gebhart/patrepeval huggingface dataset:
NS-100 Membranes for Reverse Osmosis Applications (1975)

The structure of the new NS-100 nonpolysaccharide reverse osmosis membranes and additional separation properties relating to removal of impurities from water has been investigated. Infrared spectrophotometric evidence has indicated that the urea linkages are formed before the heat cure step. The heat curing process was found to cross-link the polymer further by elimination of ammonia and formation of additional secondary and tertiary amine linkages. Long-term tests under seawater conditions have indicated water fluxes of 18 gfd at 99.5 percent salt rejection. The NS-100 membranes have exhibited high rejections toward organic compounds; for example, phenol is rejected up to 90 percent. All experimental data indicate that the NS-100 membranes are more resistant to varying environments with higher reverse osmosis performance than any current commercial membrane.
Design of a microscopic electrical impedance tomography system using two current injections (2011)

We describe a novel design of a microscopic electrical impedance tomography (micro-EIT) system for long-term noninvasive monitoring of cell or tissue cultures. The core of the micro-EIT system is a sample container including two pairs of current-injection electrodes and 360 voltage-sensing electrodes. In designing the container, we took advantage of a hexagonal structure with fixed dimensions and electrode configuration. This eliminated technical difficulties related to the unknown irregular boundary geometry of an imaging object in conventional medical EIT. Attaching a pair of large current-injection electrodes fully covering the left and right sides of the hexagonal container, we generated uniform parallel current density inside the container filled with saline. The 360 voltage-sensing electrodes were placed on the front, bottom and back sides of the hexagonal container in three sets of 8 × 15 arrays with equal gaps between them. We measured voltage differences between all neighboring pairs along the direction of the parallel current pathway. For the homogeneous container, all measured voltages must be the same since the voltage changes linearly along that direction. Any anomaly in the container perturbed the current pathways and therefore equipotential lines to produce different differential voltage data. For conductivity image reconstructions, we adopted a lately developed image reconstruction algorithm for this electrode configuration to first produce projected conductivity images on the front, bottom and back sides. Using a backprojection method, we reconstructed three-dimensional conductivity images from those projection images. To improve the image quality and also to meet the mathematical requirement on the uniqueness of a reconstructed image, we used a second pair of thin and long current-injection electrodes located at the middle of the front and back sides. This paper describes the design and construction of such a micro-EIT system with experimental results. Proposing the novel micro-EIT system design, we suggest future studies of miniaturizing the sample container for true microscopic conductivity imaging of cell or tissue cultures.
A Kalman filter-based approach for adaptive restoration of in-vehicle camera foggy images (2008)

In this paper, a Kalman filter-based approach for adaptive restoration of video images acquired by an in-vehicle camera in foggy conditions is proposed. In order to realize Kalman filter-based restoration, the proposed method regards the intensities in each frame as elements of the state variable of the Kalman filter and designs the following two models for restoration of foggy images. The first one is an observation model, which represents a fog deterioration model. The second one is a non-linear state transition model, which represents the target frame in the original video image from its previous frame based on motion vectors. By utilizing the observation and state transition models, the correlation between successive frames can be effectively utilized for restoration. Further, the proposed method introduces a new estimation scheme of the parameter, which determines the deterioration characteristic in foggy conditions, into the Kalman filter algorithm. Consequently, since automatic determination of the fog deterioration model, which specifies the observation model, from only the foggy images is realized, the accurate restoration can be achieved. Experimental results show that the proposed method has better performance than that of the traditional method based on the fog deterioration model.
Real-time implementation of a dual-mode ultrasound array system: In vivo results (2012)

Background, Motivation and Objective: We have previously presented a method of ultrasound image guidance known as a dual-mode ultrasound array (DMUA). A DMUA uses the same elements for imaging and therapy creating an inherent registration between the two modalities and allowing for precise HIFU targeting. Previous results have demonstrated the abilities of DMUAs on phantoms and in vitro tissues with offline data processing, here we present in vivo results from a fully functional, real-time implementation of a DMUA. Statement of Contribution/Methods: This system utilizes high-performance FPGAs and GPUs to implement a novel ultrasound-guided focused ultrasound (USgFUS) platform. This platform uses 33 frames per second synthetic aperture (SA) imaging to provide guidance for the selection of therapeutic targets. Single transmit focus (STF) imaging is interleaved with therapy at 1000 frame per second to provide real-time feedback on the treatment progress. The array contains a central opening to allow the coaxial alignment of a diagnostic transducer for image fusion between the diagnostic and DMUA imaging modalities. Results: A 3.5 MHz, 32 element DMUA was used for HIFU treatments in swine and rat animal models. The SA imaging allowed for the recognition of tissue structure and the tracking of natural tissue motion. STF imaging during therapy allowed for the detection of HIFU induced echogenic changes. The DMUA images allowed for the targeted placement of HIFU shots with sub-millimeter and millisecond spatial and temporal resolutions, respectively. Histological examinations have confirmed thermal lesion formation within the wall of the vessel. Discussion and Conclusions: Advances in computing power and array technology have enabled the development of a DMUA as a real-time USgFUS platform. These results represent the first in vivo demonstration of a DMUAs imaging and therapeutic capability. The system demonstrates the ability to image anatomical structures and deliver HIFU therapy safely and efficaciously.
Locked-wrap fuel rod. [LMFBR] (1977)

A method for spacing fast reactor fuel rods using a wire wrapper improved by orienting the wire-wrapped fuel rods in a unique manner which introduces desirable performance characteristics not attainable by previous wire-wrapped designs is described. Use of this method in a liquid metal fast breeder reactor results in: (a) improved mechanical performance, (b) improved rod-to-rod contact, (c) reduced steel volume, and (d) improved thermal-hydraulic performance. The method produces a ''locked wrap'' design which tends to lock the rods together at each of the wire cluster locations. 1 claim, 12 figures.
Development of near-infrared fluorophores for use as nerve-specific contrast agents for fluorescence guided surgery (2021)

Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) to aid in the precise visualization of vital nerve structures in real-time intraoperatively could greatly improve patient outcomes. We took a medicinal chemistry approach that facilitated the design of our first-in-class NIR nerve-binding small molecule fluorophore libraries with excitation and emission profiles compatible with the “700-” and “800-” nm fluorescence imaging channels in the clinical grade FGS systems. Molecular engineering of the lead candidates allowed for the development of water-soluble nerve-specific contrast agents with improved safety profile that has great potential for clinical translation in the near future.
Basics of Camera-Based Gaze Tracking (2012)

Most of the studies presented in this book use camera-based gaze trackers, used to monitor where the user is looking on screen or in the 3D environment. While a gaze tracker may resemble a blackbox device that miraculously determines the point of gaze, it actually consists of several hardware and software components with specific purposes. This chapter gives a brief introduction to the typical setup, composition and operating principles of eye and gaze tracking and it provides a simplified overview of camera-based gaze trackers that will be of use to all readers of this book.
Toward Long-Distance Subdiffraction Imaging Using Coherent Camera Arrays (2016)

In this work, we propose using camera arrays coupled with coherent illumination as an effective method of improving spatial resolution in long distance images by a factor often and beyond. Recent advances in ptychography have demonstrated that one can image beyond the diffraction limit of the objective lens in a microscope. We demonstrate a similar imaging system to image beyond the diffraction limit in long range imaging. We emulate a camera array with a single camera attached to an XY translation stage. We show that an appropriate phase retrieval based reconstruction algorithm can be used to effectively recover the lost high resolution details from the multiple low resolution acquired images. We analyze the effects of noise, required degree of image overlap, and the effect of increasing synthetic aperture size on the reconstructed image quality. We show that coherent camera arrays have the potential to greatly improve imaging performance. Our simulations show resolution gains of 10× and more are achievable. Furthermore, experimental results from our proof-of-concept systems show resolution gains of 4 × -7× for real scenes. All experimental data and code is made publicly available on the project webpage. Finally, we introduce and analyze in simulation a new strategy to capture macroscopic Fourier Ptychography images in a single snapshot, albeit using a camera array.
Convolution reconstruction algorithm for multi-slice helical CT (2003)

One of the most recent technological advancements in computed tomography (CT) is the introduction of multi-slice CT (MSCT). The state-of-the-art MSCT contains 16 detector rows and is capable of acquiring 16 projections simultaneously. In this paper, we propose a reconstruction algorithm that makes use of nontraditional reconstruction planes and convolution weighting. To minimize the impact of interpolation on slice-sensitivity-profile (SSP), conjugate samples are used for the projection interpolation. We use multiple convex planes as teh region of construction. This allows the generated weighting function to be smooth and differentiable. In addition, we make use of the fact that projections collected from a subset of detector rows are sufficient to perform a complete reconstruction. A convolution function is applied to the weighting function of each subset to minimize the impact of cone beam effects. The convolution function is chosen so that optimal balance is achieved between image artifact, slice-sensitivity-profile (SSP), and noise. Extensive phantom and clinical studies have been conducted to validate our approach. Our study indicates that compared to other row-interpolation based reconstruction algorithms, a 30% SSP improvement can be achieved with the proposed approach. In addition, image artifact suppression achieved with the proposed approach is on par or slightly better than the existing reconstruction algorithms. Extensive clinical studies have shown that the 16-slice scanner in conjugation with this algorithm produces nearly isotropic spatial resolution and allows much improved diagnostic image quality.
High Frequency of Mutations of the <i>PIK3CA</i> Gene in Human Cancers (2004)

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Inducer Bacteria, Unique Signal Peptides, and Low-Nutrient Media Stimulate in Vitro Bacteriocin Production by Lactobacillus Spp. and Enterococcus Spp. Strains (2010)

Bacteriocins (BCN) are antimicrobial peptides that provide potential to control bacterial infections in a variety of applications. We previously reported on three class IIa BCN molecules produced by Lactobacillus salivarius B-30514 (OR-7), Enterococcus faecium B-30746 (E 50-52), and Enterococcus durans/faecium/hirae B-30745 (E-760). These BCN are notably effective against a wide array of pathogenic bacteria. To commercially apply such BCN, adequate quantities must be produced and harvested. We determined that a combination of host producer synthesized signal peptides (SP) in the presence of both producer and inducer bacteria grown in a dilute fermentation medium enabled marked increases in the synthesis of BCN. These SP contained 24-30 amino acid residues with sizes ranging from 2095 to 3065 Da having the unique terminal carboxyl sequence of VKGLT. The inducer bacterial isolates used were Lactobacillus acidophilus B-30510 and Lactobacillus crispatus B-30884. We used a nutrient-limited medium of 10% brucella broth (containing 0.01% glucose) to enhance BCN production. Using the combination of these above three parameters enabled us to reproducibly harvest at least 200 mg of BCN/L of the spent fermentation broth. This information can be used to assist in the production of BCN.
Charge pumping with finger capacitance for body sensor energy harvesting (2017)

Sensors are becoming ubiquitous and increasingly integrated with and on the human body; powering such "body network" devices remains an outstanding problem. In this paper, we demonstrate a touch interrogation powered energy harvesting system. This system transforms the kinetic energy of a human finger to electric energy, with each tap producing approximately 1 nJ of energy at a storage capacitor. As is well known for touch display devices, the proximity of a finger can alter the effective value of small capacitances; we demonstrate that these capacitance changes can drive a current which is rectified to charge a capacitor. As a demonstration, an untethered circuit charged this way can deliver enough instantaneous power to light a red LED every ~ 10 seconds. This technology illustrates the ability to communicate with and operate low-power sensors with motions already used for interfacing to devices.
Valsartan <scp>nano‐filaments</scp> alter mitochondrial energetics and promote faster healing in diabetic rat wounds (2021)

Chronic wounds are a common and debilitating condition associated with aging populations that impact more than 6.5 million patients in the United States. We have previously demonstrated the efficacy of daily topical 1% valsartan in treating wounds in diabetic mouse and pig models. Despite these promising results, there remains a need to develop an extended-release formulation that would reduce patient burden by decreasing the frequency of daily applications. Here, we used nanotechnology to self-assemble valsartan amphiphiles into a filamentous structure (val-filaments) that would serve as a scaffold in wound beds and allow for steady, localised and tunable release of valsartan amphiphiles over 24 days. Two topical treatments of this peptide-based hydrogel on full-thickness wounds in Zucker Diabetic Fatty rats resulted in faster rates of wound closure. By day 23, all val-filament treated wounds were completely closed, as compared to one wound closed in the placebo group. Mechanistically, we observed enrichment of proteins involved in cell adhesion and energetics pathways, downregulation of Tgf-β signalling pathway mediators (pSmad2, pSmad3 and Smad4) and increased mitochondrial metabolic pathway intermediates. This study demonstrates the successful synthesis of a sustained-release valsartan filament hydrogel, its impact on mitochondrial energetics and efficacy in treating diabetic wounds.
Zinc Finger Proteins Designed To Specifically Target Duck Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Inhibit Viral Transcription in Tissue Culture (2008)

Duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) is a model virus for human hepatitis B virus (HBV), which infects approximately 360 million individuals worldwide. Nucleoside analogs can decrease virus production by inhibiting the viral polymerase; however, complete clearance by these drugs is not common because of the persistence of the HBV episome. HBV DNA is present in the nucleus as a covalently closed circular (cccDNA) form, where it drives viral transcription and progeny virus production. cccDNA is not the direct target of antiviral nucleoside analogs and is the source of HBV reemergence when antiviral therapy is stopped. To target cccDNA, six different zinc finger proteins (ZFP) were designed to bind DNA sequences in the DHBV enhancer region. After the binding kinetics were assessed by using electrophoretic mobility shift assays and surface plasmon resonance, two candidates with dissociation constants of 12.3 and 40.2 nM were focused on for further study. The ZFPs were cloned into a eukaryotic expression vector and cotransfected into longhorn male hepatoma cells with the plasmid pDHBV1.3, which replicates the DHBV life cycle. In the presence of each ZFP, viral RNA was significantly reduced, and protein levels were dramatically decreased. As a result, intracellular viral particle production was also significantly decreased. In summary, designed ZFPs are able to bind to the DHBV enhancer and interfere with viral transcription, resulting in decreased production of viral products and progeny virus genomes.
Preparation and Optimization of a Series of 3-Carboxamido-5-phenacylaminopyrazole Bradykinin B1 Receptor Antagonists (2007)

The B1 receptor is an attractive target for the treatment of pain and inflammation. A series of 3-carboxamido-5-phenacylamino pyrazole B1 receptor antagonists are described that exhibit good potency against B1 and high selectivity over B2. Initially, N-unsubstituted pyrazoles were studied, but these compounds suffered from extensive glucuronidation in primates. This difficulty could be surmounted by the use of N-substituted pyrazoles. Optimization efforts culminated in compound 41, which has high receptor potency and metabolic stability.
Detection of <i>DDR2</i> mutations in malignant melanoma: A potentially targetable feature of advanced stage disease. (2013)

9100 Background: The discoidin domain receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (DDR2) gene is mutated in a subset of non-small cell carcinoma of the lung. In lung cancer, targeting of DDR2 with the inhibitor dasatinib has been shown to inhibit DDR2-mutated cell line growth. Responses to dasatinib in DDR2-mutated lung tumors are currently being investigated in clinical trials. We investigated whether somatic DDR2 mutations also occur in melanomas using a set of different clinical subtypes bearing a variety of melanoma-associated molecular alterations. Methods: DNA was extracted from macrodissected FFPE sections of 168 melanomas and subjected to next-generation sequencing using a custom-designed 36-amplicon panel including the coding regions of DDR2 and exons 11 and 15 of BRAF. PCR products were prepared by Access Array, sequenced on the Ion Torrent PGM, and analyzed using Sequence Pilot software. All DDR2 mutations were confirmed by bidirectional Sanger sequencing. Relative expression analysis of the DDR2 gene was performed using RT-PCR on RNA extracted from FFPE sections, with levels normalized to ABL1 and GAPDH. Results: Heterozygous DDR2 point mutations were identified in 3.4% of BRAF-mutated melanoma (n=117) but not in any cases that lacked BRAF mutations (n = 51). All DDR2-mutated melanomas were advanced stage with lymph node and/or extensive soft tissue involvement and included both BRAF V600K and V600E cases. In contrast to the range of mutation sites reported in lung cancers, DDR2 mutations in melanoma (I488S, F574C, S667F and L701F) were at highly evolutionarily conserved positions in the kinase domain. The mutations are expected to be disruptive and may therefore modulate kinase activity. DDR2 transcripts were expressed in tumor cells in all mutated cases. Conclusions: DDR2 mutations in advanced stage melanoma may provide a targetable genetic feature for tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as dasatinib. The invariant association of DDR2 mutation with activating BRAF mutations suggests synergy in transformation between these distinct signaling pathways.
Test Stimulus Compression Based on Broadcast Scan With One Single Input (2016)

In this paper, a novel test compression technique is proposed that can achieve very high test compression ratio with low area overhead and only one single test input. An inverter and a series of D flip-flops together with a configurable switch logic are inserted between the single input and the scan chains so as to convert the input patterns to the test data required by each scan chain. All scan chains are divided into some scan groups such that scan chains in the same group can share the same test data and the switch logic only needs to connect each group to an appropriate data provider. Hence the total area overhead is quite small. A novel algorithm is developed to determine the required test configurations and corresponding test patterns for 100% testable fault coverage. Experimental results show that on average this method can achieve data reduction factors of 23×, 124×, and 394× with 3.77%, 0.95%, and 0.03% area overhead for ISCAS'89, IWLS'05 OpenCores, and IWLS'05 Gaisler Research benchmark circuits, respectively. These results indicate that the reduction factor increases with the sizes of circuits; it even reaches 464× for a circuit containing 2.07 million gates with very small area overhead. As all test and control data can be provided by a single input, great reduction on test channel requirement is also achieved.
Paralleling power MOSFETs in their active region: Extended range of passively forced current sharing (1989)

A simple passive circuit that improves current balance in parallelled power MOSFETs that are not precisely matched and that are operated in their active region from a common gate drive are exhibited. A nonlinear circuit consisting of diodes and resistors generates the differential gate potential required to correct for unbalance while maintaining low losses over a range of current. Also application of a thin tape wound magnetic core to effect dynamic current balance is reviewed, and a simple theory is presented showing that for operation in the active region the branch currents tend to revert to their normal unbalanced values even if the core is not driven into saturation. Results of several comparative experiments are given.