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Sample records for cogollo arrepollado bts

  1. Model Lokasi Menara BTS ditinjau dari Faktor – faktor penentu lokasi Menara BTS di Surabaya

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dynastya Dynastya

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available Perkembangan tower Base Transceiver Station (BTS di Kota Surabaya berlangsung sangat pesat. Keberadaan tower BTS yang mulai menjamur di kawasan permukiman mengakibatkan protes dari masyarakat yang takut akan dampak negatif tower BTS. Perkembangan jumlah penggunaan telepon genggam di kota Surabaya dapat diasumsikan bahwa kebutuhan jaringan komunikasi nirkabel bertambah. Untuk mengatur hal tersebut diperlukan adanya suatu pengendalian tower BTS di Kota Surabaya untuk meminimalisasi gangguan terhadap estetika kota. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk merumuskan hubungan faktor penentu lokasi menara BTS terhadap lokasi menara BTS di Surabaya dengan menggunakan kajian teoritis dari berbagai pustaka.  Faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi persebaran lokasi tower BTS tersebut kemudian diiterasi menurut pendapat pakar dengan menggunakan analisa delphi. Yang kemudian digunakan untuk menyusun hubungannya dengan lokasi tower BTS dengan analisa regresi logistik. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah faktor-faktor yang menjadi penentu lokasi tower BTS, yang menurut konsensus pakar adalah faktor faktor kepadatan penduduk, biaya sewa lahan, ketinggian menara, jenis lokasi menara, faktor pola ruang, faktor keamanan, dan faktor coverage service area. Hasil konsensus tersebut kemudian dianalisis dengan analisa regresi logistik sehingga menghasilkan model regresi yang menunjukkan peluang faktor yang berpengaruh dan seberapa besar pengaruhnya terhadap lokasi menara BTS.

  2. Model Lokasi Menara BTS Ditinjau Dari Faktor – Faktor Penentu Lokasi Menara BTS Di Surabaya

    OpenAIRE

    Dynastya, Dynastya; Sulistyarso, Haryo

    2013-01-01

    Perkembangan tower Base Transceiver Station (BTS) di Kota Surabaya berlangsung sangat pesat. Keberadaan tower BTS yang mulai menjamur di kawasan permukiman mengakibatkan protes dari masyarakat yang takut akan dampak negatif tower BTS. Perkembangan jumlah penggunaan telepon genggam di kota Surabaya dapat diasumsikan bahwa kebutuhan jaringan komunikasi nirkabel bertambah. Untuk mengatur hal tersebut diperlukan adanya suatu pengendalian tower BTS di Kota Surabaya untuk meminimalisasi gangguan te...

  3. Verslag BTS 2009

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Boois, de I.J.; Bol, R.A.

    2009-01-01

    In 2009 is de beam trawl survey (BTS) uitgevoerd met de Tridens II en de Isis in opdracht van het ministerie van LNV. In dit rapport staan de resultaten van de survey alsmede de reisverslagen van de reizen op beide schepen. De gegevens van de BTS worden onder andere gebruikt in de

  4. Reisverslag BTS 2013

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Boois, de I.J.; Teal, L.R.; Os-Koomen, van E.; Pasterkamp, T.L.

    2013-01-01

    In 2013, the beam trawl survey (BTS) was carried out by Tridens II and Isis. The survey is part of the EU Data Collection Framework (DCF). This report describes the results and contains the cruise reports of the trips. The results for sole and plaice in the BTS are used by the ICES assessment

  5. Penataan Menara BTS (Cell Planning)

    OpenAIRE

    Prijono, Wahyu Adi

    2010-01-01

    Penataan menara/BTS merupakan proses master plan penataan menara telekomunikasi seluler berdasarkan estetika dan kesesuaian dengan KKOP ( Kawasan Keselamatan Operasional Penerbangan ) dan tata ruang wilayah suatu daerah guna mendapatkan jumlah menara yang optimal di suatu wilayah.Penataan Menara Master plan meliputi, analisis potensi pengguna telepon seluler sampai 5 tahun ke depan, Prediksi deman BTS, perhitungan kapasitas BTS 5 tahun kedepan, pemetaan pola penataan pemakaian menara / tower ...

  6. Ensilaje de cogollo de caña quemado y ensilaje de maíz en la ceba de novillos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sánchez G. Hugo

    1990-12-01

    Full Text Available Se ensiló cogollo de caña quemado, usando como aditivos melazas al 3% y úrea al 1% en base fresca. Los tratamientos consistieron en una combinación de ensilaje de cogollo quemado y ensilaje de maíz como dieta básica a voluntad y dos suplementos que contenían 1.5 kg de gallinaza, 1.0 kg de melaza y/o 0.1 kg de úrea para el tratamiento uno y 0.4 kg de torta de soya para el tratamiento dos, con nueve novillos cebú mestizos por tratamiento. Las ganancias de peso diario fueron de 0.52 y 0.54 kg; y los consumos de materia seca por animal de 11.37 y 11.01 kg/día para los tratamientos uno y dos respectivamente. La factibilidad del uso del cogollo de caña depende de la eficiencia de los procesos de ensilado y de la suplementación adecuada y de bajo costo.Were used burned sugar cane tops silage with 3 % of molasses and 1% of urea on fresch base and com silage as basic diet. The treatments were as follow: Treatment 1 (t1 - Burned sugar cane tops silage + Com Silage + 1.5 kg of poultry litter + 1.0 kg of molasse + 0.1 kg of urea and 0.4 kg of soybean meal by urea for treatment 2 (T2, with nine crossbreed steers for treatment. The average daily gains were 0.52 and 0.54 and 0.54 kg/day and the total consumption per animal were 11.37 and 11.01 kg/day for TI and T2 respectively. The use of sugar cane tops depends on silage process efficiency and the adition of adecuate supplements with low prices.

  7. Are BTS guidelines followed?

    Science.gov (United States)

    2002-03-01

    In 1993, the British Thoracic Society (BTS) issued guidelines for the management of spontaneous pneumothorax. The study's aim was to determine the level of adherence to these guidelines at a London teaching hospital. A retrospective case note audit of 59 episodes was performed. In patients undergoing intervention, the initial procedure was simple aspiration in 32 (73 per cent) and chest tube insertion in 12 (27 per cent) cases, contrasting with the BTS recommendation that aspiration should be attempted first in all such patients. Simple aspiration was successful on 34 per cent of occasions. Successful aspiration was associated with a significantly shorter hospital stay (median 3, range 1-11 days) than either failed aspiration (7, 3-66 days) or chest tube insertion without aspiration (9, 3-16 days). Other areas where practice differed from the BTS guidelines were clamping of chest tubes and use of a pursestring suture for wound closure. A follow up questionnaire suggested a lack of familiarity with the guidelines. These findings indicate that current management of spontaneous pneumothorax deviates from the BTS guidelines in potentially important respects.

  8. SURVEI TOPOGRAFI UNTUK MENENTUKAN GARIS TAMPAK PANDANG BASE TRANSCEIVER STATION (BTS

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Arief Laila Nugraha

    2012-02-01

    Full Text Available Base Transceiver Station (BTS representation one of appliance of supporter of telecommunicationsnetwork. The development of BTS have to each other in circuit by other BTS or which have been planned.The situation BTS in circuit between other BTS without obstacle are called Line of Sight (LoS. Thetopographic survey is method of survey work to make sure the Line of Sight BTS. The topographic surveyconsist of GPS survey and study map for determination of high of BTS antenna and the Line of Sight ofBTS can be made.

  9. Glucose-lowering effect of BTS 67 582.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Page, T; Bailey, C J

    1997-12-01

    1. The hypoglycaemic effect of BTS 67 582 (1,1-dimethyl-2(2-morpholinophenyl) guanidine fumarate) was studied in normal rats. 2. BTS 67 582 (100 mg kg(-1), p.o.) acutely lowered basal plasma glucose concentrations: onset within 1 h, maximum decrease of >40% at 2-3 h, and partial return to euglycaemia by 5 h. Plasma insulin concentrations were increased: onset within 30 min, maximum increase 3 fold at 1-2 h; returning to normal by 5 h. 3. BTS 67 582 (100 mg kg(-1)) increased (by 56%) the rate of disappearance of plasma glucose during an intravenous glucose tolerance test, accompanied by a 51% increase in insulin concentrations. 4. During hyperglycaemic clamp studies BTS 67 582 (100 mg kg(-1)) increased glucose utilization 3 fold. This was associated with a 3 fold increase in insulin concentrations, even in the presence of adrenaline at a dosage which inhibits glucose-induced insulin release. 5. When the insulin-releasing effect of BTS 67 582 (100 mg kg(-1)) was inhibited by infusion of somatostatin, there was no effect on glycaemia. 6. Insulin-dependent diabetic BB/S rats, which do not produce endogenous insulin, showed no effect of BTS 67 582 (100 mg kg(-1)) on plasma glucose concentrations in the presence or absence of exogenous insulin. 7. The results demonstrate an acute hypoglycaemic effect of BTS 67 582 which appears to result mainly from its potent insulin-releasing action.

  10. Artificial Intelligence based technique for BTS placement

    Science.gov (United States)

    Alenoghena, C. O.; Emagbetere, J. O.; Aibinu, A. M.

    2013-12-01

    The increase of the base transceiver station (BTS) in most urban areas can be traced to the drive by network providers to meet demand for coverage and capacity. In traditional network planning, the final decision of BTS placement is taken by a team of radio planners, this decision is not fool proof against regulatory requirements. In this paper, an intelligent based algorithm for optimal BTS site placement has been proposed. The proposed technique takes into consideration neighbour and regulation considerations objectively while determining cell site. The application will lead to a quantitatively unbiased evaluated decision making process in BTS placement. An experimental data of a 2km by 3km territory was simulated for testing the new algorithm, results obtained show a 100% performance of the neighbour constrained algorithm in BTS placement optimization. Results on the application of GA with neighbourhood constraint indicate that the choices of location can be unbiased and optimization of facility placement for network design can be carried out.

  11. Artificial Intelligence based technique for BTS placement

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Alenoghena, C O; Emagbetere, J O; 1 Minna (Nigeria))" data-affiliation=" (Department of Telecommunications Engineering, Federal University of Techn.1 Minna (Nigeria))" >Aibinu, A M

    2013-01-01

    The increase of the base transceiver station (BTS) in most urban areas can be traced to the drive by network providers to meet demand for coverage and capacity. In traditional network planning, the final decision of BTS placement is taken by a team of radio planners, this decision is not fool proof against regulatory requirements. In this paper, an intelligent based algorithm for optimal BTS site placement has been proposed. The proposed technique takes into consideration neighbour and regulation considerations objectively while determining cell site. The application will lead to a quantitatively unbiased evaluated decision making process in BTS placement. An experimental data of a 2km by 3km territory was simulated for testing the new algorithm, results obtained show a 100% performance of the neighbour constrained algorithm in BTS placement optimization. Results on the application of GA with neighbourhood constraint indicate that the choices of location can be unbiased and optimization of facility placement for network design can be carried out

  12. Optimasi Penempatan Menara BTS Menggunakan Quantum-Behaved Particle Swarm Optimization

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mohamad Fatkhur Rohman

    2016-11-01

    Full Text Available Universal Mobile Telecomunication System (UMTS saat ini dipandang sebagai sebuah sistem impian yang menggantikan Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM dan merupakan salah satu evolusi generasi ketiga (3G dari jaringan mobile. Salah satu komponen pendukung jaringan UMTS adalah Node B, Node B dapat dianalogikan sebagai BTS. Seiring perkembangan kebutuhan pelanggan yang semakin meningkat, kebutuhan akan BTS(Node B semakin bertambah, hal ini menyebabkan banyaknya jumlah menara BTS da menyebabkan pemandangan yang kurang bagus bagi visualisasi kota.oleh karena itu perlu dilakukan optimisasi penempatan menara BTS. Salah satu metode untuk mengoptimasi adalah Quantum-behaved Particle Swarm Optimization. Maka dalam penelitian ini akan dirancang simulasi optimasi penempatan BTS menggunakan QPSO dengan parameter yang akan dioptimasi adalah Coverage Area dan Trafik. Dari hasil penelitian yang dilakukan, Algoritma QPSO mampu mengurangi jumlah BTS dari 55 BTS menjadi 43 BTS.

  13. Survei Topografi Untuk Menentukan Garis Tampak Pandang Base Transceiver Station (Bts)

    OpenAIRE

    Laila Nugraha, Arief; Sudarsono, Bambang

    2008-01-01

    Base Transceiver Station (BTS) representation one of appliance of supporter of telecommunicationsnetwork. The development of BTS have to each other in circuit by other BTS or which have been planned.The situation BTS in circuit between other BTS without obstacle are called Line of Sight (LoS). Thetopographic survey is method of survey work to make sure the Line of Sight BTS. The topographic surveyconsist of GPS survey and study map for determination of high of BTS antenna and the Line of Sigh...

  14. The Cogollo Group and the oceanic anoxic events 1a and 1b, Maracaibo basin, Venezuela

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    José Alejandro Méndez Dot

    Full Text Available ABSTRACTCarbonates of Cogollo Group (Apón, Lisure and Maraca formations constitute the broader calcareous platform system originated during Aptian and Albian of Cretaceous in north-western South America, Maracaibo Basin, Venezuela. On the shallow shelf, a variety of calcareous sedimentary facies were deposited during marine transgressive and regressive cycles. Some of them developed porosity and constitute important hydrocarbon reservoirs. Due to some major marine transgressions, from early Aptian, the anoxic environment and characteristic facies of a pelagic environment moved from the outer slope and basin to the shallow shelf, during specific time intervals, favouring the sedimentation of organic matter-rich facies, which correspond to the oceanic anoxic events (OAEs 1a and 1b. The source rock of Machiques Member (Apón Formation was deposited during early Aptian OAE 1a (~ 120 Ma. The source rock of Piché Member, located at the top of the Apón Formation, was deposited during late Aptian OAE 1b (~ 113 Ma. Finally, La Luna Formation, from Cenomanian, that covers the OAE 2 (~ 93 Ma, represents the most important source rock in the Maracaibo Basin. In this way and based on sedimentological and organic geochemistry results from the determinations performed on 247 samples belonging to six cores in the Maracaibo Basin, we propose these two organic-rich levels, deposited on the shallow shelf of the Cogollo Group, as "effective source rocks", additional to La Luna Formation, with oil migration in relatively small distances to the porosity facies.

  15. BRUTUS and its paralogs, BTS LIKE1 and BTS LIKE2, encode important negative regulators of the iron deficiency response in Arabidopsis thaliana.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hindt, Maria N; Akmakjian, Garo Z; Pivarski, Kara L; Punshon, Tracy; Baxter, Ivan; Salt, David E; Guerinot, Mary Lou

    2017-07-19

    Iron (Fe) is required for plant health, but it can also be toxic when present in excess. Therefore, Fe levels must be tightly controlled. The Arabidopsis thaliana E3 ligase BRUTUS (BTS) is involved in the negative regulation of the Fe deficiency response and we show here that the two A. thaliana BTS paralogs, BTS LIKE1 (BTSL1) and BTS LIKE2 (BTSL2) encode proteins that act redundantly as negative regulators of the Fe deficiency response. Loss of both of these E3 ligases enhances tolerance to Fe deficiency. We further generated a triple mutant with loss of both BTS paralogs and a partial loss of BTS expression that exhibits even greater tolerance to Fe-deficient conditions and increased Fe accumulation without any resulting Fe toxicity effects. Finally, we identified a mutant carrying a novel missense mutation of BTS that exhibits an Fe deficiency response in the root when grown under both Fe-deficient and Fe-sufficient conditions, leading to Fe toxicity when plants are grown under Fe-sufficient conditions.

  16. Alteration of Sequence Specificity of the Type IIS Restriction Endonuclease BtsI

    OpenAIRE

    Guan, Shengxi; Blanchard, Aine; Zhang, Penghua; Zhu, Zhenyu

    2010-01-01

    The Type IIS restriction endonuclease BtsI recognizes and digests at GCAGTG(2/0). It comprises two subunits: BtsIA and BtsIB. The BtsIB subunit contains the recognition domain, one catalytic domain for bottom strand nicking and part of the catalytic domain for the top strand nicking. BtsIA has the rest of the catalytic domain that is responsible for the DNA top strand nicking. BtsIA alone has no activity unless it mixes with BtsIB to reconstitute the BtsI activity. During characterization of ...

  17. Optimasi Perencanaan Jumlah Base Transceiver Station (BTS dan Kapasitas Trafik BTS Menggunakan Pendekatan Goal Programming pada Sistem Telekomunikasi Seluler Berbasis GSM

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Fajrul Hakim

    2012-09-01

    Full Text Available Jumlah pengguna telepon seluler GSM telah mencapai 229.4 juta pada tahun 2011. Hal ini menyebabkan operator seluler GSM harus bisa memenuhi kebutuhan trafik pengguna. Pemenuhan kebutuhan jaringan dilakukan dengan membangun infrastruktur jaringan, salah satunya adalah BTS. BTS biasanya dibangun untuk dapat menampung trafik pengguna selama beberapa tahun ke depan. Perencanaan pembangunan BTS diusahakan membutuhkan seminimal mungkin perangkat keras jaringan tetapi dapat memenuhi semaksimal mungkin kapasitas trafik yang ada. Untuk melaksanakan perencanaan tersebut dibutuhkan optimasi jumlah dan trafik BTS dalam satu wilayah. Optimasi tersebut mencakup dua fungsi tujuan. Salah satu metode optimasi yang mampu menangani kasus multi tujuan adalah metode goal programming. Tugas akhir ini bertujuan untuk menentukan kapasitas trafik yang bisa menampung semua permintaan trafik dari pengguna telepon seluler dan menentukan kapasitas total trafik BTS yang tidak melebihi total kapasitas yang dimiliki masing-masing BTS. Dalam pengerjaan tugas akhir ini, permintaan trafik diramalkan selama 10 tahun mendatang. Hasil peramalan digunakan sebagai batasan dari fungsi tujuan. Kemudian model optimasi dibuat dalam bentuk program linear, lalu diubah sesuai metode goal programming. Model yang terbentuk diselesaikan menggunakan program komputer. Dari hasil penelitian dan perhitungan diperoleh bahwa metode goal programming dapat dijadikan sebagai metode untuk menyelesaikan multi tujuan.

  18. BTS statistical standards manual

    Science.gov (United States)

    2005-10-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), like other federal statistical agencies, establishes professional standards to guide the methods and procedures for the collection, processing, storage, and presentation of statistical data. Standards an...

  19. Optimalisasi Kinerja (Internet Protocol) Ip Clock Pada Jaringan Base Transceiver Station (Bts)

    OpenAIRE

    Budiyanto, Setiyo; Saputra, Apipi

    2016-01-01

    Pada sistem komunikasi GSM (Global System for Mobile), BTS (Base Transceiver Station) merupakan jantung dari sebuah cell site layanan telekomunikasi. BTS merupakan perangkat pemancar dan penerima yang menangani akses radio dan berinteraksi langsung dengan Mobile Station (MS) melalui air interface. Sebuah optimasi kinerja ip clock pada base transceiver station (BTS) metode untuk sinkronisasi jaringan untuk jam global yang berasal dari jam GPS diakuisisi oleh sejumlah BTS. IP clock didistribusi...

  20. Insulin-releasing action of the novel antidiabetic agent BTS 67 582.

    Science.gov (United States)

    McClenaghan, N H; Flatt, P R; Bailey, C J

    1998-02-01

    1. BTS 67582 (1,1-dimethyl-2-(2-morpholinophenyl)guanidine fumarate) is a novel antidiabetic agent with a short-acting insulin-releasing effect. This study examined its mode of action in the clonal B-cell line BRIN-BD11. 2. BTS 67582 increased insulin release from BRIN-BD11 cells in a concentration-dependent manner (10[-8] to 10[-4] M) at both non-stimulating (1.1 mM) and stimulating (16.7 mM) concentrations of glucose. 3. BTS 67582 (10[-4] M) potentiated the insulin-releasing effect of a depolarizing concentration of K+ (30 mM), whereas the K+ channel openers pinacidil (400 microM) and diazoxide (300 microM) inhibited BTS 67582-induced release. 4. Suppression of Ca+ channel activity with verapamil (20 microM) reduced the insulin-releasing effect of BTS 67582 (10[-4] M). 5. BTS 67582 (10[-4] M) potentiated insulin release induced by amino acids (10 mM), and enhanced the combined stimulant effects of glucose plus either the fatty acid palmitate (10 mM), or agents which raise intracellular cyclic AMP concentrations (25 microM forskolin and 1 mM isobutylmethylxanthine), or the cholinoceptor agonist carbachol (100 microM). 6. Inhibition of glucose-stimulated insulin release by adrenaline or noradrenaline (10 microM) was partially reversed by BTS 67582 (10[-4] M). 7. These data suggest that the insulin-releasing effect of BTS 67582 involves regulation of ATP-sensitive K+ channel activity and Ca2+ influx, and that the drug augments the stimulant effects of nutrient insulin secretagogues and agents which enhance adenylate cyclase and phospholipase C. BTS 67582 may also exert insulin-releasing effects independently of ATP-sensitive K+ channel activity.

  1. Konservasi Energi Pada BTS (Base Transceiver Station) Menggunakan Sistem Pendingin Arus Searah (DC Cooler)

    OpenAIRE

    Poetro, Joessianto Eko; Rahmat, Mohammad Basuki

    2012-01-01

    Dalam Sistem Telekomunikasi Selelur peranan BTS sangat vital. Tanpa ada BTS maka pelanggan seluler tidak dapat menikmati layanan komunikasi dengan baik, karena BTS inilah yang menerima dan memancarkan sinyal komunikasi ke pelanggan. Pemakaian yang terus menerus akan menimbulkan panas pada system peralatan BTS. Demikian juga panas dari radiasi matahari dapat juga mempengaruhi kinerja dan umur peralatan BTS. Untuk itu diperlukan sistem pendingin yang mampu mendinginkan sehingga dapat mengurang...

  2. Biphasic insulin-releasing effect of BTS 67 582 in rats.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Storey, D A; Bailey, C J

    1998-12-01

    BTS 67 582 (1,1-dimethyl-2(2-morpholinophenyl)guanidine fumarate) is being developed as a short-acting anti-diabetic insulin secretagogue. The effect of BTS 67 582 on the phasic pattern of insulin release was assessed in anaesthetized normal rats by measuring arterial plasma insulin concentrations while arterial glucose concentrations were fixed at 6, 8.5 and 12.5 mM. Intravenous BTS 67 582 (10 mg kg(-1)) induced an immediate but transient increase in insulin concentrations which declined by 10 min (first phase). This was followed by a smaller but sustained increase in insulin concentrations (second phase). The increment from basal to peak insulin release (0-2 min) was independent of glucose, but the first phase was maintained for longer and the second phase was greater at the highest concentration of glucose (12.5 mM). BTS 67 582 also extended the first-phase insulin response to a standard intravenous glucose challenge and enhanced the rate of glucose disappearance by approximately 12%. Thus BTS 67 582 causes biphasic stimulation of insulin release and augments the insulin-releasing effect of glucose.

  3. Design Criteria for Bagless Transfer System (BTS) Packaging System

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    RISENMAY, H.R.

    2000-01-01

    This document provides the criteria for the design and installation of a Bagless Transfer System (BTS); Blend, Sieve and Balance Equipment; and Supercritical Fluid Extraction System (SFE). The project consists of 3 major modules: (1) Bagless Transfer System (BTS) Module; (2) Blend, Sieve and Balance Equipment; and (3) Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) Module

  4. Cloning of B cell-specific membrane tetraspanning molecule BTS possessing B cell proliferation-inhibitory function.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Suenaga, Tadahiro; Arase, Hisashi; Yamasaki, Sho; Kohno, Masayuki; Yokosuka, Tadashi; Takeuchi, Arata; Hattori, Takamichi; Saito, Takashi

    2007-11-01

    Lymphocyte proliferation is regulated by signals through antigen receptors, co-stimulatory receptors, and other positive and negative modulators. Several membrane tetraspanning molecules are also involved in the regulation of lymphocyte growth and death. We cloned a new B cell-specific tetraspanning (BTS) membrane molecule, which is similar to CD20 in terms of expression, structure and function. BTS is specifically expressed in the B cell line and its expression is increased after the pre-B cell stage. BTS is expressed in intracellular granules and on the cell surface. Overexpression of BTS in immature B cell lines induces growth retardation through inhibition of cell cycle progression and cell size increase without inducing apoptosis. This inhibitory function is mediated predominantly by the N terminus of BTS. The development of mature B cells is inhibited in transgenic mice expressing BTS, suggesting that BTS is involved in the in vivo regulation of B cells. These results indicate that BTS plays a role in the regulation of cell division and B cell growth.

  5. BTS 2007: Resultaten en reisverslagen

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Boois, de I.J.; Bol, R.A.

    2007-01-01

    In 2007 is de beam trawl survey (BTS) uitgevoerd met de Tridens II en de Isis in opdracht van het ministerie van LNV. In dit rapport staan de resultaten van de survey alsmede de reisverslagen van de reizen op beide schepen

  6. Resultaten boomkorsurvey 2013: BTS met onderzoeksvaartuigen Isis en Tridens (interview met Ingeborg de Boois)

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Boois, de I.J.

    2013-01-01

    Van begin augustus tot half september heeft IMARES de boomkorsurvey (BTS) uitgevoerd met de onderzoeksschepen Isis en Tridens. Op 29 maart 2014 wordt een bijeenkomst georganiseerd voor geinteresseerden, waar de resultaten van zowel de BTS als de bedrijfssurvey gepresenteerd worden. De BTS wordt

  7. Optimum Design Of PV Systems For BTS In Remote And Urban Areas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Khaled Hossam

    2015-08-01

    Full Text Available knowing that Base stations represent the main contributor to the energy consumption of a mobile network the economical problem of providing electrical energy to mobile BTS stations may be solved to a great extent if renewable energy sources are used. In remote areas where electric utility is not available photovoltaic PV stand-alone system using storage batteries represent a good solution although it is costly. It is also possible to have a hybrid stand-alone system using diesel generator combined with PV to supply BTS stations in remote areas. In urban areas PV on grid system is an economical solution. In such a system during sunshine hours PV system delivers part of its generated energy to BTS station and the rest to grid utility whereas during night BTS station is supplied by grid to get back what was supplied to the grid during day. The economics of the different proposals is the criterion of optimization i.e. the cost per generated Kwh is the crucial objective function to be minimized. In this work we optimize both stand-alone PV system and PV on grid system to supply remote and urban indoor or outdoor BTS stations.

  8. Model System Dynamics Infrastruktur BTS Ramah Lingkungan Daerah Rural untuk Optimalisasi Perhitungan ARPU

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wahyu Sardjono

    2013-06-01

    Full Text Available Green Base transceiver station (BTS or known as remote BTS is a special BTS with IP technology-based that has a small capacity and takes low power consumption with standard features suitable for use in rural areas. BTS utilizes 100% solar energy as a source of energy. The infrastructure Green BTS is composed of high-tech devices which is able to save energy, environmentally friendly, small and lightweight. The high rate service calls and SMS on green BTS is caused by the absence of competition telecom operators at a site. The solution to this  problem needs to be done with system dynamics modeling approach with the aim to establish causality (cause and effect between the variables. The standard target of model pattern which has been changed on system dynamics can be used to demonstrate the behavior of the model between the number of subscribers, the availability of network capacity and ARPU (average revenue per user on the Green BTS site. On the changed standard target model, the actual revenue is placed as the actual event, the target revenue is as a target; the difference between the actual and target revenue is as gap, gap changes are as the pressure on the target and the corrective action taken against revenue as a corrective action. Based on simulation results, the standard model change targets can be developed by adding two negative loops (balancing loop as an alternative solution towards the achievement of revenue targets that have been set.

  9. Induced desensitization of the insulinotropic effects of antidiabetic drugs, BTS 67 582 and tolbutamide.

    Science.gov (United States)

    McClenaghan, N H; Ball, A J; Flatt, P R

    2000-05-01

    Acute and chronic mechanisms of action of novel insulinotropic antidiabetic drug, BTS 67 582 (1, 1-dimethyl-2-(2-morpholinophenyl)guanidine fumarate), were examined in the stable cultured BRIN-BD11 cell line. BTS 67 582 (100 - 400 microM) stimulated a concentration-dependent increase (PBTS 67 582 in culture time-dependently decreased subsequent responsiveness to acute challenge with 200 microM BTS 67 582 or 200 microM tolbutamide at 12 - 18 h (PBTS 67 582 and tolbutamide. Culture with 100 microM BTS 67 582 or 100 microM tolbutamide did not affect basal insulin secretion, cellular insulin content, or cell viability and exerted no influence on the secretory responsiveness to 200 microM of the imidazoline, efaroxan. While 18 h BTS 67 582 culture did not affect the insulin-releasing actions (PBTS 67 582 shares a common signalling pathway to sulphonylurea but not imidazoline drugs. Desensitization of drug action may provide an important approach to dissect sites of action of novel and established insulinotropic antidiabetic agents.

  10. Speech Quality Measurement of GSM Infrastructure Built on USRP N210 and OpenBTS Project

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marcel Fajkus

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available The paper deals with the methodology for speech quality measuring in GSM networks using Perceptual Evaluation of Speech Quality (PESQ. The paper brings results of practical measurement of own GSM network build on the Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP N210 hardware and OpenBTS software. This OpenBTS station was installed in open terrain, and the speech quality was measured from different distances from the transmitter. The limit parameters of OpenBTS station with USRP N210 were obtained.

  11. BTS 72664-- a novel CNS drug with potential anticonvulsant, neuroprotective, and antimigraine properties.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Smith, S L; Thompson, K S; Sargent, B J; Heal, D J

    2001-01-01

    BTS 72664, (R)-7-[1-(4-chlorophenoxy)]ethyl]-1,2,4-triazolo(1,5-alpha)pyrimidine, was identified as a drug development candidate from a research program designed to discover novel, broad-spectrum, non-sedative anticonvulsant drugs. BTS 72664 antagonized bicuculline (BIC)- and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced convulsions with ED(50) values of 1.9 and 47.5 mg/kg p.o., respectively. In rodents, it has a wide spectrum of activity preventing seizures induced by picrotoxin, pentylenetetrazol, i.c.v. 4-aminopyridine or NMDA, and audiogenic seizures in DBA-2 mice and GEPR-9 rats. BTS 72664 was also effective in preventing convulsions in amygdala-kindled rats The lack of sedative potential was predicted on the basis of wide separation between ED(50) in anticonvulsant models and TD(50) for motor impairment in mice in rotating rod and inverted horizontal grid tests. BTS 72664 is likely to produce its anticonvulsant effect by enhancing chloride currents through picrotoxin-sensitive chloride channels, and by weak inhibition of Na(+) and NMDA channels. It does not act, however, at the benzodiazepine binding site. In addition to its potential use in the treatment of epilepsy BTS 72664 may be useful in the treatment of stroke. At 50 mg/kg p.o. x 4, given to rats at 12 hourly intervals, starting at 15 min after permanent occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCA), it reduced cerebral infarct size by 31% (measured at 2 days after insult) and accelerated recovery in a functional behavioral model. BTS 72664 prevented increases in extraneuronal concentrations of glutamate, glycine and serine brain levels induced by a cortical insult to rats (cf. cortical spreading depression). It may, therefore, have also antimigraine activity.

  12. Surat Elektronik sebagai Media Komunikasi Data pada Sistem Pemantauan Bahan Bakar pada Sistem Catu Daya BTS

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Falconi Falconi

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Base Transceiver Station (BTS merupakan seperangkat radio komunikasi tetap yang digunakan dalam jaringan selular. Untuk mempertahankan kinerja perangkat BTS agar tetap dapat bekerja walaupun suplai catu daya dari PLN terhenti, pada beberapa lokasi BTS ditempatkan pembangkit listrik tenaga solar. Sehingga pada saat PLN mati, maka kebutuhan listrik BTS akan disuplai oleh pembangkit listrik tersebut. Karena lokasi BTS menyebar, diperlukan petugas yang banyak atau waktu yang lama untuk dapat melakukan pengecekan kondisi solar secara keseluruhan. Sehingga sewaktu-waktu pembangkit listrik tidak dapat bekerja saat  dibutuhkan  dikarenakan  solar  habis.  Sistem  pemantau kondisi solar pada sistem catu daya Base Transceiver Station (BTS merupakan sebuah sistem pemantau yang berfungsi melakukan pencatatan ketinggian level solar pada tangki secara periodik dan terus menerus. Ketinggian level solar dikonversi kedalam status normal, minor, mayor dan kritis. Status inilah yang akan disimpan ke dalam basis data yang ada pada computer server. Dengan adanya sistem pemantau ini, maka untuk mengetahui kondisi solar pada tangki sebuah stasiun BTS, seorang petugas pemeliharaana dapat melakukannya tanpa perlu lagi mendatangi lokasi BTS, tetapi cukup memantaunya dari aplikasi pada komputer klien. Sistem yang dibangun terdiri dari sensor ultrasonik PING yang bertugas mendeteksi level solar dan mengumpankan hasilnya ke mikrokontroler ATMEGA8535. Mikrokontroler bertugas untuk mengkonversi sinyal analog yang dihasilkan sensor kedalam bentuk sinyal digital untuk kemudian dikirim ke komputer server melalui komunikasi serial. Aplikasi yang ada pada komputer server akan menerima data tersebut dan menyimpannya pada basis data. Data-data tersebut sewaktu-waktu akan dipanggil kembali apabila ada permintaan dari komputer klien untuk kemudian di kirim melaui surat elektronik. Dari hasil pengujian yang dilakukan pada tangki solar yang dimiliki oleh PT. Berca Hardayaperkasa

  13. Perencanaan Jumlah dan Lokasi Menara Base Transceiver Station (BTS Baru Pada Telekomunikasi Seluler di Kabupaten Lumajang Menggunakan Metode Analytical Hierarchy Process-TOPSIS (AHP-TOPSIS

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Widyatmoko Widyatmoko

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Lahirnya teknologi baru seperti 4G LTE mendorong para operator untuk membangun infrastrur baru seperti menara BTS dalam rangka menghadapi persaingan antar operator. Dalam pembangunan menara BTS, sangat dibutuhkan suatu perencanaan yang sistematis untuk menentukan jumlah dan posisi menara BTS yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan. Dalam perencanaan BTS, langkah yang wajib dilakukan adalah memprediksi kebutuhan BTS di tahun 2019. Menara BTS yang dibutuhkan didapat dengan menghitung selisih antara jumlah BTS tahun 2019 dan jumlah BTS tahun 2014 kemudian hasilnya dibagi 4 (diasumsikan satu menara BTS terdiri dari 4 BTS. Setelah diketahui jumlah kebutuhan menara BTS pada tahun 2019, selanjutnya penulis melakukan penyebaran menara tersebut ke seluruh penjuru kabupaten Lumajang. setelah itu penulis melakukan pembobotan pada tiap zona menara untuk mengetahui peringkat zona terbaik. Zona-zona dengan peringkat terbaik dianggap sebagai titik strategis untuk didirikan perangkat BTS 4G LTE. Metode yang digunakan dalam pembobotan adalah metode AHP-TOPSIS. Metode ini merupakan kombinasi dari metode Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP dan Techique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS. Metode AHP berfungsi untuk mengetahui nilai prioritas tiap sub-kriteria yang digunakan sedangkan TOPSIS berfungsi untuk mencari nilai tiap zona berdasarkan input dari AHP sehingga diketahui zona prioritas.

  14. The effect of an insulin releasing agent, BTS 67582, on advanced glycation end product formation in vitro.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Simpson, A E; Jones, R B

    1999-01-01

    BTS 67582 (1,1-dimethyl-2-(2-morpholinophenyl) guanidine fumarate) is an insulin-releasing agent currently in phase II clinical trials. Its effect on advanced glycation end product (AGE) formation was measured in the BSA/D-glucose and L-lysine/glucose-6-phosphate assay systems and Amadori product formation was measured in the BSA/D-glucose assay system, following a 3 week incubation period. In the BSA/D-glucose assay system, 200 mM BTS 67582 caused an approximate 70% inhibition in AGE formation (pBTS 67582 and 200 mM aminoguanidine-HCl retarded Amadori product formation by 88% (pBTS 67582 at 20 mM and 2 mM was shown to inhibit Amadori product formation by 67% and 57%, respectively, (pBTS 67582 and 200 mM aminoguanidine-HCl were shown to inhibit AGE formation by about 70% and 96% (p<0.001), respectively. Tolbutamide (200 microM) and glibenclamide (100 microM) had no significant effect on AGE formation.

  15. Reisverslag van de boomkorsurvey (BTS) in 2012

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Boois, de I.J.; Bol, R.A.

    2012-01-01

    In 2012 is de beam trawl survey (BTS) uitgevoerd met de Tridens II en de Isis in opdracht van het ministerie van EL&I. De survey is onderdeel van het EU Data Collectie Programma (DCF) en valt daarmee onder de wettelijke taken die binnen IMARES worden uitgevoerd. In dit rapport staan de

  16. SISTEM PENDUKUNG KEPUTUSAN PENGAKTIFAN FITUR 4G LTE PADA BTS MENGGUNAKAN METODE PROMETHEE BERBASIS WEB

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    I Komang Yogi Sutrisna

    2017-07-01

    Full Text Available Kemajuan teknologi informasi dan telekomunikasi yang begitu pesat telah mendorong semakin berkembangnya sebuah informasi. Salah satunya informasi mengenai persaingan yang ketat dalam melakukan alternatif pengembangan jaringan akses. Dipilihnya jaringan 4G dimaksudkan sebagai solusi jaringan komunikasi yang komprehensif dan aman, dengan kecepatan data yang jauh lebih cepat dari generasi sebelumnya. Secara umum hal tersebut diminta untuk menyediakan layanan berkualitas tinggi dan kecepatan transfer data yang lebih cepat. Perencanaan suatu sistem yang dapat membantu dalam pemilihan BTS untuk diaktifkan fitur 4G sangat diperlukan oleh operator jaringan telekomunikasi dalam menentukan BTS yang sesuai dengan kriteria yang diinginkan. Pada penelitian ini telah dapat dibuat sebuah SPK (Sistem Pendukung Keputusan berbasis web untuk me-nyelesaikan masalah alternatif pemilihan BTS. Pengembangan dari aplikasi yang dibangun ini meng-gunakan metodologi Waterfall System. Sedangkan metode pengambilan keputusan menggunakan metode Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE. Pada tahap implementasi, sistem ini menggunakan bahasa pemrograman PHP, serta MySQL sebagai da-tabasenya. Sistem pendukung keputusan ini dapat menghasilkan alternatif BTS yang disarankan se-suai dengan kriteria yang didasarkan pada hasil analisis metode PROMETHEE. Perbedaan dari 2 je-nis perhitungan secara manual dan menggunakan sistem terlihat pada peringkat 3 terbaik dari 20 BTS yang diseleksi.

  17. Management of spontaneous pneumothorax compared to British Thoracic Society (BTS) 2003 guidelines: a district general hospital audit.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Medford, Andrew Rl; Pepperell, Justin Ct

    2007-10-01

    In 1993, the British Thoracic Society (BTS) issued guidelines for the management of spontaneous pneumothorax (SP). These were refined in 2003. To determine adherence to the 2003 BTS SP guidelines in a district general hospital. An initial retrospective audit of 52 episodes of acute SP was performed. Subsequent intervention involved a junior doctor educational update on both the 2003 BTS guidelines and the initial audit results, and the setting up of an online guideline hyperlink. After the educational intervention a further prospective re-audit of 28 SP episodes was performed. Management of SP deviated considerably from the 2003 BTS guidelines in the initial audit - deviation rate 26.9%. After the intervention, a number of clinical management deviations persisted (32.1% deviation rate); these included failure to insert a chest drain despite unsuccessful aspiration, and attempting aspiration of symptomatic secondary SPs. Specific tools to improve standards might include a pneumothorax proforma to improve record keeping and a pneumothorax care pathway to reduce management deviations compared to BTS guidelines. Successful change also requires identification of the total target audience for any educational intervention.

  18. National BTS bronchiectasis audit 2012: is the quality standard being adhered to in adult secondary care?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hill, Adam T; Routh, Chris; Welham, Sally

    2014-03-01

    A significant step towards improving care of patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis was the creation of the British Thoracic Society (BTS) national guidelines and the quality standard. A BTS bronchiectasis audit was conducted between 1 October and 30 November 2012, in adult patients with bronchiectasis attending secondary care, against the BTS quality standard. Ninety-eight institutions took part, submitting a total of 3147 patient records. The audit highlighted the variable adoption of the quality standard. It will allow the host institutions to benchmark against UK figures and drive quality improvement programmes to promote the quality standard and improve patient care.

  19. GAMBARAN GANGGUAN CEMAS MASYARAKAT DI SEKITAR MENARA BASE TRANCEIVER STATION/BTS DI BANDUNG DAN JAKARTA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Athena Anwar

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available AbstractA research on Health Effect of Electromagnetic Fields to People Arround The Base Tranceiver Stations (BTSs in Jakarta and Bandung was conducted to study the influence of BTS existence on the residents’ mental health condition.The research design was cross-sectional The number of sample was 655 people scattered in 10 BTSs. The data was collected through interviews using Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI questionnaires, conducted by researchers of Center for Public Health Intervention Technology, NIHRD. Data processing and analysis were performed bivariate between the house’s distances from BTSs and the occurrences of anxiety disorder. The results showed that 64,8% of respondents in Bandung and 57,8% of respondents in Jakarta have a general health complaints such as dizziness/headaches, cough and fever, and suffering from degenerative diseases such as high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes mellitus (DM. Specially for mental health, there is a significant association between respondents’ anxiety disorders and the distance of their house from the BTSs (p<0,05. The proportion of respondents suffering from anxiety disorder is higher for respondents whose house is located less than 100 meters from the BTSs than those who have their house at a greater distance (over 100 meters. The respondents living near BTSs in Bandung and Jakarta have general health problems. The anxiety disorder is most likely triggered by the BTSs existence near their house.Keywords : Base Transceiver Station, Radiation, Anxiety DisorderAbstrakTelah dilakukan Penelitian Pengaruh Medan Elektromagnetik Terhadap Kesehatan Masyarakat Di Sekitar Menara Pemancar Telepon Seluler (BTS di Jakarta dan Bandung, Disain dari penelitian adalah potong lintang dengan jumlah sampel 655 orang yang tersebar di sekitar 10 BTS. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan cara wawancara menggunakan kuesioner Mini International of Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI oleh peneliti

  20. Cross-bridge blocker BTS permits direct measurement of SR Ca2+ pump ATP utilization in toadfish swimbladder muscle fibers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Young, Iain S; Harwood, Claire L; Rome, Lawrence C

    2003-10-01

    Because the major processes involved in muscle contraction require rapid utilization of ATP, measurement of ATP utilization can provide important insights into the mechanisms of contraction. It is necessary, however, to differentiate between the contribution made by cross-bridges and that of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ pumps. Specific and potent SR Ca2+ pump blockers have been used in skinned fibers to permit direct measurement of cross-bridge ATP utilization. Up to now, there was no analogous cross-bridge blocker. Recently, N-benzyl-p-toluene sulfonamide (BTS) was found to suppress force generation at micromolar concentrations. We tested whether BTS could be used to block cross-bridge ATP utilization, thereby permitting direct measurement of SR Ca2+ pump ATP utilization in saponin-skinned fibers. At 25 microM, BTS virtually eliminates force and cross-bridge ATP utilization (both BTS. At 25 microM, BTS had no effect on SR pump ATP utilization. Hence, we used BTS to make some of the first direct measurements of ATP utilization of intact SR over a physiological range of [Ca2+]at 15 degrees C. Curve fits to SR Ca2+ pump ATP utilization vs. pCa indicate that they have much lower Hill coefficients (1.49) than that describing cross-bridge force generation vs. pCa (approximately 5). Furthermore, we found that BTS also effectively eliminates force generation in bundles of intact swimbladder muscle, suggesting that it will be an important tool for studying integrated SR function during normal motor behavior.

  1. 14 CFR 291.45 - BTS Schedule T-100, U.S. Air Carrier Traffic and Capacity Data by Nonstop Segment and On-Flight...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false BTS Schedule T-100, U.S. Air Carrier... CARGO OPERATIONS IN INTERSTATE AIR TRANSPORTATION Reporting Rules § 291.45 BTS Schedule T-100, U.S. Air... questions about reporting a joint-service operation, contact the BTS Assistant Director—Airline Information...

  2. Technical and Vocational Education Stakeholders' Perceptions on Professional Skills Acquired in Private "Brevet De Technicien Supérieur (BTS)" Schools in Togo

    Science.gov (United States)

    Adjrah, Yao

    2014-01-01

    This study intends to analyze formal and implemented BTS curricula in Lomé (Togo). Data collection was achieved by means of questionnaires and interviews for exploring, in five private BTS schools, the perceptions of students, teachers and pedagogical directors, as well as the views of employed BTS graduates and their employers, regarding the…

  3. Effects of a myosin-II inhibitor (N-benzyl-p-toluene sulphonamide, BTS) on contractile characteristics of intact fast-twitch mammalian muscle fibres.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pinniger, G J; Bruton, J D; Westerblad, H; Ranatunga, K W

    2005-01-01

    We have examined the effects of N-benzyl-p-toluene sulphonamide (BTS), a potent and specific inhibitor of fast muscle myosin-II, using small bundles of intact fibres or single fibres from rat foot muscle. BTS decreased tetanic tension reversibly in a concentration-dependent manner with half-maximal inhibition at approximately approximately 2 microM at 20 degrees C. The inhibition of tension with 10 microM BTS was marked at the three temperatures examined (10, 20 and 30 degrees C), but greatest at 10 degrees C. BTS decreased active muscle stiffness to a lesser extent than tetanic tension indicating that not all of the tension inhibition was due to a reduced number of attached cross-bridges. BTS-induced inhibition of active tension was not accompanied by any change in the free myoplasmic Ca2+ transients. The potency and specificity of BTS make it a very suitable myosin inhibitor for intact mammalian fast muscle and should be a useful tool for the examination of outstanding questions in muscle contraction.

  4. 14 CFR 291.44 - BTS Schedule P-12(a), Fuel Consumption by Type of Service and Entity.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false BTS Schedule P-12(a), Fuel Consumption by... TRANSPORTATION Reporting Rules § 291.44 BTS Schedule P-12(a), Fuel Consumption by Type of Service and Entity. (a.... (e)(1) The cost of fuel shall include shrinkage, but excludes: (i) “Throughput” and “in to plane...

  5. Repeated administration of the monoamine reuptake inhibitor BTS 74 398 induces ipsilateral circling in the 6-hydroxydopamine lesioned rat without sensitizing motor behaviours.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lane, E L; Cheetham, S C; Jenner, P

    2005-01-01

    BTS 74 398 (1-[1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)cyclobutyl]-2-(3-diaminethylaminopropylthio)ethanone monocitrate) is a monoamine reuptake inhibitor that reverses motor deficits in MPTP-treated (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) common marmosets without provoking established dyskinesia. However, it is not known whether BTS 74 398 primes the basal ganglia for dyskinesia induction. In this study, the ability of BTS 74 398 to sensitize 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats for the production of abnormal motor behaviours and the induction of striatal DeltaFosB were determined in comparison with l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine methyl ester (L-dopa). Acute administration of BTS 74 398 induced a dose-dependent ipsilateral circling response in unilaterally 6-OHDA-lesioned rats whereas L-dopa produced dose-dependent contraversive rotation. The ipsilateral circling response to BTS 74 398 did not alter during 21 days of administration. In contrast, L-dopa treatment for 21 days caused a marked increase in rotational response. Repeated administration of both L-dopa and BTS 74 398 increased general motor activity and stereotypic behaviour. In L-dopa-treated rats, orolingual, locomotive, forelimb and axial abnormal movements developed whereas BTS 74 398 produced only locomotion with a side bias but no other abnormal movements. Sensitization of circling responses and the development of abnormal movements in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats have been associated with the potential of dopaminergic drugs to induce dyskinesia. Furthermore, striatal DeltaFosB immunoreactivity, shown to correlate with dyskinesia induction, was increased by L-dopa but was unaffected by repeated BTS 74 398 administration. The lack of such changes following repeated BTS 74 398 treatment suggests that it may be an effective antiparkinsonian therapy that is unlikely to produce involuntary movements.

  6. A cognitive mobile BTS solution with software-defined radioelectric sensing.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Muñoz, Jorge; Alonso, Javier Vales; García, Francisco Quiñoy; Costas, Sergio; Pillado, Marcos; Castaño, Francisco Javier González; Sánchez, Manuel García; Valcarce, Roberto López; Bravo, Cristina López

    2013-02-05

    Private communications inside large vehicles such as ships may be effectively provided using standard cellular systems. In this paper we propose a new solution based on software-defined radio with electromagnetic sensing support. Software-defined radio allows low-cost developments and, potentially, added-value services not available in commercial cellular networks. The platform of reference, OpenBTS, only supports single-channel cells. Our proposal, however, has the ability of changing BTS channel frequency without disrupting ongoing communications. This ability should be mandatory in vehicular environments, where neighbouring cell configurations may change rapidly, so a moving cell must be reconfigured in real-time to avoid interferences. Full details about frequency occupancy sensing and the channel reselection procedure are provided in this paper. Moreover, a procedure for fast terminal detection is proposed. This may be decisive in emergency situations, e.g., if someone falls overboard. Different tests confirm the feasibility of our proposal and its compatibility with commercial GSM terminals.

  7. [Sixteen Cases of Colon Stenting as a Bridge to Surgery(BTS)for Obstructive Colorectal Cancer].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Otsuka, Ryo; Saito, Shuji; Hirayama, Ryouichi; Miura, Yasuaki; Sasaki, Kazunori; Miyajima, Ayako; Kuwamoto, Nobutsuna; Kataoka, Ryoko; Shindo, Yukito; Fujita, Rikiya

    2017-11-01

    Colonic stent insertion is widely used as a bridge to surgery(BTS)for obstructive colorectal cancer. Stenting can shorten hospitalization and decrease complication and colostomy rates in comparison with emergency surgery. We investigated patients who underwent colonic stent insertion for BTS in our hospital. Sixteen patients(8 men, 8 women) with a colorectal obstruction score of 0 or 1 who underwent colonic stent insertion as a BTS between April 2015 and April 2017 period were investigated. Mean patient age was 68.2(45-94)years. Technical success was obtained in all patients, and clinical success in 14(87%). Total colonoscopy was possible via stent in 10 patients. Nine patients were temporarily discharged from the hospital, and median time to operation was 18(2-43)days. Laparoscopic resection was performed in 14 patients, and anastomotic leakage was a postoperative complication in 1 patient. Colostomy was performed in only 1 patient with anastomotic leakage. Good results were obtained with careful patient selection and safe colonic stent insertion.

  8. Boar sperm storage capacity of BTS and Androhep Plus: viability, motility, capacitation, and tyrosine phosphorylation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dubé, Charlotte; Beaulieu, Martin; Reyes-Moreno, Carlos; Guillemette, Christine; Bailey, Janice L

    2004-09-01

    Androhep Plus, a long-term extender (up to 7 days) and Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS), a short-term extender (up to 3 days), are commonly used for liquid storage of porcine semen. To test the hypothesis that modifications in sperm viability, motility, chlortetracycline (CTC) fluorescence patterns, and protein tyrosine phosphorylation occur during semen storage in extenders, we compared these end points at different periods of storage in either Androhep Plus or BTS. Sperm from five boars were assessed daily over 12 days of storage (n = 5 ejaculates from different boars). Viability was not different (P extenders, except on Day 2, when Androhep Plus maintained better viability. Differences in the percentage of motile (total) sperm due to extender were evident on Days 2, 4, 5, and 6, when Androhep Plus was superior to BTS (P extender as early as Day 2; storage in Androhep Plus induced higher levels of pattern B sperm (P extenders; these may affect the fertilizing capacity of the semen.

  9. Pd-Catalyzed Acetoxylation of γ-C(sp3)-H Bonds of Amines Directed by a Removable Bts-Protecting Group.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zheng, Yong; Song, Weibin; Zhu, Yefu; Wei, Bole; Xuan, Lijiang

    2018-02-16

    Pd-catalyzed acetoxylation of γ-C(sp 3 )-H bonds directed by Bts-protected amines using inexpensive PhI(OAc) 2 as oxidant is reported. The Bts-protecting group is easily introduced and removed under mild conditions. This protocol provides an important strategy for the construction of γ-hydroxyl amine derivatives.

  10. Application of a Bimetallic Treatment System (BTS) for PCB Removal from Older Structures on DoD Facilities

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-11-05

    Umbilical Tower at KSC. Additionally, main engine test stands at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) were tested for PCB removal and destruction using...test stands at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) were tested for PCB removal and destruction using BTS. The original BTS formulation developed...as on an island , or in the arctic. All the scenarios evaluated in the costs model have assumed the treatment of PCB -containing materials down to

  11. Does body shadow improve the efficacy of virtual reality-based training with BTS NIRVANA?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Russo, Margherita; De Luca, Rosaria; Naro, Antonino; Sciarrone, Francesca; Aragona, Bianca; Silvestri, Giuseppe; Manuli, Alfredo; Bramanti, Alessia; Casella, Carmela; Bramanti, Placido; Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Background: Aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the presence of body shadows during virtual reality (VR) training with BTS NIRVANA (BTs-N) may lead to a better functional recovery. Methods: We enrolled 20 poststroke rehabilitation inpatients, who underwent a neurocognitive-rehabilitative training consisting of 24 sessions (3 times a week for 8 weeks) of BTs-N. All the patients were randomized into 2 groups: semi-immersive virtual training with (S-IVTS group) or without (S-IVT group) body shadows. Each participant was evaluated before (T0) and immediately (T1) after the end of the training (Trial Registration Number: NCT03095560). Results: The S-IVTS group showed a greater improvement in visuo-constructive skills and sustained attention, as compared with the S-IVT group. The other measures showed nonsignificant within-group and between-group differences. Conclusion: Our results showed that body shadow may represent a high-priority class of stimuli that act by “pushing” attention toward the body itself. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of body shadow in promoting the internal representation construction and thus self-recognition. PMID:28930852

  12. Solution-phase synthesis of a hindered N-methylated tetrapeptide using Bts-protected amino acid chlorides: efficient coupling and methylation steps allow purification by extraction.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vedejs, E; Kongkittingam, C

    2000-04-21

    N-Benzothiazole-2-sulfonyl (Bts)-protected amino acid chlorides were used to prepare the hindered cyclosporin 8-11 tetrapeptide subunit 1. The synthesis was performed via 3a and the deprotected amines 5a, 13, and 19, including three repeated cycles involving N-methylation using iodomethane/potassium carbonate, deprotection of the Bts group, and N-acylation with a N-Bts-amino acid chloride such as 9b or 9c. Among three Bts cleavage methods compared (H3PO2/THF; NaBH4/EtOH; PhSH/K2CO3), the third gave somewhat higher overall yields. N-Acylation of 5a with the Bts-protected N-methylamino acid chloride 10b followed by deprotection was also highly efficient and could be used as an alternative route to 11. Each of the deprotected amines was isolated without chromatography using simple extraction methods to remove neutral byproducts. The tetrapeptide 1 was obtained in analytically pure form as the monohydrate.

  13. PERENCANAAN LOKASI SITE BTS LAYANAN 3G-WCDMA DI PEMERINTAH KOTA DENPASAR DENGAN MEMANFAATKAN BALAI BANJAR

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    I Wayan Aryadi

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Seiring dengan perkembangan kebutuhan bit rate dan kapasitas layanan data yang meningkat di wilayah Kota Denpasar, diperlukan perencanaan lokasi site BTS (Base Transceiver Station yang dapat melayani kebutuhan pelanggan secara kuantitas maupun kualitas. Untuk memperoleh nilai bit rate yang maksimal dibutuhkan jari-jari sel yang kecil. Dengan perbandingan luas wilayah sebesar 130,48 km2 jika dibagi dengan 399 balai banjar di Kota Denpasar maka diperoleh coverage area 0,327 km2 per banjar dengan jari-jari sel sekitar 285 m. Maka pada penelitian ini lokasi site BTS yang digunakan adalah pada Balai Banjar di Kota Denpasar. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk merancang lokasi site BTS layanan 3G-WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access untuk wilayah Pemerintah Kota Denpasar sesuai data sebaran penduduk dan mengetahui perbandingan jumlah site BTS secara teoritis untuk layanan 3G-WCDMA memanfaatkan Balai Banjar Pemerintah Kota Denpasar dengan model pemetaan secara geografis. Metode penelitian terdiri dari 3 alur, yaitu perkiraan pertumbuhan pelanggan 3G-WCDMA dan Offered Bit Quantity (OBQ per desa di Kota Denpasar, Perhitungan jumlah dan jari-jari site secara teoritis per desa di Kota Denpasar, dan Pemetaan site di Kota Denpasar memanfaatkan Balai Banjar. Perhitungan secara teoritis menunjukkan bahwa 257 site yang diperlukan untuk melingkupi seluruh wilayah Denpasar. Sementara pemetaan secara geografis dengan memanfaatkan lokasi Balai Banjar adalah sebanyak 311 site. Dari 311 site, 155 site (49,84% terdapat pada kawasan Balai Banjar dan 156 site (50,16% terdapat di luar kawasan Balai Banjar.

  14. Effects of BTS (N-benzyl-p-toluene sulphonamide), an inhibitor for myosin-actin interaction, on myofibrillogenesis in skeletal muscle cells in culture.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kagawa, Maiko; Sato, Naruki; Obinata, Takashi

    2006-11-01

    Actin filaments align around myosin filaments in the correct polarity and in a hexagonal arrangement to form cross-striated structures. It has been postulated that this myosin-actin interaction is important in the initial phase of myofibrillogenesis. It was previously demonstrated that an inhibitor of actin-myosin interaction, BDM (2,3-butanedione monoxime), suppresses myofibril formation in muscle cells in culture. However, further study showed that BDM also exerts several additional effects on living cells. In this study, we further examined the role of actin-myosin interaction in myofibril assembly in primary cultures of chick embryonic skeletal muscle by applying a more specific inhibitor, BTS (N-benzyl-p-toluene sulphonamide), of myosin ATPase and actin-myosin interaction. The assembly of sarcomeric structures from myofibrillar proteins was examined by immunocytochemical methods with the application of BTS to myotubes just after fusion. Addition of BTS (10-50 microM) significantly suppressed the organization of actin and myosin into cross-striated structures. BTS also interfered in the organization of alpha-actinin, C-protein (or MyBP-C), and connectin (or titin) into ordered striated structures, though the sensitivity was less. Moreover, when myotubes cultured in the presence of BTS were transferred to a control medium, sarcomeric structures were formed in 2-3 days, indicating that the inhibitory effect of BTS on myotubes is reversible. These results show that actin-myosin interaction plays a critical role in the process of myofibrillogenesis.

  15. Perbandingan Perhitungan Trafik Jam Sibuk CDMA 2000 1x pada BTS Inner City dan BTS Outer City dengan Mempergunakan Metode ADPH, TCBH, FDMH dan FDMP

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    Eka Wahyudi

    2013-11-01

    Full Text Available Cellular communication system is a wireless communication system where the subscriber can move within a wide network coverage. Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA is a multiuser access technology that is each user uses a unique code contained in the access channel in the system. Calculation and determination of peak hours can be done by several methods such as: Average Daily Peak Hour (ADPH, Time Consistent Busy Hour (TCBH, Fixed Daily Measurement Hour (FDMH, Fixed Daily Measurement Period (FDMP. The effectiveness of the channel should be determined by occupancy both at inner city territory and outer city  territory location. Using design Erlang (Erl for supply channel at Base Transceiver Station (BTS that provided, BTS has a design Erlang of 369,83 Erl at inner city and it has a design Erlang of 241,8 Erl at outer city. Peak hour on the inner city occurred at 12:00 to 15:00, whereas the outer city of peak hour occurred at 18:00 to 21:00. Effectiveness value that determined by operator are : 70% = high occupancy (very effective. In this case occupancy values obtained in each method is between 21% to 69% which means effective

  16. A Methodology for Measuring Voice Quality Using PESQ and Interactive Voice Response in the GSM Channel Designed by OpenBTS

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    Pavol Partila

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available This article discusses a methodology for rating the quality of mobile calls. Majority telecommunications service from the perspective of the whole world is using mobile telephony networks. One of the problems affecting this service and its quality are landscape barriers, which prevent the spread signal. Price and complex construction of classic BTS does not allow their dense distribution. In such cases, one solution is to use OpenBTS technology. Design of OpenBTS is more available, so it can be applied to much more places and more complex points. Purpose of this measurement is a model for effective stations deployment, due to shape and distribution of local barriers that reduce signal power, and thus the quality of speech. GSM access point for our mobile terminals is OpenBTS USRP N210 station. The PESQ method for evaluating of speech quality is compared with the subjective evaluation, which provides Asterisk PBX with IVR call back. Measurement method was taken into account the call quality depending on terminal position. The measured results and its processing bring knowledge to use this technology for more complicated locations with degraded signal level and increases the quality of voice services in telecommunications.

  17. The monoamine reuptake inhibitor BTS 74 398 fails to evoke established dyskinesia but does not synergise with levodopa in MPTP-treated primates.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hansard, Matthew J; Smith, Lance A; Jackson, Michael J; Cheetham, Sharon C; Jenner, Peter

    2004-01-01

    Long-term treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) with levodopa (L-dopa) induces dyskinesia that, once established, is provoked by each dose of L-dopa or a dopamine (DA) agonist. In contrast, monoamine reuptake inhibitors may reverse motor deficits in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated primates without provoking established involuntary movements. We now examine whether the potent monoamine reuptake blocker BTS 74 398 induces established dyskinesia in MPTP-treated common marmosets primed previously with L-dopa and whether co-administration of BTS 74 398 with L-dopa potentiates motor behaviour and dyskinesia induced by acute L-dopa treatment. Administration of BTS 74 398 (2.5, 5.0, or 10.0 mg/kg, p.o.) in MPTP-treated common marmosets increased locomotor activity and reduced motor disability in a dose-related manner but did not provoke involuntary movements. BTS 74 398 (2.5, 5.0, or 10.0 mg/kg p.o.) co-administered with a threshold dose of L-dopa (2.5 mg/kg p.o.) did not evoke a motor response or induce dyskinesia. Similarly, concomitant administration of BTS 74 398 (5.0 mg/kg p.o.) with a submaximal L-dopa dose (12.5 mg/kg p.o.) did not potentiate the motor response produced by L-dopa alone and there was no alteration in the dyskinesia provoked by L-dopa challenge. BTS 74 398 reverses motor abnormalities in MPTP-treated marmosets without evoking established dyskinesia but no additive improvement occurs when administered in combination with L-dopa. The lack of synergy with L-dopa may suggest different sites of drug action. Copyright 2003 Movement Disorder Society

  18. Does body shadow improve the efficacy of virtual reality-based training with BTS NIRVANA?: A pilot study.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Russo, Margherita; De Luca, Rosaria; Naro, Antonino; Sciarrone, Francesca; Aragona, Bianca; Silvestri, Giuseppe; Manuli, Alfredo; Bramanti, Alessia; Casella, Carmela; Bramanti, Placido; Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore

    2017-09-01

    Aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the presence of body shadows during virtual reality (VR) training with BTS NIRVANA (BTs-N) may lead to a better functional recovery. We enrolled 20 poststroke rehabilitation inpatients, who underwent a neurocognitive-rehabilitative training consisting of 24 sessions (3 times a week for 8 weeks) of BTs-N. All the patients were randomized into 2 groups: semi-immersive virtual training with (S-IVTS group) or without (S-IVT group) body shadows. Each participant was evaluated before (T0) and immediately (T1) after the end of the training (Trial Registration Number: NCT03095560). The S-IVTS group showed a greater improvement in visuo-constructive skills and sustained attention, as compared with the S-IVT group. The other measures showed nonsignificant within-group and between-group differences. Our results showed that body shadow may represent a high-priority class of stimuli that act by "pushing" attention toward the body itself. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of body shadow in promoting the internal representation construction and thus self-recognition.

  19. Profile of atacicept and its potential in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus [Corrigendum

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    Cogollo E

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Cogollo E, Silva MA, Isenberg D. Drug Design, Development and Therapy. 2015;9:1331–1339.The author list contained a spelling error: Estafania Cogollo should be Estefania Cogollo.Read the original article

  20. Effects of the pesticide amitraz and its metabolite BTS 27271 on insulin and glucagon secretion from the perfused rat pancreas: involvement of alpha2D-adrenergic receptors.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Abu-Basha, E A; Yibchok-Anun, S; Hopper, D L; Hsu, W H

    1999-11-01

    The study purpose was to investigate the direct effect of amitraz, a formamidine insecticide/acaricide, and its active metabolite BTS 27271 on insulin and glucagon secretion from the perfused rat pancreas. Amitraz and BTS 27271 (0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 micromol/L) inhibited insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. Amitraz increased glucagon secretion at 10 micromol/L, whereas BTS 27271 increased glucagon secretion at 1 and 10 micromol/L. Amitraz- and BTS 27271-induced decreases in insulin secretion and increases in glucagon secretion were not abolished during the 10-minute washout period. During the arginine treatment, both amitraz and BTS 27271 groups (0.1, 1, and 10 micromol/L) had lower insulin secretion and higher glucagon secretion than the control group. Idazoxan, an alpha2A/2D-adrenergic receptor (AR) antagonist, prevented the inhibitory effect of amitraz on insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner, but prazosin, an alpha1- and alpha2B/2C-AR antagonist, failed to antagonize the effect of amitraz. These results demonstrate that (1) amitraz and BTS 27271 inhibit insulin and stimulate glucagon secretion from the perfused rat pancreas, (2) amitraz inhibits insulin secretion by activation of alpha2D-ARs, since rats have alpha2D- but not alpha2A-ARs, and (3) amitraz and BTS 27271 may have a high binding affinity to the alpha2D-ARs of pancreatic islets.

  1. Fertility results of artificial inseminations performed with liquid boar semen stored in X-cell vs BTS extender.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Haugan, T; Gaustad, A H; Reksen, O; Gröhn, Y T; Hofmo, P O

    2007-02-01

    The objective of the present field study was to compare the fertility results for boar semen diluted in X-cell stored up to 4-5 days before artificial insemination (AI) with semen diluted in Beltsville thawing solution (BTS) used for AI following 2-3 days of storage (where the first day being the collection day). A total number of 2601 double inseminations in Norwegian herds were included in this two-trial study. All the boars used in the study were mature cross-bred Norwegian Landrace x Duroc (LD), which were routinely used for AI in Norway. The inseminated gilts and sows were Norwegian Landrace x Yorkshire (LY). The AI doses contained 2.5 billion spermatozoa, and consisted of a mixture of semen from three, occasionally four, boars (i.e. heterospermic semen). Fertility was measured in terms of the likelihood of farrowing and subsequent litter size. The fertility of the semen in both of the extenders was satisfactory and no significant differences were found either in semen stored 4-5 days in X-cell compared with 2-3 days in BTS or in semen stored 2-3 days in X-cell compared with 2-3 days in BTS. The storage capability findings for the long-term extender X-cell could significantly simplify the practical issues of semen production and the distribution of AI doses containing 2.5 billion spermatozoa. However, in pig production systems where all semen is used within 2-3 days, the short-term extender BTS is as good as the more expensive extender X-cell.

  2. Bimetallic Treatment System (BTS) for Removal and Remediation of Polychlorinated Biphenyl from Marshall Space Flight Center's 4696 Fl Stand

    Science.gov (United States)

    Quinn, Jacqueline

    2006-01-01

    This Office of Space Flight (OSF)-funded project sought to demonstrate the application of a Bi-metallic Treatment System (BTS) to remove and degrade PCBs found on NASA facilities. The project initiated with the collection of PCB-containing materials from various MSFC and KSC structures, followed by laboratory evaluation of the BTS' PCB-removal efficiency, and concluded with a field demonstration at MSFC. The project evaluated the optimum formulation required to remove PCBs from aged and weathered paint with the goal of achieving final PCB concentrations less than 50 mg/Kg or 50 percent reduction where PCB starting levels were already below the 50 mg/Kg levels. Using lessons learned from this study, it was anticipated that the research team would be better able to make further recommendation on application strategies for future use of BTS for the treatment of PCB laden coatings on structures.

  3. Is the BTS/SIGN guideline confusing? A retrospective database analysis of asthma therapy.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Covvey, Jordan R; Johnston, Blair F; Wood, Fraser; Boyter, Anne C

    2013-09-01

    The British guideline on the management of asthma produced by the British Thoracic Society (BTS) and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) describes five steps for the management of chronic asthma. Combination therapy of a long acting β2-agonist (LABA) and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) is recommended as first-line therapy at step 3, although the dose of ICS at which to add a LABA is subject to debate. To classify the inhaled therapy prescribed to patients with asthma in NHS Forth Valley according to two interpretations of the BTS/SIGN guideline and to evaluate the use of combination therapy in this population. A retrospective analysis including patients from 46 general practitioner surgeries was conducted. Patients with physician diagnosed asthma were classified according to the BTS/SIGN guideline based on treatment prescribed during 2008. Patient characteristics were evaluated for the overall step classification, and specifically for therapy in step 3. 12,319 patients were included. Guideline interpretation resulted in a shift of 9.2% of patients (receiving medium-dose ICS alone) between steps 2 and 3. The largest proportion of patients (32.3%) was classified at step 4. Age, sex, smoking status, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease co-morbidity, and utilisation of short-acting β2-agonists and oral corticosteroids all correlated with step; however, no differences in these characteristics were evident between low-dose combination therapy and medium-dose ICS alone at step 3. Further studies are needed to evaluate prescribing decisions in asthma. Guideline recommendations regarding the use of ICS dose escalation versus combination therapy need to be clarified relative to the published evidence.

  4. Dilution of boar ejaculates with BTS containing HEPES in place of bicarbonate immediately after ejaculation can reduce the increased inducibility of the acrosome reaction by treatment with calcium and calcium ionophore A23187, which is potentially associated with boar subfertility.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Murase, Tetsuma; Imaeda, Noriaki; Yamada, Hiroto; Takasu, Masaki; Taguchi, Kazuo; Katoh, Tsutomu

    2010-06-01

    The present study investigated whether substitution of HEPES for bicarbonate in BTS (BTS-H) used to dilute boar ejaculates immediately after ejaculation could reduce the increased inducibility of the acrosome reaction by calcium and calcium ionophore A23187. When an ejaculate was split, diluted 5-fold with regular BTS (BTS-B) and BTS-H and stored at 17 C for 12 h or 60 h, the extender or storage time had no significant influence on sperm motility or viability measured by the eosin-nigrosin method. When spermatozoa diluted serially with BTS-B and stored (36 h) were stimulated with Ca2+ (3 mM) and A23187 (0.3 microM), the proportion of spermatozoa that underwent the acrosome reaction (% acrosome reactions) significantly increased as the magnifications of dilution increased (bicarbonate content almost unchanged by dilution). By contrast, the % acrosome reactions in spermatozoa similarly diluted and stored with BTS-H decreased with the increasing magnifications of dilution (bicarbonate decreased). Sperm motility immediately after the end of incubation without A23178 tended to be lower for BTS-H than BTS-B, and the ejaculates for BTS-H had a tendency to have a lower total protein in seminal plasma than those for BTS-B. These results implied that the samples for BTS-H could be used as a model for ejaculates possibly collected during summer and showing subfertility. When an ejaculate was split, diluted serially with BTS-B and BTS-H and stored, viability measured by staining with propidium iodide was extremely similar between the 2 extenders and among the different dilution magnifications, regardless of whether spermatozoa were washed (stored for 36-66 h) or not (stored for 66-72 h). These results suggest that boar ejaculate can be stored with BTS-H at least according to the results for sperm motility and viability and that hypersensitivity of spermatozoa to Ca2+ and A23187 potentially associated with boar subfertility could be lessened by diluting ejaculates with BTS-H.

  5. Thecamoebians: occurrence and distribution in Iguape Bay/BTS – Bahia, Brazil

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Cláudia Ferreira da Cruz

    2012-09-01

    Full Text Available The Iguape Bay (12º00’ – 13º00’S and 38º30’ – 39º30’ is an estuary located at the mouth of the Paraguaçu River, inside Todos os Santos Bay (BTS, in Bahia, Brazil. It is 30km downstream from the Pedra do Cavalo Dam, which is the second largest dam in Brazil. The water in Iguape Bay is influenced by ocean tides originating from the BTS and the discharge of the Paraguaçu River. The effects of the currents as well as the variation in the outflow from the Pedra do Cavalo Dam have intensified the natural stress of this paralic environment. The main goal of this study was to investigate the distribution of Thecamoeba species present in the bottom sediments of Iguape Bay, in order to produce data that can be used to interpret the processes operating in this ecologically complex environment. The density of the living and dead species of Thecamoeba was determined by the volume of sediment collected, and the diversity index, constancy, evenness and richness of Thecamoeba were calculated. Sedimentological analyses were also performed in order to classify sediment types in the selected profiles.

  6. Health effects of living near mobile phone base transceiver station (BTS) antennae: a report from Isfahan, Iran.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shahbazi-Gahrouei, Daryoush; Karbalae, Mojtaba; Moradi, Habib Allah; Baradaran-Ghahfarokhi, Milad

    2014-09-01

    In recent years, by tremendous use of mobile phone telecommunication, a growing concern about the possible health hazards has increased greatly among public and scientists. The mobile phone exposure has been shown to have many effects upon the immune functions, stimulating hormones, mammalian brain, sperm motility and morphology, and neurological pathologies syndrome. The aim of this study was to find out the psychological and psychobiological reactions of the people who are living near mobile phone base transceiver stations (BTS) antenna, in Isfahan, Iran. A cross-sectional study on 250 randomly selected inhabitants (133 women and 117 men) was performed in October 2012 till November 2012. The inhabitants were requested to complete a standardized questionnaire that focused on the relevant psychological and psychobiological reactions parameters. A computer program (SPSS version16.0, Chicago, IL) was used for statistical analysis using the Chi-square test with Yates correction. All the data were tested using a criterion level of p = 0.05. The results showed that most of the symptoms such as nausea, headache, dizziness, irritability, discomfort, nervousness, depression, sleep disturbance, memory loss and lowering of libido were statistically significant in the inhabitants living near the BTS antenna (300 m). It is suggested that cellular phone BTS antenna should not be sited closer than 300 m to populations to minimize exposure of neighbors.

  7. PERLINDUNGAN HUKUM BAGI KREDITOR DALAM PENGGUNAAN BASE TRANSCEIFER STATION (BTS SEBAGAI OBJEK JAMINAN FIDUSIA DALAM PERJANJIAN KREDIT

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    Siti Malikhatun Badriyah

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The development of telecommunications business major effect on development. However, this requires a relatively large funds , so that the telecommunications service provider is in need of funds from the bank to the credit agreement . Bank has a big risk in lending this , so we need guarantees, one of which fiduciary guarantee with objects Base Transceiver Station . The purpose of this study was to determine and analyze the use of Base Transceiver Station in the credit agreement and what if the debtor defaults. The research  method is a normative juridical. From the results it can be seen that the Base Transceiver Station ( BTS is a moving object that can be the object of fiduciary guarantee . If the debtor defaults , BTS can be executed in accordance with the stipulated in Fiduciary Guarantee Act.

  8. Is there any correlation between the ATS, BTS, ERS and GOLD COPD's severity scales and the frequency of hospital admissions?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tsoumakidou, Maria; Tzanakis, Nikolaos; Voulgaraki, Olga; Mitrouska, Ioanna; Chrysofakis, Georgios; Samiou, Maria; Siafakas, Nikolaos M

    2004-02-01

    Disagreement exists between different COPD guidelines considering classification of severity of the disease. The aim of our study was to determine whether there is any correlation between severity scales of various COPD guidelines (ATS, BTS, ERS and GOLD) and the frequency of hospitalisations for COPD exacerbation. A cohort of 67 COPD patients (65 male 2 female, 45 ex-smokers, 22 current smokers, aged (69.4 +/- 1.1)) was recruited from those admitted in the pulmonary clinic of the University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete for an acute exacerbation. Lung function tests and arterial blood gases analyses were performed during stable conditions at a scheduled visit 2 months after discharge. The patients were stratified using the FEV1 percent-predicted measurement of this visit into mild, moderate and severe in accordance to the ATS, BTS, ERS and GOLD scales of severity. The number of hospitalisations for acute exacerbation was recorded for the following 18 months. A total of 165 exacerbations were recorded. The correlation between the severity of COPD and the number of hospitalisations per year was statistically significant using the GOLD classification system of severity (P = 0.02 and r = 0.294). A weak correlation was also found between the number of hospitalisations and the ERS classification system (P = 0.05 and r = 0.24). No statistically significant correlation was found between the number of hospitalisations and the ATS or BTS severity scales. In conclusion the GOLD and ERS classification systems of severity of COPD correlated to exacerbations causing hospitalisation. The same was not true for the ATS and BTS severity scales. Better correlation was achieved with the GOLD scale.

  9. Effects of virtual reality-based training with BTs-Nirvana on functional recovery in stroke patients: preliminary considerations.

    Science.gov (United States)

    De Luca, Rosaria; Russo, Margherita; Naro, Antonino; Tomasello, Provvidenza; Leonardi, Simona; Santamaria, Floriana; Desireè, Latella; Bramanti, Alessia; Silvestri, Giuseppe; Bramanti, Placido; Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore

    2018-02-02

    Cognitive impairment occurs frequently in post-stroke patients. This study aimed to determine the effects of a virtual reality training (VRT) with BTs-Nirvana (BTsN) on the recovery of cognitive functions in stroke patients, using the Interactive-Semi-Immersive Program (I-SIP). We enrolled 12 subjects (randomly divided into two groups: experimental group (EG); and control group (CG)), who attended the Laboratory of Robotic and Cognitive Rehabilitation of IRCCS Neurolesi of Messina from January to June 2016. The EG underwent a VRT with BTsN, whereas CG received a standard cognitive treatment. Both the groups underwent the same conventional physiotherapy program. Each treatment session lasted 45 minutes and was repeated three times a week for 8 weeks. All the patients were evaluated by a specific clinical-psychometric battery before (T0), immediately (T1), and one month (T2) after the end of the training. At T1, the EG presented a greater improvement in the trunk control test (p = 0.03), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (p = 0.01), the selective attention assessment scores (p = 0.01), the verbal memory (p = 0.03), and the visuospatial and constructive abilities (p = 0.01), as compared to CG. Moreover, such amelioration persisted at T2 only in the EG. According to these preliminary data, VRT with I-SIP can be considered a useful complementary treatment to potentiate functional recovery, with regard to attention, visual-spatial deficits, and motor function in patients affected by stroke.

  10. [Findings from Total Colonoscopy in Obstructive Colorectal Cancer Patients Who Underwent Stent Placement as a Bridge to Surgery(BTS)].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Maruo, Hirotoshi; Tsuyuki, Hajime; Kojima, Tadahiro; Koreyasu, Ryohei; Nakamura, Koichi; Higashi, Yukihiro; Shoji, Tsuyoshi; Yamazaki, Masanori; Nishiyama, Raisuke; Ito, Tatsuhiro; Koike, Kota; Ikeda, Takashi; Takayanagi, Yasuhiro; Kubota, Hiroyuki

    2017-11-01

    We clinically investigated 34 patients with obstructive colorectal cancer who underwent placement of a colonic stent as a bridge to surgery(BTS), focusing on endoscopic findings after stent placement.Twenty -nine patients(85.3%)underwent colonoscopy after stent placement, and the entire large intestine could be observed in 28(96.6%).Coexisting lesions were observed in 22(78.6%)of these 28 patients.The lesions comprised adenomatous polyps in 17 patients(60.7%), synchronous colon cancers in 5 patients(17.9%), and obstructive colitis in 3 patients(10.7%), with some overlapping cases.All patients with multiple cancers underwent one-stage surgery, and all lesions were excised at the same time.Colonoscopy after colonic stent placement is important for preoperative diagnosis of coexisting lesions and planning the extent of resection. These considerations support the utility of colonic stenting for BTS.

  11. Introducing the new BTS Guideline: Management of non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Haworth, Charles S; Floto, R Andres

    2017-11-01

    The new BTS Guidelines for the management of non-tuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease combine the best available evidence with expert consensus to generate a set of pragmatic Guidelines, published as a supplement to this issue of Thorax, to assist in the management of these challenging infections. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  12. Endoscopic stenting as bridge-to-surgery (BTS) in left-sided obstructing colorectal cancer: Experience with conformable stents.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Parodi, Andrea; De Ceglie, Antonella; De Luca, Luca; Conigliaro, Rita; Naspetti, Riccardo; Arpe, Paola; Coccia, Gianni; Conio, Massimo

    2016-11-01

    Compared to emergency surgery, self-expandable metallic stents are effective and safe when used as bridge-to-surgery (BTS) in operable patients with acute colorectal cancer obstruction. In this study, we report data on the new conformable colonic stents. To evaluate clinical effectiveness of conformable stents as BTS in patients with acute colorectal cancer obstruction. This was a retrospective study. The study was conducted at six Italian Endoscopic Units. Data about patients with acute malignant colorectal obstruction were collected between 2007 and 2012. All patients were treated with conformable stents as BTS. Technical success, clinical success, rate of primary anastomosis and colostomy, early and late complications were evaluated. Data about 88 patients (62 males) were reviewed in this study. Conformable SEMS were correctly deployed in 86 out of 88 patients, with resolution of obstruction in all treated patients. Tumor resection with primary anastomosis was possible in all patients. A temporary colostomy was performed in 40. Early complications did not occur. Late complications occurred in 11 patients. Stent migration was significantly higher in patients treated with partially-covered stents compared to the uncovered group (35% vs. 0%, P<0.001). Endoscopical re-intervention was required in 12% of patients. One patient with rectal cancer had an anastomotic dehiscence after surgery and he was successfully treated with endoscopic clipping. One year after surgery, all patients were alive and local recurrence have not been documented. This was a retrospective and uncontrolled study. Preliminary data from this large case series are encouraging, with a high rate of technical and clinical success and low rate of clinically relevant complications. Partially-covered SEMS should be avoided in order to reduce the risk of endoscopic re-intervention. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

  13. Striatal output markers do not alter in response to circling behaviour in 6-OHDA lesioned rats produced by acute or chronic administration of the monoamine uptake inhibitor BTS 74 398.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lane, E L; Cheetham, S; Jenner, P

    2008-01-01

    The monoamine uptake inhibitor BTS 74 398 induces ipsilateral circling in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned rats without induction of abnormal motor behaviours associated with L-dopa administration. We examined whether this was reflected in the expression of peptide mRNA in the direct and indirect striatal output pathways.6-OHDA lesioning of the nigrostriatal pathway increased striatal expression of PPE-A mRNA and decreased levels of PPT mRNA with PPE-B mRNA expression remaining unchanged. Acute L-dopa administration normalised PPE-A mRNA and elevated PPT mRNA while PPE-B mRNA expression remained unchanged. Acute administration of BTS 74 398 did not alter striatal peptide mRNA levels. Following chronic treatment with L-dopa, PPE-A mRNA expression in the lesioned striatum continued to be normalised and PPT mRNA was increased compared to the intact side. PPE-B mRNA expression was also markedly increased relative to the non-lesioned striatum. Chronic BTS 74 398 administration did not alter mRNA expression in the 6-OHDA lesioned striatum although small increases in PPT mRNA expression in the intact and sham lesioned striatum were observed. The failure of BTS 74 398 to induce changes in striatal neuropeptide mRNA correlated with its failure to induce abnormal motor behaviours or behavioural sensitisation but does not explain how it produces a reversal of motor deficits. An action in another area of the brain appears likely and may explain the subsequent failure of BTS 74 398 and related compounds to exert anti-parkinsonian actions in man.

  14. Studi Awal Perencanaan Jumlah Kebutuhan BTS dalam Penerapan Menara Bersama Telekomunikasi di Kota Palangka Raya

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    Ari Gunadi Palilu

    2014-12-01

    Full Text Available Tidak dapat dipungkiri bahwa perkembangan teknologi komunikasi bergerak (seluler saat ini semakin meningkat, hal ini terlihat dari semakin banyak dibangunnya menara  telekomunikasi,   terutama   di   Kota  Palangka  Raya. Menara telekomunikasi yang merupakan faktor pendukung dari layanan telekomunikasi seluler terus-menerus dibangun sebagai bentuk dari kebutuhan masyarakat dalam berkomunikasi. Dalam pembangunan menara telekomunikasi tentunya harus memperhatikan beberapa syarat-syarat umum seperti yang terdapat dalam Surat Edaran Direktur Jenderal Penataan Ruang Kementrian Pekerjaan Umum Nomor:06/SE/Dr/2011 tentang Petunjuk Teknis Kriteria Lokasi Menara Telekomunikasi, yang salah satu syaratnya ialah harus memperhatikan aspek estetika ruang. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghitung jumlah kebutuhan Base Transceiver Station (BTS sebagai bentuk awal dalam penerapan pembangunan menara telekomunikasi sebagai menara bersama. Untuk mencapai tujuan tersebut, perhitungan jumlah pelanggan seluler dan kapasitas trafik menjadi metode perencanaan yang dibutuhkan dalam menentukan jumlah BTS dan menara bersama telekomunikasi dalam kurun waktu 5 (lima tahun ke depan. Diharapkan penelitian ini dapat menjadi referensi awal bagi pemerintah kota Palangka Raya dalam membuat suatu perencanaan atau pedoman dalam pembangunan dan pemberian izin pendirian menara telekomunikasi yang nantinya akan menjadi suatu regulasi mengenai menara telekomunikasi, sehingga pembangunan menara bersama dapat tertata dengan baik dengan tetap memperhatikan kualitas layanan bagi masyarakat.

  15. Analisis Penerapan Metode Transmitter Receiver Unit (TRU Upgrading Untuk Mengatasi Traffic Congestion Jaringan GSM Pada BTS Area Purwokerto Kota

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alfin Hikmaturokhman

    2011-05-01

    Full Text Available Semakin banyaknya pengguna selular maka akan semakin banyak trafik yang akan tertampung. Trafik yang melebihi kapasitas kanal yang disediakan dapat menyebabkan kondisi Traffic Congestion. Untuk menanganinya diperlukan metode penambahan kapasitas kanal agar semua trafik dapat tertampung dengan baik. Metode ini disebut dengan TRU Upgrading. Transmitter Receiver Unit (TRU adalah hardware yang terletak pada Radio Base Station dalam BTS yang berisi slot-slot kanal sedangkan metode TRU Upgrading adalah metode dengan menambahkan/upgrade kapasitas kanal yang tersedia dari konfigurasi TRU yang telah ada sebelumnya, misalkan pada BTS Pabuaran memiliki konfigurasi 3x2x3 karena terjadi kejenuhan pelanggan maka konfigurasi TRU diupgrade menjadi 3x4x3. Perubahan konfigurasi TRU maka merubah konfigurasi BTS-nya serta menambah kapasitas kanalnya. Key Performance Indicator (KPI yang baik pada Indosat adalah menggunakan batas GoS 2%. Nilai GoS ini dikaitkan dengan tabel Erlang untuk mendapatkan sebuah nilai intensitas trafik. Jika nilai intensitas trafik konfigurasi TRU yang digunakan kurang dari nilai intensitas trafik pelanggan maka disebut traffic congestion. Sebagai akibat dari traffic congestion adalah kondisi blocking. TRU Upgrading ini dilakukan dengan harapan nilai blocking panggilan menjadi 0 %. Pada Purwokerto kota, diterapkan  TRU Upgrading untuk cell Grendeng 3, Pabuaran 2, dan Unsoed 1 karena trafik pelanggan yang terjadi melebihi nilai intensitas trafik dari konfigurasi TRU yang digunakan.   Untuk cell Unsoed 1 dan Grendeng 3 meski telah dilakukan TRU Upgrading menjadi 4 buah TRU tetap terjadi traffic congestion sebesar 8 sampai dengan 15 Erlang dikarenakan pada cell-cell ini mengcover area yang padat penduduk. Sedang untuk Pabuaran 2 penerapan TRU upgrading mencapai keefektifan sebesar 100%.

  16. Pleural procedures and patient safety: a national BTS audit of practice.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hooper, Clare E; Welham, Sally A; Maskell, Nick A

    2015-02-01

    The BTS pleural procedures audit collected data over a 2-month period in June and July 2011. In contrast with the 2010 audit, which focussed simply on chest drain insertions, data on all pleural aspirations and local anaesthetic thoracoscopy (LAT) was also collected. Ninety hospitals submitted data, covering a patient population of 33 million. Twenty-one per cent of centres ran a specialist pleural disease clinic, 71% had a nominated chest drain safety lead, and 20% had thoracic surgery on site. Additionally, one-third of centres had a physician-led LAT service. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

  17. The vertical pattern of microwave radiation around BTS (Base Transceiver Station) antennae in Hashtgerd township.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nasseri, Simin; Monazzam, Mohammadreza; Beheshti, Meisam; Zare, Sajad; Mahvi, Amirhosein

    2013-12-20

    New environmental pollutants interfere with the environment and human life along with technology development. One of these pollutants is electromagnetic field. This study determines the vertical microwave radiation pattern of different types of Base Transceiver Station (BTS) antennae in the Hashtgerd city as the capital of Savojbolagh County, Alborz Province of Iran. The basic data including the geographical location of the BTS antennae in the city, brand, operator type, installation and its height was collected from radio communication office, and then the measurements were carried out according to IEEE STD 95. 1 by the SPECTRAN 4060. The statistical analyses were carried out by SPSS16 using Kolmogorov Smirnov test and multiple regression method. Results indicated that in both operators of Irancell and Hamrah-e-Aval (First Operator), the power density rose with an increase in measurement height or decrease in the vertical distance of broadcaster antenna. With mix model test, a significant statistical relationship was observed between measurement height and the average power density in both types of the operators. With increasing measuring height, power density increased in both operators. The study showed installing antennae in a crowded area needs more care because of higher radiation emission. More rigid surfaces and mobile users are two important factors in crowded area that can increase wave density and hence raise public microwave exposure.

  18. CONTENIDO DE POLIAMINAS LIBRES EN PALMAS AFECTADAS POR PUDRICION DEL COGOLLO EN LAS ZONAS CENTRAL Y OCCIDENTAL DE COLOMBIA

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    Hernán Mauricio Romero

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available La pudrición del cogollo (PC es la principal enfermedad de la palma en Colombia. En las zonas palmeras Central (ZC y Oriental (ZE, las palmas enfermas pueden recuperarse naturalmente. En la Zona Occidental (ZW el proceso de recuperación no es evidente. La recuperación de palmas está ligada a gran actividad meristemática que podría involucrar la acción inductora de metabolitos como las poliaminas (PA. Este trabajo muestra la relación entre poliaminas del meristemo y la capacidad de recuperación de palmas con PC, en dos zonas agroclimáticas diferentes. Poliaminas extraídas del meristemo de palmas sembradas en ZC y ZW, fueron analizadas por HPLC. En ZC, donde existe recuperación espontánea, los niveles más altos de PA se presentan en palmas sanas y en recuperación y a medida que avanza la enfermedad la concentración desciende hasta un mínimo en el estado de PC inicial (PCI. Luego la concentración de PA aumenta hasta el estado de Buena Recuperación (BR donde los valores de poliaminas son más altos que los de palmas sanas. En la ZW, con la enfermedad el contenido de PA aumenta llegando al máximo en plantas sin recuperación y el mínimo se presenta en plantas sanas. Las diferencias entre zonas pueden explicarse por diferentes roles de las poliaminas en plantas. En la ZC la cantidad elevada de PA en palmas sanas o en recuperación funcionaría en la inducción de actividad meristemática, para la recuperación espontánea. En la ZW el aumento en el contenido de PA con la enfermedad induciría la generación de especies reactivas de oxígeno para defensa secundaria de la planta ante la imposibilidad de, a través de incrementos en la actividad meristemática producir rápidamente estructuras sanas que no sean reinfectadas.

  19. Effects of Butyltins (BTs) on Mitogen-Activated-Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase (MAP3K) and Ras Activity in Human Natural Killer Cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Celada, Lindsay J.; Whalen, Margaret M.

    2013-01-01

    Butyltins (BTs) contaminate the environment and are found in human blood. BTs, tributyltin (TBT) and dibutyltin (DBT), diminish the cytotoxic function and levels of key proteins of human natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are an initial immune defense against tumors, virally-infected cells and antibody-coated cells and thus critical to human health. The signaling pathways that regulate NK cell functions include mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Studies have shown that exposure to BTs leads to the activation of specific MAPKs and MAPK kinases (MAP2Ks) in human NK cells. MAP2K kinases (MAP3Ks) are upstream activators of MAP2Ks, which then activate MAPKs. The current study examined if BT-induced activation of MAP3Ks was responsible for MAP2K and thus, MAPK activation. This study examines the effects of TBT and DBT on the total levels of two MAP3Ks, c-Raf and ASK1, as well as activating and inhibitory phosphorylation sites on these MAP3Ks. In addition, the immediate upstream activator of c-Raf, Ras, was examined for BT-induced alterations. Our results show significant activation of the MAP3K, c-Raf, in human NK cells within 10 minutes of TBT exposure and the MAP3K, ASK1, after one hour exposures to TBT. In addition, our results suggest that both TBT and DBT are impacting the regulation of c-Raf. PMID:24038145

  20. EVALUACIÓN DE ENZIMAS PARA LA HIDRÓLISIS DE RESIDUOS (HOJAS Y COGOLLOS DE LA COSECHA CAÑA DE AZÚCAR

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    JAIRO G. SALCEDO M.

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo la evaluación de la hidrólisis enzimática de residuos de la cosecha de la caña de azúcar (hojas y cogollos a partir de la preparación de cuatro sustratos con diferentes pretratamientos, entre los que se encuentran: delignificación organosolvente, delignificación enzimática, delignificación con hidróxido de sodio y clorito de sodio y un sustrato base obtenido directamente de la cosecha. Además, se elaboraron cinco enzimas a partir de mezclas de actividades de enzimas comerciales, que fueron evaluadas en los diferentes sustratos. Se introduce un criterio para evaluar la eficiencia de las enzimas a partir de curvas de progreso, porcentaje de sacarificación e índice de sacarificación, a este índice se le denomino "índice global de hidrólisis". Los resultados muestran, que para la hidrólisis con el preparado enzimático E5, que contiene las siguientes actividades enzimáticas: hemicelulusas de 52.75 unidades globales/ml, celulasas total de 27.53 FPU/ml, endoglucanasas de 1782,1 CMC/ml, exoglucanasa de 0.377 UI/ml, betaglucosidasa de 550 pNPG U/ml, xilanasa de 28.23 UI/ml, galactosidasa de 7.1 UI/ml, manasa de 2.76 UI/ml y ranmanasa de 14.63 UI/ml y el sustrato S3, con un contenido de celulosa de 80.53%, hemicelulosa de 13.35, lignina 1.36 y un número de Kappa de 5.85 presenta el mayor índice global de Nhidrólisis que corresponde a un valor de 117.16. El estudio permite concluir que el preparado enzimático E5 presenta un gran potencial para la hidrólisis de los residuos de la caña de azúcar tratados en este proyecto.

  1. Practice organisational characteristics can impact on compliance with the BTS/SIGN asthma guideline: Qualitative comparative case study in primary care

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    Gillies John

    2008-06-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Background Although the BTS-SIGN asthma guideline is one of the most well known and widely respected guidelines in the world, implementation in UK primary care remains patchy. Building on extensive earlier descriptive work, we sought to explore the way teamwork and inter-professional relationships impact on the implementation of the BTS-SIGN guideline on asthma in general practice. Methods Qualitative comparative case study using nine in-depth interviews and 2 focus groups with general practitioners and practice nurses, involved in delivering asthma care. Participants were purposively recruited from practices in a Scottish health board with high and low compliance with the BTS-SIGN asthma guideline. Results There was a marked difference in the way respondents from practices with high compliance and respondents from practices with low compliance spoke about the value of guidelines and the challenges of implementing them. On both accounts, the former were more positive than the latter and were able to be more specific about the strategies they used to overcome barriers to implementation. We explored the reason for this difference in response and identified practice organisation, centring on delegation of work to nurses, as a factor mediating the practice's level of compliance. Effective delegation was underpinned by organisation of asthma work among practice members who have the appropriate level of skills and knowledge, know and understand each others' work and responsibilities, communicate well among themselves and trust each others' skills. It was the combination of these factors which made for successful delegation and guideline implementation, not any one factor in isolation. Conclusion In our sample of practices, teamwork and organisation of care within practices appeared to impact on guideline implementation and further larger studies are needed to explore this issue further. Isolated interventions such as measures to improve staff

  2. Practice organisational characteristics can impact on compliance with the BTS/SIGN asthma guideline: qualitative comparative case study in primary care.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wiener-Ogilvie, Sharon; Huby, Guro; Pinnock, Hilary; Gillies, John; Sheikh, Aziz

    2008-06-04

    Although the BTS-SIGN asthma guideline is one of the most well known and widely respected guidelines in the world, implementation in UK primary care remains patchy. Building on extensive earlier descriptive work, we sought to explore the way teamwork and inter-professional relationships impact on the implementation of the BTS-SIGN guideline on asthma in general practice. Qualitative comparative case study using nine in-depth interviews and 2 focus groups with general practitioners and practice nurses, involved in delivering asthma care. Participants were purposively recruited from practices in a Scottish health board with high and low compliance with the BTS-SIGN asthma guideline. There was a marked difference in the way respondents from practices with high compliance and respondents from practices with low compliance spoke about the value of guidelines and the challenges of implementing them. On both accounts, the former were more positive than the latter and were able to be more specific about the strategies they used to overcome barriers to implementation. We explored the reason for this difference in response and identified practice organisation, centring on delegation of work to nurses, as a factor mediating the practice's level of compliance. Effective delegation was underpinned by organisation of asthma work among practice members who have the appropriate level of skills and knowledge, know and understand each others' work and responsibilities, communicate well among themselves and trust each others' skills. It was the combination of these factors which made for successful delegation and guideline implementation, not any one factor in isolation. In our sample of practices, teamwork and organisation of care within practices appeared to impact on guideline implementation and further larger studies are needed to explore this issue further. Isolated interventions such as measures to improve staff's knowledge or increased clinical resource and time, which are

  3. Oxidoreductive capability of boar sperm mitochondria in fresh semen and during their preservation in BTS extender.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gaczarzewicz, Dariusz; Piasecka, Małgorzata; Udała, Jan; Błaszczyk, Barbara; Laszczyńska, Maria; Kram, Andrzej

    2003-07-01

    The purpose of our study was to determine the effect of dilution and liquid-preservation of boar sperm on oxidoreductive capability of their mitochondria. The semen was diluted with BTS extender produced from water purified by destillation or by reverse osmosis. The spermatozoa were stored over a four-day period at 16-18 degrees C. The function of sperm mitochondria was assessed using the screening cytochemical test for NADH-dependent oxidoreductases (diaphorase/NADH, related to flavoprotein). Morphological assessment of cytochemical reaction was carried out using a light microscope. The intensity of the reaction was evaluated by means of a computer image analysing system (Quantimet 600S), measuring the integrated optical density (IOD) and mean optical density (MOD) of the reaction product (formazans) occurring in the sperm midpieces. In the non-diluted semen, intensive cytochemical reaction throughout the length of the sperm midpiece was observed. Furthermore, spermatozoa with the intensive reaction displayed the high optical density values. After dilution the semen with two variants of experimental extender, and as the conservation time expired, the cytochemical reaction was less intensive. Moreover, the absence of formazan deposits in various parts of the sperm midpiece was also noted. These morphological features corresponded to low values of optical density. These findings suggest that the dilution of semen and the time of sperm preservation may be critical factors that handicap energy metabolism of sperm mitochondria. The type of water used in preparing BTS extender does not have any significant effect on the oxidoreductive capability of sperm boar mitochondria.

  4. Investigation of Vertical Microwave Publishing Caused by the Base Transceiver Station (BTS Antennas in Hashtgerd City

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    Simin Naseri

    2013-12-01

    Full Text Available Background and Objectives: New Hazards interface the environment and human life along with technology development. One of these pollutants is electromagnetic field and it’s known and unknown bad effects on the environment, this study determines the vertical publishing (height measurement of microwave antennas in the city of Hashtgerd. Methods: The basic information including the geographical location of the BTS antennas in the city, brand, the operator type, installation and its height was received from CRA and radio communications, and then the measuring was done by using the standard method of IEEE STD 95. 1 by the SPECTRAN 4060, and by using crane elevator in 17-meters height near the BTS antennas (15 meters.analysis were done by Spss16 and by Kolmogorov Smirnov test, multiple regression method. Results: Results show that in the both operators of Irancell and Hamrah-e-aval, density will increase by increasing measurement height or decreasing the vertical distance of broadcaster antenna. Regarding to the mix model test, a meaningful statistical relationship can be seen between measurement height and the density average in both types of the operators. Conclusion: while measuring height increased or in other words got closer to the antennas, density average increased in both operators, so the highest number was reported in the minimum vertical distance compared to the Irancell operator antenna was 25 mw/m2 and the lowest number was related to Hamrah-e-aval operator in the maximum vertical distance which was 0.02mw/m2. Thus, people stationed in the tall buildings parallel with installation height of antennas or in less vertical distance of them, are more exposed to the waves.

  5. Management of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in adult solid organ transplant recipients - BCSH and BTS Guidelines.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Parker, Anne; Bowles, Kristin; Bradley, J Andrew; Emery, Vincent; Featherstone, Carrie; Gupte, Girish; Marcus, Robert; Parameshwar, Jayan; Ramsay, Alan; Newstead, Charles

    2010-06-01

    A joint working group established by the Haemato-oncology subgroup of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology (BCSH) and the British Transplantation Society (BTS) has reviewed the available literature and made recommendations for the diagnosis and management of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in adult recipients of solid organ transplants. This review details the therapeutic options recommended including reduction in immunosuppression (RIS), transplant organ resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Effective therapy should be instituted before progressive disease results in declining performance status and multi-organ dysfunction. The goal of treatment should be a durable complete remission with retention of transplanted organ function with minimal toxicity.

  6. BTS randomised feasibility study of active symptom control with or without chemotherapy in malignant pleural mesothelioma: ISRCTN 54469112.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Muers, M F; Rudd, R M; O'Brien, M E R; Qian, W; Hodson, A; Parmar, M K B; Girling, D J

    2004-02-01

    The incidence of mesothelioma is rising rapidly in the UK. There is no generally accepted standard treatment. The BTS recommends active symptom control (ASC). It is not known whether chemotherapy in addition prolongs survival or provides worthwhile palliation with acceptable toxicity. Palliation as recorded by patients has been fully reported for only two regimens: mitomycin, vinblastine, and cisplatin (MVP), and vinorelbine (N). The BTS and collaborators planned to conduct a phase III randomised trial comparing ASC only, ASC+MVP, and ASC+N in 840 patients with survival as the primary outcome measure. The aim of the present study was to assess the acceptability of the trial design to patients and the suitability of two standard quality of life (QL) questionnaires for mesothelioma. Collaborating centres registered all new patients with mesothelioma. Those eligible and giving informed consent completed EORTC QLQ-C30+LC13 and FACT-L QL questionnaires and were randomised between all three or any two of (1) ASC only, (2) ASC+4 cycles of MVP, and (3) ASC+12 weekly doses of N. During 1 year, 242 patients were registered of whom 109 (45%) were randomised (55% of the 197 eligible patients). Fifty two patients from 20 centres were randomised to an option including ASC only. This translates into a rate of 312 per year from 60 centres interested in collaborating in the phase III trial. The EORTC QL questionnaire was superior to FACT-L in terms of completeness of data and patient preference. Clinically relevant palliation was achieved with ASC. The planned phase III trial is feasible.

  7. Diagnosis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in solid organ transplant recipients - BCSH and BTS Guidelines.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Parker, Anne; Bowles, Kristin; Bradley, J Andrew; Emery, Vincent; Featherstone, Carrie; Gupte, Girish; Marcus, Robert; Parameshwar, Jayan; Ramsay, Alan; Newstead, Charles

    2010-06-01

    A joint working group established by the Haemato-oncology subgroup of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology (BCSH) and the British Transplantation Society (BTS) has reviewed the available literature and made recommendations for the diagnosis and management of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) in adult recipients of solid organ transplants. This review details the risk factors predisposing to development, initial features and diagnosis. It is important that the risk of developing PTLD is considered when using post transplant immunosuppression and that the appropriate investigations are carried out when there are suspicions of the diagnosis. These must include tissue for histology and computed tomography scan to assess the extent of disease. These recommendations have been made primarily for adult patients, there have been some comments made with regard to paediatric practice.

  8. Summary of the 2008 BTS/SIGN British Guideline on the management of asthma.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Levy, Mark L; Thomas, Mike; Small, Iain; Pearce, Linda; Pinnock, Hilary; Stephenson, Paul

    2009-01-01

    The 2008 BTS/SIGN British Guideline on the management of asthma provides comprehensive updated evidence-based guidance on asthma management for healthcare professionals. This primary care-focussed summary has been produced to aid dissemination and implementation of the key guideline messages into primary care. The section on diagnosis emphasises the new integrated symptom-based approach with clinicians using their deductive skills to determine the probability that the patient has asthma. The various tools used for monitoring asthma are discussed. There are sections on both non-pharmacological and pharmacological management of chronic asthma in adults and children. Treatment options for children are subdivided into the under-5s and children aged 5-12 years. Poor asthma control is manifested by exacerbations and acute asthma. Personalised asthma action plans for guided self management should be provided and used when levels of asthma control change. There are sections on difficult asthma and the treatment of exacerbations and acute severe asthma. Various outcome measures for auditing the quality of asthma care are discussed.

  9. Permanent magnet DC motor control by using arduino and motor drive module BTS7960

    Science.gov (United States)

    Syukriyadin, S.; Syahrizal, S.; Mansur, G.; Ramadhan, H. P.

    2018-05-01

    This study proposes a control system for permanent magnet DC (PMDC) motor. PMDC drive control system has two critical parameters: control and monitoring. Control system includes rotation speed control and direction of rotation of motor using motor drive module BTS7960. The PWM signal has a fixed frequency of waves with varying duty cycles (between 0% and 100%), so the motor rotation can be regulated gradually using a potentiometer already programmed on the Arduino Uno board. The motor rotation direction setting uses the H-bridge circuit method using a 3-way switch to set the direction of forward-reverse rotation of the motor. The monitoring system includes measurements of rotational speed, current, and voltage. Motor rotation speed can be adjusted from the armature voltage settings through the duty cycle PWM setting so that the motor speed can be increased or decreased by the desired duty cycle. From the unload PMDC motor test results it has also been shown that the torque of the motor is relatively constant when there is a change in speed from low rpm to high rpm or vice versa.

  10. Clinical pharmacology of sibutramine hydrochloride (BTS 54524), a new antidepressant, in healthy volunteers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    King, D J; Devaney, N

    1988-01-01

    The cardiovascular, anticholinergic and central effects of single doses of 30, 45 and 60 mg of sibutramine hydrochloride (BTS 54524), a new potential antidepressant, were compared with amitriptyline (50 mg) and placebo given at weekly intervals in a randomised design to six healthy male volunteers. Sibutramine was associated with increases in both supine heart rate and systolic blood pressure at 1, 2 and 6 h after 60 mg (P less than 0.05). Amitriptyline caused a significant 50-60% decrease in salivation compared with placebo at 2 and 6 h but there were no changes with sibutramine. No significant changes in pupil size were detected with either drug. Visual analogue rating scales (VARS) revealed significant drowsiness with amitriptyline but neither sedative nor stimulant effects with sibutramine. Impairments of simple auditory and visual reaction times, visual two-choice reaction time, finger tapping and trail making, measured using an automated test battery, occurred with amitriptyline compared with sibutramine. If sibutramine proves to be an effective antidepressant it should be devoid of anticholinergic or central depressant effects. Chronic dosage studies are indicated to evaluate the clinical significance of its cardiovascular effects. PMID:3207566

  11. Cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis and lung cancer: the BTS study.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Harris, J M; Johnston, I D A; Rudd, R; Taylor, A J Newman; Cullinan, P

    2010-01-01

    The risk of lung cancer is often reported to be increased for patients with cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (CFA). Vital status was sought for all 588 members of the British Thoracic Society (BTS) cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (CFA) study 11 years after entry to the cohort. Observed deaths due to lung cancer were compared with expected deaths using age-, sex- and period-adjusted national rates. The roles of reported asbestos exposure and smoking were also investigated. 488 cohort members (83%) had died; 46 (9%) were certified to lung cancer (ICD9 162). The standardised mortality ratio (SMR) was 7.4 (95% CI 5.4 to 9.9). Stratified analysis showed increased lung cancer mortality among younger subjects, men and ever smokers. Using an independent expert panel, 25 cohort members (4%) were considered to have at least moderate exposure to asbestos; the risk of lung cancer was increased for these subjects (SMR 13.1 (95% CI 3.6 to 33.6)) vs 7.2 (95% CI 5.2 to 9.7) for those with less or no asbestos exposure). Ever smoking was reported by 448 (73%) of the cohort and was considerably higher in men than in women (92% vs 49%; p<0.001). Most persons who died from lung cancer were male (87%), and all but two (96%) had ever smoked. Ever smokers presented at a younger age (mean 67 vs 70 years; p<0.001) and with less breathlessness (12% smokers reported no breathlessness vs 5% never smokers; p = 0.02). These findings confirm an association between CFA and lung cancer although this relationship may not be causal. The high rate of smoking and evidence that smokers present for medical attention earlier than non-smokers suggest that smoking could be confounding this association.

  12. Enhanced thermostability of silica-immobilized lipase from Bacillus coagulans BTS-3 and synthesis of ethyl propionate.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kumar, Satyendra; Pahujani, Shweta; Ola, R P; Kanwar, S S; Gupta, Reena

    2006-06-01

    A lipase from the thermophilic isolate Bacillus coagulans BTS-3 was produced and purified. The enzyme was purified 40-fold to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE-Sepharose column chromatography. Its molecular weight was 31 kDa on SDS-PAGE. The purified lipase was immobilized on silica and its binding efficiency was found to be 60%. The enzyme took 60 min to bind maximally onto the support. The pH and temperature optima of immobilized lipase were same as those of the free enzyme, i.e. 8.5 and 55 degrees C, respectively. The immobilized enzyme had shown marked thermostability on the elevated temperatures of 55, 60, 65 and 70 degrees C. The immobilized enzyme was reused for eigth cycles as it retained almost 80% of its activity. The catalytic activity of immobilized enzyme was enhanced in n-hexane and ethanol. The immobilized enzyme when used for esterification of ethanol and propionic acid showed 96% conversion in n-hexane in 12 h at 55 degrees C.

  13. Production, purification, and characterization of lipase from thermophilic and alkaliphilic Bacillus coagulans BTS-3.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kumar, Satyendra; Kikon, Khyodano; Upadhyay, Ashutosh; Kanwar, Shamsher S; Gupta, Reena

    2005-05-01

    A thermophilic isolate Bacillus coagulans BTS-3 produced an extracellular alkaline lipase, the production of which was substantially enhanced when the type of carbon source, nitrogen source, and the initial pH of culture medium were consecutively optimized. Lipase activity 1.16 U/ml of culture medium was obtained in 48 h at 55 degrees C and pH 8.5 with refined mustard oil as carbon source and a combination of peptone and yeast extract (1:1) as nitrogen sources. The enzyme was purified 40-fold to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation and DEAE-Sepharose column chromatography. Its molecular weight was 31 kDa on SDS-PAGE. The enzyme showed maximum activity at 55 degrees C and pH 8.5, and was stable between pH 8.0 and 10.5 and at temperatures up to 70 degrees C. The enzyme was found to be inhibited by Al3+, Co2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+ ions while K+, Fe3+, Hg2+, and Mg2+ ions enhanced the enzyme activity; Na+ ions have no effect on enzyme activity. The purified lipase showed a variable specificity/hydrolytic activity towards various 4-nitrophenyl esters.

  14. The prophylactic effect of vitamin C on induced oxidative stress in rat testis following exposure to 900 MHz radio frequency wave generated by a BTS antenna model.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jelodar, Gholamali; Nazifi, Saeed; Akbari, Abolfazl

    2013-09-01

    Radio frequency wave (RFW) generated by base transceiver station (BTS) has been reported to make deleterious effects on reproduction, possibly through oxidative stress. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of RFW generated by BTS on oxidative stress in testis and the prophylactic effect of vitamin C by measuring the antioxidant enzymes activity, including glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Thirty-two adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups and treated daily for 45 days as follows: sham, sham+vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg of body weight/day by gavage), RFW (exposed to 900 MHz RFW) 'sham' and 'RFW' animals were given the vehicle, i.e., distilled water and the RFW+vitamin C group (received vitamin C in addition to exposure to RFW). At the end of the experiment, all the rats were sacrificed and their testes were removed and used for measurement of antioxidant enzymes and MDA activity. The results indicate that exposure to RFW in the test group decreased antioxidant enzymes activity and increased MDA compared with the control groups (p < 0.05). In the treated group, vitamin C improved antioxidant enzymes activity and reduced MDA compared with the test group (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that RFW causes oxidative stress in testis and vitamin C improves the antioxidant enzymes activity and decreases MDA.

  15. Prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease according to BTS, ERS, GOLD and ATS criteria in relation to doctor's diagnosis, symptoms, age, gender, and smoking habits.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lindberg, Anne; Jonsson, Ann-Christin; Rönmark, Eva; Lundgren, Rune; Larsson, Lars-Gunnar; Lundbäck, Bo

    2005-01-01

    Guidelines and standards for diagnosis and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been presented by different national and international societies, but the spirometric criteria for COPD differ between guidelines. To estimate prevalence of COPD using the guidelines of the British Thoracic Society (BTS), the European Respiratory Society (ERS), the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), and the American Thoracic Society (ATS). Further, to evaluate reported airway symptoms, contacts with health care providers, and physician diagnosis of COPD in relation to the respective criteria, and gender differences. In 1992 a postal questionnaire was sent to a random sample of adults aged 20-69 years, 4,851 (85%) out of 5,681 subjects responded. In 1994-1995 a random sample of the responders, 970 subjects, were invited to a structured interview and a lung function test; 666 (69%) participated. The prevalence of COPD was 7.6, 14.0, 14.1, 12.2 and 34.1% according to BTS, ERS, GOLD, clinical ATS (with symptoms or physician diagnosis), and spirometric ATS criteria, respectively. Prevalent COPD was related to age, smoking habits and family history of obstructive airway disease but not to gender. Physician diagnosis of chronic bronchitis or emphysema was only reported by 16.3, 12.2, 11.0, 23.4 and 8.2% of subjects fulfilling the respective criteria, though a majority reported airway symptoms. The main determinants for prevalent COPD were age, smoking habits and spirometric criteria of COPD. Though a majority reported airway symptoms and contact with health care providers due to respiratory complaints, only a minority was diagnosed as having COPD, indicating a large underdiagnosis. Copyright (c) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  16. 5-HT has contrasting effects in the frontal cortex, but not the hypothalamus, on changes in noradrenaline efflux induced by the monoamine releasing-agent, d-amphetamine, and the reuptake inhibitor, BTS 54 354.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Géranton, Sandrine M; Heal, David J; Stanford, S Clare

    2004-03-01

    There is extensive evidence for functional interactions between central noradrenergic and serotonergic neurones. Here, dual-probe microdialysis was used in freely-moving rats to compare the effects of 5-HT on noradrenergic transmission in the rat frontal cortex and hypothalamus. We studied the effects of the 5-HT synthesis inhibitor, para-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA; which depleted 5-HT stores in both the frontal cortex and the hypothalamus), on spontaneous efflux of noradrenaline and on the noradrenergic responses to d-amphetamine, and the monoamine reuptake inhibitor, BTS 54 354. pCPA pretreatment alone did not affect spontaneous noradrenaline efflux in either brain region, whether or not alpha2-autoreceptors were inactivated by administration of the alpha2-antagonist, atipamezole (1 mg/kg i.p). However, in the frontal cortex, pCPA pretreatment augmented the amplitude of, and prolonged, the noradrenergic response to local infusion of d-amphetamine (10 microM). In contrast, pCPA abolished the increase in cortical noradrenaline efflux induced by local infusion of BTS 54 354 (50 microM). In the hypothalamus, pCPA did not affect the amplitude of the response to either of these agents but did prolong the effects of d-amphetamine on noradrenaline efflux. These findings suggest that serotonergic transmission has complex effects on the noradrenergic response to drugs that increase noradrenergic transmission in the frontal cortex, but has less influence in the hypothalamus.

  17. Studies on the epidemiology of spear rot in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) in Suriname

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Lande, van de H.L.

    1993-01-01

    The epidemiology of spear rot, an infectious disease of unknown etiology, was studied over 10 years at three government-owned oil palm plantations in Suriname. As with other and similar diseases, amarelecimento fatal in Brazil and pudrición del cogollo in Latin America, which too show rot

  18. Analysis of slope slip surface case study landslide road segment Purwantoro-Nawangan/Bts Jatim Km 89+400

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Purnomo, Joko Sidik; Purwana, Yusep Muslih; Surjandari, Niken Silmi

    2017-01-01

    Wonogiri is a region of south eastern part of Central Java province which borders with East Java and Yogyakarta Province. In Physiographic its mostly undulating hills so that the frequent occurrence of landslides, especially during the rainy season. Landslide disaster that just happened that on the road segment Purwantoro-Nawangan / Bts Jatim Km 89 + 400 were included in the authority of the Highways Department of Central Java Province. During this time, Error analysis of slope stability is not caused by a lot of presumption shape of slip surface, but by an error in determining the location of the critical slip surface. This study aims to find the shape and location slip surface landslide on segment Purwantoro - Nawangan Km 89 + 400 with the interpretation of soil test results. This research method is with the interpretation of CPT test and Bore Hole as well as modeling use limit equilibrium method and finite element method. Processing contours of the slopes in the landslide area resulted in three cross section that slopes A-A, B-B and C-C which will be modeling the slopes. Modeling slopes with dry and wet conditions at the third cross section slope. It was found that the form of the slope slip surface are known to be composite depth 1.5-2 m with safety factor values more than 1.2 (stable) when conditions are dry slopes. But its became failure with factor of safety < 0.44 when conditions are wet slopes. (paper)

  19. Thermoelectric Transport Properties of Cu Nanoprecipitates Embedded Bi2Te2.7Se0.3

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Eunsil Lee

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available We suggest a simple and scalable synthesis to prepare Cu-Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 (Cu-BTS nanocomposites. By precipitating Cu nanoparticle (NP in colloidal suspension of as-exfoliated BTS, homogeneous mixtures of Cu NP and BTS nanosheet were readily achieved, and then the sintered nanocomposites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering technique using the mixed powder as a raw material. The precipitated Cu NPs in the BTS matrix effectively generated nanograin (BTS and heterointerface (Cu/BTS structures. The maximum ZT of 0.90 at 400 K, which is 15% higher compared to that of pristine BTS, was obtained in 3 vol% Cu-BTS nanocomposite. The enhancement of ZT resulted from improved power factor by carrier filtering effect due to the Cu nanoprecipitates in the BTS matrix.

  20. [Influence of toxin botulin on walk stereotype of children with juvenile cerebral palsy. The functional examination performed by BTS, comprehensive movement analysis system. A preliminary report].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kwiecień-Czerwieniec, Ilona; Krukowska, Jolanta; Woldańska-Okońska, Marta

    2014-01-01

    Juvenile Cerebral Palsy--is caused by damage of the motor control centers of the developing brain (cerebral refers to the cerebrum, which is the affected area of the brain, although the disorder probably involves connections between the cortex and other parts of the brain and palsy refers to disorder of movement). The clinical symptoms of juvenile cerebral palsy are very diversified and include gross and fine motor-coordination disorders, manual ability, locomotion, perception and response, speech, psychomotor retardation, emotional disorders. The primary therapeutic problem in children with cerebral palsy is learning to move in a lower position and learning to walk. The aim of this research is evaluation the action of the botulinum toxin on gait pattern of children with cerebral palsy. Application of a comprehensive BTS analysis of gait will get accurate, consistent EBM (Evidence Base Medicine) results. The children with pyramidal syndrome of juvenile cerebral palsy have been included in the examinations. The children have been divided into 2 random groups: group I--children treated with standard therapy a neurodevelopmental rehabilitation and classic kinesiotherapy, group II--hildren treated with standard therapy --eurodevelopmental rehabilitation, classic kinesiotherapy and a botulinum toxin. The children were examined three times: before the therapy, after 6 weeks of treatment and after 3 months of treatment. In the research BTS comprehensive motion analysis system have been used where influence of toxin botulin on walk stereotype of children was assessed. The treatment connected with standard rehabilitation and using botulinum toxin brings quicker walk improvement. Comparing the above treatment methods of influence on the walk stereotype of children with juvenile cerebral palsy, we can confirm, that standard treatment brings regular improvement, still, it requires longer period of time, often even 3 months. Using botulinum toxin brings quicker walk improvement

  1. Effect of Phellinus baumii-Biotransformed Soybean Powder on Lipid Metabolism in Rats.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Dae Ik; Kim, Kil Soo; Kang, Ji Hyuk; Kim, Hye Jeong

    2013-06-01

    In this study, we evaluated the hypolipidemic and antioxidative effects of biotransformed soybean powder (BTS; Phellinus baumii-fermented soybean) on lipid metabolism in rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) male rats were divided into basal diet group (BA), high fat diet group (HF), high fat diet containing 10% BTS group (10 BTS), and high fat diet containing 20% BTS group (20 BTS). Changes in the content of various isoflavones, including daidzein and genistein, within the soybean after fermentation to BTS were investigated. The levels of daidzein and genistein were 149.28 μg/g and 364.31 μg/g, respectively. After six weeks experimental period, Food efficiency ratio in the 10 and 20 BTS group was significantly lower than the HF group (PBTS group were significantly lower than the HF group. The levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance were significantly lower in the groups that received 10% and 20% BTS than the HF. The activities of SOD and CAT were significantly higher in the 10 and 20 BTS group than the HF group. The activity of XO in the 10 and 20 BTS group was significantly lower than in the HF group by 20% and 23%, respectively. In conclusion, these data suggest that BTS is an effective agent in improving lipid metabolism and antioxidant enzyme system.

  2. 77 FR 2345 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Request for Nominations

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-01-17

    ... and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT... BTS solicits nominations for interested persons to serve on the ACTS. The ACTS is composed of BTS... transportation statistics and analyses collected, supported, or disseminated by the BTS and DOT. DATES...

  3. 78 FR 66104 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-11-04

    ... advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability, consistency... current BTS products; (3) Follow-up discussion of strategies for assuring and enhancing quality of BTS products; (4) Future directions for BTS programs; (5) Public Comments and Closing Remarks. Participation is...

  4. 77 FR 31432 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Extension of Credit to...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-05-25

    ... AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS... Gorham, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE... it collects for non-statistical purposes. BTS hereby notifies the respondents and the public that BTS...

  5. 78 FR 25783 - Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection: National Census of Ferry Operators

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-05-02

    ... Operators AGENCY: Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), Research and Innovative Technology... of the BTS to request the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB's) approval for an information... BTS on the BTS Web page. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before July 1, 2013. ADDRESSES: You...

  6. 77 FR 64375 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-10-19

    ... of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability, consistency, objectivity, and...) Update on BTS data programs and future plans; (5) Council Members review and discussion of BTS programs... Freiberg, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room E34-429, Washington, DC 20590, or faxed to (202) 366-3640. BTS...

  7. 78 FR 43968 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Passenger Origin-Destination Survey Report

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-07-22

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U..., Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-441, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington... it collects for non-statistical purposes. BTS hereby notifies the respondents and the public that BTS...

  8. 75 FR 3274 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Passenger Origin-Destination Survey Report

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-20

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U... Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-409, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590... for non-statistical purposes. BTS hereby notifies the respondents and the public that BTS uses the...

  9. Upgrading tantalum and niobium oxides content in Bangka tin slag with double leaching

    Science.gov (United States)

    Soedarsono, J. W.; Permana, S.; Hutauruk, J. K.; Adhyputra, R.; Rustandi, A.; Maksum, A.; Widana, K. S.; Trinopiawan, K.; Anggraini, M.

    2018-03-01

    Tantalum has become one of the 14 types of critical materials where the level of its availability is assumed as the midterm critical metal. Benefits of the element tantalum in the electronics field increased the deficit balance of supply / demand, as more variations of electronic products developed. The tantalum experts calculated the level of availability until 2020. Base on the previous studies, tin slag is a secondary source of tantalum and niobium. This study uses tin slag from Bangka, Indonesia, abbreviated, Bangka Tin Slag (BTS). BTS was roasted, water quenched and sieved, abbreviated BTS-RQS.BTS was roasted, water quenched and sieved, abbreviated BTS-RQS.BTS-RQS was roasted at a temperature 700□C given sample code BTS-R700QS, while roasted at 800°C given sample code BTS-R800QS.A variable leaching experiment on BTS-R700QS was solvent concentration variable and on BTS-R800QS was time variable. The entire residue was characterized by X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), and the optimum results are on the BTS-R800QS leaching into 5 M NaOH for 20 min followed by 5M HCl for 50 min, with content of Ta2O5 and Nb2O51.56% and 1.11%, respectively. The result of XRF measurement showed was the increasing of TNO content due to the increasing solvent concentration and time of acid leaching. The discussion of thermodynamics this study used was HSC Chemistry 6 as a supporting data.

  10. 咪鲜胺及其制剂和主要代谢物对三叶浮萍SOD和POD活性的影响%Effect of Prochloraz, Its Formulation and Major Metabolites on the Activities of SOD and POD in Lemna pau-cicostata

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    卫麦霞; 龚道新; 黎定军; 任竞; 刘名扬; 汪传刚

    2008-01-01

    为了全面正确地评价咪鲜胺及其制剂和主要代谢物施用后的生态环境效应和生物毒性,以三叶浮萍(Lemna Paucicostata)为实验材料,采用光照恒温培养法,研究了咪鲜胺及其制剂和主要代谢物(包括BTS44595、BTS44596和BTS45186)对三叶浮萍体内超氧化物歧化酶(SOD)和过氧化物酶(POD)活性的影响.结果表明,随着处理浓度的升高,Prochloraz、Sportak、BTS44595和BTS44596对SOD活性和POD活性的影响由激活作用转变为抑制作用,而BTS45186对SOD和POD活性的影响则表现为抑制作用,且浓度越高,对SOD和POD活性的抑制作用越强;Prochloraz和Sportak对SOD和POD活性的影响较大, 但两者之间的差异不大,不过Proehloraz对三叶浮萍的SOD和POD活性的影响早于Sportak的影响.Pmchloraz及其主要代谢产物对SOD和POD活性影响的大小顺序 :B3S45186>Prochloraz>BTS44596>BTS44595.这说明Prochloraz降解为代谢产物BTS44595和BTS44596的过程是一个毒性下降的解毒过程,而BTS44595和BTS44596降解为BTS45186的过程是一个毒性上升的增毒过程.

  11. Sistem Pakar Troubleshooting Base Transceiver Station untuk Efisiensi Kinerja Teknisi (Studi Kasus : Pt.kms Telecom Pekanbaru)

    OpenAIRE

    Yunefri, Yogi

    2016-01-01

    Dalam suatu jaringan telekomunikasi, Base Transceiver Station (BTS) sangatlah penting, karena menghubungkan jaringan suatu operator telekomunikasi seluler dengan pelanggannya. Keterbatasan tenaga ahli yang berpengalaman dalam maintanance BTS akan menghambat pelayanan operator yang optimal kepada pelanggan, sehingga diperlukanlah suatu sistem pakar yang dapat menggantikan kemampuan dari tenaga ahli dalam melakukan penanganan troubleshooting BTS. Desain program troubleshooting BTS pada peneliti...

  12. Criopreservação do sêmen de curimba (Prochilodus lineatus mediante adição de diferentes diluidores, ativadores e crioprotetores Cryopreservation of curimba (Prochilodus lineatus semen after addition of different diluters, activators and cryoprotectants

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luis David Solis Murgas

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available Amostras de sêmen de cinco espécimes de Prochilodus lineatus (Valencienes, 1847 foram utilizadas para avaliação dos efeitos tóxicos e crioprotetores de seis soluções à base de BTS (Beltsville Thawing Solution® 4,5% enriquecidas com metanol e DMSO nas concentrações de 10% (A = BTS 4,5% + Metanol 10%; B = BTS 4,5% + DMSO 10%; C = BTS 4,5% + KCl 0,072% + metanol 10%; D = BTS 4,5% + KCl 0,072% + DMSO 10%; E = BTS 4,5% + KI 0,036% + metanol 10%; e F = BTS 4,5% + KI 0,036% + DMSO 10%. Foram avaliadas ainda três soluções ativadoras (água destilada, NaHCO3 60 mM e NaHCO3 119 mM, antes e após o congelamento. Estudaram-se a taxa e a duração da motilidade espermática. Não houve diferença significativa entre as soluções crioprotetoras utilizadas. O sêmen ativado por NaHCO3 60 e 119 mM apresentou as maiores taxas de motilidade espermática. A ativação por NaHCO3 119 mM possibilitou as maiores durações de motilidade no sêmen de P. lineatus.Semen samples of five specimens of Prochilodus lineatus (Valencienes, 1847 were used to test the toxic and cryoprotectants effects of six solutions based on BTS (Beltsville Thawing Solution® 4.5%: A - BTS 4.5% + Methanol 10%; B - BTS 4.5% + DMSO 10%; C - BTS 4.5% + KCl 0.072% + Methanol 10%; D - BTS 4.5% + KCl 0.072% + DMSO 10%; E - BTS 4.5% + KI 0.036% + Methanol 10% and F - BTS 4.5% + KI 0.036% + DMSO 10%. The effect of other three activator solutions (Distillated Water, NaHCO3 60 mM and NaHCO3 119 mM on the rate and duration of sperm motility were also evaluated before and after freezing. No significant differences were observed among the cryoprotectant solutions. Sperm motility rates for P. lineatus were higher for semen activated by NaHCO3 60mM and NaHCO3 119mM, which propitiated the highest sperm motility duration.

  13. Validating Bayesian truth serum in large-scale online human experiments.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Frank, Morgan R; Cebrian, Manuel; Pickard, Galen; Rahwan, Iyad

    2017-01-01

    Bayesian truth serum (BTS) is an exciting new method for improving honesty and information quality in multiple-choice survey, but, despite the method's mathematical reliance on large sample sizes, existing literature about BTS only focuses on small experiments. Combined with the prevalence of online survey platforms, such as Amazon's Mechanical Turk, which facilitate surveys with hundreds or thousands of participants, BTS must be effective in large-scale experiments for BTS to become a readily accepted tool in real-world applications. We demonstrate that BTS quantifiably improves honesty in large-scale online surveys where the "honest" distribution of answers is known in expectation on aggregate. Furthermore, we explore a marketing application where "honest" answers cannot be known, but find that BTS treatment impacts the resulting distributions of answers.

  14. Intervention on Surgical Systemic-to-Pulmonary Artery Shunts: Carotid Versus Femoral Access.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ligon, R Allen; Ooi, Yinn K; Kim, Dennis W; Vincent, Robert N; Petit, Christopher J

    2017-09-11

    The purpose of this study was to compare results between the femoral arterial (FA) and carotid arterial (CA) approaches in catheter-based interventions on Blalock-Taussig shunts (BTS). Transcatheter intervention on BTS is often performed in shunt-dependent, hypoxemic infants. The approach to BTS intervention likely has an impact on timeliness and overall success. The authors reviewed all cases of catheter intervention for BTS obstruction between 2012 and 2017 for their institution. They sought to compare procedural success rates and time, sheath time, time to arterial access, and time from access to stent implantation between FA and CA approaches. There were 42 BTS interventions between 34 patients. BTS intervention was more successful from the CA approach (p = 0.035). Among the FA cohort, BTS intervention was unsuccessful in 8 cases (25%), 5 of which were converted to CA with subsequent success. The CA cohort had lower procedure time (62 min vs. 104 min; p = 0.01) and anesthesia time (119 min vs. 151 min; p = 0.01). Additionally, CA access was associated with shorter time to arterial access (4.0 min vs. 9.3 min; p BTS (6.5 min vs. 13 min; p BTS stent implantation (9 min vs. 20 min; p BTS deliberately. The authors' approach has been the carotid artery as an alternative access site-associated with greater procedural success, shorter procedural time, and shorter time to stent implantation. Copyright © 2017 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. 78 FR 44042 - Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held By...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-07-23

    ... helicopters. All of the BTs are dated October 3, 2012. The BTs specify a one-time inspection of each rod end assembly, P/Ns M004-01H007-041 and M004-01H007-045, to determine its serial number. The BTs then require... rod ends in these batches. According to the BTs, no one was injured in the helicopters and no...

  16. Procesos espaciales asociados a la construcción de la doble calzada BTS en los municipios de Tunja, Cómbita y Oicatá (2005-2012

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Andrés Felipe Bautista Vargas

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Se aborda el estudio de los procesos espaciales asociados a la construcción de la infraestructura vial de la doble calzada Briceño-Tunja-Sogamoso BTS, en los municipios de Tunja, Cómbita y Oicatá, en Colombia, a través de la fotointerpretación de imágenes Spot 2005 y Google Map Tiff 2012, aplicando la lectura de la leyenda nacional de coberturas de la tierra metodología Corine Land Cover (CLC adaptación para Colombia escala 1:100.000 (Ministerio de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sostenible, 2010. Se advirtieron diferentes procesos espaciotemporales no lineales, que obedecen a la incidencia de la infraestructura vial en la localización de nuevo tejido urbano discontinuo, fragmentación predial, y cambio de coberturas en su área de influencia. Como resultado se obtuvo un análisis espaciotemporal 2005-2012, conjugado con la estimación de la valorización predial, el cual resulta adecuado para apreciar la incidencia en el área de influencia, como evidenciar cambios transicionales en el uso del suelo.

  17. Baseline Tumor Size Is an Independent Prognostic Factor for Overall Survival in Patients With Melanoma Treated With Pembrolizumab.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Joseph, Richard W; Elassaiss-Schaap, Jeroen; Kefford, Richard F; Hwu, Wen-Jen; Wolchok, Jedd D; Joshua, Anthony Michael; Ribas, Antoni; Hodi, F Stephen; Hamid, Omid; Robert, Caroline; Daud, Adil I; Dronca, Roxana S; Hersey, Peter; Weber, Jeffrey S; Patnaik, Amita; de Alwis, Dinesh P; Perrone, Andrea M; Zhang, Jin; Kang, Soonmo Peter; Ebbinghaus, Scot W; Anderson, Keaven M; Gangadhar, Tara

    2018-04-23

    To assess the association of baseline tumor size (BTS) with other baseline clinical factors and outcomes in pembrolizumab-treated patients with advanced melanoma in KEYNOTE-001 (NCT01295827). BTS was quantified by adding the sum of the longest dimensions of all measurable baseline target lesions. BTS as a dichotomous and continuous variable was evaluated with other baseline factors using logistic regression for objective response rate (ORR) and Cox regression for overall survival (OS). Nominal P values with no multiplicity adjustment describe the strength of observed associations. Per central review by RECIST v1.1, 583 of 655 patients had baseline measurable disease and were included in this post hoc analysis. Median BTS was 10.2 cm (range, 1-89.5). Larger median BTS was associated with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 1, elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), stage M1c disease, and liver metastases (with or without any other sites) (all P ≤ 0.001). In univariate analyses, BTS below the median was associated with higher ORR (44% vs 23%; P BTS below the median remained an independent prognostic marker of OS (P BTS below the median and PD-L1-positive tumors were independently associated with higher ORR and longer OS. BTS is associated with many other baseline clinical factors but is also independently prognostic of survival in pembrolizumab-treated patients with advanced melanoma. Copyright ©2018, American Association for Cancer Research.

  18. The importance of environmental factors and matrices in the adsorption, desorption, and toxicity of butyltins

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Fang, Liping; Xu, Cuihong; Li, Ji

    2017-01-01

    detrimental effects on humans and aquatic organisms. This work provides a critical review of recent studies on the adsorption, desorption, bioaccumulation, and toxicity of BTs that can notably influence the distribution of BTs in the environment. Influence of environmental factors (e.g., pH and salinity......Butyltins (BTs) are considered as a group of the most important organometallic compounds in industry and agriculture. Due to their widespread use, large amounts of BTs including tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT), and monobutyltin (MBT) have entered into the environment, and subsequently causing......) and adsorbents in the matrices (e.g., minerals, organic carbons, and quartz) on the adsorption, desorption, and toxicity of BTs is particularly addressed....

  19. Pemanfaatan Google Maps Api Untuk Visualisasi Data Base Transceiver Station

    OpenAIRE

    Rani, Septia

    2016-01-01

    This paper discusses the use of the Google Maps API to perform data visualization for Base Transceiver Station (BTS) data. BTS are typically used by telecommunications companies to facilitate wireless communication between communication devices with the network operator. Each BTS has important information such as it's location, it's transaction traffic, as well as information about revenue. With the implementation of BTS data visualization using the Google Maps API, key information owned by e...

  20. PEMANFAATAN GOOGLE MAPS API UNTUK VISUALISASI DATA BASE TRANSCEIVER STATION

    OpenAIRE

    Rani, Septia

    2016-01-01

    This paper discusses the use of the Google Maps API to perform data visualization for Base Transceiver Station (BTS) data. BTS are typically used by telecommunications companies to facilitate wireless communication between communication devices with the network operator. Each BTS has important information such as it’s location, it’s transaction traffic, as well as information about revenue. With the implementation of BTS data visualization using the Google Maps API, key information owned by e...

  1. Pemanfaatan Google Maps Api Untuk Visualisasi Data Base Transceiver Station

    OpenAIRE

    Rani, Septia

    2016-01-01

    This paper discusses the use of the Google Maps API to perform data visualization for Base Transceiver Station (BTS) data. BTS are typically used by telecommunications companies to facilitate wireless communication between communication devices with the network operator. Each BTS has important information such as it’s location, it’s transaction traffic, as well as information about revenue. With the implementation of BTS data visualization using the Google Maps API, key information owned by e...

  2. 78 FR 26113 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-05-03

    ... of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability, consistency, objectivity, and... introduction of Council Members; (2) Discussion of the usefulness and visibility of current BTS products; (3) Strategies for assuring and enhancing quality of BTS products; (4) Preparations for reauthorization; (5...

  3. 77 FR 18305 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-03-27

    ... Confirmed Space--BTS Form 251 AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of... BTS collecting reports on the number of passengers holding confirmed reservations that voluntarily or...

  4. 77 FR 16116 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Extension of Credit to...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-03-19

    ... Transportation Statistics [Docket: RITA 2008-0002 BTS Paperwork Reduction Notice] Agency Information Collection... of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork..., industry and other governmental parties to comment on the continuing need and usefulness of BTS collecting...

  5. 78 FR 43272 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-07-19

    ... Confirmed Space--BTS Form 251 AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of... governmental parties to comment on the continuing need for and usefulness of BTS collecting reports on the...

  6. 76 FR 4992 - Agency Information Collection: Activity Under OMB Review: Report of Financial and Operating...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-01-27

    ... Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance... and usefulness of BTS collecting financial data from large certificated air carriers. Large..., RTS-42, Room E36-303, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001, Telephone...

  7. 76 FR 4993 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Financial and Operating...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-01-27

    ... for Small Aircraft Operators AGENCY: Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice... continuing need for and usefulness of BTS collecting financial, traffic and operating statistics from small... address whether BTS accurately estimated the reporting burden and if there are other ways to enhance the...

  8. 75 FR 21717 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-04-26

    ... Confirmed Space--BTS Form 251 AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of... and other governmental parties to comment on the continuing need for and usefulness of BTS collecting...

  9. Awareness and Self-Reported Health Hazards of Electromagnetic Waves from Mobile Phone Towers in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A Pilot Study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sheikh Mohammed Shariful Islam

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Background. Over the last few years there have been concerns regarding the health effects of electromagnetic waves (EMW produced by mobile phone base transmitter stations (BTS. Data on possible health effects of EMW in developing countries are rare. This study was conducted to determine the awareness and self-reported health hazards of EMW from the mobile phone BTS in Dhaka city. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 220 respondents living around BTS in Dhaka city. Data was collected on sociodemographic characteristics, mobile phone use, BTS and EMW awareness, and self-reported health problems. Results. The majority of respondents (92.7% reported to have seen a BTS but only 29.5% knows how it works and 74.5% had no knowledge about the EMW. 49% respondents experienced sleeping disturbances while recent episodes of headache or dizziness were reported by 47% and mood change or anxiety or depression by 41%. About 22% complained about other physical or mental symptoms. Conclusion. Awareness about the possible health hazards from EMW of BTS is low among the inhabitants of Dhaka city. A number of respondents mentioned recent health effects but the association with BTS could not be established.

  10. 77 FR 33808 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review: Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-06-07

    ... Confirmed Space--BTS Form 251 AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of..., Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-410, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington...

  11. 75 FR 6250 - Notice of Submission to OMB for an Information Collection: National Census of Ferry Operators

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-02-08

    ... Operators AGENCY: Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), Research and Innovative Technology...) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the intention of the BTS to request the... existing ferry operations. A summary report of survey findings will be published on the BTS Web page. The...

  12. 77 FR 10616 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-02-22

    .... 2) to advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability, consistency... budget; (4) Update on BTS data programs and future plans; (5) Council Members review and discussion of BTS programs and plans; (6) Public Comments and Closing Remarks. Participation is open to the public...

  13. 78 FR 60997 - Agency Information Collection: Activity Under OMB Review: Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-10-02

    ... Confirmed Space--BTS Form 251 AGENCY: Research & Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of...: Cecelia Robinson, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-410, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue...

  14. 77 FR 12364 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review: Reporting Required for International...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-02-29

    ...), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork..., industry and other governmental parties to comment on the continuing need and usefulness of BTS collecting... whether (1) the supplemental reports are needed by BTS to fulfill the United States treaty obligation of...

  15. 75 FR 54695 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-09-08

    .... 2) to advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability, consistency... Strategic Plan and related BTS products; (4) Council Members review and discussion of statistical programs... E34-403, Washington, DC 20590, [email protected] or faxed to (202) 366-3640. BTS requests that...

  16. 76 FR 39152 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Financial and Operating...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-07-05

    ... (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the... CONTACT: Jennifer Fabrizi, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-420, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey... Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, 725-17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20503, Attention: RITA/BTS...

  17. 78 FR 11732 - Agency Information Collection Activity; Notice of Request for Public Comment and Submission to...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-02-19

    ... AGENCY: Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), Research and Innovative Technology Administration... of section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, BTS announces its plan to submit the.... On November 5, 2012, BTS published a Federal Register notice (77 FR 66502), allowing for a 60-day...

  18. 77 FR 26824 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Reporting Required for International...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-05-07

    ...), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork... CONTACT: Jeff Gorham, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue..., Office of Management and Budget, 725-17th Street NW., Washington, DC 20503, Attention: RITA/BTS Desk...

  19. 78 FR 28943 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Passenger Origin-Destination Survey Report

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-05-16

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995... governmental parties to comment on the continuing need for and usefulness of BTS collecting a sample of airline... collection is still needed by the Department of Transportation; (b) BTS accurately estimates the reporting...

  20. 78 FR 12140 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Part 249 Preservation of Records

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-02-21

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995... governmental parties to comment on the continuing need for and usefulness of BTS requiring certificated air... CONTACT: Jeff Gorham, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue...

  1. 76 FR 39155 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Financial and Operating...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-07-05

    ... Administration (RITA), Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance... INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeff Gorham, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-414, RITA, BTS, 1200 New... Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, 725-17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20503, Attention: RITA/BTS...

  2. Analisis Studi Komperatif Perbandingan Key Performance Index Swap Huawei dengan Nokia Siemens Network pada Operator Telkomsel (Sto Tebas)

    OpenAIRE

    Jimmy

    2015-01-01

    – The need for telecommunications is very important and makes the mobile operators including Telkomsel are trying ways to improvise their network system, by optimizing the BTSs one of way is to maintain and even increase the success call rate by optimizing the device by swapping Huawei BTS to Nokia Siemens Network (NSN) BTS. The results of the KPI comparison between the Huawei's BTS with Nokia Siemens Network's on the SDSR on Huawei BTS percentage of success rate is 99.59% raised calls is hig...

  3. Thermoelectric properties of unoxidized graphene/Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2.7}Se{sub 0.3} composites synthesized by exfoliation/re-assembly method

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Jin Il; Lee, Eun Sil; Kim, Jong-Young [Icheon Branch, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology, Gyeonggi-do (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Soon-Mok [School of Energy, Materials and Chemical Engineering, Korea University of Technology and Education, Cheonan (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Kyu Hyoung [Materials R and D Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Yongin (Korea, Republic of); Seo, Won-Seon [Energy and Environmental Division, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2014-04-15

    Nanocomposites of n-type thermoelectric Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2.7}Se{sub 0.3} (BTS) and unoxidized graphene (UG) were prepared from the exfoliated BTS and UG nanoplatelets. Polycrystalline BTS ingots were exfoliated into nanoscroll-type crystals by chemical exfoliation, and were re-assembled with UG nanoplatelets. The composites were chemically reduced by hydrazine hydrate and sintered by a spark-plasma-sintering method. The thermoelectric properties of the sintered composites were evaluated and exhibited decreased carrier concentration and increased thermal conductivity due to the embedded graphene. The peak ZT values for the UG/BTS-US and UG/BTS-EX composites were ∝0.8 at the UG concentration of 0.05 wt%. (copyright 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  4. Promotive effect of Bofutsushosan (Fangfengtongshengsan) on lipid and cholesterol excretion in feces in mice treated with a high-fat diet.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Akaki, Junji; Tachi, Shiori; Nakamura, Naoki; Arai, Tetsuya; Yamasaki, Hiroo; Inoue, Makoto; Makino, Toshiaki

    2018-06-28

    Bofutsushosan (fangfengtongshengsan in Chinese, BTS) is a formula in traditional Japanese Kampo medicine and Chinese medicine comprising 18 crude drugs that is used for treating obesity and metabolic syndrome. We evaluated the promotive effects of BTS on lipid and cholesterol elimination in mice. Mice were reared with a high-fat diet containing boiled water extract of BTS for 30 days, and their biochemical parameters as well as the weight and lipid content of feces were measured. We also measured cholesterol uptake into Caco-2 cells cultured with or without BTS extract. The body weight and amounts of visceral fat and subcutaneous fat on day 28; the weights of epididymal, perirenal, and mesenteric fat; and the serum concentrations of triglyceride, glucose, and hemoglobin A1c on day 30 were significantly lower in the BTS extract-treated groups than in the control in a dose-dependent manner. The amounts of lipid and cholesterol in the feces collected from day 6-23 were significantly greater than in the control. When Caco-2 cells were incubated with BTS extract, the uptake of cholesterol into cells was significantly reduced in a concentration-dependent manner. Among the components of BTS, the methanol extracts of Platycodi Radix and Zingiberis Rhizoma contribute but the extracts of Ephedrae Herba and Rhei Rhizoma counteract the suppressive effect of BTS on cholesterol uptake into Caco-2 cells. BTS has beneficial effects on obesity and metabolic syndrome, and its mechanisms of action include the promotion of lipid elimination and the inhibition of cholesterol absorption in the intestine. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. 14 CFR 298.60 - General reporting instructions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... air carrier shall file with the Department's Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) the applicable schedules of BTS Form 298-C, A Report of Financial and Operating Statistics for Small Aircraft Operators... Market” as required by this section. (b) A single copy of the BTS Form 298-C report shall be filed...

  6. 77 FR 52109 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision of Currently-Approved Information Collection...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-08-28

    ... (BTS), now part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), to former chapter XI... responsibility for the F&OS program from BTS to FMCSA in the belief that the program was more aligned with FMCSA... financial and statistical reporting regulations of BTS, that were formerly located at chapter XI, subchapter...

  7. 77 FR 23792 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Two Currently-Approved Information...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-04-20

    ... (BTS), now part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), to former chapter XI... responsibility for the F&OS program from BTS to FMCSA in the belief that the program was more aligned with FMCSA... financial and statistical reporting regulations of BTS, that were formerly located at chapter XI, subchapter...

  8. 77 FR 57182 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Currently-Approved Information Collection...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-09-17

    ... the former Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), now part of the Research and Innovative... F&OS program from BTS to FMCSA in the belief that the program was more aligned with FMCSA's mission... statistical reporting regulations of BTS, that were formerly located in chapter XI, subchapter B of title 49...

  9. 75 FR 41921 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Passengers Denied Confirmed...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-07-19

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U..., Room E36-303, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001, Telephone Number (202...., Washington, DC 20503, Attention: RITA/BTS Desk Officer. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: OMB Approval No. 2138-0018...

  10. 78 FR 25352 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Preservation of Air carrier Records

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-04-30

    ... Statistics (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U... of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-414, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC... Budget, 725--17th Street NW., Washington, DC 20503, Attention: RITA/BTS Desk Officer. SUPPLEMENTARY...

  11. 78 FR 11950 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-02-20

    ... Committee Act (5 U.S.C., App. 2) to advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality...) Discussion of performance measures; (4) Update on BTS data programs and future plans; (5) Council Members review and discussion of BTS programs and plans; (6) Public Comments and Closing Remarks. Participation...

  12. 78 FR 14153 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-03-04

    ...., Washington, DC. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) will reschedule the meeting for a future date. Currently, BTS is developing a draft agenda. The following is a summary of the draft meeting agenda: (1... performance measures; (4) Update on BTS data programs and future plans (5) Council Members review and...

  13. 75 FR 32317 - Proposed Revocation of Colored Federal Airway G-4; AK

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-06-08

    ... the Wood River (BTS) Non-directional Beacon (NDB) near the town of Dillingham, Alaska. DATES: Comments...) part 71 by removing Colored Federal airway G-4 associated with the planned BTS NDB decommissioning near Dillingham, AK. The BTS NDB has been non-operational for over two years. Colored Federal Airways are...

  14. Measuring transferring similarity via local information

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yin, Likang; Deng, Yong

    2018-05-01

    Recommender systems have developed along with the web science, and how to measure the similarity between users is crucial for processing collaborative filtering recommendation. Many efficient models have been proposed (i.g., the Pearson coefficient) to measure the direct correlation. However, the direct correlation measures are greatly affected by the sparsity of dataset. In other words, the direct correlation measures would present an inauthentic similarity if two users have a very few commonly selected objects. Transferring similarity overcomes this drawback by considering their common neighbors (i.e., the intermediates). Yet, the transferring similarity also has its drawback since it can only provide the interval of similarity. To break the limitations, we propose the Belief Transferring Similarity (BTS) model. The contributions of BTS model are: (1) BTS model addresses the issue of the sparsity of dataset by considering the high-order similarity. (2) BTS model transforms uncertain interval to a certain state based on fuzzy systems theory. (3) BTS model is able to combine the transferring similarity of different intermediates using information fusion method. Finally, we compare BTS models with nine different link prediction methods in nine different networks, and we also illustrate the convergence property and efficiency of the BTS model.

  15. A Review of Environmental Occurrence, Fate, Exposure, and Toxicity of Benzothiazoles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liao, Chunyang; Kim, Un-Jung; Kannan, Kurunthachalam

    2018-05-01

    Benzothiazole and its derivatives (BTs) are high production volume chemicals that have been used for several decades in a large number of industrial and consumer products, including vulcanization accelerators, corrosion inhibitors, fungicides, herbicides, algicides, and ultraviolet (UV) light stabilizers. Several benzothiazole derivatives are used commercially, and widespread use of these chemicals has led to ubiquitous occurrence in diverse environmental compartments. BTs have been reported to be dermal sensitizers, respiratory tract irritants, endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, and genotoxicants. This article reviews occurrence and fate of a select group of BTs in the environment, as well as human exposure and toxicity. BTs have frequently been found in various environmental matrices at concentrations ranging from sub-ng/L (surface water) to several tens of μg/g (indoor dust). The use of BTs in a number of consumer products, especially in rubber products, has resulted in widespread human exposure. BTs undergo chemical, biological, and photolytic degradation in the environment, creating several transformation products. Of these, 2-thiocyanomethylthio-benzothiazole (2-SCNMeS-BTH) has been shown to be the most toxic. Epidemiological studies have shown excess risks of cancers, including bladder cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia, among rubber factory workers, particularly those exposed to 2-mercapto-benzothiazole (2-SH-BTH). Human exposure to BTs continues to be a concern.

  16. 77 FR 57183 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Currently-Approved Information Collection...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-09-17

    ...&OS program to the former Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), now part of the Research and... responsibility for the F&OS program from BTS to FMCSA in the belief that the program was more aligned with FMCSA... financial and statistical reporting regulations of BTS, that were formerly located in chapter XI, subchapter...

  17. 75 FR 34925 - Posting of Flight Delay Data on Web Sites

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-06-21

    ... Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the 15th day of the month, which at times falls on the third Saturday of the... both activities and having the carriers file required BTS data and upload flight performance... their Web sites before submitting the flight data to BTS. ATA, RAA, and ACAA represent all but one of...

  18. Comparative analysis of LytS/LytTR-type histidine kinase/response regulator systems in γ-proteobacteria.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Stefan Behr

    Full Text Available Bacterial histidine kinase/response regulator systems operate at the interface between environmental cues and physiological states. Escherichia coli contains two LytS/LytTR-type histidine kinase/response regulator systems, BtsS/BtsR (formerly YehU/YehT and YpdA/YpdB, which have been identified as pyruvate-responsive two-component systems. Since they exhibit remarkable similarity, we analyzed their phylogenetic distribution within the γ-proteobacteria, and experimentally characterized them in a set of representative species. We found that BtsS/BtsR is the predominant LytS/LytTR-type two-component system among γ-proteobacteria, whereas YpdA/YpdB primarily appears in a supplementary role. Based on our observations in E. coli, we used the highly conserved DNA-binding motifs to test the in vivo functionality of both systems in various genera, including Salmonella, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Xenorhabdus, Yersinia, Aeromonas and Vibrio. The results suggest that, in all cases tested, BtsS/BtsR and YpdA/YpdB respond to different levels of pyruvate in the environment.

  19. 77 FR 23793 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of a Currently-Approved Information...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-04-20

    ... Statistics on September 30, 1998 (63 FR 52192). Pursuant to this authority, the BTS, now part of the Research... transferred the responsibility for the F&OS program from BTS, to FMCSA (69 FR 51009). On August 10, 2006 (71... financial and statistical reporting regulations of BTS that were formerly located at chapter XI of title 49...

  20. 77 FR 59244 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Extension of Currently-Approved Information Collection...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-09-26

    ... September 30, 1998 (63 FR 52192). Pursuant to this authority, the BTS, now part of the Research and... transferred the responsibility for the F&OS program from BTS to FMCSA (69 FR 51009). On August 10, 2006 (71 FR... financial and statistical reporting regulations of BTS formerly located in chapter XI of title 49 CFR to...

  1. Contamination of butyltin compounds in Malaysian marine environments

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sudaryanto, Agus; Takahashi, Shin; Iwata, Hisato; Tanabe, Shinsuke; Ismail, Ahmad

    2004-01-01

    Concentration of butyltin compounds (BTs), including tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) and total tin (ΣSn) were determined in green mussel (Perna viridis), 10 species of muscle fish and sediment from coastal waters of Malaysia. BTs were detected in all these samples ranging from 3.6 to 900 ng/g wet wt., 3.6 to 210 ng/g wet wt., and 18 to 1400 ng/g dry wt. for mussels, fish and sediments, respectively. The concentrations of BTs in several locations of this study were comparable with the reported values from some developed countries and highest among Asian developing nations. Considerable concentration of BTs in several locations might have ecotoxicological consequences and may cause concern to human health. The parent compound TBT was found to be highest than those of its degradation compounds, DBT and MBT, suggesting recent input of TBT to the Malaysian marine environment. Significant positive correlation (Spearman rank correlation: r 2 =0.82, P<0.0001) was found between BTs and ΣSn, implying considerable anthropogenic input of butyltin compounds to total tin contamination levels. Enormous boating activities may be a major source of BTs in this country, although aquaculture activities may not be ignored. - Lack of any regulation of TBT clearly resulted in a heavy contamination of BTs in Malaysia

  2. Contamination of butyltin compounds in Malaysian marine environments

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sudaryanto, Agus; Takahashi, Shin; Iwata, Hisato; Tanabe, Shinsuke; Ismail, Ahmad

    2004-08-01

    Concentration of butyltin compounds (BTs), including tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) and total tin ({sigma}Sn) were determined in green mussel (Perna viridis), 10 species of muscle fish and sediment from coastal waters of Malaysia. BTs were detected in all these samples ranging from 3.6 to 900 ng/g wet wt., 3.6 to 210 ng/g wet wt., and 18 to 1400 ng/g dry wt. for mussels, fish and sediments, respectively. The concentrations of BTs in several locations of this study were comparable with the reported values from some developed countries and highest among Asian developing nations. Considerable concentration of BTs in several locations might have ecotoxicological consequences and may cause concern to human health. The parent compound TBT was found to be highest than those of its degradation compounds, DBT and MBT, suggesting recent input of TBT to the Malaysian marine environment. Significant positive correlation (Spearman rank correlation: r{sup 2}=0.82, P<0.0001) was found between BTs and {sigma}Sn, implying considerable anthropogenic input of butyltin compounds to total tin contamination levels. Enormous boating activities may be a major source of BTs in this country, although aquaculture activities may not be ignored. - Lack of any regulation of TBT clearly resulted in a heavy contamination of BTs in Malaysia.

  3. 78 FR 69595 - Airworthiness Directives; AgustaWestland S.p.A. (Type Certificate Formerly Held by Agusta S.p.A...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-11-20

    ...-55 for Model A109K2 helicopters, and No. 119-052 for Model A119 helicopters. All of the BTs are dated December 19, 2012. The BTs specify to perform a visual inspection of bolt, P/N 109-8131-09-1, in accordance... BTs specify replacement of the bolt if there is any damage, even if minor, or if there is missing...

  4. Perancangan Photovoltaic Stand Alone Sebagai Catu Daya Pada Base Transceiver Station Telekomunikasi Di Pulau Nusa Penida

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    I P Eka Indrawan

    2013-06-01

    Full Text Available Salah satu perangkat dalam jaringan komunikasi seluler adalah BTS (Base Transceiver Station. BTS yang ada di pulau Nusa Penida adalah BTS Nusa Penida dengan alamat desa kutampi dengan luas 500 m2. Sistem kelistrikan BTS  Nusa Penida dipasok oleh PLN dan genset,  dimana pada saat terjadi pemadaman energi listrik pada umumnya mempergunakan genset sebagai sumber energi listrik. Penggunaan genset mengakibatkan biaya operasional sangat tinggi, untuk itu diperlukan sumber lain yang lebih efisien. Besarnya potensi insolasi sinar harian matahari di Nusa penida, bisa sebagai  alternatif lain untuk sumber energi listrik dimana energi matahari bisa sebagai energi terbarukan untuk catu daya tambahan di BTS Nusa Penida yang pada akhirnya dapat menjaga  kestabilan suplai energi listrik ke BTS dan akses masyarakat terhadap informasi melalui seluler menjadi tidak terganggu. PV (Photovoltaic merupakan salah satu energi terbarukan yang dapat digunakan sebagai energi terbarukan untuk catu daya tambahan di BTS. Sistem PV yang dikembangkan untuk mensuplai energi listrik di BTS direncanakan sebesar 25%, adalah sistem PV yang hybrid dengan suplai listrik PLN. Besar daya PV yang dibangkitkan untuk mensuplai energi listrik di BTS adalah 9 kWp, yang dihasilkan dari panel PV sebanyak 45 panel dengan kapasitas panel PV adalah 200Wp dan kapasitas baterai yang akan digunakan adalah 3.800 Ah dengan total baterai 16. Analisis kelayakan investasi PV tanpa baterai dan PV dengan baterai yang dilakukan dengan menggunakan NPV, PI dan DPP menunjukkan hasil bahwa investasi PV layak untuk dilaksanakan. Untuk nilai NPV dan PI didapatkan kedua hasil investasi (> 0. Sedangkan untuk DPP didapatkan kedua hasil investasi dihasilkan lebih kecil dari periode umur proyek yang sudah ditetapkan, yaitu selama 25 tahun.

  5. Colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer: advantages and disadvantages.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Haraguchi, Naotsugu; Ikeda, Masataka; Miyake, Masakazu; Yamada, Takuya; Sakakibara, Yuko; Mita, Eiji; Doki, Yuichiro; Mori, Masaki; Sekimoto, Mitsugu

    2016-11-01

    To clarify the advantages and disadvantages of stenting as a bridge to surgery (BTS) by comparing the clinical features and outcomes of patients who underwent BTS with those of patients who underwent emergency surgery (ES). We assessed technical success, clinical success, surgical procedures, stoma formation, complications, clinicopathological features, and Onodera's prognostic nutritional index (OPNI) in patients who underwent BTS and those who underwent ES. Twenty-six patients underwent stenting, which was successful in 22 (BTS group). The remaining four patients with unsuccessful stenting underwent emergency surgery. A total of 22 patients underwent emergency surgery (ES group). The rates of technical and clinical success were 85.0 and 81.0 %, respectively. The proportion of patients able to be treated by laparoscopic surgery (P = 0.0001) and avoid colostomy (P = 0.0042) was significantly higher in the BTS group. Although the incidence of anastomotic leakage in the two groups was not significantly different, it was significantly reduced by colonoscopic evaluation of obstructive colitis (P = 0.0251). The mean number of harvested lymph nodes (P = 0.0056) and the proportion of D3 lymphadenectomy (P = 0.0241) were significantly greater in the BTS group. Perineural invasion (PNI) was noted in 59.1 and 18.2 % of the BTS group and ES group patients, respectively (P = 0.0053). OPNI and serum albumin decreased significantly after stenting (P = 0.0084). The advantages of stenting as a BTS were that it avoided colostomy and allowed for laparoscopic surgery and lymphadenectomy, whereas its disadvantage lay in the decreased PNI and OPNI levels. A larger study including an analysis of prognosis is warranted.

  6. Real-time biscuit tile image segmentation method based on edge detection.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Matić, Tomislav; Aleksi, Ivan; Hocenski, Željko; Kraus, Dieter

    2018-05-01

    In this paper we propose a novel real-time Biscuit Tile Segmentation (BTS) method for images from ceramic tile production line. BTS method is based on signal change detection and contour tracing with a main goal of separating tile pixels from background in images captured on the production line. Usually, human operators are visually inspecting and classifying produced ceramic tiles. Computer vision and image processing techniques can automate visual inspection process if they fulfill real-time requirements. Important step in this process is a real-time tile pixels segmentation. BTS method is implemented for parallel execution on a GPU device to satisfy the real-time constraints of tile production line. BTS method outperforms 2D threshold-based methods, 1D edge detection methods and contour-based methods. Proposed BTS method is in use in the biscuit tile production line. Copyright © 2018 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Baecklund transformations for integrable lattice equations

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Atkinson, James

    2008-01-01

    We give new Baecklund transformations (BTs) for some known integrable (in the sense of being multidimensionally consistent) quadrilateral lattice equations. As opposed to the natural auto-BT inherent in every such equation, these BTs are of two other kinds. Specifically, it is found that some equations admit additional auto-BTs (with Baecklund parameter), whilst some pairs of apparently distinct equations admit a BT which connects them

  8. Overproduction of Geranylgeraniol by Metabolically Engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae▿

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tokuhiro, Kenro; Muramatsu, Masayoshi; Ohto, Chikara; Kawaguchi, Toshiya; Obata, Shusei; Muramoto, Nobuhiko; Hirai, Masana; Takahashi, Haruo; Kondo, Akihiko; Sakuradani, Eiji; Shimizu, Sakayu

    2009-01-01

    (E, E, E)-Geranylgeraniol (GGOH) is a valuable starting material for perfumes and pharmaceutical products. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, GGOH is synthesized from the end products of the mevalonate pathway through the sequential reactions of farnesyl diphosphate synthetase (encoded by the ERG20 gene), geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (the BTS1 gene), and some endogenous phosphatases. We demonstrated that overexpression of the diacylglycerol diphosphate phosphatase (DPP1) gene could promote GGOH production. We also found that overexpression of a BTS1-DPP1 fusion gene was more efficient for producing GGOH than coexpression of these genes separately. Overexpression of the hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG1) gene, which encodes the major rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway, resulted in overproduction of squalene (191.9 mg liter−1) rather than GGOH (0.2 mg liter−1) in test tube cultures. Coexpression of the BTS1-DPP1 fusion gene along with the HMG1 gene partially redirected the metabolic flux from squalene to GGOH. Additional expression of a BTS1-ERG20 fusion gene resulted in an almost complete shift of the flux to GGOH production (228.8 mg liter−1 GGOH and 6.5 mg liter−1 squalene). Finally, we constructed a diploid prototrophic strain coexpressing the HMG1, BTS1-DPP1, and BTS1-ERG20 genes from multicopy integration vectors. This strain attained 3.31 g liter−1 GGOH production in a 10-liter jar fermentor with gradual feeding of a mixed glucose and ethanol solution. The use of bifunctional fusion genes such as the BTS1-DPP1 and ERG20-BTS1 genes that code sequential enzymes in the metabolic pathway was an effective method for metabolic engineering. PMID:19592534

  9. Optimasi Penempatan Lokasi Potensial Menara Baru Bersama Pada Sistem Telekomunikasi Seluler Dengan Menggunakan Fuzzy Clustering Di Daerah Sidoarjo

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Muthmainnah Muthmainnah

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Mengikuti perkembangan jumlah pelanggan seluler yang semakin pesat, para operator terus berusaha membangun infrastruktur agar layanan dan kualitasnya semakin meningkat. Salah satu infrastruktur penyelenggaraan yang terus menerus dibangun adalah Base Transceiver Station. Namun, pembangunan BTS tersebut harus mempertimbangkan estetika dan kesesuaian dengan Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah (RTRW. Tugas akhir ini bertujuan untuk menerapkan metode Fuzzy Clustering dan Harmony Search untuk mengoptimalkan penempatan lokasi potensial menara baru sehingga diperoleh solusi yang optimal. Selain RTRW, titik potensial juga dapat ditentukan dengan menggunakan titik pusat cluster melalui metode Fuzzy C-Means. Setelah itu titik menara baru dapat dioptimasi dengan menggunakan metode Harmony Search dengan meminimalkan fungsi path loss. Hasil optimasi menunjukan bahwa untuk layanan 2G membutuhkan penambahan BTS sebanyak 343 BTS yang mampu melayani kebutuhan trafik sebesar 42230 Erlang, sedangkan untuk layanan 3G membutuhkan penambahan BTS sebanyak 278 BTS yang mampu melayani Offered Bit Quantity (OBQ sebesar 1160857  Kbps dengan total luas coverage BTS nya sebesar 60.798 km2. namun dari segi jumlah menaranya tidak terjadi penambahan pada kedua jenis layanan ini. Hal ini dimaksudkan agar dapat mengefisienkan penggunaan menara eksisting. Dengan menggunakan metode Fuzzy Subtractive Clustering diperoleh 3 (tiga jumlah cluster yang optimal di setiap kecamatan.

  10. Evaluating laboratory request forms submitted to haematology and blood transfusion departments at a hospital in Northwest Nigeria

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Feyisayo Jegede

    2016-05-01

    Objective: We assessed routinely-submitted LRFs to determine the degree of correctness, completeness and consistency. Methods: LRFs submitted to the Department of Haematology (DH and Blood Transfusion Services (BTS of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano, Nigeria, between October 2014 and December 2014, were evaluated for completion of all items on the forms. Performance in four quality indicator domains, including patient identifiers, test request details, laboratory details and physician details, was derived as a composite percentage. Results: Of the 2084 LRFs evaluated, 999 were from DH and 1085 from BTS. Overall, LRF completeness was 89.5% for DH and 81.2% for BTS. Information on patient name, patient location and laboratory number were 100% complete for DH, whereas only patient name was 100% complete for BTS. Incomplete information was mostly encountered on BTS forms for physician’s signature (60.8% and signature of laboratory receiver (63.5%. None of the DH and only 9.4% of BTS LRFs met all quality indicator indices. Conclusion: The level of completion of LRFs from these two departments was suboptimal. This underscores the need to review and redesign the LRF, improve on training and communication between laboratory and clinical staff and review specimen rejection practices.

  11. Baecklund transformations and zero-curvature representations of systems of partial differential equations

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Brandt, F.

    1993-01-01

    It is shown that Baecklund transformations (BTs) and zero-curvature representations (ZCRs) of systems of partial differential equations (PDEs) are closely related. The connection is established by nonlinear representations of the symmetry group underlying the ZCR which induce gauge transformations relating different BTs. This connection is used to construct BTs from ZCRs (and vice versa). Furthermore a procedure is outlined which allows a systematic search for ZCRs of a given system of PDEs. (orig.)

  12. Flexible bronchoscopic management of benign tracheal stenosis: long term follow-up of 115 patients

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fox Benjamin D

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Background Management of benign tracheal stenosis (BTS varies with the type and extent of the disease and influenced by the patient's age and general health status, hence we sought to investigate the long-term outcome of patients with BTS that underwent minimally invasive bronchoscopic treatment. Methods Patients with symptomatic BTS were treated with flexible bronchoscopy therapeutic modalities that included the following: balloon dilatation, laser photo-resection, self-expanding metal stent placement, and High-dose rate endobronchial brachytherapy used in cases of refractory stent-related granulation tissue formation. Results A total of 115 patients with BTS and various cardiac and respiratory co-morbidities with a mean age of 61 (range 40-88 were treated between January 2001 and January 2009. The underlining etiologies for BTS were post - endotracheal intubation (N = 76 post-tracheostomy (N = 30, Wegener's granulomatosis (N = 2, sarcoidosis (N = 2, amyloidosis (N = 2 and idiopathic BTS (N = 3. The modalities used were: balloon dilatation and laser treatment (N = 98. Stent was placed in 33 patients of whom 28 also underwent brachytherapy. Complications were minor and mostly included granulation tissue formation. The overall success rate was 87%. Over a median follow-up of 51 months (range 10-100 months, 30 patients (26% died, mostly due to exacerbation of their underlying conditions. Conclusions BTS in elderly patients with co-morbidities can be safely and effectively treated by flexible bronchoscopic treatment modalities. The use of HDR brachytherapy to treat granulation tissue formation following successful airway restoration is promising.

  13. Occurrence of benzothiazole and its derivates in tire wear, road dust, and roadside soil.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Jing; Zhang, Xinfeng; Wu, Lin; Wang, Ting; Zhao, Jingbo; Zhang, Yanjie; Men, Zhengyu; Mao, Hongjun

    2018-06-01

    Benzothiazole (BT) and its derivates are commonly used as vulcanization accelerators in rubber production. Information on the occurrence of BTs in road dust (RD) and on human exposure to these compounds is very limited. BT and its six derivates in tire wear particles (TWPs) and RD were determined in this study. Samples were extracted using solid-liquid extraction, purified by a HLB SPE column, and determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). All seven BTs were found in 17 TWPs samples from different tire brands. The mass fractions of all seven BTs (∑BTs) in TWPs ranged from 46.93 to 215 μg/g with an average concentration of 99.32 μg/g. Benzothiazole and 2-hydroxybenzothiazole (2-OH-BT) were the two major compounds, accounting for 56%-89% of the total. The seven BTs were also found in all 36 sets of RD samples (each set included one sample of TSP (particles < 75 μm in diameter), PM 10 (particles < 10 μm in diameter) and PM 2.5 (particles < 2.5 μm in diameter)) fractions of RD. The median ∑BTs concentration was highest in PM 2.5 (26.62 μg/g), followed by PM 10 (22.03 μg/g), and TSP (0.68 μg/g). Of the seven BTs, BT, 2-aminobenzothiazole (2-NH 2 -BT), 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), and 2-(methylthio)benzothiazole (MTBT) were distributed in PM 2.5 and 2-OH-BT was distributed in PM 2.5-10 of RD. Based on the mass fractions of BTs in the TSP, PM 10 , and PM 2.5 fractions of RD, human exposure via ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption were evaluated. Ingestion was found to be the main exposure pathway in humans, and daily intake of BTs in PM 2.5 was highest, followed by PM 10 and TSP, respectively. Children may suffer more health risks than adults when exposed to RD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Stability of the Spanish version of the five-item Francis Scale of Attitude toward Christianity.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Miranda-Tapia, Giskar Alonso; Cogollo, Zuleima; Herazo, Edwin; Campo-Arias, Adalberto

    2010-12-01

    The aim of this study was to establish test-retest reliability of a Spanish version of the Francis Scale of Attitude toward Christianity (Campo-Arias, Oviedo, & Cogollo, 2009) among adolescent students in Cartagena, Colombia. A group of ninth grade students from two public schools in Colombia (N = 157) completed the five-item scale. Cronbach's alphas were .74 and .76 in the first and second administrations, respectively. Both Pearson's rho and intra-class correlation coefficient were .69. A Spanish translation of the 5-item scale had consistent stability over four weeks.

  15. La Transición hacia el Trabajo Libre en Cuba, 1870 - 1886

    OpenAIRE

    Cowling, Camillia

    2014-01-01

    Traducción del inglés: Silvia Cogollos AmayaEste artículo examina el rol de las mujeres de color en la transición de Cuba al trabajo libre (1870-1886). Se encontró que una cantidad significativa de las peticiones de libertad y de mejoramiento de las condiciones de esclavitud fueron hechas por mujeres. Las mujeres tenían un papel específico que jugar dentro de la resistencia a la esclavitud. Esto se atribuye a varis factores; la responsabilidad de las mujeres en sus respectivas familias signif...

  16. Exploration of Volatile Organic Molecules for Detection of the Brown Tree Snake and Other Non-Indigenous Species

    National Research Council Canada - National Science Library

    Nielsen, Bruce

    2004-01-01

    ...." A reliable, portable, cost-effective device capable of detecting and locating the BTS in and around aircraft, ships, and cargo would greatly enhance the efforts to control the BTS and prevent...

  17. 76 FR 50539 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-08-15

    ... U.S.C., App. 2) to advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability..., DC 20590, [email protected] , or faxed to (202) 366-3640. BTS requests that written comments...

  18. Impact of building technology, state and community programs on United States employment and wage income

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Scott, M.J.; Hostick, D.J.; Elliott, D.B.; Schultz, R.W.

    1998-04-01

    As part of measuring the impact of government programs on improving the energy efficiency of the nation's building stock, the Department of Energy Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs (BTS) is interested in assessing the economic impacts of its portfolio of programs, specifically the potential impact on national employment and income. This assessment is being done for the first time in FY99 as a supplement to the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA--formerly, Quality Metrics) estimates of primary energy savings and environmental and direct financial benefits of the BTS programs. The programmatic needs of BTS suggest that a simple, flexible, user-friendly method is needed to derive national employment and income impacts of individual BTS programs. Therefore, BTS funded Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to develop a special-purpose version of the Impact Analysis for Planning (IMPLAN) national input-output model (Minnesota IMPLAN Group, Inc. 1997) specifically to estimate the employment and income effects of building energy technologies. The special-purpose version of the IMPLAN model used in this study is called ImBuild. Extensive documentation and a user's guide are provided in Scott et al. (1998). Compared with simple economic multiplier approaches, such as the published multipliers from the Department of Commerce Regional Input-Output Modeling System (RIMS 2), ImBuild allows for more complete and automated analysis of the economic impacts of energy efficiency investments in buildings. ImBuild is also easier to use than existing macroeconomic simulation models. In this report, the authors use the ImBuild model to calculate the impact of all 32 BTS programs reported in the BTS GPRA Metrics Estimates, FY99 Budget Request, December 19, 1997

  19. 76 FR 2748 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-01-14

    ... U.S.C., App. 2) to advise the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) on the quality, reliability...) 366-3640. BTS requests that written comments be received by February 9, 2011. Access to the DOT...

  20. Nonlinear dielectric properties and tunability of 0.9Pb(Mg1/3,Nb2/3)O3-0.1 PbTiO3 and Ba(Ti0.85,Sn0.15)O3 paraelectrics

    Science.gov (United States)

    Akdogan, E. K.; Hall, A.; Simon, W. K.; Safari, A.

    2007-01-01

    We investigate the nonlinear dielectric properties of 0.9Pb(Mg1/3,Nb2/3)O3•0.1PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) and Ba[Ti0.85,Sn0.15]O3 (BTS) paraelectrics experimentally and theoretically. We measure the nonlinear dielectric response in the parallel plate capacitor configuration, whereby we obtain the low frequency linear permittivity (ε33), and the higher order permittivities (ε3333,ε333333) at 298K as ε33PMN-PT=2.1×10-7 and ε33BTS=4.1×10-8F /m, ε3333PMN-PT=-4.9×10-20 and ε3333BTS=-7.3×10-21F3m /C2, and ε333333PMN-PT=7.6×10-33 and ε333333BTS=9.85×10-34F5m3/C4. By using a self-consistent thermodynamic theory in conjunction with the experimental data, we compute the E3 dependence of electrostatic free energy ΔG, the field-induced polarization P3, and the thermodynamic tunability ∂2P3/∂E32, and prove that electrostatic free energy has to be expanded at least up to the sixth order in the electric field to define the critical field ∣E3*∣ at which maximum tunability is attained. We also show that ∣E3*∣ is a function on ∣ε3333∣/ε333333 only. Consequently, we find ∣E3*∣PMN-PT=8.0×105V /m and ∣E3*∣BTS=8.6×105V/m. We compute the engineering tunabilities as ΓPMN-PT=65% and ΓBTS=55%, and then define a normalized tunability ξ to take into account the ∣E3*∣ parameter. Thereof, we determine ∣ξ ∣PMT-PT=8.1×10-5%/Vm-1 and ∣ξ∣BTS=6.4×10-5%/Vm-1. Our results reveal that ∣E3*∣BTS>∣E3*∣PMN-PT although ΓBTS<ΓPMN-PT, unequivocally showing the need for defining a critical field parameter in evaluating the nonlinear dielectric response and tunability, in particular, and in nonlinear dielectrics in general. The results also indicate that the nonlinear dielectric properties of PMN-PT are an order of magnitude higher than that of BTS, which we discuss in the context of structure-property relations of relaxors.

  1. Caprella watch. A new approach for monitoring butyltin residues in the ocean

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Takeuchi, I.; Miyazaki, N.; Takahashi, S.; Tanabe, S.

    1999-01-01

    The use of butyltins (BTs) in the marine environment has been found of great concern due to the deleterious effects on a wide range of aquatic organisms. Although Japan as well as in other developed countries in the early 1990s placed restrictions on the usage of tributyltin (TBT) as an antifouling agent for coastal boats and aquaculture beds, levels of BTs in the marine environment remain at high. Recently, we have conducted a comparative study on the levels of BTs in seawater and in various organisms in the marine ecosystem of Otsuchi Bay, northern Japan. The results show that relatively high concentrations of BTs occur in Caprella spp., one of the dominant secondary producers, inhabiting the algal communities and aquaculture beds, while concentrations in seawater were less than the detection limit

  2. Imposex levels and butyltin compounds (BTs) in Hexaplex trunculus (Linnaeus, 1758) from the northern Adriatic Sea (Italy): Ecological risk assessment before and after the ban.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cacciatore, Federica; Boscolo Brusà, Rossella; Noventa, Seta; Antonini, Camilla; Moschino, Vanessa; Formalewicz, Malgorzata; Gion, Claudia; Berto, Daniela; Gabellini, Massimo; Marin, Maria Gabriella

    2018-01-01

    The aim of this study was to compare imposex and butyltin compounds (BTs) data, collected before and after the organotin ban in 2008, in order to assess temporal and spatial variation of the phenomenon, the decline of BT contamination, and the effects on Hexaplex trunculus population in the coastal area of the northern Adriatic Sea, close to the Venice Lagoon. Both in marine and in lagoon sites, the results obtained in 2013-2015 showed a significant decline in the incidence of imposex in respect to those from the 2002 survey. In 2002, lagoon samples exhibited Relative Penis Size Index (RPSI) higher than marine samples, whereas no differences were detected in the recent survey, when all RPSI values were below 0.6%. Vas Deference Sequence Index (VDSI) mean values were over 4 before the ban introduction and below this value after that, indicating more critical conditions for gastropod population in 2002 rather than in 2013-15. Percentage of sterile females was up to 69% in 2002, whilst in the more recent survey no sterile female was found. Range of BT concentrations in gastropods decreased from 252 to 579 to 16-31ng∑BT/g d.w. BT body burdens varied according to a gender dependant pattern, with higher concentrations observed in females than in males. A first attempt to propose a classification based on BT impact on H. trunculus, according to the Water Framework Directive, revealed that most sites were in Bad ecological status before the ban and attained a Poor/Moderate status after that. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Bureau of Transportation Statistics Fellowship: Mid-Year Review

    Science.gov (United States)

    2018-01-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Fellowships are post-graduate research and developmental opportunities at the U.S. Department of Transportation in Washington, DC. The BTS Fellowship program is in its first rotation with five Fel...

  4. Significant accomplishments, 2009

    Science.gov (United States)

    2009-01-01

    BTS data is vital to improve transportation decision making, as well as evaluations of performance and what works in the nations transportation systems. As BTS continues its course of producing relevant, accurate, and timely transportation d...

  5. 75 FR 18254 - Advisory Council on Transportation Statistics; Notice of Meeting

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-04-09

    ... Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C., App. 2) to advise the Director of BTS on the quality... 20590, or faxed to (202) 366- 1270. BTS requests that written comments be received by April 30, 2010...

  6. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in the clinical management of acute COPD in 233 UK hospitals: results from the RCP/BTS 2003 National COPD Audit.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kaul, Sundeep; Pearson, Michael; Coutts, Ian; Lowe, Derek; Roberts, Michael

    2009-06-01

    Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is a clinically proven, cost-effective intervention for acidotic exacerbations of COPD that is recommended by UK national guidelines. This study examines the extent to which these recommendations are being followed in the UK. Between August and October 2003 a national audit of COPD exacerbations was conducted by the Royal College of Physicians and the British Thoracic Society. 233 (94%) UK hospitals submitted data for 7,529 prospectively recruited acute COPD admissions, documenting process of care and outcomes from a retrospective case note audit. They also completed a resources and organisation of care proforma. Nineteen hospitals (8%) reported they did not offer NIV. There was no access to NIV in 92 (39%) intensive care units in 88 (36%), high-dependency units or on general wards of 85 (34%) hospitals. In 74 (30%) NIV was available on all 3 sites. A low pH (hospital mortality (26% v 14%) and at 90 days (37% v 24%) and longer hospital stays (median 9 v 7 days) than those not receiving NIV. Hospitals with least usage of NIV had similar mortality rates to those using NIV more often. A comprehensive NIV service is not available in many hospitals admitting patients with acute respiratory failure secondary to COPD. Access to acute NIV is inadequate and does not conform with NICE and BTS guidelines. These observational audit data do not demonstrate benefits of NIV on survival when compared to conventional management, contrary to results from randomised trials. Reasons for this are unclear but unmeasured confounding factors and poor patient selection for NIV are likely explanations.

  7. Global pollution monitoring of butyltin compounds using skipjack tuna as a bioindicator

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ueno, D.; Inoue, S.; Takahashi, S.; Ikeda, K.; Tanaka, H.; Subramanian, A.N.; Fillmann, G.; Lam, P.K.S.; Zheng, J.; Muchtar, M.; Prudente, M.; Chung, K.; Tanabe, S.

    2004-01-01

    Global pollution monitoring of butyltin in offshore water and open sea were conducted using skipjack tuna as a bioindicator. - Butyltin compounds (BTs) including mono- (MBT), di- (DBT), tri-butyltin (TBT) and total tin (ΣSn), were determined in the liver of skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) collected from Asian offshore waters (off-Japan, the Japan Sea, off-Taiwan, the East China Sea, the South China Sea, off-Philippines, off-Indonesia, the Bay of Bengal), off-Seychelles, off-Brazil and open seas (the North Pacific). BTs were detected in all the skipjack tuna collected, suggesting widespread contamination of BTs even in offshore waters and open seas on a global scale. Considering specific accumulation, Sex-, body length- differences and migration of skipjack tuna did not seem to affect BT concentrations, indicating rapid reflection of the pollution levels in seawater where and when they were collected. Skipjack tuna is a suitable bioindicator for monitoring the global distribution of BTs in offshore waters and open seas. High concentrations of BTs were observed in skipjack tuna from offshore waters around Japan, a highly developed and industrialized region (up to 400 ng/g wet weight). Moreover skipjack tuna collected from offshore waters around Asian developing countries also revealed the levels comparable to those in Japan (up to 270 ng/g wet weight) which may be due to the recent improvement in economic status in Asian developing countries. High percentages (almost 90%) of BTs in total tin (ΣSn: sum of inorganic tin+organic tin) were found in the liver of skipjack tuna from offshore waters around Asian developing countries. This finding suggests that the anthropogenic BTs represent the major source of Sn accumulation in skipjack tuna from these regions

  8. Global pollution monitoring of butyltin compounds using skipjack tuna as a bioindicator

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ueno, D.; Inoue, S.; Takahashi, S.; Ikeda, K.; Tanaka, H.; Subramanian, A.N.; Fillmann, G.; Lam, P.K.S.; Zheng, J.; Muchtar, M.; Prudente, M.; Chung, K.; Tanabe, S

    2004-01-01

    Global pollution monitoring of butyltin in offshore water and open sea were conducted using skipjack tuna as a bioindicator. - Butyltin compounds (BTs) including mono- (MBT), di- (DBT), tri-butyltin (TBT) and total tin ({sigma}Sn), were determined in the liver of skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) collected from Asian offshore waters (off-Japan, the Japan Sea, off-Taiwan, the East China Sea, the South China Sea, off-Philippines, off-Indonesia, the Bay of Bengal), off-Seychelles, off-Brazil and open seas (the North Pacific). BTs were detected in all the skipjack tuna collected, suggesting widespread contamination of BTs even in offshore waters and open seas on a global scale. Considering specific accumulation, Sex-, body length- differences and migration of skipjack tuna did not seem to affect BT concentrations, indicating rapid reflection of the pollution levels in seawater where and when they were collected. Skipjack tuna is a suitable bioindicator for monitoring the global distribution of BTs in offshore waters and open seas. High concentrations of BTs were observed in skipjack tuna from offshore waters around Japan, a highly developed and industrialized region (up to 400 ng/g wet weight). Moreover skipjack tuna collected from offshore waters around Asian developing countries also revealed the levels comparable to those in Japan (up to 270 ng/g wet weight) which may be due to the recent improvement in economic status in Asian developing countries. High percentages (almost 90%) of BTs in total tin ({sigma}Sn: sum of inorganic tin+organic tin) were found in the liver of skipjack tuna from offshore waters around Asian developing countries. This finding suggests that the anthropogenic BTs represent the major source of Sn accumulation in skipjack tuna from these regions.

  9. Fermentation Characteristics, Tannin Contents and Ruminal Degradation of Green Tea and Black Tea By-products Ensiled at Different Temperatures

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Makoto Kondo

    2014-07-01

    Full Text Available Green and black tea by-products, obtained from ready-made tea industry, were ensiled at 10°C, 20°C, and 30°C. Green tea by-product silage (GTS and black tea by-product silage (BTS were opened at 5, 10, 45 days after ensiling. Fermentation characteristics and nutrient composition, including tannins, were monitored and the silages on day 45 were subjected to in vitro ruminal fermentation to assess anti-nutritive effects of tannins using polyethylene glycol (PEG as a tannin-binding agent. Results showed that the GTS and BTS silages were stable and fermented slightly when ensiled at 10°C. The GTS stored at 20°C and 30°C showed rapid pH decline and high acetic acid concentration. The BTS was fermented gradually with moderate change of pH and acid concentration. Acetic acid was the main acid product of fermentation in both GTS and BTS. The contents of total extractable phenolics and total extractable tannins in both silages were unaffected by storage temperatures, but condensed tannins in GTS were less when stored at high temperature. The GTS showed no PEG response on in vitro gas production, and revealed only a small increase by PEG on NH3-N concentration. Storage temperature of GTS did not affect the extent of PEG response to both gas production and NH3-N concentration. On the other hand, addition of PEG on BTS markedly increased both the gas production and NH3-N concentration at any ensiled temperature. It can be concluded that tannins in both GTS and BTS suppressed rumen fermentation, and tannins in GTS did more weakly than that in BTS. Ensiling temperature for both tea by-products did not affect the tannin’s activity in the rumen.

  10. Inhibitory effect of bofutsushosan (fang feng tong sheng san) on glucose transporter 5 function in vitro.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gao, Shengli; Satsu, Hideo; Makino, Toshiaki

    2018-03-01

    Bofutsushosan (BTS; fang feng tong sheng san in Chinese) is a formula in traditional Japanese Kampo medicine and Chinese medicine comprising eighteen crude drugs, and is used to treat obesity and metabolic syndrome. Fructose is contained in refreshing beverages as high-fructose corn syrup, and is associated with obesity. Fructose is absorbed via glucose transporter 5 (GLUT5) in the intestine. Therefore, the inhibition of GLUT5 is considered to be a target of obesity drugs. We evaluated the inhibitory effects of BTS extract and its constituents on fructose uptake using Chinese hamster ovary K1 cells, i.e., cells stably expressing GLUT5. Boiled water extract of BTS significantly suppressed GLUT5 function in a concentration-dependent manner without cytotoxicities. Among 18 components of BTS, the boiled water extracts of the rhizome of Zingiber officinale, the root and rhizome of Saposhnikovia divaricata, and the root of Platycodon grandiflorum exhibited significant inhibitory effects on fructose uptake with IC 50 values of 314, 119 and 475 µg/ml, respectively. Among the constituents of the rhizome of Z. officinale extract, 6-gingerol significantly inhibited GLUT5 with an IC 50 value of 39 µM, while 6-shogaol exhibited a significant but weak inhibition on GLUT5 at 100 µM. One of the mechanisms of action of BTS may be the inhibition of fructose absorption in the intestine, and one of the active components of BTS is the rhizome of Z. officinale and 6-gingerol.

  11. Optimasi Peletakan Base Transceiver Station Di Kabupaten Mojokerto Menggunakan Algoritma Differential Evolution

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ahadi Arif Nugraha

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Salah satu aspek penting dalam perencanaan infrastruktur jaringan seluler adalah Base Transceiver Station (BTS yang merupakan sebuah pemancar dan penerima sinyal telephone seluler. Di satu sisi, peningkatan jumlah menara memang akan mendukung tercapainya pemenuhan kebutuhan masyarakat terhadap layanan telekomunikasi. Namun di sisi lain, penempatan menara yang  tanpa perencanaan serta koordinasi yang tepat akan menimbulkan jumlah menara yang berlebih sehingga dapat mengganggu estetika lingkungan, tata ruang suatu wilayah, dan radiasi gelombang radio yang tidak terkontrol sehingga sangat mengganggu. Berdasarkan permasalahan diatas, maka dapat diselesaikan dengan cara menyusun suatu master plan yang lengkap dan rinci tentang penataan lokasi menara di Kabupaten Mojokerto untuk lima tahun mendatang. Penataan lokasi menara dilakukan dengan menggunakan algoritma Differential Evolution (DE untuk menemukan solusi penataan menara yang baik berdasarkan luas cakupan area sel yang dihasilkan, kemudian menggunakan software MapInfo sebagai media visualisasi peta lokasi penempatan menara telekomunikasi. Dalam perancangan menara BTS tahun 2019, Kabupaten Mojokerto membutuhkan 106 menara BTS 2G dan 36 menara BTS 3G. Penempatan menara BTS 2G dan 3G menggunakan algoritma differential evolution mampu mengoptimalkan 2,94% dari luas wilayah Kabupaten Mojokerto

  12. Weak antilocalization and universal conductance fluctuations in bismuth telluro-sulfide topological insulators

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Trivedi, Tanuj, E-mail: tanuj@utexas.edu; Sonde, Sushant; Movva, Hema C. P.; Banerjee, Sanjay K., E-mail: banerjee@ece.utexas.edu [Microelectronics Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78758 (United States)

    2016-02-07

    We report on van der Waals epitaxial growth, materials characterization, and magnetotransport experiments in crystalline nanosheets of Bismuth Telluro-Sulfide (BTS). Highly layered, good-quality crystalline nanosheets of BTS are obtained on SiO{sub 2} and muscovite mica. Weak-antilocalization (WAL), electron-electron interaction-driven insulating ground state and universal conductance fluctuations are observed in magnetotransport experiments on BTS devices. Temperature, thickness, and magnetic field dependence of the transport data indicate the presence of two-dimensional surface states along with bulk conduction, in agreement with theoretical models. An extended-WAL model is proposed and utilized in conjunction with a two-channel conduction model to analyze the data, revealing a surface component and evidence of multiple conducting channels. A facile growth method and detailed magnetotransport results indicating BTS as an alternative topological insulator material system are presented.

  13. The Prophylactic Effect of Vitamin C on Oxidative Stress Indexes Following Exposure to Radio Frequency Wave Generated by a BTS Antenna Model in Rat Liver and Kidney

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gholamali Jelodar

    2014-02-01

    Full Text Available Background: Radio frequency wave (RFW generated by base transceiver station (BTS has been reported to make deleterious effects on liver and kidney, possibly through oxidative stress. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of radiofrequency wave (RFW-induced oxidative stress in the liver and kidney and the prophylactic effect of vitamin C on this organs by measuring the antioxidant enzymes activity including: glutathione peroxidase (GPx, superoxide dismutase (SOD and catalase (CAT, and malondialdehyde (MDA. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, thirty-two adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups and treated daily for 45 days as follows: control, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid 200 mg/kg of body weight/day by gavage, test (exposed to 900MHz RFW and the treated group (received vitamin C in addition to exposure to RFW. At the end of the experiment all animals were sacrificed and their liver and kidney were removed and were used for measurement of antioxidant enzymes and MDA activity. Results: The results indicate that exposure to RFW in the test group decreased antioxidant enzymes activity and increased MDA compared with the control groups (p<0.05. In the treated group vitamin C improved antioxidant enzymes activity and reduced MDA compared to the test group (p<0.05. Conclusion: It can be concluded that RFW causes oxidative stress in liver and kidney, and vitamin C improves the antioxidant enzymes activity and decreases MDA.

  14. Fungal diversity in oil palm leaves showing symptoms of Fatal Yellowing disease.

    Science.gov (United States)

    de Assis Costa, Ohana Yonara; Tupinambá, Daiva Domenech; Bergmann, Jessica Carvalho; Barreto, Cristine Chaves; Quirino, Betania Ferraz

    2018-01-01

    Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is an excellent source of vegetable oil for biodiesel production; however, there are still some limitations for its cultivation in Brazil such as Fatal Yellowing (FY) disease. FY has been studied for many years, but its causal agent has never been determined. In Colombia and nearby countries, it was reported that the causal agent of Fatal Yellowing (Pudrición del Cogollo) is the oomycete Phytophthora palmivora, however, several authors claim that Fatal Yellowing and Pudrición del Cogollo (PC) are different diseases. The major aims of this work were to test, using molecular biology tools, Brazilian oil palm trees for the co-occurrence of the oomycete Phytophthora and FY symptoms, and to characterize the fungal diversity in FY diseased and healthy leaves by next generation sequencing. Investigation with specific primers for the genus Phytophthora showed amplification in only one of the samples. Analysis of the fungal ITS region demonstrated that, at the genus level, different groups predominated in all symptomatic samples, while Pyrenochaetopsis and unclassified fungi predominated in all asymptomatic samples. Our results show that fungal communities were not the same between samples at the same stage of the disease or among all the symptomatic samples. This is the first study that describes the evolution of the microbial community in the course of plant disease and also the first work to use high throughput next generation sequencing to evaluate the fungal community associated with leaves of oil palm trees with and without symptoms of FY.

  15. EVALUACIÓN DE MÉTODOS DE PROPAGACIÓN DE Alocasia macrorrhiza EN EL MUNICIPIO DE SAN PABLO, NARIÑO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    DIEGO BOLAÑOS-PORTILLA

    Full Text Available Este estudio se realizó en el municipio de San Pablo (Nariño con el objeto de evaluar métodos de propagación de (Alocasia macrorrhiza y determinar el mejor para la obtención de material de siembra. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completos al azar con 4 tratamientos y 4 repeticiones. Los tratamientos fueron: T1- discos del tallo, T2- yemas del tallo, T3- hijuelos y T4 cogollos. El material de propagación fue obtenido en el vivero municipal de San Pablo (Nariño, donde se encontraba un área aproximada de 400 m2 con bore, cuyo estado sanitario y productivo era aceptable. El análisis de varianza detecto diferencias significativas entre tratamientos para la variable altura de planta, mientras que para hojas/planta no hubo diferencias entre tratamiento. La prueba de Duncan permitió determinar que el método de propagación de cogollos fue el de mejor comportamiento logrando un promedio de 125,8 cm/planta. Al finalizar el ensayo, los métodos de discos del tallo e hijuelos fueron los que menor crecimiento presentaron con un promedio de 96,9 y 105,4 cm/planta, respectivamente. El número de hojas por planta es independiente del método de propagación utilizado, sin importar cual método se utilice la producción de biomasa foliar será la misma.

  16. Fungal diversity in oil palm leaves showing symptoms of Fatal Yellowing disease.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ohana Yonara de Assis Costa

    Full Text Available Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq. is an excellent source of vegetable oil for biodiesel production; however, there are still some limitations for its cultivation in Brazil such as Fatal Yellowing (FY disease. FY has been studied for many years, but its causal agent has never been determined. In Colombia and nearby countries, it was reported that the causal agent of Fatal Yellowing (Pudrición del Cogollo is the oomycete Phytophthora palmivora, however, several authors claim that Fatal Yellowing and Pudrición del Cogollo (PC are different diseases. The major aims of this work were to test, using molecular biology tools, Brazilian oil palm trees for the co-occurrence of the oomycete Phytophthora and FY symptoms, and to characterize the fungal diversity in FY diseased and healthy leaves by next generation sequencing. Investigation with specific primers for the genus Phytophthora showed amplification in only one of the samples. Analysis of the fungal ITS region demonstrated that, at the genus level, different groups predominated in all symptomatic samples, while Pyrenochaetopsis and unclassified fungi predominated in all asymptomatic samples. Our results show that fungal communities were not the same between samples at the same stage of the disease or among all the symptomatic samples. This is the first study that describes the evolution of the microbial community in the course of plant disease and also the first work to use high throughput next generation sequencing to evaluate the fungal community associated with leaves of oil palm trees with and without symptoms of FY.

  17. Bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy for pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis impairs adrenomedullary but not noradrenergic sympathetic function.

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Buscher, H.C.J.L.; Lenders, J.W.M.; Wilder-Smith, O.H.G.; Sweep, C.G.J.; Goor, H. van

    2012-01-01

    BACKGROUND: Bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy (BTS) is a well-known technique to alleviate intractable pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis. BTS not only disrupts afferent fibers from the pancreas that mediate pain but also postganglionic sympathetic fibers, which originate in segments

  18. Influencing the psychological well-being of beginning teachers across three years of teaching : Self-efficacy, stress causes, job tension and job discontent

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Helms-Lorenz, Michelle; Maulana, Ridwan

    2016-01-01

    In this study, the path of influence of support programmes for beginning teachers (BTs) is examined. Longitudinal relationships between self-efficacy and stress causes experienced by BTs and their job tension and discontent are investigated. Differential effects are explored in the relationships

  19. SISTEM PAKAR TROUBLESHOOTING BASE TRANSCEIVER STATION UNTUK EFISIENSI KINERJA TEKNISI (STUDI KASUS : PT.KMS TELECOM PEKANBARU

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yogi Yunefri

    2016-02-01

    Full Text Available AbstrakBase Transceiver Station (BTS terdiri dari modul-modul yang memiliki indikator alarm untuk mengindikasikan adanya error pada komponen dalam sistemnya. Kurangnya tenaga ahli alarm BTS, menyebabkan para operator harus terlebih dahulu membuka buletin atau referensi lainnya untuk mengetahui penanganan dari tiap alarm sehingga tidak terjadi kesalahan fatal. Keterbatasan itulah yang menyebabkan PT.KMS Pekanbaru cukup kesulitan untuk melakukan troubleshooting dengan cepat.Kata Kunci : Base Transceiver Station, expert systems, TelecomunicationAbstractBase Transceiver Station ( BTS consists From the module - The module has an alarm indicator to indicate an error review their hearts IN Component system. Lack Expert BTS alarm , the operator causes the first Must Opens bulletin Other references to review the handling From each alarm know that NOT fatal error occurred.The limitations that cause PT.KMS Pekanbaru Quite difficult to review conduct tips Quick WITH .Keywords: Base Transceiver Station, expert systems, Telecomunication

  20. First year effects of induction arrangements on beginning teachers' psychological processes

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Helms-Lorenz, Michelle; Slof, Bert; van de Grift, Wim

    2013-01-01

    This study examined the (1) effects of a supportive program (i.e., induction arrangement) on beginning teachers' (BTs') psychological processes after a period of 1 year and (2) psychological paths of influence of the arrangement. Participants (56 Dutch secondary schools with 143 BTs) were randomly

  1. Study of variations of radiofrequency power density from mobile phone base stations with distance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ayinmode, B. O.; Farai, I. P.

    2013-01-01

    The variations of radiofrequency (RF) radiation power density with distance around some mobile phone base stations (BTSs), in ten randomly selected locations in Ibadan, western Nigeria, were studied. Measurements were made with a calibrated hand-held spectrum analyser. The maximum Global System of Mobile (GSM) communication 1800 signal power density was 323.91 μW m -2 at 250 m radius of a BTS and that of GSM 900 was 1119.00 μW m -2 at 200 m radius of another BTS. The estimated total maximum power density was 2972.00 μW m -2 at 50 m radius of a different BTS. This study shows that the maximum carrier signal power density and the total maximum power density from a BTS may be observed averagely at 200 and 50 m of its radius, respectively. The result of this study demonstrates that exposure of people to RF radiation from phone BTSs in Ibadan city is far less than the recommended limits by International scientific bodies. (authors)

  2. Carbon/ternary alloy/carbon optical stack on mylar as an optical data storage medium to potentially replace magnetic tape.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Hao; Lunt, Barry M; Gates, Richard J; Asplund, Matthew C; Shutthanandan, V; Davis, Robert C; Linford, Matthew R

    2013-09-11

    A novel write-once-read-many (WORM) optical stack on Mylar tape is proposed as a replacement for magnetic tape for archival data storage. This optical tape contains a cosputtered bismuth-tellurium-selenium (BTS) alloy as the write layer sandwiched between thin, protective films of reactively sputtered carbon. The composition and thickness of the BTS layer were confirmed by Rutherford Backscattering (RBS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), respectively. The C/BTS/C stack on Mylar was written to/marked by 532 nm laser pulses. Under the same conditions, control Mylar films without the optical stack were unaffected. Marks, which showed craters/movement of the write material, were characterized by optical microscopy and AFM. The threshold laser powers for making marks on C/BTS/C stacks with different thicknesses were explored. Higher quality marks were made with a 60× objective compared to a 40× objective in our marking apparatus. The laser writing process was simulated with COMSOL.

  3. Managing BTSs to Solve Handover Problem in Mobile Network

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wael Etaiwi

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Handover is a key solution that improves the telecommunication services using GSM by assure the continual service delivery between two mobiles regardless of location's changes of the sender or receiver, and now GSM technology becomes applicable all over the world and the customers become more satisfied to the dealer's services delivery, But Handover suffers from a major problem refers to the limitation of hardware capacity of the BTS (Base Transfer Station. This approach consists of three schemes, the first one based on reserve an extra ports for handover purposes by implementing a software solution that control BTS ports. The second alternative scheme based on channel exchange between adjacent BTSs by shifting a chosen allocated signal to another adjacent free BTS and then allocating the new signal to the new free port. The third schema depends on carrying the Handover problem to another BTS to solve it if it didn't solved in the second schema.

  4. Carbon/Ternary Alloy/Carbon Optical Stack on Mylar as an Optical Data Storage Medium to Potentially Replace Magnetic Tape

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Hao; Lunt, Barry M.; Gates, Richard J.; Asplund, Matthew C.; Shutthanandan, V.; Davis, Robert C.; Linford, Matthew R.

    2013-09-11

    A novel write-once-read-many (WORM) optical stack on Mylar tape is proposed as a replacement for magnetic tape for archival data storage. This optical tape contains a cosputtered bismuth–tellurium–selenium (BTS) alloy as the write layer sandwiched between thin, protective films of reactively sputtered carbon. The composition and thickness of the BTS layer were confirmed by Rutherford Backscattering (RBS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), respectively. The C/BTS/C stack on Mylar was written to/marked by 532 nm laser pulses. Under the same conditions, control Mylar films without the optical stack were unaffected. Marks, which showed craters/movement of the write material, were characterized by optical microscopy and AFM. The threshold laser powers for making marks on C/BTS/C stacks with different thicknesses were explored. Higher quality marks were made with a 60× objective compared to a 40× objective in our marking apparatus. Finally, the laser writing process was simulated with COMSOL.

  5. Utilization Management in the Blood Transfusion Service

    Science.gov (United States)

    Peña, Jeremy Ryan Andrew; Dzik, Walter “Sunny”

    2015-01-01

    The scope of activity of the Blood Transfusion Service (BTS) makes it unique among the clinical laboratories. The combination of therapeutic and diagnostic roles necessitates a multi-faceted approach to utilization management in the BTS. We present our experience in utilization management in large academic medical center. PMID:24080431

  6. Collecting marine litter during regular fish surveys

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Sluis, van der M.T.; Hal, van R.

    2014-01-01

    This report presents the results of the marine litter monitoring on the IBTS survey of 2014 and the BTS survey of 2013. Since 2013 marine litter is collected during the International Bottom Trawl Survey (IBTS) and Dutch Beam Trawl Survey (BTS) following a protocol developed by ICES. The composition

  7. Structure and stability of BaTiSi₂O₇.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Viani, Alberto; Palermo, Andrea; Zanardi, Stefano; Demitri, Nicola; Petrícek, Václav; Varini, Federico; Belluso, Elena; Ståhl, Kenny; Gualtieri, Alessandro Francesco

    2015-04-01

    Due to their optical, photo-luminescence (PL), and afterglow properties, barium titanosilicates are compounds of great interest for functional materials and light-emitting devices. Among them, BaTiSi2O7 (BTS2) is certainly one of the most intriguing; it displays peculiar properties (e.g. PL orange emission) whose exhaustive explanation has been hampered to date by the lack of a structure model. In this work, BTS2 and the related compound BaTiSi4O11 (BTS4) were synthesized through conventional solid-state reaction methods. BTS2 invariably shows complex twinning patterns. Thus, its structure solution and Rietveld structure refinement were attempted using synchrotron powder diffraction. BTS2 was found to be an intergrowth of monoclinic and triclinic crystals. The monoclinic phase has the space group P21/n and unit cell a = 7.9836 (3), b = 10.0084 (4), c = 7.4795 (3) Å, and β = 100.321 (3)°, whereas the triclinic phase has the space group P\\bar 1 and unit cell a = 7.99385 (4), b = 10.01017 (5), c = 7.47514 (3) Å, α = 90.084 (8), β = 100.368 (8) and γ = 89.937 (9)°. These lattices can be seen as a distortion of that of tetragonal synthetic β-BaVSi2O7 with Ti in place of V. The structure models obtained from this study confirm the presence of fivefold coordinated Ti atoms in a distorted pyramidal configuration. The proposed solution supports existing theories for the explanation of the PL orange colour in BTS2.

  8. Characterization of Paroxysmal Gluten‐Sensitive Dyskinesia in Border Terriers Using Serological Markers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Garden, O.A.; Hadjivassiliou, M.; Sanders, D.S.; Powell, R.; Garosi, L.

    2018-01-01

    Background Paroxysmal gluten‐sensitive dyskinesia (PGSD) in border terriers (BTs) results from an immunologic response directed against transglutaminase (TG)2 and gliadin. Recent evidence suggests that PGSD is only one aspect of a range of possible manifestations of gluten sensitivity in the breed. Hypothesis/Objectives Gluten sensitivity in BTs is a heterogeneous disease process with a diverse clinical spectrum; to characterize the phenotype of PGSD using TG2 and gliadin autoantibodies as diagnostic markers. Animals One hundred twenty‐eight client‐owned BTs with various disorders. Methods Prospective study. BTs with paroxysmal episodes and a normal interictal examination were phenotyped using footage of a representative episode and assigned to 3 groups: idiopathic epilepsy (IE), paroxysmal dyskinesia (PD), or other. Owners of each dog completed a questionnaire to obtain information regarding clinical signs. Healthy BTs formed a control group. Serum antibodies against TG2 and AGA were measured in all dogs. Results One hundred twenty‐eight BTs were enrolled; 45 with PD, 28 with IE, 35 with other conditions, and 20 controls. Three overlapping phenotypes were identified; PD, signs suggestive of gastrointestinal disease, and dermatopathy. AGA‐IgG concentrations were increased in PD, compared with IE (P = 0.012), controls (P < 0.0001) and other (P = 0.018) conditions. Anti‐canine TG2‐IgA concentrations were increased in PD, compared with IE (P < 0.0001), controls (P < 0.0001) and other (P = 0.012) conditions. Serological markers are highly specific for PGSD but lack sensitivity. Conclusions PGSD appears part of a syndrome of gluten intolerance consisting of episodes of transient dyskinesia, signs suggestive of gastrointestinal disease, and dermatological hypersensitivity. PMID:29424456

  9. Trapping for invasive crayfish: comparisons of efficacy and selectivity of baited traps versus novel artificial refuge traps

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Green Nicky

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Non-native crayfish can dominate the invertebrate biomass of invaded freshwaters, with their high ecological impacts resulting in their populations being controlled by numerous methods, especially trapping. Although baited funnel traps (BTs are commonly used, they tend to be selective in mainly catching large-bodied males. Here, the efficacy and selectivity of BTs were tested against an alternative trapping method based on artificial refuges (ARTs that comprised of a metal base with several tubes (refuges attached. The target species was signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus in an upland river in southwest England. Trapping was completed in April to October over two consecutive years. In total, 5897 crayfish were captured, with 87% captured in ARTs. Comparison of the catch per unit effort (CPUE between the trapping methods in the same 24 hour periods revealed significantly higher CPUE in ARTs than of BTs. ARTs fished for 6 consecutive days had higher catches than both methods over 24 hours. Whilst catches in BTs were significantly dominated by males (1.49M:1F, the sex ratio of catches in ARTs was 0.99M:1F. The mean carapace length of crayfish was also significantly larger in BTs (43.2 ± 0.6 mm than in ARTs (33.6 ± 0.2 mm. Thus, ARTs had higher CPUE over 24 hour and 6 day periods versus BTs and also captured a greater proportion of smaller and female individuals. These results indicate that when trapping methods are deployed for managing invasions, the use of ARTs removes substantial numbers of crayfish of both sexes and of varying body sizes.

  10. Building GSM network in extreme conditions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mikulec, M.; Voznak, M.; Fajkus, M.; Partila, P.; Tovarek, J.; Chmelikova, Z.

    2015-05-01

    The paper is focused on the building ad-hoc GSM network based on open source software and low-cost hardware. The created Base Transmission Station can be deployed and put into operation in a few minutes in a required area to ensure private communication between connected GSM mobile terminals. The convergence between BTS station and the other networks is possible through IP network. The paper tries to define connection parameters to provide sufficient quality of voice service between the GSM network and IP Multimedia Subsystem. The paper brings practical results of voice call quality measurement between users inside BTS station mobile network and users inside IP Multimedia Subsystem network. The calls are simulated by low-cost embedded solution for speech quality measurement in GSM network. This tool is under development of our laboratory and allows automatic speech quality measurement of any GSM or UMTS mobile network. The Perceptual Evaluation of Speech Quality method is used to get final comparable results. The communication between BTS station and connected networks has to be secured against the interception from the third party. The influence of the securing method for quality of service is presented in detail. Paper, apart from the quality of service measurement section, describes technical requirements for successful interconnection between BTS and IMS networks. The authentication, authorization and accounting methods in roaming between BTS and IMS system are presented too.

  11. The fate of benzotriazole pollutants in an urban oxic intergranular aquifer.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Trček, Branka; Žigon, Dušan; Zidar, Vlasta Kramarič; Auersperger, Primož

    2017-12-26

    Benzotriazoles (BTs) are considered as Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs); however, information about their fate in aquifers continues to be absent. This was the focus of the present study, which provides the first evidence for relevant BTs' degradation products (BTTPs) in urban aquifers that may impact the groundwater quality. The mechanisms and biotransformation pathways of BTs were investigated in an oxic intergranular medium. The BTs and BTTPs were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analytical techniques based on reference standards and internal materials. The major transformation products were identified as 2-methyl-2H-benzotriazole (2-MeBT) for the degradation of 1H-benzotriazole (BT) and as 2,4-dimethyl-2H-benzotriazole (2,4-dMeBT) and 1,4-dimethyl-1H-benzotriazole (1,4-dMeBT) for the degradation of 4-methyl-1H-benzotriazole (4-MeBT), and most probably also 5-methyl-1H-benzotriazole (5-MeBT). The leakage of wastewater pipelines is most probably the source of BTs. Sediments with a lower hydraulic conductivity give rise to perched aquifer conditions that lead to the temporal storage of leaking effluents and presumably the majority of BTs' transformation processes via methylation and tautomerization. The most stable BTTPs entered the saturated zone of the aquifer, where they prevailed. Concentrations up to 1500 ng L -1 were measured for the 2,4-dMeBT, which suggest a contamination risk for groundwater that is or may be used as a source for drinking water in the case of a constant input of pollutant loads from sewer systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. 2016 Billion-ton report: Advancing domestic resources for a thriving bioeconomy, Volume 1: Economic availability of feedstock

    Science.gov (United States)

    M.H. Langholtz; B.J. Stokes; L.M. Eaton

    2016-01-01

    This product builds on previous efforts, namely the 2005 Billion-Ton Study (BTS) and the 2011 U.S. Billion-Ton Update (BT2).With each report, greater perspective is gained on the potential of biomass resources to contribute to a national energy strategy. Similarly, each successive report introduces new questions regarding commercialization challenges. BTS quantified...

  13. An Operational Summary of the BERMEX81-V3 Experiment: 17-19 September 1981.

    Science.gov (United States)

    1982-07-01

    1979 and 1980) were to utilize the Versatile Experimental Kevlar Array (VEKA-3B), a two-hydrophone, vertically moored system with an RF telemetry link to...the nose and tail sections of a MK35 tor- pedo . Operational parameters of the BTS 9029 are presented in Table C-3. The BTS 9029 system was fully

  14. Nanoindentation Analysis of Elastic/Mechanical Behaviour of Surface of Transparent Glass Ceramics with Fresnoite Ba2TiSi2O8 Nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shinozaki, K; Honma, T; Komatsu, T

    2011-01-01

    Transparent glass-ceramics containing Ba 2 TiSi 2 O 8 (BTS) nanocrystals with sizes of ∼200 nm were obtained by heat treatment of 40BaO-20TiO 2 -40SiO 2 glass. Their elastic/mechanical properties were evaluated using the cube-resonance method and the Berkovich nanoindentation technique under standard and 'continuous stiffness measurement' (CSM) modes, and the relation between these properties and the volume fraction (f) of BTS nanocrystals was clarified. The glass-ceramics were obtained by 1-h heat treatments at 760-790 deg. C of the precursor glass, resulting in the formation of BTS nanocrystals with f=2.7-54.5%, with a corresponding Young's modulus of 84-107 GPa. The CSM nanoindentation measurements gave an indentation modulus of 90 GPa for the glass and 110 GPa for the glass-ceramic heat-treated at 790 deg. C, for indentation depths of 200-1500 nm. The results suggest that the BTS nanocrystals confer a high resistance to deformation during indenter loading.

  15. Use of Bacillus thuringiensis supernatant from a fermentation process to improve bioremediation of chlorpyrifos in contaminated soils.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Aceves-Diez, Angel E; Estrada-Castañeda, Kelly J; Castañeda-Sandoval, Laura M

    2015-07-01

    The aim of this research was to investigate the potential of a nutrient-rich organic waste, namely the cell-free supernatant of Bacillus thuringiensis (BtS) gathered from fermentation, as a biostimulating agent to improve and sustain microbial populations and their enzymatic activities, thereby assisting in the bioremediation of chlorpyrifos-contaminated soil at a high dose (70 mg kg(-1)). Experiments were performed for up to 80 d. Chlorpyrifos degradation and its major metabolic product, 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP), were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); total microbial populations were enumerated by direct counts in specific medium; and fluorescein diacetate (FDA) hydrolysis was measured as an index of soil microbial activity. Throughout the experiment, there was higher chlorpyrifos degradation in soil supplemented with BtS (83.1%) as compared to non-supplemented soil. TCP formation and degradation occurred in all soils, but the greatest degradation (30.34%) was observed in soil supplemented with BtS. The total microbial populations were significantly improved by supplementation with BtS. The application of chlorpyrifos to soil inhibited the enzymatic activity; however, this negative effect was counteracted by BtS, inducing an increase of approximately 16% in FDA hydrolysis. These results demonstrate the potential of B. thuringiensis supernatant as a suitable biostimulation agent for enhancing chlorpyrifos and TCP biodegradation in chlorpyrifos-contaminated soils. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Temporary placement of metallic stent could lead to long-term benefits for benign tracheobronchial stenosis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhou, Guo-Wu; Huang, Hai-Dong; Sun, Qin-Ying; Xiong, Ye; Li, Qiang; Dong, Yu-Chao; Zhang, Wei

    2015-12-01

    The permanent placement of metallic stent for benign tracheobronchial stenosis (BTS) was controversial. This study was conducted to evaluate the long-term outcomes of temporary placement of metallic stent for BTS. The BTS patients who received temporary placement of retrievable self-expanded metallic stents were included between 2008 and 2011. Pre-stenting and follow-up respiratory status was analyzed. And symptom recurrence-free survival (SRFS) was assessed. A total of 49 stents were successfully temporarily placed in 40 consecutive BTS patients whose etiologies included endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) (n=22), post-tracheostomy stenosis (n=10), post-intubation stenosis (n=6) and post radiotherapy stricture (n=2). All stents were removed integrally after a median 18 days' stenting period, without major complications. During the median 27 months follow-up period after stent removal, a total of 22 patients were free of recurrence. And the overall 3-year SRFS rate was 52.0%. According to the etiology, the 3-year SRFS rates were 59.1% and 42.9% in the patients with EBTB and non-EBTB, respectively. Compared with pre-stenting, the follow-up internal diameter of stricture, Hugh-Jones scale, 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%) were significantly improved. Multivariate analysis suggested that granulation tissue growth and tracheobronchial malacia might be independent factors of poor prognosis. Temporary placement of retrievable metallic stent may be an alternative treatment for BTS patients.

  17. Savannah River Site Bagless Transfer Technology Applied at Hanford

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wong, J.W.

    2001-01-01

    A ''bagless transfer'' process was developed at the Savannah River Site (SRS) to remove radioactive materials from glovebox enclosures for long-term storage in conformance with DOE Standard 3013. This process, unlike the more conventional ''bag-out'' process, produces an all-metal, helium-filled, welded storage container that does not contain materials subject to radiolytic decomposition. A Bagless Transfer System (BTS), utilizing this bagless transfer process, has been in service at SRS since August 1997. It is a semi-automated system that has proven to be very reliable during its three years of operation.The Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) at Hanford has a similar need for long-term storage of radioactive materials. The successful operation of the Savannah River Site BTS led to the selection of the same technology to fulfill the packaging need at Hanford. However, there are a number of differences between the existing SRS BTS and the system currently in operation at Hanford. These differences will be discussed in this paper. Additionally, a system is necessary to produce another all-metal, welded container into which the container produced by the BTS can be placed. This container must be in conformance with the criteria specified in DOE-STD-3013 for an outer container. SRS Engineers are developing a system (outer container welder), based on the tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding equipment used in the BTS, to produce this outer container

  18. Effects of in vitro storage time and semen-extender on membrane quality of boar sperm assessed by flow cytometry.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Waterhouse, K E; De Angelis, P M; Haugan, T; Paulenz, H; Hofmo, P O; Farstad, W

    2004-12-01

    The Norwegian AI company Norsvin has used the short-term semen-extender BTS to extend and store boar semen since the late 1980s. Fertility results have been consistent when extended semen has been used for AI within 3 days after collection, however, from a production and economic point of view it is preferable that semen stored for up to 5 days can be used. The aim of this study was to compare membrane quality of sperm stored in BTS for 3 days with sperm stored in the long-term semen-extenders Androstar, Mulberry III and X-cell for 5 days. Using a split-sample design, plasma membrane- and acrosome-integrity were assessed flow cytometrically by use of Yo-Pro-1 and PNA-FITC, and fluidity and phospholipid asymmetry of the membrane were assessed by use of MC540 and Annexin V-FITC. Due to observed sperm fragmentation in Androstar after Day 1, the data for Androstar were excluded from the analyses. After 5 days of storage, the membrane quality of X-cell-stored sperm was not statistically different from that of sperm stored in BTS for 3 days, while membrane quality of sperm stored in Mulberry III was statistically better on Day 5 compared to BTS on Day 3. In conclusion, Mulberry III and X-cell preserve sperm quality, as well as that of BTS on Day 3, for up to 5 days after collection.

  19. Structure and stability of BaTiSi2O7

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Viani, Alberto; Palermo, Andrea; Zanardi, Stefano

    2015-01-01

    emission) whose exhaustive explanation has been hampered to date by the lack of a structure model. In this work, BTS2 and the related compound BaTiSi4O11 (BTS4) were synthesized through conventional solid-state reaction methods. BTS2 invariably shows complex twinning patterns. Thus, its structure solution...... the triclinic phase has the space group  and unit cell a = 7.99385 (4), b = 10.01017 (5), c = 7.47514 (3) Å, α = 90.084 (8), β = 100.368 (8) and γ = 89.937 (9)º. These lattices can be seen as a distortion of that of tetragonal synthetic β-BaVSi2O7 with Ti in place of V. The structure models obtained from...

  20. Public Use Airports, Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [public_use_airports_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The Public Use Airports database is a geographic point database of aircraft landing facilities in the United States and U.S. Territories. Attribute data is provided...

  1. Intermodal Terminal Facilities, Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [intermodal_terminal_facility_BTS_2003

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — This is a public dataset for the Department of Transportation, Research and Innovative Technology Administration's Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The public...

  2. Method for Evaluation of Outage Probability on Random Access Channel in Mobile Communication Systems

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kollár, Martin

    2012-05-01

    In order to access the cell in all mobile communication technologies a so called random-access procedure is used. For example in GSM this is represented by sending the CHANNEL REQUEST message from Mobile Station (MS) to Base Transceiver Station (BTS) which is consequently forwarded as an CHANNEL REQUIRED message to the Base Station Controller (BSC). If the BTS decodes some noise on the Random Access Channel (RACH) as random access by mistake (so- called ‘phantom RACH') then it is a question of pure coincidence which èstablishment cause’ the BTS thinks to have recognized. A typical invalid channel access request or phantom RACH is characterized by an IMMEDIATE ASSIGNMENT procedure (assignment of an SDCCH or TCH) which is not followed by sending an ESTABLISH INDICATION from MS to BTS. In this paper a mathematical model for evaluation of the Power RACH Busy Threshold (RACHBT) in order to guaranty in advance determined outage probability on RACH is described and discussed as well. It focuses on Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) however the obtained results can be generalized on remaining mobile technologies (ie WCDMA and LTE).

  3. EMG and tibial shock upon the first attempt at barefoot running.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Olin, Evan D; Gutierrez, Gregory M

    2013-04-01

    As a potential means to decrease their risk of injury, many runners are transitioning into barefoot running. Habitually shod runners tend to heel-strike (SHS), landing on their heel first, while barefoot runners tend to mid-foot or toe-strike (BTS), landing flat-footed or on the ball of their foot before bringing down the rest of the foot including the heel. This study compared muscle activity, tibial shock, and knee flexion angle in subjects between shod and barefoot conditions. Eighteen habitually SHS recreational runners ran for 3 separate 7-minute trials, including SHS, barefoot heel-strike (BHS), and BTS conditions. EMG, tibial shock, and knee flexion angle were monitored using bipolar surface electrodes, an accelerometer, and an electrogoniometer, respectively. A one-way MANOVA for repeated measures was conducted and several significant changes were noted between SHS and BTS, including significant increases in average EMG of the medial gastrocnemius (p=.05), average and peak tibial shock (pknee flexion angle (pinjurious, these data indicate that habitually SHS runners who choose to transition into a BTS technique must undertake the process cautiously. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. HYBRID CONTINUUM-DISCONTINUUM MODELLING OF ROCK FRACUTRE PROCESS IN BRAZILIAN TENSILE STRENGTH TEST

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Huaming An

    2017-10-01

    Full Text Available A hybrid continuum-discontinuum method is introduced to model the rock failure process in Brazilian tensile strength (BTS test. The key component of the hybrid continuum-discontinuum method, i.e. transition from continuum to discontinuum through fracture and fragmentation, is introduced in detail. A laboratory test is conducted first to capture the rock fracture pattern in the BTS test while the tensile strength is calculated according to the peak value of the loading forces. Then the proposed method is used to model the rock behaviour during BTS test. The stress propagation is modelled and compared with those modelled by finite element method in literatures. In addition, the crack initiation and propagation are captured and compared with the facture patter in laboratory test. Moreover, the force-loading displacement curve is obtained which represents a typical brittle material failure process. Furthermore, the stress distributions along the vertical direction are compared with the theoretical solution. It is concluded that the hybrid continuum-discontinuum method can model the stress propagation process and the entire rock failure process in BTS test. The proposed method is a valuable numerical tool for studying the rock behaviour involving the fracture and fragmentation processes.

  5. On Schwinger terms in (3+1)-dimensions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Langmann, E.

    1991-02-01

    Schwinger terms arise in current algebras due to regularisations required for a consistent construction of the currents. In (1+1)-dimensions one has to normal order, and the resulting Schwinger term is the well-known Kac-Peterson cocycle. In higher dimensions, an additional wave function renormalisation is necessary leading to operator valued Schwinger terms. A rigorous, nonperturbative construction of such Schwinger terms was given by Mickelsson and Rajeev [Commun. Math. Phys. 116, 365 (1988)] in terms of determinant bundles over infinite dimensional Grassmannians. We present an alternative construction of this Schwinger term by means of quasi-free second quantization of fermions. First, we review this formalism and the construction of current algebras in (1+1)-dimensions within this framework: gauge transformations correspond to unitarily implementable Bogoliubov transformations (BTS), and the currents can be obtained from the implementers of these BTS. It is argued that in higher dimensions, gauge transformations give rise to BTS which are not unitarily implementable. We propose an implementation of such BTS by quadratic forms which allows us to obtain current algebras in (3+1)-dimensions and the Mickelsson-Rajeev Schwinger term in a simple and natural way. (author)

  6. RADIASI DI SEKITAR MENARA BASE TRANSCEIVER STATION DI BANDUNG DAN JAKARTA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Athena Athena

    2014-02-01

    Full Text Available Abstrak Telah  dilakukan  penelitian  Pengaruh  Medan  Elektromagnetik Terhadap  Kesehatan  Masyarakat  Di  Sekitar  Menara Pemancar  Telepon  Seluler  (BTS  di  Jakarta  dan  Bandung  bertujuan  untuk  mengetahui  besar  pajanan  medan elektromagnetik yang berasal dari menara telepon seluler (BTS dan kondisi kesehatan (kecemasan ma syarakat yang bermukim  di  sekitar  BTS.  Disain  penelitian  adalah  cross-sectional  dengan  jumlah  sampel  di  masing-masing  lokasi adalah 10 (7 BTS dengan sistem GSM dan 3 BTS dengan sistem CDMA  yang dipilih secara purposif.  Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan cara pengukuran rapat daya di 16 titik di sekeliling BTS  (setiap 22,5o sudut penjuru angin pada jarak  100  meter.  Berdasarkan  hasil  pengukuran  tersebut,  p ada  arah  dengan  rapat  daya  paling  besar,  pengukuran dilanjutkan  pada  pada  jarak  50,  150,  200,  250,  dan  300  meter.  Alat  ukur  yang  digunakan  adalah  Radio  Frequency Electromagnetic Field Strength Meters  SPECTRAN® HF-2025E.  Data hasil pengukuran medan elektromagnetik akan dipetakan berdasarkan titik pengukuran di masing-masing BTS, dan dibandingkan dengan peraturan yang ada.  Hasil: Pada  jarak  100  meter  dari  BTS,  rapat  daya  frekuensi  900  MHz  berkisar  antara  tidak  terdeteksi  sampai  396  W/cm2 dengan  modus  2  W/cm2.  Pada  frekuensi  1800  MHz  berkisar  antara   tidak  terdeteksi  sampai  282  W/cm2 dengan modus  0,4  W/cm2 dan  pada  frekuensi    2200  MHz  antara  tidak  terdeteksi  sampai  140  W/Cm2dengan  modus  13 W/cm2. Berdasarkan jarak pengukuran, rapat daya pada frekuensi 900 MHz paling tinggi terukur pada jarak 250 meter dari BTS, sebesar 700  W/cm2; frekuensi 1800 MHz , paling tinggi 540  W/cm2 terukur pada jarak 100 meter; pada frekuensi 2200 MHz paling tinggi 570  W/cm2 terukur pada jarak 250 meter. Kesimpulan: Secara

  7. Kinetics modeling and reaction mechanism of ferrate(VI) oxidation of benzotriazoles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Bin; Ying, Guang-Guo; Zhang, Li-Juan; Zhou, Li-Jun; Liu, Shan; Fang, Yi-Xiang

    2011-03-01

    Benzotriazoles (BTs) are high production volume chemicals with broad application in various industrial processes and in households, and have been found to be omnipresent in aquatic environments. We investigated oxidation of five benzotriazoles (BT: 1H-benzotriazole; 5MBT: 5-methyl-1H-benzotriazole; DMBT: 5,6-dimethyl-1H-benzotriazole hydrate; 5CBT: 5-chloro-1H-benzotriazole; HBT: 1-hydroxybenzotriazole) by aqueous ferrate (Fe(VI)) to determine reaction kinetics as a function of pH (6.0-10.0), and interpreted the reaction mechanism of Fe(VI) with BTs by using a linear free-energy relationship. The pK(a) values of BT and DMBT were also determined using UV-Visible spectroscopic method in order to calculate the species-specific rate constants, and they were 8.37 ± 0.0 and 8.98 ± 0.08 respectively. Each of BTs reacted moderately with Fe(VI) with the k(app) ranged from 7.2 to 103.8 M(-1)s(-1) at pH 7.0 and 24 ± 1 °C. When the molar ratio of Fe(VI) and BTs increased up to 30:1, the removal rate of BTs reached about >95% in buffered milli-Q water or secondary wastewater effluent. The electrophilic oxidation mechanism of the above reaction was illustrated by using a linear free-energy relationship between pH-dependence of species-specific rate constants and substituent effects (σ(p)). Fe(VI) reacts initially with BTs by electrophilic attack at the 1,2,3-triazole moiety of BT, 5MBT, DMBT and 5CBT, and at the N-OH bond of HBT. Moreover, for BT, 5MBT, DMBT and 5CBT, the reactions with the species HFeO(4)(-) predominantly controled the reaction rates. For HBT, the species H(2)FeO(4) with dissociated HBT played a major role in the reaction. The results showed that Fe(VI) has the ability to degrade benzotriazoles in water. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. The impact of blood transfusions in deceased organ donors on the outcomes of 1,884 renal grafts from United Network for Organ Sharing Region 5.

    Science.gov (United States)

    de la Cruz, J Salvador; Sally, Mitchell B; Zatarain, John R; Crutchfield, Megan; Ramsey, Katrina; Nielsen, Jamison; Patel, Madhukar; Lapidus, Jodi; Orloff, Susan; Malinoski, Darren J

    2015-10-01

    Historically, strategies to reduce acute rejection and improve graft survival in kidney transplant recipients included blood transfusions (BTs) before transplantation. While advents in recipient immunosuppression strategies have replaced this practice, the impact of BTs in the organ donor on recipient graft outcomes has not been evaluated. We hypothesize that BTs in organ donors after neurologic determination of death (DNDDs) translate into improved recipient renal graft outcomes, as measured by a decrease in delayed graft function (DGF). Donor demographics, critical care end points, the use of BTs, and graft outcome data were prospectively collected on DNDDs from March 2012 to October 2013 in the United Network for Organ Sharing Region 5 Donor Management Database. Propensity analysis determined each DNDD's probability of receiving packed red blood cells based on demographic and critical care data as well as provider bias. The primary outcome measure was the rate of DGF (dialysis in the first week after transplantation) in different donor BT groups as follows: no BT, any BT, 1 to 5, 6 to 10, or greater than 10 packed red blood cell units. Regression models determined the relationship between donor BTs and recipient DGF after accounting for known predictors of DGF as well as the propensity to receive a BT. Data were complete for 1,884 renal grafts from 1,006 DNDDs; 52% received any BT, 32% received 1 to 5 U, 11% received 6 to 10, and 9% received greater than 10 U of blood. Grafts from transfused donors had a lower rate of DGF compared with those of the nontransfused donors (26% vs. 34%, p donors with any BT had a lower odds of DGF (odds ratio, 0.76; p = 0.030), and this effect was greatest in those with greater than 10 U transfused. Any BT in a DNDD was associated with a 23% decrease in the odds of recipients developing DGF, and this effect was more pronounced as the number of BTs increased. Therapeutic study, level III; epidemiologic/prognostic study, level II.

  9. Study of CO2 cyclic absorption stability of CaO-based sorbents derived from lime mud purified by sucrose method.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ma, AiHua; Jia, QingMing; Su, HongYing; Zhi, YunFei; Tian, Na; Wu, Jing; Shan, ShaoYun

    2016-02-01

    Using lime mud (LM) purified by sucrose method, derived from paper-making industry, as calcium precursor, and using mineral rejects-bauxite-tailings (BTs) from aluminum production as dopant, the CaO-based sorbents for high-temperature CO2 capture were prepared. Effects of BTs content, precalcining time, and temperature on CO2 cyclic absorption stability were illustrated. The cyclic carbonation behavior was investigated in a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). Phase composition and morphologies were analyzed by XRD and SEM. The results reflected that the as-synthesized CaO-based sorbent doped with 10 wt% BTs showed a superior CO2 cyclic absorption-desorption conversion during multiple cycles, with conversion being >38 % after 50 cycles. Occurrence of Ca12Al14O33 phase during precalcination was probably responsible for the excellent CO2 cyclic stability.

  10. Heat pain detection threshold is associated with the area of secondary hyperalgesia following brief thermal sensitization

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Hansen, Morten Sejer; Wetterslev, Jørn; Pipper, Christian Bressen

    2017-01-01

    INTRODUCTION: The area of secondary hyperalgesia following brief thermal sensitization (BTS) of the skin and heat pain detection thresholds (HPDT) may both have predictive abilities in regards to pain sensitivity and clinical pain states. The association between HPDT and secondary hyperalgesia......, however, remains unsettled, and the dissimilarities in physiologic properties suggest that they may represent 2 distinctively different pain entities. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between HPDT and BTS-induced secondary hyperalgesia. METHODS: A sample of 121 healthy male...... participants was included and tested on 2 separate study days with BTS (45°C, 3 minutes), HPDT, and pain during thermal stimulation (45°C, 1 minute). Areas of secondary hyperalgesia were quantified after monofilament pinprick stimulation. The pain catastrophizing scale (PCS) and hospital anxiety and depression...

  11. Physiotherapy in asthma--seeking consensus.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nowobilski, Roman; Plaszewski, Maciej; Wloch, Tomasz; Mika, Piotr; Gajewski, Piotr; Brożek, Jan L

    2013-08-01

    The evidence base for or against physiotherapy interventions in asthmatic adults remains ambiguous, and there are discrepancies between different clinical practice guidelines. We evaluated the level of agreement between the recommendations about physiotherapy for adults with asthma in two major clinical practice guidelines: the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA 2011) and the British Thoracic Society and the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Respiratory Care (BTS/ACPRC 2009). We used the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument to assess the methodological rigor of the guideline development, the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) tool and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale to assess the methodological quality of systematic reviews and clinical trials included in the analyzed documents. Additionally, we compared the reference lists of the analyzed sections to establish the overlap in included primary and secondary studies. We observed no agreement between the two guidelines in the choice of source research articles. Only two studies out of 18 used in BTS guidelines were used in the GINA. The reason why GINA developers did not use the body of evidence included in BTS is that it is not clear. Three independent investigators indicated higher scores in all domains of the AGREE II in the BTS/ACPRC document in comparison with the GINA guidelines. The significant differences in the content and in the development processes of the examined sections of the two guidelines suggest the need for more frequent and careful updating or directing the readers of the GINA to the BTS/ACPRC, a guideline addressing specifically and more comprehensively physiotherapy interventions in asthma.

  12. The UK Quality and Outcomes Framework pay-for-performance scheme and spirometry: rewarding quality or just quantity? A cross-sectional study in Rotherham, UK

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    South Gail

    2009-06-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Background Accurate spirometry is important in the management of COPD. The UK Quality and Outcomes Framework pay-for-performance scheme for general practitioners includes spirometry related indicators within its COPD domain. It is not known whether high achievement against QOF spirometry indicators is associated with spirometry to BTS standards. Methods Data were obtained from the records of 3,217 patients randomly sampled from 5,649 patients with COPD in 38 general practices in Rotherham, UK. Severity of airflow obstruction was categorised by FEV1 (% predicted according to NICE guidelines. This was compared with clinician recorded COPD severity. The proportion of patients whose spirometry met BTS standards was calculated in each practice using a random sub-sample of 761 patients. The Spearman rank correlation between practice level QOF spirometry achievement and performance against BTS spirometry standards was calculated. Results Spirometry as assessed by clinical records was to BTS standards in 31% of cases (range at practice level 0% to 74%. The categorisation of airflow obstruction according to the most recent spirometry results did not agree well with the clinical categorisation of COPD recorded in the notes (Cohen's kappa = 0.34, 0.30 – 0.38. 12% of patients on COPD registers had FEV1 (% predicted results recorded that did not support the diagnosis of COPD. There was no association between quality, as measured by adherence to BTS spirometry standards, and either QOF COPD9 achievement (Spearman's rho = -0.11, or QOF COPD10 achievement (rho = 0.01. Conclusion The UK Quality and Outcomes Framework currently assesses the quantity, but not the quality of spirometry.

  13. Improving Satellite Quantitative Precipitation Estimation Using GOES-Retrieved Cloud Optical Depth

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Stenz, Ronald; Dong, Xiquan; Xi, Baike; Feng, Zhe; Kuligowski, Robert J.

    2016-02-01

    To address significant gaps in ground-based radar coverage and rain gauge networks in the U.S., geostationary satellite quantitative precipitation estimates (QPEs) such as the Self-Calibrating Multivariate Precipitation Retrievals (SCaMPR) can be used to fill in both the spatial and temporal gaps of ground-based measurements. Additionally, with the launch of GOES-R, the temporal resolution of satellite QPEs may be comparable to that of Weather Service Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) volume scans as GOES images will be available every five minutes. However, while satellite QPEs have strengths in spatial coverage and temporal resolution, they face limitations particularly during convective events. Deep Convective Systems (DCSs) have large cloud shields with similar brightness temperatures (BTs) over nearly the entire system, but widely varying precipitation rates beneath these clouds. Geostationary satellite QPEs relying on the indirect relationship between BTs and precipitation rates often suffer from large errors because anvil regions (little/no precipitation) cannot be distinguished from rain-cores (heavy precipitation) using only BTs. However, a combination of BTs and optical depth (τ) has been found to reduce overestimates of precipitation in anvil regions (Stenz et al. 2014). A new rain mask algorithm incorporating both τ and BTs has been developed, and its application to the existing SCaMPR algorithm was evaluated. The performance of the modified SCaMPR was evaluated using traditional skill scores and a more detailed analysis of performance in individual DCS components by utilizing the Feng et al. (2012) classification algorithm. SCaMPR estimates with the new rain mask applied benefited from significantly reduced overestimates of precipitation in anvil regions and overall improvements in skill scores.

  14. Effect of altered eating habits and periods during Ramadan fasting on intraocular pressure, tear secretion, corneal and anterior chamber parameters.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kerimoglu, H; Ozturk, B; Gunduz, K; Bozkurt, B; Kamis, U; Okka, M

    2010-01-01

    To determine whether altered eating habits and periods, especially the pre-dawn meal, during Ramadan fasting have any significant effect on intraocular pressure (IOP), tear secretion, corneal and anterior chamber parameters. IOP, basal tear secretion (BTS), reflex tear secretion (RTS), and Pentacam measurements of 31 healthy volunteers were performed at 0800 and 1600 hours during Ramadan fasting and 1 month later during non-fasting period. Comparison of measurements between fasting and non-fasting periods at 0800 hours revealed significantly higher values for IOP (P=0.005), RTS (P=0.006), and BTS (P=0.014) during fasting. Conversely at 1600 hours, IOP was significantly lower during fasting (P=0.013) and no statistically significant difference was noted for RTS and BTS. IOP showed a diurnal variation of 2.45 mmHg (P<0.001) and BTS showed a 3.06 mm decrease (P=0.04) during the fasting period. No significant differences could be found in the corneal and anterior chamber parameters during fasting and non-fasting periods. Our results revealed that fluid loading at the pre-dawn meal during Ramadan fasting might increase the IOP and tear secretion in the early morning period and these values decrease remarkably at the end of 12 h of fasting due to dehydration.

  15. Osmolality and composition of the extender during the cold storage of Prochilodus lineatus (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae sperm

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ana T. M. Viveiros

    Full Text Available This study evaluates the effects of extender osmolality and composition on the cooling of Prochilodus lineatussperm. Sperm was diluted in six extenders: two compositions (powdered coconut water(tm = ACP; Beltsville Thawing Solution(tm = BTS x three osmolalities (285, 325, and 365 mOsm/kg plus an undiluted control, and stored at 6-8°C. Motility rate and velocities (curvilinear, straight line, and average path were determined every other day. Osmolality did not affect the quality of cooled sperm, thus data were pooled. Motility was higher on d 0 compared to the other days and diluted samples (85-90% yielded higher motility than control (75%. On d 2, motility was higher in BTS-diluted samples and control, but on d 4 and 6, control yielded the highest motility. Velocities decreased from d 0 to 6 in diluted samples, but not in control. On d 0, velocities were higher in BTS-diluted sperm, but, on d 2, 4, and 6, control yielded higher velocities despite of the large variation among males. Thus P. lineatussperm should be stored in BTS or without dilution, for a maximum of two days at 6-8°C. Extender osmolality between 285 and 365 mOsm/kg does not affect sperm quality during cold storage.

  16. EFFECT OF THE ADDITION OF SEMINAL PLASMA, VITAMIN E AND INCUBATION TIME ON POST-THAWED SPERM VIABILITY IN BOAR SEMEN

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alba G C Pech-Sansores

    2011-09-01

    Full Text Available The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of seminal plasma (SP, vitamin E (VE, and incubation time on sperm viability of post-thawed boar semen. Thirty six ejaculates were used and allocated to four treatments: T1, semen + BTS (Belstville Thawing Solution + 10% SP; T2, semen + BTS + 200μg/ml VE; T3, semen + BTS + 10% SP + 200μg/ml VE; T4, semen + BTS (control. Motility (MOT, intact acrosomes (IA, membrane integrity (MI and mitochondrial activity (MA were evaluated, at 0 and 30 min after thawing. A split plot design was used and the data analyzed using a mixed model analysis of variance. There was a significant effect of SP and VE on IA and MI (P0.05. There was significant effect of incubation time on MOT (21.3 and 27.9% and IA (46.0 and 36.0%, at 0 and 30 min post-thawing (P <0.05. It is concluded that the vitamin E, seminal plasma or the combination of both, affected the thawed sperm traits here studied. Incubation time increased motility and intact acrosome percentage but did not affect the membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity.

  17. Highly textured fresnoite thin films synthesized in situ by pulsed laser deposition with CO2 laser direct heating

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lorenz, Michael; Stölzel, Marko; Brachwitz, Kerstin; Hochmuth, Holger; Grundmann, Marius; De Pablos-Martin, Araceli; Patzig, Christian; Höche, Thomas

    2014-01-01

    Fresnoite Ba 2 TiSi 2 O 8 (BTS) thin films were grown and crystallized in situ using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) with CO 2 laser direct heating of the a-plane sapphire (1 1 0) substrates up to 1250 °C. Starting with 775 °C growth temperature, (0 0 1)- and (1 1 0)-textured BTS and BaTiO 3 phases, respectively, could be assigned in the films, and the typical fern-like BTS crystallization patterns appear. For higher process temperatures of 1100 to 1250 °C, atomically smooth, terraced surface of the films was found, accompanied by crystalline high-temperature phases of Ba–Ti–Si oxides. HAADF micrographs taken in both scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometry mode show details of morphology and elemental distribution inside the films and at the interface. To balance the inherent Si deficiency of the BTS films, growth from glassy BTS × 2 SiO 2 and BTS × 2.5 SiO 2 targets was considered as well. The latter targets are ideal for PLD since the employed glasses possess 100% of the theoretical density and are homogeneous at the atomic scale. (paper)

  18. Butyltin residues in southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) found dead along California coastal waters

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kannan, K.; Guruge, K.S.; Thomas, N.J.; Tanabe, S.; Giesy, J.P.

    1998-01-01

    Tributyltin (TBT) and its degradation products, mono- (MBT) and dibutyltin (DBT), were determined in liver, kidney, and brain tissues of adult southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) found dead along the coast of California during 1992a??1996. Hepatic concentrations of butyltin compounds (BTs = MBT + DBT + TBT) ranged from 40 to 9200 ng/g wet wt, which varied depending on the sampling location and gender. Concentrations of BTs in sea otters were comparable to those reported in stranded bottlenose dolphins from the U.S. Atlantic Coast during 1989a??1994. Greater accumulation of butyltins in sea otters was explained by their bottom-feeding habit and the diet that consists exclusively of invertebrates such as mollusks and gastropods. Livers of female sea otters contained approximately 2-fold greater concentrations of BTs than did those of males. The composition of butyltin compounds in sea otter tissues was predominated by TBT in most cases and suggestive of recent exposure. Large harbors such as Monterey Harbor that handle ships legally painted with TBT-containing antifouling paints continued to experience ecotoxicologically significant butyltin contamination. Sea otters, which were affected by infectious diseases, contained greater concentrations of BTs in their tissues than those that died from trauma and other unknown causes.

  19. [Adherence to the recommendations in respiratory rehabilitation of the British Thoracic Society in patients with cystic fibrosis: a study of Colombian physiotherapists].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Duran-Palomino, Diana; Chapetón, Olga; Martínez-Santa, Jaime; Campos-Rodríguez, Adriana; Ramírez-Vélez, Robinson

    2013-04-01

    The aim was to evaluate compliance with the recommendations in respiratory rehabilitation (ReR), raised by the British Thoracic Society (BTS) in patients with cystic fibrosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 224 Colombian physiotherapists to identify interventions and components of ReR programs as recommended by the BTS. Interventions with high level of evidence (Grade A) such as: Bronchial Hygiene Therapy (54.0%), and Active Cycle of Breathing Techniques (35.3%) were identified. However, high percentage of physiotherapists practiced interventions with lower grade of recommendation (Grade D) such as: hypertonic saline and bronchodilator to prevent bronchospasm (33.9%), and using manual therapy techniques and thoracic mobility exercises (38.4%) to correct postural and breathing problems. In conclusions we confirm important differences in therapeutic assistant components of the ReR raised by the BTS for patients with cystic fibrosis.

  20. US Hazardous Materials Routes, Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [hazardous_material_routes_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hazardous Material Routes were developed using the 2004 First Edition TIGER/Line files. The routes are...

  1. Incentives for Truthful Information Elicitation of Continuous Signals

    OpenAIRE

    Radanovic, Goran; Faltings, Boi

    2014-01-01

    We consider settings where a collective intelligence is formed by aggregating information contributed from many independent agents, such as product reviews, community sensing, or opinion polls. We propose a novel mechanism that elicits both private signals and beliefs. The mechanism extends the previous versions of the Bayesian Truth Serum (the original BTS, the RBTS, and the multi-valued BTS), by allowing small populations and non-binary private signals, while not requiring additional assump...

  2. Validating Bayesian truth serum in large-scale online human experiments

    OpenAIRE

    Pickard, Galen; Frank, Morgan Ryan; Cebrian, Manuel; Rahwan, Iyad

    2016-01-01

    This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Bayesian truth serum (BTS) is an exciting new method for improving honesty and information quality in multiple-choice survey, but, despite the method's mathematical reliance on large sample sizes, existing literature about BTS only focuses on small experiments....

  3. Occurrence and behavior of butyltins in intertidal and shallow subtidal surface sediments of an estuarine beach under different sampling conditions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Santos, Dayana Moscardi dos; Sant'Anna, Bruno Sampaio; Sandron, Daniela Corsino; Cardoso de Souza, Sara; Cristale, Joyce; Marchi, Mary Rosa Rodrigues de; Turra, Alexander

    2010-07-01

    Contamination by butyltin compounds (BTs) has been reported in estuarine environments worldwide, with serious impacts on the biota of these areas. Considering that BTs can be degraded by varying environmental conditions such as incident light and salinity, the short-term variations in such factors may lead to inaccurate estimates of BTs concentrations in nature. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the possibility that measurements of BTs in estuarine sediments are influenced by different sampling conditions, including period of the day (day or night), tidal zone (intertidal or subtidal), and tides (high or low). The study area is located on the Brazilian southeastern coast, São Vicente Estuary, at Pescadores Beach, where BT contamination was previously detected. Three replicate samples of surface sediment were collected randomly in each combination of period of the day, tidal zone, and tide condition, from three subareas along the beach, totaling 72 samples. BTs were analyzed by GC-PFPD using a tin filter and a VF-5 column, by means of a validated method. The concentrations of tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT), and monobutyltin (MBT) ranged from undetectable to 161 ng Sn g -1 (d.w.). In most samples (71%), only MBT was quantifiable, whereas TBTs were measured in only 14, suggesting either an old contamination or rapid degradation processes. DBT was found in 27 samples, but could be quantified in only one. MBT concentrations did not differ significantly with time of day, zones, or tide conditions. DBT and TBT could not be compared under all these environmental conditions, because only a few samples were above the quantification limit. Pooled samples of TBT did not reveal any difference between day and night. These results indicated that, in assessing contamination by butyltin compounds, surface-sediment samples can be collected in any environmental conditions. However, the wide variation of BTs concentrations in the study area, i.e., over a very small

  4. Job Satisfaction DEOCS 4.1 Construct Validity Summary

    Science.gov (United States)

    2017-08-01

    Locke , 1976, p. 1300), and as a “positive (or negative) evaluative judgment one makes about one’s job or job situation” (Weiss, 2002, p. 175...between the data and the factor. The BTS hypothesizes that the correlation matrix is an identity matrix. The BTS was significant (2 (3) = 22,122.49; p...01), therefore allowing us to reject the null hypothesis that the correlation matrix is an identity and to conclude that the factor analysis is an

  5. British Thoracic Society Quality Standards for acute non-invasive ventilation in adults

    Science.gov (United States)

    Davies, Michael; Allen, Martin; Bentley, Andrew; Bourke, Stephen C; Creagh-Brown, Ben; D’Oliveiro, Rachel; Glossop, Alastair; Gray, Alasdair; Jacobs, Phillip; Mahadeva, Ravi; Moses, Rachael; Setchfield, Ian

    2018-01-01

    Introduction The purpose of the quality standards document is to provide healthcare professionals, commissioners, service providers and patients with a guide to standards of care that should be met for the provision of acute non-invasive ventilation in adults together with measurable markers of good practice. Methods Development of British Thoracic Society (BTS) Quality Standards follows the BTS process of quality standard production based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence process manual for the development of quality standards. Results 6 quality statements have been developed, each describing a standard of care for the provision of acute non-invasive ventilation in the UK, together with measurable markers of good practice. Conclusion BTS Quality Standards for acute non-invasive ventilation in adults form a key part of the range of supporting materials that the Society produces to assist in the dissemination and implementation of guideline’s recommendations. PMID:29636979

  6. TRIXcell+, a new long-term boar semen extender containing whey protein with higher preservation capacity and litter size

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    B.M. van den Berg

    2014-02-01

    Full Text Available It was the aim of the present study to test whey as protective protein for the sperm cell in the long-term boar semen preservation medium TRIXcell. Analyses of sperm cell motility using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA indicated that the whey protein Porex has a similar protective effect as bovine serum albumin (BSA in maintaining viability of stored boar sperm. Boar sperm diluted in TRIXcell+ maintains commercially acceptable motility (>60% for 10 days, while swine sperm diluted in the semen preservation medium Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS maintains commercially acceptable motility (>60% for 3-5 days for most boars. To test the on-farm fertility performance of TRIXcell+ compared to BTS, inseminations were started on 35 commercial pig production farms in the summer of 2006. During the period of July 2006 until July 2012 for each farm and each calendar year the mean farrowing rate and litter size for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and stored for 3-5 days was found higher than that of semen stored for 1-2 days in BTS. Based on data gained from a total of 583.749 sows inseminated through the years 2006-2012, the mean farrowing rate for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and BTS was 90.4 ± 4.0 and 87.9 ± 3.6, respectively, which is not significantly different. Based on the same data, the mean total number of piglets born alive for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and BTS was 14.2 ± 0.7 and 13.6 ± 0.6, respectively, which is significantly different. We conclude that whey protein can effectively be used in the long-term preservation medium TRIXcell resulting in a higher litter size.

  7. TRIXcell+, a new long-term boar semen extender containing whey protein with higher preservation capacity and litter size

    Science.gov (United States)

    van den Berg, B.M.; Reesink, J.; Reesink, W.

    2014-01-01

    It was the aim of the present study to test whey as protective protein for the sperm cell in the long-term boar semen preservation medium TRIXcell. Analyses of sperm cell motility using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) indicated that the whey protein Porex has a similar protective effect as bovine serum albumin (BSA) in maintaining viability of stored boar sperm. Boar sperm diluted in TRIXcell+ maintains commercially acceptable motility (>60%) for 10 days, while swine sperm diluted in the semen preservation medium Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) maintains commercially acceptable motility (>60%) for 3-5 days for most boars. To test the on-farm fertility performance of TRIXcell+ compared to BTS, inseminations were started on 35 commercial pig production farms in the summer of 2006. During the period of July 2006 until July 2012 for each farm and each calendar year the mean farrowing rate and litter size for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and stored for 3-5 days was found higher than that of semen stored for 1-2 days in BTS. Based on data gained from a total of 583.749 sows inseminated through the years 2006-2012, the mean farrowing rate for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and BTS was 90.4 ± 4.0 and 87.9 ± 3.6, respectively, which is not significantly different. Based on the same data, the mean total number of piglets born alive for semen diluted in TRIXcell+ and BTS was 14.2 ± 0.7 and 13.6 ± 0.6, respectively, which is significantly different. We conclude that whey protein can effectively be used in the long-term preservation medium TRIXcell resulting in a higher litter size. PMID:26623335

  8. Dynamic occupational risk model for offshore operations in harsh environments

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Song, Guozheng; Khan, Faisal; Wang, Hangzhou; Leighton, Shelly; Yuan, Zhi; Liu, Hanwen

    2016-01-01

    The expansion of offshore oil exploitation into remote areas (e.g., Arctic) with harsh environments has significantly increased occupational risks. Among occupational accidents, slips, trips and falls from height (STFs) account for a significant portion. Thus, a dynamic risk assessment of the three main occupational accidents is meaningful to decrease offshore occupational risks. Bow-tie Models (BTs) were established in this study for the risk analysis of STFs considering extreme environmental factors. To relax the limitations of BTs, Bayesian networks (BNs) were developed based on BTs to dynamically assess risks of STFs. The occurrence and consequence probabilities of STFs were respectively calculated using BTs and BNs, and the obtained probabilities verified BNs' rationality and advantage. Furthermore, the probability adaptation for STFs was accomplished in a specific scenario with BNs. Finally, posterior probabilities of basic events were achieved through diagnostic analysis, and critical basic events were analyzed based on their posterior likelihood to cause occupational accidents. The highlight is systematically analyzing STF accidents for offshore operations and dynamically assessing their risks considering the harsh environmental factors. This study can guide the allocation of prevention resources and benefit the safety management of offshore operations. - Highlights: • A novel dynamic risk model for occupational accidents. • First time consideration of harsh environment in occupational accident modeling. • A Bayesian network based model for risk management strategies.

  9. The usefulness of Duplex Doppler ultrasound in the angiological and dermatological diagnosis of patients with blue toe syndrome.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pawlaczyk, Katarzyna; Gabriel, Marcin; Strzelecka-Węklar, Daria A; Krasiński, Zbigniew; Stanisic, Michal; Gabriel, Zofia; Dzieciuchowicz, Łukasz; Adamski, Zygmunt

    2017-10-01

    Peripheral microembolism is one of the most frequent causes of acute limb ischemia. In order to effectively prevent relapses it is essential to localize and eliminate the source of embolism. To evaluate the role of Duplex Doppler ultrasound examination in identifying the causes of blue toe syndrome (BTS). The group of 165 patients with clinical symptoms of BTS on their upper limbs ( n = 16) and lower limbs ( n = 149) was investigated. They all underwent Duplex Doppler ultrasound of the major arteries of the extremities, where ischemic changes occurred. Morphological and functional changes which might be potential sources of microembolism were identified in 146 patients. These changes included significant short-length stenoses or unstable atherosclerotic plaque ( n = 73), true aneurysms ( n = 42) and pseudoaneurysms ( n = 17). In 11 cases, pathology of vascular prostheses in the form of anastomotic aneurysms, infection and residual thrombi after fibrinolysis was detected. In all cases, Duplex diagnosis was confirmed by other imaging and intraoperative tests. Duplex Doppler ultrasound of the arteries in the affected limb with a full length view should be the first-line examination in diagnosing patients with BTS. In the absence of hemodynamic blood flow disturbances in the major arteries in patients with symptoms of BTS, it is advisable to start haematological tests to identify/exclude congenital or acquired thrombophilia.

  10. A Robust Bayesian Truth Serum for Small Populations

    OpenAIRE

    Parkes, David C.; Witkowski, Jens

    2012-01-01

    Peer prediction mechanisms allow the truthful elicitation of private signals (e.g., experiences, or opinions) in regard to a true world state when this ground truth is unobservable. The original peer prediction method is incentive compatible for any number of agents n >= 2, but relies on a common prior, shared by all agents and the mechanism. The Bayesian Truth Serum (BTS) relaxes this assumption. While BTS still assumes that agents share a common prior, this prior need not be known to the me...

  11. Butyltins and phenyltins in biota and sediments from the Lagoon of Venice

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Angelo Bortoli

    2003-03-01

    Full Text Available Sediments and organisms were sampled to determine organotin contents - butyltins (BTs and phenyltins (PhTs - at 12 locations in an estuarine ecosystem, the Lagoon of Venice, characterised by varying contamination impacts. The results showed that organotin contamination in sediments is at lower levels, ranging from 2.5 ± 0.1 to 84 ± 1 ng g-1 (d.w. for SigmaBTs and from 0.8 ± 0.2 to 7 ± 1 ng g-1 (d.w., for SigmaPHTs, than in organisms, where the highest concentrations were found infilter feeders like mussels - from 60 ± 3 to 7632 ± 148 ng g-1 (d.w. for SigmaBTs and from 0.80 ± 0.01 to 4005 ± 121 ng g-1 (d.w. for SigmaPHTs. The possible risk to human health was assessed on the basis of the consumption of edible species sampled in some areas of the lagoon.

  12. Right ventricular outflow tract stent versus BT shunt palliation in Tetralogy of Fallot.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Quandt, Daniel; Ramchandani, Bharat; Penford, Gemma; Stickley, John; Bhole, Vinay; Mehta, Chetan; Jones, Timothy; Barron, David James; Stumper, Oliver

    2017-12-01

    This study sets out to compare morbidity, mortality and reintervention rates after stenting of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) versus modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (mBTS) for palliation in patients with tetralogy of Fallot (ToF)-type lesions. Retrospective case review study evaluating 101 patients (64 males) with ToF lesions who underwent palliation with either mBTS (n=41) or RVOT stent (n=60) to augment pulmonary blood flow over a 10-year period. Procedure-related morbidity, mortality and reintervention rates were assessed and compared. Admission rate to paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) was lower in the RVOT stent group (22% vs 100%; pFallot-type lesions can be accomplished safely, with lower PICU admission rate, a shorter hospital length of stay and shorter duration of palliation until complete repair compared with mBTS palliation. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  13. Visualization of electromagnetic exposure near LTE antennae

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zvezdina, M. Yu; Shokova, Yu A.; Nazarova, O. Yu; Al-Ali, H. T. A.; Al-Farhan, G. H. A.

    2018-01-01

    Technical progress in wireless data transfer has given an opportunity to apply information and communication technologies in various areas of economics. Digital economy is linked to the 4th and 5th generation mobile network deployment. The peculiarities of the abovementioned standards decrease BTS antenna range three times in dense developed areas and worsen electromagnetic background in big cities. In the paper the comparative assessment results for rooftop electromagnetic exposure near BTS LTE and BTS GSM antennae are given. It is shown, that at the same level of transmitter power, energy flux density for LTE standard is three times less than the one for GSM. Moreover, the conclusion is made that the rooftop could be considered safe for people for indefinite time if antenna is placed more than 5 meters above the rooftop. The value of antenna height is taken to be on the safe side, as it is required by an application of “preventive principle”.

  14. Perencanaan dan Penataan Menara Telekomunikasi Seluler di Kabupaten Sidoarjo menggunakan MapInfo

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ervin Tri Sasongko

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Perkembangan teknologi dan industri telekomunikasi telah demikian pesatnya. Ketersediaan layanan diupayakan oleh sejumlah operator yang menawarkan berbagai sistem dan layanan yang bervariasi dengan pembangunan infrastruktur jaringan radio seluler, termasuk di dalamnya menara untuk antena BTS (Base Transceiver Station. Tetapi penempatan menara yang terlalu banyak dan tanpa perencanaan yang tepat akan menimbulkan efek yang kurang baik. Berdasarkan permasalahan yang telah diuraikan diatas, maka dapat diselesaikan dengan menyusun suatu master plan tentang penataan lokasi menara di wilayah Kabupaten Sidoarjo untuk 5 tahun mendatang. Penataan lokasi menara dilakukan dengan menggunakan peta MapInfo dan berdasarkan pada kebutuhan trafik pelanggan seluler, RTRW (Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah Kabupaten Sidoarjo dan regulasi tentang peyelenggaraan menara telekomunikasi. Dalam perhitungan perencanaan kebutuhan BTS untuk tahun 2018, Kabupaten Sidoarjo membutuhkan 783 BTS yang ditopang oleh 454 menara telekomunikasi seluler bersama. Maka perlu dilakukan penambahan jumlah menara sebanyak 52 menara untuk mencukupi kebutuhan trafik pada tahun 2018. Jumlah penambahan menara tersebut akan ditempatkan di zona menara baru dengan luas total zona 14,6962 .

  15. British Thoracic Society quality standards for the investigation and management of pulmonary nodules

    Science.gov (United States)

    Baldwin, David; Callister, Matthew; Akram, Ahsan; Cane, Paul; Draffan, Jeanette; Franks, Kevin; Gleeson, Fergus; Graham, Richard; Malhotra, Puneet; Pearson, Philip; Subesinghe, Manil; Waller, David; Woolhouse, Ian

    2018-01-01

    Introduction The purpose of the quality standards document is to provide healthcare professionals, commissioners, service providers and patients with a guide to standards of care that should be met for the investigation and management of pulmonary nodules in the UK, together with measurable markers of good practice. Methods Development of British Thoracic Society (BTS) Quality Standards follows the BTS process of quality standard production based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence process manual for the development of quality standards. Results 7 quality statements have been developed, each describing a key marker of high-quality, cost-effective care for the investigation and management of pulmonary nodules, and each statement is supported by quality measures that aim to improve the structure, process and outcomes of healthcare. Discussion BTS Quality Standards for the investigation and management of pulmonary nodules form a key part of the range of supporting materials that the Society produces to assist in the dissemination and implementation of guideline recommendations. PMID:29682290

  16. National Waterway Network (line), Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [usace_nav_waterway_lin_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The National Waterway Network is a comprehensive network database of the nation's navigable waterways. The data set covers the 48 contiguous states plus the District...

  17. National Waterway Network (node), Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [usace_nav_waterway_nod_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The National Waterway Network is a comprehensive network database of the nation's navigable waterways. The data set covers the 48 contiguous states plus the District...

  18. Public Use Airport Runways, Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [public_use_airport_runway_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The Public Use Airport Runways database is a geographic dataset of runways in the United States and US territories containing information on the physical...

  19. US Army Corps of Engineers Ports, Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [usace_port_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — Contains physical information on commercial facilities at the principal U.S. Coastal, Great Lakes and Inland Ports. The data consists of listings of port area's...

  20. Hidrólisis enzimática de residuos de la cosecha de caña de azúcar

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jairo G. Salcedo Mendoza

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Título en inglés: Hydrolysis Enzymatic of crop residues sugar cane Resumen: En esta investigación, se hidrolizó un sustrato deslignificado proveniente de residuos de la cosecha caña de azúcar  (hojas y cogollos usando un  preparado enzimático con 27.53 unidades de papel filtro (FPU, obtenido a partir de enzimas comerciales. La hidrólisis se llevó a cabo a un pH de 4.2 y una temperatura de 50 oC. Fueron analizados  modelos de inhibición por sustrato, glucosa e inhibición total por producto. Los resultados mostraron que los modelos que mejor se ajustan a los datos experimentales, son los modelos de inhibición competitiva por glucosa, con una constante de Michaelis (Km de 20.37 g/L,  velocidad máxima (Vmax 39 g/L h y una constante de inhibición  (ki de 0.442. En el caso que las relaciones  enzima – Sustrato (E/S sean mayores  de 0.5, se puede aplicar el modelo cinético de Michaelis-Menten. Palabras clave: Inhibición; modelos cinéticos; hojas y cogollos; coctel de enzimas Abstract: In this research, a delignified substrate from crops residues sugar cane residues (leaves and top cane was hydrolyzed using an enzyme preparation with 27.53 FPU. This enzyme was obtained from trade. Hydrolysis was carried out to pH of 4.2 and a temperature of 50 oC. Models of inhibition models substrate, glucose and total inhibition product was analyzed. The results showed that models that best fit the data experimental was the models competitive glucose inhibition (Km= 20.37, Vmax=39 and ki= 0.442. In the event that E/S is above 0.5, can applied kinetic models of Michaelis – Menten. Keywords: Inhibition; kinetic models; leaves and tops cane; enzyme cocktail.

  1. Toxic effects of tributyltin and its metabolites on harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) immune cells in vitro

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Frouin, Heloise [Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique - Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7 (Canada); Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maurice Lamontagne Institute, Mont-Joli, Quebec G5H 3Z4 (Canada)], E-mail: heloise.frouin@iaf.inrs.ca; Lebeuf, Michel [Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maurice Lamontagne Institute, Mont-Joli, Quebec G5H 3Z4 (Canada); Saint-Louis, Richard [Institut des Sciences de la Mer de Rimouski (ISMER), Universite du Quebec a Rimouski, Rimouski, Quebec G5L 3A1 (Canada); Hammill, Mike [Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maurice Lamontagne Institute, Mont-Joli, Quebec G5H 3Z4 (Canada); Pelletier, Emilien [Institut des Sciences de la Mer de Rimouski (ISMER), Universite du Quebec a Rimouski, Rimouski, Quebec G5L 3A1 (Canada); Fournier, Michel [Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique - Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7 (Canada)

    2008-11-21

    The widespread environmental contamination, bioaccumulation and endocrine disruptor effects of butyltins (BTs) to wildlife are well documented. Although suspected, potential effects of BTs exposure on the immune system of marine mammals have been little investigated. In this study, we assessed the effects of tributyltin (TBT) and its dealkylated metabolites dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) on the immune responses of harbour seals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from pup and adult harbour seals were exposed in vitro to varying concentrations of BTs. DBT resulted in a significant decrease at 100 and 200 nM of phagocytotic activity and reduced significantly phagocytic efficiency at 200 nM in adult seals. There was no effect in phagocytosis with TBT and MBT. In pups, the highest concentration (200 nM) of DBT inhibited phagocytic efficiency. A reduction of tumor-killing capacity of adult natural killer (NK) cells occurred when leukocytes were incubated in vitro with 50 nM DBT and 200 nM TBT for 24 h. In adult seals, T-lymphocyte proliferation was significantly suppressed when the cells were exposed to 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. In pups, the proliferative response increased after an exposure to 100 nM TBT and 50 nM DBT, but decreased with 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. The immune functions were more affected by BTs exposure in adults than in pups, suggesting that other unsuspected mechanisms could trigger immune parameters in pups. The toxic potential of BTs followed the order of DBT > TBT > MBT. BT concentrations of harbour seal pups from the St. Lawrence Estuary (Bic National Park) ranged between 0.1-0.4 ng Sn/g wet weight (ww) and 1.2-13.4 ng Sn/g ww in blood and blubber, respectively. For these animals, DBT concentrations were consistently below the quantification limit of 0.04 ng Sn/g ww in blood and 0.2 ng Sn/g ww in blubber. Results suggest that concentrations measured in pups are considered too low to induce toxic effects to their immune system

  2. Toxic effects of tributyltin and its metabolites on harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) immune cells in vitro

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Frouin, Heloise; Lebeuf, Michel; Saint-Louis, Richard; Hammill, Mike; Pelletier, Emilien; Fournier, Michel

    2008-01-01

    The widespread environmental contamination, bioaccumulation and endocrine disruptor effects of butyltins (BTs) to wildlife are well documented. Although suspected, potential effects of BTs exposure on the immune system of marine mammals have been little investigated. In this study, we assessed the effects of tributyltin (TBT) and its dealkylated metabolites dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) on the immune responses of harbour seals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from pup and adult harbour seals were exposed in vitro to varying concentrations of BTs. DBT resulted in a significant decrease at 100 and 200 nM of phagocytotic activity and reduced significantly phagocytic efficiency at 200 nM in adult seals. There was no effect in phagocytosis with TBT and MBT. In pups, the highest concentration (200 nM) of DBT inhibited phagocytic efficiency. A reduction of tumor-killing capacity of adult natural killer (NK) cells occurred when leukocytes were incubated in vitro with 50 nM DBT and 200 nM TBT for 24 h. In adult seals, T-lymphocyte proliferation was significantly suppressed when the cells were exposed to 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. In pups, the proliferative response increased after an exposure to 100 nM TBT and 50 nM DBT, but decreased with 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. The immune functions were more affected by BTs exposure in adults than in pups, suggesting that other unsuspected mechanisms could trigger immune parameters in pups. The toxic potential of BTs followed the order of DBT > TBT > MBT. BT concentrations of harbour seal pups from the St. Lawrence Estuary (Bic National Park) ranged between 0.1-0.4 ng Sn/g wet weight (ww) and 1.2-13.4 ng Sn/g ww in blood and blubber, respectively. For these animals, DBT concentrations were consistently below the quantification limit of 0.04 ng Sn/g ww in blood and 0.2 ng Sn/g ww in blubber. Results suggest that concentrations measured in pups are considered too low to induce toxic effects to their immune system

  3. Toxic effects of tributyltin and its metabolites on harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) immune cells in vitro.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Frouin, Héloïse; Lebeuf, Michel; Saint-Louis, Richard; Hammill, Mike; Pelletier, Emilien; Fournier, Michel

    2008-11-21

    The widespread environmental contamination, bioaccumulation and endocrine disruptor effects of butyltins (BTs) to wildlife are well documented. Although suspected, potential effects of BTs exposure on the immune system of marine mammals have been little investigated. In this study, we assessed the effects of tributyltin (TBT) and its dealkylated metabolites dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) on the immune responses of harbour seals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from pup and adult harbour seals were exposed in vitro to varying concentrations of BTs. DBT resulted in a significant decrease at 100 and 200 nM of phagocytotic activity and reduced significantly phagocytic efficiency at 200 nM in adult seals. There was no effect in phagocytosis with TBT and MBT. In pups, the highest concentration (200 nM) of DBT inhibited phagocytic efficiency. A reduction of tumor-killing capacity of adult natural killer (NK) cells occurred when leukocytes were incubated in vitro with 50 nM DBT and 200 nM TBT for 24h. In adult seals, T-lymphocyte proliferation was significantly suppressed when the cells were exposed to 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. In pups, the proliferative response increased after an exposure to 100 nM TBT and 50 nM DBT, but decreased with 200 nM TBT and 100 nM DBT. The immune functions were more affected by BTs exposure in adults than in pups, suggesting that other unsuspected mechanisms could trigger immune parameters in pups. The toxic potential of BTs followed the order of DBT>TBT>MBT. BT concentrations of harbour seal pups from the St. Lawrence Estuary (Bic National Park) ranged between 0.1-0.4 ng Sn/g wet weight (ww) and 1.2-13.4 ng Sn/g ww in blood and blubber, respectively. For these animals, DBT concentrations were consistently below the quantification limit of 0.04 ng Sn/g ww in blood and 0.2 ng Sn/g ww in blubber. Results suggest that concentrations measured in pups are considered too low to induce toxic effects to their immune system during

  4. Diffusion barrier characteristics of co monolayer prepared by Langmuir Blodgett technique

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sharma, Sumit, E-mail: sumitelsd2007@gmail.com [Electronic Science Department, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana 136119 (India); Kumar, Mukesh, E-mail: kumarmukesh@gmail.com [Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering at Wadi Aldawasir, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Wadi Aldawasir 11991 (Saudi Arabia); Rani, Sumita [Electronic Science Department, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana 136119 (India); Kumar, Dinesh, E-mail: dineshelsd@gmail.com [Electronic Science Department, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana 136119 (India)

    2016-04-30

    Graphical abstract: Thermal stability of structures (a) Cu/SiO{sub 2}/Si and (b) Cu/Co/SiO{sub 2}/Si, indicating that presence of thin cobalt layer improves the thermal stability of the structure up to 600 °C. - Highlights: • Monolayers of cobalt were deposited on SiO{sub 2}/Si substrates using LB technique. • Copper layers were deposited on this structures using thermal evaporation method. • Thermal stability was determined by annealing the structures at various temperatures. • The structure was found to be stable up to 650 °C. - Abstract: Monolayers of Co over SiO{sub 2}/Si substrate were deposited using Langmuir Blodgett (LB) technique. The diffusion barrier capability of Co layer was evaluated against copper diffusion. The structure of the deposited Co layer was analyzed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques. Thermal stability of Cu/SiO{sub 2}/Si and Cu/Co/SiO{sub 2}/Si test structures was studied and compared using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and four probe techniques. The samples were annealed at different temperatures starting from 200 °C up to 700 °C in vacuum for 30 min. XRD results indicated that combination of Co/SiO{sub 2} worked as diffusion barrier up to 550 °C whereas SiO{sub 2} alone could work as barrier only up to 300 °C. Sheet resistance of these samples was measured as a function of annealing temperature which also supports XRD results. C–V curves of these structures under the influence of Biased Thermal Stress (BTS) were analyzed. BTS was applied at 2.5 MV cm{sup −1} at 150 °C. Results showed that in the presence of Co barrier layer there was no shift in the C–V curve even after 90 min of BTS while in the absence of barrier there was a significant shift in the C–V curve even after 30 min of BTS. Further these test structures were examined for leakage current density (j{sub L}) at same BTS

  5. Speleological study of the cavern of the Ecce homo hill, in the municipality of Chimichagua, Cesar

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Frank David Lascarro-Navarro

    2015-06-01

    Full Text Available In the municipality of Chimichagua, Cesar, there is a system of natural caves associated with carbonate sedimentary rocks, which have suffered chemical dissolution and mechanical erosion generating exokarstic and endokarstic processes, which explain the geochemical and morphological phenomena that have given rise to these cavities. This study presents the results of a speleological work performed to the cavern of the Eccehomo Hill, located in the municipality of Chimichagua department of Cesar, concluding that the lithostratigraphic units outside and inside of the cavities are micritic and micritic limestones with fossils that according to the classification of Folk (1974, belong to the Formation Aguas Blancas, of the Cogollo Group. The cavities possess throughout their extension, variety of speleothems, endokarstic process products such as stalactites, moonmilk, castings, flags, sawtooth, found in the walls and ceiling.

  6. Analisa Unjuk Kerja Mobile Based Tranceiver Station untuk Kestabilan Infrastruktur Sistem Komunikasi Seluler

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Melvi .

    2014-04-01

    Full Text Available The stability of the telecommunications system infrastructure, particularly in the area experienced disastrous, should be restored as soon as possible to recover communication services. One solution for the recovery is by implementing a mobile Base Transceiver Station (BTS, which can be installed easily. In this work, an analysis of Arrow type Combat mobile BTS is conducted in the area of Terbanggi Agung, Central Lampung. The performance measurement and data analysis are performed on the three sectors of the cell coverage. The Received Total Wideband Power (RTWP, Call Completion Success Rate-Packet Switched (CCSR-PS and Call Completion Success RateCircuit Switched (CCSR-CS are taken at regular intervals (per hour for 24 hours, based on the standard Key Performance Indicator (KPI of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU. The results showed that the average value of RTWP on each sector is 105 dB, while the value of CCSR-PS and CCSR-CS are above 95%. Moreover, the measured value of RTWP are less than the standard, which is assumed due to interference from neighbour BTS uplink frequency, despite the possibility of interference was small. In overall, the RTWP values, the CCSR-PS and CCSR-CS meet the standards of the ITU-T Recommendation E.850.Keywords: mobile BTS, received total wideband power (RTWP, call completion success rate- packet switched (CCSRPS, call completion success rate-circuit switched (CCSR-CS

  7. Variation in the diet composition of the white tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yasmit Vasquez

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la variación en la composición botánica de la dieta del venado cola blanca Odocoileus virginianus en la Reserva de la Biosfera Tehuacán-Cuicatlán (RBTC, México. Las especies consumidas se identificaron mediante el análisis microhistológico de epidermis en excretas frescas. Los muestreos se realizaron en épocas húmedas y secas del 2011 al 2013 en San Gabriel Casa Blanca, dominado por bosque tropical seco (BTS y matorral crasicaule, y en San Pedro Chicozapotes, dominado por BTS; ambas localidades del estado de Oaxaca. La dieta anual consistió de 83 especies de 36 familias; 13 especies representaron más de 50 % de la dieta. Las hojas y tallos tiernos de las especies arbóreas y herbáceas fueron las más frecuentemente consumidas. La composición de la dieta no difirió (P > 0.05 entre épocas del año pero sí entre localidades de estudio. La composición de las plantas consumidas por el venado fue similar a lo reportado en otros BTS. Los resultados de este estudio permiten comprender las estrategias ecológicas de forrajeo del herbívoro en los BTS y podrían tener relevancia en las unidades de manejo para la conservación de la vida silvestre (UMAs en la RBTC y en áreas aledañas a la misma.

  8. Norwood with right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery conduit is more effective than Norwood with Blalock-Taussig shunt for hypoplastic left heart syndrome: mathematic modeling of hemodynamics.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mroczek, Tomasz; Małota, Zbigniew; Wójcik, Elżbieta; Nawrat, Zbigniew; Skalski, Janusz

    2011-12-01

    The introduction of right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduit in the Norwood procedure for hypoplastic left heart syndrome resulted in a higher survival rate in many centers. A higher diastolic aortic pressure and a higher mean coronary perfusion pressure were suggested as the hemodynamic advantage of this source of pulmonary blood flow. The main objective of this study was the comparison of two models of Norwood physiology with different types of pulmonary blood flow sources and their hemodynamics. Based on anatomic details obtained from echocardiographic assessment and angiographic studies, two three-dimensional computer models of post-Norwood physiology were developed. The finite-element method was applied for computational hemodynamic simulations. Norwood physiology with RV-PA 5-mm conduit and Blalock-Taussig shunt (BTS) 3.5-mm shunt were compared. Right ventricle work, wall stress, flow velocity, shear rate stress, energy loss and turbulence eddy dissipation were analyzed in both models. The total work of the right ventricle after Norwood procedure with the 5-mm RV-PA conduit was lower in comparison to the 3.5-mm BTS while establishing an identical systemic blood flow. The Qp/Qs ratio was higher in the BTS group. Hemodynamic performance after Norwood with the RV-PA conduit is more effective than after Norwood with BTS. Computer simulations of complicated hemodynamics after the Norwood procedure could be helpful in establishing optimal post-Norwood physiology. Copyright © 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. ImBuild: Impact of building energy efficiency programs

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Scott, M.J.; Hostick, D.J.; Belzer, D.B.

    1998-04-01

    As part of measuring the impact of government programs on improving the energy efficiency of the Nation`s building stock, the Department of Energy Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs (BTS) is interested in assessing the economic impacts of its portfolio of programs, specifically the potential impact on national employment and income. The special-purpose version of the IMPLAN model used in this study is called ImBuild. In comparison with simple economic multiplier approaches, such as Department of Commerce RIMS 2 system, ImBuild allows for more complete and automated analysis of the economic impacts of energy efficiency investments in buildings. ImBuild is also easier to use than existing macroeconomic simulation models. The authors conducted an analysis of three sample BTS energy programs: the residential generator-absorber heat exchange gas heat pump (GAX heat pump), the low power sulfur lamp (LPSL) in residential and commercial applications, and the Building America program. The GAX heat pump would address the market for the high-efficiency residential combined heating and cooling systems. The LPSL would replace some highly efficient fluorescent commercial lighting. Building America seeks to improve the energy efficiency of new factory-built, modular, manufactured, and small-volume, site-built homes through use of systems engineering concepts and early incorporation of new products and processes, and by increasing the demand for more energy-efficient homes. The authors analyze a scenario for market penetration of each of these technologies devised for BTS programs reported in the BTS GPRA Metrics Estimates, FY99 Budget Request, December 19, 1997. 46 figs., 4 tabs.

  10. Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation exposure inside the metro tube infrastructure in Warszawa.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gryz, Krzysztof; Karpowicz, Jolanta

    2015-09-01

    Antennas from various wireless communications systems [e.g. mobile phones base transceiver stations (BTS) and handsets used by passengers, public Internet access, staff radiophone transmitters used between engine-drivers and traffic operators] emitting radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) are used inside underground metro public transportation. Frequency-selective exposimetric investigations of RF-EMR exposure inside the metro infrastructure in Warsaw (inside metro cars passing between stations and on platforms) were performed. The statistical parameters of exposure to the E-field were analyzed for each frequency range and for a total value (representing the wide-band result of measurements of complex exposure). The recorded exposimetric profiles showed the dominant RF-EMR sources: handsets and BTS of mobile communication systems (GSM 900 and UMTS 2100) and local wireless Internet access (WiFi 2G). Investigations showed that the GSM 900 system is the dominant source of exposure - BTS (incessantly active) on platforms, and handsets - used by passengers present nearby during the tube drive. The recorded E-field varies between sources (for BTS were: medians - 0.22 V/m and 75th percentile - 0.37 V/m; and for handsets: medians - 0.28 V/m and 75th percentile - 0.47 V/m). Maximum levels (peaks) of exposure recorded from mobile handsets exceeded 10 V/m (upper limit of used exposimeters). Broadband measurements of E-field, including the dominant signal emitted by staff radiophones (151 MHz), showed that the level of this exposure of engine-drivers does not exceed 2.5 V/m.

  11. Hospital food service: a comparative analysis of two foodservice systems at a Danish Hospital

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Justesen, Lise; René, Michael; Kristensen, Marianne Boll

    2016-01-01

    meals from BTS and the dietary intake was measured. After implementation of CCP on the wards, dietary intake was measured on 56 patients. Intake at mealtimes was assessed through a visual portion size assessment method and intake in-between meals was measured using a self-reported dietary record......% of the protein requirements on CCP compared to 33 % on BTS (p=0,216). Conclusions A new foodservice system (CCP) which increases availability and choice of food 24/7 does not show a significant improvement of energy and protein intake in hospitalized patients and patients at nutritional risk. However, further...

  12. Optimasi Jangkauan Jaringan 4G Menggunakan Algoritma Genetika

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Garsinia Ely Riani

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available Kemampuan dan jangkauan 4G yang lebih luas daripada teknologi generasi sebelumnya perlu dimaksimalkan. Hal ini mengingat antusiasme pengguna layanan selular dalam menyambut kehadiran teknologi internet cepat ini. Optimasi yang dilakukan memperhatikan luas area, kerapatan pengguna internet dan posisi Base Transceiver Station (BTS. Penelitian ini mengusulkan algoritma genetika sebagai algoritma optimasi yang sering digunakan untuk menyelesaikan berbagai permasalahan kompleks. Optimasi dilakukan untuk memaksimalkan jangkauan 4G  secara efektif dan efisien dari sisi penyedia (provider. Serangkaian uji coba menunjukkan bahwa algoritma genetika mampu memberikan solusi yang cukup baik untuk penentuan posisi BTS dalam permasalahan jangkauan pelanggan.

  13. Spectrum Sensing in relation to Distributed Antenna System for Coverage Predictions

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Kumar, Ambuj; Mihovska, Albena D.; Prasad, Ramjee

    2014-01-01

    Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) is one of the most promising ways of network deployment now-a-days. Mostly it is used in indoor environment for shopping areas and office locations. Here the Outdoor application of DAS, where multiple service providers can install their Base Transceiver Station...... (BTS)/Nodes at one location known as BTS hotel and the antennas are distributed all over target area by fiber optic network, is discussed. The very concept of splitting Base Station (BS) from its antenna system and putting it at one location (BS Hotel) and distributing antenna as nodes (Remote Unit...

  14. An analysis of buildings-related energy use in manufacturing

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Niefer, M.J.; Ashton, W.B.

    1997-04-01

    This report presents research by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to develop improved estimates of buildings-related energy use in US manufacturing facilities. The research was supported by the Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs (BTS), Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), US Department of Energy (DOE). The research scope includes only space conditioning and lighting end uses. In addition, this study also estimates the energy savings potential for application of selected commercial buildings technologies being developed by the BTS office to manufacturing and other industrial process facilities. 17 refs., 2 figs., 19 tabs.

  15. BTS guide to good statistical practice

    Science.gov (United States)

    2002-09-01

    Quality of data has many faces. Primarily, it has to be relevant to its users. Relevance is an outcome that is achieved through a series of steps starting with a planning process that link user needs to data requirements. It continues through acquisi...

  16. Occurrence and fate of benzotriazoles UV filters in a typical residential wastewater treatment plant in Harbin, China

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhao, Xue; Zhang, Zi-Feng; Xu, Lei; Liu, Li-Yan; Song, Wei-Wei; Zhu, Fu-Jie; Li, Yi-Fan; Ma, Wan-Li

    2017-01-01

    Benzotriazoles (BTs) UV filters are widely used as ultraviolet absorbents for our daily products, which received increasing attention in the past decades. Residential wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is both an important sink for wastewater and a key pollution source for receiving water for these chemicals. In this study, pretreatment and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis method were developed to determine the occurrence and fate of 9 BTs UV filters in wastewater and sludge from the WWTP with anaerobic-oxic treatment process (A/O) and biological aerated filter treatment process (BAF). Totally, 81 wastewater samples and 11 sludge samples were collected in four seasons. In wastewater, UV-326 and UV-329 were frequently detected, while the highest mean concentrations were detected for UV-234 and UV-329. The concentrations were in the range of BTs UV filters was >85% in A/O process and 60–77% in BAF process except for UV-350, which was more difficult to remove with lower removal efficiencies of 33.3% for both A/O and BAF. All the target chemicals except for UV-320 were detected in sludge samples with the mean concentration ranging from 0.90 ng/g to 303.39 ng/g. There was no significant difference with concentrations and removal efficiency among different seasons. Higher detection frequency and concentration of BTs UV filters in downstream of the receiving water system indicated the contribution of effluent of the WWTP. Compared with other rivers, the lower concentrations in surface water in the Songhua River indicated light pollution status with of BTs UV filters. - Highlights: • UV-234 and UV-329 were the predominated compounds in residential wastewater. • The A/O treatment process had higher removal effect than the BAF treatment process. • Removal efficiency of UV filters was not significantly influenced by season changes. • Effluent from the WWTP was not the

  17. Occurrence and fate of benzotriazoles UV filters in a typical residential wastewater treatment plant in Harbin, China.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhao, Xue; Zhang, Zi-Feng; Xu, Lei; Liu, Li-Yan; Song, Wei-Wei; Zhu, Fu-Jie; Li, Yi-Fan; Ma, Wan-Li

    2017-08-01

    Benzotriazoles (BTs) UV filters are widely used as ultraviolet absorbents for our daily products, which received increasing attention in the past decades. Residential wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is both an important sink for wastewater and a key pollution source for receiving water for these chemicals. In this study, pretreatment and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis method were developed to determine the occurrence and fate of 9 BTs UV filters in wastewater and sludge from the WWTP with anaerobic-oxic treatment process (A/O) and biological aerated filter treatment process (BAF). Totally, 81 wastewater samples and 11 sludge samples were collected in four seasons. In wastewater, UV-326 and UV-329 were frequently detected, while the highest mean concentrations were detected for UV-234 and UV-329. The concentrations were in the range of UV filters was >85% in A/O process and 60-77% in BAF process except for UV-350, which was more difficult to remove with lower removal efficiencies of 33.3% for both A/O and BAF. All the target chemicals except for UV-320 were detected in sludge samples with the mean concentration ranging from 0.90 ng/g to 303.39 ng/g. There was no significant difference with concentrations and removal efficiency among different seasons. Higher detection frequency and concentration of BTs UV filters in downstream of the receiving water system indicated the contribution of effluent of the WWTP. Compared with other rivers, the lower concentrations in surface water in the Songhua River indicated light pollution status with of BTs UV filters. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Health-related quality of life is related to COPD disease severity

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rönmark Eva

    2005-09-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between health-related quality of life (HRQL and disease severity using lung function measures. Methods A survey was performed in subjects with COPD in Sweden. 168 subjects (70 women, mean age 64.3 years completed the generic HRQL questionnaire, the Short Form 36 (SF-36, the disease-specific HRQL questionnaire; the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ, and the utility measure, the EQ-5D. The subjects were divided into four severity groups according to FEV1 per cent of predicted normal using two clinical guidelines: GOLD and BTS. Age, gender, smoking status and socio-economic group were regarded as confounders. Results The COPD severity grades affected the SGRQ Total scores, varying from 25 to 53 (GOLD p = 0.0005 and from 25 to 45 (BTS p = 0.0023. The scores for SF-36 Physical were significantly associated with COPD severity (GOLD p = 0.0059, BTS p = 0.032. No significant association were noticed for the SF-36, Mental Component Summary scores and COPD severity. Scores for EQ-5D VAS varied from 73 to 37 (GOLD I-IV p = 0.0001 and from 73 to 50 (BTS 0-III p = 0.0007. The SGRQ Total score was significant between age groups (p = 0.0047. No significant differences in HRQL with regard to gender, smoking status or socio-economic group were noticed. Conclusion The results show that HRQL in COPD deteriorates with disease severity and with age. These data show a relationship between HRQL and disease severity obtained by lung function.

  19. Efficacy of a Novel Narrow Knife with Water Jet Function for Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yoshida, Naohisa; Toyonaga, Takashi; Murakami, Takaaki; Hirose, Ryohei; Ogiso, Kiyoshi; Inada, Yutaka; Rani, Rafiz Abdul; Naito, Yuji; Kishimoto, Mitsuo; Ohara, Yoshiko; Azuma, Takeshi; Itoh, Yoshito

    2017-01-01

    With respect to the knife's design in colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), diameter, water jet function, and electric power are important because these relate to efficient dissection. In this study, we analyzed a novel, narrow ball tip-typed ESD knife with water jet function (Flush knife BT-S, diameter: 2.2 mm, length: 2000 mm, Fujifilm Co., Tokyo, Japan) compared to a regular diameter knife (Flush knife BT, diameter: 2.6 mm, length: 1800 mm). In laboratory and clinical research, electric power, knife insertion time, vacuum/suction amount with knife in the endoscopic channel, and water jet function were analyzed. We used a knife 2.0 mm long for BT-S and BT knives. The BT-S showed faster mean knife insertion time (sec) and better vacuum amount (ml/min) compared to the BT (insertion time: 16.7 versus 21.6, p knife insertion. Suction under knife happened 59% (23/39) and suction of fluid could be done in 100%. Our study showed that the narrow knife allows significantly faster knife insertion, better vacuum function, and effective clinical results.

  20. Cumplimiento de las recomendaciones en rehabilitación respiratoria de la British Thoracic Society en pacientes con fibrosis quística: estudio en fisioterapeutas colombianos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Diana Duran-Palomino

    2013-06-01

    Full Text Available Con el objetivo de evaluar el cumplimiento de las recomendaciones en rehabilitación respiratoria (ReR, planteadas por la British Thoracic Society (BTS en pacientes con fibrosis quística (FQ se realizó un estudio transversal entre 224 fisioterapeutas colombianos para identificar el tipo de intervenciones y las características de los programas de ReR como componentes del cumplimiento de las guías clínicas basadas en la evidencia de la BTS. Un elevado porcentaje de profesionales respondieron “realizar siempre” intervenciones con alto nivel de evidencia (grado A como: técnicas de higiene bronquial (54,0% y ciclo activo de la respiración (35,3%. Se observaron también intervenciones con menor grado de recomendación (grado D como: uso de solución salina hipertónica y broncodilatador para evitar el broncoespasmo (33,9%, y técnicas de terapia manual o ejercicios de movilidad torácica y resistida (38,4% para corregir problemas posturales y respiratorios. En conclusión, se encontraron importantes discrepancias con las intervenciones y componentes sugeridos por BTS en pacientes con FQ.

  1. Influência da adição de iodeto de potássio e citrato de sódio na qualidade do sêmen de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus - Holmberg, 1887 The effects of potassium iodide and sodium citrate on semen quality of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alexandre Nízio Maria

    2004-02-01

    Full Text Available Atualmente, tem-se dado maior atenção ao desenvolvimento de tecnologias para estocagem de sêmen de peixes em curto prazo, por dias ou semanas, utilizando diluentes de sêmen que não ativem a motilidade espermática. Essa técnica é indicada em piscicultura para facilitar a reprodução artificial ou aumentar sua eficiência. Conduziu-se este trabalho com o objetivo de verificar o efeito do diluidor BTS (Beltsville Thawing Solution - MINITUB® na qualidade do sêmen de pacu, após a coleta, enriquecido com iodeto de potássio e com citrato de sódio. Foram utilizados seis reprodutores de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus submetidos à indução hormonal e liberação dos gametas, manualmente. O sêmen coletado de cada macho foi dividido em três frações, as quais receberam diluição (1:3 com o diluidor 1 (BTS 5% + iodeto de potássio 0,16%, diluidor 2 (BTS 5% + citrato de sódio 1,28% e uma fração não diluída (controle. A ativação espermática foi realizada com água destilada, e, a seguir, foram avaliadas as taxas e duração da motilidade espermática, cujos valores médios respectivos foram de 95,00 ± 3,16% e 486,83 ± 314,55 segundos para o sêmen in natura, 80,00 ± 9,49% e 221,50 ± 207,89 segundos para o sêmen com o diluidor 1 e 80,00 ± 11,40% e 320,66 ± 181,14 segundos para o sêmen no diluidor 2. Em seguida, foram coletadas amostras para a avaliação da concentração espermática, que obteve um valor médio de 13,89 ± 1,26 x 10(9/mL. Pelas análises estatísticas, verificou-se que não houve diferença significativa na duração da motilidade (P>0,05 entre o sêmen “in natura” e os diluidores 1 e 2. A motilidade espermática foi estatisticamente melhor (PCurrently, it has been given a special attention to developing technologies for short-term storage of fish semen, for a few days to weeks, using extenders of semen that do not activate the sperm motility. The short-term storage technique is indicated for fish culture

  2. Comparison of Sn-doped and nonstoichiometric vertical-Bridgman-grown crystals of the topological insulator Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2}Se

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kushwaha, S. K., E-mail: kushwaha@princeton.edu; Gibson, Q. D.; Cava, R. J. [Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544 (United States); Xiong, J.; Ong, N. P. [Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544 (United States); Pletikosic, I. [Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544 (United States); Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science Department, Brookhaven National Lab, Upton, New York 11973 (United States); Weber, A. P. [National Synchrotron Light Source, Brookhaven National Lab, Upton, New York 11973 (United States); Fedorov, A. V. [Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); Valla, T. [Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science Department, Brookhaven National Lab, Upton, New York 11973 (United States)

    2014-04-14

    A comparative study of the properties of topological insulator Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2}Se (BTS) crystals grown by the vertical Bridgeman method is described. Two defect mechanisms that create acceptor impurities to compensate for the native n-type carriers are compared: Bi excess, and light Sn doping. Both methods yield low carrier concentrations and an n-p crossover over the length of the grown crystal boules, but lower carrier concentrations and higher resistivities are obtained for the Sn-doped crystals, which reach carrier concentrations as low as 8 × 10{sup 14} cm{sup −3}. Further, the temperature dependent resistivities for the Sn-doped crystals display strongly activated behavior at high temperatures, with a characteristic energy of half the bulk band gap. The (001) cleaved Sn-doped BTS crystals display high quality Shubnikov de Haas (SdH) quantum oscillations due to the topological surface state electrons. Angle resolved photoelectron spectroscopy (ARPES) characterization shows that the Fermi energy (E{sub F}) for the Sn-doped crystals falls cleanly in the surface states with no interference from the bulk bands, which the Dirac point for the surface states lies approximately 60 meV below the top of the bulk valence band maximum, and allows for a determination of the bulk and surface state carrier concentrations as a function of Energy near E{sub F}. Electronic structure calculations that compare Bi excess and Sn dopants in BTS demonstrate that Sn acts as a special impurity, with a localized impurity band that acts as a charge buffer occurring inside the bulk band gap. We propose that the special resonant level character of Sn in BTS gives rise to the exceptionally low carrier concentrations and activated resistivities observed.

  3. Sistem Pakar Troubleshooting Base Transceiver Station untuk Efisiensi Kinerja Teknisi (Studi Kasus: PT. KMS TELECOM PEKANBARU

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yogi Yunefri

    2017-05-01

    Full Text Available AbstrakDalam suatu jaringan telekomunikasi, Base Transceiver Station (BTS sangatlah penting, karena menghubungkan jaringan suatu operator telekomunikasi seluler dengan pelanggannya. Keterbatasan tenaga ahli yang berpengalaman dalam maintanance BTS akan menghambat pelayanan operator yang optimal kepada pelanggan, sehingga diperlukanlah suatu sistem pakar yang dapat menggantikan kemampuan dari tenaga ahli dalam melakukan penanganan troubleshooting BTS. Desain program troubleshooting BTS pada penelitian ini terdiri dari 3 bagian utama yaitu bagian pertama  user interface dimana user memilih jenis alarm yang muncul kemudian user dapat melakukan diagnosa kerusakan berdasarkan alarm yang muncul; bagian kedua admin interface, pada bagian ini diperuntukan bagi admin untuk menginputkan pengetahuan (knowledge, aturan (rule, selain itu digunakan untuk mengatur database; bagian ketiga pakar, pada bagian ini diperuntukkan bagi pakar untuk menginputkan pengetahuan (knowledge, user yang login sebagai pakar memiliki hak akses penuh untuk menginputkan basis pengetahuan. Kata kunci: Base Transceiver Station, Sistem Pakar, Troubleshooting Abstract Abstract prepared well, allowing the reader to identify the basic content of a document quickly and accurately, to determine its relevance to their interests, and thus they can decide whether to read the document as a whole or not. Abstracts should be informative and really clear, providing a clear statement of what the existing problems, approaches or solutions proposed, and shows the main findings and conclusions. The length of abstract should be 100 to 150 words. Abstracts must be written in the form of passive / past. Standard nomenclature should be used and abbreviations should be avoided. There was no citation in the abstract. List of key words provides an opportunity to add keywords, which are used to layaan's index pengabstrakan right and, in addition to the existing ones in the title. The use of the right

  4. Comparison of Sn-doped and nonstoichiometric vertical-Bridgman-grown crystals of the topological insulator Bi2Te2Se

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kushwaha, S. K.; Gibson, Q. D.; Cava, R. J.; Xiong, J.; Ong, N. P.; Pletikosic, I.; Weber, A. P.; Fedorov, A. V.; Valla, T.

    2014-01-01

    A comparative study of the properties of topological insulator Bi 2 Te 2 Se (BTS) crystals grown by the vertical Bridgeman method is described. Two defect mechanisms that create acceptor impurities to compensate for the native n-type carriers are compared: Bi excess, and light Sn doping. Both methods yield low carrier concentrations and an n-p crossover over the length of the grown crystal boules, but lower carrier concentrations and higher resistivities are obtained for the Sn-doped crystals, which reach carrier concentrations as low as 8 × 10 14  cm −3 . Further, the temperature dependent resistivities for the Sn-doped crystals display strongly activated behavior at high temperatures, with a characteristic energy of half the bulk band gap. The (001) cleaved Sn-doped BTS crystals display high quality Shubnikov de Haas (SdH) quantum oscillations due to the topological surface state electrons. Angle resolved photoelectron spectroscopy (ARPES) characterization shows that the Fermi energy (E F ) for the Sn-doped crystals falls cleanly in the surface states with no interference from the bulk bands, which the Dirac point for the surface states lies approximately 60 meV below the top of the bulk valence band maximum, and allows for a determination of the bulk and surface state carrier concentrations as a function of Energy near E F . Electronic structure calculations that compare Bi excess and Sn dopants in BTS demonstrate that Sn acts as a special impurity, with a localized impurity band that acts as a charge buffer occurring inside the bulk band gap. We propose that the special resonant level character of Sn in BTS gives rise to the exceptionally low carrier concentrations and activated resistivities observed

  5. Exploiting Phase Diversity for CDMA2000 1X Smart Antenna Base Stations

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Seongdo; Hyeon, Seungheon; Choi, Seungwon

    2004-12-01

    A performance analysis of an access channel decoder is presented which exploits a diversity gain due to the independent magnitude of received signals energy at each of the antenna elements of a smart-antenna base-station transceiver subsystem (BTS) operating in CDMA2000 1X signal environment. The objective is to enhance the data retrieval at cellsite during the access period, for which the optimal weight vector of the smart antenna BTS is not available. It is shown in this paper that the access channel decoder proposed in this paper outperforms the conventional one, which is based on a single antenna channel in terms of detection probability of access probe, access channel failure probability, and Walsh-code demodulation performance.

  6. Radioisotope assessment of heart damage in hypertransfused thalassaemic patients

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Scopinaro, F.; Banci, M.; Vania, A.; Tavolaro, R.; Schillaci, O.; Tisei, A.; Werner, B.; Digilio, G.; Ventriglia, F.; Colloridi, V.

    1993-01-01

    Twenty-five thalassaemic patients treated with repeated blood transfusion (BT) and intensive iron removal therapy were studied by echocardiography and rest/stress equilibrium gated radionuclide angiocardiography (EGNA). Stress left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) showed an important negative correlation with number of BTs (r=-0.75). Abnormal values of stress LVEF were measured after 200 BTs: these data demonstrate the effectiveness of stress LVEF in the follow-up of patients who have undergone repeated BT and the clinical importance of intensive chelation therapy. Peak filling rate did not show diagnostic value in the early detection of iron cardiotoxicity. However, its inverse correlation with BT (r=-60) indicates that iron overload depresses the diastolic parameters. (orig.)

  7. Radioisotope assessment of heart damage in hypertransfused thalassaemic patients

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Scopinaro, F. (Section of Nuclear Medicine, Dept. of Experimental Medicine, Univ. ' ' La Sapienza' ' , Rome (Italy)); Banci, M. (Section of Nuclear Medicine, Dept. of Experimental Medicine, Univ. ' ' La Sapienza' ' , Rome (Italy)); Vania, A. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy)); Tavolaro, R. (Section of Nuclear Medicine, Dept. of Experimental Medicine, Univ. ' ' La Sapienza' ' , Rome (Italy)); Schillaci, O. (Section of Nuclear Medicine, Dept. of Experimental Medicine, Univ. ' ' La Sapienza' ' , Rome (Italy)); Tisei, A. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy)); Werner, B. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy)); Digilio, G. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy)); Ventriglia, F. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy)); Colloridi, V. (Institute of Pediatric Clinical Medicine, Univ. Rome-1 (Italy))

    1993-07-01

    Twenty-five thalassaemic patients treated with repeated blood transfusion (BT) and intensive iron removal therapy were studied by echocardiography and rest/stress equilibrium gated radionuclide angiocardiography (EGNA). Stress left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) showed an important negative correlation with number of BTs (r=-0.75). Abnormal values of stress LVEF were measured after 200 BTs: these data demonstrate the effectiveness of stress LVEF in the follow-up of patients who have undergone repeated BT and the clinical importance of intensive chelation therapy. Peak filling rate did not show diagnostic value in the early detection of iron cardiotoxicity. However, its inverse correlation with BT (r=-60) indicates that iron overload depresses the diastolic parameters. (orig.)

  8. GTA Welding Research and Development for Plutonium Containment

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sessions, C.E.

    2002-01-01

    This paper discusses the development of two welding systems that are used to contain actinide metals and oxides for long term storage. The systems are termed the bagless transfer system (BTS) and the outer container welder (OCW) system. The BTS is so named because it permits the containment of actinides without a polymeric package (i.e., bag). The development of these two systems was directed by Department of Energy Standard 3013, hereafter referred to as DOE 3013. This document defines the product and container requirements. In addition, it references national codes and standards for leak rates, ANSI N14.5, and design, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII (BandPVC)

  9. Adaptive CGFs Based on Grammatical Evolution

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jian Yao

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Computer generated forces (CGFs play blue or red units in military simulations for personnel training and weapon systems evaluation. Traditionally, CGFs are controlled through rule-based scripts, despite the doctrine-driven behavior of CGFs being rigid and predictable. Furthermore, CGFs are often tricked by trainees or fail to adapt to new situations (e.g., changes in battle field or update in weapon systems, and, in most cases, the subject matter experts (SMEs review and redesign a large amount of CGF scripts for new scenarios or training tasks, which is both challenging and time-consuming. In an effort to overcome these limitations and move toward more true-to-life scenarios, a study using grammatical evolution (GE to generate adaptive CGFs for air combat simulations has been conducted. Expert knowledge is encoded with modular behavior trees (BTs for compatibility with the operators in genetic algorithm (GA. GE maps CGFs, represented with BTs to binary strings, and uses GA to evolve CGFs with performance feedback from the simulation. Beyond-visual-range air combat experiments between adaptive CGFs and nonadaptive baseline CGFs have been conducted to observe and study this evolutionary process. The experimental results show that the GE is an efficient framework to generate CGFs in BTs formalism and evolve CGFs via GA.

  10. Unjuk Kerja Jaringan Seluler 2G dan 3G PT. XL Axiata di Area Jawa Tengah Bagian Utara setelah Proyek Swap dan Modernisasi

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Eva Yovita Dwi Utami

    2015-04-01

    Full Text Available The increasing number of customers and the need for reliable communication require the availability of coverage, sufficient capacity and good quality of mobile communications networks. New BTS implementation is required to cover a wider area with good network quality. However, it often requires high cost and long time to get permission from the government and local residents. Swap and Modernization Project is a project that swap the previous 3G equipment using BTS 3900 Huawei with Ericsson RBS 6000 and modernize the 2G RBS 2000 to RBS 6000 and then carry out parameter settings to optimize the network. In this paper, we report the results of mobile network performance after Swap and Modernization projects had been done in terms of the signal strength improvements, which are showed by Rx Level, RSCP and CDD Dump parameters. The study was conducted in PT XL Axiata Northern Areas of Central Java with D5 cluster as a sample. The results show improvement of Rx Level that increased by 89.93 %, and RSCP value increased by 58.36 %. The swap and modernization of the BTS and parameter settings are able to improve CDD Dump parameters. These improvements are able to expand the coverage area of cluster D5 sites.

  11. Composition and source of butyltins in sediments of Kaohsiung Harbor, Taiwan

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dong, Cheng-Di; Chen, Chih-Feng; Chen, Chiu-Wen

    2015-04-01

    Fifty-eight sediment samples were collected from the Kaohsiung Harbor (Taiwan) for analyses of monobutyltin (MBT), dibutyltin (DBT) and tributyltin (TBT), using gas chromatography/flame photometric detector (GC/FPD). The concentration of total butyltins (ΣBTs), sum of MBT, DBT, and TBT, varied from 3.9 to 158.5 ng Sn/g dw in sediment samples with TBT being the major component of the sediment samples, except for the vicinity of the Love River mouth where MBT was the most abundant BT compound (a proportion of over 57%). Based on the BTs concentration, distribution, composition and correlations, the sources of BTs found in harbor sediments are shipping activities, and TBT is the main pollutant; the estuary (i.e. Love River) has been the anthropogenic source of MBT from upstream inputs. Influences of TBT on aquatic organisms are evaluated using the toxicity guidelines proposed by the US EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) and the ACCI (assessment class criterion for imposex) proposed by OSPAR (Oslo and Paris Commission). The evaluation shows that the TBT contained in the sediment at Kaohsiung Harbor is likely to have a negative influence at ACCI class C because gastropods present imposex and TBT levels are above ecotoxicological assessment criteria (EAC) limits.

  12. 77 FR 57641 - Tentative Decision That Certain Canadian-Certified

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-09-18

    ... equivalent determination 102--Transmission Shift Position CMVSS 102--Transmission Sequence, Starter Interlock... guidelines may be accessed at http://www.bts.gov/programs/statistical_policy_and_research/data_quality...

  13. 14 CFR 298.63 - Reporting of aircraft operating expenses and related statistics by small certificated air carriers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ..., which is available from the BTS' Office of Airline Information. In the space provided for “Aircraft Code... include traffic solicitor salaries, traffic commissions, passenger food expense, traffic liability...

  14. Border Crossing Entry Data

    Data.gov (United States)

    Department of Transportation — The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Border Crossing/Entry Data provides summary statistics for inbound crossings at the U.S.-Canadian and the U.S.-Mexican...

  15. Border Crossing/Entry Data

    Data.gov (United States)

    Department of Transportation — The dataset is known as “Border Crossing/Entry Data.” The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Border Crossing/Entry Data provides summary statistics to the...

  16. Border Crossing/Entry Data - Border Crossing/Entry Data Time Series tool

    Data.gov (United States)

    Department of Transportation — The dataset is known as “Border Crossing/Entry Data.” The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Border Crossing/Entry Data provides summary statistics to the...

  17. Field Trial on a Rack-mounted DC Power Supply System with 80-Ah Lithium-ion Batteries

    Science.gov (United States)

    Matsushima, Toshio

    Using an industrial lithium-ion battery that has higher energy density than conventional valve-regulated lead-acid batteries, a rack-mounted DC-power-supply system was assembled and tested at a base transceiver station (BTS) offering actual services. A nominal output voltage and maximum output current of the system is 53.5V and 20A, respectively. An 80-Ah lithium-ion battery composed of 13 cells connected in series was applied in the system and maintained in a floating charge method. The DC-power-supply system was installed in a 19-inch power rack in the telecommunications equipment box at BTS. The characteristics of the 80Ah lithium-ion battery, specifications of the DC-power-supply system and field-test results were shown in this paper.

  18. Exploiting Phase Diversity for CDMA2000 1X Smart Antenna Base Stations

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hyeon Seungheon

    2004-01-01

    Full Text Available A performance analysis of an access channel decoder is presented which exploits a diversity gain due to the independent magnitude of received signals energy at each of the antenna elements of a smart-antenna base-station transceiver subsystem (BTS operating in CDMA2000 1X signal environment. The objective is to enhance the data retrieval at cellsite during the access period, for which the optimal weight vector of the smart antenna BTS is not available. It is shown in this paper that the access channel decoder proposed in this paper outperforms the conventional one, which is based on a single antenna channel in terms of detection probability of access probe, access channel failure probability, and Walsh-code demodulation performance.

  19. RANCANG BANGUN APLIKASI PEMETAAN COVERAGE AREA BERBASIS WEB RESPONSIVE SEBAGAI ALAT SIMULASI PERENCANAAN PEMBANGUNAN TOWER TELEKOMUNIKASI

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Bayu Andika Virgunzena

    2014-12-01

    Full Text Available Net Act Planner digunakan dalam perencanaan pembangunan BTS, namun kurang efisien jika dijadikansebagai media pembelajaran karena berlisensi/berbayar. Penelitian ini membahas implementasi library Google MapsAPI sebagai aplikasi pemetaan perencanaan coverage area BTS dan implementasinya sebagai media pembelajaran.Hasil pengujian menunjukkan hasil perhitungan aplikasi sama dengan hasil perhitungan manual, namun berbeda0,05% dari data hasil perencanaan Net Act Planner v6.00 karena perbedaan parameter yang digunakan aplikasidalam perhitungan. Sedangkan hasil perbandingan dengan data hasil drive test diperoleh 89,55% titik berada didalam hasil perencanaan dan 10,45% berada di luar perencanaan yang berarti hasil perencanaan aplikasi masih dapatditerima untuk direalisasikan. Penelitian ini juga menghasilkan aplikasi yang menyediakan fitur untuk memodifikasiformula perhitungan dan 4 modul sebagai media pembelajaran.

  20. Linking behavioural syndromes and cognition: a behavioural ecology perspective.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sih, Andrew; Del Giudice, Marco

    2012-10-05

    With the exception of a few model species, individual differences in cognition remain relatively unstudied in non-human animals. One intriguing possibility is that variation in cognition is functionally related to variation in personality. Here, we review some examples and present hypotheses on relationships between personality (or behavioural syndromes) and individual differences in cognitive style. Our hypotheses are based largely on a connection between fast-slow behavioural types (BTs; e.g. boldness, aggressiveness, exploration tendency) and cognitive speed-accuracy trade-offs. We also discuss connections between BTs, cognition and ecologically important aspects of decision-making, including sampling, impulsivity, risk sensitivity and choosiness. Finally, we introduce the notion of cognition syndromes, and apply ideas from theories on adaptive behavioural syndromes to generate predictions on cognition syndromes.

  1. Evaluadores de artículos Caldasia Vol. 16 Nros. 76-79

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Revista Caldasia

    1991-12-01

    Full Text Available Acero, Arturo / Acosta Alfredo / Aguirre, C. Jaime / Álvarez, Humberto / Andrade, Gonzalo / Arévalo, Isabel / Barrera, Eduardo / Barriga, Ernesto / Bernal, Amanda / Bernal, Rodrigo / Bulla, / M. Germán / Cadena, Albert  / Cala, Plutarco / Campos Martha / Cogollo, Álvaro / Cuadros, Tomas Chamorro, Clara / Churchill, Steven Díaz, Santiago / Duarte, Martha / Dueñas;Hernando / Duque, Santiago / Fernandez, Jose L. / Forero, Eduardo / Franco, Esperanza / Franco, Pilar / Fuertes, Javier / Galeano, Gloria / Galvis, Germán / Gaviria, Elizabeth / Gaviria, Santiago / Gómez, Marcela / González, Favio  / Hernández, C. Jorge / Idrobo, Jesús / La Marca, Enrique / Linares, Mauricio / Londoño, Concha / Lynch,John / Lozano, Gustavo / Lozano, Nubia / Mora, O. Luis E. / Muñoz, Paulina / Murillo, María T. / Orozco, Clara I. / Palacio, Pablo / Pineda, Fabio / Pinto, N. María / Rangel, Orlando / Restrepo, Rubén / Reyes, Carmen / Rueda, Vicente / Ruiz, Pedro M. / Samper, Cristian / Smith, Ernesto / Stiles, Gary / Tchecliakova, Nadya / Turbay, Luisa F. / Uribe, Jaime / Zenner, Ingerborg / Zuluaga,  Silvio

  2. BTS Case Study: The Galloway Family Home

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Brandegee Group

    1999-01-01

    Case study of an energy-efficient Habitat for Humanity house that uses 30% less energy than conventional residential construction. The project was part of the Jimmy Carter Work Project in rural Appalachia in 1997

  3. Improvements in BTS estimation of ton-miles

    Science.gov (United States)

    2004-08-01

    Ton-miles (one ton of freight shipped one mile) is the primary physical measure of freight transportation output. This paper describes improved measurements of ton-miles for air, truck, rail, water, and pipeline modes. Each modal measure contains a d...

  4. Railroad Terminals and Stations - INTERMODAL_TERMINAL_NTAD_IN: Intermodal Terminal Facilities in Indiana (Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 1:100,000 Point Shapefile)

    Data.gov (United States)

    NSGIC State | GIS Inventory — BTS metadata states – “The Intermodal Terminal Facilities data set contains geographic data for trailer-on-flatcar (TOFC) and container-on-flatcar (COFC) highway...

  5. National transportation statistics 2011

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-04-01

    Compiled and published by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics : (BTS), National Transportation Statistics presents information on the U.S. transportation system, including : its physical components, safety reco...

  6. National Transportation Statistics 2008

    Science.gov (United States)

    2009-01-08

    Compiled and published by the U.S. Department of Transportations Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), National Transportation Statistics presents information on the U.S. transportation system, including its physical components, safety record...

  7. State Transportation Statistics 2012

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-08-15

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), presents State Transportation Statistics 2012, a statistical profile of transportation ...

  8. National Transportation Statistics 2009

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-21

    Compiled and published by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), National Transportation Statistics presents information on the U.S. transportation system, including its physical components, safety record, ...

  9. State Transportation Statistics 2013

    Science.gov (United States)

    2014-09-19

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of the U.S. Department of Transportations (USDOT) Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), presents State Transportation Statistics 2013, a statistical profile of transportatio...

  10. Rural Airports

    Data.gov (United States)

    Department of Transportation — The Rural Airports database is the list of rural airports compiled annually by BTS for the Treasury Department/IRS. It is used by airlines to assist in establishing...

  11. Case study of a non-destructive treatment method for the remediation of military structures containing polychlorinated biphenyl contaminated paint.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Saitta, Erin K H; Gittings, Michael J; Novaes-Card, Simone; Quinn, Jacqueline; Clausen, Christian; O'Hara, Suzanne; Yestrebsky, Cherie L

    2015-08-01

    Restricted by federal regulations and limited remediation options, buildings contaminated with paint laden with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have high costs associated with the disposal of hazardous materials. As opposed to current remediation methods which are often destructive and a risk to the surrounding environment, this study suggests a non-metal treatment system (NMTS) and a bimetallic treatment system (BTS) as versatile remediation options for painted industrial structures including concrete buildings, and metal machine parts. In this field study, four areas of a discontinued Department of Defense site were treated and monitored over 3 weeks. PCB levels in paint and treatment system samples were analyzed through gas chromatography/electron capture detection (GC-ECD). PCB concentrations were reduced by 95 percent on painted concrete and by 60-97 percent on painted metal with the majority of the PCB removal occurring within the first week of application. Post treatment laboratory studies including the utilization of an activated metal treatment system (AMTS) further degraded PCBs in BTS and NMTS by up to 82 percent and 99 percent, respectively, indicating that a two-step remediation option is viable. These findings demonstrate that the NMTS and BTS can be an effective, nondestructive, remediation process for large painted structures, allowing for the reuse or sale of remediated materials that otherwise may have been disposed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Por um diálogo de saberes entre pescadores artesanais, marisqueiras e o direito ambiental do trabalho

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ingrid Gil Sales Carvalho

    2014-10-01

    Full Text Available O diálogo de saberes entre pescadores artesanais e marisqueiras sobre o direito a um meio ambiente de trabalho saudável se estabelece como um novo processo de reivindicação para as melhorias das condições de trabalho de populações afetadas por problemas ambientais em geral, e especialmente na Baía de Todos os Santos (BTS. As comunidades do entorno da BTS queixam-se ao Ministério Público Estadual dos efeitos danosos à saúde e ao ambiente das indústrias instaladas no Centro Industrial de Aratu e Porto de Aratu. Diversos pesquisadores das áreas de química, toxicologia, oceanografia, biologia e medicina da Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA vêm aprofundando estudos sobre os efeitos da contaminação da BTS em variadas publicações científicas. O objetivo deste artigo é refletir sobre a contribuição desse diálogo na área do direito ambiental do trabalho (DAT no Brasil. A metodologia deste estudo envolveu entrevistas semiestruturada, observação participante, análise documental. Conclui-se que legislação ambientalista/trabalhista do Brasil necessita incluir o diálogo de saberes para garantir o acesso a um meio ambiente de trabalho saudável para pescadores artesanais e marisqueiras.

  13. State transportation statistics 2009

    Science.gov (United States)

    2009-01-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of DOTs Research and : Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), presents State Transportation : Statistics 2009, a statistical profile of transportation in the 50 states and the : District ...

  14. Transportation statistics annual report 2010

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-01-01

    The Transportation Statistics Annual Report (TSAR) presents data and information compiled by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a component of the U.S. Department of Transportations (USDOTs) Research and Innovative Technology Admini...

  15. Transportation statistics annual report 2009

    Science.gov (United States)

    2009-01-01

    The Transportation Statistics Annual Report (TSAR) presents data and information selected by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a component of the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT's) Research and Innovative Technology Administra...

  16. Gclust Server: 148046 [Gclust Server

    Lifescience Database Archive (English)

    Full Text Available 148046 DME_CG33555_62472578 Cluster Sequences - 2645 btsz: bitesize CG33555-PC, iso...nk to cluster sequences Cluster Sequences Link to related sequences - Sequence length 2645 Representative annotation bts

  17. Evaluation of mitogen-induced responses in marine mammal and human lymphocytes by in-vitro exposure of butyltins and non-ortho coplanar PCBs

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nakata, H.; Sakakibara, A.; Kanoh, M.; Kudo, S.; Watanabe, H.; Nagai, N.; Miyazaki, N.; Asano, Y.; Tanabe, S.

    2002-01-01

    Butyltins may affect the immune response in marine mammals. - The effects of exposure to butyltin compounds (BTs: tributyltin; TBT, dibutyltin; DBT and monobutyltin; MBT) and non-ortho coplanar PCBs (IUPAC 77, 126 and 169) on marine mammals and human lymphocyte were evaluated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from Dall's porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), a California sealion (Zalophus californianus), a larga seal (Phoca largha) and humans (Homo sapiens) were exposed at varying concentrations of BTs and coplanar PCBs. Concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated mitogenesis found significantly suppressed (P<0.01) when the cells were exposed at 300 nM (89 ng/ml) of TBT and 330 nM of DBT (77 ng/ml), while MBT showed little cytotoxicity at treatment levels of up to 3600 nM (620 ng/ml). BTs concentrations in the liver of Dall's porpoises from Japanese coastal waters ranged between 81-450 ng/g for TBT and 200-1100 ng/g (wet wt.) for DBTs, which is greater than the cytotoxic levels registered in this study. In contrast, non-ortho coplanar PCBs did not suppress cell proliferation at concentrations of up to 30 nM (10 ng/ml). The residue levels of coplanar PCBs in the blubber of Dall's porpoises were 0.12-1.3 ng/g, which were one order of lower than those levels that do cell proliferation. When cells were exposed to a mixture of TBT/DBTand coplanar PCBs, the proliferation was significantly reduced to 33 nM DBT plus 34 nM CB-77 and 33 nM DBT plus 28 nM CB-169 mixtures, respectively. The investigations relating the contaminant-induced immunosuppression in marine mammals have been focused on persistent organochlorines such as PCBs, pesticides and dioxin compounds. However, this study suggested the possibility of BTs could also pose a serious threat to the immune functions in free-ranging marine mammals and humans

  18. Evaluation of mitogen-induced responses in marine mammal and human lymphocytes by in-vitro exposure of butyltins and non-ortho coplanar PCBs

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nakata, H.; Sakakibara, A.; Kanoh, M.; Kudo, S.; Watanabe, H.; Nagai, N.; Miyazaki, N.; Asano, Y.; Tanabe, S

    2002-12-01

    Butyltins may affect the immune response in marine mammals. - The effects of exposure to butyltin compounds (BTs: tributyltin; TBT, dibutyltin; DBT and monobutyltin; MBT) and non-ortho coplanar PCBs (IUPAC 77, 126 and 169) on marine mammals and human lymphocyte were evaluated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from Dall's porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), a California sealion (Zalophus californianus), a larga seal (Phoca largha) and humans (Homo sapiens) were exposed at varying concentrations of BTs and coplanar PCBs. Concanavalin A (Con A)-stimulated mitogenesis found significantly suppressed (P<0.01) when the cells were exposed at 300 nM (89 ng/ml) of TBT and 330 nM of DBT (77 ng/ml), while MBT showed little cytotoxicity at treatment levels of up to 3600 nM (620 ng/ml). BTs concentrations in the liver of Dall's porpoises from Japanese coastal waters ranged between 81-450 ng/g for TBT and 200-1100 ng/g (wet wt.) for DBTs, which is greater than the cytotoxic levels registered in this study. In contrast, non-ortho coplanar PCBs did not suppress cell proliferation at concentrations of up to 30 nM (10 ng/ml). The residue levels of coplanar PCBs in the blubber of Dall's porpoises were 0.12-1.3 ng/g, which were one order of lower than those levels that do cell proliferation. When cells were exposed to a mixture of TBT/DBTand coplanar PCBs, the proliferation was significantly reduced to 33 nM DBT plus 34 nM CB-77 and 33 nM DBT plus 28 nM CB-169 mixtures, respectively. The investigations relating the contaminant-induced immunosuppression in marine mammals have been focused on persistent organochlorines such as PCBs, pesticides and dioxin compounds. However, this study suggested the possibility of BTs could also pose a serious threat to the immune functions in free-ranging marine mammals and humans.

  19. TU-F-CAMPUS-T-05: Dose Escalation to Biological Tumor Volumes of Prostate Cancer Patients Using Gold Nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jermoumi, M; Ngwa, W [Department of Physics and Applied Physics, Medical Physics Program, University of Massachusetts Lowell (United States); Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Insitute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical, Boston, MA (United States); Sajo, E [Department of Physics and Applied Physics, Medical Physics Program, University of Massachusetts Lowell (United States); Houari, K [Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Insitute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical, Boston, MA (United States)

    2015-06-15

    Purpose: Studies have shown that radiation boosting could help reduce prostate cancer (PCa) recurrence. Biological tumor volumes (BTV) are a high priority for such radiation boosting. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential of radiation boosting of real patient BTVs using gold nanoparticles (GNP) released from gold-loaded brachytherapy spacers (GBS) during brachytherapy. Methods: The BTVs of 12 patients having prostate adenocarcinoma identified with positron emission tomography (PET) and CT scanner using C-11 labeled tracer [11C]acetate were investigated. The initial GNP concentration and time to achieve a dose enhancement effect (DEF) of 2 was simulated using the freely downloadable software RAID APP. The investigations were carried out for low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy sources (BTS) described in AAPM Task Group report 43: Cs-131, I-125, and Pd-103. In first case, we used 7 mg/g and 18 mg/g of GNP initial concentrations to estimate the time needed for released GNP to achieve a DEF of 2 for the different BTS, and compare with clinically relevant treatment times. In second case, we calculated the initial concentration of GNPs needed to achieve a DEF of 2 during the time the BTS would typically deliver 50%, 70% and 90% of the total dose. Results: For an initial concentration of 18 mg/g, when using Cs-131, and Pd-103, a DEF of 2 could only be achieved for BTV of 3.3 cm3 and 1 cm3 respectively. Meanwhile a DEF of 2 could be achieved for all 12 BTVs when using I-125. To achieve a DEF of 2 for all patients using Cs-131 and Pd-103, much higher initial concentrations would have to be used than have been typically employed in pre-clinical studies. Conclusion: The I-125 is the most viable BTS that can be employed with GBS to guide dose painting treatment planning for localized PCa.

  20. Phylogeny of Vibrio vulnificus from the Analysis of the Core-Genome: Implications for Intra-Species Taxonomy

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Francisco J. Roig

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Vibrio vulnificus (Vv is a multi-host pathogenic species currently subdivided into three biotypes (Bts. The three Bts are human-pathogens, but only Bt2 is also a fish-pathogen, an ability that is conferred by a transferable virulence-plasmid (pVvbt2. Here we present a phylogenomic analysis from the core genome of 80 Vv strains belonging to the three Bts recovered from a wide range of geographical and ecological sources. We have identified five well-supported phylogenetic groups or lineages (L. L1 comprises a mixture of clinical and environmental Bt1 strains, most of them involved in human clinical cases related to raw seafood ingestion. L2 is formed by a mixture of Bt1 and Bt2 strains from various sources, including diseased fish, and is related to the aquaculture industry. L3 is also linked to the aquaculture industry and includes Bt3 strains exclusively, mostly related to wound infections or secondary septicemia after farmed-fish handling. Lastly, L4 and L5 include a few strains of Bt1 associated with specific geographical areas. The phylogenetic trees for ChrI and II are not congruent to one another, which suggests that inter- and/or intra-chromosomal rearrangements have been produced along Vv evolution. Further, the phylogenetic trees for each chromosome and the virulence plasmid were also not congruent, which also suggests that pVvbt2 has been acquired independently by different clones, probably in fish farms. From all these clones, the one with zoonotic capabilities (Bt2-Serovar E has successfully spread worldwide. Based on these results, we propose a new updated classification of the species based on phylogenetic lineages rather than on Bts, as well as the inclusion of all Bt2 strains in a pathovar with the particular ability to cause fish vibriosis, for which we suggest the name “piscis.”

  1. A prospective multicenter study on self-expandable metallic stents as a bridge to surgery for malignant colorectal obstruction in Japan: efficacy and safety in 312 patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Saito, Shuji; Yoshida, Shuntaro; Isayama, Hiroyuki; Matsuzawa, Takeaki; Kuwai, Toshio; Maetani, Iruru; Shimada, Mamoru; Yamada, Tomonori; Tomita, Masafumi; Koizumi, Koichi; Hirata, Nobuto; Kanazawa, Hideki; Enomoto, Toshiyuki; Sekido, Hitoshi; Saida, Yoshihisa

    2016-09-01

    Endoscopic stenting with a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is a widely accepted procedure for malignant colonic obstruction. The Colonic Stent Safe Procedure Research Group conducted the present prospective feasibility study. Our objectives were to estimate the safety and feasibility of SEMS placement as a bridge to surgery (BTS) for malignant colorectal obstruction. We conducted a prospective, observational, single-arm, multicenter clinical trial from March 2012 to October 2013. Each patient was treated with an uncovered WallFlex enteral colonic stent. Patients were followed up until discharge after surgery. A total of 518 consecutive patients were enrolled in this study. The cohort intended for BTS consisted of 312 patients (61 %), and the stent could be released in 305 patients. Technical and clinical success rates were 98 and 92 %, respectively. Elective surgery was performed in 297 patients, and emergency surgery was performed in eight patients for the treatment of complications. The overall preoperative complication rate was 7.2 %. Major complications, including perforation, occurred in 1.6 %, persistent colonic obstruction occurred in 1.0 %, and stent migration occurred in 1.3 % patients. The median time from SEMS to surgery was 16 days. Silent perforations were observed in 1.3 %. Open and laparoscopic surgery was performed in 121 and 184 patients, respectively. The tumor could be resected in 297 patients. The primary anastomosis rate was 92 %. The rate of anastomotic leakage was 4 %, and the overall stoma creation rate was 10 %. The median duration of hospitalization following surgery was 12 days. Overall postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 16 and 0.7 %, respectively. This largest, multicenter, prospective study demonstrates the feasibility of SEMS placement as a BTS for malignant colorectal obstruction. SEMS serves as a safe and effective BTS with acceptable stoma creation and complication rates in patients with acute

  2. Response to capacitating stimuli indicates extender-related differences in boar sperm function.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schmid, S; Henning, H; Petrunkina, A M; Weitze, K F; Waberski, D

    2013-10-01

    Spermatozoa, especially those of the porcine species, are highly susceptible to in vitro chilling and ageing. Extenders are continuously developed to protect boar spermatozoa from chilling injury. New semen extenders and other modified preservation strategies require sensitive testing for essential sperm functions. The key process on the pathway of fertilization is capacitation. The aim of the present study was to examine whether the specific response to capacitating stimuli is sensitive enough to indicate different preservation capacities of extenders during hypothermic storage of boar spermatozoa. Semen was diluted in Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) and Androstar Plus and kept for 3 h at 22°C or stored at 17°C, 10°C, and 5°C. Semen was analyzed at 24 and 96 h of storage. Motility and membrane integrity remained at high levels, except for lower values when stored in BTS at 5°C. Washed subsamples were incubated in capacitating medium (Tyrode) and control medium and were assessed for intracellular calcium concentration and integrity of plasma membranes using a flow cytometer. On the basis of the loss of low-calcium live cells in a kinetic approach, the specific response to capacitation stimuli was determined. There was a higher loss of response in semen stored hypothermically in the standard extender BTS compared to Androstar Plus. Assessment of the extent of phospholipid disorder under capacitating and control conditions by use of merocyanine staining did not reveal any significant extender-related differences. A field insemination trial with 778 sows was performed to relate in vitro results to fertility. Fertility parameters did not differ in semen stored up to 48 h at 10°C in Androstar Plus compared to controls stored at 17°C in BTS. In conclusion, assessment of specific reactivity to capacitating stimuli appears to be a sensitive tool for detection of extender-dependent alterations in functionality of chilled boar spermatozoa.

  3. Opinions on cell phone use on airplanes, congestion, and telecommuting — from the 2006 and 2007 Omnibus Household Survey

    Science.gov (United States)

    2008-07-01

    The annual Omnibus Household Survey (OHS), administered by the U.S. Department of Transportations Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), asks respondents about their weekly travel habits, journey to work, opinions about the transportation syst...

  4. 2016 Highlights of Ferry Operations in the United States

    Science.gov (United States)

    2017-10-01

    This publication highlights data collected by the 2016 NCFO. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) conducted the NCFO from April through November 2016, collecting the operational characteristics of the 2015 calendar year ferry operations.

  5. Spectroscopic ellipsometric modeling of a Bi–Te–Se write layer of an optical data storage device as guided by atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Hao; Madaan, Nitesh; Bagley, Jacob; Diwan, Anubhav [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 (United States); Liu, Yiqun [Department of Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (United States); Davis, Robert C. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 (United States); Lunt, Barry M. [Department of Information Technology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 (United States); Smith, Stacey J., E-mail: ssmith@chem.byu.edu [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 (United States); Linford, Matthew R., E-mail: mrlinford@chem.byu.edu [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 (United States)

    2014-10-31

    Conventional magnetic tape is the most widely used medium for archival data storage. However, data stored on it need to be migrated every ca. 5 years. Recently, optical discs that store information for hundreds, or even more than 1000 years, have been introduced to the market. We recently proposed that technology in these optical discs be used to make an optical tape that would show greater permanence than its magnetic counterpart. Here we provide a detailed optical characterization of a sputtered thin film of bismuth, tellurium, and selenium (BTS) that is a proposed data storage layer for these devices. The methodology described herein should be useful in the future development of related materials. Spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) data are obtained using interference enhancement, and the modeling of this data is guided by results from atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray reflectivity (XRR). By AFM, ca. 40 nm BTS films show ca. 10 nm roughness. SEM images also suggest considerable roughness in the films and indicate that they are composed of 13.1 ± 5.9 nm grains. XRD confirms that the films are crystalline and predicts a grain size of 17 ± 2 nm. XRD results are consistent with the composition of the films — a mildly oxidized BTS material. Three models of increasing complexity are investigated to explain the SE data. The first model consists of a smooth, homogeneous BTS film. The second model adds a roughness layer to the previous model. The third model also has two layers. The bottom layer is modeled as a mixture of BTS and void using a Bruggeman effective medium approximation. The upper layer is similarly modeled, but with a gradient. The first model was unable to adequately model the SE data. The second model was an improvement — lower MSE (4.4) and good agreement with step height measurements. The third model was even better — very low MSE (2.6) and good agreement with AFM results. The

  6. Oxygen flow effects on electrical properties, stability, and density of states of amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O thin-film transistors

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lee, Yong-Su; Kai-Hsiang Yu, Eric; Shim, Dong-Hwan; Kong, Hyang-Shik; Bie, Linsen; Kanicki, Jerzy

    2014-12-01

    To investigate the origin of threshold voltage (Vth) shift of amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O (a-IGZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs), a combination of bias-temperature stress (BTS) and multi-frequency capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements were used to evaluate the impact of oxygen partial pressure (PO2) during a-IGZO deposition on TFT electrical properties, electrical stability, and density of states (DOS). The extracted sub-gap DOS was decomposed into exponential bandtail states and Gaussian-like deep-gap states. The peak density of Gaussian-like states is larger for higher PO2. We conclude that the Gaussian-like states are excess/weakly-bonded oxygen in the form of O0 or O1- ions acting as acceptor-like states and are at the origin of TFT threshold voltage shift during positive BTS.

  7. Energy conservation attenuates the loss of skeletal muscle excitability during intense contractions

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Macdonald, W A; Ørtenblad, N; Nielsen, Ole Bækgaard

    2007-01-01

    High-frequency stimulation of skeletal muscle has long been associated with ionic perturbations, resulting in the loss of membrane excitability, which may prevent action potential propagation and result in skeletal muscle fatigue. Associated with intense skeletal muscle contractions are large...... with control muscles, the resting metabolites ATP, phosphocreatine, creatine, and lactate, as well as the resting muscle excitability as measured by M-waves, were unaffected by treatment with BTS plus dantrolene. Following 20 or 30 s of continuous 60-Hz stimulation, BTS-plus-dantrolene-treated muscles showed...... changes in muscle metabolites. However, the role of metabolites in the loss of muscle excitability is not clear. The metabolic state of isolated rat extensor digitorum longus muscles at 30 degrees C was manipulated by decreasing energy expenditure and thereby allowed investigation of the effects of energy...

  8. Bäcklund Transformations for the Kirchhoff Top

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Orlando Ragnisco

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available We construct Bäcklund transformations (BTs for the Kirchhoff top by taking advantage of the common algebraic Poisson structure between this system and the sl(2 trigonometric Gaudin model. Our BTs are integrable maps providing an exact time-discretization of the system, inasmuch as they preserve both its Poisson structure and its invariants. Moreover, in some special cases we are able to show that these maps can be explicitly integrated in terms of the initial conditions and of the ''iteration time'' n. Encouraged by these partial results we make the conjecture that the maps are interpolated by a specific one-parameter family of hamiltonian flows, and present the corresponding solution. We enclose a few pictures where the orbits of the continuous and of the discrete flow are depicted.

  9. State Transportation Statistics 2010

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-09-14

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of DOTs Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), presents State Transportation Statistics 2010, a statistical profile of transportation in the 50 states and the District of Col...

  10. State Transportation Statistics 2011

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-08-08

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), a part of DOTs Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), presents State Transportation Statistics 2011, a statistical profile of transportation in the 50 states and the District of Col...

  11. Pocket Guide to Transportation 2012

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-01-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration produces the Pocket Guide to Transportation as a compact resource that provides snapshots of the U.S. transportation system and highlights major tr...

  12. Transportation satellite accounts : a look at transportation's role in the economy.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-01-01

    To provide a more comprehensive measure of transportation services and their contribution to the national economy, the U.S. Department of Transportations Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) and the U.S. Department of Commerces Bureau of E...

  13. State Transportation Statistics 2014

    Science.gov (United States)

    2014-12-15

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) presents State Transportation Statistics 2014, a statistical profile of transportation in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. This is the 12th annual edition of State Transportation Statistics, a ...

  14. The Office of Airline Information.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2015-01-01

    The Office of Airline Information (OAI) mandate is to collect, validate, compile and disseminate data on airline traffic, performance, finances, and fares. Each quarter, BTS Office of Airline Information (OAI) processes more than 3,800 filings sub...

  15. 2014 Highlights of Ferry Operations in the United States

    Science.gov (United States)

    2016-05-01

    Based on information provided by operators who responded to the 2014 National Census of Ferry Operators (NCFO), the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) conservatively estimates that ferries in the United States carried just over 115 million pas...

  16. Has central sensitization become independent of nociceptive input in chronic pancreatitis patients who fail thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy?

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Bouwense, S.A.W.; Buscher, H.C.J.L.; Goor, H. van; Wilder-Smith, O.H.G.

    2011-01-01

    BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: : Central sensitization due to visceral pancreatic nociceptive input may be important in chronic pancreatitis pain. We investigated whether bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy (BTS) to reduce nociceptive input in chronic pancreatitis patients (CPP) with poor pain

  17. National Rail Network: 1:100,000 (line), Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [us_rail_network_100k_lin_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The Rail Network is a comprehensive database of the nation's railway system at the 1:100,000 scale. The data set covers all 50 States plus the District of Columbia.

  18. Dicty_cDB: SLH341 [Dicty_cDB

    Lifescience Database Archive (English)

    Full Text Available 5 ( AF305060 ) Dictyostelium discoideum Wiscott-Aldrich syndrome... 404 0.0 5 ( B...ts) Value AF305060_1( AF305060 |pid:none) Dictyostelium discoideum Wiscott-A... 83 8e-15 AC117076_18( AC1170

  19. 2002 commodity flow survey : state summaries

    Science.gov (United States)

    2005-07-01

    This report summarizes the 2002 Commodity Flow Survey (CFS) : state reports released in March 2005 by the Bureau of Transportation : Statistics (BTS) of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration : of the USDOT and the Census Bureau of the...

  20. Two decades of change in transportation reflections from transportation statistics annual reports 1994–2014.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2015-01-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) provides information to support understanding and decision-making related to the transportation system, including the size and extent of the system, how it is used, how well it works, and its contribution...

  1. Impact of 2001 Building Technology, state and community programs on United States employment and wage income

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    MJ Scott; DJ Hostick; DB Elliott

    2000-01-01

    The Department of Energy Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs (BTS) is interested in assessing the potential economic impacts of its portfolio of programs on national employment and income. A special purpose version of the IMPLAN input-output model allied In Build is used in this study of all 38 BTS programs included in the FY2001 federal budget. Energy savings, investments, and impacts on U.S. national employment and wage income are reported by program for selected years to the year 2030. Energy savings from these programs have the potential of creating a total of nearly 332,000 jobs and about $5.3 billion in wage income (1995$) by the year 2030. Because the required investments to achieve these savings are capital intensive, the net effect after investment is 304,000 jobs and $5.0 billion

  2. Penambahan Vitamin C Pada Pengencer Spermatozoa Babi Landrace Yang Disimpan Pada Suhu 15ºC (ADDITION OF VITAMIN C IN DILUENT OF LANDRACE SPERM STORED IN TEMPERATURE OF 15ºC

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wayan Bebas

    2015-08-01

    Full Text Available The aims of this study were to determine the viability and motility of Landrace pig’sspermatozoa in the Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS diluent with addition vitamin C which werestored at a temperature of 15ºC. During the storage process, metabolic activity of spermatozoaproduce free radicals that can reduce the viability and motility of spermatozoa thus it needs theaddition of antioxidants. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can be used to scavengethe free radicals.This study used vitamin C added into the BTS diluent with scavenge dose is 0.1 mg/ml, 0.2 mg/mland a dose of 0.3 mg/ml. The results showed that a dose of 0.1 mg/ml is the best dose to maintainthe viability and motility of Landrace pigs spermatozoa were storage at a temperature of 15ºC.

  3. Long distance cell communication using spherical tether balloons

    Science.gov (United States)

    Manchanda, R. K.; Rajagopalan, Vasudevan; Vasudevan, Rajagopalan; Mehrotra, R. K.; Sreenivasan, S.; Pawaskar, M.; Subba Rao Jonnalagadda, Venkata; Buduru, Suneelkumar; Kulkarni, P. M.

    A proof-of-concept experiment was conducted for long-range cell communication for rural tele-phony and internet. We designed and fabricated a spherical tether balloon to carry the con-ventional micro base transceiver station (BTS) along with three slotted antenna to cover 2-pi radius. AC power and optical fiber were anchored along with the tether line. A special fre-quency license was obtained from Wireless Planning Commission (WPC) wing of Department of Telecommunication (DoT), India for the period of experiment so as not to affect the opera-tional networks. The experiments were carried out for different BTS heights up to 500 meter. Signal measurement both in data mode and voice quality were done in different quadrant using mobile vans. This paper describes the methodology (under patenting) and utility of technique for operational application.

  4. Elementary Baecklund transformations for a discrete Ablowitz-Ladik eigenvalue problem

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Rourke, David E

    2004-01-01

    Elementary Baecklund transformations (BTs) are described for a discretization of the Zakharov-Shabat eigenvalue problem (a special case of the Ablowitz-Ladik eigenvalue problem). Elementary BTs allow the process of adding bound states to a system (i.e., the add-one-soliton BT) to be 'factorized' to solving two simpler sub-problems. They are used to determine the effect on the scattering data when bound states are added. They are shown to provide a method of calculating discrete solitons-this is achieved by constructing a lattice of intermediate potentials, with the parameters used in the calculation of the lattice simply related to the soliton scattering data. When the potentials, S n , T n , in the system are related by S n = -T n , they enable simple derivations to be obtained of the add-one-soliton BT and the nonlinear superposition formula

  5. ANALISIS TINGKAT KEGAGALAN HANDOVER PADA JARINGAN HIGH SPEED DOWNLINK PACKET ACCESS DI WILAYAH BALI SELATAN

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rizki Anugrah Wibowo

    2014-10-01

    Full Text Available Untuk menjamin komunikasi dapat terus berlangsung tanpa adanya pemutusan panggilan (drop call perlu dilakukan proses handover. Proses perpindahan yang dapat dilakukan adalah softer handover dan soft handover dengan melihat jumlah panggilan yang meningkat disetiap sektor dan BTS. Tujuannya adalah untuk mengetahui seberapa besar pengaruh jumlah panggilan terhadap tingkat kegagalan handover agar performasi setiap BTS dapat bekerja dengan optimal. Metode yang dilakukan adalah menganalisis data softer handover dan soft handover di wilayah Bali Selatan. Untuk mengetahui hubungan antara jumlah panggilan dengan tingkat kegagalan softer handover dan soft handover dengan analisis regresi dan korelasi. Kegagalan softer handover dan soft handover yang didapat menunjukan hasil bahwa adanya hubungan yang nyata antara jumlah panggilan dengan tingkat kegagalan handover, namun tingkat kegagalan yang terjadi tidak signifikan dipengaruhi oleh jumlah panggilan sebesar 8.2% untuk softer handover dan 20.1% untuk soft handover.

  6. Pocket Guide to Transportation 2018

    Science.gov (United States)

    2018-01-01

    The 2018 BTS Pocket Guide to Transportation is a quick reference guide that provides transportation statistics at your fingertips. It provides key information and highlights major trends on the U.S. transportation system. This year features a new and...

  7. U.S. Billion-Ton Update: Biomass Supply for a Bioenergy and Bioproducts Industry

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Downing, Mark [ORNL; Eaton, Laurence M [ORNL; Graham, Robin Lambert [ORNL; Langholtz, Matthew H [ORNL; Perlack, Robert D [ORNL; Turhollow Jr, Anthony F [ORNL; Stokes, Bryce [Navarro Research & Engineering; Brandt, Craig C [ORNL

    2011-08-01

    The report, Biomass as Feedstock for a Bioenergy and Bioproducts Industry: The Technical Feasibility of a Billion-Ton Annual Supply (generally referred to as the Billion-Ton Study or 2005 BTS), was an estimate of 'potential' biomass based on numerous assumptions about current and future inventory, production capacity, availability, and technology. The analysis was made to determine if conterminous U.S. agriculture and forestry resources had the capability to produce at least one billion dry tons of sustainable biomass annually to displace 30% or more of the nation's present petroleum consumption. An effort was made to use conservative estimates to assure confidence in having sufficient supply to reach the goal. The potential biomass was projected to be reasonably available around mid-century when large-scale biorefineries are likely to exist. The study emphasized primary sources of forest- and agriculture-derived biomass, such as logging residues, fuel treatment thinnings, crop residues, and perennially grown grasses and trees. These primary sources have the greatest potential to supply large, reliable, and sustainable quantities of biomass. While the primary sources were emphasized, estimates of secondary residue and tertiary waste resources of biomass were also provided. The original Billion-Ton Resource Assessment, published in 2005, was divided into two parts-forest-derived resources and agriculture-derived resources. The forest resources included residues produced during the harvesting of merchantable timber, forest residues, and small-diameter trees that could become available through initiatives to reduce fire hazards and improve forest health; forest residues from land conversion; fuelwood extracted from forests; residues generated at primary forest product processing mills; and urban wood wastes, municipal solid wastes (MSW), and construction and demolition (C&D) debris. For these forest resources, only residues, wastes, and small

  8. Improved Coast Guard Communications Using Commercial Satellites and WWW Technology: Slide Presentation

    Science.gov (United States)

    1997-06-18

    The slides in this file amplify a paper that was presented at International Mobile Satellite Conference, (IMSC-97), Pasadena CA on 18 June 1997. The text of that presentation can be found at http://www.bts.gov/NTL/data/imsc.pdf.

  9. The relationship between beginning teachers' stress causes, stress responses, teaching behaviour and attrition

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Harmsen, Ruth; Lorenz, Michelle; Maulana, Ridwan; van Veen, Klaas

    2018-01-01

    In this study, the relationships between beginning teachers’ perceived stress causes, stress responses, observed teaching behaviour and attrition is investigated employing structural equation modelling (SEM). A total of 143 BTs were surveyed using the Questionnaire on the Experience and Evaluation

  10. Effect of altered eating habits and periods during Ramadan fasting on intraocular pressure, tear secretion, corneal and anterior chamber parameters

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Kerimoglu, H.; Ozturk, B.; Gunduz, K.; Bozkurt, B.; Kamis, U.; Okka, M.

    Purpose To determine whether altered eating habits and periods, especially the pre-dawn meal, during Ramadan fasting have any significant effect on intraocular pressure (IOP), tear secretion, corneal and anterior chamber parameters. Methods IOP, basal tear secretion (BTS), reflex tear secretion

  11. 75 FR 41920 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Airline Service Quality Performance...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-07-19

    ... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Research & Innovative Technology Administration [Docket ID Number RITA 2008-0002] Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Airline Service Quality...: Airline Service Quality Performance--Part 234. Form No.: BTS Form 234. Type Of Review: Re-instatement of...

  12. The Freight Transportation Services Index as a leading economic indicator

    Science.gov (United States)

    2009-09-01

    The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) showed a decline a full year and a half prior to the start of the current recession. This downturn suggests the TSI may prove particularly useful as an indic...

  13. Development of Base Transceiver Station Selection Algorithm for ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    TEMS) equipment was carried out on the existing BTSs, and a linear algorithm optimization program based on the spectral link efficiency of each BTS was developed, the output of this site optimization gives the selected number of base station sites ...

  14. Sensing Urban Patterns with Antenna Mappings: The Case of Santiago, Chile.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Graells-Garrido, Eduardo; Peredo, Oscar; García, José

    2016-07-15

    Mobile data has allowed us to sense urban dynamics at scales and granularities not known before, helping urban planners to cope with urban growth. A frequently used kind of dataset are Call Detail Records (CDR), used by telecommunication operators for billing purposes. Being an already extracted and processed dataset, it is inexpensive and reliable. A common assumption with respect to geography when working with CDR data is that the position of a device is the same as the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) it is connected to. Because the city is divided into a square grid, or by coverage zones approximated by Voronoi tessellations, CDR network events are assigned to corresponding areas according to BTS position. This geolocation may suffer from non negligible error in almost all cases. In this paper we propose "Antenna Virtual Placement" (AVP), a method to geolocate mobile devices according to their connections to BTS, based on decoupling antennas from its corresponding BTS according to its physical configuration (height, downtilt, and azimuth). We use AVP applied to CDR data as input for two different tasks: first, from an individual perspective, what places are meaningful for them? And second, from a global perspective, how to cluster city areas to understand land use using floating population flows? For both tasks we propose methods that complement or improve prior work in the literature. Our proposed methods are simple, yet not trivial, and work with daily CDR data from the biggest telecommunication operator in Chile. We evaluate them in Santiago, the capital of Chile, with data from working days from June 2015. We find that: (1) AVP improves city coverage of CDR data by geolocating devices to more city areas than using standard methods; (2) we find important places (home and work) for a 10% of the sample using just daily information, and recreate the population distribution as well as commuting trips; (3) the daily rhythms of floating population allow to cluster

  15. Imposex in Nassarius nitidus (Jeffreys, 1867) as a possible investigative tool to monitor butyltin contamination according to the Water Framework Directive: A case study in the Venice Lagoon (Italy).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cacciatore, Federica; Noventa, Seta; Antonini, Camilla; Formalewicz, Malgorzata; Gion, Claudia; Berto, Daniela; Gabellini, Massimo; Brusà, Rossella Boscolo

    2018-02-01

    Butyltin (TBT, DBT, and MBT) effects on molluscs, especially endocrine disruption in bivalves and gastropods, have been widely investigated. Imposex, the superimposition of male characters onto female gonochoristic Caenogastropods, is the most studied biological effect of TBT. TBT compounds are among the priority hazardous substances within Directives 2000/60/EC (WFD) and 2008/105/EC. The Environmental Quality Standards (EQSs) set by the WFD for TBT are quite difficult to quantify by means of chemical analysis, without the use of expensive and high performance methods. Assuming that EQSs set for TBT were derived from evidence of imposex development at very low concentrations, this specific biomarker could be used as an indirect measure of assessing levels of bioavailable BTs. Therefore, this study aims to validate the use of imposex development as an investigative tool to monitor the bioavailable fraction of BTs within the WFD, by comparing imposex levels and BT concentrations in Nassarius nitidus from the Venice Lagoon. BT concentrations and imposex levels in N. nitidus, collected in 2013, had decreased when compared to previous studies in the same area. Both VDSI and RPLI correlated positively with BT body burden in females, confirming that imposex is a valid tool to monitor bioavailable BTs. However, TBT is still a matter of concern in the Venice Lagoon, as TBT concentrations were still higher than its degradation products suggesting recent fresh TBT inputs in the studied area. To propose imposex levels as an indicator of the impact of BTs within the WFD, classification class boundaries and Ecological Quality Ratios were introduced. As a preliminary attempt, imposex levels were also compared to the OSPAR Commission EcoQOs which linked imposex levels in Nassarius reticulatus with TBT concentrations in water. Based on this comparison the degree of imposex development in the Venice Lagoon suggested that TBT concentrations in water should be over the EQS

  16. Pollination in the oil palms Elaeis guineensis, E. oleifera and their hybrids (OxG, in tropical America

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    María Raquel Meléndez

    2016-03-01

    Full Text Available Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis is very important in the Central and South American economies. Plants suffer from a devastating fungal disease known as "lethal decay" or "pudrición del cogollo", in Spanish. Producer countries in Africa, Asia and tropical America have developed breeding programs that seek the tolerance of this disease by plants. The hybrids Elaeis guineensis x Elaeis oleifera (OxG are resistant, but show physiological problems that affect commercial productivity. Natural pollination in these hybrids is low and manual pollination has high labor costs. The Coleoptera order is the most numerous and diverse natural pollinator, and the Elaeidobius genus has high efficiency and specificity to oil palm species. Elaeidobius kameronicus, Elaeidobius subvittatus and Mystrops costaricensis are the insects most commonly associated with oil palm inflorescences. Dynamics in insect populations change according to palm species and weather conditions. It is necessary to understand the insect behavior and population dynamics in OxG hybrids. Thus, recent studies on oil palm pollination, insect diversity and distribution in Latin America are discussed in this study.

  17. 75 FR 42818 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Collection of Safety Culture Data for...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-07-22

    ... Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Collection of Safety Culture Data for Program Evaluation AGENCY... . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Collection of Safety Culture Data for Program Evaluation. Type of Request... data on the nation's transportation system is an important component of BTS' responsibility to the...

  18. Ecological risks of home and personal care products in the riverine environment of a rural region in south China without domestic wastewater treatment facilities

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Zhang, N.; Liu, Y.; Brink, van den P.J.; Price, O.R.; Ying, G.G.

    2015-01-01

    Home and personal care products (HPCPs) including biocides, benzotriazoles (BTs) and ultraviolet (UV) filters are widely used in our daily life. After use, they are discharged with domestic wastewater into the receiving environment. This study investigated the occurrence of 29 representative HPCPs,

  19. Assessment of multimodal freight bottlenecks and alleviation strategies for upper Midwest region.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-05-01

    The freight that passes through the Mississippi Valley Region is high volume and has a substantial impact on the economy of the : region. According to the BTS-sponsored Commodity Flow Survey, trucks carried almost 2.5 billion tons of freight across t...

  20. Design and control strategy for a hybrid green energy system for mobile telecommunication sites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Okundamiya, Michael S.; Emagbetere, Joy O.; Ogujor, Emmanuel A.

    2014-07-01

    The rising energy costs and carbon footprint of operating mobile telecommunication sites in the emerging world have increased research interests in green technology. The intermittent nature of most green energy sources creates the problem of designing the optimum configuration for a given location. This study presents the design analysis and control strategy for a cost effective and reliable operation of the hybrid green energy system (HGES) for GSM base transceiver station (BTS) sites in isolated regions. The design constrains the generation and distribution of power to reliably satisfy the energy demand while ensuring safe operation of the system. The overall process control applies the genetic algorithm-based technique for optimal techno-economic sizing of system's components. The process simulation utilized meteorological data for 3 locations (Abuja, Benin City and Sokoto) with varying climatic conditions in Nigeria. Simulation results presented for green GSM BTS sites are discussed and compared with existing approaches.

  1. Data Processing Procedures and Methodology for Estimating Trip Distances for the 1995 American Travel Survey (ATS)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hwang, H.-L.; Rollow, J.

    2000-05-01

    The 1995 American Travel Survey (ATS) collected information from approximately 80,000 U.S. households about their long distance travel (one-way trips of 100 miles or more) during the year of 1995. It is the most comprehensive survey of where, why, and how U.S. residents travel since 1977. ATS is a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) and the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Census (Census); BTS provided the funding and supervision of the project, and Census selected the samples, conducted interviews, and processed the data. This report documents the technical support for the ATS provided by the Center for Transportation Analysis (CTA) in Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), which included the estimation of trip distances as well as data quality editing and checking of variables required for the distance calculations.

  2. National Rail Network 1:2,000,000 (node), Geographic WGS84, BTS (2006) [us_rail_network_100k_nd_BTS_2006

    Data.gov (United States)

    Louisiana Geographic Information Center — The Rail Network is a comprehensive database of the nation's railway system at the 1:100,000 scale. The data set covers all 50 States plus the District of Columbia.

  3. Secretion of Interferon gamma (IFNγ) from Human Immune Cells is Altered by Exposure to Tributyltin (TBT) and Dibutyltin (DBT)

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lawrence, Shanieek; Reid, Jacqueline; Whalen, Margaret

    2013-01-01

    Tributyltin (TBT) and dibutyltin (DBT) are widespread environmental contaminants found in food, beverages, and human blood samples. Both of these butyltins (BTs) interfere with the ability of human natural killer (NK) cells to lyse target cells and also alter secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) from human immune cells in vitro. The capacity of BTs to interfere with secretion of other pro-inflammatory cytokines has not been examined. Interferon gamma (IFNγ) is a modulator of adaptive and innate immune responses, playing an important role in overall immune competence. This study shows that both TBT and DBT alter secretion of IFNγ from human immune cells. Peripheral blood cell preparations that were increasingly reconstituted were used to determine if exposures to either TBT or DBT affected IFNγ secretion and how the makeup of the cell preparation influenced that effect. IFNγ secretion was examined after 24 h, 48 h and 6 day exposures to TBT (200- 2.5 nM) and DBT (5- 0.05 μM) in highly enriched human NK cells, a monocyte-depleted preparation of PBMCs, and monocyte-containing PBMCs. Both BTs altered IFNγ secretion from NK cells at most of the conditions tested (either increasing or decreasing secretion). However, there was significant variability among donors as to the concentrations and time points that showed changes as well as the baseline secretion of IFNγ. The majority of donors showed an increase in IFNγ secretion in response to at least one concentration of TBT or DBT at a minimum of one length of exposure. PMID:24357260

  4. Secretion of interferon gamma from human immune cells is altered by exposure to tributyltin and dibutyltin.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lawrence, Shanieek; Reid, Jacqueline; Whalen, Margaret

    2015-05-01

    Tributyltin (TBT) and dibutyltin (DBT) are widespread environmental contaminants found in food, beverages, and human blood samples. Both of these butyltins (BTs) interfere with the ability of human natural killer (NK) cells to lyse target cells and alter secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) from human immune cells in vitro. The capacity of BTs to interfere with secretion of other pro-inflammatory cytokines has not been examined. Interferon gamma (IFNγ) is a modulator of adaptive and innate immune responses, playing an important role in overall immune competence. This study shows that both TBT and DBT alter secretion of IFNγ from human immune cells. Peripheral blood cell preparations that were increasingly reconstituted were used to determine if exposures to either TBT or DBT affected IFNγ secretion and how the makeup of the cell preparation influenced that effect. IFNγ secretion was examined after 24 h, 48 h, and 6 day exposures to TBT (200 - 2.5 nM) and DBT (5 - 0.05 µM) in highly enriched human NK cells, a monocyte-depleted preparation of PBMCs, and monocyte-containing PBMCs. Both BTs altered IFNγ secretion from immune cells at most of the conditions tested (either increasing or decreasing secretion). However, there was significant variability among donors as to the concentrations and time points that showed changes as well as the baseline secretion of IFNγ. The majority of donors showed an increase in IFNγ secretion in response to at least one concentration of TBT or DBT at a minimum of one length of exposure. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  5. Validation of the community radiative transfer model

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ding Shouguo; Yang Ping; Weng Fuzhong; Liu Quanhua; Han Yong; Delst, Paul van; Li Jun; Baum, Bryan

    2011-01-01

    To validate the Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM) developed by the U.S. Joint Center for Satellite Data Assimilation (JCSDA), the discrete ordinate radiative transfer (DISORT) model and the line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) are combined in order to provide a reference benchmark. Compared with the benchmark, the CRTM appears quite accurate for both clear sky and ice cloud radiance simulations with RMS errors below 0.2 K, except for clouds with small ice particles. In a computer CPU run time comparison, the CRTM is faster than DISORT by approximately two orders of magnitude. Using the operational MODIS cloud products and the European Center for Medium-range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) atmospheric profiles as an input, the CRTM is employed to simulate the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) radiances. The CRTM simulations are shown to be in reasonably close agreement with the AIRS measurements (the discrepancies are within 2 K in terms of brightness temperature difference). Furthermore, the impact of uncertainties in the input cloud properties and atmospheric profiles on the CRTM simulations has been assessed. The CRTM-based brightness temperatures (BTs) at the top of the atmosphere (TOA), for both thin (τ 30) clouds, are highly sensitive to uncertainties in atmospheric temperature and cloud top pressure. However, for an optically thick cloud, the CRTM-based BTs are not sensitive to the uncertainties of cloud optical thickness, effective particle size, and atmospheric humidity profiles. On the contrary, the uncertainties of the CRTM-based TOA BTs resulting from effective particle size and optical thickness are not negligible in an optically thin cloud.

  6. Radiations FR of telephone antennas and Public health: the state of the art

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ubeda Maeso, A.; Trillo Ruiz, M. A.

    1999-01-01

    Today, mobile telephone is envisioned as one of the most significant innovations in communication. The growing development of this system asks for increasing amounts of antennas, installed in base transceiver stations (BTS) connection mobile stations (MS, hand held phones) to each other and to the conventional telephone network. Depending on the area, antennas are generally mounted in BTS located either on the top of buildings (in urban areas) or in towers (in rural or less populated areas). In both of the cases, the visual impact of BTS is significant for people living or working close to them. This visual evidence, together with some information, usually inconsistent or incomplete, released in media other than the scientific literature, have generated increasing feelings of phobia to alleged detrimental consequences of the uncontrolled exposure to radio waves emitted by the antennas. Such feelings, identified previously in countries where mobile telephony has been used for years in a regular basis, are now significantly growing in Spain and motivate many of the questions asked to information services of public agencies and institutions. The aim of the present article is to address some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic and to review the state of the art of our knowledge on the putative effects of the exposure to the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the aerials. Also, elementary notions are provided on the functioning of mobile telephony that may help the reader to better understand some technical aspects concerning the topic. (Author) 54 refs

  7. Prevalence and rupture rate of cerebral aneurysms discovered during intra-arterial chemotherapy of brain tumors.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bourekas, E C; Newton, H B; Figg, G M; Slone, H W

    2006-02-01

    During the administration of intra-arterial (IA) chemotherapy for the treatment of brain tumors (BTs), angiography may demonstrate asymptomatic, incidental cerebral aneurysms. The prevalence and complication rate of incidental aneurysms in patients undergoing IA chemotherapy remains unknown. It remains unclear whether the presence of an aneurysm represents an increased risk or a contraindication to this form of treatment. We performed a chart and angiography review of BT patients receiving IA chemotherapy over the previous 16 months. Seventy-eight patients were identified with primary (39) and metastatic (39) BTs. The cohort consisted of 40 men and 38 women, with a mean age of 47.8 years (range, 22-80 years). During initial angiography, 8 patients (10.3%) were identified with incidental cerebral aneurysms. The aneurysms were saccular and varied in size from 2-4 mm (mean, 3 mm). Seven of the 8 patients continued IA chemotherapy after detection of the aneurysm, for a total of 35 IA procedures. Of these 7 patients, 5 expired from nonaneurysmal complications (mean survival, 5.4 months; range, 2-10 months); 4 from the primary tumor, and one from an infected craniotomy site. Two patients continue to survive; one remains in treatment, and the other has completed 12 months of IA therapy. There were no aneurysmal complications during or after IA treatment in any of the BT patients. Incidental aneurysms may be more common in patients with BTs than the general population. In our patient population, there was no indication that an incidental aneurysm was reason to preclude or delay the use of IA chemotherapy.

  8. Assessment of sperm viability, mitochondrial activity, capacitation and acrosome intactness in extended boar semen during long-term storage.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Huo, Li-Jun; Ma, Xing-Hong; Yang, Zeng-Ming

    2002-10-15

    The purpose of this study was to assess sperm quality in extended boar semen during in vitro storage in order to determine which extender should be used and how long boar semen can be stored. Freshly ejaculated boar semen was diluted with equal volumes of Beltsville thaw solution (BTS), Androhep, KIEV or Zorlesco extenders and stored at 17 degrees C for up to 15 days. Sperm quality was evaluated by examining viability using SYBR-14/PI and Hoechst 33258 staining, mitochondrial activity using 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolyl-carbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining, acrosome intactness by Coomassie blue staining, and capacitation status by chlortetracycline (CTC) staining. There were over 50% viable spermatozoa in boar semen extended with Zorlesco and Androhep extenders on Day 13 of storage. The percentage of JC-1-stained spermatozoa was 53.8 +/- 2.1% for Zorlesco and 57.7 +/- 1.60% for Androhep extenders on Day 13 of storage. The percentage of acrosome-intact spermatozoa detected by Coomassie blue staining was higher than that in the SYBR-14PI-, Hoechst 33258-, and JC-1-stained samples in our study. The results from SYBR-14/PI, Hoechst 33258, JC-1, and Coomassie blue staining were highly correlated (r > or = 0.9461). There were less than 15% capacitated spermatozoa in the semen extended with BTS, Androhep and Zorlesco extenders during 9 days of storage. However, most viable boar spermatozoa became capacitated by Day 13 of storage. The rank order of four extenders for maintaining sperm viability and mitochondrial activity was as follows: Androhep, Zorlesco, BTS, KIEV.

  9. Survey reveals public open to ban on hand-held cell phone use and texting.

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-01-01

    A study performed by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reveals that the public is open to a ban on hand-held cell phone use while driving. The study is based on data from 2009s Omnibus Household Survey (OHS), which is administered by B...

  10. 77 FR 26824 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Submission of Audit Reports-Part 248

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-05-07

    ... RITA 2008-0002] Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Submission of Audit Reports.... SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: OMB Approval No. 2138-0004. Title: Submission of Audit Reports--Part 248. Form No...: BTS collects independent audited financial reports from U.S. certificated air carriers. Carriers not...

  11. 76 FR 39153 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review; Report of Traffic and Capacity...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-07-05

    ... responsibilities relating to airline competition and consolidation. Traffic Forecasting The FAA uses traffic... FAA develops ways of increasing airport capacity at congested airports. Airline Industry Status... Seguin, Office of Airline Information, RTS-42, Room E34-418, RITA, BTS, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE...

  12. Beginning teachers' self-efficacy and stress and the supposed effects of induction arrangements

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Helms-Lorenz, Michelle; Slof, Bert; Vermue, Carlien E.; Canrinus, Esther. T.

    2012-01-01

    Induction arrangements are implemented in schools all over the world to support beginning teachers (BTs) (novices) in gradually growing into their profession. The aim of this study is to gain more insight into two key psychological processes involved in the work of a qualified beginning teacher,

  13. Organotins and new antifouling biocides in water and sediments from three Korean Special Management Sea Areas following ten years of tributyltin regulation: Contamination profiles and risk assessment.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lam, Nguyen Hoang; Jeong, Hui-Ho; Kang, Su-Dong; Kim, Dae-Jin; Ju, Mi-Jo; Horiguchi, Toshihiro; Cho, Hyeon-Seo

    2017-08-15

    A simultaneous monitoring study on organotins (butyltins and phenyltins) and most frequently used alternative antifouling biocides (Irgarol 1051, Diuron, Sea-Nine 211 and M1) in water and sediments (n=44) collected from three Special Management Sea Areas operated by Korean government. The lower concentration of butyltins (BTs) than that of new antifouling biocides (NEW) was found in water but the significant greater concentration of BTs than that of NEW was still found in sediments. The tributyltin (TBT) levels in water exceeded the chronic criterion to protect seawater aquatic life at several sites. Even ten years after the ban of the use of TBT-based antifouling paint, the concentrations of TBT, Diuron and Irgarol 1051 in sediments from shipyards exceeded global sediment quality guidelines and potentially poses adverse risks on marine organisms and extremely high concentration of TBT up to 2304ng/g was found for a sediment collected at a shipyard. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Surface-sediment and hermit-crab contamination by butyltins in southeastern Atlantic estuaries after ban of TBT-based antifouling paints.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sant'Anna, B S; Santos, D M; Marchi, M R R; Zara, F J; Turra, A

    2014-05-01

    Butyltin (BT) contamination was evaluated in hermit crabs from 25 estuaries and in sediments from 13 of these estuaries along about 2,000 km of the Brazilian coast. BT contamination in hermit crabs ranged from 2.22 to 1,746 ng Sn g(-1) of DBT and 1.32 to 318 ng Sn g(-1) of TBT. In sediment samples, the concentration also varied widely, from 25 to 1,304 ng Sn g(-1) of MBT, from 7 to 158 ng Sn g(-1) of DBT, and from 8 to 565 ng Sn g(-1) of TBT. BTs are still being found in surface sediments and biota of the estuaries after the international and Brazilian bans, showing heterogeneous distribution among and within estuaries. Although hermit crabs were previously tested as an indicator of recent BT contamination, the results indicate the presence of contamination, probably from resuspension of BTs from deeper water of the estuary.

  15. Bronchoscopy in Rural Areas?

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Reidar Berntsen

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Quality of bronchoscopy performed by one single pulmonologist in a scarcely populated subarctic area was compared to the guidelines provided by the British Thoracic Society (BTS. 103 patients underwent bronchoscopy. Diagnostic yield was increased to 76.6% when the first bronchoscopy was supplemented by bronchial washing fluid and brush cytology and to 86.7% (BTS guidelines >80% after a second bronchoscopy. Median time from referral to bronchoscopy was 10 days and 8 days from positive bronchoscopy to operative referral to another hospital. 1% of patients that underwent transbronchial lung biopsy had minor complications. One pulmonologist had rate of correct diagnosis based on visible endobronchial tumors that was comparable to the rates of numerous pulmonologists at larger centers performing the same procedure. Time delay was short. Rate of complications was comparable. Bronchoscopy performed by one pulmonologist alone could, in organized settings, be carried out at local hospitals in areas of scattered settlement.

  16. Topological surface states of Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2}Se are robust against surface chemical modification

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Thomas, Conor R.; Sahasrabudhe, Girija; Kushwaha, Satya Kumar; Cava, Robert J.; Schwartz, Jeffrey [Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ (United States); Xiong, Jun [Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ (United States)

    2014-12-01

    The robustness of the Dirac-like electronic states on the surfaces of topological insulators (TIs) during materials process-ing is a prerequisite for their eventual device application. Here, the (001) cleavage surfaces of crystals of the topological insulator Bi{sub 2}Te{sub 2}Se (BTS) were subjected to several surface chemical modification procedures that are common for electronic materials. Through measurement of Shubnikov-de Hass (SdH) oscillations, which are the most sensitive measure of their quality, the surface states of the treated surfaces were compared to those of pristine BTS that had been exposed to ambient conditions. In each case - surface oxidation, deposition of thin layers of Ti or Zr oxides, or chemical modification of the surface oxides - the robustness of the topological surface electronic states was demonstrated by noting only very small changes in the frequency and amplitude of the SdH oscillations. (copyright 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

  17. 77 FR 12365 - Agency Information Collection; Activity Under OMB Review: Submission of Audit Reports-Part 248

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-02-29

    ... independent public accountant. If a carrier does not have an annual audit, the carrier must file a statement... (BTS), DOT. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics invites the general public, industry and other...

  18. Development of Non-prey Baits for Delivery of Acetaminophen to Brown Treesnakes (Boiga irregularis) on Guam. Version 3

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-03-14

    BTS including commercial snake steak sausages, cotton rolls, plastic lizards, commercial canned meats, shrimp, chicken meat, and beef, but none were...experiment. Beef baits (≈ 5 g) were prepared from U.S. Chill bottom round roast ; DNM were 4-7 g. Seven experiments were conducted and Table 1

  19. Environmental study of some metals on several aquatic macrophytes

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    Administrator

    2011-09-26

    Sep 26, 2011 ... Concentration of Fe, Mn, Cu and Pb (mgkg-1 dry weight) in leaves, stems and roots of five macrophytes (BTS = Bidens tripartitus - stem, BTL = Bidens tripartitus – leaf, PAS = Polygonum amphibium - stem, PAL = Polygonum amphibium – leaf, LES = Lycopus europaeus - stem, LEL = Lycopus europaeus ...

  20. 77 FR 66502 - Agency Information Collection Activity; Notice of Request for Approval to Collect New Information...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2012-11-05

    ... address unsafe work conditions, prevent accidents, and improve safety in the workplace. BTS will collect... supports a multi-year program focused on improving transit rail safety by collecting and analyzing data and... (WMATA) rail system. The program is co-sponsored by WMATA's Office of the Deputy General Manager...

  1. Seasonal variation in organotins in the waters of the Dona Paula Bay, west coast of India

    Digital Repository Service at National Institute of Oceanography (India)

    Meena, R.M.; Garg, A.; Jadhav, S.

    concentrations of TBT, DBT, MBT and total BT varied from <1-37, 4-19, 6-28 and 21-84 ng Sn L sup(-1), respectively. Highest levels of BTs were recorded during May followed by April 2007 and March 2007 probably because the shipping and tourism activities are very...

  2. Mutation induced enhanced biosynthesis of lipase | Bapiraju ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    The purpose of the present investigation is to enhance production of biomedically important enzyme lipase by subjecting the indigenous lipase producing strain Rhizopus sp. BTS-24 to improvement by natural selection and random mutagenesis (UV and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitroso guanidine, NTG). The isolation of mutants ...

  3. Tributyltin (TBT) and Dibutyltin (DBT) Alter Secretion of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNFα) from Human Natural Killer (NK) Cells and a Mixture of T cells and NK Cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hurt, Kelsi; Hurd-Brown, Tasia; Whalen, Margaret

    2012-01-01

    Butyltins (BTs) have been in widespread use. Tributyltin (TBT) has been used as a biocide in a variety of applications and is found in human blood samples. Dibutyltin (DBT) has been used as a stabilizer in polyvinyl chloride plastics and as a de-worming agent in poultry. DBT, like TBT, is found in human blood. Human natural killer (NK) cells are the earliest defense against tumors and viral infections and secrete the cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha (α). TNFα is an important regulator of adaptive and innate immune responses. TNFα promotes inflammation and an association between malignant transformation and inflammation has been established. Previously, we have shown that TBT and DBT were able to interfere with the ability of NK cells to lyse tumor target cells. Here we show that BTs alter cytokine secretion by NK cells as well as a mixture of T and NK lymphocytes (T/NK cells). We examined 24 h, 48 h, and 6 day exposures to TBT (200- 2.5 nM) and DBT (5- 0.05 µM) on TNFα secretion by highly enriched human NK cells and T/NK cells. The results indicate that TBT (200 - 2.5 nM) decreased TNFα secretion from NK cells. In the T/NK cells 200 nM TBT decreased secretion while 100-5 nM TBT increased secretion of TNFα. NK cells or T/NK cells exposed to higher concentrations of DBT showed decreased TNFα secretion while lower concentrations showed increased secretion. The effects of BTs on TNFα secretion are seen at concentrations present in human blood. PMID:23047847

  4. Healthy volunteers can be phenotyped using cutaneous sensitization pain models.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mads U Werner

    Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Human experimental pain models leading to development of secondary hyperalgesia are used to estimate efficacy of analgesics and antihyperalgesics. The ability to develop an area of secondary hyperalgesia varies substantially between subjects, but little is known about the agreement following repeated measurements. The aim of this study was to determine if the areas of secondary hyperalgesia were consistently robust to be useful for phenotyping subjects, based on their pattern of sensitization by the heat pain models. METHODS: We performed post-hoc analyses of 10 completed healthy volunteer studies (n = 342 [409 repeated measurements]. Three different models were used to induce secondary hyperalgesia to monofilament stimulation: the heat/capsaicin sensitization (H/C, the brief thermal sensitization (BTS, and the burn injury (BI models. Three studies included both the H/C and BTS models. RESULTS: Within-subject compared to between-subject variability was low, and there was substantial strength of agreement between repeated induction-sessions in most studies. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC improved little with repeated testing beyond two sessions. There was good agreement in categorizing subjects into 'small area' (1(st quartile [75%] responders: 56-76% of subjects consistently fell into same 'small-area' or 'large-area' category on two consecutive study days. There was moderate to substantial agreement between the areas of secondary hyperalgesia induced on the same day using the H/C (forearm and BTS (thigh models. CONCLUSION: Secondary hyperalgesia induced by experimental heat pain models seem a consistent measure of sensitization in pharmacodynamic and physiological research. The analysis indicates that healthy volunteers can be phenotyped based on their pattern of sensitization by the heat [and heat plus capsaicin] pain models.

  5. Synthesis and characterization of BaTi1−xSnxO3–0.5 mol%GeO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bucur, Raul Alin; Bucur, Alexandra Ioana; Novaconi, Stefan; Nicoara, Irina

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► BaTi 1−x Sn x O 3 –0.5 mol%GeO 2 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5) ceramics were prepared at 1190 °C. ► GeO 2 improves crystallization and densification. ► Anomalies are noted for the rhombohedral–orthorhombic transition of BT–0.5Ge. ► For x = 0.3 and 0.5, ε′ r exhibit nearly constant variation between 200 and 400 K. - Abstract: Microcrystalline BaTi 1−x Sn x O 3 –0.5 mol%GeO 2 x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5 (BTSx–0.5Ge) and BaTiO 3 (BT) ceramics (1–0.5 μm) were prepared by a conventional solid-state reaction method. The crystalline structure of the samples was examined using XRD, the microstructure was analyzed by means of electron microscope and the density was measured by the Archimede’s method. The sintered ceramic disks have a tetragonal symmetry for BT, pseudo cubic for BTS1–0.5Ge and cubic symmetry for the other studied materials, with a gradual increase of unit cell dimensions. Small addition of GeO 2 can improve the density of BT ceramics: 97.9% for BT–0.5Ge, and 96.21% for pure BT. The highest degree of densification in the case of tin doping is achieved for BTS1–0.5Ge (96.93%). The formation of a liquid phase can lead to an anomalous grain growth, and in the case of BT–0.5Ge the grains are completely surrounded by a frozen eutectic melt. For the dielectric constant, while increasing the Sn concentration, the T C gradually shifts towards lower temperatures, and the peak of this transition becomes broader. The lowering of T C is mostly due to the concentration of tin ions and in a much delicate way to Ge ions. Anomalies are noticed for the orthorhombic transition, where the permittivity is higher than the same transition of the matrix (BT), with a shift towards higher temperatures. The BTS3–0.5Ge and BTS5–0.5Ge are the most stable compositions in terms of dielectric behavior, since in the temperature range 200–400 K, ε′ r is almost constant. Therefore, these compositions can be used for devices that operate over a

  6. Sensing Urban Patterns with Antenna Mappings: The Case of Santiago, Chile

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Eduardo Graells-Garrido

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available Mobile data has allowed us to sense urban dynamics at scales and granularities not known before, helping urban planners to cope with urban growth. A frequently used kind of dataset are Call Detail Records (CDR, used by telecommunication operators for billing purposes. Being an already extracted and processed dataset, it is inexpensive and reliable. A common assumption with respect to geography when working with CDR data is that the position of a device is the same as the Base Transceiver Station (BTS it is connected to. Because the city is divided into a square grid, or by coverage zones approximated by Voronoi tessellations, CDR network events are assigned to corresponding areas according to BTS position. This geolocation may suffer from non negligible error in almost all cases. In this paper we propose “Antenna Virtual Placement” (AVP, a method to geolocate mobile devices according to their connections to BTS, based on decoupling antennas from its corresponding BTS according to its physical configuration (height, downtilt, and azimuth. We use AVP applied to CDR data as input for two different tasks: first, from an individual perspective, what places are meaningful for them? And second, from a global perspective, how to cluster city areas to understand land use using floating population flows? For both tasks we propose methods that complement or improve prior work in the literature. Our proposed methods are simple, yet not trivial, and work with daily CDR data from the biggest telecommunication operator in Chile. We evaluate them in Santiago, the capital of Chile, with data from working days from June 2015. We find that: (1 AVP improves city coverage of CDR data by geolocating devices to more city areas than using standard methods; (2 we find important places (home and work for a 10% of the sample using just daily information, and recreate the population distribution as well as commuting trips; (3 the daily rhythms of floating population

  7. Sensing Urban Patterns with Antenna Mappings: The Case of Santiago, Chile †

    Science.gov (United States)

    Graells-Garrido, Eduardo; Peredo, Oscar; García, José

    2016-01-01

    Mobile data has allowed us to sense urban dynamics at scales and granularities not known before, helping urban planners to cope with urban growth. A frequently used kind of dataset are Call Detail Records (CDR), used by telecommunication operators for billing purposes. Being an already extracted and processed dataset, it is inexpensive and reliable. A common assumption with respect to geography when working with CDR data is that the position of a device is the same as the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) it is connected to. Because the city is divided into a square grid, or by coverage zones approximated by Voronoi tessellations, CDR network events are assigned to corresponding areas according to BTS position. This geolocation may suffer from non negligible error in almost all cases. In this paper we propose “Antenna Virtual Placement” (AVP), a method to geolocate mobile devices according to their connections to BTS, based on decoupling antennas from its corresponding BTS according to its physical configuration (height, downtilt, and azimuth). We use AVP applied to CDR data as input for two different tasks: first, from an individual perspective, what places are meaningful for them? And second, from a global perspective, how to cluster city areas to understand land use using floating population flows? For both tasks we propose methods that complement or improve prior work in the literature. Our proposed methods are simple, yet not trivial, and work with daily CDR data from the biggest telecommunication operator in Chile. We evaluate them in Santiago, the capital of Chile, with data from working days from June 2015. We find that: (1) AVP improves city coverage of CDR data by geolocating devices to more city areas than using standard methods; (2) we find important places (home and work) for a 10% of the sample using just daily information, and recreate the population distribution as well as commuting trips; (3) the daily rhythms of floating population allow to

  8. Effects of supplemental seminal plasma on cryopreserved boar ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    To analyse the effects of supplemental autologous seminal plasma on boar semen quality before freezing and after thawing, thirty ejaculates were collected from six Pietrain boars. The main factors of a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments were Beltsville thawing solution (BTS), seminal plasma before freezing, and ...

  9. 78 FR 41190 - Notice of Request for Clearance of a new Information Collection: National Census of Ferry Operators

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-07-09

    ... related to the Nation's ferry operations (National Census of Ferry Operators, OMB Control Number--2139..., (202) 366-4108, NCFO Project Manager, BTS, RITA, Department of Transportation, 1200 NJ Ave. SE., Room... of the old form were also refined to better meet the MAP-21 requirements. The concept of public or...

  10. Uso do diluente água de coco em pó (ACP-103® na conservação prolongada do sêmen do varrão: avaliação in vitro e in vivo Use of powder coconut water as extender (ACP-103® for boar semen longer preservation: in vitro and in vivo evaluations

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    R. Toniolli

    2010-10-01

    Full Text Available O sêmen de oito reprodutores foi coletado e de cada ejaculado separou-se um total de 1,75x10(9sptz, com concentração de 35x10(6sptz/mL. Usou-se o Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS como controle para testar o diluente água de coco em pó (ACP. O dia de coleta foi o dia zero (D0, sendo o sêmen conservado durante cinco dias, com análises diárias no D0 e nos quatro dias seguintes (D1, D2, D3 e D4. A avaliação da qualidade espermática baseou-se nos resultados do vigor espermático, da porcentagem de células móveis, da morfologia espermática, da integridade da membrana plasmática e dos resultados de fertilidade. As avaliações do vigor espermático (4,1 e da porcentagem de espermatozoides móveis (91% ficaram acima dos parâmetros mínimos exigidos (3,0 e 70% para sua utilização em programas de inseminação artificial, pois não houve influência sobre as variáveis analisadas pelo protocolo experimental. O resultado médio da resistência osmótica foi de 71,3% de espermatozoides com cauda enrolada. Não houve diferenças entre os dois diluentes testados para a característica células com acrossoma intacto (BTS = 67,1%; ACP = 71,2%. O sêmen diluído em ACP apresentou maior número de células vivas (77,7 % com membrana plasmática íntegra (74,2% após a conservação. A escolha do diluente ACP é aconselhável para uso de rotina em laboratórios que trabalhem com conservação de sêmen suíno. Apesar dos bons resultados in vitro obtidos com o diluente ACP, o BTS apresentou os melhores resultados de fertilidade, 86,7% e 96,7%, respectivamente.The semen of eight boars was collected and a total of 1.75x10(9 spermatozoa were separated from each ejaculate, obtaining a concentration of 35x10(6sptz/mL. The Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS was used as control, being tested the powder coconut water as extender (PCW. The day of collection was considered day zero (D0, and the semen was conserved for five days, with analyses on D0 and on

  11. Estudio de prefactibilidad para el diseño de una planta de etanol a partir de residuos de cosecha de caña de azúcar (Pre-feasibility study for design of a ethanol plant from waste of sugar sugarcane

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yenny del Carmen Velásquez Riascos

    2016-09-01

    Full Text Available En el Valle del Cauca se generan alrededor de 5 millones de toneladas anuales de desechos lignocelulósicos de la caña de azúcar, constituidos principalmente por hojas y cogollos. Esta biomasa dependiendo de su variedad, posee un estimado promedio en peso de 42% de celulosa, 26% de hemicelulosa y 22% de lignina en base seca, siendo apta para obtener azúcares fermentables para conseguir etanol deshidratado como combustible. Basados en las anteriores consideraciones, el grupo de investigación en biocombustibles y biorefinerías de la Escuela de Ingeniería Química de la Universidad del Valle junto con el Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Universidad Autónoma de Occidente, viene ajustando el diseño de una planta de obtención de etanol a partir de las hojas y cogollos que son dejados en el suelo tras realizar la cosecha de la caña de azúcar, por esta razón el presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo estudiar la prefactibilidad de montar la planta para la producción de etanol como producto principal y de otras sustancias que puedan ser aprovechables (lignina y proteína a partir de estos residuos lignocelulósicos. Para este estudio se hizo uso de los estudios experimentales previos ejecutados por los investigadores del grupo en biocombustibles y realizando el proceso a partir de 1000 toneladas de hojas y cogollos usando los datos de pruebas realizadas en el laboratorio y mediante cálculos de balances, que fueron incluidos en un simulador comercial Aspen Plus versión 10.8.1. Se logró obtener 121.000 litros/día de etanol anhidro con un rendimiento del 78,57% y 202 ton/día en base seca de lignina con 94,5% y 6,4 ton/día de proteína con 40% de recuperación como subproductos principales. El análisis económico muestra que la capacidad mínima de la planta de producción es de 285.000 litros/día, presentada a una tasa interna de retorno de 34% y VPN de US$ 36.839.602. (Abstract. In Valle of Cauca are grown around 100,153 hectares of

  12. Beginning Teachers' Self-Efficacy and Stress and the Supposed Effects of Induction Arrangements

    Science.gov (United States)

    Helms-Lorenz, Michelle; Slof, Bert; Vermue, Carlien E.; Canrinus, Esther T.

    2012-01-01

    Induction arrangements are implemented in schools all over the world to support beginning teachers (BTs) (novices) in gradually growing into their profession. The aim of this study is to gain more insight into two key psychological processes involved in the work of a qualified beginning teacher, namely perceived stress and self-efficacy. This…

  13. Effect of cryoprotectant on the cryopreservation of | Mapeka | South ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    The study evaluated the effect of different cryoprotectants on post-thaw survival and motility of Kolbroek sperm. Semen from Kolbroek boars was collected with the gloved hand technique. Ejaculates were diluted with Beltsville thawing solution (BTS) at a ratio of 1 : 1 prior to freezing. Semen was diluted with egg yolk tris; ...

  14. 78 FR 54596 - Airworthiness Directives; AgustaWestland S.p.A. (Type Certificate Formerly Held by Agusta S.p.A...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-09-05

    ... Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p... relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might result from adopting the... exceeded their life limit. The BTs also provide instructions for mixed usage of the affected blades. The...

  15. 14 CFR Section 21 - Introduction to System of Reports

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-01-01

    ... classification of large certificated air carriers into Group I, Group II, and Group III with the form and content differentiated as between groups. (d) Each schedule of the prescribed BTS Form 41 Report has been assigned a... U.S. Virgin Islands, and shall also include Canadian transborder operations. The reports to be...

  16. Incidencia de enfermedades en pejibaye (bactris gasipaes kunth para palmito

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carlos Arroyo

    2004-01-01

    Full Text Available Incidencia de enfermedades en pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes Kunth para palmito. Se determinó la incidencia de enfermedades en cuatro variedades de palmito de pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes Kunth, durante los 12 primeros meses de desarrollo. Tres de ellas sin espinas (Diamantes-1, Diamantes- 10 y Diamantes-20 y una con espinas (Utilis-Tucurrique. El ensayo se efectuó en la región de Guápiles, Costa Rica, de mayo del 2000 a abril del 2001. Los patógenos que se encontraron en las plantas de pejibaye fueron: Colletotrichum sp., (mancha negra de las hojas; Phytophthora palmivora, (pudrición cogollo u hoja guía; Drechslera setariae, (mancha de anillo; Lasiodiplodia theobromae (hoja deshilachada y Erwinia sp., (pudrición del tallo, quema de hojas y hoja guía. La variedad Utilis-Tucurrique, presentó la mayor susceptibilidad a todas las enfermedades, pero en ningún caso éstas llegaron a un nivel de importancia económica. La incidencia de Erwinia sp. y Phytophothora palmivora mostró mayor relación con la precipitación y alta temperatura.

  17. Trophic transfer and in vivo immunotoxicological effects of tributyltin (TBT) in polar seastar Leptasterias polaris

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bekri, Khalida; Pelletier, Emilien

    2004-01-01

    This study investigated the potential in vivo immunotoxic effects of tributyltin (TBT) on amoebocytes of 6-armed seastar Leptasterias polaris. Tested animals were contaminated by trophic transfer via alive contaminated prey consisting of blue mussels (3 μg TBT g -1 wet weight (WW) tissue) exposed to seawater containing dissolved TBT. Four biomarkers of immunotoxicological effects were monitored over 45 days at different sampling times (9, 24, 48 and 72 h, 11, 18, 25, 32 and 45 days): amoebocytes count (AC), cell viability using Trypan blue exclusion test, phagocytic activity (PA) using a suspension of dead bacteria labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and injected directly in the coelomic fluid of the animals, and lysosomal integrity (LI) using the neutral red (NR) retention test. Data showed that TBT and its metabolites (DBT and MBT) bioaccumulated preferentially in pyloric caeca, whereas gonads contained only small quantities. Despite the differences in exposure periods to the contaminated diet and in burdens of butyltins (BTs) ingested by the various contaminated groups, there were no significant differences in body burdens of BTs. Only 6.2±2.0% of total ingested BTs were retained in soft tissues of seastars. Even if butyltins were not detected in the coelomic fluid (CF), their detrimental effects have been detected in the phagocytic activity of amoebocytes and their lysosomal retention of neutral red, but no effects were observed on amoebocytes count and their viability. These results show that seastar L. polaris possesses adequate mechanisms to depurate ingested TBT without supporting major disturbances of its immune defence system. By their ability to digest whole contaminated prey and eliminate only dissolved metabolites, L. polaris and other seastars with the same preying mode could play a role of 'recycling organisms' in coastal environments where toxicants, such as butyltins and other metallic species are accumulated by bivalves and

  18. Body temperatures in dinosaurs: what can growth curves tell us?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Griebeler, Eva Maria

    2013-01-01

    To estimate the body temperature (BT) of seven dinosaurs Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006) used an equation that predicts BT from the body mass and maximum growth rate (MGR) with the latter preserved in ontogenetic growth trajectories (BT-equation). The results of these authors evidence inertial homeothermy in Dinosauria and suggest that, due to overheating, the maximum body size in Dinosauria was ultimately limited by BT. In this paper, I revisit this hypothesis of Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006). I first studied whether BTs derived from the BT-equation of today's crocodiles, birds and mammals are consistent with core temperatures of animals. Second, I applied the BT-equation to a larger number of dinosaurs than Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006) did. In particular, I estimated BT of Archaeopteryx (from two MGRs), ornithischians (two), theropods (three), prosauropods (three), and sauropods (nine). For extant species, the BT value estimated from the BT-equation was a poor estimate of an animal's core temperature. For birds, BT was always strongly overestimated and for crocodiles underestimated; for mammals the accuracy of BT was moderate. I argue that taxon-specific differences in the scaling of MGR (intercept and exponent of the regression line, log-log-transformed) and in the parameterization of the Arrhenius model both used in the BT-equation as well as ecological and evolutionary adaptations of species cause these inaccuracies. Irrespective of the found inaccuracy of BTs estimated from the BT-equation and contrary to the results of Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006) I found no increase in BT with increasing body mass across all dinosaurs (Sauropodomorpha, Sauropoda) studied. This observation questions that, due to overheating, the maximum size in Dinosauria was ultimately limited by BT. However, the general high inaccuracy of dinosaurian BTs derived from the BT-equation makes a reliable test of whether body size in dinosaurs was ultimately limited

  19. The effect of Base Transceiver Station waves on some immunological and hematological factors in exposed persons.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Taheri, Mohammad; Roshanaei, Ghodratollah; Ghaffari, Jamileh; Rahimnejad, Samira; Khosroshahi, Behzad Nazel; Aliabadi, Mohsen; Eftekharian, Mohammad Mahdi

    2017-01-01

    Since the number of mobile subscribers has significantly increased in recent years, the installation and deployment of Base Transceiver Station (BTS) antennas sending and receiving signals has become common and inevitable in different regions. In this study, we have tried to evaluate the effect of the waves on some immunological and hematological parameters in exposed individuals. In this study, the exposed and non-exposed individuals were used as the test and control groups, respectively. The test group was healthy people who resided in the vicinity of the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) antenna and received the maximum of radiation. The control group was selected from the healthy individuals that were matched with the exposed group by age. They resided in a distance of Base Transceiver Station (BTS) antenna and received the minimum of radiation. After stating complete explanations and obtaining the consent, the venous blood samples were taken from them. Then, CBC and the level of cytokines including IL-4, IL-10 and interferon γ were performed on the samples and the results were analyzed by SPSS software. In the test group, the whole number of white blood cells, the level of hematocrit, percent of monocytes, eosinophils and basophils were significantly lower than the control group. The number of red blood cells, their average volume and the mean concentration of hemoglobin were notably higher than the controls. There was not observed a significant difference between the two groups in hemoglobin, its mean concentration, platelet count, percent of lymphocytes and neutrophils as well as serum levels of cytokines IL-4, IL-10 and interferon γ . It seems that radiation of mobile phone antennas influenced the blood and immune systems, but further study should be done to exactly determine the targets.

  20. Quality indicators for discarding blood in the National Blood Center, Kuala Lumpur

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mohammed Morish

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Background and Objective: The implementation of quality system and continuous evaluation of all activities of the Blood Transfusion Services (BTS can help to achieve the maximum quantity and quality of safe blood. Optimizing blood collection and processing would reduce the rate of discard and improve the efficiency of the BTS. The objective of this study is to determine the rate of discard of blood and blood component and identify its reasons at the National Blood Centre (NBC, Kuala Lumpur, during the year of 2007 in order to introduce appropriate intervention. Study Designs and Methods: Data on the number of discarded whole blood units and its components, reasons for discard, and the number of blood components processed as well as the number of collected blood units were obtained from the Blood Bank Information System - NBC database. These were analyzed. Results: The total number of blood units collected in 2007 was 171169 from which 390636 units of components were prepared. The total number of discarded whole blood units and its components was 8968 (2.3%. Platelet concentrate recorded the highest of discard at 6% (3909 followed by whole blood at 3.7% (647, fresh frozen plasma (FFP at 2.5% (2839, and cryoprecipitate at 2% (620. The rate of discarded packed red blood cells RBCs, plasma aphaeresis, and PLT aphaeresis was less than 1% at 0.6% (902, 0.6% (37, and 0.29% (14, respectively. RBC contamination of PLT and plasma were the major cause of discard at 40% (3558. Other causes include leakage (26% - 2306, lipemia (25% - 2208, and underweight (4% - 353. Conclusion: Good donor selection, training and evaluation of the staff, as well as implementation of automation will help to improve processes and output of BTS. This would reduce discard of blood components and wastage caused by non conformance.

  1. Comparison of different extenders and storage temperature on the ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    Semen was pooled and randomly allocated to four groups and diluted at a ratio of 1:1 (v/v) with Beltsville thawing solution (BTS), Kobidil+, egg yolk citrate (EYC) and non-extended semen (Control). Each extender had two similar semen samples, making a total of eight samples. Extended and non-extended semen were ...

  2. ISSN 2073 ISSN 2073-9990 East Cent. Afr. J. surg. (Online) 9990 ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    DELL

    Page 69. 12. Aldemir M, Yagnur Y, Tacyildir I. The predictive factors for the necessity of operative treatment in adhesive small bowel obstruction cases. Acta Chir Belg 2004; 104; 76-80. 13. Fevang BTS, Fevang J, Lie SA, Soriede O, Svanes K, Viste A. Long-term prognosis after operation for adhesive small bowel obstruction.

  3. (1818-1858). Die kerklike Afskeiding wat in 1859 in Suid-Afrika ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    Test

    *)Dr. G. Keizer: De Afscheiding van 1834, b)s. 51-94-. *) P. J. Meertens: Johan Willem Vygeboom, in Neder). Archief voor Kerkgeschie denis, N S. XXVII 1935, Ms. 32; A. Blokhuis, Uit de Oude Doos. Wat een eeuw geleden te Bunschoten en Spakenburg geschied is, bts. 180-184-. ') Verskillende voorbeelde kan gevind word, ...

  4. A survey on electromagnetic interferences on aircraft avionics systems and a GSM on board system overview

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vinto, Natale; Tropea, Mauro; Fazio, Peppino; Voznak, Miroslav

    2014-05-01

    Recent years have been characterized by an increase in the air traffic. More attention over micro-economic and macroeconomic indexes would be strategic to gather and enhance the safety of a flight and customer needing, for communicating by wireless handhelds on-board aircrafts. Thus, European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) proposed a GSM On Board (GSMOBA) system as a possible solution, allowing mobile terminals to communicate through GSM system on aircraft, avoiding electromagnetic interferences with radio components aboard. The main issues are directly related with interferences that could spring-out when mobile terminals attempt to connect to ground BTS, from the airplane. This kind of system is able to resolve the problem in terms of conformance of Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) limits, defined outside the aircraft, by using an On board BTS (OBTS) and modeling the relevant key RF parameters on the air. The main purpose of this work is to illustrate the state-of-the-art of literature and previous studies about the problem, giving also a good detail of technical and normative references.

  5. New Radiofrequency Exposure System with Real Telecommunication Signals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jakub Misek

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of studies on biological effects of Electromagnetic (EM fields emitted from Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs. The biological effects of generated and real telecommunication signals produced by different types of exposure systems are discussed. However, the proper exposure methods for such experiments are very limited. We successfully developed a simple and cost-effective exposure unit with real GSM/DCS/UMTS signal from BTS containing proper modulations or intermittence (continuous, interrupted. Signal processing and conditioning unit is based on a Radiofrequency (RF repeater. The downlink signal is filtered by integrated high selectivity passband filters and amplified to a required level. The main part of exposure unit is a Faraday cage with the specimen (exposure area measuring 150 x 250 mm with E-field percent deviation less than 18%. This exposure system can be helpful in experiments with living organisms in in vivo studies and in vitro studies with normal or pathological cells and other micro scale structures being exposed to RF EM fields from BTS.

  6. Changes in bacillus thuringiensis tolerance levels due to hybridization of Bt-tolerant and susceptible silkworm populations

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Begumad, H.A.; Hassana, E.; Dingleb, J.; Alshehic, A.A.

    2012-01-01

    Males and females of a Bt-tolerant mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) population were crossed with females and males of a Bt-susceptible population, to produce Bt-tolerant silkworm hybrids, and to determine the expression of the Bt-tolerance pattern in the F 1 hybrids. It was observed that when a Bt-tolerant (42% larval mortality) female (BtT ) silkworm was crossed with a Bt-susceptible (85% larval mortality) male (BtS ), the resultant F 1 offspring showed lower levels of Bt-tolerance (87% larval mortality). On the other hand, when a Bt-tolerant male (BtT ) was crossed with a Bt-susceptible female (BtS ), the F 1 hybrid showed higher levels of Bt-tolerance (35% larval mortality) characteristic. The probit statistics showed that both hybrids expressed Bt-tolerance or susceptible levels similar to their male parents. These different patterns of Bt-tolerance in F 1 hybrids might be due to the transferring of a Bt-tolerant gene, from the parents to offspring, through the homozygotic male (ZZ) silkworm. (author)

  7. Sistem Informasi Akuntansi Penjualan, Piutang, dan Penerimaan Kas pada PT Nakami Kinema Cemerlang

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Heri Sukendar

    2010-05-01

    Full Text Available PT Nakami Kinema Cemerlang is one of Indonesia`s telecommunication infrastructure contractor company. The company business’ process is into BTS (Base Transceiver Station infrastructures projects, which engaged in the construction and erection of telecommunication towers, BTS CME works and SITAC projects. Currently, the company is faced with the issues in negligence according to account receivable recording and billing processes. these are because the performance on the current system is not maximized in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, the writer will conduct an analysis on the existing system and to design a proposed new system. The new Accounting Information Systems on Sales, Receivables, and Cash receipts will cover the process of recording documents on the project contracts, project sales orders, demand for material requirements, the status updates of project development, billing progress for the completed project phases right up to the receipt payments. By the data processing, information will be presented in the form of reports to managers in need of management purposes and board of directors to support decision making. 

  8. Effects of vacuum-ultraviolet irradiation on copper penetration into low-k dielectrics under bias-temperature stress

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Guo, X.; Zheng, H.; Xue, P.; Shohet, J. L. [Plasma Processing and Technology Laboratory and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706 (United States); King, S. W. [Logic Technology Development, Intel Corporation, Hillsboro, Oregon 97124 (United States); Nishi, Y. [Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305 (United States)

    2015-01-05

    The effects of vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) irradiation on copper penetration into non-porous low-k dielectrics under bias-temperature stress (BTS) were investigated. By employing x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth-profile measurements on both as-deposited and VUV-irradiated SiCOH/Cu stacks, it was found that under the same BTS conditions, the diffusion depth of Cu into the VUV-irradiated SiCOH is higher than that of as-deposited SiCOH. On the other hand, under the same temperature-annealing stress (TS) without electric bias, the Cu distribution profiles in the VUV-irradiated SiCOH were same with that for the as-deposited SiCOH. The experiments suggest that in as-deposited SiCOH, the diffused Cu exists primarily in the atomic state, while in VUV-irradiated SiCOH, the diffused Cu is oxidized by the hydroxyl ions (OH{sup −}) generated from VUV irradiation and exists in the ionic state. The mechanisms for metal diffusion and ion injection in VUV irradiated low-k dielectrics are discussed.

  9. 2016 Billion-Ton Report: Advancing Domestic Resources for a Thriving Bioeconomy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    None

    2016-07-06

    This product builds on previous efforts, namely the 2005 Billion-Ton Study (BTS) and the 2011 U.S. Billion-Ton Update (BT2).With each report, greater perspective is gained on the potential of biomass resources to contribute to a national energy strategy. Similarly, each successive report introduces new questions regarding commercialization challenges. BTS quantified the broad biophysical potential of biomass nationally, and BT2 elucidated the potential economic availability of these resources. These reports clearly established the potential availability of up to one billion tons of biomass resources nationally. However, many questions remain, including but not limited to crop yields, climate change impacts, logistical operations, and systems integration across production, harvest, and conversion. The present report aims to address many of these questions through empirically modeled energy crop yields, scenario analysis of resources delivered to biorefineries, and the addition of new feedstocks. Volume 2 of the 2016 Billion-Ton Report is expected to be released by the end of 2016. It seeks to evaluate environmental sustainability indicators of select scenarios from volume 1 and potential climate change impacts on future supplies.

  10. Bulletin of Materials Science | Indian Academy of Sciences

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    The relative dielectric permittivity, dielectric loss and loss tangent were measured at temperature range from room temperature up to 150°C and at frequency values 1 kHz, 10 kHz and 50 kHz. Addition of BTS to PC host, however, will increase relative dielectric permittivity, dielectric loss and loss tangent. Besides, increasing ...

  11. OOR DIE METODE VAN ONS KERKGESKIEDSKRYWING EN OOR ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    Test

    ... oor dieselfde saak bestaan albei se uitsprake in ag te neem'). Die skrywer verwyt prof. Engelbrecht dat hy hom nie hieraan gehou het nie omdat hy alleen vermeld dat die Hervormde Kerk met die koms van Jan van Riebeeck aan die. Kaap geplant is en verswyg dat „Gereformeerd" ook sy intrede hiermee. *) a.ic., bts. 6v.

  12. A Framework to Assist Health Professionals in Recommending High-Quality Apps for Supporting Chronic Disease Self-Management: Illustrative Assessment of Type 2 Diabetes Apps.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hale, Kelli; Capra, Sandra; Bauer, Judith

    2015-09-14

    This paper presents an approach to assist health professionals in recommending high quality apps for supporting chronic disease self-management. Most app reviews focus on popularity, aesthetics, functionality, usability, and information quality. There is no doubt these factors are important in selecting trustworthy apps which are appealing to users, but behavioral theory may be also be useful in matching the apps to user needs. The framework developed aims to be methodologically sound, capable of selecting popular apps which include content covered by evidence-based programs, consistent with behavioral theory, as well as a patient-centered approach for matching apps to patients' individual needs. A single disease-type 2 diabetes-was selected to illustrate how the framework can be applied as this was deemed to represent the types of strategies used in many chronic diseases. A systematic approach based on behavioral theory and recommendations from best practice guidelines was developed for matching apps to patients' needs. In March 2014, a series of search strategies was used to identify top-rated iPhone and Android health apps, representing 29 topics from five categories of type 2 diabetes self-management strategies. The topics were chosen from published international guidelines for the management of diabetes. The senior author (KH) assessed the most popular apps found that addressed these topics using the Behavioral Theory Content Survey (BTS), which is based on traditional behavioral theory. A tool to assist decision making when using apps was developed and trialed with health professionals for ease of use and understanding. A total of 14 apps were assessed representing all five topic categories of self-management. Total theoretical scores (BTS scores) were less than 50 on a 100-point scale for all apps. Each app scored less than 50% of the total possible BTS score for all four behavioral theories and for most of the 20 behavioral strategies; however, apps scored

  13. Effect of egg storage duration and brooding temperatures on chick growth, intestine morphology and nutrient transporters.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yalcin, S; Gursel, I; Bilgen, G; Horuluoglu, B H; Gucluer, G; Izzetoglu, G T

    2017-10-01

    The effects of egg storage duration (ESD) and brooding temperature (BT) on BW, intestine development and nutrient transporters of broiler chicks were investigated. A total of 396 chicks obtained from eggs stored at 18°C for 3 days (ESD3-18°C) or at 14°C for 14 days (ESD14-14°C) before incubation were exposed to three BTs. Temperatures were initially set at 32°C, 34°C and 30°C for control (BT-Cont), high (BT-High) and low (BT-Low) BTs, respectively. Brooding temperatures were decreased by 2°C each at days 2, 7, 14 and 21. Body weight was measured at the day of hatch, 2, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 42. Cloacal temperatures of broilers were recorded from 1 to 14 days. Intestinal morphology and gene expression levels of H+-dependent peptide transporter (PepT1) and Na-dependent glucose (SGLT1) were evaluated on the day of hatch and 14. Cloacal temperatures of chicks were affected by BTs from days 1 to 8, being the lowest for BT-Low chicks. BT-High resulted in the heaviest BWs at 7 days, especially for ESD14-14°C chicks. This result was consistent with longer villus and larger villus area of ESD14-14°C chicks at BT-High conditions. From 14 days to slaughter age, BT had no effect on broiler weight. ESD3-18°C chicks were heavier than ESD14-14°C chicks up to 28 days. The PepT1 and SGLT1 expression levels were significantly higher in ESD3-18°C chicks than ESD14-14°C on the day of hatch. There was significant egg storage by BT interaction for PepT1 and SGLT1 transporters at day 14. ESD14-14°C chicks had significantly higher expression of PepT1 and SGLT1 at BT-Low than those at BT-Cont. ESD14-14°C chicks upregulated PepT1 gene expression 1.15 and 1.57-fold at BT-High and BT-Low, respectively, compared with BT-Cont, whereas PepT1 expression was downregulated 0.67 and 0.62-fold in ESD3-18°C chicks at BT-High and BT-Low. These results indicated that pre-incubation egg storage conditions and BTs affected intestine morphology and PepT1 and SGLT1 nutrient transporters

  14. Mountain Permafrost in the Yukon Territory, Canada: Mapping and Modelling

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lewkowicz, A. G.; Bonnaventure, P.; Schultz, E.; Etzelmuller, B.

    2006-12-01

    The distribution and characteristics of mountain permafrost in North America are poorly known compared to lowland permafrost, and predictions of climatic change impacts are therefore subject to a higher degree of uncertainty. Recent DC resistivity soundings in association with borehole temperature information in the Yukon Territory, show the wide range of permafrost conditions that can exist at sites separated by short distances. To provide baseline information for future modelling, efforts are underway to produce a detailed map of permafrost probability in the mountains of the southern half of the Yukon Territory (60-65°N), an area greater than 200 x 103km2. The methodology is based on the Basal Temperature of Snow (BTS) technique, first developed in the European Alps. Ground surface temperatures measured at the base of snow > 80 cm thick in late winter are an indicator of permafrost presence or absence. We have used this method successfully in three study areas of about 200 km2: first, Wolf Creek basin near Whitehorse (Lewkowicz and Ednie, 2004) and now the western side of the Ruby Range adjacent to Kluane Lake, and the Haines Summit area in northwestern British Columbia. In each area, (1) we installed miniature temperature loggers at the ground surface and in the air to check on the timing of the BTS measurements; (2) we measured BTS values in the elevation zone across which permafrost was expected to become widespread; (3) we modelled the BTS spatial field using elevation (from a 30 m DEM) and potential incoming solar radiation (PISR) as the independent variables; and (4) we used logistic regression to compare the modelled BTS values with pit observations made in late-summer of the presence or absence of frozen ground. Both elevation and PISR were significant in the Wolf Creek and Ruby Range sites which have relatively continental climates and fall within the Upper Yukon-Stikine Basin climatic region (Wahl et al., 1987). For the Haines Summit area, however

  15. Journal of Earth System Science | Indian Academy of Sciences

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    AMSU-B brings out intense convection as a large depression of BTs (< 50K) at 150/176 GHz, cirrus and moist bands at 180/182 GHz. Mesoscale convection lines within WDs that last short time are shown here for the first time only in the AMSU-B images. Large-scale cirrus features are separated using the á trous wavelet ...

  16. Improving post-stroke cognitive and behavioral abnormalities by using virtual reality: A case report on a novel use of nirvana.

    Science.gov (United States)

    De Luca, Rosaria; Torrisi, Michele; Piccolo, Adriana; Bonfiglio, Giovanni; Tomasello, Provvidenza; Naro, Antonino; Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore

    2017-10-11

    Cognitive impairment, as well as mood and anxiety disorders, occur frequently in patients following stroke. Aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a combined rehabilitative treatment using conventional relaxation and respiratory techniques, in a specific rehabilitative virtual environment (by using Bts-Nirvana). A 58-year-old woman, affected by hemorrhagic stroke, underwent two different rehabilitation trainings, including either standard relaxation techniques alone in a common clinical setting or the same psychological approach in a semi-immersive virtual environment with an augmented sensorial (audio-video) and motor feedback (sensory motor-interaction). We evaluated the patient's cognitive and psychological profile before and after the two different trainings, by using a specific psychometric battery, aimed to assess cognitive status, attention processes and to estimate the presence of mood alterations, anxiety and coping strategies. Only at the end of the combined approach, we observed a significant improvement in attention and memory functions, with a nearly complete relief of anxiety symptoms and an improvement in coping strategies. Relaxation and respiratory techniques in a semi-immersive virtual reality environment, using Bts-Nirvana, may be a promising tool in improving attention process, coping strategies, and anxiety in individuals with neurological disorders, including stroke.

  17. The utility of a video game system in rehabilitation of burn and nonburn patients: a survey among occupational therapy and physiotherapy practitioners.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fung, Vera; So, Ken; Park, Esther; Ho, Aileen; Shaffer, Jennifer; Chan, Elaine; Gomez, Manuel

    2010-01-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate perceptions of occupational therapists and physiotherapists on the use of Nintendo Wii™ (Nintendo of America Inc., Redmond, WA) in rehabilitation. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists in a rehabilitation hospital trialed four Wii games that addressed physical movement, balance, coordination, and cognitive performance. Then, they completed an opinion survey on the utility of Wii in rehabilitation. The results were compared between burn care therapists (BTs) and nonburn care therapists, using chi(2) with a P benefit from Wii intervention but not cardiac (43%) or organ transplant patients (18%). Participants believed that outcomes using Wii could be measured reliably (49%), and skills learned while playing could be transferable to daily function (60%). The significant differences between BTs and nonburn care therapists' perceptions are that BT-treated younger patients (21-40 years vs >60 years, P benefit of Wii in rehabilitation (93% vs 58%, P = .02), specifically in burn rehabilitation (85% vs 39%, P = .001). Occupational therapists and physiotherapists favored the use of Wii in rehabilitation as an adjunct to traditional therapy because it is therapeutic, engaging, and may increase patient participation in rehabilitation.

  18. Mapping of Novel QTL Regulating Grain Shattering Using Doubled Haploid Population in Rice (Oryza sativa L.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gyu-Ho Lee

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The critical evolutionary step during domestication of major cereals was elimination of seed shattering because the easy-to-shatter trait in wild relatives results in a severe reduction in yield. In this study, we analyzed the QTLs associated with shattering employing a high-density genetic map in doubled haploid (DH population of rice (Oryza sativa L.. A genetic linkage map was generated with 217 microsatellite markers spanning 2082.4 cM and covering 12 rice chromosomes with an average interval of 9.6 cM between markers based on 120 DHLs derived from a cross between Cheongcheong indica type cultivar and Nagdong japonica type cultivar. In the QTL analysis, five QTLs pertaining to the breaking tensile strength (BTS were detected in 2013 and 2015. Two regions of the QTLs related to BTS on chromosome 1 and chromosome 6 were detected. Several important genes are distributed in 1 Mbp region of the QTL on chromosome 6 and they are related to the formation of abscission layer. We decide to name this QTL qSh6 and the candidate genes in the qSh6 region can be employed usefully in further research for cloning.

  19. Radioprotection rayonnements, dosimétrie, protection

    CERN Document Server

    Marey, Gérard

    2014-01-01

    Pour tous les travailleurs du nucléaire comme pour les étudiants des licences professionnelles et des BTS Environnement nucléaire et BTS radioprotection, l'ouvrage rassemble de façon progressive, claire et précise toutes les informations scientifiques et pratiques qui leur sont indispensables. Une première partie résume les données de base relatives à la structure de la matière, la stabilité des noyaux, les différents rayonnements, leur énergie et la décroissance radioactive. La deuxième partie constitue une approche progressive de la radioprotection s'appuyant sur l'influence des rayonnement sur la matière pour définir les notions de dose et aborder le dimensionnement des protections biologiques et des éléments de ventilation. Enfin, la dernière partie traite de la mise en oeuvre pratique de la radioprotection sur le terrain et de la gestion des déchets nucléaires en application de la technologie actuelle, de la réglementation et des directives imposées par l'exploitant qu'est EDF. De...

  20. Clocked lambda calculus †

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Endrullis, Jörg; Hendriks, Dimitri; Klop, Jan Willem; Polonsky, Andrew

    2017-01-01

    One of the best-known methods for discriminating λ-terms with respect to β-convertibility is due to Corrado Böhm. The idea is to compute the infinitary normal form of a λ-term M, the Böhm Tree (BT) of M. If λ-terms M, N have distinct BTs, then M ≠β N, that is, M and N are not β-convertible. But what

  1. The Influence of biol in the crop yield of Lactuca sativa L. variety Iceberg

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pomboza-Tamaquiza Pablo

    2016-11-01

    Full Text Available The objective of the research was to assess the influence of biol enriched with efficient micro-organisms, in the ecological cultivation of Lactuca sativa L (lettuce variety "Iceberg". The field test was carried out on the farm of Querochaca, Faculty of Sciences Agriculture, of the Technical University of Ambato. The studied factors were doses of biol (2%, 4% and 6% and frequencies of application (8 and 15 days, I know used the experimental design of complete blocks at random, with factorial arrangement of 3x2 1 with three repetitions. We evaluated: plant height, diameter of the main stem, days to harvest, weight and diameter of the bud commercial, performance in kg/plot neta and performance in kg/experimental unit, conducted the significance test of Duncan to 5%. The results showed that the dose of 6 per cent applied every 15 days treatment D3F2, contributed to the larger diameter of the bud commercial (25.9 cm; the greater weight of cogollo commercial (1.14 kg and the higher performance (549 kg/experimental unit. This suggests that the implementation of biol can be an important ecological alternative to fertilize organic farming as the lettuce by reducing the use of fertilizers in chemical synthesis and production costs.

  2. Body temperatures in dinosaurs: what can growth curves tell us?

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Eva Maria Griebeler

    Full Text Available To estimate the body temperature (BT of seven dinosaurs Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006 used an equation that predicts BT from the body mass and maximum growth rate (MGR with the latter preserved in ontogenetic growth trajectories (BT-equation. The results of these authors evidence inertial homeothermy in Dinosauria and suggest that, due to overheating, the maximum body size in Dinosauria was ultimately limited by BT. In this paper, I revisit this hypothesis of Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006. I first studied whether BTs derived from the BT-equation of today's crocodiles, birds and mammals are consistent with core temperatures of animals. Second, I applied the BT-equation to a larger number of dinosaurs than Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006 did. In particular, I estimated BT of Archaeopteryx (from two MGRs, ornithischians (two, theropods (three, prosauropods (three, and sauropods (nine. For extant species, the BT value estimated from the BT-equation was a poor estimate of an animal's core temperature. For birds, BT was always strongly overestimated and for crocodiles underestimated; for mammals the accuracy of BT was moderate. I argue that taxon-specific differences in the scaling of MGR (intercept and exponent of the regression line, log-log-transformed and in the parameterization of the Arrhenius model both used in the BT-equation as well as ecological and evolutionary adaptations of species cause these inaccuracies. Irrespective of the found inaccuracy of BTs estimated from the BT-equation and contrary to the results of Gillooly, Alleen, and Charnov (2006 I found no increase in BT with increasing body mass across all dinosaurs (Sauropodomorpha, Sauropoda studied. This observation questions that, due to overheating, the maximum size in Dinosauria was ultimately limited by BT. However, the general high inaccuracy of dinosaurian BTs derived from the BT-equation makes a reliable test of whether body size in dinosaurs was ultimately

  3. 3D hand motion trajectory prediction from EEG mu and beta bandpower.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Korik, A; Sosnik, R; Siddique, N; Coyle, D

    2016-01-01

    A motion trajectory prediction (MTP) - based brain-computer interface (BCI) aims to reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) trajectory of upper limb movement using electroencephalography (EEG). The most common MTP BCI employs a time series of bandpass-filtered EEG potentials (referred to here as the potential time-series, PTS, model) for reconstructing the trajectory of a 3D limb movement using multiple linear regression. These studies report the best accuracy when a 0.5-2Hz bandpass filter is applied to the EEG. In the present study, we show that spatiotemporal power distribution of theta (4-8Hz), mu (8-12Hz), and beta (12-28Hz) bands are more robust for movement trajectory decoding when the standard PTS approach is replaced with time-varying bandpower values of a specified EEG band, ie, with a bandpower time-series (BTS) model. A comprehensive analysis comprising of three subjects performing pointing movements with the dominant right arm toward six targets is presented. Our results show that the BTS model produces significantly higher MTP accuracy (R~0.45) compared to the standard PTS model (R~0.2). In the case of the BTS model, the highest accuracy was achieved across the three subjects typically in the mu (8-12Hz) and low-beta (12-18Hz) bands. Additionally, we highlight a limitation of the commonly used PTS model and illustrate how this model may be suboptimal for decoding motion trajectory relevant information. Although our results, showing that the mu and beta bands are prominent for MTP, are not in line with other MTP studies, they are consistent with the extensive literature on classical multiclass sensorimotor rhythm-based BCI studies (classification of limbs as opposed to motion trajectory prediction), which report the best accuracy of imagined limb movement classification using power values of mu and beta frequency bands. The methods proposed here provide a positive step toward noninvasive decoding of imagined 3D hand movements for movement-free BCIs.

  4. Preliminary Inter-Comparison between AHI, VIIRS and MODIS Clear-Sky Ocean Radiances for Accurate SST Retrievals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xingming Liang

    2016-03-01

    Full Text Available Clear-sky brightness temperatures (BT in five bands of the Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI; flown onboard Himawari-8 satellite centered at 3.9, 8.6, 10.4, 11.2, and 12.3 µm (denoted by IR37, IR86, IR10, IR11, and IR12, respectively are used in the NOAA Advanced Clear-Sky Processor for Oceans (ACSPO sea surface temperature (SST retrieval system. Here, AHI BTs are preliminarily evaluated for stability and consistency with the corresponding VIIRS and MODIS BTs, using the sensor observation minus model simulation (O-M biases and corresponding double differences. The objective is to ensure accurate and consistent SST products from the polar and geo sensors, and to prepare for the launch of the GOES-R satellite in 2016. All five AHI SST bands are found to be largely in-family with their polar counterparts, but biased low relative to the VIIRS and MODIS (which, in turn, were found to be stable and consistent, except for Terra IR86, which is biased high by 1.5 K. The negative biases are larger in IR37 and IR12 (up to ~−0.5 K, followed by the three remaining longwave IR bands IR86, IR10, and IR11 (from −0.3 to −0.4 K. These negative biases may be in part due to the uncertainties in AHI calibration and characterization, although uncertainties in the coefficients of the Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM, used to generate the “M” term may also contribute. Work is underway to add AHI analyses in the NOAA Monitoring of IR Clear-Sky Radiances over Oceans for SST (MICROS system and improve AHI BTs by collaborating with the sensor calibration and CRTM teams. The Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI analyses will be also added in MICROS when GOES-R is launched in late 2016 and the ABI IR data become available.

  5. An implementation for the algorithm of the Hirota bilinear Baecklund transformation of integrable hierarchies

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yu Guofu; Duan Qihua

    2010-01-01

    In this paper, based on the Hirota bilinear method, a reliable algorithm for generating the bilinear Baecklund transformation (BT) of integrable hierarchies is described. With the help of Maple symbolic computation the algorithm would be very helpful and powerful for looking for the bilinear BT of integrable systems especially for those high-order integrable hierarchies. The BTs of bilinear Ramani hierarchy are deduced for the first time by using the algorithm.

  6. Evidence for a link between mortality in acute COPD and hospital type and resources

    OpenAIRE

    Roberts, C; Barnes, S; Lowe, D; Pearson, M

    2003-01-01

    Background: The 1997 BTS/RCP national audit of acute care of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) found wide variations in mortality between hospitals which were only partially explained by known audit indicators of outcome. It was hypothesised that some of the unexplained variation may result from differences in hospital type, organisation and resources. This pilot study examined the hypothesis as a factor to be included in a future national audit programme.

  7. Analysis, Design and Implementation of a Networking Proof-of-Concept Prototype to Support Maritime Visit, Board, Search and Seizure Teams

    Science.gov (United States)

    2014-03-01

    information base MIO maritime interdiction operations MPU man portable unit NLOS non-line-of-site NMS network management system NOC...administrator. For smaller networks, the economic feasibility for a comprehensive NMS might not be worth the investment. Instead, an application designed to... MPU -4s with Samsung devices attached to host a variety of IP-based applications. These nodes were utilized by the BTs to sweep the vessel in a

  8. Trace elements in muscle of three fish species from Todos os Santos Bay, Bahia State, Brazil.

    Science.gov (United States)

    de Santana, Carolina Oliveira; de Jesus, Taíse Bomfim; de Aguiar, William Moura; de Jesus Sant'anna Franca-Rocha, Washington; Soares, Carlos Alberto Caroso

    2017-03-01

    In this study, an analysis was performed on the concentrations of the trace elements Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn in muscle of two carnivorous and one planktivorous fish species collected at Todos os Santos Bay (BTS). The accumulation order of the trace elements in Lutjanus analis was Al >Zn >Fe >Cr >Ba >Ni. In Cetengraulis edentulus, the order was Al >Fe >Zn >Cr >Ni >Mn >As. In the species Diapterus rhombeus, the order was Al >Fe >Zn >Cr >Ni >Mn >Cd. To determine the risk related to the consumption of fish, toxicity guidelines were used as standard references. It was observed that the species C. edentulus contained concentrations of As exceeding WHO limits, but these concentrations were acceptable according to the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) guidelines. Cd levels were found only in D. rhombeus and in low concentrations according to the determinations of WHO and ANVISA. Pb levels were not detected in any of the three fish species. The analyzed elements did not differ statistically according to the species and feeding habits. The results point to possible risks of human contamination by As related to the consumption of the fish species C. edentulus from the BTS.

  9. SOFT AND SOFTER HANDOVER PERFORMANCE OF CDMA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lina wati

    2010-12-01

    Full Text Available One of telecommunication providers in Indonesia applies CDMA2000 1x technology. The technology hasmany advantages such as larger channel capacity of BTS (Base Transceiver Station. On the other hand, thecapacity depends on user’s density. Therefore to guarantee voice connection when user or mobile station (MS isalways moving from one cell to others, handover technique is needed. However the technique can be failed for manyreasons. Therefore impact of call attempt on softer and soft handover performance is investigated. Hence the paperexamined soft – softer handover performance of CDMA in BTS (Base Transceiver Station, BSC, and Sectors inboth sub-urban and rural areas in Denpasar, Bali with area code of 0361.The research has been done in rural and suburban area with call area code ‘0361’. The analyses includedregression and simple linear correlation applications. The results showed that number of call attempts affected thefailure of soft and softer handover technique dominantly. Generally, average level of success both handover in bothrural and suburban area were about 99% which are above KPI (Key Performance Indicator reference at 98.50%.However in rural area, other factors such as blocking called attempt and error called number have caused the softerhandover failure.

  10. Multicentre external validation of the BIMC model for solid solitary pulmonary nodule malignancy prediction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Soardi, Gian Alberto; Perandini, Simone; Motton, Massimiliano; Montemezzi, Stefania [AOUI Verona, UOC Radiologia, Ospedale Maggiore di Borgo Trento, Verona (Italy); Larici, Anna Rita; Del Ciello, Annemilia [Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche, Roma (Italy); Rizzardi, Giovanna [UO Chirurgia Toracica, Ospedale Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo (Italy); Solazzo, Antonio [UO Radiologia, Ospedale Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo (Italy); Mancino, Laura [UO Pneumologia, Ospedale dell' Angelo di Mestre, Mestre (Italy); Bernhart, Marco [UO Radiologia, Ospedale dell' Angelo di Mestre, Mestre (Italy)

    2017-05-15

    To provide multicentre external validation of the Bayesian Inference Malignancy Calculator (BIMC) model by assessing diagnostic accuracy in a cohort of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) collected in a clinic-based setting. To assess model impact on SPN decision analysis and to compare findings with those obtained via the Mayo Clinic model. Clinical and imaging data were retrospectively collected from 200 patients from three centres. Accuracy was assessed by means of receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) areas under the curve (AUCs). Decision analysis was performed by adopting both the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and the British Thoracic Society (BTS) risk thresholds. ROC analysis showed an AUC of 0.880 (95 % CI, 0.832-0.928) for the BIMC model and of 0.604 (95 % CI, 0.524-0.683) for the Mayo Clinic model. Difference was 0.276 (95 % CI, 0.190-0.363, P < 0.0001). Decision analysis showed a slightly reduced number of false-negative and false-positive results when using ACCP risk thresholds. The BIMC model proved to be an accurate tool when characterising SPNs. In a clinical setting it can distinguish malignancies from benign nodules with minimal errors by adopting current ACCP or BTS risk thresholds and guiding lesion-tailored diagnostic and interventional procedures during the work-up. (orig.)

  11. Biogas barometer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    2014-01-01

    The energy recovery of biogas has kept on increasing in the European Union in 2013: +10.2%. Almost 13.4 million tep (tonnes of oil equivalent) of biogas primary energy was produced but the growth of the biogas sector is decreasing (it was 16.9% between 2011 and 2012). The growth for the coming years is expected to fall further because of political decisions in some countries to limit the use of land for farming purposes and to manage the biogas sector more efficiently. Germany ranks first for the production of biogas primary energy with 6717 ktep followed by United Kingdom with 1824 ktep. 2 tables give the production of electricity and heat from biogas in the E.U. member states in 2012 and 2013. The total production of electricity and heat from biogas in the E.U. in 2013 reached 53327 GWh and 432 ktep respectively. A list reviews the most significant companies working in Europe in the sector of methanation, 10 companies are listed among which 2 are Italian: AB Energy (Gruppo AB), BTS Italia and 8 are German: MT Energie, Envitec Biogas AG, Biogas Weser-Ems, Planet Biogastechnik, Schmack Biogas GmbH, Weltec Biopower GmbH, UTS Biogastechnik (Anaergia Group), Bioconstruct and BTS Italia. (A.C.)

  12. The Effect of Two Different Cognitive Tests on Gait Parameters during Dual Tasks in Healthy Postmenopausal Women

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Magdalena Hagner-Derengowska

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Introduction. The paper aims to evaluate the influence of two different demanding cognitive tasks on gait parameters using BTS SMART system analysis. Patients and Methods. The study comprised 53 postmenopausal women aged 64.5 ± 6.7 years (range: 47–79. For every subject, gait analysis using a BTS SMART system was performed in a dual-task study design under three conditions: (I while walking only (single task, (II walking while performing a simultaneous simple cognitive task (SCT (dual task, and (III walking while performing a simultaneous complex cognitive task (CCT (dual task. Time-space parameters of gait pertaining to the length of a single support phase, double support phase, gait speed, step length, step width, and leg swing speed were analyzed. Results. Performance of cognitive tests during gait resulted in a statistically significant prolongation of the left (by 7% and right (by 7% foot gait cycle, shortening of the length of steps made with the right extremity (by 4%, reduction of speed of swings made with the left (by 11% and right (by 8% extremity, and reduction in gait speed (by 6%. Conclusions. Performance of cognitive tests during gait changes its individual pattern in relation to the level of the difficulty of the task.

  13. Effects of storage in different semen extenders on the pre-freezing and post-thawing quality of boar spermatozoa.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dziekońska, A; Zasiadczyk, Ł; Lecewicz, M; Strzeżek, R; Koziorowska-Gilun, M; Fraser, L; Mogielnicka-Brzozowska, M; Kordan, W

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of storage of semen in different commercial extenders on the pre-freezing and post-thawing quality of boar spermatozoa. Semen was diluted in BTS, Androhep (AH) and Gedil (GD), stored for 24 h at 17°C, and then frozen in accordance with the cryopreservation protocol. Analyses of the quality of spermatozoa included: motility, normal apical ridge (NAR) acrosome, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), measurements of ATP content and activity of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Prior to the freezing process, no significant effect of the extender on the sperm quality parameters was noted. After thawing the spermatozoa it was demonstrated that the type of extender used influenced PMI, MMP, ATP content and activity of GPx. In the AH extender the percentage of spermatozoa with PMI and ATP content in spermatozoa was significantly higher (Pextenders. In addition, semen stored in the AH was characterised by a statistically higher (Pboar spermatozoa stored for 24 hours in liquid state can be used. However, the type of extender used prior to freezing may have a significant effect on the post-thawing quality of the spermatozoa. The AH extender better secured the quality of thawed boar spermatozoa as compared with the BTS or GD.

  14. USE OF ALTERNATIVE EXTENDERS AND TEMPERATURES IN LONG TERM STORAGE OF BOAR SEMEN

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lina Raquel Santos Araújo

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The use of appropriate extenders is important for the success of an artificial insemination program. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of alternative extenders for swine semen at different temperatures (17 to 10 °C. The following extenders were used: Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS, powdered coconut water (ACP-103®, and skimmed milk powder (LPD. The 50 ejaculates were analyzed daily, in natura and after dilution, during the 5-day period of semen preservation  (D0 to D4, regarding spermatic vigor and motility. Acrosome integrity and sperm viability were evaluated on D0 and D4. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney, Students, Tukey and chi-square tests (p<0.05. The LPD extender at 10 °C presented higher motility and sperm vigor compared to BTS and ACP until D2, and to treatments stored at 17 °C. Acrosome vitality and integrity remained higher (p<0.001 with LPD at 10 °C on D0 and D4. LPD showed to be a good extender for the swine semen at lower temperature (10 °C. Furthermore, it provided better protection to sperm cells, by allowing greater integrity and vitality of the acrosome. Keywords: coconut water; conservation; skimmed milk; semen boar.

  15. USO DE DILUENTES E TEMPERATURAS ALTERNATIVAS NA CONSERVAÇÃO PROLONGADA DO SÊMEN DO VARRÃO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lina Raquel Santos Araújo

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The use of appropriate extenders is important for the success of an artificial insemination program. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of alternative extenders for swine semen at different temperatures (17 to 10 °C. The following extenders were used: Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS, powdered coconut water (ACP-103®, and skimmed milk powder (LPD. The 50 ejaculates were analyzed daily, in natura and after dilution, during the 5-day period of semen preservation (D0 to D4, regarding spermatic vigor and motility. Acrosome integrity and sperm viability were evaluated on D0 and D4. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney, Students, Tukey and chi-square tests (p<0.05. The LPD extender at 10 °C presented higher motility and sperm vigor compared to BTS and ACP until D2, and to treatments stored at 17 °C. Acrosome vitality and integrity remained higher (p<0.001 with LPD at 10 °C on D0 and D4. LPD showed to be a good extender for the swine semen at lower temperature (10 °C. Furthermore, it provided better protection to sperm cells, by allowing greater integrity and vitality of the acrosome.

  16. Learning of Behavior Trees for Autonomous Agents

    OpenAIRE

    Colledanchise, Michele; Parasuraman, Ramviyas; Ögren, Petter

    2015-01-01

    Definition of an accurate system model for Automated Planner (AP) is often impractical, especially for real-world problems. Conversely, off-the-shelf planners fail to scale up and are domain dependent. These drawbacks are inherited from conventional transition systems such as Finite State Machines (FSMs) that describes the action-plan execution generated by the AP. On the other hand, Behavior Trees (BTs) represent a valid alternative to FSMs presenting many advantages in terms of modularity, ...

  17. Établissement de quelques valeurs usuelles des paramètres ...

    African Journals Online (AJOL)

    kits commerciaux (Biosystems®, S.A.,. Barcelona, Spain). Les dosages ont été effectués selon le protocole décrit par le fabricant. Les réactions colorimétriques ont été mesurées à l'aide d'un spectrophotomètre. (Biosystems-BTS 310®). Analyses statistiques. Les données ont été analysées avec le logiciel STATA S.E. 9.2®.

  18. Proceedings of the ATB Model Users Group Conference Held in Phoenix, Arizona on 8-9 February 1996.

    Science.gov (United States)

    1996-02-09

    310 Lookout Dr. Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Phone: 714-497-8446 Fax: 714-497-7013 E-mail: Dr. Kenneth J Saczalski Environmental Research & Safety...Technologists 310 Lookout Drive Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Phone: 714-497-8446 Fax: 714-497-7013 E-mail: Mr. Michael Shanahan BTS Consulting Engineers 1725 North...Weisenfeld Honda R&D 1900 Harpers Way Torrance, CA 90501 Phone: 310-781-5844 Fax: E-mail: Dr Narayan Yoganandan Medical College of Wisconsin

  19. BTS guideline for the investigation and management of malignant pleural mesothelioma.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Woolhouse, Ian; Bishop, Lesley; Darlison, Liz; de Fonseka, Duneesha; Edey, Anthony; Edwards, John; Faivre-Finn, Corinne; Fennell, Dean A; Holmes, Steve; Kerr, Keith M; Nakas, Apostolos; Peel, Tim; Rahman, Najib M; Slade, Mark; Steele, Jeremy; Tsim, Selina; Maskell, Nick A

    2018-01-01

    The full guideline for the investigation and management of malignant pleural mesothelioma is published in Thorax . The following is a summary of the recommendations and good practice points. The sections referred to in the summary refer to the full guideline.

  20. Permeation of hair dye ingredients, p-phenylenediamine and aminophenol isomers, through protective gloves.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lee, Hsiao-Shu; Lin, Yu-Wen

    2009-04-01

    Skin irritation and contact allergies are skin disorders common to hairdressers. The predominant oxidative hair dye components, such as p-phenylenediamine (PPD) and aminophenol isomers, can cause contact dermatitis. Use of protective gloves can prevent dermal contact with skin irritants. This study investigates the permeation behaviors of p-aminophenol (PAP), m-aminophenol (MAP), o-aminophenol (OAP) and PPD in single and mixed challenge solutions with disposable natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves, disposable polyvinylchloride (PVC) gloves and neoprene (NP) gloves. The challenge solutions were 4% PPD (w/v), 3% OAP (w/v), 2% PAP (w/v) and 2% MAP (w/v) in ethanol or 12% hydrogen peroxide solutions. The cocktail solutions of the four chemicals were also tested. An American Society for Testing and Materials type permeation cell, ethanol liquid collection and gas chromatography-flame ionization detection of samples taken from the collection medium every 10 min facilitated determination of breakthrough times (BTs), cumulative permeated masses and steady-state permeation rates (SSPRs). Experiments were 4 h long for the NRL and PVC gloves and 8 h for NP gloves. No chemicals tested broke through the NP gloves when exposed for 8 h. In the ethanol solution, PPD and OAP started breaking through the PVC gloves at 40 min. The SSPRs of PVC gloves were higher than those for NRL gloves in all challenge conditions for both single chemicals and mixtures. No tested chemicals in hydrogen peroxide solutions permeated the gloves during the 4-h tests. The chemical composition of the challenge solution was a main effecter of BTs and SSPRs for the NRL glove. For disposable PVC gloves, the main factors of BTs were molecular size [molar volume (MV)] and polarity (logK(ow)), and the primary factors of SSPRs were concentration, MV and logK(ow). In conclusion, disposable NRL gloves and disposable PVC gloves should not be used repeatedly for handling the hair dye products. Hydrogen peroxide did not

  1. Global Sea Surface Temperature: A Harmonized Multi-sensor Time-series from Satellite Observations

    Science.gov (United States)

    Merchant, C. J.

    2017-12-01

    This paper presents the methods used to obtain a new global sea surface temperature (SST) dataset spanning the early 1980s to the present, intended for use as a climate data record (CDR). The dataset provides skin SST (the fundamental measurement) and an estimate of the daily mean SST at depths compatible with drifting buoys (adjusting for skin and diurnal variability). The depth SST provided enables the CDR to be used with in situ records and centennial-scale SST reconstructions. The new SST timeseries is as independent as possible from in situ observations, and from 1995 onwards is harmonized to an independent satellite reference (namely, SSTs from the Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer (Advanced ATSR)). This maximizes the utility of our new estimates of variability and long-term trends in interrogating previous datasets tied to in situ observations. The new SSTs include full resolution (swath, level 2) data, single-sensor gridded data (level 3, 0.05 degree latitude-longitude grid) and a multi-sensor optimal analysis (level 4, same grid). All product levels are consistent. All SSTs have validated uncertainty estimates attached. The sensors used include all Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometers from NOAA-6 onwards and the ATSR series. AVHRR brightness temperatures (BTs) are calculated from counts using a new in-flight re-calibration for each sensor, ultimately linked through to the AATSR BT calibration by a new harmonization technique. Artefacts in AVHRR BTs linked to varying instrument temperature, orbital regime and solar contamination are significantly reduced. These improvements in the AVHRR BTs (level 1) translate into improved cloud detection and SST (level 2). For cloud detection, we use a Bayesian approach for all sensors. For the ATSRs, SSTs are derived with sufficient accuracy and sensitivity using dual-view coefficients. This is not the case for single-view AVHRR observations, for which a physically based retrieval is employed, using a hybrid

  2. MODERN TAKE-OFF POWER DIAGNOSTICS

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Milan Čoh

    2008-08-01

    Full Text Available Take-off power is one of the main biomotor abilities for predicting the results of many sport disciplines. It plays a particularly important role in motor situations when the take-off power is combined with the velocity of movement. The core aim of this study was to establish and analyse the fundamental kinematic, dynamic and electromyographic parameters which generate the results of selected take-off power tests. The experimental procedure involved two elite female triple jumpers. According to Bosco’s protocol the following tests were selected: squat jump, countermovement jump and drop jump – 25 cm. The following were analysed: jump height, take-off time, flight time, take-off velocity, maximum take-off force, angle velocity of the ankle, knee and hip joints, force impulse and duration of the eccentric and concen ric phases of take-off. The 3D-kinematic analysis of jumps was based on a system of nine SMART-e 600 video-cameras (BTS Bioengineering, with a 60 Hz frequency and a 768 x 576 pixel resolution. The kinematic parameters were processed using the BTS SMART Suite programme. Dynamic parameters were established by means of two separate force-plat forms, namely Kistler, Type 9286A. The analysis of the electromyographic activity (EMG of the following muscles: m. erector spinae, m. gluteus maximus, m. rectus femoris, m. vastus medialis, m. vastus lateralis, m. biceps femoris, m. tibialis anterior and m. gastrocnemius medialis was made using a 16-channel electromyograph (BTS Pocket EMG, MYOLAB. The research showed that the jump height (h as a criterion of explosive power was generated by: the velocity of take-off, flight time, force impulse in the concentric phase and optimal knee joint angle. The analysis of the EMG activation in vertical jumps showed the proximaldistal principle of muscle activation. In the first phase of the take-off action, the trunk extensors (m. erector spinae and hip extensors (m. gluteus maximus are activated. In the

  3. Measuring general and specific stress causes and stress responses among beginning secondary school teachers in the Netherlands

    OpenAIRE

    Harmsen, R; Helms-Lorenz, M.; Maulana, R; van Veen, K; van Veldhoven, M.J.P.M.

    2018-01-01

    The main aim of this study was to adjust the Questionnaire on the Experience and Evaluation of Work (QEEW) in order to measure stress causes and stress responses of beginning secondary school teachers in the Netherlands. First, the suitability of the original QEEW stress scales for use in the beginning teachers (BTs) context was investigated using a sample of 356 beginning teachers from 52 different secondary school locations in the Netherlands. Confirmatory Factor Analyses, Principal Compone...

  4. Measuring general and specific stress causes and stress responses among beginning secondary school teachers in the Netherlands.

    OpenAIRE

    Harmsen, Ruth; Helms-Lorenz, Michelle; Maulana, Ridwan; van Veen, Klaas; van Veldhoven, M.J.P.M.

    2018-01-01

    The main aim of this study was to adjust the Questionnaire on the Experience and Evaluation of Work (QEEW) in order to measure stress causes and stress responses of beginning secondary school teachers in the Netherlands. First, the suitability of the original QEEW stress scales for use in the beginning teachers (BTs) context was investigated using a sample of 356 beginning teachers from 52 different secondary school locations in the Netherlands. Confirmatory Factor Analyses, Principal Compone...

  5. Incentive Schemes for Participatory Sensing

    OpenAIRE

    Radanovic, Goran; Faltings, Boi

    2015-01-01

    We consider a participatory sensing scenario where a group of private sensors observes the same phenomenon, such as air pollution. Since sensors need to be installed and maintained, owners of sensors are inclined to provide inaccurate or random data. We design a novel payment mechanism that incentivizes honest behavior by scoring sensors based on the quality of their reports. The basic principle follows the standard Bayesian Truth Serum (BTS) paradigm, where highest rewards are obtained for r...

  6. Towards a better understanding and behavior recognition of inhabitants in smart cities. A public transport case

    OpenAIRE

    Klimek, Radoslaw; Kotulski, Leszek

    2015-01-01

    The idea of modern urban systems and smart cities requires monitoring and careful analysis of different signals. Such signals can originate from different sources and one of the most promising is the BTS, i.e. base transceiver station, an element of mobile carrier networks. This paper presents the fundamental problems of elicitation, classification and understanding of such signals so as to develop context-aware and pro-active systems in urban areas. These systems are characterized by the omn...

  7. The ZTF Bright Transient Survey

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fremling, C.; Sharma, Y.; Kulkarni, S. R.; Miller, A. A.; Taggart, K.; Perley, D. A.; Gooba, A.

    2018-06-01

    As a supplement to the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF; ATel #11266) public alerts (ATel #11685) we plan to report (following ATel #11615) bright probable supernovae identified in the raw alert stream from the ZTF Northern Sky Survey ("Celestial Cinematography"; see Bellm & Kulkarni, 2017, Nature Astronomy 1, 71) to the Transient Name Server (https://wis-tns.weizmann.ac.il) on a daily basis; the ZTF Bright Transient Survey (BTS; see Kulkarni et al., 2018; arXiv:1710.04223).

  8. Influence of Boar and Semen Parameters on Motility and Acrosome Integrity in Liquid Boar Semen Stored for Five Days

    Science.gov (United States)

    2002-01-01

    Ninety ejaculates from a total of 76 AI boars were extended in Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS). Boar identity, breed, weight of the ejaculate and sperm concentration were registered. Motility and acrosome integrity were assessed after storage at 16–18°C for 6, 30, 54, 78, and 102 h. Storage time had a significant influence on both motility (p boar (p boar (p boars and weight of the ejaculate did not influence the dependent variables. PMID:12071116

  9. Treatment of pneumothoraces at a tertiary centre: are we following the current guidelines?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Elsayed, Hany; Kent, Will; McShane, James; Page, Richard; Shackcloth, Michael

    2011-03-01

    The American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) in 2001 and British Thoracic Society (BTS) in 1993 and 2003 published guidelines for the treatment of pneumothorax. Here, we review our experience of managing pneumothorax patients, comparing standards of management before and after the publication of the guidelines in 2003. One hundred and twenty patients were transferred to our care for management of pneumothorax between October 2001 and September 2006. One hundred and one patients underwent pleurectomy [28 by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS)]. There were 69 males and 32 females with a median age of 47 years (range 15-86 years). 24% (n=24) of patients had evidence of intrapleural infection at time of operation. This was more likely if the time to pleurectomy was >14 days (P=0.03). The median time of referral for patients in the pre-guideline group was 12 days [interquartile range (IQR) 9-12] while post guidelines it was 10 days (IQR 6-13). There was no statistical significance (P=0.09) between these groups in terms of time taken to refer patients. The ACCP and BTS guidelines are not being followed. Pneumothoraces should be managed by chest physicians who are aware of the current guidelines. Impact of delayed referral in the form of increased incidence of morbidity and financial burdens on hospitals needs to be recognized.

  10. Effect of Electromagnetic Waves Generated by Base Transiver Station on Liver Enzymes in Female Rats

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gholam-Ali Jelodar

    2013-07-01

    Full Text Available Background: This study was investigating the effect of electromagnetic wave generated by mobile and base transceiver station (900 MHz on liver enzymes in both mature and immature female age.Materials and Methods: In this study, 20 rats Sprague Dawley white mature female age 8 to 9 weeks and weight 180 to 200 g and 20 rats immature age 3 to 4 weeks, weight 80 to 100 g, each age group were randomly divided in two groups (control and test. Test groups, were daily for four hours and four different times exposed to electromagnetic waves with signal generator (900 MHz, 5-meter intervals. Control groups were kept at equal condition (themperature and light in laboratory during experiment. After at the end experimental period, blood was collected by heart puncture of all animal. Exposure to EMF generated by BTS had significant effect on liver enzymes composition in mature and immature rats.Results: AST, ALT and ALP in immature-test groups decreased significantly compared with their respective control groups (p<0.05. ALP in mature-test groups increased significantly compared with their respective control groups (p<0.05.Conclusion: These result suggest that exposure to EMF generated by BTS has a deleterious effect on liver enzymes and that this effect is more sever in immature animals.

  11. Cytosolic calcium transients are a determinant of contraction-induced HSP72 transcription in single skeletal muscle fibers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Stary, Creed M; Hogan, Michael C

    2016-05-15

    The intrinsic activating factors that induce transcription of heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) in skeletal muscle following exercise remain unclear. We hypothesized that the cytosolic Ca(2+) transient that occurs with depolarization is a determinant. We utilized intact, single skeletal muscle fibers from Xenopus laevis to test the role of the cytosolic Ca(2+) transient and several other exercise-related factors (fatigue, hypoxia, AMP kinase, and cross-bridge cycling) on the activation of HSP72 transcription. HSP72 and HSP60 mRNA levels were assessed with real-time quantitative PCR; cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]cyt) was assessed with fura-2. Both fatiguing and nonfatiguing contractions resulted in a significant increase in HSP72 mRNA. As expected, peak [Ca(2+)]cyt remained tightly coupled with peak developed tension in contracting fibers. Pretreatment with N-benzyl-p-toluene sulfonamide (BTS) resulted in depressed peak developed tension with stimulation, while peak [Ca(2+)]cyt remained largely unchanged from control values. Despite excitation-contraction uncoupling, BTS-treated fibers displayed a significant increase in HSP72 mRNA. Treatment of fibers with hypoxia (Po2: skeletal muscle depolarization provides a sufficient activating stimulus for HSP72 transcription. Metabolic or mechanical factors associated with fatigue development and cross-bridge cycling likely play a more limited role. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  12. PARÂMETROS REPRODUTIVOS DE MATRIZES SUÍNAS INSEMINADAS COM SÊMEN DILUÍDO EM ÁGUA DE COCO APÓS MONITORAMENTO ULTRA-SONOGRÁFICO TRANSCUTÂNEO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pierre Castro Soares

    2006-10-01

    Full Text Available Com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito de diluidores de sêmen (MERK III, BTS e água de coco acrescida de citrato de sódio a 5% sobre parâmetros reprodutivos de matrizes suínas, utilizou-se sêmen diluído nas concentrações de 4x109 e 8x109 espermatozóides/100ml na inseminação artificial de 173 fêmeas púberes e 184 adultas, com prévio monitoramento ultra-sonográfico do estro e ovulação. O diagnóstico de gestação também foi realizado por ultra-sonografia transcutânea. Os dados revelaram altas percentagens (89,5% a 95,6% de prenhes das matrizes suínas púberes e adultas, sem variação significativa entre os tipos de diluidores utilizados. Sugere-se, portanto, que a água de coco in natura pode ser utilizada na diluição de sêmen suíno, significando uma alternativa de baixo custo, e que monitoramento ultra-sonográfico transcutâneo constitui um método auxiliar no diagnóstico de estro, ovulação e prenhez. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Suíno, sêmen, água de coco, MERK III, BTS, ultra-sonografia.

  13. Acaricidal activity of extracts from Petiveria alliacea (Phytolaccaceae) against the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: ixodidae).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Rosado-Aguilar, J A; Aguilar-Caballero, A; Rodriguez-Vivas, R I; Borges-Argaez, R; Garcia-Vazquez, Z; Mendez-Gonzalez, M

    2010-03-25

    The acaricidal activity of crude extracts and fractions from stems and leaves of Petiveria alliacea (Phytolaccaceae) was carried out on larvae and adults of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus using the larval immersion test (LIT) and adult immersion test (AIT), respectively. Methanolic extracts of stems and leaves of P. alliacea showed 100% mortality on the LIT bioassay. On the other hand, methanolic extracts of leaves and stem on the AIT test showed 26% and 86% of mortality, respectively, egg laying inhibition of 40% and 91%, respectively and hatchability inhibition of 26% and 17%, respectively. Purification of the active stem methanolic extract showed that the activity was present in the n-hexane non-polar fraction. Bioassay-guided purification of the n-hexane fraction produced 10 semi-purified fractions; fraction B had the highest activity against tick larvae (100% mortality). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry demonstrated that the chemical composition of the active fraction B samples were mainly composed of benzyltrisulfide (BTS) and benzyldisulfide (BDS). These metabolites might be responsible for the acaricidal activity of stem extract of P. alliacea. However, further experiments to evaluate the acaricidal activity of BTS and BDS on larvae and adults of R. (B.) microplus are needed. Our results showed that P. alliacea is a promising biocontrol candidate as acaricide against R. (B.) microplus resistant strains.

  14. Analytik, Vorkommen und Verhalten aromatischer Sulfonamide in der aquatischen Umwelt

    OpenAIRE

    Hartig, Claudia

    2000-01-01

    Subject of this PhD-thesis are the analysis and behaviour of aromatic sulfonamides as organic micropollutants in the aquatic environment. On the grounds of their widespread application, bacteriostatics as well as benzene- and toluenesulfonamides (BTS) are investigated. Analysis of the sulfonamides consists of solid-phase extraction (LiChrolut EN) and HPLC-MS/MS. Limits of detection vary from 0.1-20 ng/L. The MS/MS detection is carried out in SRM mode. Matrix effects of the investigated second...

  15. Summary and Comparison of the 2016 Billion-Ton Report with the 2011 U.S. Billion-Ton Update

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    None

    2016-06-01

    In terms of the magnitude of the resource potential, the results of the 2016 Billion-Ton Report (BT16) are consistent with the original 2005 Billion-Ton Study (BTS) and the 2011 report, U.S. Billion-Ton Update: Biomass Supply for a Bioenergy and Bioproducts Industry (BT2. An effort was made to reevaluate the potential forestland, agricultural, and waste resources at the roadside, then extend the analysis by adding transportation costs to a biorefinery under specified logistics assumptions to major resource fractions.

  16. The relationships between precipitation, convective cloud and tropical cyclone intensity change

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ruan, Z.; Wu, Q.

    2017-12-01

    Using 16 years precipitation, brightness temperature (IR BT) data and tropical cyclone (TC) information, this study explores the relationship between precipitation, convective cloud and tropical cyclone (TC) intensity change in the Western North Pacific Ocean. It is found that TC intensity has positive relation with TC precipitation. TC precipitation increases with increased TC intensity. Based on the different phase of diurnal cycle, convective TC clouds were divided into very cold deep convective clouds (IR BTs<208K) and cold high clouds (208K

  17. USE OF ALTERNATIVE EXTENDERS AND TEMPERATURES IN LONG TERM STORAGE OF BOAR SEMEN

    OpenAIRE

    Lina Raquel Santos Araújo; Tatyane Bandeira Barros; Daianny Barboza Guimarães; Ludymila Furtado Cantanhêde; Aline Viana Dias; Ricardo Toniolli

    2016-01-01

    The use of appropriate extenders is important for the success of an artificial insemination program. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of alternative extenders for swine semen at different temperatures (17 to 10 °C). The following extenders were used: Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS), powdered coconut water (ACP-103®), and skimmed milk powder (LPD). The 50 ejaculates were analyzed daily, in natura and after dilution, during the 5-day period of semen preservation  (D0...

  18. Transcriptomics-guided bottom-up and top-down venomics of neonate and adult specimens of the arboreal rear-fanged Brown Treesnake, Boiga irregularis, from Guam.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pla, Davinia; Petras, Daniel; Saviola, Anthony J; Modahl, Cassandra M; Sanz, Libia; Pérez, Alicia; Juárez, Elena; Frietze, Seth; Dorrestein, Pieter C; Mackessy, Stephen P; Calvete, Juan J

    2018-03-01

    The Brown Treesnake (Boiga irregularis) is an arboreal, nocturnal, rear-fanged venomous snake native to northern and eastern regions of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. It was inadvertently introduced onto the island of Guam during the late 1940's to early 1950's, and it has caused massive declines and extirpations of the native bird, lizard, and mammal populations. In the current study, we report the characterization of the venom proteome of an adult and a neonate B. irregularis specimens from Guam by a combination of venom gland transcriptomic and venomic analyses. Venom gland transcriptomic analysis of an adult individual identified toxins belonging to 18 protein families, with three-finger toxin isoforms being the most abundantly expressed transcripts, comprising 94% of all venom protein transcript reads. Transcripts for PIII-metalloproteinases, C-type lectins, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, acetylcholinesterases, natriuretic peptides, ficolins, phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 ) inhibitors, PLA 2 s, vascular endothelial growth factors, Kunitz-type protease inhibitors, cystatins, phospholipase Bs, cobra venom factors, waprins, SVMP inhibitors, matrix metalloproteinases, and hyaluronidases were also identified, albeit, at very low abundances ranging from 0.05% to 1.7% of the transcriptome. The venom proteomes of neonate and adult B. irregularis were also both overwhelmingly (78 and 84%, respectively) dominated by monomeric and dimeric 3FTxs, followed by moderately abundant (21% (N) and 13% (A)) CRISPs, low abundance (1% (N), 3% (A)) PIII-SVMPs, and very low abundance (blot analysis showed that all venom proteins were recognized by anti-BTS IgGs, and cross-reactivity with other rear-fanged snake venoms was also observed. Incubation of anti-BTS venom IgGs with crude B. irregularis venom resulted in a significant decrease in proteolytic (SVMP) activity against azocasein. These results provide the first comparative venomic and anti-venomic analysis of

  19. Functional leg length discrepancy between theories and reliable instrumental assessment: a study about newly invented NPoS system.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mahmoud, Asmaa; Abundo, Paolo; Basile, Luisanna; Albensi, Caterina; Marasco, Morena; Bellizzi, Letizia; Galasso, Franco; Foti, Calogero

    2017-01-01

    In spite the instinct social&financial impact of Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD), controversial and conflicting results still exist regarding a reliable assessment/correction method. For proper management it's essential to discriminate between anatomical&functional Leg Length Discrepancy (FLLD). With the newly invented NPoS (New Postural Solution), under the umbrella of the collaboration of PRM Department, Tor Vergata University with Baro Postural Instruments srl, positive results were observed in both measuring& compensating the hemi-pelvic antero-medial rotation in FLLD through personalized bilateral heel raise using two NPoS components: Foot Image System (FIS) and Postural Optimizer System (POS). This led our research interest to test the validity of NPoS as a preliminary step before evaluating its implementations in postural disorders. After clinical evaluation, 4 subjects with FLLD have been assessed by NPoS. Over a period of 2 months, every subject was evaluated 12 times by two different operators, 48 measurements in total, results have been verified in correlation to BTS GaitLab results. Intra-Operator&inter-operator variability analysis showed statistically insignificant differences, while inter-method variability between NPoS and BTS parameters expressed a linear correlation. Results suggest a significant validity of NPoS in assessment&correction of FLLD, with high degree of reproducibility with minimal operator dependency. This can be considered a base for promising clinical implications of NPoS as a reliable cost effective postural assessment/corrective tool. V.

  20. Modeling the Distributions of Brightness Temperatures of a Cropland Study Area Using a Model that Combines Fast Radiosity and Energy Budget Methods

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Zunjian Bian

    2018-05-01

    Full Text Available Land surface temperatures (LSTs obtained from remote sensing data are crucial in monitoring the conditions of crops and urban heat islands. However, since retrieved LSTs represent only the average temperature states of pixels, the distributions of temperatures within individual pixels remain unknown. Such data cannot satisfy the requirements of applications such as precision agriculture. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a model that combines a fast radiosity model, the Radiosity Applicable to Porous IndiviDual Objects (RAPID model, and energy budget methods to dynamically simulate brightness temperatures (BTs over complex surfaces. This model represents a model-based tool that can be used to estimate temperature distributions using fine-scale visible as well as near-infrared (VNIR data and temporal variations in meteorological conditions. The proposed model is tested over a study area in an artificial oasis in Northwestern China. The simulated BTs agree well with those measured with the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER. The results reflect root mean squared errors (RMSEs less than 1.6 °C and coefficients of determination (R2 greater than 0.7. In addition, compared to the leaf area index (LAI, this model displays high sensitivity to wind speed during validation. Although simplifications may be adopted for use in specific simulations, this proposed model can be used to support in situ measurements and to provide reference data over heterogeneous vegetation surfaces.

  1. Occurrence of organotin compounds in river sediments under the dynamic water level conditions in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gao, Jun-Min; Zhang, Ke; Chen, You-Peng; Guo, Jin-Song; Wei, Yun-Mei; Jiang, Wen-Chao; Zhou, Bin; Qiu, Hui

    2015-06-01

    The Three Gorges Project is the largest hydro project in the world, and the water level of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) is dynamic and adjustable with the aim of flood control and electrical power generation. It is necessary to investigate the pollutants and their underlying contamination processes under dynamic water levels to determine their environmental behaviors in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA). Here, we report the assessment of organotin compounds (OTs) pollution in the river sediments of the TGRA. Surface sediment samples were collected in the TGRA at low and high water levels. Tributyltin (TBT), triphenyltin (TPhT), and their degradation products in sediments were quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Butyltins (BTs) and phenyltins (PhTs) were detected in sediments, and BTs predominated over PhTs in the whole study area under dynamic water level conditions. The concentrations of OTs in sediments varied markedly among locations, and significant concentrations were found in river areas with high levels of boat traffic and wastewater discharge. Sediments at all stations except Cuntan were lightly contaminated with TBT, and total organic carbon (TOC) was a significant factor affecting the fate of TBT in the TGRA. The butyltin and phenyltin degradation indices showed no recent inputs of TBT or TPhT into this region, with the exception of fresh TPhT input at Xiakou Town. Shipping activity, wastewater discharge, and agriculture are the most likely sources of OTs in the TGRA.

  2. Identification and Characterization of Quantitative Trait Loci for Shattering in Japonica Rice Landrace Jiucaiqing from Taihu Lake Valley, China

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jinping Cheng

    2016-11-01

    Full Text Available Easy shattering reduces yield from grain loss during rice ( L. harvest. We characterized a nonshattering rice landrace Jiucaiqing from Taihu Lake valley in China. The breaking tensile strength (BTS; grams force, gf of the grain pedicel was measured using a digital force gauge to evaluate the degree of shattering at 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 d after heading (DAH. The BTS of Jiucaiqing did not significantly decrease with increasing DAH, maintaining a level of 152.2 to 195.9 gf, while that of IR26 decreased greatly during 0 to 14 DAH and finally stabilized at ∼100 gf. Then the chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs and near isogenic lines (NILs of Jiucaiqing in IR26 background were developed for quantitative trait loci (QTL mapping. Four putative QTL (, , , and for shattering were detected, and the was confirmed on chromosome 1. We further mapped to a 98.4-kb region, which contains 14 genes. Os01g62920 was considered to be a strong candidate for , which colocated with . Further quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR analyses confirmed that the QTL can significantly decrease the expression of shattering related genes (, , , , and especially at the middle development stage at 10 and 15 cm panicle length, which causes rice shattering decrease. The elite allele and the NIL with desirable agronomic traits identified in this study could be useful for rice breeding.

  3. Revision of Booster to Storage Ring Transport Line Design and Injection Scheme for Top-Up Operation at NSRRC

    CERN Document Server

    Wang, Min-Huey; Chen, Jenny; Chen June Rong; Hsu, Kuo-Tung; Kuo, Chin-Cheng; Luo, Gwo-Huei

    2005-01-01

    In order to help the operation of constant current, the optics of booster to storage ring transport line (BTS) design is reinvestigated. The initial twiss parameters are derived by measurement. The optics of the transport line is readjusted according to the measured initial beam parameters. The design of pulse width of the injection kicker is also changed from 1.2μsecond to 2.0μsecond. The injection scheme is reviewed and the effects of the kicker error on both injected beam and stored beam are investigated and shown in this report.

  4. Feijoeiro manteiga, planta-teste para os vírus de vira-cabeça e da necrose branca do fumo A bean variety useful as a local-lesion test plant for tomato spotted wilt and Brazilian tobacco streak viruses

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. S. Costa

    1957-01-01

    mistura de búfer e sulfito de sódio deu o maior aumento.Out of 200 bean varieties tested, plants of the var. Manteiga were the most sensitive to tomato spotted wilt (TSW and Brazilian tobacco streak (BTS viruses. The inoculated plants developed local chlorotic spots adequate for counts within 3-6 days after inoculation with the TSW virus; pin point or rings in 2-4 days following inoculation with the BTS virus. Bean plants with the primary leaves 2/3 expanded or slightly older gave better results for the TSW virus, whereas they were more sensitive to BTS virus when 2/3 expanded or slightly younger. The TSW virus did not become systemic in the bean plants. Most strains of the BTS virus also did not become systemic in the inoculated plants. A yellow strain of this virus usually did. Sodium sulfite at 0.01 M added to the infected tissues during extraction of the inoculum increased the number of lesions formed in the bean leaves inoculated with the TSW virus; the increase was greater when extraction was made in presence of phosphate buffer at pH 7 and at the concentration of 0.1 M. A mixture of buffer and sulfite did not cause a greater increase than buffer alone. Por the BTS virus the addition of sodium sulfite at 0.01 M during extraction gave a large increase in the number of lesions; buffer alone caused only a small increase, but a mixture of buffer and sodium sulfite gave the highest increase. Phosphate buffer at 0.05 M and with pH 7 or 8, added prior to extraction, gave a higher number of lesions in case of both viruses than the same concentration of buffer at pH 5 or 6. The use of butter at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 0.0125 M were tried and did not cause great differences in the number of local lesions, but the best ones seemed to be 0.05 or 0.025 M. Four concentrations of sodium sulfite, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, and 0.0125 M were compared as diluents for the same inocula in presence of phosphate buffer. The two lowest ones gave the highest number of lesions for both

  5. A cost effective model for appropriate administration of red cell units and salvaging un-transfused red cell units by using temperature sensitive indicators for blood component transportation in a hospital setting

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Aseem K Tiwari

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Background: A rule called "30-min rule" defines that red cell unit cannot be used if it has been out of blood bank refrigerator for over 30 min. This rule is useful to guide initiation of transfusion, but is inadequate for deciding whether to reuse or discard units received-back at blood transfusion services (BTS. A simple cost-effective temperature-sensitive indicator was evaluated to decide upon reuse (cold chain was uninterrupted or discard (where cold chain was interrupted in a simulation exercise. Materials and Methods: Temperature-sensitive indicators TH-F™ that irreversibly changed color from white to red demonstrated that heat excursion has occurred and the cumulative temperature has exceeded 10°C for over 30 min, were used in outdated red cells for simulating units, which are not used and received-back. These units were also tagged with a standard temperature monitoring device, which was a re-usable credit card sized device, which would log the actual time and temperature. In few units percent hemolysis was also calculated. Results: Statistically insignificant elevation in average temperature was noted in 102 simulated units at the time of return to BTS (Δ 0.04°C, despite the fact that these units were in the transport box for over 4 h. The average supernatant hemoglobin in these units was 0.24%, much below the prescribed threshold. Conclusion: Transportation of blood in controlled conditions with temperature-sensitive indicator is a cost-effective model to save blood, a precious human resource.

  6. ANALISIS EFEKTIVITAS PANGGILAN TELEPON SELULER (INCOMING CALL DALAM WILAYAH LAYANAN UNISMA BEKASI (STUDI KASUS OPERATOR TELKOMSEL – SIMPATI

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Abdul Hafid Paronda

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas keberhasilan panggilan telepon seluler di wilayah kampus UNISMA Bekasi. Luaran (output pengoperasian BTS (Base Transceiver Station operator Telkomsel – Simpati yang  melayani komunikasi dalam wilayah tersebut akan dijadikan obyek penelitian. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan metode eksperimentasi – observasi, yakni dengan mencatat/merekam keberhasilan panggilan dari tempat tertentu terhadap pelanggan di lapangan (yang tersebar di area kampus UNISMA Bekasi, yang kemudian akan dianalisis efektivitasnya. Dalam penelitian ini pemanggilan dilakukan di pekarangan RS. dr.Adam Thalib Cibitung terhadap penerima yang berada di dalam wilayah kampus UNISMA Bekasi, yakni pada 5(lima gedung dengan mengambil sampel pada 15 (lima belas titik yang berbeda. Diperoleh data penerimaan panggilan telepon seluler operator Telkomsel – Simpati berupa durasi (lama waktu yang dibutuhkan untuk proses penyambungan antara 2(dua pelaku komunikasi yang berjarak sekitar 10 kilometer itu. Dengan uji hipotesis satu arah – uji kebebasan berbasis distribusi chi square, juga ingin diketahui pengaruh perbedaan titik posisi penerimaan sinyal panggilan terhadap efektivitas keberhasilan panggilan. Dengan analisis data penelitian yang terdiri atas 75(tujuh puluh lima sampel diketahui bahwa durasi rata – rata penyambungan komunikasi antara kedua titik lokasi yang dipilih, adalah sebesar 6,7 detik. Sedangkan dari hasil uji hipotesis yang dilakukan disimpulkan bahwa tidak ada hubungan antara perbedaan titik lokasi penerimaan panggilan dengan efektivitas penerimaan panggilan (penyambungan komunikasi. Melalui penelitian ini juga diketahui bahwa sebagian besar durasi penyambungan komunikasi yang tercatat adalah merupakan waktu tunda (delay time yang dibutuhkan untuk pengolahan sinyal dalam perangkat telekomunikasi yang digunakan (telepon seluler, BTS, dan lain – lain.

  7. Loss of Smyhc1 or Hsp90alpha1 function results in different effects on myofibril organization in skeletal muscles of zebrafish embryos.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marta Codina

    Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Myofibrillogenesis requires the correct folding and assembly of sarcomeric proteins into highly organized sarcomeres. Heat shock protein 90alpha1 (Hsp90alpha1 has been implicated as a myosin chaperone that plays a key role in myofibrillogenesis. Knockdown or mutation of hsp90alpha1 resulted in complete disorganization of thick and thin filaments and M- and Z-line structures. It is not clear whether the disorganization of these sarcomeric structures is due to a direct effect from loss of Hsp90alpha1 function or indirectly through the disorganization of myosin thick filaments. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: In this study, we carried out a loss-of-function analysis of myosin thick filaments via gene-specific knockdown or using a myosin ATPase inhibitor BTS (N-benzyl-p-toluene sulphonamide in zebrafish embryos. We demonstrated that knockdown of myosin heavy chain 1 (myhc1 resulted in sarcomeric defects in the thick and thin filaments and defective alignment of Z-lines. Similarly, treating zebrafish embryos with BTS disrupted thick and thin filament organization, with little effect on the M- and Z-lines. In contrast, loss of Hsp90alpha1 function completely disrupted all sarcomeric structures including both thick and thin filaments as well as the M- and Z-lines. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Together, these studies indicate that the hsp90alpha1 mutant phenotype is not simply due to disruption of myosin folding and assembly, suggesting that Hsp90alpha1 may play a role in the assembly and organization of other sarcomeric structures.

  8. Effect of all-trans retinoic acid on the proliferation and differentiation of brain tumor stem cells

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Niu Chao

    2010-08-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Objective To investigate the effect of all-trans retinoic acid(ATRA on the proliferation and differentiation of brain tumor stem cells(BTSCs in vitro. Methods Limiting dilution and clonogenic assay were used to isolate and screen BTSCs from the fresh specimen of human brain glioblastoma. The obtained BTSCs, which were cultured in serum-free medium, were classified into four groups in accordance with the composition of the different treatments. The proliferation of the BTSCs was evaluated by MTT assay. The BTSCs were induced to differentiate in serum-containing medium, and classified into the ATRA group and control group. On the 10th day of induction, the expressions of CD133 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP in the differentiated BTSCs were detected by immunofluorescence. The differentiated BTSCs were cultured in serum-free medium, the percentage and the time required for formation of brain tumor spheres (BTS were observed. Results BTSCs obtained by limiting dilution were all identified as CD133-positive by immunofluorescence. In serum-free medium, the proliferation of BTSCs in the ATRA group was observed significantly faster than that in the control group, but slower than that in the growth factor group and ATRA/growth factor group, and the size of the BTS in the ATRA group was smaller than that in the latter two groups(P P P P Conclusion ATRA can promote the proliferation and induce the differentiation of BTSCs, but the differentiation is incomplete, terminal differentiation cannot be achieved and BTSs can be formed again.

  9. AATSR land surface temperature product algorithm verification over a WATERMED site

    Science.gov (United States)

    Noyes, E. J.; Sòria, G.; Sobrino, J. A.; Remedios, J. J.; Llewellyn-Jones, D. T.; Corlett, G. K.

    A new operational Land Surface Temperature (LST) product generated from data acquired by the Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR) provides the opportunity to measure LST on a global scale with a spatial resolution of 1 km2. The target accuracy of the product, which utilises nadir data from the AATSR thermal channels at 11 and 12 μm, is 2.5 K for daytime retrievals and 1.0 K at night. We present the results of an experiment where the performance of the algorithm has been assessed for one daytime and one night time overpass occurring over the WATERMED field site near Marrakech, Morocco, on 05 March 2003. Top of atmosphere (TOA) brightness temperatures (BTs) are simulated for 12 pixels from each overpass using a radiative transfer model, with the LST product and independent emissivity values and atmospheric data as inputs. We have estimated the error in the LST product over this biome for this set of conditions by applying the operational AATSR LST retrieval algorithm to the modelled BTs and comparing the results with the original AATSR LSTs input into the model. An average bias of -1.00 K (standard deviation 0.07 K) for the daytime data, and -1.74 K (standard deviation 0.02 K) for the night time data is obtained, which indicates that the algorithm is yielding an LST that is too cold under these conditions. While these results are within specification for daytime retrievals, this suggests that the target accuracy of 1.0 K at night is not being met within this biome.

  10. Immobilization of Dystrophin and Laminin α2-Chain Deficient Zebrafish Larvae In Vivo Prevents the Development of Muscular Dystrophy.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mei Li

    Full Text Available Muscular dystrophies are often caused by genetic alterations in the dystrophin-dystroglycan complex or its extracellular ligands. These structures are associated with the cell membrane and provide mechanical links between the cytoskeleton and the matrix. Mechanical stress is considered a pathological mechanism and muscle immobilization has been shown to be beneficial in some mouse models of muscular dystrophy. The zebrafish enables novel and less complex models to examine the effects of extended immobilization or muscle relaxation in vivo in different dystrophy models. We have examined effects of immobilization in larvae from two zebrafish strains with muscular dystrophy, the Sapje dystrophin-deficient and the Candyfloss laminin α2-chain-deficient strains. Larvae (4 days post fertilization, dpf of both mutants have significantly lower active force in vitro, alterations in the muscle structure with gaps between muscle fibers and altered birefringence patterns compared to their normal siblings. Complete immobilization (18 hrs to 4 dpf was achieved using a small molecular inhibitor of actin-myosin interaction (BTS, 50 μM. This treatment resulted in a significantly weaker active contraction at 4 dpf in both mutated larvae and normal siblings, most likely reflecting a general effect of immobilization on myofibrillogenesis. The immobilization also significantly reduced the structural damage in the mutated strains, showing that muscle activity is an important pathological mechanism. Following one-day washout of BTS, muscle tension partly recovered in the Candyfloss siblings and caused structural damage in these mutants, indicating activity-induced muscle recovery and damage, respectively.

  11. SeleÃÃo e imobilizaÃÃo de consÃrcios de bactÃrias hidrocarbonoclÃsticas e produtoras de compostos ativos de superfÃcie para aplicaÃÃes em processos de biorremediaÃÃo.

    OpenAIRE

    Alysson Lira Angelim

    2012-01-01

    A regiÃo norte do manguezal da BaÃa de Todos-os-Santos (BTS) encontra-se cronicamente contaminada com as fraÃÃes mais recalcitrantes do petrÃleo. Dentre as iniciativas para mitigar esse passivo ambiental, destaca-se a criaÃÃo em 2001 da Rede Cooperativa em RecuperaÃÃo de Ãreas Contaminadas por Atividades PetrolÃferas (RECUPETRO), apoiada pela Petrobras e FINEP, tendo como um dos objetivos desenvolver processos de biorremediaÃÃo. Um desses processos envolveu a seleÃÃo e preparaÃÃo de consÃrcio...

  12. Buildings for the 21st Century, Fall 2001

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    2001-10-01

    The Buildings for the 21st Century newsletter is produced by the Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs and contains information on building programs, events, products, and initiatives, with a focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The fall issue includes information on weatherization, Boise's geothermal heating system, the BTS Core Databook, the Solar Decathlon, a Rebuild America partnership, the BigHorn Home Improvement Center, AIA's Top Ten Buildings, a sub-CFL procurement program, the U.S. investment in energy efficient research, new efficiency standards, PNNL's building software, and a calendar of meetings and conferences.

  13. Determining the infrared radiative effects of Saharan dust: a radiative transfer modelling study based on vertically resolved measurements at Lampedusa

    Science.gov (United States)

    Meloni, Daniela; di Sarra, Alcide; Brogniez, Gérard; Denjean, Cyrielle; De Silvestri, Lorenzo; Di Iorio, Tatiana; Formenti, Paola; Gómez-Amo, José L.; Gröbner, Julian; Kouremeti, Natalia; Liuzzi, Giuliano; Mallet, Marc; Pace, Giandomenico; Sferlazzo, Damiano M.

    2018-03-01

    Detailed measurements of radiation, atmospheric and aerosol properties were carried out in summer 2013 during the Aerosol Direct Radiative Impact on the regional climate in the MEDiterranean region (ADRIMED) campaign in the framework of the Chemistry-Aerosol Mediterranean Experiment (ChArMEx) experiment. This study focusses on the characterization of infrared (IR) optical properties and direct radiative effects of mineral dust, based on three vertical profiles of atmospheric and aerosol properties and IR broadband and narrowband radiation from airborne measurements, made in conjunction with radiosonde and ground-based observations at Lampedusa, in the central Mediterranean. Satellite IR spectra from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounder Interferometer (IASI) are also included in the analysis. The atmospheric and aerosol properties are used as input to a radiative transfer model, and various IR radiation parameters (upward and downward irradiance, nadir and zenith brightness temperature at different altitudes) are calculated and compared with observations. The model calculations are made for different sets of dust particle size distribution (PSD) and refractive index (RI), derived from observations and from the literature. The main results of the analysis are that the IR dust radiative forcing is non-negligible and strongly depends on PSD and RI. When calculations are made using the in situ measured size distribution, it is possible to identify the refractive index that produces the best match with observed IR irradiances and brightness temperatures (BTs). The most appropriate refractive indices correspond to those determined from independent measurements of mineral dust aerosols from the source regions (Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco) of dust transported over Lampedusa, suggesting that differences in the source properties should be taken into account. With the in situ size distribution and the most appropriate refractive index the estimated dust IR radiative forcing

  14. Effects of butyltin exposures on MAP kinase dependent transcription regulators in human natural killer cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Person, Rachel J.; Whalen, Margaret M.

    2010-01-01

    Natural Killer (NK) cells are a major immune defense mechanism against cancer development and viral infection. The butyltins (BTs), tributyltin (TBT) and dibutyltin (DBT) have been widely used in industrial and other applications and significantly contaminate the environment. Both TBT and DBT have been detected in human blood. These compounds inhibit the lytic and binding function of human NK cells and thus could increase the incidence of cancer and viral infections. Butyltin (BT)-induced loss of NK function is accompanied by activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and decreases in expression of cell-surface and cytolytic proteins. MAPKs activate components of the transcription regulator AP-1 and activate the transcription regulator Elk-1. Based on the fact that BTs activate MAPKs and alter protein expression, the current study examined the effect of BT exposures on the levels and phosphorylation states of the components of AP-1 and the phosphorylation state of Elk-1. Exposure to 300 nM TBT for 10 min increased the phosphorylation of c-Jun in NK cells. 1 h exposures to 300 nM and 200 nM TBT increased the phosphorylation and overall level of c-Jun. During a 300 nM treatment with TBT for 1 h the binding activity of AP-1 was significantly decreased. There were no significant alterations of AP-1 components or of Elk-1 with DBT exposures. Thus, it appears that TBT-induced alterations on phosphorylation, total levels and binding activity of c-Jun might contribute to, but are not fully responsible for, TBT-induced alterations of NK protein expression. PMID:20370538

  15. SALVEREMO, an automatic system for the search and rescue in the wilderness and mountain areas

    Science.gov (United States)

    Penna, Roberto; Allasia, Walter; Bianchi, Luca; Licata, Enrico; Duranti, Pierluigi; Molino, Andrea; Bagalini, Enea; Sagliocco, Sergio; Scarafia, Simone; Prinetto, Paolo; Airofarulla, Giuseppe; Carelli, Alberto

    2016-04-01

    SALVEREMO project aims at designing and prototyping an innovative system for searching and rescuing individuals (especially hikers and mountaineers) who got lost or in peril in wilderness or mountain areas. It makes use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) equipped with a sensor suite specifically selected according to the requirements identified involving alpine rescuers and government officials. The peculiarity of the proposed solution is the exploitation and integration of the special skill and expertise coming from different competence fields. It will dramatically decrease the searching time in the wilderness and remote areas off the beaten tracks, providing rescuers and operators with a decision support system increasing successful results and reducing rescue missions costs. The system benefits from the adoption of a scaled-down Base Transceiver Station (BTS) embarked in the payload sensor suite of a small RPAS that can be carried in a back pack of rescuers. A Software Defined Radio (SDR) board implementing the BTS protocol stack has been integrated in a complex sensor suite made up of open processing boards and camera devices. Moreover computer vision (CV) algorithms for real time pattern detection and image enhancements have been investigated for assisting the rescuers during the searching operations. An easy-to-use ground station application has been developed for speeding up the overall mission accomplishment. Aknowledgement SALVEREMO project is a research project co-funded by Regione Piemonte according to the call for proposal POR F.E.S.R. 2007/2013, "Linea di attività I.1.3-Innovazione e PMI - Polo della Meccatronica e dei Sistemi Avanzati di Produzione". The authors want to thank "Il Soccorso Alpino Italiano" for the invaluable support for establishing operative requirements.

  16. Effects of cationic antimicrobial peptides on liquid-preserved boar spermatozoa.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Martin Schulze

    Full Text Available Antibiotics are mandatory additives in semen extenders to control bacterial contamination. The worldwide increase in resistance to conventional antibiotics requires the search for alternatives not only for animal artificial insemination industries, but also for veterinary and human medicine. Cationic antimicrobial peptides are of interest as a novel class of antimicrobial additives for boar semen preservation. The present study investigated effects of two synthetic cyclic hexapeptides (c-WFW, c-WWW and a synthetic helical magainin II amide derivative (MK5E on boar sperm during semen storage at 16 °C for 4 days. The standard extender, Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS containing 250 µg/mL gentamicin (standard, was compared to combinations of BTS with each of the peptides in a split-sample procedure. Examination revealed peptide- and concentration-dependent effects on sperm integrity and motility. Negative effects were more pronounced for MK5E than in hexapeptide-supplemented samples. The cyclic hexapeptides were partly able to stimulate a linear progressive sperm movement. When using low concentrations of cyclic hexapeptides (4 µM c-WFW, 2 µM c-WWW sperm quality was comparable to the standard extender over the course of preservation. C-WFW-supplemented boar semen resulted in normal fertility rates after AI. In order to investigate the interaction of peptides with the membrane, electron spin resonance spectroscopic measurements were performed using spin-labeled lipids. C-WWW and c-WFW reversibly immobilized an analog of phosphatidylcholine (PC, whereas MK5E caused an irreversible increase of PC mobility. These results suggest testing the antimicrobial efficiency of non-toxic concentrations of selected cyclic hexapeptides as potential candidates to supplement/replace common antibiotics in semen preservation.

  17. Effects of cationic antimicrobial peptides on liquid-preserved boar spermatozoa.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schulze, Martin; Junkes, Christof; Mueller, Peter; Speck, Stephanie; Ruediger, Karin; Dathe, Margitta; Mueller, Karin

    2014-01-01

    Antibiotics are mandatory additives in semen extenders to control bacterial contamination. The worldwide increase in resistance to conventional antibiotics requires the search for alternatives not only for animal artificial insemination industries, but also for veterinary and human medicine. Cationic antimicrobial peptides are of interest as a novel class of antimicrobial additives for boar semen preservation. The present study investigated effects of two synthetic cyclic hexapeptides (c-WFW, c-WWW) and a synthetic helical magainin II amide derivative (MK5E) on boar sperm during semen storage at 16 °C for 4 days. The standard extender, Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) containing 250 µg/mL gentamicin (standard), was compared to combinations of BTS with each of the peptides in a split-sample procedure. Examination revealed peptide- and concentration-dependent effects on sperm integrity and motility. Negative effects were more pronounced for MK5E than in hexapeptide-supplemented samples. The cyclic hexapeptides were partly able to stimulate a linear progressive sperm movement. When using low concentrations of cyclic hexapeptides (4 µM c-WFW, 2 µM c-WWW) sperm quality was comparable to the standard extender over the course of preservation. C-WFW-supplemented boar semen resulted in normal fertility rates after AI. In order to investigate the interaction of peptides with the membrane, electron spin resonance spectroscopic measurements were performed using spin-labeled lipids. C-WWW and c-WFW reversibly immobilized an analog of phosphatidylcholine (PC), whereas MK5E caused an irreversible increase of PC mobility. These results suggest testing the antimicrobial efficiency of non-toxic concentrations of selected cyclic hexapeptides as potential candidates to supplement/replace common antibiotics in semen preservation.

  18. In Memoriam Éric Thomé (1976-2015)

    OpenAIRE

    2016-01-01

    Éric Thomé, trente‑neuf ans, graphiste et photographe, est décédé lors des attentats du 13 novembre 2015. Il se trouvait au Bataclan. Diplômé d’un BTS communication visuel au lycée de Sèvres, il avait travaillé pendant huit ans comme directeur artistique dans la publicité. Il avait par la suite cofondé le studio de design graphique We Are Ted à Paris avec Laurent Duvoux. C’est dans ce cadre qu’Éric avait contribué à créer la maquette de la revue Sociologie. La déclinaison d’un logo dans plusi...

  19. Diagnostics for the 1.5 GeV Transport Line at the NSRRC

    CERN Document Server

    Hu, K H; Hsu, K T; Kuo, C H; Lee, D; Wang, C J; Yang, Y T

    2005-01-01

    The extracted 1.5 GeV electron beams from the booster synchrotron are transported via a transport line and injected into the storage ring. This booster-to-storage ring transport line equipped with stripline beam positions monitors, integrated current transformers, fast current transformer, and screen monitors. Commercial log-ratio BPM electronics were adopted to process the 500MHz bunch signal directly. The position of the passing beam is digitized by VME analog interface. The transmission efficiency is measured by integrated current transformer. Screen monitors are used to support routine operation. This report summary the system architecture, software tools, and performance of the BTS diagnostics.

  20. Analisis Pemetaan Sambaran Petir Akibat Bangunan BTS Terhadap Lingkungan Dan Sekitarnya Di Kota Medan

    OpenAIRE

    Pandiangan, Lestari Naomi Lydia

    2010-01-01

    Northern Sumatra has a lightning-prone areas because it has topography that allows the growth of convective clouds around the mountain slopes direct to the east, such as Medan. Lightning disasters can manifest as lightning attack which with interfere the high voltage electricity transmission, and can be fatal whoever who comes into direct contact with it. The danger caused by a lightning strike is so great, so that the community has to be extra needs to be vigilant and cautious at the time...

  1. The Expression of BTS-2 Enhances Cell Growth and Invasiveness in Renal Cell Carcinoma.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pham, Quoc Thang; Oue, Naohide; Yamamoto, Yuji; Shigematsu, Yoshinori; Sekino, Yohei; Sakamoto, Naoya; Sentani, Kazuhiro; Uraoka, Naohiro; Tiwari, Mamata; Yasui, Wataru

    2017-06-01

    Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common types of cancer in developed countries. Bone marrow stromal cell antigen 2 (BST2) gene, which encodes BST2 transmembrane glycoprotein, is overexpressed in several cancer types. In the present study, we analyzed the expression and function of BST2 in RCC. BST2 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in 123 RCC cases. RNA interference was used to inhibit BST2 expression in a RCC cell line. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that 32% of the 123 RCC cases were positive for BST2. BST2 expression was positively associated with tumour stage. Furthermore, BST2 expression was an independent predictor of survival in patients with RCC. BST2 siRNA-transfected Caki-1 cells displayed significantly reduced cell growth and invasive activity relative to negative control siRNA-transfected cells. These results suggest that BST2 plays an important role in the progression of RCC. Because BST2 is expressed on the cell membrane, BST2 is a good therapeutic target for RCC. Copyright© 2017, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

  2. Modelling the Effects of Temperature and Cloud Cover Change on Mountain Permafrost Distribution, Northwest Canada

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bonnaventure, P. P.; Lewkowicz, A. G.

    2008-12-01

    Spatial models of permafrost probability for three study areas in northwest Canada between 59°N and 61°N were perturbed to investigate climate change impacts. The models are empirical-statistical in nature, based on basal temperature of snow (BTS) measurements in winter, and summer ground-truthing of the presence or absence of frozen ground. Predictions of BTS values are made using independent variables of elevation and potential incoming solar radiation (PISR), both derived from a 30 m DEM. These are then transformed into the probability of the presence or absence of permafrost through logistic regression. Under present climate conditions, permafrost percentages in the study areas are 44% for Haines Summit, British Columbia, 38% for Wolf Creek, Yukon, and 69% for part of the Ruby Range, Yukon (Bonnaventure and Lewkowicz, 2008; Lewkowicz and Bonaventure, 2008). Scenarios of air temperature change from -2K (approximating Neoglacial conditions) to +5K (possible within the next century according to the IPCC) were examined for the three sites. Manipulations were carried out by lowering or raising the terrain within the DEM assuming a mean environmental lapse rate of 6.5K/km. Under a -2K scenario, permafrost extent increased by 22-43% in the three study areas. Under a +5K warming, permafrost essentially disappeared in Haines Summit and Wolf Creek, while in the Ruby Range less than 12% of the area remained perennially frozen. It should be emphasized that these model predictions are for equilibrium conditions which might not be attained for several decades or longer in areas of cold permafrost. Cloud cover changes of -10% to +10% were examined through adjusting the partitioning of direct beam and diffuse radiation in the PISR input field. Changes to permafrost extent were small, ranging from -2% to -4% for greater cloudiness with changes of the opposite magnitude for less cloud. The results show that air temperature change has a much greater potential to affect mountain

  3. Criopreservação do sêmen de tambaqui utilizando dry shipper e máquina de congelação programada

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mayara Setúbal Oliveira

    2016-08-01

    Full Text Available O tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum é uma espécie nativa de peixe de água doce de grande importância para aquicultura brasileira. Devido a isso, diversas técnicas têm sido desenvolvidas para aperfeiçoar a reprodução desta espécie em cativeiro, dentre elas a criopreservação de sêmen de peixe. Como uma forma de melhorar os protocolos de criopreservação, tem-se buscado utilizar soluções diluidoras e métodos de congelação adequados, proporcionando uma boa qualidade seminal pós-descongelação. Dessa forma, este estudo objetivou avaliar a eficiência de diferentes diluidores e métodos de congelação na criopreservação do sêmen de tambaqui (C. macropomum. As amostras de sêmen fresco foram diluídas em diferentes tratamentos (Glicose 5% + 10% Dimetilsufóxido – DMSO; Glicose 5% + 10% Metil glicol – MG; Beltsville Thawing Solution – BTS + 10% DMSO e BTS + 10% MG na proporção 1:9 e congeladas em máquina de congelação programada e em Dry shipper. As amostras seminais foram descongeladas e avaliadas para vitalidade, morfologia e cinética espermáticas. O sêmen criopreservado com DMSO utilizando a máquina de congelação programada proporcionou maiores percentuais de espermatozoides móveis (15,44 ± 1,04% após a descongelação em relação ao Dry shipper (3,99 ± 0,55%, independente do diluente utilizado. Além disso, DMSO proporcionou as melhores velocidades espermáticas em relação ao MG, independente do método de congelação e diluente empregado. Um maior percentual de espermatozoides vivos foi observado quando se utilizou Glicose (37,28 ± 1,32% como diluente (independente do método e crioprotetor, e DMSO (37,98 ± 1,25% em máquina de congelação programada. Para a morfologia espermática, uma maior quantidade de espermatozoides normais (46,10 ± 1,82% foi observada quando o sêmen foi criopreservado usando a máquina de congelação programada com o DMSO, para os crioprotetores, Glicose e BTS (38,16 ± 1

  4. Fruto de naidi (Euterpe oleracea y su perspectiva en la seguridad alimentaria colombiana

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sandra Patricia Montenegro-Gómez

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Euterpe oleracea es una palma originaria de Suramérica, su distribución es netamente tropical y subtropical. Su fruto es altamente aprove - chado en Brasil, donde se conoce como açai. Comercializado tanto dentro como fuera del país, sus niveles de exportación han aumentado debido a resultados científicos que indican altas propiedades antioxidantes y nutritivas. Es considerado alimento funcional y de impor - tancia en el sostenimiento de la seguridad alimentaria. En Colombia, E. oleracea hace presencia en la región pacífica, principalmente en valles medios de los ríos Atrato y Magdalena, su fruto conocido como naidí se aprovecha en los departamentos de Nariño, Cauca, Valle del Cauca y Chocó. Habitantes del Pacífico valoran su fruto por sus cualidades nutritivas y por ser fuente de ingresos para muchas familias que comercializan en mercados locales. Su aprovechamiento se ve afectado debido a que las cosechas abundantes se dan solamente en dos épocas del año, originando priorización por el aprovechamiento del palmito (cogollo sobre el fruto, comprometiéndose el uso sustentable del recurso y la seguridad alimentaria, ya que la extracción de palmito, primero afecta la fructificación, y segundo no favorece la economía de la región, porque su explotación la hacen empresas extranjeras exportadoras. Por lo tanto, este recurso fitogenético requiere atención de entes gubernamentales e instituciones que contribuyan en el fortalecimiento de la comercialización del fruto teniendo como base sus bondades nutritivas y saludables.

  5. Seasonal variation in the composition and concentration of butyltin compounds in marine fish of Taiwan

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dong, C.D.; Chen, C.W.; Liu, L.L

    2004-10-01

    For the first time, strong evidence is presented to demonstrate that the accumulations of butyltin compounds (BTs) exhibit seasonal variations with respect to their compositions and concentrations in marine fishes. Measurements were made on the benthic ponyfish Leiogenathus splendens and lizardfish Trachinocephalus myops inhabiting the west coast of Taiwan. In the whole body samples of the ponyfish, BT concentrations ranged from 236 to 2501 ng/g wet wt, with those in winter considerably higher than in the other seasons (p<0.05). In a similar vein, proportions of mono- (MBT), di- (DBT) and tributyltin (TBT) differed significantly (p<0.001) depending upon the season, with TBT (75 and 50%) dominant in winter and spring and DBT (37 and 57%) and MBT (42 and 24%) dominant in summer and autumn, respectively. In the lizardfish, the concentrations of BTs were one to two orders of magnitude higher in the liver than in the muscle, i.e. 3058-11,473 vs. 36-159 ng/g wet wt, respectively. Concentrations of MBT, DBT and TBT in the muscle ranged, respectively, from 5 to 14, 8 to 35 and 23 to 110 ng/g wet wt, with the major compound being TBT (57-69%) in all seasons. However, in the liver, DBT concentrations, ranging from 992 to 7797 ng/g wet wt, differed seasonally with a descending order of autumn > summer > spring (p<0.05). Meanwhile, TBT (41%) was predominant in spring, whereas DBT (50 and 68%) was most heavily concentrated in summer and autumn (p<0.001). Seasonally mediated physiological changes, such as dilution due to growth and metabolic compensation, may play important roles in forming different BT accumulation patterns among seasons and organisms.

  6. Investigating suspected acute pulmonary embolism - what are hospital clinicians thinking?

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    McQueen, A.S.; Worthy, S.; Keir, M.J.

    2008-01-01

    Aims: To assess local clinical knowledge of the appropriate investigation of suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE) and this compare with the 2003 British Thoracic Society (BTS) guidelines as a national reference standard. Methods: A clinical questionnaire was produced based on the BTS guidelines. One hundred and eight-six participants completed the questionnaires at educational sessions for clinicians of all grades, within a single NHS Trust. The level of experience amongst participants ranged from final year medical students to consultant physicians. Results: The clinicians were divided into four groups based on seniority: Pre-registration, Junior, Middle, and Senior. Forty-six point eight percent of all the clinicians correctly identified three major risk factors for PE and 25.8% recognized the definition of the recommended clinical probability score from two alternatives. Statements regarding the sensitivity of isotope lung imaging and computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) received correct responses from 41.4 and 43% of participants, respectively, whilst 81.2% recognized that an indeterminate ventilation-perfusion scintigraphy (V/Q) study requires further imaging. The majority of clinicians correctly answered three clinical scenario questions regarding use of D-dimers and imaging (78, 85, and 57.5%). There was no statistically significant difference between the four groups for any of the eight questions. Conclusions: The recommended clinical probability score was unfamiliar to all four groups of clinicians in the present study, and the majority of doctors did not agree that a negative CTPA or isotope lung scintigraphy reliably excluded PE. However, questions based on clinical scenarios received considerably higher rates of correct responses. The results indicate that various aspects of the national guidelines on suspected acute pulmonary embolism are unfamiliar to many UK hospital clinicians. Further research is needed to identify methods to improve

  7. Estimates of Single Sensor Error Statistics for the MODIS Matchup Database Using Machine Learning

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kumar, C.; Podesta, G. P.; Minnett, P. J.; Kilpatrick, K. A.

    2017-12-01

    Sea surface temperature (SST) is a fundamental quantity for understanding weather and climate dynamics. Although sensors aboard satellites provide global and repeated SST coverage, a characterization of SST precision and bias is necessary for determining the suitability of SST retrievals in various applications. Guidance on how to derive meaningful error estimates is still being developed. Previous methods estimated retrieval uncertainty based on geophysical factors, e.g. season or "wet" and "dry" atmospheres, but the discrete nature of these bins led to spatial discontinuities in SST maps. Recently, a new approach clustered retrievals based on the terms (excluding offset) in the statistical algorithm used to estimate SST. This approach resulted in over 600 clusters - too many to understand the geophysical conditions that influence retrieval error. Using MODIS and buoy SST matchups (2002 - 2016), we use machine learning algorithms (recursive and conditional trees, random forests) to gain insight into geophysical conditions leading to the different signs and magnitudes of MODIS SST residuals (satellite SSTs minus buoy SSTs). MODIS retrievals were first split into three categories: 0.4 C. These categories are heavily unbalanced, with residuals > 0.4 C being much less frequent. Performance of classification algorithms is affected by imbalance, thus we tested various rebalancing algorithms (oversampling, undersampling, combinations of the two). We consider multiple features for the decision tree algorithms: regressors from the MODIS SST algorithm, proxies for temperature deficit, and spatial homogeneity of brightness temperatures (BTs), e.g., the range of 11 μm BTs inside a 25 km2 area centered on the buoy location. These features and a rebalancing of classes led to an 81.9% accuracy when classifying SST retrievals into the cloud contamination still is one of the causes leading to negative SST residuals. Precision and accuracy of error estimates from our decision tree

  8. Legal and ethical issues in safe blood transfusion

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shivaram Chandrashekar

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Legal issues play a vital role in providing a framework for the Indian blood transfusion service (BTS, while ethical issues pave the way for quality. Despite licensing of all blood banks, failure to revamp the Drugs and Cosmetic Act (D and C Act is impeding quality. Newer techniques like chemiluminescence or nucleic acid testing (NAT find no mention in the D and C Act. Specialised products like pooled platelet concentrates or modified whole blood, therapeutic procedures like erythropheresis, plasma exchange, stem cell collection and processing technologies like leukoreduction and irradiation are not a part of the D and C Act. A highly fragmented BTS comprising of over 2500 blood banks, coupled with a slow and tedious process of dual licensing (state and centre is a hindrance to smooth functioning of blood banks. Small size of blood banks compromises blood safety. New blood banks are opened in India by hospitals to meet requirements of insurance providers or by medical colleges as this a Medical Council of India (MCI requirement. Hospital based blood banks opt for replacement donation as they are barred by law from holding camps. Demand for fresh blood, lack of components, and lack of guidelines for safe transfusion leads to continued abuse of blood. Differential pricing of blood components is difficult to explain scientifically or ethically. Accreditation of blood banks along with establishment of regional testing centres could pave the way to blood safety. National Aids Control Organisation (NACO and National Blood Transfusion Council (NBTC deserve a more proactive role in the licensing process. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA needs to clarify that procedures or tests meant for enhancement of blood safety are not illegal.

  9. Temperature Inversions and Permafrost Distribution in a Mountain Valley: Preliminary Results From Wolf Creek, Yukon Territory, Canada

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lewkowicz, A. G.; Smith, K. M.

    2004-12-01

    The BTS (Basal Temperature of Snow) method to predict permafrost probability in mountain basins uses elevation as an easily available and spatially distributed independent variable. The elevation coefficient in the BTS regression model is, in effect, a substitute for ground temperature lapse rates. Previous work in Wolf Creek (60° 8'N 135° W), a mountain basin near Whitehorse, has shown that the model breaks down in a mid-elevation valley (1250 m asl) where actual permafrost probability is roughly twice that predicted by the model (60% vs. 20-30%). The existence of a double tree-line at the site suggested that air temperature inversions might be the cause of this inaccuracy (Lewkowicz and Ednie, 2004). This paper reports on a first year (08/2003-08/2004) of hourly air and ground temperature data collected along an altitudinal transect within the valley in upper Wolf Creek. Measurements were made at sites located 4, 8, 22, 82 and 162 m above the valley floor. Air temperature inversions between the lowest and highest measurement points occurred 42% of the time and in all months, but were most frequent and intense in winter (>60% of December and January) and least frequent in September (snow cover. In many cases, however, air temperature inversions are not duplicated in the ground temperature record. Nevertheless, the annual altitudinal ground temperature gradient is much lower than would be expected from a standard atmospheric lapse rate, suggesting that the inversions do have an important impact on permafrost distribution at this site. More generally, therefore, it appears probable that any reduction in inversion frequency resulting from a more vigorous atmospheric circulation in the context of future climate change, would have a significant effect on permafrost distribution in mountain basins.

  10. Occurrence and removal of benzotriazoles and ultraviolet filters in a municipal wastewater treatment plant

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu Yousheng; Ying Guangguo; Shareef, Ali; Kookana, Rai S.

    2012-01-01

    We investigated the occurrence and removal of four benzotriazoles (BTs) (benzotriazole: BT; 5-methyl-benzotriazole: 5-TTri; 5-chloro-benzotriazole: CBT; 5,6-dimethyl-benzotriazole: XTri) and six UV filters (benzophenone-3: BP-3; 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor: 4-MBC; octyl 4-methoxycinnamate: OMC; 2-(3-t-butyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-5-chloro benzotriazole: UV-326; 2-(2′-Hydroxy-5′-octylphenyl)-benzotriazole: UV-329; octocrylene: OC) in a full scale municipal wastewater treatment in South Australia. BT, 5-TTri and BP-3 were found as the dominant compounds detected in the wastewater samples with average concentrations up to 5706 ± 928 ng/L, 6758 ± 1438 ng/L and 2086 ± 1027 ng/L in influent, and up to 2439 ± 233 ng/L, 610 ± 237 ng/L and 153 ± 121 ng/L in effluent, respectively. In the biosolid, 4-MBC and OC were found with the highest concentrations of 962 ± 135 ng/g and 465 ± 65 ng/g, respectively. Sorption onto sludge played a dominant role in the removal for UV filters, especially for 4-MBC, UV-326 and OC, which accounted for 54%–92% of influent loads, while biological degradation played a significant role for the other compounds. Highlights: ► Selected benzotriazoles (BTs) and UV filters were removed at various rates in a full scale WWTP. ► High aqueous phase removals were achieved for UV filters, and low to moderate removals for benzotriazoles. ► Sorption played a dominant role in elimination of UV filters, while degradation is the main factor for the others. - Various removal rates were achieved for benzotriazoles and UV filters by sorption and degradation processes in different stages of WWTPs.

  11. Comparative studies of the ITU-T prediction model for radiofrequency radiation emission and real time measurements at some selected mobile base transceiver stations in Accra, Ghana

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Obeng, S. O

    2014-07-01

    Recent developments in the electronics industry have led to the widespread use of radiofrequency (RF) devices in various areas including telecommunications. The increasing numbers of mobile base station (BTS) as well as their proximity to residential areas have been accompanied by public health concerns due to the radiation exposure. The main objective of this research was to compare and modify the ITU- T predictive model for radiofrequency radiation emission for BTS with measured data at some selected cell sites in Accra, Ghana. Theoretical and experimental assessment of radiofrequency exposures due to mobile base station antennas have been analysed. The maximum and minimum average power density measured from individual base station in the town was 1. 86µW/m2 and 0.00961µW/m2 respectively. The ITU-T Predictive model power density ranged between 6.40mW/m 2 and 0.344W/m 2 . Results obtained showed a variation between measured power density levels and the ITU-T predictive model. The ITU-T model power density levels decrease with increase in radial distance while real time measurements do not due to fluctuations during measurement. The ITU-T model overestimated the power density levels by a factor l0 5 as compared to real time measurements. The ITU-T model was modified to reduce the level of overestimation. The result showed that radiation intensity varies from one base station to another even at the same distance. Occupational exposure quotient ranged between 5.43E-10 and 1.89E-08 whilst general public exposure quotient ranged between 2.72E-09 and 9.44E-08. From the results, it shows that the RF exposure levels in Accra from these mobile phone base station antennas are below the permitted RF exposure limit to the general public recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. (au)

  12. Uncertainty Evaluations of the CRCS In-orbit Field Radiometric Calibration Methods for Thermal Infrared Channels of FENGYUN Meteorological Satellites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Y.; Rong, Z.; Min, M.; Hao, X.; Yang, H.

    2017-12-01

    Meteorological satellites have become an irreplaceable weather and ocean-observing tool in China. These satellites are used to monitor natural disasters and improve the efficiency of many sectors of Chinese national economy. It is impossible to ignore the space-derived data in the fields of meteorology, hydrology, and agriculture, as well as disaster monitoring in China, a large agricultural country. For this reason, China is making a sustained effort to build and enhance its meteorological observing system and application system. The first Chinese polar-orbiting weather satellite was launched in 1988. Since then China has launched 14 meteorological satellites, 7 of which are sun synchronous and 7 of which are geostationary satellites; China will continue its two types of meteorological satellite programs. In order to achieve the in-orbit absolute radiometric calibration of the operational meteorological satellites' thermal infrared channels, China radiometric calibration sites (CRCS) established a set of in-orbit field absolute radiometric calibration methods (FCM) for thermal infrared channels (TIR) and the uncertainty of this method was evaluated and analyzed based on TERRA/AQUA MODIS observations. Comparisons between the MODIS at pupil brightness temperatures (BTs) and the simulated BTs at the top of atmosphere using radiative transfer model (RTM) based on field measurements showed that the accuracy of the current in-orbit field absolute radiometric calibration methods was better than 1.00K (@300K, K=1) in thermal infrared channels. Therefore, the current CRCS field calibration method for TIR channels applied to Chinese metrological satellites was with favorable calibration accuracy: for 10.5-11.5µm channel was better than 0.75K (@300K, K=1) and for 11.5-12.5µm channel was better than 0.85K (@300K, K=1).

  13. 1D-Var temperature retrievals from microwave radiometer and convective scale model

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pauline Martinet

    2015-12-01

    Full Text Available This paper studies the potential of ground-based microwave radiometers (MWR for providing accurate temperature retrievals by combining convective scale numerical models and brightness temperatures (BTs. A one-dimensional variational (1D-Var retrieval technique has been tested to optimally combine MWR and 3-h forecasts from the French convective scale model AROME. A microwave profiler HATPRO (Humidity and Temperature PROfiler was operated during 6 months at the meteorological station of Bordeaux (Météo France. MWR BTs were monitored against simulations from the Atmospheric Radiative Transfer Simulator 2 radiative transfer model. An overall good agreement was found between observations and simulations for opaque V-band channels but large errors were observed for channels the most affected by liquid water and water vapour emissions (51.26 and 52.28 GHz. 1D-Var temperature retrievals are performed in clear-sky and cloudy conditions using a screening procedure based on cloud base height retrieval from ceilometer observations, infrared radiometer temperature and liquid water path derived from the MWR observations. The 1D-Var retrievals were found to improve the AROME forecasts up to 2 km with a maximum gain of approximately 50 % in root-mean-square-errors (RMSE below 500 m. They were also found to outperform neural network retrievals. A static bias correction was proposed to account for systematic instrumental errors. This correction was found to have a negligible impact on the 1D-Var retrievals. The use of low elevation angles improves the retrievals up to 12 % in RMSE in cloudy-sky in the first layers. The present implementation achieved a RMSE with respect to radiosondes within 1 K in clear-sky and 1.3 K in cloudy-sky conditions for temperature.

  14. Self-expandable metal stents for relieving malignant colorectal obstruction: short-term safety and efficacy within 30 days of stent procedure in 447 patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Meisner, Søren; González-Huix, Ferran; Vandervoort, Jo G; Goldberg, Paul; Casellas, Juan A; Roncero, Oscar; Grund, Karl E; Alvarez, Alberto; García-Cano, Jesús; Vázquez-Astray, Enrique; Jiménez-Pérez, Javier

    2011-10-01

    The self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) can alleviate malignant colonic obstruction and avoid emergency decompressive surgery. To document performance, safety, and effectiveness of colorectal stents used per local standards of practice in patients with malignant large-bowel obstruction to avoid palliative stoma surgery in incurable patients (PAL) and facilitate bowel decompression as a bridge to surgery for curable patients (BTS). Prospective clinical cohort study. Two global registries with 39 academic and community centers. This study involved 447 patients with malignant colonic obstruction who received stents (255 PAL, 182 BTS, 10 no indication specified). Colorectal through-the-scope SEMS placement. The primary endpoint was clinical success at 30 days, defined as the patient's ability to maintain bowel function without adverse events related to the procedure or stent. Secondary endpoints were procedural success, defined as successful stent placement in the correct position, symptoms of persistent or recurrent colonic obstruction, and complications. The procedural success rate was 94.8% (439/463), and the clinical success rates were 90.5% (313/346) as assessed on a per protocol basis and 71.6% (313/437) as assessed on an intent-to-treat basis. Complications included 15 (3.9%) perforations, 3 resulting in death, 7 (1.8%) migrations, 7 (1.8%) cases of pain, and 2 (0.5%) cases of bleeding. No control group. No primary endpoint analysis data for 25% of patients. This largest multicenter, prospective study of colonic SEMS placement demonstrates that colonic SEMSs are safe and highly effective for the short-term treatment of malignant colorectal obstruction, allowing most curable patients to have 1-step resection without stoma and providing most incurable patients minimally invasive palliation instead of surgery. The risk of complications, including perforation, was low. Copyright © 2011 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All

  15. Energy Savings in Cellular Networks Based on Space-Time Structure of Traffic Loads

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Jingbo; Wang, Yue; Yuan, Jian; Shan, Xiuming

    Since most of energy consumed by the telecommunication infrastructure is due to the Base Transceiver Station (BTS), switching off BTSs when traffic load is low has been recognized as an effective way of saving energy. In this letter, an energy saving scheme is proposed to minimize the number of active BTSs based on the space-time structure of traffic loads as determined by principal component analysis. Compared to existing methods, our approach models traffic loads more accurately, and has a much smaller input size. As it is implemented in an off-line manner, our scheme also avoids excessive communications and computing overheads. Simulation results show that the proposed method has a comparable performance in energy savings.

  16. Glycolysis in contracting rat skeletal muscle is controlled by factors related to energy state

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Ørtenblad, Niels; Macdonald, Will A; Sahlin, Kent

    2009-01-01

    The control of glycolysis in contracting muscle is not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to examine whether activation of glycolysis is mediated by factors related to the energy state or by a direct effect of Ca2+ on the regulating enzymes. Extensor digitorum longus muscles from...... and 58% of those in Con respectively. Glycolytic rate in BTS was only 51% of that in Con but the relative contribution of ATP derived from PCr (phosphocreatine) and glycolysis and the relation between muscle contents of PCr and Lac (lactate) were not different. Prolonged cyanide incubation of quiescent...... contribution of energy delivered from PCr and glycolysis during both conditions suggests that the glycolytic rate is controlled by factors related to energy state....

  17. THE STRATEGIC PLANNING OF IS/IT AT PT. LINTAS GROUP

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hendra Maya Topani

    2011-10-01

    Full Text Available The purpose of this study is to find the requirement of Information Systems and Information Technology (IS/IT in the development of the construction of Base Transceiver Station tower (BTS. The methodology that is used is the method of Ward and Peppard. The relevant data were extracted from interviews with the management. Questionnaires were distributed to 16 respondents, and observation was made accordingly. The results of this study are in the form of the application portfolio recommendation, proposal of the IT Division enhancement and the action time of IS/IT. The planning of IS/IT is as a guiding framework for the development of future changes at PT. Lintas Group.Keywords: Information System, Technology Information, application portfolio, telecommunication.

  18. Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Sociales, 7(2, (July-December, 2016

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sonia Natalia Cogollo Ospina

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Sociales Vol. 7 No. 2 (julio-diciembre, 2016 Presentación Sonia Natalia Cogollo Ospina Editorial Latinoamérica, un camino hacia la prevención del deterioro cognitivo Ricardo F. Allegri Educación emocional y satisfacción con la vida percibida en un grupo de adultos mayores Adriana del Pilar Perugache Rodríguez, Ana Lucía Caicedo Leiton, Karen Alexandra Barón Guerrero, Dayana Stephany Tenganan Álvarez La evaluación de la competencia digital en la docencia universitaria: el caso de los grados de empresariales y económicas María Rosa Fernández Sánchez, Marcelo Sánchez-Oro Sánchez, Rafael Robina Ramírez Reflexividad, mediaciones y educación. El sujeto y su interacción con la pantalla audiovisual Juan David Zabala Sandoval  La educación intra e intercultural como enfoque pedagógico “propio” Alcibíades Miguel López Hernández y Edith María Cuello Daza  Modelos democráticos con pretensiones emancipatorias: una invitación a transitar de lo racional a lo razonable Mariluz Nova Laverde  Acciones colectivas como práctica de memoria, realizadas por una organización de víctimas en Medellín (Colombia Jolyn Elena Castrillón Baquero, Juan David Villa Gómez, Andrés Felipe Marín Cortés  Embarazo juvenil en el Departamento del Cesar: ¿y dónde está el padre? Mario Alejandro Duarte Orozco Un acercamiento a Gramsci: la hegemonía y la reproducción de una visión del mundo Mauricio Puentes Cala, Ivonne Suárez Pinzón

  19. Profile of atacicept and its potential in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Cogollo E

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Estafania Cogollo,1,* Marta Amaral Silva,2,* David Isenberg3 1Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Principe de Asturias, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, Spain; 2Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Distrital da Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Portugal; 3Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, UK *These authors are regarded as equal first authors Abstract: The importance of B cell activating factors in the generation of autoantibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE is now recognized. The two key factors, known as BAFF and APRIL, produced by a variety of cells including monocytes, dendritic cells and T cells, also help to regulate B cell maturation, function and survival. Biologic agents that block these factors have now been developed and tried out in large scale clinical trials in SLE patients. Benlysta which blocks BAFF has met some of its end points in clinical trials and is approved for use in patients with skin and joint disease who have failed conventional drugs. In contrast, clinical trials using atacicept which blocks both BAFF and APRIL have been more challenging to interpret. An early study in lupus nephritis was, mistakenly, abandoned due to serious infections thought to be linked to the biologic when in fact the dramatic fall in the immunoglobulin levels took place when the patients were given mycophenolate, prior to the introduction of the atacicept. Likewise the higher dose arm (150 mgm of a flare prevention study was terminated prematurely when 2 deaths occurred. However, the mortality rate in this study was identical to that seen in the Benlysta studies and a post hoc analysis found a highly significant benefit for the 150mgm arm compared to the lower dose (75 mgm and placebo arms. Other trials with both Benlysta and atacicept are on-going. Keywords: cytokines, lupus nephritis, BLyS, APRIL

  20. Environmental degradation of Opalinus Clay with cyclic variations in relative humidity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wild, Katrin; Walter, Patric; Madonna, Claudio; Amann, Florian

    2016-04-01

    Clay shales are considered as favorable host rocks for nuclear waste repositories due to their low permeability, high sorption capacity and the potential for self-sealing. However, the favorable characteristics of the rock mass may change during tunnel excavation. Excavation is accompanied by stress redistribution and the development of an excavation damage zone. Furthermore, unloading and exposure to atmospheric conditions with a lower relative humidity (RH) causes desaturation of the rock mass close to the tunnel. This leads to shrinkage and the formation of desiccation cracks. During the open drift stage, seasonal atmospheric changes, especially RH variations, may alter the rock mass and influence the long-term crack evolution. This contribution discusses the influence of RH variation on the mechanical behavior of OPA. A series of specimens were exposed to short-term and long-term, stepwise cyclic RH variations between about 60 and 95% at constant temperature. Strains were measured using strain gauges to monitor the volumetric response during RH cycles. After each applied RH cycle, Brazilian tensile strength (BTS) tests were performed to identify whether there is a change in tensile strength due to environmental damage caused by the change in RH. Swelling and shrinkage of the specimens accompanied by irreversible volumetric expansion was observed as a consequence of the exposure to RH cycles. However, the irreversible strain was limited to the direction normal to bedding suggesting that internal damage is restricted along the bedding planes. No significant effect of cyclic RH variations on the BTS of the specimens was observed. The strength parallel to bedding remained constant over several cycles while the strength normal to bedding shows a slightly decreasing trend after 2 cycles. Furthermore, the water retention characteristics of the specimens were not altered significantly during stepwise RH cycling as the evolution of the water content was reversible