study that was conducted in patients undergoing septoplasty because of nasal septal deviation. The study included 143 patients. The patients were divided into four groups. Each group received 1% lidocaine?+?0.000625% adrenalin, 0.375% ropivacaine, 0.25% bupivacaine as study groups or 0.9% sodium chloride as a control group in their Merocel packs postoperatively. The local anesthetics or sodium chloride were reapplied at the eighth postoperative hour. Each patient was given a questionnaire where verbal analog score and amount of postoperative hemorrhage was noted. The statistical analysis was performed using two ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Introduction: Transduodenal ampullectomy (TDA) can be performed for benign and premalignant tumors of the ampulla of Vater (AOV) as an alternative to pancreaticoduodenectomy. However, the laparoscopic approach has rarely been attempted. In this report 2 cases of benign ampullary tumor that were treated by totally laparoscopic TDA. Patients and Methods: Case 1 was of a 75-year-old female who was admitted with left knee pain and underwent arthroscopic debridement. On postoperative day 6, she showed elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase, aspirate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, without any other laboratory test abnormality. She had no complaint of abdominal pain, and physical examinations were unremarkable. Computed tomography (CT), magnet...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Pyogenic sacroiliitis is a rare entity in children. Diagnosis is often delayed because of its variable clinical presentation, low suspicion by the examining physician, and rare findings on radiographs. Delayed diagnosis, however, results in complications such as iliopsoas abscess. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl hospitalized with a 21-day history of fever, pain in the left iliac fossa, and flexion contracture of the hip. On examination, she had fever (38.9 ^oC), psoitis, localized tenderness at the left sacroiliac joint, and pain elicited by lateral compression of the pelvis. The abdominal examination was normal. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 130mm in the first hour, C-reactive protein was 186mg/l, and the white blood cell count was 18,400/mm^3, with 79% neutrophils. Urin...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The aim with this project sponsored by Energimyndigheten is to develop a method for calculations of grate boilers fueled by bark. This report describes this project, 'Evaluation Method for Grate Combustion' (EMGC). CFD codes is an engineering tool applicable in the area of the over-grate section called the furnace. This part of the boiler is easy to model for an experienced CFD code user and the results are usually quite satisfactory for evaluating the combustion process in general. Various gas phases reactions and related combustion processes over the burning bed can be simulated including air staging, fuel staging and SNCR. However the simulation needs information of amount and properties of the burning bed products, entering the furnace. The simulation of the in-furnace processes without this information is often just a numerical speculation. A predictive mathematical model based on physical and chemical data for the grate and fuel bed would ...

Science.gov (United States)

The principles of modern pesticide residue chemistry were articulated in the 1950s. Early authors pointed out the advantages of systematizing and standardizing analytical methods for pesticides so that they could be widely practiced and the results could be reproduced from one laboratory to the next. The availability of improved methods has led to a much more complete understanding of pesticide behavior and fate in foods and the environment. Using methods based largely upon gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled increasingly with mass spectrometry (MS) and MS(n) as the detection tool, residues can be measured at parts per billion levels and below in a variety of food and environmental matrices. Development of efficient extraction and cleanup methods, techniques such as ELISA, efficient sample preparation techniques such as QuEChERS, and automated laboratory and field instrumentation has also ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We have recently introduced several important improvements in the measurement of distillation curves for complex fluids. This new method is a significant improvement over current approaches, with features including a composition-explicit data channel for each distillate fraction (for both qualitative and quantitative analysis), trace chemical analysis of each distillate fraction, and a corrosivity assessment of each distillate fraction. In the present contribution, we present the application of the advanced distillation curve method to a bio-derived crude oil prepared from swine manure. One motivation behind the work was to precisely measure the distillation curve of the oil derived from swine manure with our advanced distillation apparatus and compare the bio-derived oil to traditional petroleum crude oils. Then, the information content of the bio-derived oil distillation was extended further with the composition-explicit data channel: gas ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The work presented here demonstrates the ability of proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) to perform fast-response measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (including methanol, acetonitrile, acetaldehyde, acetone, PAN-type compounds, alpha- and beta-pinene, nopinone and pinonaldehyde) at the pptv level and its versatile applicability in the field of environmental trace gas analysis. Laboratory and field experiments including various calibration techniques and intercomparisons with other measurement techniques such as gas chromatography, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy were performed providing a first characterization of the PTR-MS instrument performance (sensitivity, detection limit, precision, accuracy). Typically a detection limit (S/N=2) of 50 pptv for a 10 s signal integration time, a precision of 5 % and an accuracy in the range between 10 and 25 % were ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

DNA transposons are efficient tools in transgenesis and have therefore become popular in the analysis of the regulatory genome in vertebrates via enhancer trap screens. Here, I discuss recent progress...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

In 2008, a clinical information tool was developed and embedded in the electronic health record system of an academic medical center. In 2009, the initial information tool, Clinical-e, was superseded...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Adopting the approach taken with New Caledonian crows (Corvus moneduloides), we present evidence of design complexity in one of the termite-fishing tools of chimpanzees (Pan...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Short communication.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

AbstractIn a previous study using male rats, a correlation was found between the development of “at-level” allodynia in T6-7 dermatomes following severe T8 spinal contusion...Full Text Available

Wastenet

... 03/08/2011 Professor named Chair at Epworth Hospital Professor Nilmini Wickramasinghe from the College of Business at RMIT University has been named Epworth Chair, Health Information Management , by Epworth HealthCare. 26/07/2011 Study investigates drug-free relief for tension headaches As Australia marks its first National Pain Week ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundPostherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a painful and difficult to treat complication of acute herpes zoster. Current treatment options provide only partial relief and are often...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

We present jFuzz, a automatic testing tool for Java programs. jFuzz is a concolic whitebox fuzzer,

Science.gov (United States)

Abstract: HARVEST was designed as a strategic research and planning tool, allowing assessment of the spatial pattern consequences of broad timber management ...

Science.gov (United States)

... Dynamics) environment (ref. 13) to work seamlessly with their flagship products, MSC.Nastran and MSC.Patran. In addition ...

Science.gov (United States)

Many cost estimating tools use weight as a major parameter in projecting the cost. This is often

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper demonstrates an application of advanced decision support tools within the framework of the environmental information system of the Province of Milan. These tools include environmental simulation models, multi criteria analysis, risk analysis and environmental accounting for marketable emission permits. After describing the general structure of the system, three demonstrational case studies are introduced concerning: groundwater pollution management; atmospheric pollution management; urban environmental quality perception and management. In the conclusion, potential use of tools like the ones implemented by the province of Milan within the framework of Local Agenda 21 processes is recalled.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

Science.gov (United States)

... Examples include magnetic forming tools, magnetic shielding, magnetohydrodynamic propulsion systems, and various magnetic containment ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the framework of nuclear waste transmutation studies, the Mini-INCA project has been initiated at CEA/DSM with objectives to determine optimal conditions for transmutation and incineration of minor actinides (MA) in high intensity neutron fluxes. Our experimental tools based on alpha- and gamma-spectroscopy of the samples and the development of micro fission chambers could gather either microscopic information on nuclear reactions (total or partial cross sections for neutron capture and/or fission reactions) or macroscopic information on transmutation and incineration potentials. Neutron capture cross sections of selected actinides ({sup 241}Am, {sup 242}Am, {sup 242}Pu, {sup 237}Np) have already been measured at ILL, showing some discrepancies when compared to evaluated data libraries but in overall good agreement with recent data. The studies and possibilities offer by the MEGAPIE project to assess neutronic performances of a 1 MW ...

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesWe have developed a life cycle perspective inspired conceptual model (CM) that suggests the importance of terrestrial ecosystems as a major repository of ZnO, TiO2, and Ag (Tier 1) manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs) introduced via the land application of MNM-containing biosolids. We propose to investigate the transport, fate, behavior, bioavailability, and effects of MNMs in(to) agroecosystems under environmentally realistic scenarios organized around three key hypotheses: Hypothesis (H1) Surface [continued...]DescriptionWe have developed a life cycle perspective inspired conceptual model (CM) that suggests the importance of terrestrial ecosystems as a major repository of ZnO, TiO2, and Ag (Tier 1) manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs) introduced via the land application of MNM-containing biosolids. We propose to investigate the transport, fate, behavior, bioavailability, and effects of MNMs in(to) agroecosystems under environmentally realistic scenarios organized around three key ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Several types of coatings have previously been visually identified on the surface of 105-K East and 105-K West Basins fuel elements. One type of coating (found only in K West Basin) in particular was found to be a thick translucent material that was often seen to be dislodged from the elements as flakes when the elements were handled during visual examinations (Pitner 1997). Subsequently it was determined (for one element only in a hot cell) that this material, in the dry condition, could easily be removed from the element using a scraping tool. The coating was identified as Al(OH){sub 3} through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses and to be approximately 60 {micro}m thick via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). However, brushing under water in the basin using numerous mechanical strokes failed to satisfactorily remove these coatings in their thickest form as judged by appearance. Such brushing was done with only one type of metal brush, a brush design previously ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The standards mapping methods are limited by the lack of information between surface measures and wells profiles. The cross well seismic survey has proven being an effective high-resolution method for reservoirs characterization due its high frequency band. In this work, a 2-D finite differences algorithm for numerical cross well seismic simulation was developed, based in the approach of 2nd order for the time derivatives and 4th order for the space derivatives. In relation to the imaging techniques, it was introduced a reverse time migration method based in the solutions of the wave equation in time for cross well seismic data by the method of the finite differences exclusively. The results of reverse time migration has showed that layers with 90 cm thickness for P-waves could be visualized in migrated sections with excellent resolution. The high frequency cross well seismic data combined with reverse time migration have the potential for revealing never seeing ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The performance of the gas-jet transport system coupled to the RIKEN gas-filled recoil ion separator GARIS was investigated using 255No produced in the 238U(22Ne, 5n)255No reaction. Alpha particles of 255No separated with GARIS and transported by the gas-jet system were measured with a rotating wheel apparatus for ? spectrometry under low background condition. The high gas-jet efficiencies of about 75% were independent of the recoil ranges of 255No in the gas-jet chamber. The present results suggest that the GARIS/gas-jet system is a promising tool for the next-generation superheavy element chemistry: (1) the background radioactivities of unwanted reaction products are strongly suppressed, (2) the intense beam is absent in the gas-jet chamber and hence the high gas-jet efficiency is achieved, and (3) the beam-free condition also allows for investigations of new chemical systems. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The studies reported here used genetic differences in susceptibility of C57BL/6N and C3H/HeN mice and exacerbation of the disease by nitrogen dioxide (NO/sub 2/) as tools in assessing the role of early host responses in the pathogenesis of MRM. The two strains did not differ in susceptibility to infection, but C3H/HeN mice were more susceptible to and had increased severity of lung lesions 14 days after intranasal inoculation as determined by 50% biological endpoints and morphometric analysis of tissues. Exposure to NO/sub 2/ for 4 hours prior to exposure to infectious aerosols exacerbated murine respiratory mycoplasmosis (MRM) by 7 days after exposure in both mouse strains. NO/sub 2/ appeared to affect host lung defense mechanisms responsible for limiting mycoplasmal growth in the lungs. The NO/sub 2/ exposure concentration required for this effect varied with the genetic background of the host, the dose of mycoplasmas administered, and the endpoint ...

Science.gov (United States)

Intrinsic spherical aberrations of electron lenses have been the major resolution limiting factor in electron microscopes for several decades. While effective correctors have recently been implemented, an alternative to correct these aberrations is to circumvent them by scaling down lens dimensions by several orders of magnitude. We have fabricated electrostatic lenses exhibiting one micrometer diameter apertures and evaluated their beam forming properties against predictions from numerical ray tracing simulations. It turns out that it is routinely possible to shape a paraxial low-energy electron beam by such micron-sized lenses. Beam profiles have been measured both at a distant detector as well as in a plane close to the lens. It is shown that the lens can form a parallel beam extending no more than 800 nm from the optical axes at a distance of 200 microm beyond the lens exit. We believe that these findings constitute a prerequisite to derive novel ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A project on the title is a special study of TRC (Technology Research Center) Japan National Oil Corporation, which aims at developing a system collecting many data near well bottom while drilling. The project is a 3-year project from 1993 to 1995 succeeding to results of a project on real-time drilling control technology which was finished in fiscal 1992. This paper is a record in fiscal 1993. In 1993, the first year, TRC starts a joint study with relational enterprises aiming at utilizing an EM-MWD (electromagnetic-measurement while drilling) system practically. Based on the past fruit of the study, the EM-MWD system was applied to an highly inclined well or a horizontal well. A total system was constructed, which improved electromagnetic radiation transmission efficiency, and reliability, and workability. An electromagnetic radiation receiver system for an offshore drilling rig was developed. A well bottom tools of 6-3/4 inches outer ...

CERN Document Server

A distinct feature of Coulomb gauge QCD is that it can be formulated in terms of physical, transverse gluons and quarks alone. The state-counting is then transparent, and the gauge is suited for studies of the excited spectrum. Leaving aside exotic spectroscopy, which has been the subject of other publications, in this note I call attention on two recent applications. One is that the running quark mass in the mid-infrared can be probed from excited baryons thanks to parity doubling, a consequence of insensitivity to chiral symmetry breaking. Fast quarks are asymptotically free and behave as massless, so hadrons containing fast quarks decouple from the condensate. Their (power-law) rate of decoupling reflects on the rate of decreasing parity splittings, which can be measured. The second is that, in analogy with the Franck-Condon principle of molecular physics, the velocity distribution of the heavy quarks inside a heavy hadron can be mapped out by the velocity ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bluestein's Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), commonly called the Chirp-Z Transform (CZT), is a little-known algorithm that offers engineers a high-resolution FFT combined with the ability to specify bandwidth. In the field of digital signal processing, engineers are always challenged to detect tones, frequencies, signatures, or some telltale sign that signifies a condition that must be indicated, ignored, or controlled. One of these challenges is to detect specific frequencies, for instance when looking for tones from telephones or detecting 60-Hz noise on power lines. The Goertzel algorithm described in Embedded Systems Programming, September 2002, offered a powerful tool toward finding specific frequencies faster than the FFT.Another challenge involves analyzing a range of frequencies, such as recording frequency response measurements, matching voice patterns, or displaying spectrum information on the face of an amateur radio. To meet ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Research and experimental development comprise innovative and creative work undertaken systematically to increase the stock of knowledge of science, engineering, and society. This knowledge reserve is used to improve living conditions and standards, including economic growth. Research and development (R&D) expenditures are useful measures of the scale and direction of technological innovation within a country, industry, or scientific field. Administrators concerned with economic growth and performance rely on R&D statistics as one possible type of indicator of technological change. R&D statistics are an essential tool in many government programs and evaluations (OECD 1993). The objective of the analysis was to identify and evaluate R&D funding sources, levels, and trends in the energy sectors of selected industrialized countries (Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, ...