Abstract:
The present application discloses a previously unknown function of CD24 expressed on a subset of dendritic cells. The invention encompasses regulating CD24 on these cells to regulate erythropoiesis, induce EPO production and levels, increase RBC levels, and to treat, for example, stress-mediated erythropoiesis. The compositions and methods of the invention are useful, for example, in treating anemia.
Abstract:
Apparatus and techniques can include using one or more of a portable or fixed optical system to obtain images of a desired anatomical target, such as the fundus region of a human eye. The optical system can include one or more of a laser-based focusing target, a laser-based fixation target, or a removable or adjustable alignment assembly. Such an alignment assembly can provide or allow user alignment based on using anatomical landmarks other than the fundus being imaged. One or more of the apparatus or techniques can be implemented in an optical assembly included as a portion hand-held fundus camera, such as including or using a consumer or commercial digital camera to capture an image.
Abstract:
Time-varying hyperglycemic stresses are derived from actual ICU patients and applied to non-critically ill virtual patients, using any model of normal glucose-insulin physiology that fulfills certain requirements, in order to model and simulate stress hyperglycemia. Other aspects provide: 1) a methodology to perform sensitivity analyses of the parameters of ICU insulin infusion therapy protocols and to improve the protocols; and 2) a training system for clinicians about the course and management of stress hyperglycemia in the ICU or other facility.
Abstract:
A pulse train comprising chirped pulses of electromagnetic energy can be used to excite a sample, such as for spectroscopic analysis. The respective chirped pulses can include a frequency sweep across a first specified bandwidth during a respective chirped pulse duration, the respective chirped pulse duration establishing a first frequency-domain comb peak separation. A width of a frequency-domain comb peak can be established at least in part by a total duration of the pulse train, and a bandwidth of the first frequency-domain comb can be determined at least in part by the first specified bandwidth of the frequency sweep of the respective chirped pulses.
Abstract:
Method and System of lubricating at least one moving part with a medium. The medium includes a dissolved mixture of lubricant and compressed gas. The amount of lubricant and compressed gas may be controlled in forming the dissolved mixture in response to input conditions. A user and/or external factors may be used to determine the input conditions. In response to the input conditions the amount of lubricant and compressed gas is delivered to the moving part that is housed in a pressurized chamber. The properties of the dissolved mixture can be adjusted, whereby the properties may include, but are not limited to, the following: viscosity, temperature, and thermal conductivity. This adjustment to the gas may be accomplished, for example, by releasing gas from the pressurized chamber in an amount to adjust the properties. In a further approach, lubricant may be scavenged from the pressurized chamber by returning surplus lubricant to its original source or other designated location.
Abstract:
An ultrasonic transducer element can configured to generate ultrasonic energy directed into tissue of a subject and configured to receive a portion of the ultrasonic energy reflected by a target located within the tissue. The ultrasonic transducer can include a surface configured to provide or receive the ultrasonic energy, the surface including an area of greater than or equal to about 4λ2, or the ultrasonic transducer element can be included in an array having a spacing between at least two adjacent ultrasound elements of less than or equal to about ½λ, and the array comprising an aperture that is at least approximately symmetrical in two axes. A three-dimensional representation of one or more of a location, shape, or orientation of at least a portion of the target can be presented via the display.